DISTINCTIVE ECUADOR & GALÁPAGOS

Transcription

1 DISTINCTIVE ECUADOR & GALÁPAGOS

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3 NO. DATE LOCATION DETAILS MEALS HOTEL NTS 1 Day 01 QUITO Arrive into Quito & transfer to your hotel - La Casona de la Ronda 2 Day 02 Half day city and equator tour B La Casona de la Ronda 2 Day 03 COTOPAXI Drive to Cotopaxi with excursions en-route BLD La Cienega 1 3 Day 04 RIOBAMBA Drive to Riobamba with excursions en-route BLD Hosteria Abraspungo 1 4 Day 05 CUENCA Drive to Cuenca with excursions en-route BL Santa Lucia 1 5 Day 06 GUAYAQUIL Drive to Guayaquil with excursions en-route B Oro Verde 1 6 Day 07 GALÁPAGOS Fly to Galápagos and board your cruise boat Afternoon excursion to Mosquera BD Santa Cruz II 7 Day 08 Morning excursion to Puerto Baquerizo Afternoon excursion to Punta Pitt BLD Day 09 Morning excursion to Santa Fe Afternoon excursion to South Plaza Island BLD Day 10 Morning excursion to Puerto Ayora & Charles Darwin Station BLD Afternoon excursion to Santa Cruz Day 11 Morning excursion to Punta Suarez Afternoon excursion to Gardner Bay BLD Day 12 Morning excursion to Eden Islet Afternoon excursion to North Seymour Island BLD 5 Day 13 GUAYAQUIL Fly back to the mainland Transfer to your hotel BLD Oro Verde 1 Day 14 DEPART Meet your KLM return flight B - - Day 15 HOME Arrive back in the UK

4 Day 01 Depart flying with KLM. LONDON HEATHROW AMSTERDAM - QUITO KL1000 KL0751 Economy Economy Dep: Heathrow 06:30 Dep: Amsterdam 10:00 Arr: Amsterdam 09:00 Arr: Quito 14:40 Private transfer on arrival to your hotel. La Casona de la Ronda 1 x Standard Room on a Bed & Breakfast basis for 2-nights With an excellent location in the heart of the Old Town, La Casona de la Ronda is an 18 th Century colonial style house recently converted into a lovely boutique hotel. The 22 rooms are arranged around a central courtyard and are bright and airy, with Wi-Fi internet & LCD TV, some have seating areas and city views. The interiors include wooden furnishing and parquet floors. Drinks from the bar and the coffee shop can be enjoyed in the garden and on the terrace. Day 02 QUITO Private half day city tour including the Middle of the World Monument A UNESCO World Heritage site, Quito, the capital of Ecuador has retained much of its colonial past. Steep cobbled stone streets, ornate churches and fine plazas are all to be found in the old district of town. The modern new town is the business district and this is where you will find the best shopping and restaurants. The city was founded in 1534 and has a wonderful setting at the base of the Pichincha Volcano. In the distance the snow-capped peak of Cotopaxi and its surrounding national park dominates the horizon. The Equatorial Monument 25 km North of Quito, marks the exact Middle of the World, latitude 0º, where you can stand with a foot on each hemisphere. Visit the Ethnographic Museum inside the monument, which shows the great diversity of Ecuador s native groups. Beside the monument there is a colonial-style town, complete with main square, church, post office, bullring, cafeterias, restaurants and many gift shops that sell postcards and souvenirs. 4

5 Day 03 QUITO COTOPAXI Shared full day transfer to the hotel with excursions en-route You will depart early travelling along the Pan-American Highway south of Quito, to visit the Cotopaxi National Park, an ecological sanctuary of 88,920 acres, set around the magnificent Cotopaxi Volcano, which rises 5897m (19,347 feet) above sea level. The evergreen landscape of the Ecuadorian highlands is one of the main attractions, along valleys and mountains covered by multi-coloured fields. After an hour and a half you ll reach the entrance to the park and drive up a dirt road for approximately an hour. Upon arrival at the park you will have an introductory briefing about the habitat of the Andean paramo (moorlands), its flora and fauna in the small Interpretation Centre. Continue onto Limpiopungo Lagoon to observe a variety of birds and occasionally wild horses. On clear days, the Cotopaxi Volcano is the backdrop. A short walk around the lagoon allows the observation of the Andean flora. Hacienda La Ciénega 1 x Standard Room on a Half Board basis for 1-night One of Ecuador's most famous haciendas, this enchanting 400 year old hacienda is on the slopes of Cotopaxi and has hosted many of Ecuador's former presidents as well as Alexander von Humboldt, founder of modern geography. The hotel is richly furnished with antique furniture and ornaments, and the whole place exudes an air of peaceful elegance. There is also a restaurant whose window-lined walls look out onto the lovely garden courtyard beyond. This is a truly special place to stay. 5

6 Day 04 COTOPAXI - RIOBAMBA After breakfast travel along the gorge of the Pastaza River to the town of Baños (Baths), right at the foot of Tungurahua Volcano, from where the thermal waters that gave it its name emerge. Drive to the Cascades to El Pailón del Diablo (the Devil's Cauldron), where the most adventurous can descend (medium difficulty) to observe the impressive cascade up close, surrounded by subtropical vegetation and orchids. The force and sound of the waters can also be appreciated from a lookout point without descending. Lunch is served at a local hacienda, in the afternoon enjoy a short stroll through Baños. From here, the route to Riobamba is up the mountain, to where the clouds can be touched. Alongside the massive Chimborazo, the highest mountain of Ecuador, on the high paramo where vicuñas graze and scamper - this is a protected Faunistic Preserve. Great photo ops on this route! Arrive into Riobamba. Hosteria Abraspungo 1 x Standard Room on a Bed & Breakfast basis for 1-night This attractive hostería is located in the Abraspungo Valley near Riobamba. Decorated in traditional Ecuadorian countryside style, the 26 guest rooms, bearing the names of Ecuadorian mountains, are spacious and comfortable. The property is surrounded by peaceful gardens and there is a lovely atmospheric bar and restaurant serving delicious country food. This is a pleasant place to stay prior to travelling on-board the Devils Nose train. 6

7 Day 05 RIOBAMBA - DEVIL S NOSE TRAIN RIDE - INGAPIRCA RUINS - CUENCA After an early breakfast you will depart by road, skirting the flanks of the Andes, an astonishing ride, twisting and turning, along bridging ravines and river gorges. You will ride through Indian villages and cultivated fields where most of the cereals in Ecuador are grown, among them, the quinoa, considered the perfect grain for its nutritional value. After about two hours you will arrive at the small town of Alausí; the beating heart of the rehabilitation of the Ecuadorian Railway Company in the last years. Great effort has been made to restore the 100 year old train to its old glory and romance. The highlight of this excursion is the thrilling 800m (2630ft) descent on the zigzag cuttings on the rock of the Devil's Nose. At the bottom one finds the newly renovated Station of Sibambe. You will visit the local museum "Condor Puñuna" built and run by the Nizag community, see the display of local handcrafts, fruit and medicinal plants and try the local coffee. The train whistle calls guests back on board for the return to the Station of Alausí, where a light snack is served to regain strength. You will continue exploring the Andean world by motor coach to the south, visiting the Inca Fortress of Ingapirca en-route. Lunch will be in the area. You will have dinner and accommodation at Cuenca. Hotel Santa Lucia 1 x Standard Room on a Bed & Breakfast basis for 1-night Built by the first governor of Cuenca in 1859, the Santa Lucia is one of the city s most historic buildings. Now converted into a charming colonial boutique 20 room hotel, the Santa Lucia is conveniently located in a peaceful street five minutes from the city centre. The hotel is centred round a lovely internal courtyard which houses the hotel s excellent restaurant 7

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9 Day 06 CUENCA - EL CAJAS NATIONAL PARK - GUAYAQUIL Shared half day city tour Discover the beauty and charm for which Cuenca has been recognised as a World Cultural Heritage site. Its red tiled roofs, cobblestone streets, flowery plazas and museums give this atmospheric renaissance town a relaxed, special feel. The architecture is captivating and the people friendly. Similar to Quito but without the hordes of people, Cuenca is without doubt one of South America s most captivating destinations After you tour you will take a shared road transfer to El Cajas National Park. This area is known for its beautiful landscapes with at least 200 lagoons, like the famous La Toreadora. After lunch, continue on to Guayaquil and your next hotel. Oro Verde 1 x Standard Room on a Bed & Breakfast basis for 1-night A member of The Leading Hotels of the World, the five-star Oro Verde is conveniently located in the downtown heart of the city. The hotel has 230 luxury rooms, three restaurants, a bar, delicatessen, room service, a Club Floor, swimming pool, fitness centre and shops. 9

10 Day 07 QUITO BALTRA Private transfer to the airport for your onward flight with LAN Ecuador. XL1415 Economy Dep: Quito 08:45 Arr: Baltra 11:20 (local time) Luggage restrictions: One piece of checked luggage (20kg max) per person and 1 carry-on (7kg max) per person. Please Note: Flight numbers and times are subject to change. Your flight will touch down in Guayaquil en-route. Arrive to Baltra Island and transfer to the dock to board the Santa Cruz II where you will receive your welcome introductory briefing and lunch. M/V Santa Cruz II Information on your boat is found on page 9 10 of this quote. The itinerary continues on page 11 of this quote. Afternoon excursion to Mosquera After lunch and your introductory briefing on board, Santa Cruz II will relocate only four nautical miles from Baltra, next to Mosquera Islet, a small volcanic uplift between Baltra and North Seymour. The island is a long and narrow sand bank surrounded by lava reefs. The groups will approach the island from its western shore, a long shallow reef, the perfect rookery for young sea lions. After a wet landing, your guides will lead you past the sea lion colonies, where you will learn more about the fragile marine and terrestrial ecosystems of Galapagos. The walk is easy as it is restricted to a few hundred metres of flat sandy dunes. This will also be a great opportunity for an introduction to snorkelling. 10

11 Your Galápagos Vessel M/V Santa Cruz II 1 x Horizon Deck, Explorer Cabins with Full Board & Shared Activities for 6-nights The 90 guest Santa Cruz is ideally designed and outfitted for exploring the Galápagos Islands. From top to bottom, the Santa Cruz II features ample, indulgent spaces. Modern, generous social areas laid out with choice contemporary materials feature prominently on four of its five decks. With an intelligent layout, including wide hallways and broad stairwells, guests will immediately know their way around. From dining areas indoors and out, the fitness room and Jacuzzis to the elegant bar and lounge, not to forget the wellstocked library, the ship is designed to please with sophisticated simplicity. 11

12 Santa Cruz II Eastern Islands Itinerary Please Note: Included: accommodation, all meals, island sightseeing naturalist guides and lecture services in English/Spanish, snorkelling gear, luggage handling, medical care on board (not including the cost of medication), taxes, transfers in the islands, shared transfers from main hotels in Quito (Casa Gangotena, Hilton Colon, Sheraton, Marriott, Dann Carlton) and in Guayaquil (Hilton Colon, Oro Verde, Hampton Inn, Sheraton) to airport for flights to/from Galapagos & fuel surcharge. Not Included: wetsuits (available for rent, NET rate US$ 17 + VAT per guest for 5- or 6-day expeditions), Galapagos National Park entrance fee (US$ 100 subject to change without previous notice), fuel surcharge, alcoholic and non alcoholic beverages, internet / Wi-Fi, gratuities, gifts and additional items & travel insurance. 12

13 Day 08 SAN CRISTOBAL ISLAND Morning excursion to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno After breakfast, disembark at Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, the island s capital, and drive 40 minutes to the island s southern shore. At Cerro Colorado, visit the breeding centre for highly endangered giant tortoises in the midst of a fantastic deciduous forest, home to dozens of bird species, including the San Cristobal mockingbird, and the San Cristobal lava lizard, both island endemics. Afternoon excursion to Punta Pitt In the afternoon, disembark on the eastern tip of the island at Punta Pitt, an eroded tuff cone, whose trail provides spectacular views of the shoreline. This is the only site in the Galapagos where the three species of boobies can be found together. Walk or enjoy a panga ride along the coast. There will be an opportunity for snorkelling, swimming and kayaking. 13

14 Day 09 SANTA FE - SOUTH PLAZA ISLAND Morning excursion to Santa Fe Island After breakfast, take the dinghy over to this idyllic sandy-white beach populated by many sea lions. The endemic land iguana, unique to this island, may be spotted during the morning walk amid the giant prickly pear cactus. Snorkelling and swimming from the panga rounds off a rewarding experience, or if you prefer, the glass bottom boat is available for non-snorkelers. There will also be an opportunity for kayaking. Afternoon excursion South Plaza Island Following lunch and a rest, disembark in this channel, whose turquoise waters contrast brilliantly with the white sand and black lava of the shoreline. Beyond, a carpet of scarlet sesuvium succulents serves as groundcover for a grove of luminescent green prickly-pear cactus. Yellow-grey land iguanas sit beneath these, waiting patiently for pears to drop. Along the coastline one finds sea lion colonies, while frigates, swallowtailed gulls and shearwaters glide, playing with the thermals. 14

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16 Day 10 SANTA CRUZ ISLAND Morning excursion to Puerto Ayora and the Charles Darwin Research Station In the morning, disembark for a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station s giant tortoise Breeding Centre within an impressive giant prickly-pear cactus forest home to many land birds. These are the headquarters of scientific investigation, conservation and the National Park administration. Following your visit, board the transport to enjoy lunch in the cooler highlands of Santa Cruz Island, a completely different ecosystem. Afternoon excursion to Santa Cruz There are several options available for the afternoon, which can be discussed in advance with your Expedition Leader. At the end of the afternoon s activities, return to Puerto Ayora and embark on the Santa Cruz II. Day 11 ESPAÑOLA ISLAND Morning excursion to Punta Suarez An exciting walk awaits at this site, where you enjoy its unique sea bird colonies, including Galapagos albatross (April-December), Nazca boobies, blue-footed boobies, and swallow-tailed gulls as well as a view of the Galapagos famous blow-hole. Also, look out for red-green-black marine iguanas. Return to the Santa Cruz II for lunch. Afternoon excursion to Gardner Bay Osborn Islet In the afternoon, the picture-postcard white coral beach of Gardner Bay and the nearby islet of Osborn provides a beautiful setting for observing sea lions, mockingbirds, and finches as we relax. You can expect great snorkelling in this area. There will be an opportunity for swimming and kayaking as well. 16

17 Day 12 SANTA CRUZ ISLAND - SEYMOUR ISLAND Morning excursion to Eden Islet After breakfast, a panga ride takes you to Eden Islet, a small islet located off the coast of Santa Cruz, where you can observe blue-footed boobies diving into the water, reef sharks and frigates. There s a chance to snorkel and, if weather condition permits, ride in the glass-bottom boat and kayak. Afternoon excursion to North Seymour Island North Seymour was lifted from the ocean floor by a volcanic event, and its origins as a seabed give the island its low, flat profile. A tiny forest of silver-grey Palo Santo trees stands just above the landing, usually without leaves, waiting for the rains to burst into bloom. This is a great introductory site to the islands and their wildlife, full of bird colonies of blue footed boobies, two species of frigate birds, swallow-tailed gulls, as well as sea lions and marine iguanas. 17

18 Day 13 BALTRA - GUAYAQUIL After breakfast, leave for the airport to take the flight back to the mainland. XL1410 Economy Dep: Baltra 11:20 (local time) Arr: Guayaquil 14:15 Shared transfer on arrival to your hotel. Oro Verde 1 x Standard Room on a Bed & Breakfast basis for 1-night Day 14 GUAYAQUIL - OVERNIGHT FLIGHT Private transfer to the airport to meet your return flights with KLM. KL0751 Economy Dep: Guayaquil 18:40 Arr: Amsterdam 13:15 (+1 day) Day 15 AMSTERDAM - LONDON HEATHROW KL1019 Economy Dep: Amsterdam 14:40 Arr: Heathrow 15:00 Arrive back in the UK. 18

19 HOLIDAY COST 7,195 per person Suggested Itinerary This is an estimated price based on low season rates & air fares. The price may vary depending on exact dates. This is a suggested itinerary which we can amend to fit your exact requirements. Includes International flights as listed. All pre-payable airport departure taxes. Hotel accommodation as listed. Transfers as listed (on a shared basis unless specified as private). Meals as listed. Excursions as listed (on a shared basis unless specified as private) $20.00pp Galápagos Transit Control Card fee. Excludes Local departure taxes where applicable. Tips and gratuities. $100.00pp USD Galápagos National Park entrance fee. Any future currency surcharges. Any future airline fare, tax or fuel surcharges.* *In the event of airfare /tax increases you will have the option to pay for your airfare in advance to avoid these increases. Please Note The cost of this itinerary is based on 2 passengers sharing one room. All flights, accommodation and services are subject to availability at the time of booking. Air fares, taxes, schedules and routings are subject to change until ticket issue. All transfers are below 2 hours in duration unless otherwise stated. Half day tours are 5 hours or under in duration, full day tours are 6 hours or above. Booking Conditions Usually a deposit of 20% is required to secure a booking. The final balance would be due 10 weeks prior to departure. You can review our full booking conditions at: Financial & Consumer Protection When you book with Distinctive World Travel you are safe in the knowledge that we are fully bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority and hold an Air Tour Operators Licence (ATOL 9027) We are a member of AITO (Association of Independent Tour Operators) which represents the UK s 140 top specialist tour operators and prides itself on providing the highest level of customer satisfaction by concentrating on: Choice, Quality and Service. 19