Andes Archives - Page 2 of 3

Colombia’s Archaelogical Heartland: San Agustín and Tierradentro

By HighburyNomad On 30/08/2018

Southern Colombia is home to two of the country’s most important archaeological sites—San Agustín and Tierradentro—both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These ancient locations provide a rare glimpse into pre-Columbian cultures whose identities remain largely mysterious. With their intricate statues, burial chambers, and tombs, these sites are an archaeological treasure trove.

Southern Colombian Borderlands: Gothic Sanctuary, Topiaries and Volcanoes

By HighburyNomad On 24/08/2018

Southern Colombia and the Colombia Ecuador border, characterized by the Andes mountains. The region’s history reflects indigenous, Incan, and Spanish influences. Key towns like Pasto and Tulcán and the spiritual Santuario de Las Lajas offer cultural experiences, while migration issues and infrastructure challenges persist.

Quito, Otavalo & the Equator

By HighburyNomad On 23/08/2018

Iglesia de Santo Domingo, Quito, Ecuador

On our second and third visits to Quito we stayed in the old town, which is a lot quieter than the New Town, especially at night. The old town has largely kept most of its …

Southern Peru – Nazca, Huacachina and Paracas

By HighburyNomad On 27/07/2018

Southern Peru is a region rich in ancient history, adventure, and stunning natural beauty. This blog covers three key destinations: the enigmatic Nazca Lines, the desert oasis of Huacachina, and the wildlife haven of Paracas.

Cusco – Colonial and Inca City

By HighburyNomad On 15/07/2018

Cusco is a city where history pulses through every cobblestone street, from the remnants of its Inca past to the grandeur of colonial architecture. Cusco serves not only as a gateway to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu but also as a destination in its own right, rich in stories, traditions, and a resilient spirit.

Inca Trail and Machu Picchu

By HighburyNomad On 14/07/2018

The Classic Inca Trail is a journey of physical endurance and cultural discovery, finishing at Machu Picchu, one of the wonders of the world.

Colca Canyon – Where Condors Soar

By HighburyNomad On 04/07/2018

Overview The Colca Canyon, located about 160 kilometres northwest of Arequipa, where condors soar, is one of the deepest canyons in the world, reaching depths of over 3,270 metres (10,730 feet), more than twice as deep as …

Quito – Heritage at High Altitude

By HighburyNomad On 09/06/2018

Iglesia de San Francisco, Quito, Ecuador

Overview The Dragoman trip finished in Quito with a drive of 191kms from the Ecuadorian Amazon up the foothills to historic Quito, one of the highest cities in the world. Quito, Ecuador’s capital, is a …

Baños and the Equadorean Amazon – Forests and Jungle

By HighburyNomad On 07/06/2018

Baños, the gateway to the Ecuadorian Amazon, offers adventure with its waterfalls, thermal baths, and lush cloud forests. Exploring the Rio Napo and visiting indigenous communities highlights the region’s deep cultural roots, while ongoing reforesting efforts showcase the area’s commitment to preserving Ecuador’s rich biodiversity and Amazonian wilderness.

Chugchilán – Quilotoa Loop

By HighburyNomad On 30/05/2018

Chugchilán, a remote village on the Quilotoa Loop, offers stunning views of the Ecuadorian Andes and access to the famous Quilotoa Crater Lake. This rugged hiking route provides a rewarding experience with its breathtaking landscapes and the opportunity to explore traditional Andean communities.