Ecuador - Galapagos Land & Sea Adventure - Austin Adventures
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Ecuador –
Galapagos Land & Sea
Adventure
Trip Summary
Hike, cycle, snorkel and swim in the most incredible locations you can imagine on our 10-day 'Tortuga'
Galapagos Land and Sea Adventure tour. Forget spending your entire trip on a boat and missing out
on the incredible culture and wildlife of the different islands. By joining this land-based tour, you'll
cruise between a multitude of stunning islands in our comfortable dive boat, the 'Pacific', while staying
on dry land each night. Starting with a short flight to San Cristobal Island, highlights of this incredible
trip include snorkeling with turtles, rays and tame reef sharks at Kicker Rock, kayaking in the beautifully
calm Isabela Bay and hiking up Sierra Negra volcano to witness one of the largest active calderas in
the world. You'll get up close to some of the most intriguing and docile wildlife on the planet, with visits
to tortoise breeding grounds and iguana colonies and even sharing the beach with curious sea lions.
We explore amazing lava tunnels, cycle through local townships and learn the mysterious history of
Floreana Island, all onboard our 'Tortuga' Galapagos Land and Sea Adventure tour.
Itinerary
Day 1: Quito
Your trip begins in Ecuador’s capital city, Quito. If you’re flying in early today, you’ll have a chance to
journey to the city from the airport (or your hotel) to explore the beautiful town squares, quaint cafés
and colonial architecture. Quito sits in a beautiful valley surrounded by towering volcanoes just 14
miles from the equator, giving it a mild, spring-like climate year-round. In the evening, you’ll meet your
trip leader and the rest of your group back at the joining hotel, for a full briefing and our first dinner
together. Overnight Hotel EB, Quito (D)
Day 2: San Cristobal Island
This morning we’ll take a short flight to San Cristobal, the easternmost island of the Galapagos Islands
chain and home of the provincial capital, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. After lunch, we’ll head to the town
of La Soledad to bike down through the lush highland cloud forest that blankets the top of the island.
With stunning views of the coast, we’ll ride to La Loberia, a beach that is home to a large sea lion
colony and nursery. This evening, we’ll dine on local produce and fresh fish. Overnight Casa Blanca
or Blue Marlin, San Cristobal (B, L, D)
Day 3: Kicker Rock
Today we’ll cruise to Kicker Rock off the coast of San Cristobal, where we’ll don wet suits, snorkels
and masks (and tanks for the divers – diving option add $250) and explore around the remains of an
underwater volcano with a rock face rising 500 feet above the surface of the water. Your trip leader
will give you a full briefing and then we’ll take to the water to explore the walls of the volcano. There
will be chances to see beautiful tropical fish, turtles and sharks as they skirt the edges of Kicker Rock!
Afterwards we’ll visit a picturesque bay to have lunch and a rest before returning to port. Then it’s off
to the interpretation center to learn a little about the history and biology of the islands. Later there will
be an optional hike to Frigate Hill Lookout to see the acrobatics of the local frigate birds as they dart
around the cliff tops stealing the catch from other birds. Overnight Casa Blanca or Blue Marlin, San
Cristobal (B, L)
1
SM
The toughest part is going home.Ecuador –
Galapagos Land & Sea
Adventure
Days 4: Floreana Island
After an early breakfast, our boat will take us away from San Cristobal Island towards the magnificent
Floreana Island. Floreana is the sixth largest island in the Galapagos chain and one of the least
inhabited (by humans at least!). With a population of around 120, this place has a pretty relaxed
atmosphere. On the way, we’re often visited by friendly dolphins, so keep an eye out! And later, we’ll
hike into the highlands of Floreana, where we’ll learn about the mysterious history of the islands as
we visit the pirate caves and the area where the first inhabitants once lived. Then it’s back down to
our accommodation in the tiny port of Puerto Velasco Ibarra – a fantastic hideaway lodge with
incredible sea views and a great sunset! Overnight Hotel Wittmer, Floreana Island (B, L, D)
Day 5: Isabela Island
This morning we’ll head to Isabela Island, the largest of all the islands in the Galapagos archipelago.
we’ll start with an early morning kayak in the calm waters of Isabela Bay. Here we’ll have the chance
to see some of the Island’s most amazing wildlife up close. Marine iguanas bask in the sun, blue-
footed boobies sit in pairs on the rock tops, and Sally Lightfoot crabs scurry out of our way along the
water’s edge. In the clear waters below us, rays gracefully swim by and turtles pop up for a breath of
air. Later, we’ll head to a Galapagos giant tortoise breeding center where we can meet these majestic
prehistoric creatures. Overnight at Hotel Albemarle, Isabela Island (B, L, D)
Day 6: Sierra Negra Volcano
Our hike today will take us to the summit of Sierra Negra volcano. See the lowland vegetation change
before your eyes as we ascend through a lunar-like landscape on our way to the top. It’s a challenging
hike to the top of the volcano, and the views across the seven-mile-wide crater and surrounding
coastline are well worth the climb! This is one of the largest volcanic calderas in the world, and one of
the most active. As we hike, we might be lucky enough to see Galapagos hawks, short-eared owls,
finches and fly-catchers that inhabit this region. Overnight at Hotel Albemarle, Isabela Island (B, L)
Optional: Snorkel Los Tuneles
An alternative option today is to get back in the water, to snorkel one of the gems of the Galapagos
archipelago; Los Tuneles. We’ll take a boat ride to the tunnels, where you’ll see an intricate network
of arches and islets all formed from past lava eruptions. There are a few spots to walk on the rocks,
though the main activity is snorkeling to explore the water channels, where you’ll see sleeping reef
sharks, hungry sea turtles, colorful starfish and tiny seahorses! In terms of biodiversity, this is one of
the very best spots in the Galapagos Islands.
Day 7: Tintoreras
Today we’ll head out on small local boats to check out the crystal-clear waters of the Tintoreras rock
outcrop. Keep an eye out for rays, marine iguanas, reef sharks, herons and the Galapagos penguin –
the only penguins found close to the equator. Later, we’ll don our snorkels and masks again to explore
the clear waters of this great snorkeling area. This calm and shallow body of water is home to sea
turtles, and a multitude of colorful fish species. You’ll have this afternoon to find a hammock on the
beach and relax, or explore on your own. Overnight at Hotel Albemarle, Isabela Island (B, L, D)
2
The toughest part is going home.SMEcuador –
Galapagos Land & Sea
Adventure
Day 8: Santa Cruz Island / Tortuga Bay
We’ll depart Isabela Island early this morning bound for Santa Cruz Island, where we’ll hike into the
amazing cloud forest highlands. Once there, we’ll have our only chance to see giant tortoises in their
natural environment, along with intriguing birdlife like the vermillion flycatcher, and we’ll take a look
inside the lava tunnels scattered throughout the highlands. These tunnels were formed by molten lava
flowing beneath the surface, which left behind large tube-like caves, some almost a mile long! This
afternoon we’ll visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn about the breeding programs that
are saving vulnerable species of tortoises and land iguanas. Also there will be a chance to see different
types of carapace that help differentiate the tortoise species. Overnight at Palo Santo Galapagos
Hotel, Santa Cruz Island (B, L, D)
Day 9: Los Gemelos / Quito
This morning we’ll visit Los Gemelos on the Island; twin craters that are sink holes created when the
volcanic roof of empty magma chambers collapsed from tectonic shifts and erosion over time. This
area has a very different climate from other parts of the island and is surrounded by scalesia (scalesia
pedunculata) forests, or “broccoli trees”. It is also the habitat for bromeliads, orchids, mosses, lichens
and many birds such as the 8 species of Charles Darwin finches. Afterwards, we’ll take a short flight
back to Quito on the mainland. This evening, we’ll share our final celebratory dinner together in
Ecuador. Overnight at Hotel EB, Quito (B, L, D)
Day 10: Quito
Today is the last day of your ‘Tortuga’ trip. We’ll make sure you return home relaxed and refreshed
from all the great activities, fine food and friendly people you will have met while travelling with us in
the Galapagos Islands. See the itinerary for the ‘Tapir & Tortuga’ trip if you want to take a few more
days to see more of mainland Ecuador as well. No overnight (B)
**Trip itineraries are subject to change without notice due to road, weather, ocean and other factors
outside of our control, for the safety and enjoyment of our guests, as deemed necessary and
appropriate by Austin Adventures.
3
SM
The toughest part is going home.Ecuador –
Galapagos Land & Sea
Adventure
Activities
Hiking – 1 to 10 miles per hike, easy to challenging terrain.
Boating – 2 to 3 hours per boating day
Snorkeling – Equipment provided; no experience necessary.
Discovery – The rugged volcanic landscape of the Galápagos Islands offers truly exceptional
encounters with wildlife. Venture out each day with a skilled naturalist by boat, foot, or snorkel to
witness an astounding variety of exotic creatures that have never learned to fear human contact. Your
guides will also share with you the history of the pirates, whalers and early settlers who took refuge
on the islands of the Galápagos. Discover a land created by volcanic activity where lava fields still
dominate the landscape, ash pockets remain untouched, and black sand covers many beaches. Did
you know that with over 560 native species, the Galapagos has over 180 endemic species, found
nowhere else on the planet? Discover the differences between the diverse and unique ecosystems on
and between the Islands. Learn to tell apart the land iguana and the less colorful, but equally
impressive marine iguana. Listen to stories of Charles Darwin and the infamous Darwin finches whose
evolutionary discoveries led to many present-day scientific theories. Seek out the incredibly vibrant
marine life of the Islands, keeping a watchful eye out for sharks, sea lions, starfish, turtles, and a wide
array of colorful fish. Find out just how blue a blue-footed booby’s feet really are! Come explore the
Galapagos Islands with the experts in adventure travel!
Our guides are experienced facilitators and regional experts. They will take the time to explain the
details of each activity, answer any questions and demonstrate the use of all equipment. Each activity
has been carefully planned to include options for all levels.
4
The toughest part is going home.SMEcuador –
Galapagos Land & Sea
Adventure
Distinctive Accommodation
Nights 1 & 9: Hotel EB, Quito
A stunningly modern accommodation, this hotel offers all the contemporary amenities and more for
visitors. An outdoor swimming pool provides a place for true relaxation and enjoyment of the sunshine.
Indoors, you’ll find stylishly decorated rooms stocked with luxury linens, adjustable comfort sleep
system beds, flat screen TVs and wifi.
Nights 2-3: Casa Blanca or Blue Marlin, San Cristobal
Family-owned and operated, Casa Blanca is an artist’s paradise with its colorful Mission Revival-style
architecture and uniquely themed rooms. Every room is decorated and named, not numbered, to offer
a personal touch for each visitor’s stay. TV, wifi, and air conditioning is provided at this
accommodation.
The Blue Marlin Hotel offers spacious, colorful rooms with private entryways to a community outdoor
patio for sunbathing and access to the pool. This accommodation is located in the heart of Puerto
Baquerizo Moreno, the capital of the Galapagos, not far from the shoreline.
Night 4: Hotel Wittmer, Floreana Island
The Hotel Wittmer has spacious and comfortable rooms with a sea view, equipped for relaxation and
feeling at home. Each of the rooms are equipped with private bathrooms and hot water. Large windows
provide excellent lighting and a beautiful ocean view. Wittmer Hotel is located in Beach Black, Floreana
Island. It was founded by Margret Wittmer, who was one of the authors of the book "Floreana".
Distinguished for its warm hospitality, facilities and unique service.
Nights 5-7: Hotel Albemarle, Isabela Island
Relax in pristine peace at this accommodation, where white sandy beaches lie just outside your
window. This hotel was voted as one of the top 25 hotels in Ecuador in 2018 by TripAdvisor and
provides a fresh water swimming pool, wifi, air conditioning, sun terraces for lounging, and high-ceiling
rooms with stylish beachy auras.
Night 8: Palo Santo Galapagos Hotel, Santa Cruz Island
Enjoy contemporary relaxation in style at this multi-level hotel that offers private pool-side
windows and balconies. Rooms are complete with modern, comfortable amenities. Find
rejuvenation at this fully-serviced hotel.
Meals
The hallmark of an Austin Adventures vacation is our exceptional dining. Meals are as included as
indicated in the daily itinerary. (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner). Alcoholic beverages and related
gratuities are not included in the trip price.
5
SM
The toughest part is going home.Ecuador –
Galapagos Land & Sea
Adventure
Arrivals and Departures
Please arrive in Quito no later than the evening prior to your trip (we recommend arriving a minimum
of two nights to allow for potential flight delays and misconnection). You will fly from Quito or Guayaquil
to the Galapagos Islands, arriving between 11:30 am and 1:30 pm to San Cristobal airport, depending
on your flight schedule. Upon arrival at San Cristobal airport, you will be greeted and escorted by a
Neotropic Expeditions representative. Your trip ends with a drop-off at the Baltra airport, on time for
your flight back to the mainland. From Quito or Guayaquil, you can make your post trip connections.
Trip Price
$5,599
Trip Length
10 days / 9 nights
2021 Dates
Sept. 17-26, 2021
Oct. 15-24, 2021
Oct. 29-Nov. 7, 2021
Nov. 12-21, 2021
Nov. 26-Dec. 5, 2021
Dec. 10-19, 2021
Dec. 17-26, 2021
Dec. 20-29, 2021
Dec. 24, 2021-Jan. 2, 2022
Host City
Quito, Ecuador – Airport Code: UIO
Reservations & Availability
1.800.575.1540
6
The toughest part is going home.SMEcuador –
Galapagos Land & Sea
Adventure
Trip Reservations
Reservations, Deposits and Balances Due
To make a reservation, contact Austin Adventures with your choice of trip and dates. A 20% deposit
is required to confirm your reservation. Some Custom and Holiday programs may require
additional deposits. Full payment is required at the time of booking if your trip departs within 90 days.
Choose one of the following contact methods:
Toll free: 800-575-1540
Phone: 406-655-4591
Online: austinadventures.com
Email: reservations@austinadventures.com
Mail: Austin Adventures, P.O. Box 81025, Billings, MT 59108
* You may also book your Austin Adventure with your preferred travel professional.
** We accept most major credit cards and personal checks (U.S. funds made payable to Austin
Adventures). Please do not send cash.
Included in the Trip Price
• All guiding services. We have an experienced trip leader with every trip and also have a specialist guide
on many of the activities to provide extra local knowledge.
• Comfortable accommodation for the entire trip. We can also organize pre- and post-trip accommodation
for you if you let us know.
• All meals, as indicated.
• All drinking water and puritabs where drinking water isn’t readily available. (Alcohol and other drinks are
not included)
• All activities as described in the itinerary – such as hiking, snorkeling, canoeing, sea kayaking, biking and
jungle boat tours – and you’re welcome to sit out or do your own thing from time to time.
• Tips for local specialist guides
• Transport including buses, boats, trains and domestic flights as indicated.
Not Included in the Trip Price
• Guide gratuities.
• Optional activities as noted.
• A couple meals as listed in itinerary.
• Alcoholic beverages.
• Pre-and post-trip accommodations and associated expenses.
• Air and land transportation to/from host cities.
• All types of personal insurance.
• Personal expenses.
Pre-departure Information
After receiving your reservation and deposit, we’ll send you a pre-trip planner with general information about
the area you’ll be visiting, a packing list, exercise guidelines, a guest information questionnaire and a liability
release agreement for you to sign and return within 10 days.
7
SM
The toughest part is going home.Ecuador –
Galapagos Land & Sea
Adventure
Room Occupancy, Single Supplements, and Shared Room Assignments
All trip prices are based on double occupancy. Single rooms are available for an additional charge,
referred to as a “single supplement.” If you’re traveling alone and wish to share a room, make the
request at the time of booking. Austin Adventures will attempt to find a suitable roommate for you. If
you book 90 days before the trip and we cannot find you a suitable roommate, we will take care of the
single supplement. *some restrictions may apply
Minimum Age
Family Adventures are suitable for children seven years old and up (six years and older for our Costa
Rica and Yellowstone Family Adventures). Children who share a room with one or more adults receive
reduced rates. The minimum age on our non-family designated adult and teen adventures is sixteen
years old.
Cancelations and Refunds
The following cancellation policies and cancellation fees are in effect:
***As with deposits on some international and custom programs, refund schedule may vary, speak
with your Adventure Consultant for details.
Cancellation 90 days or more before trip departure – Full trip payment refunded less a $300 per
person administration fee
Cancellation 60-89 days before trip departure – Full trip payment less 20% is refunded
Cancellation 45-59 days before trip departure – Full trip payment less 50% is refunded
Cancellation 30-44 days before trip departure – Full trip payment less 75% is refunded
Cancellation 0-29 days before trip departure – No refund is given
Our Guarantee
Exceeding your expectations is our number one priority. In the unlikely event that you are dissatisfied
with something during your trip, immediately notify your guide(s). If he or she is unable to resolve the
issue, call our main office and give us the details of the problem, and a chance to correct it. We will do
our best to find a resolution. If we are unable to do so during your trip, we will work with you upon your
return home to arrive at a fair and equitable solution, including up to a full refund.
8
The toughest part is going home.SMYou can also read
