Package Name: GALAPAGOS ADVENTURE TOURS
Price: $ 4,300/ p
Day: 8 Day
Night: 7 Night
Starting Month: Jan
End Month: Dec
Destination Overview :
Take this fascinating small-ship cruise around the Galápagos Islands of Ecuador. Your home for one week will be a 20-passenger luxury yacht, replete with cozy lodgings, expansive viewing decks and plenty of hamlets to soak in the setting sun. Venture from island to island each day with skilled local guided and learn the many facts and folklore behind the quirky flora and fauna animating the surrounding land and sea. Stretch your boat legs as you explore the spectacular volcanic terrain by foot and the rich coastal waters off-shore by snorkel. Get up-close-and-personal with the stunning terrain and exotic creatures that make the Galápagos Islands their home. Come nose to nose with a 600-pound, 150-year-old tortoise. Snorkel alongside warm-water penguins fishing off a rocky shore. Play hide and seek with a doe-eyed sea lion pup off the nose of your kayak. Marvel at the lava bombs, spatter cones, cinder cones and lava tubes on a hike to the top of an inactive volcano. Watch as a blue-footed booby dances in courtship. Explore wind and sea-swept volcanic rock, stepping carefully so as not to disturb the sunning iguanas. Raise a glass over the rail of your 83-foot, 20-passenger luxury motor-yacht, perfectly suited to navigate the islands’ pristine water. This eight-day, custom excursion guarantees to surprise, delight and enlighten the most curious of travelers, sending you home with an impressive collection of photos, knowledge and memories to last a lifetime. All the while, Omega’s signature touch of inspired, thoughtful service invites you to unwind and experience endless exceptional encounters with the curious, colorful wildlife and one of the world’s most well-preserved biological marine reserves. An adventure of a lifetime in the Galápagos Islands awaits you!
A FEW MORE REASONS WHY YOU’VE GOTTA GO…
1. For a step back in time: Follow in Darwin’s footsteps and experience first-hand where his Theory of Evolution all began.
2. The fearless wildlife: Without any natural predators, the raptors, reptiles and marine mammals of the Galapagos are clearly as interested in you as you are in them.
3. The giant tortoise: For a true definition of longevity, come face-to-face with the world’s most enduring creature (whose average life span is 150-175 years!).
4. Did we already mention the wildlife? Most of the animals seen on our Galapagos adventure tours can only be seen in this group of beautiful islands.
5. In-the-field expertise: From spinning fascinating regional interpretation to orchestrating seamless group dynamics, our guides keep their eyes on the details, ensuring that the toughest part of your vacation truly is going home.
Day
DAY 1: QUITO OR GUAYAQUIL / GALÁPAGOS – SAN CRISTOBAL ISLAND
Meals Included: L, D
Overnight: M/Y Eric, Flamingo, or Letty
Meet at the Quito or Guayaquil airport for your flight to Galápagos 1 ½ hours prior to your scheduled flight time.
Upon arrival to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, San Cristobal Island, our crew is waiting at the airport to escort you to your anchored yacht. After the welcome briefing, buffet lunch and safety drill, travel by bus into the interior of San Cristobal to visit La Galapaguera Cerro Colorado, where the National Park has established a breeding program for tortoises and set up an information center for visitors.
Along the trail, find the San Cristobal (Chatham) mockingbird and Calandrinia plant, both endemic to this island. Here, see the terrestrial tortoises living in their natural habitat but also learn about their origin, evolution and threats by introduced animals.
About the M/Y Eric, Flamingo I & Letty
Ecoventura’s signature fleet includes 3 identical expedition yachts custom-designed for Galapagos cruising: the M/Y Eric, Flamingo I and Letty.
Built in 1991 and refurbished annually, these identical superior first-class sister yachts accommodate no more than 20 guests and feature three decks of spacious staterooms with polished teak interiors trimmed with shiny brass fittings.
Accommodations include 10 double outside-facing cabins with a window or porthole view, 1 double bed or 2 twin lower beds, fully air-conditioned with private bathroom (hot and cold water showers), bio-degradable soap/shampoo dispensers, hair dryer, closet, drawers, intercom and separate climate controls for your comfort.
There’s a dining room, well-stocked bar and conference area with a flat screen TV, library and panoramic picture windows. Or you can relax in a lounge chair on the sun deck, enjoying sea breezes and a sky full of stars.
Enjoy with Ecoventura’s compliments
3 meals daily, snacks and non-alcoholic beverages
Captain’s welcome and farewell cocktail parties
House wine and local beer served during dinner
Guided excursions with English-speaking naturalist
Low guide to passenger radio (max 10 guests per guide)
Complimentary snorkeling equipment, 3mm custom wet suits and kayaks
DAY 2: TOWER / DARWIN BAY – GENOVESA ISLAND
Meals Included: B, L, D
Overnight: M/Y Eric, Flamingo, or Letty
Spend the entire day on Genovesa (Tower) Island, considered to be one of the most spectacular Islands in Galápagos for bird species.
Wet landing on Darwin Bay, a coral sand beach where Swallow-tailed and Lava gulls gather near tide pools.
Enter a forest of Optuntia cactus and mangroves where colonies of red-throated Great Frigate birds nest. The trail leads through a rich inter tidal zone where we find a wide diversity of wildlife.
After lunch, we have a dry landing at Prince Philip’s Steps where we’re welcomed by red-footed and Nazca boobies. Walk across an open lava field, home to large numbers of storm petrels and the elusive short-eared owl.
Sea kayak the shoreline looking for the beautiful Red-billed Tropic bird usually found in the crevices, then swim or snorkel from the beach with sea lions or for those with experience, snorkel in some deeper water.
Next stop: Return to the yacht for the briefing and dinner before we cross the equator.
DAY 3: LAS BACHAS BEACH OR BLACK TURTLE COVE & CERRO DRAGON – SANTA CRUZ
Meals Included: B, L, D
Overnight: M/Y Eric, Flamingo, or Letty
This morning visit Las Bachas (The Barges), where a long stretch of soft white sandy beach and interior lagoons tempt your curiosity.
Snorkel straight from the beach to explore your colorful underwater surroundings. Located on the northern tip of Santa Cruz is Cerro Dragon meaning Dragon Hill. Along the trail, search out Darwin Finches, Galapagos Flycatchers, Yellow Warblers, Audubon Shearwater and the endemic land iguanas, orange-yellow in color with large spines along their backs.
From the top of the hill, we enjoy a majestic view of the bay island covered in Opuntia cactus, Palo Santo and Cordia Lutea (muyuyu).
After the briefing and dinner, we sail toward the western islands and cross the equator line for the second time.
DAY 4: PUNTA ESPINOZA – FERNANDINA ISLAND / URBINA BAY – ISABELA ISLAND
Meals Included: B, L, D
Overnight: M/Y Eric, Flamingo, or Letty
This morning, we have a semi-wet landing at Punta Espinoza, Fernandina, the youngest and most pristine island in Galapagos where recent lava flows formed by an active volcano stretch their way around the coast.
Hundreds of marine iguanas, the largest colony in Galapagos, bask in the sun along the rugged shoreline. Observe sea lion harems with resident bulls carefully guarding their territory.
After lunch, cross the Bolivar Chanel where you may spot whales and dolphins riding the bow wave.
This afternoon explore Urbina Bay, home to very large and colorful Galapagos land iguanas. At Punta Vicente Roca, a Zodiac ride offers an incredible view of the tuff walls, as we enter wave-sculpted caves in search of sea turtles that frequent the area.
DAY 5: ELIZABETH BAY / TAGUS COVE – ISABELA ISLAND
Meals Included: B, L, D
Overnight: M/Y Eric, Flamingo, or Letty
This morning, we visit Elizabeth Bay by Zodiac starting with a visit to a secluded cove, lined with large red mangrove trees.
Motor to the rocky islets known as “Las Marielas”, where a colony of nesting Penguins, Flightless Cormorants and giant Marine Iguanas are found. We have a dry landing at Tagus Cove, located on the western Island of Isabela, created when 6 volcanoes flowed together and formed the largest island in Galapagos.
Discover a salt-water lagoon, a scenic overlook with a spectacular view of the ocean, lava fields, and volcanic formations. Ride the coves by Zodiac or kayak to find Galapagos Penguins, Boobies, Pelicans and other seabirds.
Finish off the day with an excellent snorkeling opportunity.
After dinner, a sky full of stars beckons you to go out on deck and observe the galaxy.
DAY 6: PUERTO EGAS – SANTIAGO ISLAND / RABIDA ISLAND
Meals Included: B, L, D
Overnight: M/Y Eric, Flamingo, or Letty
Wet landing at Puerto Egas, Santiago where you stroll along the shoreline looking for Octopus, Starfish and other sea life caught in the tide pools.
At low tide, catch a glimpse of Marine Iguanas as they feed on exposed green algae. Watch for Great Blue Herons, Lava Herons, American Oystercatchers and Yellow- crowned Night Herons.
End your walk at the grottos, deep pools of clear water, where you will encounter fur sea lions once on the verge of extinction. Before returning to the yacht, snorkel off the shores of the beach!
This afternoon, disembark on Rabida Island, the geographic center of Galapagos, which sports the most diversified volcanic rocks of all the islands. Follow a trail that leads to a salt water lagoon, and observe Greater Flamingos sunning themselves in the heat of the day.
Snorkel the crystal clear waters, keeping your eyes peeled for different kinds of tropical fish.
DAY 7: EL CHATO / CENTRO DE CRIANZA FAUSTO LLERENA – SANTA CRUZ ISLAND
Meals Included: B, L, D
Overnight: M/Y Eric, Flamingo, or Letty
On Day 7, we travel by bus to El Chato in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island, the scenery gradually changing as we wind our way through all 7 vegetation zones found in Galapagos.
Here, we visit the tortoise reserve at “Las Primicias” one of the private farms in the highlands where we encounter giant tortoises in their natural habitat.
Visit the Centro de Crianza Fausto Llerena (formerly the Charles Darwin Research Station) where you’ll see all three tortoise corrals and the breeding center with new hatchlings and miniature tortoises not yet ready to be repatriated.
Scientists from all over the globe work at the station and conduct biological research from anatomy to zoology. We also visit the Van Straelen Hall where there are exhibits and a short video presentation.
Afterward, walk through the town of Puerto Ayora, population 24,000, and the social heart of the islands.
DAY 8: GALÁPAGOS / GUAYAQUIL / QUITO – SAN CRISTÓBAL ISLAND
Meals Included: B
On Day 8, visit the Interpretation Center in San Cristóbal to learn more about the history of the Islands.
Next, head to the airport for a flight back to the mainland (departing San Cristobal at 11:20 am, arriving in Guayaquil at 2:15 pm – flight schedule subject to change).
Then, transfer to your hotel in Guayaquil or continue the flight on to Quito (arriving at 4:00 pm) to connect with your departing flight to the U.S.
Note: Additional options for pre- and post-tour packages are available, including Ecuadorian highlands and jungle extensions as well as a bare-bones add-on that just includes airport transfers, pre-cruise lodging in Quito and post-cruise lodging in Quito or Guayaquil. Please call your Austin Adventures trip consultant (800.575.1540) for complete details.
* This trip is operated in partnership with Ecoventura. There are more itinerary options available – please call for complete details.
** Trip itineraries are subject to change without notice due to road, weather and other factors outside of our control, for the safety and enjoyment of our guests, as deemed necessary and appropriate by our tour operators.
Stop daydreaming and start planning your adventure today. Confirmed departure dates and rates are listed below. We look forward to seeing you soon!
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8 DAYS/7 NIGHTS
from $4,300 / person
RECOMMENDED TRAVEL MONTHS
Jan-Feb-Mar-Apr-May-Jun-Jul-Aug-Sep-Oct-Nov-Dec
THINGS TO CARRY:
1. Trekking Bag
2. Best Quality Hiking Shoes (Quechua Forclaz 500 or similar)
3. Crocs Shoes for rest days
4. Knapsack / Backpack / Rucksack
5. Sleeping Bag
6. Thermals – Top and Bottom
7. Moisturizer
8. Sunblock (SPF 50 and above) and Lip Salve with Sunblock
9. UV Protected Sun Glasses are a must
10. Trekking Poles, 2 units
11. Water disinfection Drops / Tablets to purify water so that you can use for drinking purpose. (If you don’t get it in India, there are plenty available in Kathmandu)
12. Good jacket to protect from cold
13. One Windcheater
14. One Raincoat OR Waterproof Jacket and Trouser
15. 4 passport photos for permit
16. Passport for Foreign nationals, Indian can carry Voter ID or Passport
17. Lightweight Towel (1 unit)
18. Toilet Paper (plenty)
19. Wet-Tissue Papers (plenty)
21. Trekking Socks
22. Dry Fruits and Chocolates
We recommend and request using natural stream water for drinking purpose. This can be purified using the water purifying drops / tablets. We have two reasons to request this to you, 1: It helps in not dumping plastic in the world’s remotest area and 2: its saves thousands of rupees as mineral water price is very high in trekking zone.
INCLUDED IN THE TRIP PRICE
Cabin accommodation on board.
All breakfasts, lunches and dinners, snacks and refreshments.
Non-alcoholic beverages and filtered water throughout cruise / House wine and beer with dinner.
Fully trained, bilingual, professional guides and knowledgeable local partners.
Guided shore excursions.
Use of snorkeling equipment, wet suits, and sea kayaks.
Transports between the airport and dock in Galápagos.
Austin Adventures T-shirt & luggage tags.
Pre-departure and packing information.
NOT INCLUDED IN TRIP PRICE
Gratuities to Ecoventura guides & crew.
Alcoholic beverages.
Transfer to Quito or Guayaquil airport from your pre-trip hotel.
Airfare to Galapagos & airfare fuel surcharge.
Galapagos Entrance Fee & Transit Card.
Pre-and post-trip accommodations/packages and associated expenses.
Air and land transportation to/from host cities.
All types of personal insurance.
Personal expenses & purchases on board / from boutique.
OUR PARTNER
ECOVENTURA
Omega Adventures is proudly offering this trip in conjunction with our Ecuadorian partner Ecoventura as well as Austin. Each year, Ecoventura carries thousands of nature enthusiasts to the Galápagos Islands. As Ecoventura enters its second decade of operation, we reflect back to 1990 when boat builders outfitted their first two 20-passenger vessels, Eric and Flamingo. In 1994 they launched their third sister yacht, Letty. In 2001 they launched the M/V Galapagos Sky, a custom-designed dive live-aboard. Clearly, Ecoventura holds a solid reputation for delivering personalized service, value and a high level of guest satisfaction. Ecoventura’s participation in the Smart Voyager environmental certification program ensures that all vessels, passengers and crew members commit to preserve the Galápagos National Park and to respect the fragile ecosystem that, worldwide, is recognized as a “living laboratory of evolution.” Offering unmatched comfort and safety, Ecoventura, delivers the enchantment of the Galápagos with a dedication to details that will make your journey fun, comfortable and truly rewarding.
DEPARTURE
Please arrive in Quito no later than the evening prior to your cruise (we recommend arriving a minimum of 2 nights to allow for potential flight delays and misconnection).
Flights to Galapagos for Ecoventura’s passengers are serviced by AEROGAL Airlines from Quito and Guayaquil.
On the day of departure, please be at the airport in Quito or Guayaquil one and a half hours prior to departure for check-in.
Please look for the Ecoventura representative at the AEROGAL Airline ticket counter to collect your boarding pass, transit card (if prepaid) and get assistance with check in.
On your last day, head to the airport for a flight back to the mainland (departing San Cristobal at 11:20 am, arriving in Guayaquil at 2:15 pm – flight schedule subject to change)
Transfer to your hotel in Guayaquil or continue the flight on to Quito (arriving at 4:00 pm) to connect with your departing flight to the U.S.
If you would like assistance in arranging your pre or post cruise details, please contact your Omega Adventures trip consultant.
ACTIVITIES
Hiking: 1 to 2 miles per hike, easy to moderate terrain.
Sea Kayaking: No experience necessary.
Snorkeling: Equipment provided, no experience necessary.
Boating: Inflatable Zodiac touring with naturalist guide.
MEALS
The hallmark of our Adventures vacation is our exceptional dining. All meals: breakfasts, lunches, snacks, dinners, refreshments and receptions are included as indicated by itinerary. (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner). Most alcoholic beverages and related gratuities are not included in the trip price.
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