Ecuador s. Island Hopping in the Galapagos aboard. 18 th February to 9 th MARCH 2015

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1 Ecuador s Natural Wonders Island Hopping in the Galapagos aboard La Pinta combined with a river cruise along the Amazon & NAPO aboard the MV Anakonda 18 th February to 9 th MARCH 2015 EXTRA DATE RELEASED DUE TO POPULAR DEMAND

2 Native Toucan Natural World Wonders of the Galapagos and Amazon Join us for this unparalleled journey and discover the wonders of the natural world as we explore the Galapagos Islands and Amazon River aboard two very special vessels, the 48-guest La Pinta and the newly launched 40-guest MV Anakonda which we have chartered for this unique combination. The Galapagos archipelago which is 600 miles off Ecuador s Pacific Coast originated from undersea volcanic activity six million years ago. The archipelago s 13 major islands, six smaller ones, and scores of islets are all part of Ecuador s National Park system. In 1835 Charles Darwin visited the islands and discovered this living laboratory which inspired his writings on the Theory of Evolution. Many of the animals on the Galápagos Islands have developed into different species from their continental relatives, and because they have never experienced man as a predator, they show no fear of humans. The moment you set foot on your first island of the Galapagos you will see that curiosity and fearlessness are a way of life. Whether strolling along the islands pristine beaches, searching for the spectacular waved albatross, having a chat with a particularly friendly sea lion, or snorkelling with Galapagos penguins, a feeling of freedom surrounds you. During our cruise aboard La Pinta, the world s most wondrous group of islands is yours for unhurried exploration. Follow the nature trails; enjoy the amazing sights, snorkel with the sea lions and experience this veritable garden of Eden. Today there are a number of vessels offering cruises in the region ranging in size from six to one hundred passengers, but we have chosen to charter a very special vessel from our associates and experts in Galapagos cruises, Metroplitan Touring who have sixty years experience of providing guests with unique and quality travel experiences. We believe La Pinta is perfect for those who prefer a small, superior vessel, a highly experienced expedition team, small groups ashore and an environmentally friendly programme. Following on from our time in the Galapagos we have a couple of days to explore colonial Quito before travelling to the Amazon and boarding our river ship, the MV Anakonda. Ecuador s Amazon rainforest is known as the most bio-diverse region on our planet and is home to thousands of indigenous peoples, who have lived there for millennia. The country s treasured share of the Amazon jungle is separated from its lowland coastal planes by a rocky spine of majestic peaks and ancient volcanoes making up the world s second highest mountain range, the Andes. Sailing on the Napo River, a major tributary of the main Amazon River, we will venture into remote and pristine areas of the Ecuadorian rainforest where we can observe the wilderness, diverse wildlife and interact with the region s indigenous communities. Expeditions on foot and by canoe into the magical flooded forests of the Cuyabeno Nature Reserve, among the untamed wilds of Yasuni National Park, and on the still-quiet waters of the Panacocha River provide an opportunity to view jungle wildlife including playful monkeys, legendary pink river dolphins and colourful tropical birds, as well as river turtles, anacondas, caimans and other amphibians and reptiles of this unique eco-system. 2

3 Lightfoot Crabs and Marine Iguanas, Galapagos Islands Seals basking in the sunshine, Galapagos Quito It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent that survives. It is the one that is the most adaptable to change. Charles Darwin Giant Tortoise, Galapagos Dolphins off the Galapagos Islands Typical Indian Tribes Settlement in the Amazon +44 (0)

4 Pinnacle Rock, Bartolome. Galapagos Islands The Itinerary Fernandina THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS Isabela Santiago Bartolome Santa Cruz Genovesa Baltra San Cristóbal Espanola Day 1 London to Guayaquil. Fly by scheduled indirect flight. Arrive this evening and transfer to our central hotel for an overnight stay. The remainder of the day is free to relax independently. Day 2 Guayaquil. After breakfast in the hotel enjoy a morning tour of the town visiting Centennial Plaza that honours the heroes of Guayaquil s independence, the famous Moorish Clock Tower and Bolivar Park, with an equestrian statue of South America s liberator, Simon Bolivar. This afternoon is free for independent exploration before we meet for dinner tonight in a local restaurant. Day 3 Guayaquil to San Cristobal Island. Transfer to the airport this morning for our scheduled flight to San Cristobal Island. On arrival we transfer to La Pinta for lunch before visiting Cerro Colorado this afternoon. Here we find a breeding centre of the highlyendangered giant tortoises in the midst of a fantastic deciduous forest, home to dozens of bird species and the endemic San Cristóbal lava lizard. COLOMBIA Amazon Quito Coca Guayaquil ECUADOR PERU MAP NOT TO SCALE Day 4 San Cristobal Island. This morning we land at the eastern tip of San Cristóbal Island at Punta Pitt. The trail that ascends from the beach provides spectacular views of the shoreline and is the only site in the Galápagos where the three species of boobies can be found together, as well as the two frigate species, plus a colony of bachelor sea lions. After the walk, if weather permits we have a chance to swim from the beach. Enjoy lunch onboard and this afternoon we take a dinghy ride along the shores of tuff-stone layers which takes us to Cerro Brujo s expansive, white coraline beach, great for walking, with rewarding birdwatching with good views of seabirds and shore birds. These are the same shores that Charles Darwin walked upon, back in September Day 5 Espanola Island. Our morning outing at Punta Suarez provides an exciting walk on lava and boulder terrain to visit its unique sea bird colonies, including boobies, swallow-tail gulls, and the famous blowhole. Also, look for red-green-black marine iguanas. We are back onboard for lunch before heading to Gardner Bay this afternoon. We set down at this beautiful, white coral beach for a short walk to observe the sea lions, mockingbirds, finches or enjoy the beach. There is great snorkelling in this area, or alternatively there will be time to kayak or ride the glass-bottom boat. Day 6 Santa Cruz Island. Disembarking in the morning, we visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and the rearing in captivity programme for the giant tortoises. Here we witness the efforts and results of all the field work done in the name of science. After lunch in a local restaurant we travel by bus to El Chato Reserve, one of the best places in the archipelago to see giant tortoises in their natural habitat. The tortoises are easy to spot, lumbering around, eating grass and leaves and wallowing in the small pools that are common in the reserve. Day 7 Santa Cruz & Sombrero Chino Islet. After breakfast disembark at a beautiful olivine beach (a volcanic crystal that forms in fast-cooling lava). The area has historical relevance since a small community lived in this area in the late 1900s, collecting lichen (Rosella Tictoria), used in the textile industry. The trail leads us to an old water hole used by the former settlers. There are also boobies, land birds and beautiful views of the northwest side of Santa Cruz Island to enjoy. Several activities are possible after the walk, such as snorkelling or a panga ride along the shoreline. We are back onboard for lunch and sail to the tiny island of Sombrero Chino which gets its name from its appearance: a Chinese hat. Lying just off the southeastern tip of San Salvador Island, this islet only formed fairly recently and makes a beautiful visit as one explores along its 400-metre long trail, which begins at a crescentshaped white sandy beach. Several species of shore birds can be spotted, along with marine iguanas, lava lizards, Galápagos penguins and 4

5 Squirrel Monkeys, Monkey Island sally lightfoot crabs. The cove offers excellent swimming and snorkelling opportunities with white-tipped reef sharks and tropical fish. Day 8 Bartolome Island and Santiago Island. Disembark at Bartolomé Island for a hike to the summit. This is a steep climb up a wooden staircase with handrails and several resting and observation stops; the view from the top is worth the effort. Following the walk, a dinghy ride around colossal Pinnacle Rock, is rewarding, followed by time to enjoy the beach and some snorkelling, with possible Galápagos penguin sightings. Alternatively join the glass-bottom boat for great views of the underwater world. After lunch, we board the panga for the short ride to the landing site at Sullivan Bay on the east coast of Santiago. This is the perfect place to see and feel the volcanic origin of Galápagos. The last major eruption on Santiago was probably in the early 1900 s. Day 9 Genovesa Island. In the morning, enjoy an easy stroll observing thousands of birds, mainly frigate birds, red footed and masked boobies, gulls, herons, finches and mockingbirds. There will be an optional walk over sharp lava and uneven terrain for dramatic views or you can enjoy swimming and snorkelling at this beautiful natural harbour. The more adventurous can snorkel along the cliffs or Paddle Sea kayaks. The afternoon starts with an interesting panga ride along the cliffs and then disembark on rocks for a steep climb and stimulating walk of about a mile to the other side of this small island, observing large colonies of masked boobies, frigate birds and storm petrels. Those not wishing to disembark can enjoy a longer panga ride along the cliffs. Day 10 Baltra to Quito. Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to Quito. On arrival transfer to our central hotel for an overnight stay. This afternoon enjoy a guided tour of Quito including the colonial quarter which is the largest and best preserved in South America and a Unesco World Heritage Site. We will visit Independence Plaza, flanked by the Cathedral, the Presidential Palace, the Municipal Building and the Archbishop s Palace. Visit the temple of *La Compañía de Jesús and its awesome gilded interior. Continue on to the Monastery of San Francisco one the of great religious buildings of the New World; its impressive façade and atrium that lead to its Baroque interior influenced by Moorish style, with the winged Virgin of Quito at its main altar. Day 11 Quito. Enjoy a full day at leisure to further explore Quito or simply relax at the hotel before we embark on our Amazon adventure. Day 12 Quito to Coca. After breakfast in the hotel we take the short flight from Quito to Coca. Upon arrival transfer to Napo River port followed by motorised canoe ride for 90-minutes downriver. Along the way you will be able to observe the ever-changing forest-clad riverbanks of the brown, silt headwaters of the Amazon River. Embark the MV Anakonda and begin cruising along the majestic Napo River, a superb opportunity for observing the amazing plant and wildlife of the region from the boat s spacious sundeck. After dinner, you can participate in an optional nocturnal walk into the jungle where you will discover the mysteries of this unique environment and see how life emerges from the darkness right before your eyes. Day 13 Panacocha Protected Forest. This morning we continue heading downriver to the Panayacu River delta. From here we take a canoe upriver to experience the sights and sounds of this fascinating reserve. On the way, we are likely to come across Pink river dolphins, common squirrel monkeys and plenty of other rainforest inhabitants. Panacocha ( Piranha Lake in Kichwa) is an ecosystem flooded by whitewaters. The rivers and lakes here are the perfect habitat for the infamous piranha, as well as water monkey fish (or Arawana) and white caiman. After a refreshing swim we enjoy a delicious Amazonstyle barbecue lunch and refreshing beverages at a nearby campsite. In the afternoon join a jungle trail to discover more of the diverse Amazonian rainforest habitat. Day 14 Yasuni National Park. Today we will explore a whitewater river in search of local wildlife. After lunch we will stop at the Yaku Kausay Amazonian Water Museum and this evening, weather permitting, we can join an optional night time walk inside the jungle. Day 15 Pompeya Island. This morning we will visit a fascinating butterfly house and research project in one of the nearby communities. After lunch, we will enjoy an easy forest walk and discover the animated forest understory of the Amazon Basin. This evening there will be another opportunity to join a nocturnal walk to discover the mysteries of this unique environment. Day 16 Cuyabeno Reserve. After breakfast, we will visit a local Amazonian community, from whom we learn about their culture, talents and their way of life. You will gain an insight into how Prices per person based on double occupancy these giving and joyful people live while using and protecting their natural resources, and how they respect and are attentive to the fragility of their ecosystem. After lunch, we continue our voyage towards one of the most pristine black-water systems of the Amazon Basin, which is the home to the legendary Pink river dolphin, the Black caiman and the enigmatic Amazonian anaconda. We might also spot river turtles and monkeys such as Black-mantled Tamarins, Red howlers or Squirrel monkeys, as well as threetoed sloths and the primitive Hoatzin, a bizarre bird that s locally known as the Pavo Hediondo ( Stinky Turkey ). Day 17 Monkey Island. This morning explore a swamp forest, where birds, primates and various aquatic creatures congregate. Afterwards, you will visit a site where funerary urns from the 17th century have been discovered and excavated. After lunch, following a short time to relax while the MV Anakonda heads upstream you will be able to spend some time exploring one of that special water system s larger islets: Monkey Island inhabited by eight different species of that primate group. Day 18 Kuru Moyo. After breakfast, you will enjoy a cultural encounter with one of the local indigenous communities. The members will give you insights into their daily-life activities. What s more, you can buy handicrafts made directly from natural materials. Later we head over to the parrot clay licks, great for witnessing one of the most exciting wildlife spectacles in the Amazonia. In the afternoon, we visit the Limoncocha Biological Reserve, an incredible natural reserve with over four hundred bird species. Search for Black Caiman after dusk. Day 19 Coca to London. This morning enjoy your last hours in this amazing environment, before you disembark the MV Anakonda by canoe towards Coca. During the ride you will have a last chance to observe the rainforest. Once you arrive in Coca, you can enjoy a brunch of typical Ecuadorian food. We then join our flight to Quito and connecting indirect flight to London. Day 20 London. Arrive this afternoon. Tour Code: SCLP CABIN DESCRIPTION Standard cabin aboard La Pinta & MV Anakonda 7995 Superior Twin cabin aboard La Pinta & Deluxe Twin aboard the MV Anakonda 8995 Standard cabin aboard La Pinta & MV Anakonda for sole use 9995 Price includes: Economy scheduled international and domestic air travel, seven nights aboard La Pinta on a full board basis, seven nights aboard the MV Anakonda on a full board basis, two nights hotel accommodation in both Quito and Guayaquil on a bed and breakfast basis, dinner on day 2, all shore excursions as detailed in itinerary, Noble Caledonia Tour Manager, Galapagos National Park fee and Transit Card, transfers, port taxes, airport taxes. Not included: Travel insurance, gratuities. NB: Ports subject to change and local conditions. +44 (0)

6 Dining Room MV La Pinta Observation Lounge MV La Pinta Accommodating a maximum of 48 guests, La Pinta is a 63-metre yacht, designed for the ultimate luxurious expedition adventure in the Galapagos Islands. After a day of wildlife exploration, La Pinta provides a haven of relaxation and tranquility with tastefully appointed accommodations and all the facilities to create a stylish yet informal ambiance. The 24 en-suite cabins all have outside views with twin or queen double beds, and are located on the Upper Deck. All cabins are air-conditioned with individual controls and have ample storage space, a safe, telephone, multi-channel sound system and connections for personal ipods, MP3 and MP4 players. Standard cabins measure 17.6m 2 and Superior Cabins are 23m 2 (additional to the standard cabins they have a sofa which can be used as a third bed). Double Cabin Twin Cabin The public areas are located over three decks, all of which offer superb views of your breathtaking surroundings. Public areas include a dining room where a mix of international and Ecuadorian cuisine is served, a bar, library, lecture room, boutique and a spacious sun deck which has an outside bar. There is also a fitness centre with gymnasium equipment, Jacuzzi and hydro massage. You will also find three internet stations onboard and a doctor. BOAT DECK BAR JACUZZI CABIN DECK LIBRARY GYM OBSERVATION LOUNGE & BAR La Pinta offers a single and open sitting restaurant. Breakfast and lunch are buffet, with a wonderful selection of local fresh produce. Dinner is a three course set menu. A crew of 24 will provide the best possible onboard service to make your cruise the trip of a lifetime. For daily explorations, the ship features a glass-bottom-boat, sea kayaks and snorkelling equipment for guests use. There will be four naturalists onboard to share their in-depth knowledge of the Galapagos, therefore each naturalist will accompany a group of just 12 passengers ashore. There will also be talks and daily briefings onboard using the latest audio visual equipment MAIN DECK DINING ROOM RECEPTION H SHOP The atmosphere onboard is friendly and informal and there is no dress code, instead the focus is on comfort and practicality for onshore exploration. The ship prides itself in being a relaxed and friendly environment. SUPERIOR CABINS STANDARD CABINS 6

7 Top Deck MV Anakonda Dining Room MV Anakonda Explore the wonders of the Amazon from aboard the MV Anakonda, the only first class ship in the Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest. Experience the Amazon in a most unique way aboard this 148 foot-long floating boutique hotel. Built in 2013, the MV Anakonda s 18 spacious, deluxe and exclusive suites provide capacity for up to 40 passengers. There are 14 standard suites and four deluxe suites onboard, all are outsidefacing with large panoramic windows and measure over 172 square feet. Cabins feature a sitting area with twin beds that can be converted to a Queensized bed, air-conditioning, en-suite, hairdryer and basket of toiletries. The vessel s wall-to-wall panoramic windows will allow you to observe the wilderness from almost every point in the vessel. The Amazonian rainforest will pass by like in a National Geographic documentary on the silver screen but this is a movie you can take part in as your guides invite you to participate in rowing or walking expeditions at least twice a day. The observation deck with its alfresco lounge and two outdoor Jacuzzis is an ideal place for enjoying a cocktail, relaxing with a good book or simply taking in the spectacular views. Other facilities onboard include, an indoor bar, lounge, dining room and boutique. Onboard you will enjoy a wide variety of national and international fusion cuisine. The chefs utilise traditional and well-known cuisine from all over the world and adapt it using fresh, local products. Individual tastes can be catered for and guests can enjoy unique fare such as Quinoa Risotto or fish prepared in fresh coconut sauce. The friendly onboard crew of 25 will provide you with excellent service and do much to contribute to your enjoyment throughout your journey. The crew includes a purser, paramedic, four expert English speaking naturalist guides, four local guides and a concierge. The atmosphere on board is relaxed and informal and the dress code is casual, with the emphasis on comfort for exploration during the day and smart/casual clothing is ideal for the evenings. There will be a range of onboard activities including briefings and talks from the onboard naturalists and cooking demonstrations. The MV Anakonda operates all year round and each trip is unique based on the changing seasons. During the high water season, when the water levels of rivers and inlets grow, launch boats are able to venture deeper into the flooded forest. During the low water season, the river recedes to form beautiful sandy river beaches. The vessel is fitted with GPS tracking by the Ecuadorian Navy, radio communication with separate battery pack, satellite phone, life jackets, flares and signals, fire extinguishers and smoke detectors in each suite and there is an automatic defibrillator on board. The three fibreglass ecologic canoes are equipped with four-stroke low emission engines, constant radio communications with the main vessel. Each canoe has a capacity of 30 passengers. Double Suite Single Suite Lounge Bar N.B. The images shown above are artist s illustrations and are subject to change. Please refer to our website for more images and MV Anakonda s Deckplan. +44 (0)

8 Amazon River 2 Chester Close, Belgravia, London, SW1X 7BE +44 (0) info@noble-caledonia.co.uk All special offers are subject to availability. Our current booking conditions apply to all reservations and are available on request. Cover image: Albatross, Galapagos Islands NC_003_011113_K