ALL ECUADOR & GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
(18 Days)

1st day: Quito

Reception at the airport and transfer to the hotel selected.

Overnight at the selected hotel.

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

RAIL & ROAD JOURNEY IN THE ECUADORIAN ANDES:

The adventure starts at the Station of Chimbacalle in southern Quito, which has been restored to its old glory, to commemorate the centenary of the arrival of the first steam train of the Guayaquil & Quito Railway Co. to Quito in 1908, an event that joined Ecuador’s main cities (Guayaquil and Quito) and became the backbone that would forever change the politics, economy and the lives of the Ecuadorians. Here awaits the "Autoferro", a one coach train, like a bus on tracks, ready to take guests on a trip along the stunning Andean region of Ecuador. The first leg of the rail ride goes from Quito to the Station at El Boliche. A stop is made along the way at dairy Hacienda La Alegría, where guests are welcomed by the owner, observe the milking process, horses and llamas and enjoy a snack. Then its up the slopes of Cotopaxi Volcano to the El Boliche Station, up high, where guests are transferred to a bus to continue along the Pan American Highway, down into the fertile Valley of Latacunga for a visit to a rose plantation to observe the beautiful variety of Ecuadorian roses, ready for exportation, and a taste of the products of the land, specially broccoli and potatoes- harvested that same morning- with lima beans and fresh cheese. Continue by bus to Urbina Train Station, up high, at the foot of imposing Chimborazo Volcano, visit a Tagua workshop and warm up with a canelazo (a typical drink that is served hot) and rolls by the fireplace and, if the Chimborazo is clear, you will appreciate an amazing sunset. Then continue by bus to Riobamba for dinner and overnight.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

4th day: Riobamba

RAIL & ROAD JOURNEY IN THE ECUADORIAN ANDES:

After an early breakfast, transfer to the train station in Riobamba to board the "Autoferro". Leisurely enjoy the ever-changing scenery along the ancient tracks in an astonishing ride, twisting and turning over the Andes, along bridging ravines and river gorges. Stop at Guamote, an Indian town, for a short visit to an Educational Center for Adults’ Development and Sustainability. Continue to Alausí, and prepare to go down the Devil’s Nose switch backs, one of the most impressive feats of rail engineering in the world, and back to Alausí, where a snack is served. From Alausí, continue south along the Andes by motorcar to Cuenca, visiting the Inca Ruins of Ingapirca to arrive at dusk, with a stop for lunch. Accommodation and all meals at the hotel in Cuenca.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

5th day: Cuenca

RAIL & ROAD JOURNEY IN THE ECUADORIAN ANDES:

Today guests will enjoy a full day to discover, at a leisurely pace, the beauty and charm for which Cuenca has been recognized as a World Cultural Heritage Site. Its red tiled roofs, cobblestone streets, flowery plazas and museums make it very special. Lunch is served at a cozy restaurant.

Meals included: Lunch.

6th day: Cuenca / Quito

RAIL & ROAD JOURNEY IN THE ECUADORIAN ANDES:

The day starts with a ride along the Santa Ana valley and then high in the mountains, through very scenic landscapes, which change at every curb. Stops are made at the small towns that produce a variety of handcrafts, such as artistic handmade guitars at San Bartolo and alongside orchards and sugar cane plantations, on to Chordeleg, famous for gold and silver jewelry. Then past the village of Gualaceo, follow the road along the banks of the Santa Barbara River, lined with weeping willows, to Bulcay where shawl and scarves are woven with the ancient technique of Ikat (tie dyed warp to form specific designs, on ancient shuttle looms. Visit lovely orchid gardens with over 2500 species and then lunch at an attractive hostel, surrounded by flowery gardens, close to the Paute River. After lunch, return to Cuenca on time to catch the return flight.

Flight from Cuenca to Quito.

Quito

Reception at the airport and transfer to the Hotel selected.

Shared Service.

Overnight at the hotel selected.

7th 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 even great 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.

8th day : Quito / Coca

Transfer from the hotel to the airport.

Flight from Quito to 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

9th 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

10th 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

11th day: Coca / Quito

SACHA LODGE

Today you will farewell this exotic destination.

Flight from Coca to Quito.

Quito

Reception at the airport and transfer to the Hotel selected.

Overnight at the hotel selected.

Meals included : Breakfast.

12th day: Quito

FREE DAY

Overnight at La Rabida hostel.

Meals included : Breakfast.

13th day: Quito / Galapagos Islands

Transfer from the hotel to the airport in Private Service.

Flight from Quito to Galapagos.

Galapagos Islands

SANTA CRUZ ISLAND:

Arrival by plane to Baltra Island and immediate transfer by bus (5 minutes) to the dock to board Santa Cruz Cruise. Cabins assignment and an introductory welcome talk. Later, lunch and ship’s boat drill. The north shore of Santa Cruz hosts Cerro Dragon (Dragon Hill). A dinghy ride among mangrove-lined islets allows the observation of the dramatic landscape and coastline, an area of amazing past volcanic activity. While exploring the nearby waters, various types of birds can be seen, such as boobies, frigates, pelicans. Quite commonly, the black lava will reveal the presence of marine iguanas. The navigation in shallow turquoise colored water gives the chance to see marine turtles, rays and sharks. Dry landing and a walk that includes a brackish water lagoon frequented by lagoon birds, including stilts, pintail ducks, sandpipers, sanderlings, and more. Further inland, the trail offers a beautiful view of the bay and the western area of the archipelago. This area is a natural nesting site for land iguanas, which is constantly monitored and assisted by the Charles Darwin Research Station. The arid-zone vegetation can be a rewarding location for birdwatching, where Darwin’s finches, Galapagos mockingbirds, the endemic Galapagos flycatcher, and yellow warblers are regular sightings. Return aboard, for our ECO Moment, will let us understand more about the islands, and our expedition plan will reveal the interesting sites of the day ahead.

Overnight at Santa’s Cruz Galapagos Cruise

Meals included : Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

14th day: Galapagos Islands

ISLAND BARTOLOMÉ & PUERTO EGAS:

Disembark at Bartolome Island (dry landing) for a hike to the summit. This is a steep climb aided by a wooden staircase; the view from the top is worth the effort. Panga ride around colossal Pinnacle Rock, time to enjoy the beach (wet landing) and snorkeling. Chance to snorkel next to Galapagos Penguins. There is also the possibility to ride on the glass bottom boat for great views of the underwater world. Lunch on board. Afternoon outing at Puerto Egas (wet landing). This is a great location to see particularly shore birds, while land birds can be observed a little more inland. The pitch black shores are great places for watching sea birds and their foraging duties. The trail brings us to a colony of the endemic Galapagos fur-sea lions. At low tide, marine iguanas graze upon emerald green algae beds. Outstanding snorkeling and swimming from the beach before the walk. ECO Moment and briefing.

Overnight at Santa Cruz Galapagos Cruise.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

15th day: Galapagos Island

SANTA CRUZ ISLAND, CHARLES DARWIN RESEARCH STATION & AYORA PORT:

Disembark at Rabida Island (wet landing) on a red-colored beach, due to the unusually high content of iron in the volcanic material. A gratifying stroll along the beach of this small island (1.9 sq. mi.) allows the observation of a large colony of sea lions, marine iguanas, mockingbirds, yellow warblers and several species of Darwin’s Finches. Very close to the beach, hidden behind a strip of green saltbush, is a salt pond where at times Greater Flamingos migrate to; these spectacular birds feed exclusively on the brine shrimp found in this saline pond. This is a great place to snorkel from the beach, both for beginners as well as for experienced snorkelers, due to the unique combination of underwater species and submarine landscapes. During navigation to our next island, we will keep our eyes open for dolphins. Afternoon disembarkation (dry landing) to visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and the rearing in captivity program for the giant tortoises. Here we witness the efforts and results of all the field work done in the name of science. Impressive giant prickly-pear cactus forest and many land birds can be also seen. Then, a stroll along the main street of Puerto Ayora will allow you to see how Galapagueños live in this magical paradise. Return aboard the SANTA CRUZ cruise for tonight’s ECO Moment, and expedition plan for next day’s adventure.

Overnight at Santa Cruz Galapagos Cruise.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

16th day: Galapagos Island

SANTA CRUZ ISLAND & SEYMOUR ISLAND:

A morning bus ride will take guests to the highlands of Santa Cruz Island for a special breakfast at a selected property. Then, guests have the opportunity to view the islands’ most famous reptile: the giant tortoises in their wild habitat. What a privilege to see an endangered species roving in this lush environment! The vegetation of the area includes the Scalesia Forest (an endemic giant daisy tree) and birds such as the vermilion flycatcher will delight everyone with its scarlet feathers against an emerald green forest. Look for Darwin’s finches (most of them from the tree-finch group), particularly the famous Woodpecker Finch. Back on board the SANTA CRUZ cruise. Today's afternoon starts with a dry landing for a view of the coast and the interior of North Seymour Island, one of the few uplifted islands in Galápagos Archipelago. The trail leads guests to explore colonies of blue footed boobies, magnificent frigate birds, and swallow-tail gulls. The sandy shore teems with Galápagos sea lions and marine iguanas. Vegetation is made up of cacti, Palo Santo trees and Salt Bushes. ECO Moment, and expedition plan for tomorrow’s outings.

Overnight at Santa Cruz Galapagos Cruise.

Meals included : Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

17th day: Galapagos Island / Quito

PUERTO BAQUERIZO MORENO, SAN CRISTÓBAL INTERPRETATION CENTER:

Disembark at Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. This small attractive port is the provincial capital of the Galapagos Islands (population 4,000), along a crescent-shaped bay. It was this very same island that Charles Darwin first visited, back in September 1835. Visit the San Cristóbal Interpretation Center, located in a natural setting, where it allows visitors to obtain information that will help them understand more the natural history of the Galapagos, with a great emphasis on human history and conservation. Afterwards, you can stroll through Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, where souvenir shops and Internet cafes welcome world travelers who are willing to catch up with the world, and share the many wonders witnessed, before heading back to the mainland. Transfer to the airport to take the flight back to the continent.

Shared Service.

Flight from Galapagos to Quito

Quito

Reception at the airport and transfer to the hotel selected.

Overnight at the hotel selected.

Meals included: Breakfast.

18th day: Quito / ...

Transfer from the hotel to the airport.

Meals included : Breakfast.