Itinerary

Click here to see hotel in Quito

Jun 5, 2007: Arrive Quito. Private Transfer Airport to Hotel. Overnight Eugenia.

Jul 6: Galapagos aboard the Coral II (D)
An early morning flight from Quito brings you to the Galapagos Archipelago. Upon arrival, you will be picked up and transferred to our yacht - your home for the next five nights. This afternoon we head to our first island and the beginning of a week filled with mysteries of the natural world.

Jun 7-9: Galapagos (B, L, D daily)
We visit 4 to 6 islands during our unforgettable voyage. Each day you leave the comfort of our yacht and go ashore in our panga (the local word for dinghies, Zodiacs, etc.) to remote areas of the islands for natural history walks through the Galapagos's unique ecology. Our crew takes excellent care of you with delicious meals and attends to all your creature comforts on board. On the islands our naturalist guide shows you the diversity of Galapagos life and teaches you about the area's natural history. This is everyone's chance to photograph unusual marine iguanas, snorkel with playful sea lions, and just take in the unique landscape of ancient volcanic turmoil. Except for a few settlements, the entire archipelago a national park and the beaches and meandering footpaths invite relaxation and fanciful dreams.

Jun 10: Galapagos to Quito (B)
This morning we say good-bye to Darwin's inspiration. Afterwards, transfer back to the airport for your late morning or early afternoon flight back to Quito.
Overnight in Quito

Onboard the Coral II
June 6 - Fly Baltra - Santa Cruz (Dragon Hill)
June 7 - Rabida - Santiago
June 8 - Fernandina - Isabela
June 9 - Bartolome - Black Turtle Cove
June 10 - Santa Cruz - Baltra - Fly Quito

Jun 11: Transfer to Bellavista
Bellavista protects 1800 acres of endangered cloud forest on the western slopes of the Andes. Bordering the Choco bio-region, the forest is part of something that scientists refer to as a biodiversity "hotspot" - a place of extreme biodiversity in danger of extinction. Explore the miles of trails in Bellavista, passing by waterfalls, steep ravines, and thick gardens of hanging epiphytes in search of some of the 320 bird species recorded here. You'll learn more about the area's complex ecology, what Bellavista is doing to protect it, and about the endangered mammals such as the spectacled bear, mountain lion, Andean coati, and others that take refuge here.
After an early breakfast, stop at Puluhua Volcano for a glimpse into the crater of this extinct volcano. Descend the scenic mountain road through the Avenue of Volcanoes. Stop at Pahuma Reserve for a short hike to a rushing waterfall and a visit to the colorful orchid displays. Arrive at Bellavista just in time for a gourmet lunch. After lunch, you can enjoy the flurry of hummingbirds or take a hike on the varied trails through this tropical cloudforest.

Jun 12: Bellavista
Take a guided walk to learn about the fascinating birdlife and complex vegetation of the cloudforest or enjoy the trails on your own. Hike to Discovery Falls or visit the geodesic dome for a 360 degree view of the cloudforest. Spend the evening on a night walk in search of nocturnal creatures.

Jun 13: Bellavista to Quito. Extra Night Hotel in Quito
Spend the morning relaxing near the lodge or on an adventurous hike to a waterfall hidden deep in the forest. After lunch, its back to Quito in time for an evening on the town!

Jun 14: Extra day Quito, Extra night hotel
A free day in Ecuador's capital city. A chance for you to explore historic cathedrals, tour the many museums, and sample the diverse food Quito has to offer. It's also an opportunity for you to catch up on your emails, correspondence, laundry or rest.

Jun 15: Hacienda Pinsaqui and Otavalo
We drive north to historic Hacienda Pinsaqui. The hacienda is nestled in the Otavalo valley in the shadow of Imbabura Volcano. From here we visit the white city of Ibarra, the leather shops of Cotacachi, or take horses around Cuicocha Lake. The 200-year old hacienda with its gardens and old textile shops is yours to explore.

Jun 16: Otavalo Market. Return to Quito. Extra night hotel in Quito
Indigenous people from the mountains descend into the valley to sell their crafts, textiles, cows, and goats in the tiny town of Otavalo. This is the most famous Indian market on the continent, and the good-hearted Otavaleños are certain to win your heart. Spend the day bargaining with the locals over fine sweaters, tapestries, and woodwork.

Jun 17: Return Home

 

Galapagos Articles & Information :
Galapagos Yachts | Island by Island Description | Charles Darwin Research Center | Galapagos Wildlife | Giant Tortoises| Land Iguanas | Interpretation Center | Galapagos Dive Options | Live Aboard Dive Only Departures | IGTOA - Longline Fishing