22 days in Peru & Galapagos Islands Itinerary

In a country renowned for its pre-Columbian archeological sites, no Peru vacation would be complete without an adrenaline-inducing hike to Machu Picchu, World Heritage-listed symbol of the once-mighty Incan Empire. Aside from visiting these spectacular ruins set against the backdrop of photogenic mountain peaks, most holidays in Peru also include an exploration of the country's pretty cities, boasting well-preserved colonial architecture and a slew of modern buildings housing fine museums, galleries, shops, and restaurants. Ideal for active vacationers, Peru trips are also tailor-made for gourmands, as the country's eclectic cuisine blends tasty influences from Africa, Asia, and Europe.

Sacred Valley, once the heart of the Incan Empire, remains a favorite destination for tourists, not solely because of its proximity to Cuzco and Machu Picchu. The lush, fertile valley formed by the Urubamba river and surrounded by the imposing Peruvian Andes, contains numerous Incan ruins, sleepy villages, and scenic hiking trails. Besides an array of archaeological sites, attractions in Sacred Valley include picturesque colonial towns and their famous markets, as well as opportunities for trekking, rafting, and rock climbing.

Take a trip to Colca Canyon, the world's second deepest canyon, and witness its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and varied wildlife. With a long history of inhabitation, the Colca Valley features pre-Incan archaeological sites and ruins, stepped Incan terraces, and rustic colonial-era settlements. Roam among vicunas and cacti plants, see condors flying in close range, and witness the plunging canyon, in some places as deep as 3,300 m (11,000 ft). During your Colca Canyon vacation you can also visit Spanish settlements, relatively unchanged since colonial times, relax in the area's numerous hot springs, and purchase colorful arts and crafts made by the native Cabana and Collagua people.

Famous worldwide thanks to Charles Darwin's theory of evolution, the remote World Heritage-listed Galapagos Islands are situated in the Pacific Ocean and belong to Ecuador. On a tour of Galapagos Islands, you can witness the staggering amount of endemic wildlife the archipelago is noted for. Besides a couple of cities on the main islands, the landscape remains mostly pristine, as the guided tours follow strict rules and limit visitor numbers. Fascinating creatures, untouched nature, unrivalled snorkeling, scuba diving, and more await you on your Galapagos Islands trip.