The center of the world
ECUADOR
Bolivia
The rising Andes, colonial cities, salt plains, can clearly be said that Bolivia is a real feast for the eyes. Although it is one of the poorest countries in South America, Bolivia’s rich cultural heritage enhances its appeal and makes it a destination worth visiting.
One of the best adrenaline trips that Bolivia has to offer is the famous Death road. A crazy cycling adventure that will take you on a wild cycling tour on one of the most dangerous routes in the world. If you follow the instructions of the guide, you will have an extraordinary day.
La Paz and the Death road – Map and information
Another attraction is the Bolivian Salar de Uyuni, one of the largest salt lakes in the world. And it is visible from space! It is located 3650 meters above sea level and annually produces about 25,000 tons of salt. You can stay here at the Playa Blanca, which is built of salt. But not only walls, but also tables, chairs and beds.
Lake Titicaca is the icing on the cake at the end of its journey through Bolivia. A trip here and a cruise on the waters is something you will probably never forget. It is also interesting that Titicaca is one of the highest lakes in the world and is also the largest freshwater lake in South America. In addition to the mystical atmosphere and traditional culture, you can admire the beautiful natural phenomena and the high mountains reach a height of up to 6,000 meters.
You can spend time in the Bolivian town of Copacabana on the edge of the lake or head to the Isla del Sol or the stone island of Taquile, where you can spend a few nights in peace and seclusion.
In the cozy local restaurants, markets and street stalls you will find everything that local cuisine has to offer.
Did you know that…
… the national delicacy pays “cuy”, ie guinea pig?
Peru
Peru is the jewel of South America. This country offers diversity, beautiful nature, fascinating history and even delicious food.
You can go hiking in the mountains in Huaraz, where the Huascaran National Park is. It is an alpine area full of glaciers, snow-capped peaks, incredible lakes and Andean scenery. You can surf at the beautiful Pacific beaches of Trujillo and Máncora.
Machu Picchu – walk from the hydroelectric power plant
One of the most popular and famous Peruvian tourist destinations is definitely Machu Picchu. But don’t be discouraged by the crowds, because this incredible Inca fortress is definitely worth the trip. Whether you go there on a hike, train or bus, you will definitely not be disappointed.
Tip: Don’t forget to buy a ticket in advance here.
Cusco is considered the main tourist hub, from where you have access to the Andes and the Amazon. In the city you can see historical monuments with amazing architecture, visit museums or buy various souvenirs. A mystical experience awaits you in the Nazca desert, where there are ancient drawings and figures from pre-Incinov times. The Nazca Lines and Geoglyphs are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular archaeological sites.
The floating islands of Los Uros can be reached from Puno. Puno is the starting point, just come to the port, where there are many boats and companies with which you can get to the islands.
We can not forget the maté, herbal extract made from coca leaves. Coca leaves are used as a luxury food for cultural and medicinal purposes. Because chewing leaves improves the absorption of oxygen in the blood, they are a successful cure for altitude sickness.
Ecuador
Ecuador is a relatively small country, but travelers can enjoy a number of amazing experiences that can fill you with weeks or even months of travel! The vast diversity of the country provides so many different places, whether you want to get to know the culture, are interested in nature or prefer relaxation. There is something for everyone!
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Ecuador has two historic centers recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its long-standing cultural value. The first is Quito. It is said to have the best-preserved historic center in all of Latin America. As you walk through the city, you will feel as if you have returned to another era. The historic streets of Cuenca have a European touch, also nicknamed “Ecuadorian Athens”. The center is inlaid with stone, cathedrals and buildings are lined with marble, which adds a colonial character.
Near the capital Quito, is Mitad del Mundo, a place where the equator crosses. To celebrate this fact, a monument to the equator, an ethnographic museum and the Intinan solar museum were built here.
The Inca archaeological sites are not just in Machu Picchu. Throughout the Andes you will find many Inca ruins and Ingapirca is the largest complex in Ecuador, home to the Temple of the Sun, the only elliptical Inca temple in the region.
Baňos de Agua Santa is known as the gateway to the Amazon basin and especially for its hot springs, which have a reputation for healing effects. The route through the valley offers stunning views of several waterfalls. You can also choose from a variety of activities such as white water rafting, canoeing, mountain biking and hiking. But don’t forget to have a massage or spa treatment in the background of the lush rainforest.
Laguna de Quilotoa Crater – tourism around the crater
Ecuador also boasts impressive crater lakes. Quilotoa Crater, El Altar and Laguna Cuicocha. Quilotoa Crater and Laguna Cuicocha are accessible by bus or sightseeing. However, hiking around craters pays off more. The bike path also offers a number of hiking trails with wonderful panoramic views that will be worth it.
Tip: Galapagos, a group of volcanic islands in the Pacific, is probably the most interesting living museum in the world. They are located on the Ecuadorian coast and are full of unique wilderness and various species of animals that you will not find anywhere else. Seeing the Galapagos is a life-changing experience.
TravelMapsGuide.com
TravelMapsGuide.com