Some of the greatest desert scenery in the world This Bolivia tour includes a fantastic variety of landscapes and experiences but for all of us on the tour the highlight was the desert scenery in particular the salt flats. Go before too many other tourists discover it! There is a lot of travelling and some long days but it is worth it. Julia our guide was quite simply one of the best tour guides I've had in around 40 group tours. Bolivia is a poor country but the people are friendly and we had no problems with strikes or roadblocks. Don't be put off by the trip note warnings about altitude sickness, perhaps we were lucky but in our group no-one had anything worse than a short-lasting slight headache.
Ideal compact trip for Machu Picchu This trip is very well designed as a way to walk to the Sun Gate, and achieve the iconic views of Machu Picchu, without having to undergo the demanding challenge of the full Inca Trail. I had booked to do the Classic Inca Trail four years ago, but first Covid then a heart attack meant that idea was not achievable. The walk up to the Sun Gate should not be underestimated, but is eminently 'doable' for anyone of reasonable fitness. The one day trek on the Inca Trail, and the tour round the site of Machu Picchu, were marvellous, unforgettable experiences. The days spent in Cusco offer a rich cultural experience, and Peruvian cuisine is simply wonderful, high quality at astounding value.
If it’s not at the top of your bucket list, a trip to the Galapagos certainly should be. We spent a week aboard Beluga with our guide, Darwin. His guiding, briefings, knowledge and care were all top class. The boat and our cabin were well planned and comfortable, food and snacks always good and the walks, snorkeling and kayaking fantastic outings. The abundance and proximity of the wildlife exceeded our dreams and we learned so much along the way. Second on our bucket list now? To return to Beluga!
