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Enjoy a 4-night cruise aboard the M/V Santa Cruz, 2 nights in Guayaquil and 2 nights in Quito. Saturday departures
Purchase Deadline:
Aug 14, 08 - Thu
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| Package Includes |
Roundtrip flight to Guayaquil; returning from Quito
2-night hotel accommodation in Guayaquil
Flight Guayaquil / Galapagos Islands
4-night cruise aboard the Santa Cruz luxury vessel
Flight Galapagos Islands / Quito
2-night hotel accommodations in Quito
Transfers, tours and meals as specified in itinerary
Hotel taxes and service charges
Mandated Fuel Surcharges
Package price excludes airport taxes and fees
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| Vacation Package Itinerary |
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Day 1: U.S.A - Guayaquil
Upon arrival transfer to your hotel in Guayaquil. Most flights arrive the same day from the United States.
Guayaquil is the largest city in Ecuador with a population near 3 million, it is set along the chocolate-brown Guayas River on the flat coastal plains of Ecuador. It is the largest shipping port on the Pacific coast of South America and a great city to base yourself and explore the rest of the country or the Galapagos Islands. Quito may be rather high in elevation for some people but Guayaquil at sea level with a mild temperature is welcoming for everyone.
Accommodation in Guayaquil
Day 2: Guayaquil
Your tour of Guayaquil starts along the main avenue, the heart of the business district of the city, by the Centennial Park that honors the heroes of Guayaquil's independence. A stop is made at Bolívar Park, with an equestrian statue of South America's liberator, Simón Bolívar. This is also called "the park of the iguanas", as they roam around the park undisturbed and perch on the treetops, blending perfectly with the green leaves. Beside the park is the neo-gothic Metropolitan Cathedral. Drive through the open market of La Bahía, and the Spanish shipyard, now a Naval Museum. Then, a stroll along Guayaquil's new and ravishing Malecon 2000, a 2.5 Km. (1.5 mile) waterfront, running parallel to the River Guayas and featuring historical, cultural and entertainment areas. To the north of the waterfront is Santa Ana Hill and the oldest neighborhood of Guayaquil, Las Peñas, which has been beautifully restored with bright colored wooden constructions housing many art galleries. The next stop is Guayaquil's cemetery with outstanding marble sculptures by famous Italian artists and then drive along the newest neighborhoods in the Sanborondón area.<
Accommodation in Guayaquil (B)
Day 3: Guayaquil - Baltra Island
In the morning you transfer to the airport to meet your flight to Baltra Island and immediate transfer by bus (5 minutes) to the dock to board the MV SANTA CRUZ. Cabin assignment and introductory welcome talk. Later, lunch, and ship’s boat drill. Cerro Dragón (Dragon Hill) (Santa Cruz Island) The north shore of Santa Cruz hosts Cerro Dragón (Dragon Hill). A dinghy ride among mangrove-lined islets allows the observation of the dramatic landscape and coastline, an area of amazing past volcanic activity. While exploring the nearby waters, various types of birds can be seen, such as boobies, frigates, pelicans. Quite commonly, the black lava will reveal the presence of marine iguanas. The navigation in shallow turquoise colored water gives the chance to see marine turtles, rays and sharks. Dry landing and a walk that includes a brackish water lagoon frequented by greater flamingos, common stilts, pintail ducks and a variety of shore / lagoon birds. Further along the trail, we head to Dragon Hill, which offers a beautiful view of the bay and the western area of the archipelago. This area is a natural nesting site of a fairly large number of land iguanas, which is constantly monitored and assisted by the Charles Darwin Research Station. The arid-zone vegetation can be a rewarding location for birdwatching, where Darwin’s finches, Galápagos mockingbirds, the endemic Galápagos flycatcher, and yellow warblers are regular sightings.
Accommodation Onboard (B,L,D)
Day 4: Bartolomé Island
Disembark at Bartolomé Island (dry landing) for a hike to the summit. Great way to start the day. This is a steep climb aided by a wooden staircase; the view from the top is worth the effort. Panga ride around colossal Pinnacle Rock, time to enjoy the beach (wet landing) and snorkeling. Chance to snorkel next to Galápagos Penguins. There is also the possibility to ride on the glass bottom boat for great views of the underwater world. Lunch on board. Puerto Egas (Santiago (James) Island) Afternoon outing at Puerto Egas (wet landing). This is a great location to see particularly shore birds, while land birds can be observed a little more inland. The pitch black shores are great places for watching sea birds and their foraging duties. The trail brings us to a colony of the endemic Galápagos fur-sea lions. At low tide, marine iguanas graze upon emerald green algae beds. Outstanding snorkeling and swimming from the beach before the walk. ECO Moment and briefing before dinner. Weather permitting, stargazing on deck.
Accommodation Onboard (B,L,D)
Day 5: Darwin Bay (Genovesa (Tower) Island)
Before breakfast, early morning entrance into Darwin Bay. Wet landing at a small white-coralline beach for an easy stroll observing hundreds of birds, mainly Great frigate birds, red footed and Nazca (masked) boobies, lava gulls, herons, finches and mockingbirds. Later, the trail leads to an area of sharp lava and uneven terrain, but you may return to the beach or continue observing wildlife within the sandy portions of the walk. Those more adventurous can snorkel along the cliffs while looking for colorful tropical fish, and hopefully some Hammerhead Sharks. Lunch on board. Throughout the morning we will carefully observe how local conditions unfold, in order to choose the best option for our afternoon program. Therefore, we will either navigate towards North Seymour, or shall remain anchored at impressive Darwin Bay, and spend the afternoon at Prince Philip Steps. The Expedition Staff will announce accordingly. Please find below full description of both possible sites. North Seymour Island During navigation, spend some time on deck looking for dolphins or possibly whales. This is one of the few uplifted islands in Galápagos. In previous times, this was the ocean's bed. Today's afternoon walk includes a dry landing for a view of the coast and the interior of the island, while exploring colonies of blue footed boobies, Magnificent frigate birds, and swallowtail gulls. The sandy shore teems with Galápagos sea lions and marine iguanas. A shorter walk may be also offered. ECO Moment, Naturalist's briefing, and dinner. Prince Philip Steps (Genovesa (Tower) Island) As we explore the coastline of Darwin Bay, the cliffs of this eroded caldera will reveal its past geological power, with features like lava tubes where red-billed tropic birds nest, and some odd ones like cactus next to a tropical ocean. Then, disembark (dry landing) on rocks for a steep climb (90 feet) and then a leveled walk for about a mile to the other side of this small island observing large colonies of Nazca (masked) boobies, frigate birds, storm petrels and the well camouflaged short-eared owl. ECO Moment, Naturalist's briefing and dinner.
Accommodation Onboard (B,L,D)
Day 6: Santa Fé (Barrington) Island
Early morning (pre-breakfast) visit to Santa Fé (Barrington) Island. This island, according to the latest geological studies, shows the islands’ oldest rocks. The small bay on Santa Fe's northern coast provides one of the most picturesque harbors within the archipelago. A large sea lion colony inhabits most of the surrounding landing site. Follow the trail among a very tall forest of opuntia cacti, where large and somewhat pale land iguanas, that are island endemics, can be seen. A variety of finches and the Galápagos mockingbird abound. Back to the ship for breakfast, as we sail to Santa Cruz Island. Puerto Ayora (Santa Cruz Island)Mid morning disembarkation (dry landing) to visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and the rearing in captivity program for the giant tortoises. Impressive giant prickly-pear cactus forest and many land birds can be also seen. Then, a stroll along the main street of Puerto Ayora will allow you to see how Galapagueños live in this magical paradise. We believe that our presence should benefit local communities too. Lunch at beautiful Finch Bay Hotel. In the afternoon drive up to the lush highlands, including the Scalesia (an endemic giant daisy tree) forest and the twin pit craters Los Gemelos. The trip to the highlands includes the islands’ most-famous reptile: the giant tortoises in their wild habitat. What a privilege to see an endangered species roving in this lush environment. The vermilion flycatcher will delight all participants with its scarlet feathers against an emerald green forest. Look for the Darwin’s finches of the highlands (most of them from the tree-finch group), particularly the famous Woodpecker Finch. Return aboard the MV SANTA CRUZ for tonight’s ECO Moment, briefing and dinner.
Accommodation Onboard (B,L,D)
Please note that aside from our regular program, the day spent at Santa Cruz Island offers some multisport activities like sea kayaking, hiking to Tortuga Bay, beach combing at Finch Bay Hotel, scuba diving, as well as other options that can be taken at your own pace. The Expedition Staff will carefully explain what is there to do at this dazzling island. Of course, some of these options are at an additional cost, and must be paid on site.
Day 7: Puerto Baquerizo Moreno (San Cristóbal (Chatham) Island) / Quito
Disembark at Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. This small attractive port is the provincial capital of the Galápagos Islands (population 4,000), along a crescent-shaped bay. It was this very same island that Charles Darwin first visited, back in September 1835. Visit the San Cristóbal Interpretation Center, located in a natural setting, where it allows visitors to obtain information that will help them understand more the natural history of the Galápagos, with a great emphasis on human history and conservation. Afterwards, you can stroll through Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, where souvenir shops and Internet cafés welcome world travelers who are willing to catch up with the world, and share the many wonders witnessed, before heading back to the mainland. Transfer to the airport to take the flight to Quito. Upon arrival transfer to your hotel
Accommodation in Quito (B)
Day 8: Quito - Otovalo
In the morning a representative will pick you up at your hotel and take you on a full day tour to Otovalo. Otavalo is South America’s most famous Indian fair. Here Otavaleños barter in silence, in marked contrast to the raucous noise of other markets. Early departure from Quito through dramatic mountain scenery. You will have ample time to visit the famous market and stroll along the narrow cobblestone streets filled with Otavalo Indians wearing blue ponchos, white trousers and long braided hair. Lunch is at one of the charming country inns or haciendas. Private tour includes an additional visit to the wood carving town of San Antonio de Ibarra or the leather shops in Cotacachi.
Accommodation in Quito (B, L)
Day 9: Quito - USA
After breakfast a representative will pick you up and take you to the airport to meet your flight back home. (B)
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| Vacation Specs |
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LOA: 237 feet
Beam: 38 feet
Speed: 13 knots
Comfort Equipment: Central air-conditioning, radio, telephone, fax and email communications available, boutique and souvenir shop, reading room and library
Crew: 52 + 6 naturalist guides
Passengers: 90
Sea Kayaks: No
Snorkelling Equipment: Yes
Occasional Diving: No
Wet Suits: No |
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| Notes & Restrictions |
Notes:
Galapagos National Park admission fee (US $100 - must be paid locally, cash only).
Space is limited and your desired travel dates may not be available if you wait, so book early to avoid disappointment. We highly recommend 2nd and 3rd choices for travel dates and/or accommodations.
South America Departure Tax:
Upon departure in local currency or USD (cash only) the amount of $20 - 35 in some countries is required (amounts may vary daily based on currency fluctuations). Aircraft boarding will be denied to any passenger who fails to pay this tax which is collected after check-in and prior to boarding by Federal Airport staff. Passport Requirements:
It is the sole responsibility of each passenger to obtain the necessary documents for travel, not excluding passports and visas. A valid passport is normally the only requirement for U.S. citizens. Visa requirements do change without notice and vary by nationality. Please check with the consulate office of the destination country as to visa requirements.
Non refundable and non changeable package.
Full payment due within 1 day of booking by 2pm.
Passport numbers are required for confirmation.
Galapagos Islands Migration Control Card
Cost is 10 USD and allows tourists a maximum 90-day stay in the islands. Fee will be collected locally.
Restrictions:
This package is valid for Saturday departures only, please call for different departure options.
Prices are per person based on double occupancy and a 30-day advance
purchase. Purchases within 30 days will incur additional shipping and handling fees. Air carrier used in the package is based on gateway and availability at time of booking and multiple flights connections may be necessary. Flight departure times may be at any time on your requested departure day. Surcharges up to $50 per person each way apply for travel Thursday through Monday depending on travel dates. Air taxes/Government-imposed fees/surcharges of up to approx. $180 including the Sept. 11th Security Fee of $2.50 per segment and airline imposed fuel charges of up to $100 will be applied. These fees are in addition to the package prices and will be added to invoice. Travel is valid for these dates only. Certain other restrictions may apply, and offer is subject to change without notice. No request will be processed until full payment is received.
Once submitted your request can take at least 24 hours to confirm.
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