Machu Picchu and Galapagos

This small-group tour begins in Cusco, formerly the centre of the Inca Empire, where stone walls meet colonial plazas and the local coffee scene makes a notable appearance. Walking past archaeological sites and craft workshops, the itinerary sets a measured pace before heading into the Sacred Valley to visit semi-circular Moray terraces and the stark salt pans of Maras.

After a night near Machu Picchu, the itinerary includes a morning on the mountain with its well-preserved temples and stone buildings, before a flight to Ecuador’s high-altitude capital Quito. The second half of the trip moves to the Galapagos Islands, where wildlife, including giant tortoises and blue-footed boobies, live under remarkably relaxed scrutiny. Time on Santa Cruz and Isabela Islands mixes nature reserves, volcanic hikes and short boat rides between islets, with opportunities for snorkelling alongside sea lions and rays.

The tour ends quietly with a final night near Quito, providing a contrast to the action-packed days and reminding travellers that a wellbeing pause often makes for the best travelling companion.

Isabela Island

These are the places the trip visits, in order. Explore Worldwide publishes the day-by-day itinerary on its own site.