Best time to go to Peru & Galapagos

The main reason for combining these two destinations is, of course, to visit Machu Picchu. This marvel of Incan civilisation combines a dramatic Andean setting with incredible stonework; the stones are so skillfully carved that they fit together precisely without the need for cement. Those with four days to spare – and healthy knees – 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 colonial 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 indigenous markets and sip locally grown coffee as you acclimatise.

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.

Overlook local culture. The Galápagos Islands are celebrated for their wildlife and the Sacred Valley for its ancient history – but it’s worth spending time with their contemporary human inhabitants, too. Explore food and craft markets in Cuzco, chat to your local guide, and learn a few words of Quechua. Some tours even offer a homestay with your porter. Some 27,000 people live in the Galápagos, and local guides can give a fascinating insight into daily life on these protected islands. Learn about the human history, too which is as intriguing as it is grisly.

Ignore your trip notes. Peru and Galápagos holidays take you from high Andean peaks to equatorial islands by way of volcanoes, cloud forest and colonial cities. You’ll need good walking gear – especially if hiking the Inca Trail – and waterproofs, as well as sunscreen, bathers, a sun hat and possibly even a rain poncho. Chat to your holiday company, read the trip notes thoroughly – and you won’t get caught out.

Dawdle. 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 Galápagos ships, especially if you’d like to be able to choose your vessel and cabin. So be sure to book well in advance – six months is on the safe side – particularly if travelling in the peak holiday months of July/August or December.

“Try to prepare for the difference in altitude, especially if staying in Cusco. All hotels provide coca leaf or tea which is very helpful, or purchase coca sweets. A light diet is essential.....and don't drink too many "pisco sours"..... Alcohol at altitude will ruin your holiday!” – Sandra Clegg

“The boat was quite bumpy when going between islands which tended to be at night, so sleeping can be awkward, maybe wear ear plugs (engine can be noisy). But to travel to so many islands this needs to be done. Would recommend to take collins Galápagos book to help identify birds etc.” – Debbie Cowburn

“Pack your clothes in waterproof bags. Despite the porters efforts to keep everything dry, when it rained on the last day many of our clothes got wet in the duffle bags. Would have been a bit miserable if we had still been camping... It can get quite rough at sea in the Galápagos. Several people, including myself, were sick one evening. Might have been able to get better medication on prescription if I had known, as the over-the-counter tablets made me drowsy. If you do feel sick, go to your cabin & lie down - it was much worse on deck. Don't let this put you off – was still a superb trip & the yacht & crew were first class.” – Carol Smith

“You will live and travel in walking footwear so make sure you get some boots or walking trainers that will go anywhere (day and evening). Take a rain poncho rather than a waterproof jacket, the poncho is easier to get on and off and will keep your rucksack dry. Pack as light as you can - It makes moving from one place to the next easier.” – Tricia Blundell

“Spend at least one day on the Galápagos mainland after coming off the boat to "wind down". I was so full of impressions and emotions, that coming so abruptly back to Quito felt a little awkward. Having a day just to stroll around the little town or sitting by the sea would have done the trick. This trip isn't the cheapest you can buy, but it sure was value for my money!” – Turid B. Ekeberg