Classic Peru & Galapagos 17 days

In the 15th century Peru was the heartland of the Inca Empire with Cusco as its capital. But with the arrival of the Spanish Conquistadors, the conquest of the region was completed in just a few short years. Today, Peru is rich in both Inca and Spanish colonial culture and we 'conquer' it in just a few days (minus the destruction and savagery). Lima, the sprawling capital, is built on the coastal desert strip nestled between the mountains and the sea and has many excellent museums and buildings dating from the Spanish colonial period. Just a short flight away, over towering, snow-capped Andean peaks, is Cusco, a living, cultural treasure house built on the foundations and walls of the old Inca capital. The city is centred on the Plaza de Armas and dominated by the great cathedral, with the narrow, cobblestone streets radiating outwards, packed with ancient houses, shops and some excellent restaurants. Overlooking the main town is the massive temple complex of Sacsayhuaman and further out in the Sacred Valley is the colourful market-trading town of Pisac. A highlight of any visit to Peru is the world renowned 4-day Inca Trail trek. Arriving at the Sun Gate, the spectacular entrance to Machu Picchu, is an amazing experience that we are sure to remember forever.

After flying from Quito to the Galapagos, we continue on to Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz. Here we see giant tortoise at the Charles Darwin Station. In the afternoon we board the 'San Jose' and cruise to Leon Domido and the large island of San Cristobel, where we visit the new interpretation centre and the rugged volcanic peaks of Cerro Brujo. Next stop is isolated Espanola Island, where we find waved albatrosses plus blue-footed and masked boobies, Galapagos hawks, Darwin finches, sea lions and marine iguanas. On the ‘Buccaneer’ hideaway island of Floreana we visit Post Office Bay and the island’s volcanic cone. It is a great spot for snorkelling, full of sea lions and colourful fish. We also encounter stately pink flamingos, as they wade in the shallow waters of inland lagoons. Arriving back at Santa Cruz Island we visit Black Turtle Cove and cruise amongst the mangroves, where the array of wildlife kicks into overdrive! The lagoons are a nursery for many sharks and rays. Amongst all this activity we also find time to relax sunbath, swim, snorkel and enjoy new friendships.