The best of Peru and the Galapagos

Founded in 1535, in the days of the Conquest Lima used to be one of the wealthiest, mightiest cities in in South America. Its historic centre (UNESCO World Heritage Site) still boasts the beautiful Plaza Mayor, with the old palaces of politic and religious life. The soul of the city, however, has drifted to the modern towns of Miraflores and San Isidro, and to the lively sea town of Barranco.

Rising at an height of 3,400 m, Cuczo, once the capital of the Inca empire, was rebuilt by the Spaniards on the vestiges of its ancient palaces, using the remains of the Inca temples and edifices. Today, Cuzco is a lively, fascinating town. Even in the busy summer months, when the Sacred Valley literally swarms with tourists, it preserves its charm.

Aguas Calientes, auch bekannt als Machu Picchu Pueblo, ist eine kleine Stadt am Fuße der berühmten Ruinen von Machu Picchu im Herzen der peruanischen Anden. Sie ist der wichtigste Ausgangspunkt für alle, die die archäologische Stätte von Machu Picchu besuchen möchten. Die Stadt ist von üppigem Tropenwald umgeben und wird vom Fluss Urubamba durchflossen. Sie ist bekannt für ihre natürlichen heißen Quellen, daher auch ihr Name Aguas Calientes", was auf Spanisch heißes Wasser" bedeutet. Aguas Calientes ist eine lebendige und pulsierende Stadt mit einer Vielzahl von Restaurants, Cafés, Kunsthandwerksläden und lokalen Märkten, die eine Vielzahl von traditionellen Produkten und Souvenirs anbieten.

Characterized by a hot and humid climate, the port city of Guayaquil is enchanting. It is a true joy to stroll along its streets, where nature and architecture blend perfectly. Thanks to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, Guayaquil has been the gateway to the country for centuries, becoming the final destination for people from all over the world, making it the "Pearl of the Pacific", open and multicultural, as we know it today.

Santa Cruz is located in the middle of the archipelago and is the second largest island. It was colonized in 1920. After Isabela Island, Santa Cruz is home to the second largest population of giant tortoises (around 3000). The island is characterized by beautiful beaches and bays with sea lions, marine turtles, and seabirds. Inland, off the beaten path, you can explore its remote highlands and lush landscapes.

Isabela is the largest island in the Galapagos archipelago and the one with the most volcanic activity. It is for this reason that the landscape that characterizes it is formed by dark-colored rocks, in contrast to the crystal-clear waters that bathe its beaches.