ecuador galapagos rundresa
L I M E
T R A V E L
Förslag på rundresa
ECUADOR & GALAPAGOS
10 nätter Det finns tusen anledningar att upptäcka Ecuador. Landet, som fått sitt namn efter Ekvatorn, har fyra regioner: soliga, varma stillahavskusten, majestätiska Anderna, Amazonas regnskogar och underbara Galapagosöarna. Landet är relativt litet men utbudet av upplevelser stort. Ecuador är naturälskarnas paradis med en unik mångfald växter och djur. Här finns spännande historia, ett unikt kök, kultur, äventyr. När kommer du?
Day 1 Private guided transfer between the airport and hotel. It includes the handling of two pieces of luggage per person at the airport and the hotel. Overnight at Casa Gangotena in Quito. Day 2, Quito Quito and the Center of the World monument, private. (Private service with guide and driver, 4 hours, from Quito, includes all entrance fees. Culture, art and history). The capital of Ecuador, Quito, brings the past to life in its museums, monasteries, the carved stone facades and golden altars of its many churches. Enjoy the scenic. Colonial and artistic Quito, then stand with a foot on each hemisphere at the Center of the World. A visit to downtown Quito to relish in this urban jewel and its treasures of art and architecture. Quito’s colonial quarter, the largest and best preserved of South America, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The stroll starts at the Independence Plaza, flanked by the Cathedral, the Presidential Palace, the Municipal Building and the Archbishop’s Palace. Visit the temple of La Compañía de Jesús and its awesome gilded interior. Continue on to the Monastery of San Francisco, one the of great religious buildings of the New World; its impressive façade and atrium that lead to its Baroque interior influenced by Moorish style, with the winged Virgin of Quito at its main altar. Then continue to the Equatorial Monument, 25 Kms. (16 miles) North of Quito, which marks the exact Middle of the World, latitude 0º, where you can stand with a foot on each hemisphere. Visit the Ethnographic Museum inside the monument, which shows the different Native American groups living in Ecuador. Beside the monument there is a colonial-style town, complete with main square, church, post office, bullring, cafeterias, restaurants and many gift shops with postcards and souvenirs. You will get a certificate for having crossed the Equator. Overnight at Casa Gangotena in Quito. Day 3, Quito - Mashpi Overland private transfer from Casa Gangotena to Mashpi Lodge. We take the highway north of Quito, passing the Equator Monument and Latitude 0. Climbing up to the western pass, we detour for a short break at the viewpoint of the Pululahua Crater, a dormant volcano. From here on, it’s downhill towards the Pacific Ocean, turning off the main highway onto rural roads about 30 minutes after this stop. About two hours after leaving Quito,
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L I M E T R AV E L
we reach the archaeological site-museum of Tulipe, where we stop to explore the grounds and learn about the Yumbo people who created the waterpools and structures here. About an hour and a half later, we arrive at the entrance to the Mashpi Reserve which extends over the surrounding 1,300 hectares (3,212 acres) – a haven for wildlife and biodiversity – and then continue to the Lodge itself, arriving at between 12 and 12.30pm. Here guests are welcomed with a refreshing drink and checked in to their rooms. A short introductory briefing is usually given before Lunch is served, followed by a short time to relax. After lunch, the afternoon’s activities begin (please see options detailed below). These will depend on factors such as group size, physical abilities and weather conditions.
L I M E T R AV E L
After dinner on either the first or second nights (or both), optional night walks head out from the hotel.
We then drive back eastwards, winding our way up the Andes towards the capital. Overnight at Rincon de Puembo.
Day 4, Mashpi For those who want to enjoy the beauty and magic of dawn in the forest – which is when most birds are active and calling, as well as when views are often most spectacular – early morning activities are organised before breakfast. Following breakfast, we head out from the lodge to explore, returning for lunch and a rest, before enjoying an afternoon amid Nature, then dinner, (optional) night walks and sleep. Day 5, Mashpi - Quito On the last day, there’s an early breakfast, followed by a morning activity. Guests return to the lodge and check out. An early lunch is served before departure at 1.30pm.
ACTIVITIES AT MASHPI LODGE Canopy Gondola The highlight of anyone’s trip to Mashpi is the ‘canopy gondola’, or aerial tram. The two gondolas on the system will glide guests through and above the forest canopy on an exciting exploration of the Reserve’s ecosystem. The gondola cable system extends over 2 km (1.25 miles) between two end/boarding stations, with one tower in the middle for possible embarking and disembarking. The gondola travels dramatically above and through the trees’ upper canopy, at a very slow pace. Each way takes about 35 minutes to complete. Its route enables guests to explore different areas of the Reserve as well as appreciating the trees’
EC UA D O R & G A L A PAG O S 3
ecosystem from root to tip, creating a complete vision of the various life-zones and types of forest. The first time guests board the system, they will enjoy a round-trip journey of discovery, taking around two and a half hours in all to complete. The system can then also be used by guests to combine hikes of varying difficulty with travel by gondola. If the other gondola is empty, if the group spots a creature in the forest guides can stop the system, enabling exciting, prolonged observation of plant and animal life.. The gondola carries six guests, plus their Naturalist Guide. Each ‘carriage’ is comprised of two units, joined together. Both are roofed, with rotating seats, safety rails and places to hang day-packs. The gondola will be ready for guests in 2013. Trails As you enter the realm of the rainforests,
4 EC UA D O R & G A L A PAG O S
you will become aware of Life at every step: mushrooms and “fox fire” fungi below, tree trunks festooned with orchids, lichens and mosses, giant ferns reaching up to the light above, coiling vines, swirling mists and clouds of moisture. And then, from nowhere, comes the sound of rushing water, a waterfall amid this glistening, green world, where you can wade through rivers, walk along their banks, revive your senses... Along the trails, guests will learn more from both their Naturalist Guide and Local Guide about the myriad plants, insects and animals that inhabit this biodiverse universe. The guides will enthusiastically share their knowledge of their characteristics, behaviour and uses. Many trails can be combined with the gondola. Due to Mashpi’s mountainous topography, trails are rarely flat and some are steep. The trails’ steepness is an advantage since the hillsides enable more light to penetrate
the forest, thereby increasing the diversity of plants and animals that one can observe at each stratum. Many trails have been specially adapted to make walking easier, using embedded recycled plastic crates to create steps and firm paths. Life Centre Close to the lodge, the centre is conceived as a place for learning and discovery, but also where guests can disconnect, where they can contemplate the views, relax on a chaise longue, or enjoy a glass fresh sugar cane juice. Guests will learn more about the butterflies that inhabit the region, being shown the process of these creatures from eggs to pupae to chrysalis to winged wonder. Some 200 species of butterfly have been identified to date in the Reserve, with nearly a dozen observable at the Centre. Other points of learning include dozens of species
L I M E T R AV E L
of orchids, bromeliads and passion flowers all around the structure. Close to the Centre, we have established an area for growing medicinal plants (ideal for a reviving herbal infusion) and beyond, many varieties of bushes and fruit trees, including banana and plantain, manioc, cacao, tobacco, coffee, bread fruit and heart of palm. These attract all sorts of wildlife, from birds to rodents to mammals – making for easier observation from the comfort of the Centre’s expansive wooden deck. Most of the interpretation at the centre will be imparted by local guides or people involved with the project from local communities. Guests will find ingredients from these gardens in the dishes prepared back at the lodge. Observation Tower There are few easier or better ways to appreciate the beauty of the Mashpi Reserve’s forest and hills than climbing the Observation Tower. Here, guests are able to enjoy an exciting bird’s-eye view and the dramatic panoramas that surround the lodge from the observation tower. This is a metallic structure, with a staircase that climbs to about eight-stories high (26 m or 85 ft), ideal for wildlife observation, particularly at dawn or dusk. Species that can be spotted here include toucans, woodpeckers, barbets, tanagers and parrots as well as raptors. The tower lies a 10-minute walk from the lodge. Night walks The Mashpi forest is transformed at night, with far more activity than during the day. Optional night walks will head out from the hotel after dinner to discover its nocturnal creatures and their behaviours, ranging from moths as big as your hand, to miniature glass and tree frogs, croaking toads, birds, owls, rodents and mammals, and even fox fire, an Avatar-like luminous fungus. It’s a magical world, often astounding at the micro level, and seldom explored, ready to be discovered in expert company. Sky Bike Located close to the hotel, the sky bike makes for an original and exciting way to explore the forest canopy up close. Designed for two people to use at once, one person pedals the bike along a cable stretched between two points in the forest, around 200 m (655 feet) apart, crossing a gorge above a river flowing between rocks and trees below. Silent, easy-to-use and fun, it’s an activity for all, providing guests with another chance to observe the natural world close to the lodge and even spot its denizens.
L I M E T R AV E L
Hummingbird Viewpoint The forests of Mashpi boast 32 hummingbird species identified to date in the Reserve, inhabiting different specific altitudes, with around 18 species alone observable by guests. In order to make it easier to see these amazing creatures, a shelter with seating provides the ideal setting, feeders for the birds strung from its roof. The site is located at a natural viewpoint, which, on clear days, provides breathtaking views of the Reserve’s forested hills. Refreshing waterfalls Water is key to life in Mashpi, and there’s nothing like a refreshing dip at the end of a walk. Several rivers cross the Mashpi Reserve close to the hotel, many forming beautiful small waterfalls, cascades and pools. The water temperature is between 18 and 20°C (64 and 68 F) year-round. Specialist Activities Mashpi is an exciting place for guests with special interests, such as photography, botany (particularly orchids) or entomology. Many interests can be accommodated upon request. Transport within the Reserve Electrically-powered carts are employed within the Reserve to carry those guests who wish to use them from one sight or attraction to the next, thus reducing the impact on the forest and its creatures. The small boutique at the lodge sells a range of books, guides, clothing (T-shirts, shirts, hats, buffs), crafts, as well as essentials (batteries, health care products, etc.). Day 6, Puembo - Galapagos Private guided transfer between hotel and airport. It includes the handling of two pieces of luggage per person at the airport and the hotel. Flight Quito – Galapagos YACHT LA PINTA, 5days/4 nights Northern Islands Itinerary. Baltra Airport Following our morning arrival at Baltra Airport, we transfer to the Itabaca Channel, taking a small ferry across the Channel to the north shore of Santa Cruz Island. We board our bus to the highlands of Santa Cruz Island, where we’ll learn about the unique montane ecosystems and biodiversity. Lunch is served at a local restaurant. Note: please dress with comfortable shoes and clothes, bring a small backpack with any medicine you might be taken, sunblock, insect repellent and anything you need during the excursion as you will go onboard Yacht La Pinta and the end of
EC UA D O R & G A L A PAG O S 5
the day. El Chato (Santa Cruz Island). After lunch, we travel by bus to El Chato Reserve, one of the best places in the archipelago to see giant tortoises in their natural habitat. The tortoises are easy to spot, lumbering around, eating grass and leaves and wallowing in the small pools. There are several lava tunnels in the reserve, too. A short bus ride takes us down to Puerto Ayora to board Yacht La Pinta. Day 7, Galapagos Bahía Ballena – Whale Bay (Santa Cruz Island). After breakfast, we disembark at a beautiful olivine beach where a trail leads to an old water hole used by former settlers. There are boobies and land birds to spot, and beautiful views of the northwest side of Santa Cruz Island to enjoy. Several activities are possible after the walk, such as snorkelling or a panga ride along the shoreline. Sombrero Chino Islet. The tiny island of Sombrero Chino gets its name from its appearance: a Chinese hat. This islet, only formed fairly recently, makes a beautiful visit as one explores the wildlife along its 400-metre long trail, which begins at a crescent-shaped white sandy beach. The cove offers excellent swimming and snorkeling opportunities with white-tipped reef sharks and Galápagos penguins. Day 8, Galapagos Bartolomé Island. This morning, a Galápagos icon awaits: Bartolomé Island. A great way to start the day, with a steep climb up a wooden staircase: the view from the top is worth the effort! Following the walk, we take to the dinghies for a ride around colossal Pinnacle Rock, followed by time to enjoy the beach and some snorkelling. We can also ride in the glass-bottom boat for great views of the underwater world. Sullivan Bay (James Island). After lunch, we board the pangas to land at Sullivan Bay on the east coast of Santiago, a white coral sand beach great for swimming and snorkelling, and with a trail over a lava field that flowed here less than 100 years ago. This is the perfect place to see and feel the volcanic origin of Galápagos while observing its wildlife. Day 9, Galapagos Darwin Bay (Genovesa Island). In the morning, we begin our exploration of this island with an easy stroll to observe thousands of marine and land birds. There is an optional walk over sharp lava and uneven terrain for dramatic views, or else we can return to the beach to enjoy swimming and snorkelling at this beautiful natural harbour. The more
6 EC UA D O R & G A L A PAG O S
L I M E T R AV E L
Day 10, Galapagos - Guayaquil Baltra Island. Our journey ends at Baltra Island where we transfer to the airport to take the flight back to the mainland.
• Marine iguanas • Blue-footed boobies • Nazca boobies • Red-footed boobies • Galápagos doves • Galápagos mockingbirds • Española mockingbirds • Darwin finches • Galápagos hawks • Short-eared owls • Brown pelicans • Greater frigates • Magnificent frigates • Galápagos penguins • Swallow-tailed gulls • Lava gulls • Lava (striated) herons
ICON SPECIES: • Galápagos sea lion • Galápagos fur seal • Giant tortoises
HIGHLIGHT SITES: • Pinnacle Rock • Kicker Rock. • Darwin Bay
adventurous can snorkel along the cliffs or paddle sea kayaks. Prince Philip’s Steps (Genovesa Island). The afternoon starts with a very interesting panga ride along the cliffs before we disembark for a steep climb up some stairs. Once at the top of the stairs, the land is flat, allowing for a captivating walk of about a mile to the other side of this small island, observing large colonies of Nazca boobies, frigate birds and storm petrels and the elusive short eared owl.
L I M E T R AV E L
In Guayaquil Private guided transfer between airport and hotel. It includes the handling of two pieces of luggage per person at the airport and the hotel. Overnight at Hilton Colon Guayaquil. Day 11, Guayaquil Private guided transfer between hotel and airport. It includes the handling of two pieces of luggage per person at the airport and the hotel.
EC UA D O R & G A L A PAG O S 7
T R A V E L
Förslag på rundresa
ECUADOR & GALAPAGOS
10 nätter Det finns tusen anledningar att upptäcka Ecuador. Landet, som fått sitt namn efter Ekvatorn, har fyra regioner: soliga, varma stillahavskusten, majestätiska Anderna, Amazonas regnskogar och underbara Galapagosöarna. Landet är relativt litet men utbudet av upplevelser stort. Ecuador är naturälskarnas paradis med en unik mångfald växter och djur. Här finns spännande historia, ett unikt kök, kultur, äventyr. När kommer du?
Day 1 Private guided transfer between the airport and hotel. It includes the handling of two pieces of luggage per person at the airport and the hotel. Overnight at Casa Gangotena in Quito. Day 2, Quito Quito and the Center of the World monument, private. (Private service with guide and driver, 4 hours, from Quito, includes all entrance fees. Culture, art and history). The capital of Ecuador, Quito, brings the past to life in its museums, monasteries, the carved stone facades and golden altars of its many churches. Enjoy the scenic. Colonial and artistic Quito, then stand with a foot on each hemisphere at the Center of the World. A visit to downtown Quito to relish in this urban jewel and its treasures of art and architecture. Quito’s colonial quarter, the largest and best preserved of South America, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The stroll starts at the Independence Plaza, flanked by the Cathedral, the Presidential Palace, the Municipal Building and the Archbishop’s Palace. Visit the temple of La Compañía de Jesús and its awesome gilded interior. Continue on to the Monastery of San Francisco, one the of great religious buildings of the New World; its impressive façade and atrium that lead to its Baroque interior influenced by Moorish style, with the winged Virgin of Quito at its main altar. Then continue to the Equatorial Monument, 25 Kms. (16 miles) North of Quito, which marks the exact Middle of the World, latitude 0º, where you can stand with a foot on each hemisphere. Visit the Ethnographic Museum inside the monument, which shows the different Native American groups living in Ecuador. Beside the monument there is a colonial-style town, complete with main square, church, post office, bullring, cafeterias, restaurants and many gift shops with postcards and souvenirs. You will get a certificate for having crossed the Equator. Overnight at Casa Gangotena in Quito. Day 3, Quito - Mashpi Overland private transfer from Casa Gangotena to Mashpi Lodge. We take the highway north of Quito, passing the Equator Monument and Latitude 0. Climbing up to the western pass, we detour for a short break at the viewpoint of the Pululahua Crater, a dormant volcano. From here on, it’s downhill towards the Pacific Ocean, turning off the main highway onto rural roads about 30 minutes after this stop. About two hours after leaving Quito,
2 EC UA D O R & G A L A PAG O S
L I M E T R AV E L
we reach the archaeological site-museum of Tulipe, where we stop to explore the grounds and learn about the Yumbo people who created the waterpools and structures here. About an hour and a half later, we arrive at the entrance to the Mashpi Reserve which extends over the surrounding 1,300 hectares (3,212 acres) – a haven for wildlife and biodiversity – and then continue to the Lodge itself, arriving at between 12 and 12.30pm. Here guests are welcomed with a refreshing drink and checked in to their rooms. A short introductory briefing is usually given before Lunch is served, followed by a short time to relax. After lunch, the afternoon’s activities begin (please see options detailed below). These will depend on factors such as group size, physical abilities and weather conditions.
L I M E T R AV E L
After dinner on either the first or second nights (or both), optional night walks head out from the hotel.
We then drive back eastwards, winding our way up the Andes towards the capital. Overnight at Rincon de Puembo.
Day 4, Mashpi For those who want to enjoy the beauty and magic of dawn in the forest – which is when most birds are active and calling, as well as when views are often most spectacular – early morning activities are organised before breakfast. Following breakfast, we head out from the lodge to explore, returning for lunch and a rest, before enjoying an afternoon amid Nature, then dinner, (optional) night walks and sleep. Day 5, Mashpi - Quito On the last day, there’s an early breakfast, followed by a morning activity. Guests return to the lodge and check out. An early lunch is served before departure at 1.30pm.
ACTIVITIES AT MASHPI LODGE Canopy Gondola The highlight of anyone’s trip to Mashpi is the ‘canopy gondola’, or aerial tram. The two gondolas on the system will glide guests through and above the forest canopy on an exciting exploration of the Reserve’s ecosystem. The gondola cable system extends over 2 km (1.25 miles) between two end/boarding stations, with one tower in the middle for possible embarking and disembarking. The gondola travels dramatically above and through the trees’ upper canopy, at a very slow pace. Each way takes about 35 minutes to complete. Its route enables guests to explore different areas of the Reserve as well as appreciating the trees’
EC UA D O R & G A L A PAG O S 3
ecosystem from root to tip, creating a complete vision of the various life-zones and types of forest. The first time guests board the system, they will enjoy a round-trip journey of discovery, taking around two and a half hours in all to complete. The system can then also be used by guests to combine hikes of varying difficulty with travel by gondola. If the other gondola is empty, if the group spots a creature in the forest guides can stop the system, enabling exciting, prolonged observation of plant and animal life.. The gondola carries six guests, plus their Naturalist Guide. Each ‘carriage’ is comprised of two units, joined together. Both are roofed, with rotating seats, safety rails and places to hang day-packs. The gondola will be ready for guests in 2013. Trails As you enter the realm of the rainforests,
4 EC UA D O R & G A L A PAG O S
you will become aware of Life at every step: mushrooms and “fox fire” fungi below, tree trunks festooned with orchids, lichens and mosses, giant ferns reaching up to the light above, coiling vines, swirling mists and clouds of moisture. And then, from nowhere, comes the sound of rushing water, a waterfall amid this glistening, green world, where you can wade through rivers, walk along their banks, revive your senses... Along the trails, guests will learn more from both their Naturalist Guide and Local Guide about the myriad plants, insects and animals that inhabit this biodiverse universe. The guides will enthusiastically share their knowledge of their characteristics, behaviour and uses. Many trails can be combined with the gondola. Due to Mashpi’s mountainous topography, trails are rarely flat and some are steep. The trails’ steepness is an advantage since the hillsides enable more light to penetrate
the forest, thereby increasing the diversity of plants and animals that one can observe at each stratum. Many trails have been specially adapted to make walking easier, using embedded recycled plastic crates to create steps and firm paths. Life Centre Close to the lodge, the centre is conceived as a place for learning and discovery, but also where guests can disconnect, where they can contemplate the views, relax on a chaise longue, or enjoy a glass fresh sugar cane juice. Guests will learn more about the butterflies that inhabit the region, being shown the process of these creatures from eggs to pupae to chrysalis to winged wonder. Some 200 species of butterfly have been identified to date in the Reserve, with nearly a dozen observable at the Centre. Other points of learning include dozens of species
L I M E T R AV E L
of orchids, bromeliads and passion flowers all around the structure. Close to the Centre, we have established an area for growing medicinal plants (ideal for a reviving herbal infusion) and beyond, many varieties of bushes and fruit trees, including banana and plantain, manioc, cacao, tobacco, coffee, bread fruit and heart of palm. These attract all sorts of wildlife, from birds to rodents to mammals – making for easier observation from the comfort of the Centre’s expansive wooden deck. Most of the interpretation at the centre will be imparted by local guides or people involved with the project from local communities. Guests will find ingredients from these gardens in the dishes prepared back at the lodge. Observation Tower There are few easier or better ways to appreciate the beauty of the Mashpi Reserve’s forest and hills than climbing the Observation Tower. Here, guests are able to enjoy an exciting bird’s-eye view and the dramatic panoramas that surround the lodge from the observation tower. This is a metallic structure, with a staircase that climbs to about eight-stories high (26 m or 85 ft), ideal for wildlife observation, particularly at dawn or dusk. Species that can be spotted here include toucans, woodpeckers, barbets, tanagers and parrots as well as raptors. The tower lies a 10-minute walk from the lodge. Night walks The Mashpi forest is transformed at night, with far more activity than during the day. Optional night walks will head out from the hotel after dinner to discover its nocturnal creatures and their behaviours, ranging from moths as big as your hand, to miniature glass and tree frogs, croaking toads, birds, owls, rodents and mammals, and even fox fire, an Avatar-like luminous fungus. It’s a magical world, often astounding at the micro level, and seldom explored, ready to be discovered in expert company. Sky Bike Located close to the hotel, the sky bike makes for an original and exciting way to explore the forest canopy up close. Designed for two people to use at once, one person pedals the bike along a cable stretched between two points in the forest, around 200 m (655 feet) apart, crossing a gorge above a river flowing between rocks and trees below. Silent, easy-to-use and fun, it’s an activity for all, providing guests with another chance to observe the natural world close to the lodge and even spot its denizens.
L I M E T R AV E L
Hummingbird Viewpoint The forests of Mashpi boast 32 hummingbird species identified to date in the Reserve, inhabiting different specific altitudes, with around 18 species alone observable by guests. In order to make it easier to see these amazing creatures, a shelter with seating provides the ideal setting, feeders for the birds strung from its roof. The site is located at a natural viewpoint, which, on clear days, provides breathtaking views of the Reserve’s forested hills. Refreshing waterfalls Water is key to life in Mashpi, and there’s nothing like a refreshing dip at the end of a walk. Several rivers cross the Mashpi Reserve close to the hotel, many forming beautiful small waterfalls, cascades and pools. The water temperature is between 18 and 20°C (64 and 68 F) year-round. Specialist Activities Mashpi is an exciting place for guests with special interests, such as photography, botany (particularly orchids) or entomology. Many interests can be accommodated upon request. Transport within the Reserve Electrically-powered carts are employed within the Reserve to carry those guests who wish to use them from one sight or attraction to the next, thus reducing the impact on the forest and its creatures. The small boutique at the lodge sells a range of books, guides, clothing (T-shirts, shirts, hats, buffs), crafts, as well as essentials (batteries, health care products, etc.). Day 6, Puembo - Galapagos Private guided transfer between hotel and airport. It includes the handling of two pieces of luggage per person at the airport and the hotel. Flight Quito – Galapagos YACHT LA PINTA, 5days/4 nights Northern Islands Itinerary. Baltra Airport Following our morning arrival at Baltra Airport, we transfer to the Itabaca Channel, taking a small ferry across the Channel to the north shore of Santa Cruz Island. We board our bus to the highlands of Santa Cruz Island, where we’ll learn about the unique montane ecosystems and biodiversity. Lunch is served at a local restaurant. Note: please dress with comfortable shoes and clothes, bring a small backpack with any medicine you might be taken, sunblock, insect repellent and anything you need during the excursion as you will go onboard Yacht La Pinta and the end of
EC UA D O R & G A L A PAG O S 5
the day. El Chato (Santa Cruz Island). After lunch, we travel by bus to El Chato Reserve, one of the best places in the archipelago to see giant tortoises in their natural habitat. The tortoises are easy to spot, lumbering around, eating grass and leaves and wallowing in the small pools. There are several lava tunnels in the reserve, too. A short bus ride takes us down to Puerto Ayora to board Yacht La Pinta. Day 7, Galapagos Bahía Ballena – Whale Bay (Santa Cruz Island). After breakfast, we disembark at a beautiful olivine beach where a trail leads to an old water hole used by former settlers. There are boobies and land birds to spot, and beautiful views of the northwest side of Santa Cruz Island to enjoy. Several activities are possible after the walk, such as snorkelling or a panga ride along the shoreline. Sombrero Chino Islet. The tiny island of Sombrero Chino gets its name from its appearance: a Chinese hat. This islet, only formed fairly recently, makes a beautiful visit as one explores the wildlife along its 400-metre long trail, which begins at a crescent-shaped white sandy beach. The cove offers excellent swimming and snorkeling opportunities with white-tipped reef sharks and Galápagos penguins. Day 8, Galapagos Bartolomé Island. This morning, a Galápagos icon awaits: Bartolomé Island. A great way to start the day, with a steep climb up a wooden staircase: the view from the top is worth the effort! Following the walk, we take to the dinghies for a ride around colossal Pinnacle Rock, followed by time to enjoy the beach and some snorkelling. We can also ride in the glass-bottom boat for great views of the underwater world. Sullivan Bay (James Island). After lunch, we board the pangas to land at Sullivan Bay on the east coast of Santiago, a white coral sand beach great for swimming and snorkelling, and with a trail over a lava field that flowed here less than 100 years ago. This is the perfect place to see and feel the volcanic origin of Galápagos while observing its wildlife. Day 9, Galapagos Darwin Bay (Genovesa Island). In the morning, we begin our exploration of this island with an easy stroll to observe thousands of marine and land birds. There is an optional walk over sharp lava and uneven terrain for dramatic views, or else we can return to the beach to enjoy swimming and snorkelling at this beautiful natural harbour. The more
6 EC UA D O R & G A L A PAG O S
L I M E T R AV E L
Day 10, Galapagos - Guayaquil Baltra Island. Our journey ends at Baltra Island where we transfer to the airport to take the flight back to the mainland.
• Marine iguanas • Blue-footed boobies • Nazca boobies • Red-footed boobies • Galápagos doves • Galápagos mockingbirds • Española mockingbirds • Darwin finches • Galápagos hawks • Short-eared owls • Brown pelicans • Greater frigates • Magnificent frigates • Galápagos penguins • Swallow-tailed gulls • Lava gulls • Lava (striated) herons
ICON SPECIES: • Galápagos sea lion • Galápagos fur seal • Giant tortoises
HIGHLIGHT SITES: • Pinnacle Rock • Kicker Rock. • Darwin Bay
adventurous can snorkel along the cliffs or paddle sea kayaks. Prince Philip’s Steps (Genovesa Island). The afternoon starts with a very interesting panga ride along the cliffs before we disembark for a steep climb up some stairs. Once at the top of the stairs, the land is flat, allowing for a captivating walk of about a mile to the other side of this small island, observing large colonies of Nazca boobies, frigate birds and storm petrels and the elusive short eared owl.
L I M E T R AV E L
In Guayaquil Private guided transfer between airport and hotel. It includes the handling of two pieces of luggage per person at the airport and the hotel. Overnight at Hilton Colon Guayaquil. Day 11, Guayaquil Private guided transfer between hotel and airport. It includes the handling of two pieces of luggage per person at the airport and the hotel.
EC UA D O R & G A L A PAG O S 7
