Machu Picchu Holidays
Machu Picchu is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. Set high in the Andes and surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery, the Lost City of the Incas is one of South America's most iconic sights. The exact purpose of Machu Picchu remains unknown. However, the quality of the stonework, the temples and fountains, and its position amongst the sacred mountains of the Andes suggest it was an important ceremonial centre.
There are several ways to visit Machu Picchu. You can travel by train and visit the site in a day, hike the classic four-day Inca Trail, or choose the Short Inca Trail, which still allows you to arrive at Machu Picchu on foot. There are also opportunities to upgrade to the Hiram Bingham train or add a second visit to explore the site at a more relaxed pace.
As one of the world's most popular attractions, entry to Machu Picchu is carefully managed.
Visitors are allocated timed entrance tickets and must follow designated routes through the site. For those wanting more time to explore the ruins and the surrounding scenery, returning for a second day is a popular option.
Chichen Itza Holidays
Set in the heart of the Yucatán Peninsula, Chichen Itza is one of the most important Maya archaeological sites in Mexico. Named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007, it is best known for the impressive Kukulkan Pyramid, which dominates the centre of the site.
Chichen Itza was an important political and religious centre and was later influenced by the Toltecs, whose impact can still be seen in the site's architecture and carvings. Other highlights include the Temple of the Warriors, the Great Ball Court, the Observatory and the Nunnery Complex. The region's natural sinkholes, known as cenotes, played an important role in Maya life and religion, and many of the site's temples feature carvings linked to Chaac, the Maya rain god.
The archaeological site can be explored in around two to three hours and combines well with a visit to the colonial city of Mérida or Mexico's Caribbean coast.
Petra Holidays
Hidden amongst the sandstone mountains of southern Jordan, Petra is one of the world's most remarkable archaeological sites. Established by the Nabataeans over 2,000 years ago, it became a wealthy trading centre thanks to its position on the ancient routes linking Arabia, Egypt and the Mediterranean. Today, Petra is recognised as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Visitors enter Petra through the Siq, a narrow canyon with towering rock walls. At the end of the gorge is the Treasury, Petra's most famous monument and one of the most recognisable sights in the Middle East. Beyond it lies a vast site filled with temples, tombs and other structures carved directly into the rose-coloured rock.
Among the highlights are the Royal Tombs, the Theatre and the impressive Monastery, reached by climbing a series of stone steps. Several walking trails lead to viewpoints overlooking the site and the surrounding desert landscape.
Petra can be explored in a day, although a longer visit allows more time to discover its quieter corners and enjoy some of the walking routes. The site can also be visited during Petra by Night, when thousands of candles illuminate the Siq and Treasury, creating a unique atmosphere.
Taj Mahal Holidays
The Taj Mahal is India's most famous monument and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, it is widely regarded as one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture.
Constructed from white marble and decorated with intricate carvings and precious stones, the Taj Mahal is renowned for its beauty and symmetry. The monument changes colour throughout the day as the light shifts, making sunrise and sunset particularly memorable times to visit.
Located in Agra, the Taj Mahal is often combined with visits to Agra Fort and the abandoned city of Fatehpur Sikri, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. While photographs are familiar to most visitors before they arrive, seeing the monument in person is an unforgettable experience.
Christ the Redeemer Holidays
Standing on top of Corcovado Mountain, Christ the Redeemer is one of the most recognisable landmarks in the world and the symbol of Rio de Janeiro. Completed in 1931, the 30-metre-high statue overlooks the city, its beaches and the surrounding mountains.
The monument sits within Tijuca National Park, one of the largest urban forests in the world.
Visitors can reach the summit by train, passing through the tropical forest before arriving at the viewing platform.
As impressive as the statue itself is, the view from the top. From here, you can look out across Rio's famous beaches, Sugar Loaf Mountain, Guanabara Bay and the city's dramatic coastline.
Combining one of the world's most iconic monuments with some of Brazil's finest scenery, Christ the Redeemer is a highlight of any visit to Rio de Janeiro.