Highlights Explore the Galapagos Islands with an expert Naturalist guide, learn about the unique and diverse ecosystems of the archipelago, experience unparalleled wildlife viewing and encounters

Galapagos Islands Cruise


Galapagos Islands Cruise - SEV10QDA

Last Updated: March 7, 2012
10 days: Ecuador
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What's Included

Welcome gift - 7 nights in the Galapagos Islands with daily excursions and wildlife viewing - Visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station - Daily opportunities for swimming and snorkeling - Flights to and from the Galapagos Islands - Snorkeling equipment and wetsuit onboard the Galapagos catamaran

The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and G Adventures. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.

VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.

Validity: Valid for all trips departing January 1, 2012 - December 31st 2012.


Trip Style

Discovery Adventures: Bring to life the awe-inspiring destinations featured on the Discovery Channel. Engage colourful cultures, wildlife and landscapes through exhilarating, educational and immersive activities and arrive at a greater understanding of our incredible planet.

Service Level

Comfort:


  • All the adventure with a softer landing
  • Upgraded transportation (private vehicles, trains and planes)
  • More inclusions (transfers, more meals and activities are generally included)
  • Hand-picked accommodations with additional amenities and services

Physical Grading

2: Light walking and hiking that is suitable for most fitness levels.

Itinerary

Route map for Galapagos Islands Cruise (SEV10QDA)

Day 1 Arrive Quito

Arrive in Quito at any time, and transfer to the hotel. There are no planned activities, so check in and enjoy the city. A Discovery Adventures representative will hold a briefing at the hotel to review the various aspects of the tour. If you are not able to attend this welcome meeting, our representative will leave all important information at your hotel’s reception, indicating what time to be ready on Day 2 of our trip. If there is any confusion on arrival, please do not hesitate to call the contact number listed in these trip details.

Located 9,348 ft (2,850 m) above sea level, the Ecuadorian capital of Quito enjoys a wonderful spring-like climate, despite the fact that it is only 14 miles (22 km) south of the Equator. Nestled in a valley flanked by mountains, on a clear day several snow-capped volcanoes, including nearby Pichincha, are visible from the city center. Add to its beautiful location a rich history and well-preserved colonial district, and you begin to understand Quito’s appeal to thousands of tourists every year.

In 1978, UNESCO declared Quito a World Heritage site, and any new development in Quito's old town is now strictly controlled. Life in Quito tends to be peaceful, though the drivers are fond of using their car horns! There are approximately 2 million inhabitants in the metropolitan area, but the pace is relaxed and the residents hospitable.

Since pre-Columbian times, the site of Quito has been inhabited by the Quitus, the Shyris and the Puruhas. The Inca reached this city before the Spaniards, but leveled it to the ground rather than give it up to the Spanish. The present capital was founded by the Spanish on December 6, 1534. Quito is separated into two basic sections, the old and the new cities. The old city is full of historic buildings and churches. One of the more noteworthy is the Catedral de Quito, located on the Plaza de la Independencia. Built between 1550 and 1562, it was one of the first neoclassical works in Quito. La Compañía de Jésus Church is considered one of the most beautiful in the Americas. The decorations in the Compañía contain approximately one and one-half tons of gold, and construction of the church took 170 years (1605-1775).

There are several excellent museums scattered throughout the city. The Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana has an interesting display of traditional musical instruments and Ecuadorian traditional dress, a large art collection, and a small natural history museum. For archeology, the best museum to visit is the Museo del Banco Central with its well displayed pottery, gold ornaments, skulls showing deformities and early surgical methods, a mummy and many other objects of interest. The small, rounded hill dominating the old town is El Panecillo, the Little Bread Loaf, a major Quito landmark. From here there are marvelous panoramic views of the entire city and surrounding volcanoes. Tourists can easily take a trolley (streetcar) or a cab between the Old Town and New Town.

Quito’s large foreign population and steady stream of travelers have given it a varied and vibrant nightlife, and salsotecas and other dance clubs abound. For a real Ecuadorian experience though, be sure and drop by a peña if you can; these are great places for meeting locals and dancing, as well as enjoying local cuisine.

Just a few hours south of Quito is Parque National Cotopaxi, home to Cotopaxi Volcano at 19,342 ft (5897 m). The beautiful cone-shaped, snow covered volcano is Ecuador’s second highest peak and the highest active volcano in the world. This is a great spot for day hiking up to the refuge on the glacier’s edge or mountain biking (downhill all the way). True enthusiasts attempt the climb to the summit on an overnight excursion. Allow yourself an extra day or two in Quito, before or after your trip, if you want to conquer Cotopaxi.

Warning: Please take care when wandering about the city on your own, as pickpockets and purse-snatchers are common, particularly in the Old Town. Be safe and leave your passport, credit cards, traveler’s checks and cash you don’t need in the hotel’s safety deposit box. Most Quiteños are honest and genuinely helpful and friendly, but be safe and enjoy the city!

Day 2 Baltra/ Black Turtle Cove (B, L, D)

We rise early to catch our flight to Baltra, in the Galapagos Islands. Upon arrival, the group will be met by our expert naturalist guide who will assist with the transfer to our catamaran, to settle in and prepare for the journey ahead. After lunch and a briefing from our naturalist, we embark on our first excursion to visit Black Turtle Cove, an area of small mangrove surrounded inlets where we can view various bird and marine life which may include: herons, pelicans, mustard rays, white tipped sharks and marine turtles.

The Galapagos Islands are located about 620 miles (1,000 km) off the Pacific coast of South America. The archipelago is comprised of 13 major islands and scores of islets that served as a living laboratory for Charles Darwin, the renowned evolution theorist. Long before Darwin arrived in the Galapagos, seafarers knew these isolated islands as home to some of the strangest and most wonderful wildlife imaginable, including birds that could swim but no longer fly, aquatic iguanas, dragon-like lizards left over from prehistoric times, and the giant Galapagos tortoises for which the islands were named.

Covering nearly 3,100 square miles (5000 square km), the Galapagos Islands are now a National Park. The Galapagos National Park is the institution that controls the preservation of this environment, and is assisted by the Charles Darwin Research Station. This research station, inaugurated in 1964 and based in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island, is the scientific institution that helps the Galapagos National Park with the preservation of the Islands. The station is the one place where visitors can easily see the famous Galapagos tortoises which may live up to two hundred years. This is also the training center for naturalist guides who accompany all visitors landing at more than 40 approved sites on the islands, and members of the international scientific community often come to study at the station.

The National Park charges a visitor fee of $100 USD, payable on arrival, which funds park maintenance and supervision in the Galapagos, as well as ecological study, conservation and infrastructure development in Ecuador's other National Parks. Entry fees and the funds they generate for the National Park System are among measures taken by the Ecuadorian government to protect its natural heritage.

Day 3 Floreana (B, L, D)

This morning, we explore Post Office Bay, on Floreana Island. The history of Floreana Island, also called Charles, has gradually evolved to reach near mythic proportions. The story begins when a baroness and her two lovers, a German doctor and his mistress, and a German couple and their young son all came to settle on this land. Their dalliances and disasters were chronicled in John Treherne’s book The Galapagos Affair. Descendants of the German family, the Wittmers, still live on the island in the small community of Puerto Velasco Ibarra. Mrs. Margaret Wittmer has also written a book entitled Floreana, which can be purchased at the airport in Baltra or at a local bookstore.

Post Office Bay has an older and less mysterious history. A barrel was placed here in the late 18th century by English whaling vessels to be used as a post office. Passing ships would stop to leave mail for loved ones, collecting at the same time any mail destined for ports on their itineraries. Today the box is used mainly by tourists, who may drop off and pick up unstamped letters to be carried to far destinations. The remains of a Norwegian canning factory are the only evidence of the Island’s history prior to its designation as a protected area. A short hike up past the post barrel takes us to an interesting lava cave. With the aid of a flashlight, we can descend about 262 ft (80 m) to the point where the sea enters the cave.

Later in the afternoon, we continue to Punta Cormorant on the northern part of Floreana. The landing is on a beach of green sand, colored by olivine crystals, volcanic-derived silicates of magnesium and iron. From the beach, we hike to a lake normally inhabited by flamingos and other shore birds. We continue to a beach of fine white sand particles known as Flour Beach, an important nesting site for turtles. Around the point, Devil's Crown derives its name from the broken remains of a partially submerged volcanic cone. This is a perfect spot to go snorkeling from the boat, as the waters are home to a multitude of colorful fish and sea lions. Please make sure you are a comfortable swimmer, as the water here can be rough and the currents very strong.

Day 4 Española (B, L, D)

Early this morning, we arrive at Española Island, also called Hood Island, the southernmost island of the Galapagos. We explore Garner Bay, an excellent swimming and snorkeling site where we could find ourselves swimming with sea lions or even reef sharks. We continue in the afternoon to Punta Suarez on the western side of Española Island, where views are spectacular: gargantuan waves break on jagged cliffs and large bird colonies thickly populate the interior of the island. There is a distinct feel of desolate wilderness here. The waved albatross is seen here from April to December during its mating/nesting season. This bird leaves land between January and March each year to make its annual odyssey far out to sea. Amazingly, Española is the nesting site to virtually the entire world population of this species, with more than 12,000 pairs residing here. Large numbers of masked and blue-footed boobies are also found here. Red-billed tropic birds dash madly through the air and both marine iguanas and sea lions are common. A huge blowhole, where the surf is forced through a natural rock formation spouting seawater 49 to 66 ft (15 to 20 m) into the air, adds to the island’s impression of untamed beauty.

During our hike, we follow the trail through a rookery and our naturalist tells us the geological history of the island, including its dramatic volcanic features, climate, flora and fauna.

Day 5 Santa Cruz (B, L, D)

In the morning, we arrive back to port in Puerta Ayora, on Santa Cruz Island where we visit the renowned Charles Darwin Research Station.

Santa Cruz is the second largest island in the archipelago and has the largest population, with Puerto Ayora as its main town. It also boasts the most varied of the islands’ vegetation zones: coastal, transition, scalesia, miconia and pampa. The Charles Darwin Research Station is a 10 minute walk from the center of town. Here, an exhibition displays photos of recent volcanic eruptions, charts outlining geological formations and drawings of the evolutionary development of endemic species. A corral houses adult Galapagos tortoises and a nursery cares for young tortoises until they are about three years old, when their shells have hardened enough to resist attack from wild dogs.

In the afternoon, we may have the opportunity to visit the highlands and see giant land tortoises in the wild.

Day 6 Dragon Hill/ Rabida (B, L, D)

This morning, we visit Dragon Hill, then make our way to Rabida Island (also called Jervis Island) where our boat lands on Rabida’s red sand beach. We take a short hike along the trail leading to a salt water lagoon, often home to wading flamingos. We continue along another trail past the lagoon into the interior, where the revered palo santo trees grow. When burned, the branches of this tree give off a pleasing aroma and ward off mosquitoes. Walking back to the beach we search among low-lying bushes for the nests of the prehistoric-looking pelicans. This is the best area for close viewing of these nesting birds, and it's a rare treat to watch parent pelicans return with gullets full of fish for the squawking youngsters.

Day 7 Sullivan Bay/ Bartolomé (B, L, D)

In the morning, visit Sullivan Bay on Santiago Island to explore the huge black lava flows that are a century old. Walking along the lava trail we view various volcanic formations including; lava bubbles and pahoehoe, a real treat for those interested in geology and earth sciences.

Afterward, continue to Bartolomé Island (also called Bartholomew). We take a hike up to the summit of the island to get a clearer perspective of the not-too-distant volcanic origins of this area. The panoramic view from here is one of the best among the islands and a favorite spot for group pictures. From here, we can view the double-sided beach of Bartolomé directly below, the volcanic tower rising out of the water next to it, and Santiago in the distance. After the summit hike, we stop at the beach to relax in semi-tropical tranquility. Here, we find fantastic snorkeling among the submerged volcanic rock and around the base of the tower. A short hike to the beach on the opposite side is also worth the minimal effort. It is not unusual to see sharks in these shallow waters, and marine turtles nest here from January through March.

Day 8 South Plazas/ Santa Fé (B, L, D)

This morning we visit South Plazas Island, famous for its unusual cactus forest. There is only one place to land, but two different trails offer varied experiences. The shorter of the two hikes leads from the beach into a sparse forest of prickly pear cactus. The second, longer trail goes up a cliff side into an area inhabited by land iguanas. The interior terrain of the island is interesting, with a good panoramic view from the cliff top. Back on the beach, it is easy to sit for hours just watching the antics of the sociable sea lions.

In the afternoon, we continue to Santa Fé Island, also called Barrington, which is well-known as a great place for observing and swimming with sea lions.

Day 9 Seymour Island / Quito (B)

This morning we make a brief visit to North Seymour for one last look at frigate birds, blue-footed boobies and sea lions.

Bird life abounds on Seymour Island, probably the most exciting island photographically. Close to the trail you will find many nesting pairs and young chicks. Seymour is also home to the Galapagos’s largest colony of Magnificent Frigate Birds. Their mating ritual is an ostentatious display: males expand the red sack at the base of their throat and perch atop a bush with wings fully extended, flapping furiously. Interested females circle overhead, and if so inclined, may join the male on terra firma. Further along the trail we can observe a colony of sea lions.

Following this we sail to Baltra and transfer to the airport for our flight back to Quito. Transfer to our group hotel upon arrival and the rest of the day is at leisure.

Day 10 Depart Quito (B)

Depart Quito at any time.


Important Notes

1. Discovery Adventures is operated in conjunction with G Adventures, the world leader in sustainable adventure travel. An award winning company with over 800 employees and 17 operational offices worldwide, G Adventures has 20 years experience in creating culturally interactive travel experiences. G Adventures advocates a triple bottom line business philosophy where equal attention is given to the environmental, social and economic impact of tourism to achieve long-term environmentally responsible growth whilst protecting destinations & cultural heritage for future generations.

2. Discovery Adventures requires your passport number, full name and date of birth at the time of booking. Please make sure you give this information to your travel agent.

3. Once you have confirmed your booking please give us your international flight details and advise us if you have any important issues such as allergies, special diets, etc.

4. The Ecuadorian government currently levies a Galapagos Islands Park entry fee of $100 USD per person. This is payable at the airport upon arrival in the park. It is not included in the cost of the tour, and must be paid in CASH. This fee funds Park maintenance and supervision in Galapagos, as well as ecological study, conservation and infrastructure development in Ecuador's other National Parks. Entry fees and the funds they generate for the National Park System are among measures taken by the Ecuadorian government to protect its natural heritage.

5. The Galapagos National Park authorities have implemented a system of Transit Control Cards at a fee of $10 USD per person. This card is to be purchased in CASH at a counter in the Quito airport before boarding the flight to the Galapagos. Please retain this card along with your passport as you will be required to present this upon arrival to the Galapagos Islands. Please note that this applies to all tourists entering the Galapagos Islands and is a supplement to the existing entry fee to the National Park and is not controlled by tour operators or travel agencies. It is the first of a number of initiatives to track, control and maintain the sustainable tourism targets set out by the Galapagos National Park and the Ecuadorian government in an attempt to preserve the fragile environment of the archipelago.

6. Please note that the rooming on our Galapagos yachts is done on a first-come, first-serve basis, and we are not able to guarantee the specific cabin you will receive on board. The cabins are comfortable and clean, all with private bathrooms. Due to the specific location of the cabins on board, the window sizes vary as well as the noise at times when the boat is navigating, given the proximity of the cabin to the engine room. Our friendly and competent crew will ensure the smooth and comfortable journey for the duration of your tour.


7. Please note that this tour combines with other Discovery Adventures tours. As such, the staff and some travel companions on your tour may have previously been traveling together with Discovery Adventures, prior to Day 1 of your tour. Likewise, some staff and travel companions may be continuing together on another Discovery Adventures tour, after your trip concludes.

Accommodation

Comfort hotel (2nts), your choice while on board the catamaran of Deluxe cabins with private balcony (both twin share and double available), a Suite (double) and Standard twin share cabins (7 nts).

About Accommodation

The accommodation level for most Discovery Adventure tours are comfortable, in mid-range hotels, motels, lodges, guest houses, etc. You'll often enjoy air-conditioned rooms, complete with en suite bathrooms and some amenities. Accommodation and amenities can vary by Country and region and please remember that standards can be different from what you are used to in your home country, which is part of the appeal of adventure travel. Some trips may include camping, permanent tented camps or more rustic lodges, depending on the remoteness of where you are visiting. Please see your trip details for more information, specific to your tour. Porterage is not included, but can be arranged directly at most hotels.

My Own Room

Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops on tour.

Transport

Local flight, First class Catamaran, Van, Zodiacs, Public bus, Walking

Group Size Notes

Max 16, Avg 12

Local Flights

All local flights are included in the cost of your tour unless otherwise noted. It is important that we have your passport information at the time of booking in order to process these tickets. Internal flight tickets are issued locally and will be given to you prior to the flight departure.

Meals Included

9 Breakfasts, 7 Lunches, 7 Dinners

Meals

Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with Discovery Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your group leader will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. On our Galapagos yachts, food is included, plentiful and made of fresh local ingredients. The above information applies to Discovery Adventures group trips. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.

Group Leader Description

Your Discovery Adventures group trip is met in Quito by a Discovery Adventures representative. The aim of the representative is to give you the required information for the rest of your journey and to assist with changing money, restaurant and excursion suggestions and general information about the city. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds. For your shipboard voyage we have a highly experienced shipboard staff and crew, including a local naturalist guide in the Galapagos (certified by the Galapagos National Park).

Joining Hotel

Hotel Hilton Colon
Avenida Amazonas N19-14 y Avenida Patria
Quito, Ecuador
Tel: (593-2) 2560-666

Joining Instructions

An arrival transfer is included in the cost of your tour and our driver will be waiting for you with a Discovery Adventures Sign with your name on it.

Your Discovery Adventures Representative will contact you at the hotel on Day 1 and make sure you are settled comfortably. If you arrive late, s/he will leave you a message detailing what time and where you should meet the next morning. Your Discovery Adventures Representative will organize a short meeting soon after arrival, during which you will meet other tour participants and receive information about general and specific aspects of the trip.

Arrival Complications

We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your trip leader (if you are not on a group tour please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier). If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to our emergency contact details. If you have pre-booked an airport transfer and have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.

Finishing Point Hotel

Quito
Hotel Le Parc
República de El Salvador N34-349 e Irlanda
Quito, Ecuador
Tel: Int. Dailing Code + (593-2)2276800

What to Take

Life aboard the yacht is very informal, making casual, comfortable clothing a must. Each cabin contains ample closet space, however you may choose to leave any unnecessary articles in your joining hotel storage room. Porters are not often available, so be prepared to carry your own bags.

Also note that beach towels are provided for your convenience on board.

Please note that Galapagos is a protected National Park so your luggage will be checked before arrival and departure to and from the islands. Don’t bring with you any food, seeds or other organic material that could affect the delicate ecosystem of the islands.

Please do not bring any alcoholic beverages aboard, as your boat has a bar offering a variety of alcoholic drinks and prices are reasonable.

Emergency Contact

Should you need to contact G Adventures during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call our local office in Quito. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so we
may return your call and assist you as soon as possible.

G Adventures Quito, Ecuador
Mariscal Foch 899 y Cordero
Quito, Ecuador
Tel: Int. Dialing Code + (593 2) 223-0791,(593 2) 223-6641, (593 2) 254-3183
Cell Phone (24 hours): Int. Dialing Code + (593 9) 9 506 000 (outside Ecuador), (09) 9 506 000 (in Ecuador)

If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office in Quito, we have a toll-free line for North America, which will connect you directly with our Toronto office. In the event that you cannot get through, you can reach a member of our Operations department at the mobile number below.

Toll-free, North America only: 1 800 465 5600.
Calls from UK: 0844 410 1030
Calls from Australia: 1 300 796 618
Outside North America, Australia and the UK: +1 416 260 0999

Checklist

- Passport (with photocopies)
- Travel insurance (with photocopies)
- Airline tickets (with photocopies)
- USD cash
- Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
- Discovery Adventures vouchers and trip details
- Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
- Camera
- Playing cards or other favorite games
- Reading/writing material
- Binoculars.
- Fleece top
- Windproof/waterproof jacket
- Swim wear
- 4 shirts/t-shirts
- Sun hat
- hand sanitizers/ antibacterial wipes
- 2 pair of shorts
- 2 pairs of long trousers (one pair should be comfortable to walk in)
- Sunblock
- Insect repellent
- Sunglasses
- Toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, hand lotion and soap are provided onboard)
- Watch or alarm clock
- Walking shoes and sport sandals for excursions
- Soft-soled shoes to wear on the boat
- First-aid kit (should contain motion sickness medication, lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, re-hydration powder, and extra prescription drugs you may be taking).

Laundry

Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.

Visas

All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). Contact your local embassy, or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent. IT'S YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO HAVE THE CORRECT TRAVEL DOCUMENTATION.

Money Exchange

Credit cards and debit cards are very useful for cash advances. Visa cards are the most widely accepted cards. While ATMs are widely available some may not accept all international credit or debit cards. You may need to try at more than one machine if the first does not accept your card. You should also check with your bank before leaving to ensure that your card works internationally. You should be aware that to purchase products or services on a credit card a fee of 5%-10% usually applies. Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money. A combination of US dollar cash and cards is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds. Please bring USD banknotes in denominations smaller than 100, as they can be hard to exchange in Ecuador. 100 dollar bills of certain series (e.g. CB B2) can be especially hard to cash! CURRENCY EXCHANGE TIP: Please be advised that slightly torn notes, notes that have been heavily marked or are faded may be difficult to exchange. It is best to bring notes in fairly good condition, in denominations lower than $100 USD (or equivalent). As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com

Emergency Fund

Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!

Tipping

Onboard the Galapagos Superior Class catamaran, tipping the Naturalist guide and boat crew is customary. There will be two envelopes presented at the end of the voyage, one for the guide and one for crew members. The recommended amount is $20-25 USD per day from each traveller ($8-10 USD for the guide and $12-15 USD for the crew members). This is only a suggestion as we understand that tipping is a personal choice.

Optional Activities

CITY TOUR OF QUITO
We visit the new and old town of Quito, including the Palace of Congress, Presidential Palace, Independence Square and the Churches of San Francisco, La Compania and La Catedral. After this we go to the Panecillo (a lookout point in the old town), which affords the best view of Quito, then return to the hotel. This trip takes about 3.5 - 4 hours and can depart everyday at anytime.
- Entrance fees for the churches and Panecillo are not included in the price and is about $4 USD p/p.
- Price: $24 USD P/P, minimum 2 persons.

CITY TOUR AND THE EQUATOR LINE
After the city tour we go to the Equator line located 45 minutes away from Quito to visit the world monument and shops. Here we also visit the Inti Ñan local museum where you can see different experiments to prove that you are at the Centre of the Earth. This trip takes about 5 hours and can depart everyday at anytime.
Optional visit to The Pululahua crater 10 minutes away from the monument.
- Entrances fees for City Tour (Churches): total approx $4 USD
- Equator line $5 USD Museums Entrance fee: Total approx $9 USD
- Price: $32 USD P/P, minimum 2 persons.

COTOPAXI NATIONAL PARK
A spectacular 2-hour drive in private transport takes us to Cotopaxi Volcano, 5897m, the highest active volcano in the world. We visit a museum in the park and hike around a lagoon at the bottom of the volcano to learn about the flora and fauna found at this altitude. We then continue by car up the volcano to the parking lot, at over 4500m. Then we walk approximately 1.5hrs to the refuge at 4800m, and after a short break, continue to the glacier (if the weather holds out). We head back to the Pan-American highway to have lunch somewhere near Latacunga, or buy a box lunch on the way to have more time in the park. Return to Quito in the afternoon.
The full-day trip has departures every morning at 8AM.
- Entrance fee to the National Park: $2 USD.
- Price: $55 USD P/P, minimum 2 persons (private services)

SAQUISILI MARKET AND COTOPAXI NATIONAL PARK
Saquisili is another important market close to Quito, located in the south of Quito. A wonderful scenic drive of approximately 3 hours gives you the opportunity for great views of the volcanoes. Here, the local natives bring their products from over the highlands to sell, such as handicrafts from Salasaca, Otavalo and Chimborazo. You will also find an animal market.
This is an intensive day and leaves at 6AM every Thursday.
- Entrance fee to the National Park: $2 USD.
- Price: $90 USD P/P, minimum 2 persons.

OTAVALO MARKET
Otavalo market is considered one the biggest and best native markets in South America. Here you can find all the handicrafts that are made in Ecuador. We head north along the Pan-American highway for 2.5 hours. On the way we visit the village of Calderon to see the bread figures and Cayambe to taste the typical ‘biscochos’ (local biscuits). After you have explored the Otavalo market, we go to the leather market at Cotacachi or to Cuicocha Lake for a hike. The official Market Day is Saturday, but any other day is still interesting, and has less tourists. This is a full-day tour, leaving at approximately 8AM any day.
- Price: $45 USD P/P, minimum 2 persons.

COTOPAXI BIKING
Your biking adventure begins as we drive south to the Coattail National Park along the Pan-American Highway. Within two hours we reach the trailhead (4600 m) at the base of the Cotopaxi Volcano. After donning our biking gear and catching our breath in the thin, high-altitude air, we begin our downward descent. Get ready for high-speed adventure and hang on tight, as the dirt road will take you on a wild ride. The road will whisk you past silvery smooth Limpiopungo Lake and eventually through a pine forest, until you reach the park's guard station, where you can see a corralled Llama herd. Our 4-wheel-drive vehicles will drive you to Inca ruins (tolas), where a box lunch will be served. After a snack we return to Quito by jeep, bikes loaded on top.
Departures daily at 7AM. We ride approximately 50 kilometres on bike (5 - 6 hours) and 4 hours in the jeep.
Included: box lunch, 21-speed mountain bikes, all transportation and veteran bilingual guides.
- Entrance fee to the National Park: $2 USD.
- Price: $50 USD P/P (pool services)

BELLAVISTA CLOUD FOREST
To see the cloud forest and to experience the changes in the temperature and vegetation, you have to go to Bellavista cloud forest.
Bellavista cloud forest reserve is located at 0,00,46 latitude in northwestern Ecuador, on the edge of Choco which is among the most diverse places in the word.Things to do:
a)Birds here are always active, from the joy of watching hummingbirds on your private balcony, to exploring in search of elusive forest species, 320 species of birds have been recorded in the Tandayapa valley.
b) Hikes through primary and secondary forest.
c) Naturalist guides and specialist birding guides available (extra cost)
This trip is a full day and starts at 7AM.
- Entrance fee to the reserve $15 USD p/p
- Price: $50 USD P/P, minimum 2 persons.

PAPALLACTA HOT SPRINGS
Two hours drive to the east are the Termas de Papallacta. They are located on the Cinnamon trail, (65km from Quito) which is the same route that Francisco de Orellana took in 1542 when he crossed the Andean mountain range in search of spices and gold, and discovered the Amazon River. We take a short cut, passing by the church of Guapulo and have a wonderful ride in the paramo (tundra). The highest point reached is 4150m; we descend to a spectacular setting at 3300m. Things to do:
a) Hot springs (different temperatures) big and small ones, while enjoying views of the Antisana volcano 5750m. Entrance $5 USD.
b) Trekking up the river
c) Horseback rides
d) Relax in the new spa recently inaugurated (ask for details in the hotel).
Lunch at the restaurant offers typical dishes such as trout. Return to Quito in the afternoon.
This full-day trip departs daily at 8AM. Entry to the pool costs $6 per person
- Price: $50 USD P/P, minimum 2 persons.

1 DAY RAFTING TOUR -2 rivers in 1 day.
The Ríos Toachi and Blanco are fantastic introduction to the rivers of Ecuador. Flowing off the coastal side of the Andes they have some of the longest navigable sections of whitewater in the country. Combine this with the sights and sounds of the forest environment we pass through and you are guaranteed a day to remember.
We travel west down from Quito for about 3 hours through beautiful cloud forest to the bank of the river.
Rafting time approx 3 to 3.5 hrs. (NB. From March to May we usually run the upper Blanco river – 43km, approx. 4 hrs).
River Grading: III - IV (Depending on the time of year).
Includes: Professional guides, top of the line rafting equipment, lunch, transport to and from Quito.
-Departures: Daily with a minimum of 4 people
-Price: $ 75 USD P/P.

HORSEBACK RIDING
Transport from Quito to the Green Horse Ranch, inside the National Reserve Pululahua, about 25 miles north from Quito. Quiet sure footed mountain horses will take us through the stunning landscape of this ancient volcanic crater, the biggest one on the whole American continent and one of only two inhabited craters in the world. The constantly changing scenery and bio-diversity makes for a great day.
Guided day tours are available for all standards of riders - and if you've never ridden before what better place to start than in the Andes .
- Minimum 2 person
- $75 USD P/P


ARCHEOLOGICAL TRIP IN QUITO
Start with an amazing panoramic view of the old town of Quito and learn about the pre-colombian and pre-inca ethnic groups that live around the region. Enjoy the “Rumipamba” archeological and ecological park and visit the necropolis of “La Florida in situ Museum”. Finally, go down to the equatorial valley and visit the “Rumicucho” ruins, considered one of the biggest  archeological sites of the area. This trip takes about 5 hours and can depart from Wednesday to Sunday. Entrance fees are not included and total approx $2.50 P/P. Price $32 USD P/P minimum 2 persons (private services)

QUITO CUISINE TRIP
A different way to learn about Quito's traditions and culture. Drive to a local food market, where your will see many varieties of fruits, vegetables and flowers grown in Ecuador. After this, head south to the old part of the city, where you can visit historical monuments and buildings, and also see the manufacturing site of Quito`s traditional sweets. The tour finishes at one of the most traditional ice cream parlours in Quito. This trip takes about 5 hours and departs every day at anytime! Entrance fees and shopping in the market are not included and total approx $12 P/P. Price $32 USD P/P minimum 2 persons (private services)

NOTE: These prices are based on 2 clients but if you are a single traveller we can accommodate your trips as well. If there are more than 2 clients booking, the prices may be less than those quoted above.

Health

Please note inoculations may be required for the country visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up to date medical travel information well before departure.

You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes, as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that quite often we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. When selecting your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings for trip specific information. Discovery Adventures reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our group leader they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group.

Please note your Adventure travels to high altitude, in Quito. This is medically defined as anything over 8,000 feet (2,440 meters). Most people can travel to 8,000 feet with minimal effects. However, everyone reacts to altitude differently and altitude sickness can on set with some people irrespective of fitness and age. For details on how to best prepare and what to do in the unlikely event you are effected on your Adventure, please consult your physician.

Trip Specific Safety

Please take care when wandering about the city on your own, as pick pockets and purse-snatchers are common, particularly in the Old Town. Be safe and leave your passport, credit cards, traveller’s cheques and cash you don’t need in the hotel’s safety deposit box. Most Quiteños are honest and genuinely helpful and friendly, but be safe and enjoy the city!

Detailed Trip Notes

G6
Cruise the Galapagos in style aboard the G6, the newest and most comfortable vessel in our fleet in the Galapagos Islands, featuring special amenities such as a hydro-massage 4-person jacuzzi plus spacious outside decks for relaxing, a dining room and a bar. This first class 16-passenger motor catamaran has 8 air-conditioned double-occupancy cabins with lower berths and private bathrooms with hot water, and all meals are provided while on board. Our staff includes a Level III bilingual naturalist guide certified by the Galapagos National Park Authority, as well as a dedicated Cruise Director ensuring you are in good hands both onboard and on land. You may purchase alcoholic beverages, water and soft drinks on the boat.

PLEASE NOTE:
At times, when the G6 is being serviced, we will use another boat of equivalent standard and size.

LIFE ON BOARD
The daily schedule consists of a shore excursion immediately following breakfast, lunch aboard and perhaps a siesta before the afternoon shore excursion. In the evening after dinner, your naturalist guide will brief you on the islands to be visited the following day. You are ferried from the yacht to shore via small boats called pangas. Landings are either “dry” or “wet”, where you may have to wade ashore in shallow water. Your naturalist guide will accompany you during all excursions.

ACCOMMODATIONs
This is a Discovery Adventures Classic tour, all accommodation will be First Class and of a Superior service level. There are three cabin types on board the G Adventures Adventurer VI: Deluxe cabins with private balcony (both twin and double beds available), a Suite cabin (double bed) and Standard twin cabins - all with lower berths.

CLIMATE
Located on the Equator, the Galapagos climate is tempered by the Humboldt Current, so you do not experience extreme heat found elsewhere at this latitude. The warmest weather is from December to June, when temperatures range from 72-90°F (22-33°C), and the water temperature is in the mid 70°F (mid 20°F). From July to November, temperatures are cooler and range from 60-75°F (18-24°C), when average water temperature rarely reach 70°F (21°C).