The experts in boutique travel To Peru and South America
As people start to ease back into travel, there are many questions and concerns that come to mind. At Inca Expert Travel, we are here to answer those questions and help bring your travel dreams to reality. The borders of Ecuador are now open to tourists, with certain measures in place to ensure the safety of everyone. Likewise, the awe-inspiring Galapagos Islands off Ecuador’s coast are accepting visitors as well, with various health protocols. Browse below for the most commonly asked questions about traveling while there is coronavirus in Ecuador.
Here at Inca Expert Travel, your health and comfort are always our top priority. We understand that coronavirus in Peru and around the world has brought a lot of confusion to travelers. Please rest assured that we are always here for you to bring peace of mind while preserving every bit of the wonder that your upcoming trip beholds. If you need to speak with someone directly, remember we are just a call or email away to bring clarity and support.
It is a general practice to tip in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. The local currency in Ecuador is the US dollar. So, if coming from the States, bring some smaller $1 and $5 bills along with you for tipping in Ecuador.
If you’re in search of magical Machu Picchu pictures, you’ve arrived at your destination. Known as one of the most mystical wonders of the world, Machu Picchu means Old Mountain in the local Quechua language. It is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The ruins are located just four hours from Cusco in the cloud forest of Aguas Calientes, and they are situated at 7,972 ft (2,430 m) above sea level. It is a destination beloved by both tourists and locals alike.
Peru is famous for being home to many exhilarating treks. Though not as popular as some of the other trails accessible from Cusco, the Ausangate trek is just as worthwhile. In fact, being less crowded with tourists is part of its charm. It guarantees travelers who venture on this remote journey a more unique experience. While you won’t come across Incan ruins, it makes up for it with breathtaking natural scenery and spiritual significance. Spot spectacular snow-capped peaks, gorgeous lakes, and wonderful wildlife, including herds of llamas and alpacas. The centerpiece of the trek is the mighty Apu Ausangate, one of the tallest mountains in Peru.
The Galapagos archipelago is an enchanting destination, attracting flocks of tourists from all over the planet. People travel to the Galapagos Islands to experience the unique flora and fauna, much of which is endemic. However, being an isolated destination that sits 563 miles (906 km) west of mainland Ecuador, it often remains a mystery to many travelers before they arrive. The Galapagos is made up of 127 islands, islets, and rocks and are inhabited by almost 9,000 different species. On top of that, there are many cruise ship itineraries, day tours, planes, and ferries that transverse the archipelago. With so many options to choose from, it is easy to feel daunted when planning how to visit Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. Read our full list of Galapagos travel tips and learn how to best visit the Galapagos Islands on your next trip.
Peru is considered a megadiverse country, as along with sixteen other countries, it contains more than 70% of the planet’s biodiversity. An impressive 1,869 bird species are found in Peru—the second-highest of any country in the world. Consequently, birding in Peru plays a vital role in its tourism sector. Three distinct birding routes (Southern, Central, and Northern) have been developed for Peru’s tourism.
Scrolling through these Galapagos Islands pictures, it’s easy to see how the archipelago so greatly inspired Darwin’s theory of evolution. The Galapagos Islands are world-renowned for their biodiversity and unique endemic species. Set against the striking backdrop of the volcanic islands, you’ll be rushing to get there and see them for yourself.
Positioned on the coast of Miraflores, the JW Marriott Lima is the hotel we recommend to travelers seeking comfortable quarters with 5-star amenities in the heart of Lima’s trendiest neighborhood.
Central in Lima, Peru is currently the Number 2 Restaurant in the World. Thanks to Inca Expert Travel’s collaboration with Virgilio Martinez (owner and head chef of Central), I was invited to dine there and experience it for myself. In short: my meal at Central was one of the best of my life. If you’re a “foodie” or simply love unique, extraordinary experiences, adding Central to your Peru itinerary is a must.
Salineras de Maras are an amazing patchwork of salt ponds that climb up the steep hillside. Since pre-Inca times, locals have been mining salt from the local, mineral-rich stream. Maras is a unique and picturesque addition to any trip to Peru. Learn more about the site’s history and how to visit below.
Peru has so many incredible hiking trails that it’s difficult to narrow the best treks in Peru to just ten. No matter where you are hiking in the Andes Mountains, it is sure to be rewarding. From the deepest canyons to Inca trails and the Cordillera Blanca. Azure lakes, mountain vistas, Inca ruins and remote Andean villages are sure to amaze. Here are the top ten multi-day Peru hikes.