FOLLOW IN THE INCAS’ FOOTSTEPS
Culture & Andes
“You carefully brush your fingertips over the ancient stones of the Inca ruins. You have no doubt heard or read about these fascinating people, their religion and customs, but it’s very special to experience the power of such a spiritual place yourself and enjoy the same view as the Incas did centuries ago.”
The treasure chamber of South America
South America is filled with cultural highlights. The one that best captures the imagination is Machu Picchu, or the lost city. This city is located in the splendid Sacred Valley, the heart of the Inca Empire. It’s an impressive thought that this city was once built by human hands on a mountain summit of 2400 metres! You can make a trip to Machu Picchu from the city of Cusco. Because this was once the capital of the Inca empire, it holds many unique cultural treasures. The view from the Machu Picchu across the highest peaks of the Andes mountain range is quite unforgettable. This mountain range lies across 7 South American countries; you can’t miss it during your trip.
The North of Argentina has the charming city of Salta, the Andes here is jagged with ravines, salt flats and rough cactus landscapes with a clear blue sky. Red rock formations, coloured mineral mountains and unpaved roads full of native culture grace this landscape.
At, 3820 metres, Lake Titicaca, on the border of Peru and Bolivia, is the most navigable lake in the world. You can visit islands like Taquile and Uros, where you can walk along old Inca trails and both cook and stay with the families in their beautiful regional dress.
Culture goes beyond old stones and stories from times past. Enjoy all the other cultural riches of South America; whether it’s food, music, the best wines or the company of the vibrant inhabitants.
Experience culture & Andes:
- Cusco is the perfect base to visit Machu Picchu. The best time to walk the Inca Trail is during the dry season in Peru; from May to September. This Inca masterpiece can also be visited by taking the scenic train ride with panoramic views, a great way to admire the splendid valleys.
- Lake Titicaca can be visited during a trip of one or multiple days, you sail past various islands, walk the old Inca trails and can lodge with the local population.
- The Andes is accessible from multiple places. For example, you can make a wonderful one-day hike from Mendoza to the Aconcagua. From Salta, you can experience the rough Andes by bike, car or bus.
- Additionally, experience the vibrant culture in the various South American cities. Also see our swinging cities theme.
Some examples of trips for inspiration, can be completely customised to your wishes.
