MACHU  PICCHU AND THE GALAPAGOS

 

Machu Picchu from near by mountain

Llamas looking down on Machu Picchu

Llamas sunrise Machu Picchu

Boy looking at spider Quito

 

We traveled with a group of fellow photographers to Peru and Ecuador. In Peru we visited small villages, the picturesque Incan city of Cuzco and the Lima, But the star attraction was the legendary hidden city of Machu Picchu. From Lima at sea level we reached altitudes of 12,000 feet near Cuzco. There were many opportunities to meet  the people as we visited schools and local markets.

In Ecuador we spent time in Quito (12,000 feet) and Guyaquil, but the highlight was the week we spent on a boat visiting 9 of the Galapagos Islands. It was the flora and fauna of these islands that provided Charles Darwin 's inspiration for his Theory of Evolution. Visitors are strictly limited in number and duration of visit to minimize the impact of man on the environment. As a result, the animals have little fear of man, allowing photographers to get up close, even to nesting birds.

 

 

 

Family waiting for bus Cusco

  

Sea Lions on beach Galapagos

 

Giant Tortoise Galapagos

 

Sally Lightfoot crab Galapagos

Male Frigate bird mating balloon inflated

Blue footed Boobie Galapagos