View spectacular wildlife and exotic vegetation while cruising the Galapagos Islands on a catamaran or motorized yacht, a unique setting that’s changed little since Charles Darwin and his HMS Beagle crew explored the area over 150 years ago. Soak in the old-world charm of Quito, the capital city, with its golden cathedrals and cobblestone streets. Journey to the “Center of the World” and visit Fundación Guayasamín, dedicated to renowned sculptor and painter Oswaldo Guayasamín in the artist’s former hillside home.
Language
Spanish
Time Zone
Quito: GMT -5
Galapagos: GMT -6
Currency
U.S. Dollar (USD)
Average Temp
67° F
Galapagos Expedition
In the Wake of Darwin
Inspire Your Expedition with Our Sample Itinerary
Day 1 – GUAYAQUIL OR QUITO, ECUADOR
Arrive in Ecuador
Private transfer to hotel
Accommodations: Hotel Oro Verde Guayaquil or Wyndham Quito Airport
Day 2 – GUAYAQUIL OR QUITO / BALTRA / GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
Transfer to the airport for flight to Baltra
Board Galapagos luxury catamaran
May substitute motorized yacht or cruise ship.
Galapagos cruises include Wildlife viewing, Nature hikes, Panga (dinghy) rides & Snorkeling. Many offer Kayaking, Glass-bottom boat rides, Scuba diving & Paddleboarding.
- Santa Cruz Island – Black Turtle Cove
Accommodations: Alya Luxury Catamaran
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3 – GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
- Genovesa Island – Darwin Bay
- Genovesa Island – Barranco
Accommodations: Alya Luxury Catamaran
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 – GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
- Santiago Island – Sullivan Bay
- Bartholome Island – Bartholome
Accommodations: Alya Luxury Catamaran
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 – GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
- Santiago Island – Chinese Hat
- Mosquera Island – Mosquera
Accommodations: Alya Luxury Catamaran
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6 – GALAPAGOS ISLANDS / BALTRA / QUITO
- Santa Cruz Island – Charles Darwin Station
Transfer to airport for flight to Quito
Private transfer to hotel
Accommodations: Mama Cuchara by Art Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7 – QUITO / HOMEWARD BOUND
Full day private tour:
- Walking tour of the Colonial Center – Plaza Santo Domingo, La Ronda Street, San Francisco Plaza, La Compañía de Jesús Church
- Trip to the Equator – Intiñan Museum
- Fundación Guayasamín – artist Oswaldo Guayasamín’s home, studio & artwork, “The Chapel of Man”
Private transfer to airport for flight home
Meals: Breakfast
Starting at $6,200 per person
(two travelers, double occupancy, international airfare not included)
Itineraries are customized to travelers’ interests and preferences.
Final prices will vary based on dates of travel and number of travelers.
We never have a concern when we turn over our travel plans to NEI because we know they will always provide the best service there is.
Fran & Larry S.
Scottsdale, AZ
When to go:
Best times are from November to May
What to eat:
Llapingachos (stuffed potato patties), Locro de Papa (potato soup), Trucha (trout)
What to pack:
Long & short-sleeved shirts & t-shirts; trousers, jeans & shorts; waterproof jacket; layering & waterproof clothing; shawl or scarf; swimwear; wetsuit; comfortable walking, hiking & waterproof shoes; sunscreen, sunglasses, hat; insect repellent; camera equipment; universal adapter
