This trip offers a fascinating insight into a country which is not only blessed with breathtaking scenery and beautiful colonial cities, but which is also the world's foremost destination for wildlife viewing. In Ecuador's proud colonial capital city of Quito you will take in the historic attractions and sample some of South America's finest chocolate. You will then fly to the Galapagos Islands for a comprehensive 8-day cruise of Darwin's 'living laboratory', taking in the other-worldly volcanic landscapes and encountering a fascinating array of wildlife which has no fear of man.
ESSENTIAL ECUADOR AND GALAPAGOS
HIGHLIGHTS
- Exploring the UNESCO World Heritage city of Quito, and sampling some of Ecuador's finest chocolate.
- Kayaking and hiking in the dramatic scenery of the volcanic Galapagos archipelago.
- Snorkelling with sea turtles and playful sealions.
- Watching the curious antics of marine iguanas as they dive underwater to feed on sea algae, then bask in the sun on dry land.
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Arrive
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Day 1 Arrive Quito
Arrival into Quito. This vibrant capital city sits in the foothills of the Andes and is home to your colonial hotel. Situated just off of the Plaza Principal (main square), in the heart of Quito's old town, the Hotel Patio Andaluz is the perfect place to relax after a long journey.
Overnight: Hotel Patio Andaluz
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Day 2 Quito
Built on the site of an ancient Incan city, Quito has one the best-preserved colonial centres in South America and is well worth exploring. You will also have the chance to sample some of the country's most delicious chocolate – Spanish explorers loved the cacao from Ecuador so much they called it the 'Food of the Gods'.
Overnight: Hotel Patio Andaluz
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Day 3 The Galapagos Islands
Catch an early flight to the majestic Galapagos Islands. On arrival, meet your fellow guests and expedition crew and transfer to your vessel. The MY Letty will be your home for the next seven nights, while you discover Darwin's 'living laboratory'.
Overnight: MY Letty
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Day 4 - 9 Days exploring the Galapagos Islands
Spend the next six days exploring this extraordinary volcanic archipelago, island-hopping from ancient lava fields to craggy cliffs where prehistoric reptiles such as the giant Galapagos tortoise and land and marine iguanas roam. These islands surpass any TV documentary you might have seen, bringing natural history to life in the most life-enhancing, unforgettable way imaginable.
Overnight: MY Letty
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Day 10 Guayaquil
Board your flight back to the mainland, leaving these incredible islands behind you. Spend a night in the port city of Guayaquil at your hotel on the water's edge.
Overnight: Wyndham Hotel Guayaquil
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Day 11 Guayaquil tour and departure
Meet your private guide this morning for a tour of Guayaquil, where highlights will include the Parque Seminario, where you can view the comical antics of of iguanas, and the picturesque neighbourhood of Santa Ana. At the end of the tour you will be driven to the international airport in time for your flight home or onward arrangements.
Option : extend your time in mainland Ecuador exploring colonial Cuenca, travelling through the Avenue of the Volcanoes, staying in an historic hacienda in the highlands or flying to the Amazon rainforest for further wildlife immersion.
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Depart
| $ 7,621 |
INCLUSIONS
- Transfers and tours in Quito and Guayaquil with English-speaking private guide
- All accommodation as stated in the itinerary
- Daily breakfast on the mainland, and all meals on your Galapagos cruise
- Non alcoholic drinks on your cruise, and house beer or wine with dinner (additional alcoholic beverages available for purchase)
- Return flights from mainland Ecuador to the Galapagos Islands (economy class)
- Snorkelling equipment and wet-suit during your Galapagos cruise
- Galapagos Islands transit card and national park entrance fee
EXTRAS
- International flights
- Meals not indicated in the itinerary
- Items of a personal nature such as laundry, drinks, gratuities (discretionary)
- Entrance fees and excursions not specifically mentioned as included
- Travel insurance or visa fees
BOOKING NOTES
- Price is per person based on two people sharing a twin or double room
- If you are interested in adding any of the optional enhancements listed, please speak to your specialist about prices and how best to fit them into the itinerary.
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REASONS TO BOOK
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