QUITO, THE AMAZON & GALAPAGOS ISLANDS (14 days)

1st day: .. / Quito

Upon your arrival reception at the airport and transfer to the Hotel selected.

Overnight at the hotel selected.

2nd day: Quito

SCENIC TOUR AND MIDDLE OF THE WORLD:

A 4 hours 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 visit 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 of the greatest religious buildings of the New World; its impressive facade 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 the hotel selected.

Meals included: Breakfast.

3rd day: Quito

OTAVALO - NATIVE FAIR - PEGUCHE:

This full day excursion goes north, to the land of the Otavaleños and South America’s most famous Indian fair. Early departure from Quito towards Calderón, a small village that keeps the tradition of making colorful dough figurines of Indian dolls, llamas, flowers and greats Christmas ornaments. Guests can observe how each figure is molded by hand, with dough of different colors carefully put together; then it is baked and varnished. Continue on the Pan-American Highway through dramatic mountain scenery to the textile market of Otavalo, where guests will enjoy visiting the many stalls full of ponchos, scarves, blankets, wall hangings, woven belts (fajas), hats, handbags and much more. Here Otavaleños barter in silence, in marked contrast to the raucous noise of other markets; take your time to negotiate the best bargains. Then, proceed to Peguche, an Indian village very near Otavalo that is home to the artisans who do the weaving in their homes; guests can learn about their culture and beliefs. Lunch is at one of the charming country inns or haciendas of the area like Pinsaqui, Puerto Lago or Cusin.

Overnight at the hotel selected.

Meals included: Breakfast and Lunch.

4th day: Quito

COTOPAXI NATIONAL PARK:

Early departure from Quito by motorcar on the Pan-American Highway to the south, to visit the Cotopaxi National Park, an ecological sanctuary of 88,920 acres, around the magnificent Cotopaxi Volcano, which rises 5897 meters (19,347 feet) above sea level. The evergreen landscape of the Ecuadorian highlands is one of the main attractions, along valleys and mountains covered by multicolored fields. After an hour and a half, the entrance to the park is reached and then it’s up a dirt road for approximately one hour. Upon arrival to the park there is an introductory briefing about the habitat of the Andean paramo or moorlands, its flora and fauna in the small Interpretation Center. Continue on to Limpiopungo Lagoon to observe a variety of birds and occasionally wild horses. On clear days, the Cotopaxi Volcano is the magnificent backdrop. A short walk around the lagoon allows the observation of the Andean flora. Lunch is at a restaurant of the area before returning to Quito in the afternoon. The entrance fee to Cotopaxi National Park is not included.

Overnight at the hotel selected.

Meals included: Breakfast and Lunch.

5th day: Quito / Coca

Transfer from the hotel to the airport

Flight from Quito to Coca

Coca

QUITO - COCA (SACHA LODGE):

Arrival at Puerto Francisco de Orellana, locally know as Coca. A naturalist guide takes guests to Sacha’s private house, with modern facilities, where lunch will be served before being taken down to the docks, where Sacha´s own covered, motorized canoe will be waiting to start on a 2 hour, 50-mile (80 kilometer) journey down the Napo River, one of the Amazon’s main tributaries. Upon arrival to Sacha´s 5000 acre (2,500 hectares) private reserve, a 30-minute walk on a raised boardwalk will lead guests to Lake Pilchicocha. Here, board dugout canoes with native paddlers that will carry guests across the lake to Sacha Lodge.

Overnight at Sacha’s Lodge.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

6th day: Coca

SACHA LODGE

The lodging at Sacha was carefully designed to offer comfort to the traveler yet preserve the environment and the rainforest. All cabins have high thatched roofs and private shaded terraces; are constructed with traditional materials and nestle, well concealed, into the lush surroundings. Each of the 26 rooms, which include single, double and (upon request) triple accommodations, provides a private bathroom with flushing toilet and hot shower. All cabins are screened against insects, have ceiling fans and two comfortable double beds. During free time, visitors may overlook the jungle from hammocks and often report seeing wild fauna such as toucans, agoutis and monkeys right from their own cabin! Lodge Activities.

Overnight at Sacha’s Lodge.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

7th day: Coca

SACHA LODGE:

Sacha’s guests will be divided in two groups no larger than six people. Each group will be led by a bilingual naturalist guide, experts on the tropical ecology and biology of the area, and a native Kichwa guide with expert knowledge of the rainforest’s medicinal plants and other useful plants which were used by the Kichwa’s people for centuries. A typical day at Sacha begins at sunrise or earlier, in order to take advantage of the cool morning hours when the rainforest’s animals are most active. In the afternoon, excursions begin between 3:00 and 4:00 and often continue into the early evening, when the nocturnal symphony of the rainforests frogs and insects become active.

Overnight at Sacha’s Lodge.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

8th day: Coca

SACHA LODGE:

Today you will farewell this exotic destination.

Flight from Coca to Quito.

Quito

Quito Reception at the airport and transfer to the selected hotel.

Overnight at hotel selected.

Meals included: Breakfast.

9th day: Quito / Galapagos Islands

Transfer from the hotel to the airport.

Flight from Quito to Galapagos.

>Galapagos Islands

SAN CRISTÓBAL ISLAND, LEÓN DORMIDO & CERRO BRUJO:

Arrival by plane to San Cristobal Island and transfer to the MV SANTA CRUZ, which will be anchored at Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, the provincial capital of the Galapagos Islands. Cabins assignment and lunch. After lunch, an introductory welcome talk and boat drill. Sail around Kicker Rock; rising 144 meters from the ocean; it is a spectacular rock formation off the northwest coast of San Cristobal. It is a volcanic tuff cone, of which just a minimum portion is left, as it has been eroded by thousands of years of sea and wind forces. Sea lions and fur sea lions may be observed too. The surrounding waters are clear for underwater viewing of rock walls and marine life. Afterwards, a dinghy ride along the shores of tuff-stone layers will bring us to Cerro Brujo's white coralline beach. Wet landing. The area will show us good views of seabirds like blue-footed boobies, Nazca Boobies, herons, frigate birds, and some shore birds. Also, look for Galapagos sea lions. The beach is a great open walking area, with rewarding bird watching. Highlights ashore include the Chatham (San Cristobal) Mockingbird, Chatham Lava Lizard; both species are endemic to this island and seen nowhere else in Galapagos. Back on board for an ECO Moment and briefing on the next day's activities, followed by a cocktail offered by the Captain and dinner.

Overnight at Santa’s Cruz Galapagos Cruise.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

10th day: Galapagos Island

PUNTA SUAREZ ISLAND:

Morning outing at Punta Suarez (dry landing) for an exciting walk on lava/boulder terrain to visit its unique sea bird colonies, including the waved albatrosses (April - December), Nazca (masked boobies), blue-footed boobies, swallow-tail gulls, and the famous blowhole. Among its land birds, the Hood island mockingbird, and three species of Darwin’s finches are common highlights. Also, look for red-green-black marine iguanas, and of course a rookery of sea lions right at the landing site. For those planning not to walk the entire trail, there will be a dinghy ride arranged along the coastline of Punta Suarez, followed by a very short walk under easy walking conditions. Back on board for lunch. Disembark at Punta Cormorant (wet landing) at an olivine-crystal beach for an easy walk that includes a brackish water lagoon where bird species like Greater flamingos, pintail ducks, common stilts, herons, sandpipers, and others may be observed. This outing also includes a white-sand beach where sea turtles come out at night for nesting (from December to May). Snorkeling can take place from the beach, and for those experienced marine enthusiasts, Devil's Crown can be an option. Non-snorkelers can enjoy an introduction to the Marine Reserve on the glass-bottom boat. ECO Moment, briefing and dinner.

Overnight at Santa’s Cruz Galapagos Cruise.

Meals included : Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

11th day: Galapagos Island

FERNANDINA ISLAND, PUNTA ESPINOZA, CANAL BOLIVAR, BAHÍA URBINA:

This morning brings us to the youngest island, Fernandina. First, a dinghy ride to observe Galapagos penguins as well as flightless cormorants. Punta Espinoza has an amazing combination of barrenness with lots of wildlife. Having no introduced mammals, Fernandina has a very unique environment with the highest density of marine iguanas, sharing their island habitat with sea lions, sally-light foot crabs, and hawks. Lava terrain calls for good walking shoes. Snorkeling at this location depends on local sea conditions, and will be announced by the Expedition Staff. Back on board for lunch. As we sail along the Bolívar Channel, astonishing views of the Galápagos’ youngest volcanoes can be seen. The nutrient-rich waters of the west can also bring surprises like encountering sea birds feeding, dolphins, and possibly whales. Afternoon disembarkation (wet landing), for a walk at Urbina Bay. This area went through a volcanic uplifting event back in 1954 leaving gaunt marine skeletons, which make the walk remarkably interesting, especially for understanding island colonization. This area is also home to large and very colorful Galápagos land iguanas, and with some luck, we may even find giant tortoises from the wild population of Alcedo Volcano. A refreshing swim can be accomplished after the walk. Farewell briefing and dinner.

Overnight at Santa’s Cruz Galapagos Cruise.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

12th day: Galapagos Islands / Quito

CHARLES DARWIN RESEARCH STATION, ITABACA CHANNEL & BALTRA ISLAND:

Visiting the famous Charles Darwin Research Station will be certainly a rewarding adventure for this morning's program. We arrive at the Itabaca Channel, between the islands of Baltra and Santa Cruz and disembark at the public dock (dry landing) for a 30-minute bus ride along the highlands in route to Puerto Ayora where changes in vegetation can be witnessed. Upon arrival, we proceed to visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and the rearing in captivity program for the famous giant tortoises. Here we will get to understand the conservation efforts promoted by this institution, and stroll among an impressive giant prickly-pear cactus forest where endemic land birds can be seen. After an hour visit, return via the same route to cross the Itabaca Channel by ferry and take the bus to Baltra Island airport in time for the 12h15 flight back to the continent.

Flight from Galapagos to Quito.

Quito

Reception at the airport and transfer to the selected Hotel.

Overnight at the hotel selected.

Meals included : Breakfast.

13th day: Quito

PAPALLACTA:

Depart Quito in the morning towards Papallacta located approximately 2 hours from Quito. Travel on the Cinnamon Trail, the route Francisco de Orellana took in 1542, when he crossed the Andean mountain range in search of spices and gold, only to discover the Amazon River. Upon arrival we invite you to relax and soak away life’s aches and pains. At Papallacta you will begin to feel the beneficial effects of the life-giving, diaphanous air which originates in a singular meeting of the Amazonian winds with the rocks, forests and water of the high Andean mountains. At the hot thermal spring pools experience the notable, restorative effects of the crystalline thermal waters (sulfate alkaline terreous). Submerge yourself in the warm water and take advantage of its curative properties in rheumatic, arthritic, digestive and respiratory processes. The water is odorless, crystalline and ever changing. Lunch is included. In the afternoon, return to Quito city.

Overnight at the hotel selected.

Meals included : Breakfast.

14th day: Quito / ...

Transfer from the hotel to the airport.

Meals included : Breakfast.