Our fourth day in Ecuador marks the day of our arrival in Baltra. We met Via Natura's Quito Airport representative, who assisted us with our flight check-in. We were truly grateful for his assistance.
Our arrival in Baltra was at 9:40 in the morning. As soon as we stepped foot inside the airport, we made our way to the line to pay the Galapagos National Park fee. This is mandatory for all visitors entering the Islands. It costs $100 per person, payable only in cash dollars. We were one of the last people in line, and our luggage were the ones left at the baggage claim area because we took videos and pictures a lot! Arrived at Baltra Airport, Galapagos! (Mai Caringal-Duran)
Upon exiting the small airport, our guide, Oswaldo, was already waiting for us. We took the Lobito bus together with two other passengers. We were taken to the Baltra port, where we boarded a zodiac/panga/dingy to embark on the Monserrat. While at the dock, we saw our very first sea lion. Dock where we get off the bus and rode the dinghy to Monserrat. Hi there, sea lion! (Marie Bunyi)
Our itinerary goes to the Central East and Southern Islands. After our lunch onboard, we began our first journey in the Galapagos Islands. We took a bus to El Chato Reserve, where we had our first glimpse of the famous giant Galapagos tortoises along the road on our way there. What a cool sight to see! El Chato is a private ecological reserve in Santa Cruz and is home to a large population of these tortoises in their natural environment. We first explored the lava tunnel and tubes, where we walked and climbed on slippery ground and saw fascinating formations inside. Then we proceeded to the place where these tortoises can be seen roaming around. We were told that people should always keep a 2-meter distance from all animals. I was in awe when Oswaldo mentioned that some of the turtles are 100-plus years old! Amazing! Some of them are lounging in the mud, some are sleeping, and some are eating grass. I think they are my spirit animal! Gentle giants - El Chato Ranch (Mai Caringal-Duran)
There were just nine of us during the first five days of our cruise: Mai and I, a couple from Denmark, a couple from the Netherlands, a couple from Australia, and a single traveler from Canada. A licensed Naturalist Guide is only allowed to assist a maximum of 16 travelers, so having Oswaldo and the rest of the ship's crew assist our small group is such a wonderful and private experience.
The pre-planning and execution of the plan was excellent. They were even able to help get glasses returned when a member or our party left them in a hotel.
Roger
3 weeks ago
I spoke with at least a half dozen other travel companies, looking for a Galapagos cruise that fit our schedule and budget. Some companies could manage one or the other, but Erin was the only one who could do both. She found us the perfect cruise, at a fantastic price! And she has been quick and patient with responses to my many questions. So far, Adventure Life has been a fantastic company to work with!
Sandi T
1 month ago
Erin was patient, thorough, responsive, knowledgeable.
Karen Bukolt
1 month ago
Erin was responsive, knowledgeable, helpful, and ran through a few different choices with us. She got us a fabulous price on a trip, and made everything easy to do. And QUICK!!
Tina
1 month ago
From the initial meeting and planning process with our trip planner Jess, through to the finalizing of our itinerary, trip details and questions, I was very impressed with the professionalism, thoroughness, organization and attention to details. I would highly recommend Adventure Life to anyone looking to plan a unique travelling experience, knowing that the expertise and experience provided will result in a seamless trip of a lifetime.
