Galapagos Explorer
The natural history of these islands is eminently curious, and well
deserves attention. Most of the organic product ions... are found nowhere
else; there is even a difference between the inhabitants of the different
islands.
-Charles Darwin,
Voyage of the Beagle
Galapagos
Las Islas Encantadas - The Enchanted Islands
Unequivocally, the most exciting wildlife preserve in the world. The Galapagos is a virtual Garden of Eden and is a living laboratory of evolution.Much of the same fauna and flora still thrive on the islands today: the marine and land iguanas, the giant tortoises and sea lion colonies, the famous Darwin finch, the flightless cormorant, the only equatorial penguin and the magnificent frigate bird, to name just a few. The underwater life is another highlight of the trip.
We will be cruising in a comfortable motor yacht, intimately exploring numerous shore areas, hiking, walking, tide pooling, snorkeling, botanizing, bird watching, swimming and whale watching. Many of you will be photographing and the trip and itinerary is especially suited for the photographer. The photographic opportunities are outstanding.
The yacht, Samba, will anchor at each island destination, and pangas (small boats) will ferry you to the landing. Naturalist guides will accompany us on marked paths, skirting the bird nesting areas. The terrain is often rough, so you should be in good physical condition. Some islands have excellent swimming beaches and snorkeling areas. You'll want to bring your own mask, snorkel, and flippers.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served aboard. Menus are continental cuisine. At sunset, enjoy complimentary hors d'oeuvres and your favorite drink which you may purchase from a well stocked bar. The onboard naturalist will give a daily briefing covering the day's shore visit and a preview of the following day's landing.
Included in your cruise are 3 nights accommodations in Quito (double occupancy), a city tour of Quito on March 6th, domestic airfare: Quito-Baltra-Quito, local ship accommodations, all meals aboard, island sightseeing with a Naturalist Guide III (authorized by the Galapagos National Park), and transportation between the ship and the Baltra airport.
Not included are the National Park Tax (US$100/person), the Departure Tax (US$37.93/person), beverages, and gratuities. See Travelers' Resources for contact information and packing list suggestions.