South America:Galapagos
Ecuadorian Explorations
Tour Highlights:
-Discover Quito, one of South America’s most charming and culturally rich colonial cities and meet two of its most acclaimed artists
- Explore Ecuador’s exceptional artisan villages in the Andean countryside as well as market day in Otavalo, the country’s finest native market
-Travel into the heart of Mindo-Nambillo Cloud Forest; hike in El Pahuma Reserve and along the rim of an extinct volcano, Pululahua Crater
-Discover the islands animals made famous by Charles Darwin during a five-day cruise in the Galapagos aboard the Santa Cruz, your specially equipped vessel for a voyage of exploration and amazement
Day 1: Arrive Quito, Ecuador
Welcome to Ecuador! Arrive in Quito where your escort is waiting to drive you to your lovely hotel. Hotel Hilton Colon
Day 2: Quito
A full-day private tour of Quito begins in the colonial heart of the old center along its narrow, winding cobblestone streets, magnificent churches and wide-open squares. The architecture reveals the Spanish colonial influence in the balconies, tile roofs, thick columns and central patios. Discover the incomparably rich La Compania church and San Francisco Square. Drive up Panecillo Hill for glorious views of the city and surroundings. Enjoy a typical Ecuador lunch overlooking the serene countryside. Visit the Equatorial Monument, where you can stand in the northern and southern hemispheres at the same time. Hotel Hilton Colon (B,L,D)
Day 3: Quito / Otavalo
You have the opportunity to explore the fascinating villages north of Quito. Travel through the lush Andean countryside to several villages, each of which specializes in a traditional art or craft. Visit Calderon, known for bread-dough figures. Enjoy lunch at a native Indian Hacienda. Meet talented woodcarvers of San Antonio de Ibarra and leather crafters of Cotacachi. See a demonstration, using traditional "back-strap" loom. Your hotel has stirring views of the Andes, a swimming pool and spa. Hosteria La Mirage (B,L,D)
Day 4: Otavalo / Mindo Cloud Forest
Welcome to Otavalo, Ecuador’s most famous native market. Market day here continues much as it has for centuries. Villagers come from throughout the region, each identifiable by the designs of their ponchos and hats. After lunch, leave for Mindo-Nambillo Cloud Forest, northwest of Quito. The forest is known for a wealth of birds, particularly hummingbirds. Sachatamia Lodge (B,L,D)
Day 5: Mindo Cloud Forest
Relax into the rhythms of the cloud forest on trails that wind through this pristine sanctuary. See brightly colored tanagers and striking mountain toucans. A hike takes you to a lek, a place for bird courtship. In a rarely witnessed ritual, up to a dozen, handsome male Cock-of-the-Rock birds fly branch to branch, displaying brilliant red feathers with loud calls to attract females. Sachatamia Lodge (B,L,D)
Day 6: Mindo Cloud Forest / Pululahua Crater
Waterfall cascades and delicate hummingbirds are two of the stars on this early morning walk. Continue to El Pahuma Orchid Reserve, a privately owned reserve that protects over 1,500 acres of tropical montane forest lying between 5,300 feet and 8,600 feet elevation. This biologically rich ecosystem is protected by a conservation easement, only the second implemented inSouth America. More than 170 species of orchids can be found on this reserve alone, along with more than 350 bird species. Visit the original Equatorial Monument, marking latitude zero. Drive to an extinct volcano. El Crater Lodge (B,L,D)
Day 7: Pululahua Crater / Quito
The best chance to see the crater is early morning before the thick fog sets in. Hike or ride into the crater, passing several habitats. Savor lunch at the brim of the crater, and visit the Solar Museum. Return to Quito this afternoon and enjoy some time on your own. Hotel Hilton Colon (B,L)
Day 8: Quito / Galapagos Islands
Today you are transported into another world: fly from theAndes to the sea-level landscapes of the Galapagos. During your cruise, enjoy a variety of activities: nature walks, animal encounters, and snorkeling. M/V Santa Cruz (B,L,D)
Days 9 – 12: Galapagos Islands
Explore the remarkable ecosystems of these islands, dramatic volcanic terrain, and extraordinary animal encounters. The route and program may vary according to National Park policies and regulations, weather conditions, etc. But these islands are on the itinerary: Baltra Island & Cerro Dragón (Dragon Hill); Santa Cruz Island; Bartolomé Island; Puerto Egas, Santiago Island; Rabida Island; Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island; Highlands of Santa Cruz Island; North Seymour Island; Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, SanCristóbal. M/V Santa Cruz (B,L,D daily)
Day 12: Galapagos / Quito
Transfer from your ship to the airport for return a flight to the mainland. Upon arrival in Quito private transfer from the airport to the hotel. Hotel Hilton Colon (B)
Day 13: Quito / Depart
Private transfer from hotel to airport for your departing international flight. (B)
Rates/Departures:
Ecuadorian Explorations | Double | Single Supplement | Comments |
| Departure Dates: Jan 18, Feb 15, Apr 12, Apr 26, May 17, Jun 14, Jul 12, Aug 09, Sep 13, Sep 27, Oct 11, Oct 25, Nov 08, Nov 22, Nov 29, Dec 06, 2010 | $6050 | $1690 | |
| Sample Internal Airfare | $520 | N/A | Economy |
All rates are land/cruise basis only. Airfare between Ecuador mainland and Galapagos is additional: $520 per person (subject to change). International airfares are available upon request. All rates are based on a minimum of 2 guests traveling. The single supplements indicated are based on a single room supplement after the two passenger minimum is met. For solo travelers, additional supplements will apply. Please note that a Galapagos Fuel Surcharge may apply.