Galapagos and Peru holidays

If opting for Peru first, it’s likely you’ll fly into Lima and head down to Cuzco, and either acclimatise for a couple of days before trekking to Machu Picchu – or enjoy the city and the nearby Sacred Valley before heading to the famous ruins by train. Following your Inca encounter, you’ll fly up to Quito, with a day or so before flying out to embark on your Galapagos cruise, typically lasting five to eight days. Reverse trips begin in Quito or Guayaquil – Ecuador’s largest city, and the leaping off point for Galapagos. Additional days can give you more time in the highland cities – or glimpses of the Peruvian Amazon or Lake Titicaca.

The main reason for combining these two destinations is to visit Machu Picchu and to see Galapagos wildlife all on one glorious trip. Machu Picchu is a marvel of the Incan civilisation, incredible stonework in a dramatic Andean setting; the stones that make up the buildings in the citadel are so skilfully carved that they fit together precisely without the need for cement. Those with four days to spare can take on the Inca Trail, crossing high passes, passing scattered ruins, and traversing mist-filled forests. Alternatively, take the train from Cuzco, enjoying panoramic views along the way.

Cuzco and Quito are two of South America’s most enchanting historic cities – and with any luck you’ll have the opportunity to explore both. With altitudes of 3,400m and 2,850m respectively, these are not cities to rush around; mooch around the museums, browse colourful markets and sip locally grown coffee as you acclimatise.

Once you’ve explored Peru’s treasures on land, it’s time to take to the seas. One of the best ways to explore the Galápagos Islands is on a small ship cruise. Sailing overnight and arriving at different islands most days, this is a great way to see as much as possible – helping you appreciate their diverse landscapes, subspecies and human settlements. This is not the kind of cruise where you barely disembark; you’ll be off the ship every day, hanging out on black sand beaches, hiking up active volcanoes, visiting the giant tortoise breeding centre and snorkelling around remote, rocky outcrops, hoping for an encounter with a sea lion or marine iguana.

April and May are considered the best months to go to Peru and Galapagos; the Peruvian mountains are lush from the recent rain and you’ll miss the summer crowds. You’ll also hit peak breeding season in Galapagos for many species. But book well in advance, especially if trekking the Inca Trail; permits sell out fast. Other times of year have their merits, too. Wildlife can be seen in Galapagos all year round. June to November is cooler and drier. December to June is warmer, with short showers, calmer seas and great underwater visibility. February to April is peak breeding or nesting season for many island species. Just note that the Inca Trail is closed for the month of February.

Be sure to book well in advance – six months is on the safe side – particularly if travelling in the peak holiday months of July and August or December. Just 500 permits per day are available for the Inca Trail, with around 300 of these for guides and porters. There’s also limited space on Galapagos ships, especially if you’d like to be able to choose your vessel and cabin.