Bucketlist Galápagos

Bucketlist Galápagos

Embark on a remarkable 10-day adventure exploring the vibrant culture of Quito and the breathtaking landscapes of the Galápagos Islands.

Begin your journey in Quito, Ecuador's enchanting capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site set high in the Andes. Stroll through the scenic Old Town, filled with museums, churches, monuments, plazas, and lush parks. Savor exquisite chocolate tastings, hike forest trails with stunning views of volcanoes and valleys, and browse lively markets offering beautifully crafted handicrafts, ponchos, ceramics, and artisan chocolates.

Next, travel to the Galápagos Islands, a ‘living laboratory’ famous from Charles Darwin's studies. This extraordinary archipelago features lunar-like landscapes, rugged vegetation, pristine beaches, and thriving wildlife, including marine iguanas, sea lions, giant tortoises, and a diverse range of birds such as the blue-footed booby, frigate bird, and flightless cormorant.

This extraordinary journey, ideal for wildlife and nature enthusiasts, promises an unforgettable experience.

Day by day

Day 1 - 2 : Quito

Upon arrival in Quito, a representative will greet you and escort you to your hotel. Set amidst the Andean peaks and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Quito features outstanding museums, churches, and art galleries. Start your exploration in the city center, moving from Quito’s modern areas to the historic district. Experience the Plaza de la Independencia, surrounded by the Presidential Palace, the Cathedral, the Archbishop's Palace, and the City Hall. Wander by El Sagrario Church and marvel at the stone facade of La Compañía Church. Visit the Church of San Francisco, built on the site of an Inca palace in the 16th century.

Enjoy a chocolate tasting at Galeria Ecuador, where you’ll learn about cacao cultivation and make your own chocolate truffles. After this, head to Cafe Plaza Grande for a cooking class to delve into Ecuador’s culinary traditions. Following a delicious lunch, visit the Equatorial Monument, which commemorates French scientists who determined the Earth’s shape in the 1700s. Nearby, the Ethnographic Museum showcases the diverse ethnic groups of Ecuador.

Day 3 - 5 : Santa Cruz Island, Española Island & San Cristobal Island

After breakfast, head to the airport for your flight to the Galápagos Islands. On arrival at Baltra Island, proceed to the dock to board the luxurious Integrity Yacht. Explore the breathtaking islands:

  • Santa Cruz Island: Spot giant tortoises in their natural environment, look for Darwin’s finches, and visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn about conservation efforts.
  • Española Island: Relax on the white sandy shores of Gardner Bay, swim or snorkel with colorful fish, turtles, sea lions, and possibly small sharks, and take in the diverse wildlife from Punta Suárez.
  • San Cristobal Island: Visit the olive-green beach at Punta Pitt, observe various bird species, enjoy a panga ride along the cliffs of Cerro Brujo, explore a coral sand beach, and cruise around Kicker Rock for stunning sunset views.

Map

Tierras Altas de Santa Cruz | Giant tortoise | Galapagos Islands
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Bahía de Ballenas | Whale | Galapagos Islands
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Lobos Island | Sea Lions | Galapagos Islands
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Cruise Includes

Accommodation
Three meals daily
Soft drinks, house wines, local brand spirits and beers, teas and coffees, and refreshments on excursions
All excursions including panga tours, hikes, island visits, beach walks, visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station, sea kayaking and snorkelling (included snorkelling gear: short wetsuit, mask, snorkel and fins)
Guides' Journal with illustrations of fauna and flora to record your sightings
Area map with illustrated Star Birds checklist
Emergency medical evacuation insurance
VAT
VIP Lounge at the Galapagos’ airports, road transfers to and from Galapagos Airport (Baltra or San Cristóbal Island)
Limited laundry
Internet (via Starlink)
Private English speaking local guides in Quito.
Private transportation in the best available vehicles in each city

Cruise does not include

Administration fee
Telephone calls
All items of a personal nature
Flights to and from the Galapagos Islands
Gratuities
Champagne, cognacs, fine wines, premium brand spirits and cigars
Landing fees
Travel insurance
Park fees
Migratory card
Early check-in or late check-out charges
Items of personal nature like laundry, phone calls, etc.
Any video/still camera fee during the trip
Tipping, Drinks, Excess of baggage

Highlights

Giant Tortoises on Santa Cruz: See these massive reptiles in their natural environment and learn about their conservation at the Charles Darwin Research Station.
Snorkeling with Galápagos Penguins: Swim alongside these charming penguins and other marine life in the clear waters of Bartolomé Island.
Panoramic Views from Pinnacle Rock: Climb to the top of Bartolomé Island for stunning views of Pinnacle Rock and the surrounding Galápagos landscape.
Galapagos Explorer
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Enquire now

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Departure Dates

Start DateEnd DateItineraryDuration
2024-10-142024-10-21B - West8 days
2024-10-212024-10-28A - East8 days
2024-10-282024-11-04B - West8 days
2024-11-042024-11-11A - East8 days
2024-11-112024-11-18B - West8 days