Got up pretty early, back to the Quito airport, flight to Baltra. Our tour guide, Richard, was waiting for us and somehow picked us out of the crowd. Within minutes we were in a truck and headed to the boat ferry to take us to Santa Cruz Island. Then we headed up to the highlands, but stopped at a lava tube first to explore. I noticed the change in vegetation as we made it up to the highlands- there was more moisture in the air in the morning. We suddenly stopped on the side of the road and saw a couple of Holsteins- being a native Wisconsinite I wasn't too impressed until I saw the 400 pound tortoises five feet away wallowing in the mud and eating scrubby plants. I think I could have watched them for hours-it was amazing to be in the presence of these living dinosaurs. Richard explained the differences in the shells- smooth without white lines to pick out the oldest. We made our way to town- Puerto Ayora- but not before picking some grapefruit from the side of the road. The hotel looked just like it's picture and it's resident sea lion was lounging in a chaise by the pool- a couple of iguanas and a pelican were poolside too. We quickly changed and got in our inflatable ocean kayaks. We made our way along the coastline and in and out of little inlets- we saw multiple sharks and rays through the clear water. Back to the hotel for a dinner of very fresh fish. I can't believe we did so much in one day and we just got here.
I wasnt thrilled with the island choices offered on our dates but my friend suggested cruising and you have good reviews
Joyce Schiavo
1 month ago
Jess was very responsive and quick to address questions. She was patient when we wanted to make changes. We did check the BBB and found good reviews. We look forward to a fabulous Machu Picchu and Galapagos trip and hope to book many other trips with Adventure Life. Thank you.
Mary Westphal
1 month ago
Adventure life made it so easy to plan my trip. They were very professional and answered all of my question promptly and completely. They were also flexible in accommodating my changes to the trip.
J Rugg
1 month ago
Excellent information by company . Easy to book trip.
Jay Cohen
2 months ago
Excellent travel advice and service
This is my second experience working with Adventure Life. I’m sold. Jess Heuermann is an experienced traveler and provides a lot of useful information when planning a trip. These are the questions I like to ask at the outset - What’s it like to go here, there, what would you suggest, what do people report, can we add any additional side trips? Jess took the time to answer my questions and seek additional information to share with me. Petchie Colina is outstanding in helping with travel logistics and final preparations. Adventure Life has excellent guides and offers private guides and small group adventures. We enjoyed the opportunity to talk with the guides and drivers to learn more about their countries, cultures and histories. A highlight was having the guides pick local restaurants where we could share meals together. Highly recommend.
