Ecuador, a country rich in biodiversity and culture, offers a remarkable array of natural wonders and historical treasures. From the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes to the unique ecosystems of the Galápagos Islands, Ecuador captivates travelers with its stunning beauty and vibrant heritage.
WWT22280
Quito
Transfer in Quito. Transportation from Airport to hotel.
After breakfast, shuttle service by the hotel to the airport to take flight to Galapagos.
FLIGHT EXCLUDED.
Arrival in Galapagos, English speaking assistance.
Today we arrive on Baltra Island, the gateway to the Galapagos. This tiny island was a military base during the Second World War and hosts the Island principal airport. The airport was built using the most advanced environmental techniques to reduce emissions energy use, some of which you will notice as you transit through the facility. It was the first ecological airport in the world. Flight to Santa Cruz Island.
HIGHLAND SANTA CRUZ
The guide will pick up at the airport in order to start the visit to the highlands. You will visit shelters for the giant tortoises, lava tunnels and the twins that are geological formations formed by collapse over time. One of our visits is a private farm that provides the opportunity to marvel at the celebrated Giant Galapagos Tortoise roaming in its natural habitat. You will have the option to visit geological formations like a natural lava tunnel or twin pit crater “The Gemelos”or both, depending on your energy level! The “Gemelos” or Twin Pit Craters, located in the Scalezia zone of the island, are a great place for bird watching. Look out for Darwin Finches, Galapagos Doves and Cattle egret.
Drive to Puerto Ayora for overnight.
** NOT INCLUDE: GALAPAGOS NATIONAL PARK ENTRANCE FEE AND TOURIST TRANSIT CARD **
Included: transportation, Bilingual (Spanish/English) local speaking guide, excursion and lodging
Breakfast.
Half-day excursion to Bay Exploration (SIB – shared service)
This morning, we will join a Puerto Ayora’s Bay exploration, at the main dock we will have a quick 10-minute navigation to la Loberia Island named after a sea lion colony that inhabits there. This small island is a great place to snorkel in amongst sea turtles and a great variety of colorful fish, and for playing with the ever friendly and inquisitive sea lions.
Our next stop will be a hike to the Túnel del Amor (lover’s tunnel) with a great viewpoint from where if lucky you can watch resting white-tip sharks. On the way back we will visit Punta Estrada’s dock, where we’ll go on a walk to watch marine iguanas.
Optional full day experience with extra cost:
Visit to Cerro Meza & Kayak at Garrapatero (This tour replaces the Bay Exploration. Minimum 2 passengers).
Included: local guide, transportation and lodging
FULL DAY MOTOR YACHT TOUR WITH A LOCAL GALAPAGUENO set out to sea with an ex-fisherman, his welcoming crew and a knowledgeable naturalist guide for a full day excursion to experience the waters near one of the Galapagos more remote islands. Recent history has transformed the Galapagos Island, reshaping the local economy from one of subsistence fishing and small-scale agriculture to one where tourism employs some 40% of locals. We have worked with local fishermen to transform their careers from harvesting sea life to introducing the Galapagos rich marine ecosystem to visitors while also helping to preserve them. Their livings are now made from sustainable tourism rather than fishing.
This day full excursion includes snorkeling and swimming opportunities.
** These excursions are subject to change without prior notification **
Included: Transportation, Bilingual (Spanish/English) local speaking guide, excursion and lodging
After breakfast, transfer to Baltra’s airport to take flight back to mainland.
Arrival at Guayaquil / Quito and international connection (or extension to your next adventure).
Included: Transportation, Bilingual (Spanish/English) speaking assistance
