ECUADOR & GALAPAGOS

Departures

Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands, provide for a fascinating and extremely varied itinerary. In Ecuador we shall discover Quito and the high Andes, an ancient Indian culture and a Spanish colonial history, magnificent scenery and delightful crafts. This is a photographer's paradise with village and market scenes contrasted with the majestic peaks of the Andes Mountains. Members will also have the option to visit the Amazon Basin on a 4 day excursion to Sacha Lodge, a highlight for previous groups.

From Quito we shall journey 600 miles across the Pacific and discover for ourselves the mystery of the Galapagos Islands, the origins of these volcanic islands, the stark beauty of their landscapes and the unique flora and fauna that inhabit their shores. The native population, consisting of seals, iguanas, tortoises, and a vast array of bird-life, play freely in the security of their environment, as if on show for us.

We have limited space on this very special tour and we urge you to enrol early. Previous departures sold out in just a few weeks. This unique journey is truly a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Itinerary

------- OPTIONAL PRE-TOUR EXTENSION: THE AMAZON -------
Members can arrange their tour with a side trip to the Amazon with three nights at Sacha Lodge and an extra night in Quito.

November 2, Monday: Depart CANADA
Our journey begins as members from across Canada fly to Quito, capital of Ecuador. The northern capital of the Incas, and a 16th century Spanish colonial city, Quito has had a varied and fascinating history. Today it is a storehouse of elegant churches, ancient monasteries, colonial mansions, fascinating antiques and hand-crafted Indian artefacts. Colon Hilton Hotel (2 nights)

November 3, Tuesday: QUITO
Our morning tour will introduce us to the highlights of this beautiful Andean city. Visit impressive San Agustin Monastery and ornate La Compania Church followed by a panoramic view of the city from Panecillo Hill. A highlight of our morning tour will be a visit to the Archaeological Museum, covering 10,000 years of history. Following lunch, return to hotel with some free time in the afternoon.
[BD]

November 4, Wednesday: QUITO / OTAVALO
This morning, we drive north, passing through rich farmlands and past dramatic mountain scenery, to the village of Otavalo, South America's most unique and famous Indian market. This evening we stay at the quaint Hacienda Cusin (or similar).
[BLD]

November 5, Thursday: OTAVALO / QUITO
Visit the world famous silent market of Otavalo, where sellers barter with their hands - a marked contrast to the raucous babble of other markets. We will have ample time to bargain for colourful ponchos, woollen goods and Indian jewellery. Our return journey will include visits to the artisan village of Calderon, where delightful dough figurines are made into Christmas decorations and the village of San Antoni de Ibarra, famous for its wood carvings, Cotacachi, noted for its leather products, and Peguche, where textiles are hand-woven on shuttle looms. This evening we are back in Quito. Colon Hilton Hotel (1 night)
[BL]

November 6, Friday: QUITO / RIOBAMBA
Departing Quito on the “Chiva Express”, a rail car that resembles a bus on rail tracks, we head south following the Avenue of the Volcanoes and the Pan American Highway past Cotopaxi, which, at 19,000 feet, is one of the highest volcanoes in the world. We continue via Chimborazo and Urbina, the highest point on the rail journey, before we reach Riobamba, where we have a brief tour of the city. Hosteria Abraspungu (or similar)
[BLD]

November 7, Saturday: INGAPIRCA / CUENCA
Reboard the Chiva Express for a scenic ride through magnificent countryside to Alausi and over the Devil's Nose. Continuing by coach we visit Ingapirca, a beautifully preserved Incan fortress and temple complex that offers spectacular views over the Andes. Later we arrive in Cuenca, a gem of colonial heritage. From its adobe walls and tile roofs, to the warm cobblestones and wedding cake churches, we will feel that we have stepped back into history. Hotel El Dorado (or similar)
[BLD]

November 8, Sunday: CUENCA / QUITO
On our morning walking tour we will see the historic buildings that line the Tomebomba River and visit one of the local art museums to see samples of the exquisite local handicrafts - weaving, embroidery, ceramics and straw. See the colourful flower market and the Plaza Calderon, the central square surrounded by the new and old cathedrals. After lunch we hope to visit a workshop to see the making of fine Panama hats and visit the Museum of the Central Bank before we head to the airport for our late afternoon flight up the length of the Andes to Quito. Hilton Colon Hotel (1 night)
[BL]

November 9, Monday: QUITO / GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
This is the day that we have been anticipating, as we fly westward across the Pacific to the Galapagos Islands, some 600 miles away. On arrival we transfer to the mv Santa Cruz, the best-equipped vessel sailing these islands and our home for 4 nights. Designed to hold just 90 passengers, our ship is fully air-conditioned, has a lounge and dining room, and all cabins have private facilities. Following a light lunch, we explore the shores of Santa Cruz on a dinghy passing through the clear waters and going ashore to visit Dragon Hill, home to a variety of land iguanas and birds. This evening we enjoy dinner as we cruise.
[BLD]

November 10, Tuesday: BARTOLOME / JAMES ISLAND
Our morning visit is to Bartolome Island, where we can climb to the top of Pinnacle Rock, offering wonderful views of the neighbouring islands. Stroll through the lava beds of the extinct volcanoes, enjoy a swim from the sandy beach and view colonies of penguins and sea lions. In the afternoon we visit Puerto Egas on James Island, the most important island for viewing fur sea lions, shore birds, hawks and Galapagos doves. We can also enjoy a swim or snorkelling where we might see sea turtles, rays or even a small shark.
[BLD]

November 11, Wednesday: RABIDA & SANTA CRUZ ISLANDS
Disembark at Rabida Island (wet landing) this morning, we head ashore to explore the beach (great swimming) or head inland in search of land birds and lava floes. The landscape, created by volcanic activity, makes for a most interesting walk. After lunch on board we shall continue our visits with a stop at Santa Cruz Island to visit the Darwin Research Station and the rearing in captivity program for the giant tortoises. Here we will witness the efforts and results of all the filed work done in the name of science. There will be an opportunity to stroll along the main street of Puerto Ayora to see how Galapaguenos live in this magical paradise.
[BLD]

November 12, Thursday: SANTA CRUZ ISLAND & NORTH SEYMOUR
A morning bus ride will take us to the highlands of Santa Cruz Island for a special breakfast at a selected property. We will 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! This 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 Galapagos Archipelago. We’ll explore colonies of blue footed boobies, magnificent frigate birds, and swallow-tail gulls. The sandy shore teems with Galapagos sea lions and marine iguanas.
[BLD]

November 13, Friday: SAN CRISTOBAL / QUITO
Debarking at Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, the island’s capital, we spend some time at the San Cristobal Interpretation Centre to learn more about the region’s history and ecological activities before flying back to Quito. Colon Hilton Hotel (1 night)
[B]

November 14, Saturday: QUITO / CANADA
Our journey draws to a close as we catch our morning flights to our homes across Canada.
[B]

October 29, Thursday: CANADA / QUITO (Optional)
Tour members will depart today and fly to Quito where they will be met and transferred to their hotel. Colon Hilton (1 night)

October 30, Friday: QUITO / SACHA LODGE
Members will transfer to the airport for the short flight to Puerto Francisco de Orellano. Travel by boat down the Napo River to the 5000 acre private reserve. Cross Pilchicocha Lake to Sacha Lodge, your comfortable home for the next three nights. Rooms feature private bathrooms with showers, ceiling fans, and porches with hammocks overlooking the rainforest. There will be time to relax before the welcome briefing and dinner.
[BLD]

Oct 31 & Nov 1, Saturday & Sunday: SACHA LODGE
These days will be spent exploring the reserve with a naturalist guide. Enjoy walks through the pristine jungle, surrounded by 150 foot high trees, visit the butterfly farm to learn about these delicate creatures, paddle in a dugout canoe along an ancient oxbow lake in search of luxuriant lianas, bromeliads and other native palm trees. Be sure to visit the observation tower where you stand on top of the rainforest canopy and learn about this ecological wonder. Observe toucans, parrots and dozens of other birds and, with some luck, the infamous howler monkeys, foraging squirrel monkeys or the gentle three-towed sloth. Those interested may go in search of caiman or anaconda or try their luck at fishing for piranha! (BLD daily)
[BLD]

November 2, Monday: AMAZON / QUITO
Return to Quito and the Hilton Colon Hotel, in time to meet the balance of the group arriving from Canada.

AMAZON EXTENSION- per person, sharing twin.............................$1,265

Note - Cat 2 & 4 cabins have twin beds or 1 double bed.

CRAIG RATING FOUR: On this tour we will spend most of our time close to the equator. However, due to high altitudes in Ecuador and the cooling currents near the Galapagos, we can expect pleasant temperatures. During the cruise we will travel to shore in small boats and will likely experience a number of wet landings. During the time in the central highlands we will be between 7,000 and 10,000 feet above sea level (altitude sickness). If taking the Amazon extension, members can expect high temperatures and humidity and some difficult walking conditions. Because of the many different and sometimes difficult travel conditions that will be experienced during this tour, it is vital that all tour members be in good physical health.

Single cabins are not available on the cruise - passengers may share on cruise and have singles on land portion, subject to confirmation - rates are available on request.

Prices are based on rates effective January 2009 and are subject to change. Tour cost and deposit includes the cost of comprehensive insurance ($225 pp) for passengers under 86 years of age at time of travel. Cancellations of any booking prior to July 25, 2009 will be subject to an Administration Fee of $50pp – this fee is not covered by our insurance. Insurance coverage will begin on July 25/09 and will cover penalties from that date forward. Contact our office for full details. Final payment will be due on August 23, 2009.

Tour Costs (CDN$/person)

Rates from other cities are also available upon request.
Tour price is based on sharing a twin-bedded room at hotels and a standard outside twin cabin on Upper Deck (Cat 1)

Inclusive Features

To enroll on this tour simply complete our online enrollment form or alternatively complete the enrollment form found at the back of our brochure and return it with your deposit of $1000 per person to Craig Travel's office.