Ecuador and neighbouring Peru offer a multitude of fascinating places to discover, and more than ever, you can visit these places while staying in very comfortable lodgings and enjoying very tasty cuisine in beautiful establishments. We highlight some of those that we think will most awaken your sense of wonder and delight. Take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with what’s out there – and this is just the tip of the iceberg.
Machu Picchu and Cuzco
Just like Galapagos, Machu Picchu in neighbouring Peru is one of those globally recognized iconic places. Also a World Heritage site, it is located on the crest of an Andean mountain and accessible either via the famed Inca Trail, or by train.
Machu Picchu lies within the Sacred Valley of the Incas which in itself provides many opportunities to discover other fascinating archaeological sites and living local culture.
The usual hub for exploring this part of the world is the beautiful city of Cuzco (again, a World Heritage site), rich in colonial heritage, and reflective of the hybridized culture of the indigenous groups of the area and the descendants of the Spanish settlers. The city itself represents the center of indigenous Quechua culture in the Andes, and by merely walking the streets one sees the layers of history. Spanish colonial buildings erected directly atop Inca walls line the square, while the modern tourist nightlife flourishes in their midst. At 3,400 m above sea level, Cuzco is a full 1,000 m higher than Machu Picchu.
We have identified a unique boutique hotel in Cuzco which can serve as your cozy base from which you can explore the region. You might want to consider taking 5 days to zip over the Cuzco and Machu Picchu from Ecuador.