These travel writings capture the excitement and spirit of the South American Andes. Our journey starts at the equator and takes us south through Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia and Chile. Wherever possible we leave the beaten track to get a true feel of the cultural, geographical and historical diversities of this inspirational continent. Highlights include a tour of the mysterious Galapagos Islands, walking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, a humbling trip to a working mine which has claimed the lives of millions and being robbed at gunpoint.