GALAPAGOS ADVENTURE CRUISE ON THE M/V EVOLUTION SOUTHERN ISLANDS

Transcription

1 GALAPAGOS ADVENTURE CRUISE ON THE M/V EVOLUTION SOUTHERN ISLANDS Visit us at

2 Itinerary Overview Discover a blend of Indian and Spanish culture in Quito, South America's oldest capital city designated as a UN World Heritage Site. Voyage among the Galapagos Islands, a showcase of evolution, aboard a deluxe yacht. As you travel from island to island, our on-board, expert naturalist guide points out the unique behavioral and physical characteristics plants and animals have developed as they evolve and adapt to each unique island habitat. During an 8-day voyage, you visit all the major sites in the archipelago, including outer islands. No where else on Earth can you observe, photograph and commune so closely with exotic and bizarre wildlife as you venture among cinder cones, lava flows, white and black sand beaches, rocky cliffs and shorelines. Plan to hike, snorkel and sea kayak. DAY DATE OVERNIGHT HOTELS MEALS HIGHLIGHTS 1 Thu QUITO Casa Aliso Arrive and transfer to your hotel. 2 Fri QUITO Casa Aliso B Half day city tour 3 Sat 4 Sun BALTRA / SANTA CRUZ ISABELA / FERNANDINA Evolution Evolution BLD BLD Arrive Baltra, Whaler Bay, Eden Islet Punta Vicente Roca, Punta Espinosa 5 Mon ISABELA Evolution BLD Urbina Bay, Tagus cove 6 Tue BARTOLOME / SANTIAGO Evolution BLD Pinnacle Rock, Sullivan Bay 7 Wed SANTA CRUZ Evolution BLD Bachas Beach, Cerro Dragon 8 Thu SANTA CRUZ Evolution BLD Charles Darwin Station, highlands 9 Fri ESPANOLA Evolution BLD Punta Suarez, Gardner Bay 10 Sat QUITO Casa Aliso BLD 11 Sun QUITO B Depart Interpretation Center, fly to Quito Wildland Adventures Galapagos Adventure Cruise, Evolution -2-

3 Itinerary in Detail DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN QUITO Airport reception and transfer to Casa Aliso, a charming mansion elegantly re-imagined as a boutique hotel in the stylish district of La Floresta. Overnight at Casa Aliso DAY 2: QUITO Enjoy a half-day city tour of colonial Quito. Beginning in the charming hillside neighborhood of Guapulo with quaint cobblestone streets and lavish walled residences of ambassadors, continue into the main area of Quito s New Town, passing the American Embassy and House of Culture. The old colonial center includes the bustling Independence Plaza, the dazzling gold-leafed altars of La Compania Church and the San Francisco Church. Your orientation continues with a visit to Mitad del Mundo, the Equatorial monument and ethnographic village and museum. Learn about the broad diversity of people living in this small nation, from descendents of African slaves on the Pacific coast to the remote Achuar of the rainforest. Overnight Casa Aliso. [BL] DAY 3: GALAPAGOS ISLANDS / SANTA CRUZ Private transfer this morning to the domestic airport for the flight to the Galapagos. You are met and by your naturalist guide and transferred to the Evolution. Following the safety drill, set off for Whaler Bay, the site of one of the oldest whaling camps in the Galapagos Islands. Enjoy a hike to visit some of the artifacts, then get your first taste of snorkeling or kayaking in the Galapagos. Back onboard the Evolution, join your fellow adventurers for the Captain s cocktail party and introduction of the crew. Overnight onboard the Evolution. [BLD] DAY 4: ISABELA / FERNANDINA Following breakfast, a panga navigation to Punta Vicente Roca presents an excellent opportunity to observe the rich marine life sustained by the upwelling of the cold Cromwell Current. The remnants of an ancient volcano create twin turquoise coves, protected from the ocean and a snorkeling paradise. A partially submerged cave is a perfect perching site for masked and blue-footed boobies, as well as unique flightless cormorants. The caving of Volcan Ecuador, the Islands 6 th largest volcano, allows a cutaway view of the inner caldera. After lunch, we cross the Bolivar Channel where we often spot whales and dolphins riding the bow wave. We have a semi-wet landing at Punta Espinoza, Fernandina, the youngest and most pristine Island in Galapagos. Recent lava flows formed by an active volcano stretch their way around the coast. Hundreds of marine iguanas, the largest colony in Galapagos, bask in the sun along the rugged shoreline. Observe sea lion harems with resident bulls carefully guarding their territory. Flightless Cormorants build their nests on the point and Galapagos Hawks soar overhead. Overnight onboard the Evolution. [BLD] DAY 5: ISABELA Isabela is actually composed of 6 major volcanoes which flowed together to create the largest of the Galapagos Islands, and one of the most popular with visitors. At the base of Alcedo Volano, we disembark this morning at Urbina Bay. Here we find 4 miles of exposed coastal seabed and remnants of marine life, brought to the surface during a dramatic uplift in 1954, following a volcanic eruption. The marine remains of coral skeletons, some of them waist-high, are visited after a wet landing on the beach. You may observe nesting brown pelicans and flightless cormorants here, as well as giant marine iguanas which also inhabit this area. Following lunch, we board zodiacs for the ride to Tagus Cove. During the walk, discover a saltwater lagoon, a scenic overlook with a spectacular view of the surrounding ocean and neighboring islands, lava fields and volcanic formations. Graffiti dating back to the 1800's is scrawled on the rocky cliffs. An excellent snorkeling opportunity is offered here after the walk. Overnight onboard the Evolution. [BLD] DAY 6: BARTOLOME / SANTIAGO We set out immediately for the island of Bartolome, perhaps one of the most iconic images of the Galapagos. While inhospitable to most plants and animals, this young island is breathtaking in its stark beauty. After a dry landing, climb 30 minutes up stairs leading to the summit of a once active volcano. Along Wildland Adventures Galapagos Adventure Cruise, Evolution -3-

4 the way, we pause to marvel at lava bombs, spatter cones and cinder cones. From the top of the wooden stairs, gaze out across the island for a panoramic view of the island and iconic "Pinnacle Rock", an eroded tuff cone. Down below, crystal clear water is an invitation to snorkel from the beach or Zodiac with schools of tropical fish and Galapagos Penguins. The Evolution makes its next transit during lunch to Santiago Island and Sullivan Bay. The Sullivan Bay lava field presents a fascinating study in patterns. We may observe the impressions of trees which once existed, or the hornitos caused when pockets of water trapped beneath the lava flow exploded. In the century since this eruption, only a few plants have succeeded in re-colonizing the surface. Our naturalist guide will point out these hardy pioneers, proof of Nature s drive to expand and survive. Returning to the shore after our walk, we may observe oystercatchers fishing for crabs and mollusks in the tidal pools. Small coralline beaches welcome snorkelers to jump in with the playful sea lions which inhabit this area. Overnight onboard the Overnight onboard the Evolution. [BLD] DAY 7: SANTA CRUZ Board the Zodiacs this morning for Las Bachas, which is the Spanish translation for barges. The long stretch of a soft white coralline sand beach is a favored spot for nesting sea turtles. A path leads us to interior lagoons where we find the Greater Flamingo, black-necked stilts and whimbrels, as well as other coastal bird species. There is also a wonderful chance to snorkel here from the beach. Following lunch, continue our exploration of Santa Cruz to Cerro Dragon on the north end of the island. Follow your guide on a footpath to endemic land iguanas. Once part of the Darwin Station s breeding program, these repatriated iguanas display orange-yellowish skin with large spines along their backs. Walk quietly to keep from startling the pink flamingos that feed in the salt water lagoon. Along the trail, keep your eyes open for Darwin s Finches and Yellow Warblers. Return to the yacht at sunset for your briefing followed by dinner. Overnight onboard the Evolution. [BLD] DAY 8: SANTA CRUZ A highlight of any trip is a visit to the the famous Charles Darwin Station on Santa Cruz Island where we learn about current research and conservation initiatives, including several breeding programs that hope to reintroduce specific tortoise species back onto the island of their origin. Meet Lonesome George, possibly the oldest and most famous resident of Galapagos and the last surviving individual giant tortoise of his Pinta Island sub-species. Following lunch, we journey to the Santa Cruz Highlands, where the sparse, dry coastal vegetation transitions to lush wet fields and forests overgrown with moss and lichens. Our destination is the Tortoise Reserve, where we will have opportunities to track and view these friendly ancient creatures in their natural setting. This extends to the adjacent pasturelands, where farmers have given tortoise safe quarter. Nearby, a wooden stairway descends to the mouth of a giant lava tube, its arched entrance continues underground for several meters before reaching a narrow passage that marks its exit. Overnight onboard the Evolution. [BLD] DAY 9: ESPANOLA Following breakfast we have a dry landing at Punta Suarez, where we witness the highest rate of endemic species in Galapagos. Sea lions noisily greet us as we land on their beach. Curious Hood mockingbirds peck at our shoelaces. From April to November, the waved albatross, found only on Espanola, perform their wild mating ritual. Colonies of blue-footed boobies engage in sky-pointing to show off for potential mates. Nazca (formerly masked) boobies busily care for their young. Stunning swallow-tailed gulls are the only nocturnal gulls in the world. Red-billed tropicbirds take shelter under the cliffs. We also find Darwin s Finches, Galapagos Doves and Galapagos Hawks. Here we may observe a unique species of marine iguana identified with traces of red and green colorings. Colorful sally light-foot crabs crawl along the shoreline near the dramatic "blow hole". During lunch, we motor to the other side of the Island. This afternoon, we have a wet landing at Gardner Bay. Walk along seemingly endless stretches of this white sandy beach where you ll find large colonies of sea lions. There is no trail to follow so this is a chance to explore and discover Galapagos Hawks, Darwin s Finches or a Hood Mockingbird. Swim with sea lions from the beach. Your expert naturalist guides can point you to an excellent snorkeling site off Gardner Islet with colorful diversity of sea life near Tortuga Rock or caves covered with invertebrates. Passengers are also permitted to use the kayaks at this particular site. Return to the yacht at sunset for dinner and your naturalists presentations. Overnight onboard the Evolution. [BLD] Wildland Adventures Galapagos Adventure Cruise, Evolution -4-

5 DAY 10: QUITO Today our voyage comes to an end. But before we bid farewell to the Evolution and her crew we pay a visit to the Interpretation Centre. In 1998 the Galápagos National Park Visitor Centre opened for the benefit of islanders and travelers alike, presenting a comprehensive exhibit of the islands natural history, human interaction, ecosystems, flora and fauna. Our guide will use the exhibits to provide an illustrated overview of the natural history of the islands. From the Interpretation Center, a short trail arrives at Frigate Bird Hill, where both magnificent-frigates and great-frigates can be seen in the same colony ideal for learning to distinguish the two bird species. Disembark in the morning and your guide will accompany you to the Galapagos airport for your afternoon flight to the mainland. Transfer in from the Quito airport and stay overnight at Casa Aliso. [B] DAY 11: DEPART FOR HOME Transfer to the airport for your return flight home or extend your trip to visit more of Ecuador's natural wonders. [B] END OF SERVICES Actual routes and activities may vary. Local trip coordinators reserve the right to change accommodations to similar quality alternatives DEPARTURE DATES (THURSDAY TO SUNDAY) January January 24-February 3 February 7-17 February 21-March 3 March 7-17 March April 4-14 April May 2-12 May May 30-June 9 June June 27-July 7 July July 25-August 4 August 8-18 August 22-September 1 September 5-15 September October 3-13 October October 31-November 10 November November 28-December 8 December Wildland Adventures Galapagos Adventure Cruise, Evolution -5-

6 GALAPAGOS ADVENTURE CRUISE ON THE M/V EVOLUTION NORTHWESTERN ISLANDS Wildland Adventures Galapagos Adventure Cruise, Evolution -6-

7 Itinerary Overview Discover a blend of Indian and Spanish culture in Quito, South America's oldest capital city designated as a UN World Heritage Site. Voyage among the Galapagos Islands, a showcase of evolution, aboard a deluxe yacht. As you travel from island to island, our on-board, expert naturalist guide points out the unique behavioral and physical characteristics plants and animals have developed as they evolve and adapt to each unique island habitat. During an 8-day voyage, you visit all the major sites in the archipelago, including outer islands. No where else on Earth can you observe, photograph and commune so closely with exotic and bizarre wildlife as you venture among cinder cones, lava flows, white and black sand beaches, rocky cliffs and shorelines. Plan to hike, snorkel and sea kayak. DAY DATE OVERNIGHT HOTELS MEALS HIGHLIGHTS 1 Thu QUITO Casa Aliso Arrive and transfer to your hotel. 2 Fri QUITO Casa Aliso B Half day city tour 3 Sat 4 Sun 5 Mon SAN CRISTOBAL / LEON DORMIDO PLAZAS SUR / DAPHNE SOMBRERO CHINO / SANTIAGO Evolution BLD Playa Ochoa, Kicker Rock Evolution BLD Punta Carrion Evolution BLD James Bay 6 Tue GENOVESA Evolution BLD 7 Wed NORTH SEYMOUR / SANTA FE Evolution BLD 8 Thu FLOREANA Evolution BLD 9 Fri SANTA CRUZ Evolution BLD Darwin Bay, Prince Phillip s Steps Palo Santo & Opuntia cactus forests Post Office Bay, Punta Cormorant Charles Darwin Research Station, Highlands 10 Sat QUITO Casa Aliso BLD Black Turtle Cove, fly to Quito 11 Sun QUITO B Depart -7-

8 Itinerary in Detail DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN QUITO Airport reception and transfer to Casa Aliso, a charming mansion elegantly re-imagined as a boutique hotel in the stylish district of La floresta. Overnight at Casa Aliso DAY 2: QUITO Enjoy a half-day city tour of colonial Quito. Beginning in the charming hillside neighborhood of Guapulo with quaint cobblestone streets and lavish walled residences of ambassadors, continue into the main area of Quito s New Town, passing the American Embassy and House of Culture. The old colonial center includes the bustling Independence Plaza, the dazzling gold-leafed altars of La Compania Church and the San Francisco Church. Your orientation continues with a visit to Mitad del Mundo, the Equatorial marker and ethnographic village and museum. Learn about the broad diversity of people living in this small nation, from descendents of African slaves on the Pacific coast to the remote Achuar of the rainforest. Overnight Casa Aliso. [B] DAY 3: GALAPAGOS ISLANDS / LEON DORMIDO Private transfer this morning to the domestic airport for the flight to the Galapagos. You are met and warmly greeted by your naturalist guide and transferred to the Evolution. We set out immediately for Playa Ochoa, a lovely white sand beach in a calm cove, a perfect introduction to snorkeling in the Galapagos. A tidal lagoon beyond the beach offers our first opportunity for observing Galapagos seabirds and the Chatham mockingbird. Continuing on, we navigate near Leon Dormido, or Kicker Rock, the remains of a lava cone. The two vertical shafts of rock rise 500 feet from the sea and form a narrow channel for small vessels. The crystal clear water offers a brilliant show of tropical fish and invertabrates. As the sun sets, enjoy a typical Ecuadorian meal, the nightly briefing and formal presentation of the captain and crew. During the rest of this week, you will leisurely voyage through the stunning Galapagos Islands, among a varied landscape of diverse flora and fauna. Overnight onboard the Evolution. [BLD] DAY 4: PLAZA SUR / DAPHNE Following breakfast, this morning s visit is to South Plaza, a small geological uplift with tall cliffs offering spectacular views. After a dry landing, the trails lead us through Prickly Pear cactus or Opuntia and Sesuvium to a broad range of wildlife. Here we find the Galapagos land iguana feeding on the cactus leaves. Toward the end of the hill, we may encounter a colony of sea lions. The dominant bulls will likely be in various stages of recovery from battles lost over prime beach territory. We also find swallow tailed gulls, shearwaters and red-billed tropicbirds who build their nests along the cliffs. The afternoon brings us to Daphne Major, one of the most important islands for ongoing scientific research in the Galapagos. Scientists here have captured and tagged each of the island s finches in hopes of better understanding their travels and activities. You may observe many of the Galapagos archipelago s impressive species, blue-footed boobies, red-billed tropicbirds, magnificent frigatebirds, Nazca boobies, short-eared owls and Galapagos martins. Overnight onboard the Evolution. [BLD] DAY 5: SOMBRERO CHINO / SANTIAGO This morning s visit is to Sombrero Chino, a tiny island just off the southeast tip of Santiago. Its name (Chinese Hat) describes the island's shape. Though centrally located it is one of the least visited sites in the area. Our landing is on a beautiful crescent-shaped white sand beach, home to sea lions and sally lightfoot crabs. The trail explores the island s volcanic origin, one of the most evident in the islands. The lava rock is very fragile and tends to easily break. The sharp outcroppings caused from these breaks make it necessary to bring good shoes. Patches of pahoehoe lava, cracked lava and lava tubes can be found throughout the island. Our path leads partially up the striking red rust sides of the Sombrero to the caldera, high enough on the island to offer spectacular views of the waves crashing below. Snorkeling in the waters near Sombrero Chino is particularly exhilarating; white-tipped sharks frequent the area, as do playful sea lions and flying torpedo Galapagos penguins. Following lunch and repositioning to nearby Santiago, we have a wet landing onto a black sand beach at James Bay. An easy stroll takes us to the coastline where we observe tidal pools, marine birds, iguanas and sea lions, as well as migratory birds, -8-

9 often present in this area. Keep an eye out for the impressive Galapagos hawk, soaring on the island s thermals. The trail ends at fur sea lion grottos, where we will undoubtedly observe the nocturnal hunters sleeping off the night s activities. Upon returning to the beach, don your flippers and snorkel gear for a refreshing swim. Return to the yacht for dinner. Overnight onboard the Evolution. [BLD] DAY 6: GENOVESA We spend the entire day on Genovesa, considered to be one of the most spectacular Islands in Galapagos for bird species. This morning, we have a wet-landing at Darwin Bay, a coral sand beach where swallow-tailed and lava gulls gather near the tide pools. Enter a forest of Optuntia cactus and mangroves where colonies of great frigate birds nest. In a dramatic display, the earthbound males inflate their red-throated pouches to attract females as they fly overhead. The trail leads through a rich inter tidal zone where your naturalist guide helps you identify a wide diversity of wildlife. After the walk, we can swim and snorkel with sea lions from the beach in these warmer northern waters. Following lunch, there is a dry landing at Prince Philip s Steps. Red-footed boobies nest here in Palo Santo trees and Nazca (formerly masked) boobies nest near the trail. In an open lava field, observe large numbers of storm petrels, and if you are lucky, we will see the elusive short-eared owl. Following the walk, kayaks are available for paddling along the shoreline. Look closely for the beautiful red-billed tropic bird usually found in the crevices. Returning to the yacht, we set sail early to motor to the western islands. Enjoy your naturalists briefing followed by dinner. Overnight onboard the Evolution. [BLD] DAY 7: NORTH SEYMOUR / SANTA FE This morning, disembark for a hike through a Palo Santo forest, and enjoy one of the most wildlife rich islands in all the Galapagos. On the cliffs is a small forest of silvery Palo Santo trees and a trail leading to sea lions, marine iguanas, blue footed boobies, pelicans, magnificent frigate birds, and land iguanas. During lunch onboard, the vessel repositions to Santa Fe Island, home to a beautiful and sheltered bay offering great snorkeling in crystal clear waters. This is one of the best locations to spot sea turtles, swim with playful sea lions, and glimpse the white-tipped reef shark harmless but fascinating! A hike leads to land iguanas roaming a forest of opuntia cactus. Overnight onboard the Evolution. [BLD] DAY 8: FLOREANA Floreana has had a colorful history: Pirates, whalers, convicts, and a small band of somewhat peculiar colonists a Baroness among them who chose a Robinson Crusoe existence that ended in mystery and death. We visit Post Office Bay, where in 1793 British whalers set up a barrel as the island s Post Office, to send letters home on passing ships. The tradition continues to this day, simply by dropping a post card into the barrel without a stamp. The afternoon visit to Punta Cormorant offers two highly contrasting beaches; a green-olivine beach and an iron-red beach. Between the two beaches lies a salt lagoon frequented by flamingoes, pintails, stilts and other wading birds. Late afternoon snorkeling at Devil's Crown, home to a myriad of marine species including a variety of corals, pencil sea urchin, wrasses, angelfish and amberjacks, makes for some of the best snorkeling in the Galapagos. Overnight onboard the Evolution. [BLD] DAY 9: SANTA CRUZ This morning we visit the Charles Darwin Research Station. We observe all three tortoise corals and the breeding center with new hatchlings and miniature tortoises not yet ready to be repatriated to the wild. Scientists from all over the globe work at the station and conduct biological research from anatomy to zoology. We also visit the Van Straelen Hall with exhibits and a short video presentation. Visitors can meet perhaps the Galapagos most famous resident, Lonesome George, the last surviving member of the Pinta Island subspecies. Following lunch, we travel by bus to the highlands of Santa Cruz. The scenery gradually changes as we wind our way through all seven vegetation zones found in Galapagos. Here we visit the tortoise reserve where we encounter giant tortoises in their natural habitat. We visit Los Gemelos, Spanish for The Twins, a pair of large pit craters, and habitat for the brilliant red male vermilion flycatcher. A special treat is a stop at "the tunnels," the largest lava tubes found in Galapagos, and eye-popping evidence of the Islands volcanic origins. Overnight onboard the Evolution. [BLD] -9-

10 DAY 10: QUITO Today our voyage comes to an end. But before we bid farewell to the Evolution and her crew we pay a visit to Black Turtle Cove on Santa Cruz. We carefully navigate in our Zodiacs through a series of coves surrounded by lush mangroves. Your naturalist may point out mating marine turtles (Sept-Feb), whitetipped reef sharks, spotted eagle rays and beautiful yellow cow-nosed rays. The Zodiac motors are turned off and all must remain quiet while maneuvering through this magical area. The cove, a maze of tranquil salt water inlets, is a nursery site for sea turtles, rays and sharks as well as an important nesting site for sea birds. Disembark after our excursion, and return with your guides to the Galapagos airport for your afternoon flight to the mainland. Transfer in from the Quito airport and stay overnight at Casa Aliso. [B] DAY 11: DEPART FOR HOME Transfer to the airport for your return flight home or extend your trip to visit more of Ecuador's natural wonders. [B] END OF SERVICES Actual routes and activities may vary. Local trip coordinators reserve the right to change accommodations to similar quality alternatives DEPARTURE DATES (THURSDAY TO SUNDAY) January 3-13 January January 31-February 10 February February 28-March 10 March March 28-April 7 April April 25-May 5 May 9-19 May 23-June 2 June 6-16 June July 4-14 July August 1-11 August August 29-September 8 September September 26-October 6 October October 24-November 3 November 7-17 November 21-December 1 December 5-15 December

11 Accommodations CASA ALISO, QUITO Casa Aliso is a charming boutique hotel in the style and comfort of a small, luxurious home. This luxury Ecuador vacation accommodation is located in the fashionable residential neighborhood of "La Floresta", a quiet, forested area in the northern sector of the city a close to restaurants, shops and plazas of downtown Quito. Each room is individually designed featuring classic décor with modern style. They are well appointed with a sitting chair, desk, and comfortable beds, with telephones and cable TV. The bathrooms have a bathtub and shower, bathrobes, hairdryers and are equipped with 220v and 110v sockets. Your Ecuador adventure will be enhanced by the fine cuisine and the exceptionally professional and personal service of the staff at Casa Aliso. M/V EVOLUTION The M/V Evolution combines 1920's elegance and style with modern day comfort and safety. The 210 ft Galapagos expedition ship is one of the most popular vessels among guests who appreciate the special ambiance of a classic small ship with the space and amenities of a completely renovated and modern Galapagos yacht. The Evolution is professionally operated by eighteen crew members, a special Galapagos tour leader, and naturalist guides trained and licensed by the Galapagos Islands National Park Service and the Charles Darwin Research Center The Evolution features a lounge with bar and facilities for lectures, presentations and films, and a library with a wide range of books, movies and games. Two spacious sundecks are lined with beautiful rattan furniture and you will enjoy stargazing at night in the hot tub on the bow. Meals are served buffet style in the dining room and al fresco dining area. Kids dishes, vegetarian menus and special diets are available upon request. Other amenities include an air renewal system, boutique, and an infirmary with a MD on board at all times. Snorkeling equipment, wetsuits, and kayaks are provided. The Evolution also offers a unique perspective on your Galapagos trip by carrying clear acrylic sea kayaks for 'glass-bottom' glimpses beneath the calm seas. -11-

12 Booking your Wildland Adventure HOW TO RESERVE A TRIP You can book online using our Reserve a Trip form or by calling Your space on a trip is confirmed once we receive your reservation form and initial trip deposit. All travelers must sign and submit a Release of Liability. Deposit requirements are as follows:* $500 per person for all trips in Central America. $700 per person for all trips in South America, the Middle East, Asia and the Far East, the Mediterranean and North America. For the Galapagos this deposit is non-refundable. 20% of land cost for all trips in Africa. This deposit is generally non-refundable. *Some trips require additional non-refundable deposits, especially when yachts have been chartered, or if permits to visit archaeological or wildlife sites have been purchased in advance. CUSTOM TRAVEL This trip isn t exactly what you re looking for? We are happy to design a private custom itinerary to accommodate your travel dates, interests and style of accommodations. Call us at , send an to info@wildland.com, or use the Ask The Program Director button on the trip itinerary page on our website. PAYMENTS, CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS Full payment of the trip balance is due 90 days prior to departure. If you must cancel before departure, money will be returned less the cancellation fees charged by WA Inc. plus any additional non-refundable cancellation fees and payments already advanced to airlines, hotels and local operators: Wildland Adventures Cancellation Fees: Days Prior to Departure Fee 61 or more Initial deposit amount days 50% of costs 30 or less 100% of costs PRE-DEPARTURE SERVICES Upon receipt of your deposit and completed reservation form, we will send you a comprehensive Predeparture Dossier. This contains important information to help you prepare including immunizations, visas, trip insurance, packing checklist, reading list, maps, cross-cultural information, optional trip extensions and more. You will receive a final trip packet including Final Reminders and local contact information in your destination 2-3 weeks prior to departure. REFERENCES AND QUESTIONS Have any questions or concerns? Call us a or info@wildland.com. We re here to help and are happy to provide you with references from previous Wildland travelers. TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Wildland Adventures, Inc. has arranged your trip utilizing the travel services of local incountry ground operators who are independent contractors. These local outfitters, lodges, hotels and other suppliers of your travel services will make every effort to conduct this trip as described in the itinerary. It is however possible that due to transportation schedule changes, weather, delays and unforeseeable acts of God, humans or nature, this itinerary may vary from what is described. Participants must assume all risks whether identified in advance or unforeseen. All optional activities are at your own risk. Extra costs due to unexpected changes in your itinerary for reasons beyond our control are not included. We highly recommend purchasing traveler s insurance for trip delay, trip cancellation, baggage, accident or sickness. Representatives are available for assistance at any time during your trip. If preferred hotels are not available, every attempt will be made to reserve alternative -12-

13 accommodations of similar quality. (If upgrade is necessary, higher rates may apply.) All information and services provided are subject to our Terms and Conditions -13-