Chile
A long, thin, ribbon-like country that spans almost a quarter of the globe in length – a staggering 4,300-kilometres to be exact – Chile is a land of extremes. Backed by the Andes to the East and the Pacific Ocean to the West, scorched deserts give way to bucolic, grape-garlanded vineyards; active volcanoes rub shoulders with glossy lakes and pretty forests; and the needle-sharp glaciers of the ice fields stand stark and proud against a Patagonian wilderness.
PERU
Peru is famed for its many wonders, from the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu and the dramatic mountains of the Sacred Valley. Over centuries, cultural diversity has brought with it an exciting assortment of ingredients and dishes, resulting in a unique cuisine incorporating Spanish, Indigenous, Asian and African influences. Peru has quietly transitioned from a top South American travel hotspot to one of the world’s most exciting destinations.
CUSCO
In Cusco, every corner tells a story, and every story is captivating, mystical and inviting. Imagine walking through streets with names like “Ataúd” [Coffin], Siete Culebras [Seven Serpents] and “Arpías” [Harpies]. In these streets time seems to have stopped, every corner offers a piece of history, and the stones remain alive because they have survived intact. Cusco witnessed the arrival of the Spanish, and yet to this day it conserves an ancestral magic which captivates the thousands of visitors who each year form part of its living history. Cusco, acknowledged as the historic capital of Peru, renowned as the navel of the Earth. Unmissable!
Machu Picchu
Shrouded by mist and surrounded by lush vegetation and steep escarpments, the sprawling Inca citadel of Machu Picchu lives up to every expectation. In a spectacular location, it’s one of the most famous archaeological sites on the planet. Like the Mona Lisa or the pyramids, it has been seared into our collective consciousness, though nothing can diminish the thrill of being here. This awe-inspiring ancient city was never revealed to the Spanish colonizers and was virtually forgotten until the early part of the 20th century.
THE SACRED VALLEY
When arriving at the Sacred Valley, it is impossible not to be impressed by the beauty of the Urubamba mountains and the green fields bathed by the waters of the meandering Vilcanota River. This splendid Andean valley is home to major archaeological sites and picturesque villages that have maintained their ancestral culture. Maras, Moray, Pisac, Chinchero and Ollantaytambo form part of this cultural richness, but the valley also offers incredible natural beauty, which is the perfect setting for outdoor activities, or simply for relaxing. The Sacred Valley promises a day of exploration and adventure on the route to the famous ruins of Machu Picchu.
