Wednesday, January 28, 2015

Exotic Explorations Are Part Of Machu Picchu And Galapagos Combined Tours

By Janine Hughes


Exploring Ecuador and Peru on the same itinerary prompts lots of questions. These disparate places require specific transportation and guides. How you visit will depend on how you hope to experience your destinations.

These two popular and fascinating spots are often visited on machu picchu and galapagos combined tours. Both can be easily explored as part of one vacation. Because Machu Picchu requires becoming accustomed to very high elevations, many who have been there suggest seeing it first, and then relaxing in the Galapagos at the end of your trip. This is true even for the most fit travelers.

There are several ways to reach the Peru highlands. Most tourists arrive in Lima by plane. Once landed, they can be greeted by their tour guide and board the bus that will accompany them to their hotel and stay with them throughout their tour. Guides for this type of trip are well versed in the culture and history of the area, providing interesting lectures and discussion during travel times. Other travelers will choose to hike the Inca Trail or take a train to get to the highest points in the Andes. Remembering that Peru also has the fascinating Amazon, Lake Titicaca and Lima itself might help tourists to opt for additional side tours.

Quito is a common arrival point for air travelers to Ecuador. The country is small, but this capitol city offers exciting day visits to the Andes mountains, the Amazon forest or preserved colonial cities. As a gateway to the surrounding regions, this is a place for touring. You can depart on a cruise of Galapagos from here as well.

When Charles Darwin was inspired to create his theory of evolution, he did so at the Galapagos islands. A highlight of the National Park organization, naturalists guide visitors through them annually on structured walks. Park entry is closely limited to a few hours daily. Set trails must be followed, with no stepping away allowed. The future of all plant and animal life in the Tortoise Reserve in particular is a highly protected priority.

Overnight stays within the Galapagos system is very possible, with luxury camping and eco-tourism tenting the norm. Many seasoned visitors recommend taking a cruise ship whose itinerary specifically focuses on the islands rather than taking a day trip there. It all depends on personal preference.

Combination tours with diverse plans are available in appealing abundance. Booking is an easy matter of choosing price, length and your desired activities. Because you will be spending time in two countries, you will want to see as much as possible while there. Do make use of side excursions whenever possible, because the small addition in cost is well worth it once you have already made the effort to travel far to get there.

Enthusiastic and experienced guides are a must for a combined itinerary. Their knowledge of local customs and dialects will be crucial when you reach the higher elevations of the Andes and the scientific reserve in the Galapagos. Booking tours that include these leaders will enhance your enjoyment of each location.




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