ECUADOR & PERU
Meet the Operator
What’s the general appeal of Peru and Ecuador?
100-guest vessel will operate two seven-day itineraries with one focussing on birdlife and the other on wildlife. Sanctuary Retreats is operating
two Galapagos Islands photography expeditions this year. The special seven-night sailings onboard MV Eclipse – the fi rst in May and the second in August – are for photographers of all levels and are led by award-winning wildlife photographer and naturalist guide Jonathan Green.
Tourism talk
“Peru and Ecuador are both selling well and awareness has now gone
beyond their iconic attractions. Peru, and to a lesser extent Ecuador, are now well regarded in the luxury
Clockwise from top left: Amazonian wildlife; Canoe trip at Sacha Lodge, Ecuador; exploring the Andes by horseback; Collaguas people of the Peruvian highlands; Guayaquil, Ecuador
and backpacker sectors. Peru used to be the number one destination for many LATA tour operators, but Mexico (volume and accessibility), Brazil (in the World Cup and Olympic spotlight), Argentina (for sophistication) and Costa Rica (value for money) are now all in the picture as viable options. That said, Peru remains a good option for fi rst-timers to Latin America as it ticks most boxes in terms of diversity, accommodation options and safety. There is also signifi cant high-end investment going into Peru in the coming years. Brands such as Four Seasons, Ritz Carlton and Hyatt, to name a few, plus existing top-end brands like Orient Express, all help to promote the destination. The Galapagos is, of course, a destination in its own right and some people don’t even realise it is part of Ecuador. There is work to be done there, but David Attenborough’s recent TV series will have been a big help.” Chris Pickard, Chairman, Latin American Travel Association (LATA)
Where to book it AUDLEY TRAVEL - 01993 838 650
Its 14-day Incas and Islands itinerary combines the highlights of Peru and Ecuador, visiting Lima, Cuzco, Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, before fl ying to Quito and the Galapagos Islands. It is priced from £4,215 including international fl ights.
audleytravel.com EXPLORE - 0845 163 1701
Offers a 15-day land-based visit to the Galapagos Islands (as opposed to more common cruise itineraries) and mainland Ecuador, where it takes in Quito, Cotopaxi National Park, Otavalo and Guayaquil. The cost is from £2,249 excluding fl ights.
explore.co.uk
WHO FLIES THERE There are no direct fl ights between the UK and Peru or Ecuador. The best options are with KLM via Amsterdam, Air France via Paris and Air Europa, Iberia and LAN via Madrid
“Peru and Ecuador both offer a huge diversity of landscapes and experiences, from beautiful
coastlines to dramatic mountains and jungle. They are also home to fascinating indigenous cultures, making for varied itineraries.”
What sort of travellers are the destinations best suited to? Peru and Ecuador are ideal for fi rst time visitors to South America. They are destinations that appeal to high-end travellers – but those with a sense of adventure. They work well for families too as kids love the wildlife experiences of the
Galapagos Islands and the jungle.
What’s your personal favourite hotel or experience in the region? In Quito, Casa Gangotena in the heart of the city combines a classic feel with modern luxury and La Casona in Cuzco is a gorgeous boutique hotel, a converted 16th century manor house full of character.
4 nights* $
5 days 732 USD/pp Arrive Baltra -
Transfer to Isabela Island, Flamingos
Lagoon, stay in a hotel at Isabela Island
DAY 1 DAY 2 Volcan Sierra Negra and Volcan
Chico, Concha Perla, stay in a hotel at Isabela Island
e:
info@naturegalapagos.com naturegalapagosecuador @naturegalpagos
www.naturegalapagos.com DAY 3 DAY 4 Tintoreras Islet
(Snorkeling & boat tour), Giant Tortoise Breeding Center, Wall of Tears
(Muro de los Lagrimas), stay in a hotel at Isabela Island
Speedboat to Puerto Ayora (Santa
Cruz), Highlands & Ch. Darwin Station, stay in a hotel at Isabela Island
Rates include: *Accommodation in tourist class hotels; All meals - breakfast, lunch and dinner; Bilingual speaking naturalist guides for each island and activities; Snorkelling equipment on Isabela (mask, snorkel and fi ns); All transfers and transportation in
Galapagos during the program; Excursions and visits during the program. | Rates do not include:Galapagos national park entrance fee: $100USD pp; Migratory control card: $10USD pp; Isabela dock fee: $5USD pp; Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages; Air tickets; Tips.
Discover the magic of Galapagos!
DAY 5
Transfer out Baltra Airport, Visit “The Twins” on way out, and say Goodbye Galapagos!
Photo by: Caroline Marmion
Amanda Sweeney, Latin America Programme Manager, Rainbow Tours
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