When we began hiking up the volcano this morning we were surrounded by fog. Our guide cautioned us that the weather was out of our control so we may or may not see the crater below. Also, we encountered some rain along the way but after the sun came out we were panting in the heat. So we were thankful to have a daypack with everything necessary for the changing weather conditions: light rain coat, long sleeve lightweight shift, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, camera and lots of water.
Our first view of the caldera was a bit masked by clouds.
But on our hike back we were able to see it all!
On the far side of our hike we descended down into the lava fields and it felt like we were walking on another planet! One of the benefits of doing a land tour is that you arrive before all the people on the cruises do. You escape the heat of the afternoon that way as well. As we ascending out of the lava flows we encountered several groups of tourists melting in the sunshine. The black lava rocks radiated heat from below as well. Our guide stopped periodically along the route to explain some of the formations. Altogether it was a fascinating experience and I was grateful as we looked out over the islands to see the tiny ships dotting the coast.
That afternoon we arrived back to the Iguana Crossing hotel and enjoyed some free time. Matt and I walked a couple minutes down the road for a casual happy hour along the beach. The iguanas were plentiful and lent a different feel to the typical tropical bar scene. We knew we were still in the Galapagos.
Adventure Life is always an excellent choice when planning complicated, extreme, or exotic vacations or expeditions. They provide friendly professional services and advice and are enthusiastic and encouraging in helping us to prepare and thoroughly enjoy our trip. They handle all the details which greatly reduces the stress of planning a difficult trip. I'm very impressed with Adventure Life and definitely recommend them to friends and family.
Scott Trochim
2 days ago
The response from Adventure Life to my first inquiry was prompt and promising. I worked with Jamie Broeckel, Trip Planner, via text, email, and phone calls- always extremely responsive and thorough with information and explaining the process to arrange a private tour for me to Malaysia Borneo. Within about week, the booking was complete and I made decisions because of Jamie's great customer service , friendly manner, and overall competence on behalf of the company's travel expertise. Now I have an itinerary, additional Trip Planner Assistants, several links for vital information for traveling to Maylasia, etc. Still many details for Sept. trip, but now the heavy lifting is done and I can enjoy the rest of the anticipation and research!! Thanks Jamie- you are amazing!!!!
Susan Campo
4 days ago
The trip was not only memorable for the amount of animals we saw but also for the people and accommodations at the two camps where we stayed. Our first guide, BK, was a wealth of information about the animals, landscape and down to the plants and what they were used for. Everyday out was a learning experience with him. All the people at the camps were gracious and the food was excellent.
Our second camp in the Okavanga was just as good as the first as far as the staff, accommodations, food and animals. After our experience at the first camp we amazed that the high quality remained the same. Our guide, G, made sure we were able to enjoy every experience including a rush through the bush to witness a cheetah and an ensuing hunt that he heard over his radio.
In both camps there were enough guides out that if they saw something the other guides were informed which helped in seeing as much as possible. It was also nice that the concessions were large enough that we did not have vehicles following each other throughout the day.
Normally there is always something in a trip of this length that we think could be improved upon but this is the rare case where we cannot think of anything. From the time we left the States to when we returned it was one of the most hassle free vacations we took.
Perhaps emphasizing the use of the laundry facilities at the camps would be useful because of the luggage restrictions would be the only thing I can think of as an improvement to future clients.
Kenneth Dropek
5 days ago
Mary was so pleasant and professional. She made sure all of our questions were answered.