A NEW ADVENTURE ON DARWIN S ISLANDS THE WESTERN GALÁPAGOS HOSTED BY BECKY ELLSWORTH, CURATOR, SHORES REGION COLUMBUS ZOO AND AQUARIUM GALÁPAGOS PENGUINS FLIGHTLESS CORMORANTS BREEDING SEA TURTLES OCTOBER 6 14, 2018 LARGEST COLONY OF MARINE IGUANAS AND VOLCANOES
I invite you to join me on a magical journey into the world of Darwin s Enchanted Isles. a quest that will take us to several islands in the Galápagos that we did not explore on the Columbus Zoo s previous adventure in 2014. The Galápagos Islands truly are our planet s most precious ecosystem. From snorkeling in pristine waters to exploring wildlife like tortoises, birds and sea lions, this is a once in a lifetime journey. The Galápagos Islands are often referred to as the best place on earth to see wildlife in their natural habitat. And what better way to observe the natural world than on an ecofriendly yacht with excursions by kayak, zodiac, foot, and snorkel. I m excited to have the opportunity to travel with you on this fascinating journey. As Curator of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium s Shores Region, my knowledge and love of marine life abounds. My career began at the Zoo in 2000 as a Zookeeper caring for fish, amphibians, invertebrates, birds, reptiles, and Becky Ellsworth Curator of the Shores Region Columbus Zoo and Aquarium marine mammals and taking care of habitat maintenance, water quality, life support systems, observation of medical and behavioral changes, public interaction, and animal enrichment and training. I was privileged to be promoted Head Keeper, then Assistant Curator and in 2015, Curator of the region. Rehabilitating and releasing over 20 manatees is the part of my job that still gives me goosebumps. To be able to take in a sick, injured, or orphaned animal and give them another chance at life, takes my breath away. There are many conservation projects in which I and my team are also involved. From restoring coral reefs to saving endangered hellbenders and garter snakes, there is nothing like being part of the big picture to save our planet. Now is the time to seek out nature and take that trip of a lifetime. I hope you ll make your reservation to explore both land and sea together and search for those moments that take our breath away! Becky Ellsworth
Galápagos - The Enchanted Isles On September 15, 1835, Charles Darwin, the 26 year-old naturalist on the HMS Beagle, landed on Chatham Island (now known as San Cristóbal Island) in the chain of islands known as the Galápagos. Over the next 35 days, he recorded his observations as he visited various islands in the archipelago. Twenty-four years later, Darwin published his landmark book On the Origin of Species and the world s view of the natural world has never been the same. You now have an opportunity to travel in Darwin s footsteps with the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, visiting several of the islands of the Galápagos and making your own observations of its fascinating wildlife. Although your voyage among the islands only lasts seven days, you will experience an astounding variety of unique landscapes and wildlife encounters. Wildlife wanders freely and almost fearlessly in the Galápagos. This remote island group with its dramatic and desolate beauty is home to some of the most unique species in the world. Many are found only here, such as the Galápagos tortoise, marine and land iguanas, the flightless cormorant and, of course, Darwin s famous finches. Darwin noted that different species appeared to have been adapted to fit different niches on individual islands, eventually giving rise to his concept of natural selection. You may glimpse a male magnificent frigatebird in courtship, his bright-red breast puffed up in a dazzling display, or the spectacular dive of a blue-footed booby fishing close to shore, or the graceful waved albatross so comical and clumsy when taking flight. It s all here in the Galápagos, a treasure-trove of natural history awaiting your discovery. Shore excursions on Galápagos Island tours include hiking ancient lava fields where you will encounter prehistoric-looking reptiles such as the iconic giant Galápagos tortoise and endemic land and marine iguanas. Discover the courtship dance of the blue-footed boobies and the graceful water ballet of the Galápagos penguins. Explore beaches of black, red and green sand leading to the equatorial Pacific Ocean. Snorkeling or kayaking while on a cruise to the Galápagos Islands is one of the true highlights of your adventure. We offer a variety of active explorations. Go on a nature walk and marvel at brightly-colored lava lizards. Slip into a sea kayak and discover hidden tide pools, mangrove forests, beaches of red, green and black sand and the hardened lava fields smeared onto the edges of the shores. Swim back and forth across the equator with sea lions that perform an underwater ballet. Go birding in search of the Nazca booby. Or put on a mask and snorkel and explore the delicate balance of life underwater, watching schools of graceful spotted eagle rays gliding beneath you. Exploring the undersea is a major part of the Galápagos experience where cold and warm waters intermingle and where fur sea lions, sea turtles, dolphins, whales and tame reef sharks thrive. We provide complimentary snorkeling equipment, wet suits and kayaks. Each night, our naturalists conduct a briefing before dinner. With just 18 fellow travelers, your guides can take the time to explore any topic that interests you personally.
From the moment you meet our representatives in Guayaquil, you are in the hands of one of the most experienced and recognized teams in Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands the professionals of Ecoventura. World Safaris began working with them in 1996 and they took great care of our travelers during the Columbus Zoo s 2014 voyage. We have found them to be dedicated to making sure you safely enjoy every aspect of your Galápagos safari. They are committed to your needs and interests, through exceptional personal service and attention to detail. Your journey is sure to be enhanced by our professional, licensed Galápagos guides, fluent in English, whose knowledge and determination to show you everything you wish to see is matched only by their dedication to your safety and comfort. Perhaps most important, our group of 19 travelers will have the complete attention of two guides. The ratio of one guide for every ten travelers exceeds the standards set by most of the tour companies working in the Galápagos. YOUR GALÁPAGOS SAFARI ITINERARY OCT. 6 - SATURDAY DEPARTURE FROM YOUR US AIRPORT AND ARRIVAL IN GUAYAQUIL, ECUADOR TRANSFER BY AND OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATIONS AT THE ORO VERDE HOTEL OCT. 7 - SUNDAY TRANSFER TO THE GUAYAQUIL AIRPORT FLIGHT TO SAN CRISTÓBAL ISLAND IN THE GALÁPAGOS (FLIGHT INCLUDED) TRANSFER TO THE M/Y ERIC CERRO TIJERETAS, SAN CRISTÓBAL OCT. 8 - MONDAY DARWIN BAY & PRINCE PHILLIP S STEPS, GENOVESA OCT. 9 - TUESDAY LAS BACHAS OR BLACK TURTLE COVE & CERRO DRAGON, SANTA CRUZ OCT.10 - WEDNESDAY PUNTA ESPINOSA, FERNANDINA URBINA BAY, ISABELLA OCT. 11 - THURSDAY ELIZABETH BAY & TAGUS COVE, ISABELA OCT. 12 - FRIDAY PUERTO EGAS & RABIDA ISLAND, SANTIAGO OCT. 13 - SATURDAY HIGHLANDS OF SANTA CRUZ DARWIN RESEARCH STATION, SANTA CRUZ OCT. 14 - SUNDAY SAN CRISTÓBAL ISLAND FLIGHT TO GUAYAQUIL (FLIGHT INCLUDED) SCHEDULED TRANSFER TO THE AIRPORT DEPARTURE TO YOUR HOME PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS ITINERARY IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE, BASED ON LOCAL CONDITIONS AND PARK REGULATIONS. QUESTIONS? Please contact Patti Cattey, Community Engagement Coordinator, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium at: 614-724-3558 patti.cattey@columbuszoo.org
M/Y ERIC Built in 1991 and refurbished annually, the M/Y Eric accommodates no more than 20 guests and features three decks of spacious staterooms with polished teak interiors trimmed with shiny brass fittings. Accommodations include ten double outsidefacing cabins with a window or porthole view, one double bed or two twin lower beds, private bathrooms (hot and cold water showers), bio-degradable soap/shampoo, hair dryer, closet, drawers, intercom and separate air-conditioning/climate controls for your comfort. There s a dining room, well-stocked bar and conference area with a flat screen TV, library and panoramic picture windows. The partly shaded sun deck allows you to relax while enjoying the sea breezes and, at night, a sky full of equatorial stars. 20-guest superior first-class motor yacht 10 fully air-conditioned outside staterooms with private bathrooms Dining room featuring gourmet-style menu with locally sourced cuisine Fully-stocked bar Conference room for briefings with TV, DVD player and library Observation areas and open sun deck
D-3 D-1 D-4 D-2 Cabins #1, 3 & 4 have two twin lower beds or one double bed and picture windows. Cabin #2 has one double bed and picture window. Cabins average 95 square feet.
Cabins #5 & 6 have one double bed and picture windows. Cabins average 90 square feet.
I-9 I-7 I-10 I-8 Cabins #7 & 8 have twin lower beds and port lights. Cabins #9 & 10 have twin lower beds and one upper berth with port lights and may be reserved as triples. Cabins average 110 square feet.
SATURDAY DEPARTURE FROM USA & ARRIVAL IN GUAYAQUIL, ECUADOR Your international travels bring you to Guayaquil s José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport the starting point of your Galápagos adventure. Upon clearing immigration and customs, you enter the arrival hall and meet your World Safaris representative, who guides you to your waiting vehicle for your ride to your overnight accommodations at the Oro Verde Hotel. SUNDAY - FLY TO SAN CRISTÓBAL ISLAND M/Y ERIC After breakfast, your World Safaris team returns you to the airport for your flight to the Galápagos Islands. Upon arrival at Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, San Cristóbal, your crew is waiting at the airport to escort you by bus to the main dock and then by Zodiac to the motor yacht M/Y Eric, your temporary home for the next seven days. After a welcome briefing by your captain and a safety drill, a delicious buffet lunch is served. After lunch, you travel by bus to Cerro Colorado to visit Centro de Crianza Jacinto Gordillo (La Galapaguera), where the Galápagos Islands National Park has established a giant tortoise breeding San Cristóbal mockingbird program in their natural habitat. At the visitor center, you learn about the origin and evolution of tortoises, as well as threats by introduced animals. Along the trail, watch for the San Cristóbal mockingbird and Calandrinia plant, both endemic to this island. Returning to the yacht, your evening briefing is followed by the Captain s welcome cocktail party and dinner prepared by the Eric s culinary school-trained chefs. (B/L/D) MONDAY - GENOVESA ISLAND Today s voyages takes you to the northern islands, where you spend the entire day on Genovesa Island, so well known as one of the most spectacular places in the Galápagos for bird species that it s nicknamed Bird Island.. Landing at Prince Philip s Steps, you look for the redfooted boobies, who nest in palo santo trees, while Nazca boobies nest near the trail and storm petrels gather in large numbers in an open lava field. With luck, you may spot the elusive short-eared owl. Nazca boobies Great frigate bird Returning to the yacht, enjoy lunch on the sundeck. You may choose to paddle from a kayak or stand up paddle board and explore the cliffs, where the red-billed tropic bird hides in the crevices. You may also go snorkeling in deeper water from the Zodiac. Later, you land at Darwin Bay, a coral sand beach where swallowtailed and lava gulls gather near the tide pools. Here, you enter a forest of Optuntia cactus and mangroves where colonies of great frigate birds nest, the males inflating their red-throated pouches to attract females as they fly overhead. Chose to relax on the beach or swim with sea lions in these northern warmer waters. Later, you return to the yacht for a briefing and dinner Red-footed booby followed by a sky full of stars. (B/L/D)
TUESDAY SANTA CRUZ ISLAND This morning you disembark at Las Bachas beach, which is the Spanish translation for barges. There is a long stretch of a soft white sand beach and interior lagoons where you find pelicans, white-cheeked pintail ducks, stilts and the greater flamingos inarguably, the pinkest flamingos in the world. There is also a wonderful chance to take a stroll along the beach or swim from the shore. One of the most colorful creatures of the island will also be found here the Sally Lightfoot crabs. Guests on board the Eric may have a Zodiac ride at Caleta Tortuga Negra (Black Turtle Cove) - through a series of coves and inlets surrounded by mangroves. White-tipped reef sharks and golden cownosed rays are often seen. October is within the mating season of the Greater flamingo Sally Lightfoot crab green sea turtles and, with a bit of luck, you may spot a breeding pair. After lunch on The Eric, you step ashore on Cerro Dragon (Dragon Hill), for a majestic view of the bay and the island landscape covered in Opuntia cactus, palo santo and the yellow flowers of the muyuyo plant. The trail offers excellent opportunities to see Darwin finches, Galápagos flycatchers, yellow warblers, shearwaters and the endemic land iguanas, that were once part of the park s breeding program. In the salt-water lagoon, pink flamingos feed alongside other birds such as stilts, pintail ducks and sandpipers. After the evening briefing and dinner, you sail toward the western islands and cross the equator line for the third time. (B/L/D) WEDNESDAY FERNANDINA AND ISABELLA ISLANDS This morning s landing is at Punta Espinoza on Fernandina, the youngest and most pristine Island in Galápagos an island with no introduced mammals. Recent lava flows formed by an active volcano stretch their way around the coast. Hundreds of the world-famous marine iguanas - the largest colony in Galápagos - bask in the sun along the rugged shoreline. The resident Galápagos sea lion bulls dominate the shore, each one carefully guarding his harem. Flightless cormorants build their nests on the point and Galápagos hawks, the Islands largest terrestrial predators, fly overhead. Snorkeling here will often give you underwater views of green sea turtles and marine iguanas. Galápagos sea lion After lunch, The Eric crosses the Bolivar Chanel, where whales and dolphins can often be seen riding the bow wave. This afternoon s destination is Urbina Bay (Isabella Island), where you ll discover four miles of its coastal seabed that was thrust out of the sea during a dramatic volcano eruption in 1954. The marine remnants of coral skeletons, some of them waist-high, can be seen following a wet landing on the beach. Urbina is home to the very large and colorful Galápagos land iguanas, Galápagos tortoises and Darwin finches. Among the avian species that nest here are brown pelicans and flightless cormorants birds that fish underwater
and, in contrast with their cousins found throughout the world, have evolved to the point that their wings can no longer support flight. Marine iguanas are found along the coast and, if you go snorkeling, you may encounter Galápagos penguins. At Punta Vicente Roca, a Zodiac ride offers an incredible view of the volcanic tuff wall. Entering a wavesculpted cave, you may find green sea turtles, penguins, and Galápagos fur seals, Galápagos fur seal which frequent this area. As you glide along the water, keep an eye out for a large dorsal fin sticking out of the water. That will be the dorsal fin of a mola mola, an odd looking giant sun fish, which is classified as the heaviest known bony fish in the world. Returning to The Eric, your guides will summarize the day s adventures and brief on tomorrow s planned activities. (B/L/D) THURSDAY ISABELLA ISLAND Isabela was created when six volcanoes flowed together, making Isabella Island the largest island in the Galápagos and offering a variety of fascintating destinations to explore. This morning s zodiac landing brings you to Elizabeth Bay, starting with a visit to a secluded cove, lined with large red mangrove trees. While you are likely to see an occasional sea turtle pop up, the most prevalent activity is the repeated diving of the brown pelicans. Motoring on to the rocky islets known as Las Marielas, you look for a colony of nesting Galápagos penguins, flightless cormorants and giant marine Iguanas are found. Returning to The Eric, you find that lunch is served out on the sun deck in the midst of this calm bay. Following lunch, you have a dry landing at Tagus Cove, located on the western side of the Island. This was a favorite anchorage for pirates and whalers over the centuries. And old graffiti, dating back to the 1800 s, can still be seen, written on the rocky cliffs. In addition to exploring by Zodiac, you may climb into a sea kayak and more closely discover the rich variety of wildlife found here. Snorkeling in yet another excellent site is offered here, as well. An uphill hike brings you to a salt-water lagoon, a scenic overlook with a spectacular view of the ocean, lava fields and volcanic formations. An excellent snorkeling site is offered from the zodiac or take out a Kayak and explore the shoreline. After dinner, a sky full of stars beckons you to go on deck and observe the Milky Way galaxy, while crossing the equator for the last time. (B/L/D)
FRIDAY PUERTO EGAS, SANTIAGO ISLAND & RABIDA ISLAND This morning you stroll along the shoreline at Puerto Egas, on Santiago Island, on the lookout for octopus, starfish and other sea life caught in the pools left by the receding tide. At low tide, it s easy to catch a glimpse of marine iguanas, as they feed on exposed green algae. Galápagos hawk at Puerto Egas Among the birds found here are great blue herons and lava herons in pursuit of Sally Lightfoot crabs, while pairs of American oystercatchers fly by. Your walk ends at the grottos - deep pools of clear water where you encounter Galápagos fur seals, which were once on the verge of extinction. Before returning to the yacht, there is a chance to snorkel from the beach. After lunch, take a seat on deck to view the dramatic landscape and watch for the dolphins that are often spotted as you sail to your next destination. You disembark on Rabida, a small island considered to be the geographic center of the Galápagos Islands because its volcanic rocks are the most diversified in the archipelago. The dark red color of the beach comes from the high iron content in the volcanic stones. Following the trail to a salt water lagoon where greater flamingos migrate, keep an eye out for marine iguanas, Galápagos mockingbirds, yellow warblers and Darwin finches. Afterwards, do not miss the chance to snorkel with sea lions and rays, as well as colorful tropical fish. a visit Las Bachas SATURDAY SANTA CRUZ ISLAND Leaving The Eric, you travel by bus to the highlands of Santa Cruz Island. The scenery gradually changes as you wind your way through all seven vegetation zones found in the Galápagos. Visiting Rancho El Manzanillo, a privately-owned hacienda, you encounter the most famous residents of the islands - the long-lived Galápagos tortoises - in their natural habitat. These giant reptiles so impressed the early Spanish explorers, that they named the island after the Spanish word for tortoise galápago. Reduced to about 3,000 in the 1970 s, the exceptional dedication to their conservation has increased their numbers to an estimated 15,000. Later, you stop at the tunnels, the largest lava tubes found in Galápagos a dramatic legacy of the volcanic nature of the islands. Los Gemelos (Spanish for The Twins ) are a pair of large pit craters where you may spot the beautiful red male vermilion flycatcher. Your next stop is the Centro de Crianza Fausto Llerena (formerly known as the Charles Darwin Research Station). You visit the tortoise corrals and discover the differences among the tortoises of the different islands. And you meet Diego, The Professor, who has been their most successful breeding male and still going strong at over 130 years old! Perhaps the most inspiring portion of your visit is the breeding center, where you see the future of the Galápagos tortoises - new hatchlings and the older miniature tortoises, slowly growing until the day they can be released onto the islands.
Puerto Ayora is the social heart of the islands with a population of around 24,000. After lunch and a briefing on board, you return to town to shop for souvenirs. There is even an internet café! You may remain in town to stimulate the local economy or you can return to the boat for dinner. You return to The Eric on a scheduled Zodiac transfer. (B/L/D) SUNDAY - SAN CRISTÓBAL ISLAND Following breakfast, you return to the island for a visit to the Interpretation Center of San Cristóbal. Then, you return to the airport for your flight to the mainland, where you are met by your World Safaris team. They take you to the Oro Verde Hotel, where a dayroom awaits, allowing you to relax and prepare for your flight home. The Oro Verde Hotel staff takes you to the airport for your departing flight. (B) Blue-footed boobies Marine iguana Green sea turtle
THE GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS - HOSTED BY BECKY ELLSWORTH, COLUMBUS ZOO AND AQUARIUM Your adventure on the Galápagos Islands is made up of several elements: The Galápagos Island Cruise on the M/Y Eric, which includes accommodations, guided island excursions and three meals daily Galápagos National Park Entry Fee & Transit Control Card Flights between Guayaquil, Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands One overnight and one dayroom at the Oro Verde Hotel, Guayaquil Arrival group transfer between the airport and the Oro Verde Hotel (provided by the Oro Verde Hotel if you do not arrive with the group) Group transfers between the Oro Verde Hotel and the airport for the Galápagos flights Scheduled departure transfer between the airport and hotel, as provided by the Oro Verde Hotel The total for all the above included in your Galápagos Islands safari: Cabin prices vary, based on which deck they are located. Please select the deck of your choice from the diagrams on the previous pages. Decks are assigned on a first-come basis, in the order in which your deposit is received. We cannot guarantee any specific cabin assignment. You will receive your cabin assignment approximately two weeks before departure. Iguana Deck: $5995 per person, based on two travelers sharing accommodations up to six spaces available Booby Deck: $6445 per person, based on two travelers sharing accommodations up to four spaces available Dolphin Deck: $6895 per person, based on two travelers sharing accommodations up to eight spaces available A single room supplement of $3495 will apply to any traveler occupying a single room on the Iguana Deck. A minimum of ten (10) travelers, not including the leader, is required for this tour. A maximum of 18 travelers plus the leader may participate in this tour. A deposit of $1,700 per person is required no later than December 31, 2017 to confirm your reservation at the above price. Fees for the use of credit and debit cards are not included in the price. If you wish to use a credit or debit card for your deposit, please add $54 to your deposit amount. Full payment of the balance is due no later than May 1, 2018. Balance payments are accepted by check. To give you maximum flexibility, international air transportation is not included. Please note that you will need to arrive in Guayaquil, Ecuador no later than the evening of October 6, 2018 and depart no earlier than 6pm on October 14, 2018. Roundtrip economy flights on American Airlines between Columbus and Guayaquil are currently estimated at $975 per person. Please note that this estimate may not reflect the price available when you book your tickets. We recommend you make your international travel arrangements through Cathy King, an independent air travel professional, so she may coordinate flights, where possible. You may contact Cathy at adventuretrips@hotmail.com or 828-421-5000. Tips for the cruise crew are not included. We recommend budgeting $200 per traveler. Please note that the captain divides tips among the entire crew, including the guides.
Included in your Galápagos Safari Price, as listed above: The Galápagos Island Cruise on the M/S Eric, in twin or double accommodations: Fully air-conditioned outside staterooms with private bathrooms Three meals daily, snacks and non-alcoholic beverages while on board the M/Y Eric (house wine and local beer served during dinner) Captain s welcome and farewell cocktail parties Guided island excursions with two English-speaking naturalist guides, providing a low guide-to-passenger ratio (maximum of 10 travelers per guide) Complimentary snorkeling equipment, 3mm custom wet suits and kayaks (subject to availability)* Conference room for briefings with TV, DVD player and library Observation areas and open sun deck Galápagos National Park Entry Fee & Transit Control Card Flights between Guayaquil, Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands One overnight (breakfast included) and one day room at the Oro Verde Hotel, Guayaquil Group transfer upon arrival between the airport and the Oro Verde Hotel (transfer provided by the Oro Verde Hotel if you do not arrive with the group) Group transfers between the Oro Verde Hotel and the airport for the Galápagos flights Scheduled departure transfer between the airport and hotel, as provided by the Oro Verde Hotel *Specific sizes of wet suits may be reserved for a fee of $25 per wet suit Pre-departure Preparation: You will receive extensive, personalized information on all aspects of your Galápagos safari, including passports and visas, packing recommendations, electricity, currency and local customs. Not included in your Galápagos safari price: Transportation between your home and Guayaquil, Ecuador, passports and visas (Ecuador requires that your passport be valid for six months after your visit and have one blank visa page), travel insurance, immunizations and medical precautions, tips and gratuities, excess baggage charges, airline fuel surcharges, credit or debit card fees, alcoholic beverages other than local beer and house wine served during dinner on the Galápagos cruise, and items of a personal nature, such as medical expenses; medical emergency evacuation; room service; film and processing; souvenirs; telephone and internet charges; and any activities not included in the itinerary or those activities listed as optional.
WORLD SAFARIS REGISTRATION FORM Name of Safari: Galápagos Adventure hosted by Becky Ellsworth, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium Safari dates: October 6-14, 2018 Cabin prices are based on the deck and occupancy, as shown, and are subject to availability. Single accommodations may be available on the Iguana Deck and, if available, are subject to an additional single room supplement of $3495. Please indicate the number of reservations below: ( ) Iguana Deck $5995 - Double/Twin (two sharing a cabin) ( ) Iguana Deck single ( ) Booby Deck - $6445 - Double/Twin (two sharing a cabin) ( ) Dolphin Deck - $6895 - Double/Twin (two sharing a cabin) A $1700 per person deposit is required to reserve a place for each traveler on this safari. The remaining balance is due no later than May 1, 2018. A minimum of 10 paying travelers is required for this safari. Enclosed is $ as a deposit for a total of travelers on this safari. Name of person(s) sharing accommodations Air transportation between your home and Guayaquil, Ecuador is not included in the safari price. SCHEDULES & FARES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND MAY RESULT IN PRICE INCREASES I certify that I have read, understand and accept the terms of the "Cancellations" and "Terms and Conditions" included in this brochure, and; 1. I am aware that medical services or facilities may not be readily available during all or part of my trip. This includes emergency medical care, presence of physicians, and adequate medication. I hereby release World Safaris, their staff and safari escorts from liability in case of accident or illness while I am participating in this safari and do further agree to absolve from all responsibility World Safaris, their staff and safari escorts from all loss, damage or expense which I may incur by reason of any such accident or illness. 2. I shall be responsible for all uninsured medical expenses. 3. I hereby authorize necessary hospitalization and/or treatment while I am participating in this safari. 4. I assume the risk for traveling in countries where standards of safety, maintenance, and health may not be common to those in the United States. 5. If I make my own air arrangements, I must provide World Safaris with a copy of my flight confirmation. 6. I understand that weather and other conditions may necessitate changes in the activities and schedule of this safari. Signature: Today's Date: Signature: Today's Date: Please note: Your signature on this form indicates that you understand and accept the terms and conditions of this safari. Registrations are not accepted without a signature and a deposit. The signature of a parent or legal guardian is required for anyone under 18 at the time of registration. Make checks payable and mail to: World Safaris, P.O. Box 1254, Clemmons, NC 27012
COLUMBUS ZOO AND AQUARIUM DISCLAIMER: Columbus Zoo and Aquarium (hereafter Zoo ) is not the tour operator. Zoo is not responsible for changes of flight times, fare changes, dishonor of airline, hotel or car rental reservations, delays, losses, injuries, inconveniences, cessation of operations, airline or tour operator bankruptcies, acts of God, or any other event beyond Zoo s control. Zoo acts only as agent for participants with respect to travel services, and it shall not be responsible for changes of flight times, fare changes, dishonor of airline, hotel or other reservations, injury, damage, loss of baggage, accidents or for the acts or defaults of any person or entity engaged in conveying participants or in carrying out other arrangements of the tour. Further, Zoo shall not be responsible for losses or additional expenses of any participants due to sickness, weather, strike, civil unrest, acts of terrorism, quarantine, acts of God, or other causes beyond its control. Zoo shall not be responsible for alteration of the itinerary as deemed necessary for carrying out the tour and the right is reserved to substitute hotels of similar quality. The right is further reserved to cancel any tour prior to departure; in which case the entire payment will be refunded without further obligation on Zoo s part. The right is also reserved to decline to accept or to retain any person as a member of the tour should such person s health, actions or general deportment in the opinion of Zoo impede the operation of the tour or the rights or welfare of the other participants. No refund will be made for the unused portion of any tour. Applicants for participation in this tour accept in full all the conditions set forth above. TRAVEL INSURANCE: The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium strongly recommends that you purchase a travel insurance program which covers baggage, medical costs, trip interruption and cancellation. World Safaris nor the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium are liable for any accident, injury, or illness, and are not liable for theft, damage, or loss of personal effects or baggage. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium offers a comprehensive insurance package which allows the Pre-Existing Condition Exclusion to be waived if purchased within 21 days of the initial trip payment. Information will be sent to you upon receipt of your reservation and deposit. For details you can call the Zoo at 614-724-3558, or go to the Zoo s website at: https://www.travelinsure.com/select?/pcode=33004/. TERMS AND CONDITIONS World Safaris and our representatives agree to work for you in the making of reservations and/or other arrangements with travel service providers on the following terms: We do not own, manage, control, or operate any of the travel service providers with whom we make your travel arrangements. We serve as agents for certain travel service providers, including Airlines Corporation carriers and in-country operators and we make your travel arrangements with these travel service providers in accordance with their terms and conditions. Should you have any questions concerning those, please contact either the travel service provider or World Safaris. All coupons, exchange orders, receipts, contracts and tickets issued by us or a travel service provider are subject to applicable tariffs as well as any terms or conditions imposed by the travel services provider. We are not responsible for events of force majeure including disease, acts of war, terrorist attacks, unfavorable weather conditions, earthquakes, political instability or for inadequate visas or passports. Any and all controversies, clams or disputes of any nature arising before, on and after the date of this agreement and claims brought by or against the client, this travel agency, or a third party, shall be settled by a single arbitrator in Forsyth County, North Carolina in accordance with the rules of the American Arbitration Association. You acknowledge that this agreement involves interstate commerce. Our sole knowledge and the expertise on which you may rely are in the making of travel arrangements. In the case of all
travel arrangements the contract in use by the provider of such transportation or lodging, shall constitute the sole contract between the passenger and such travel supplier. World Safaris reserves the right to cancel or withdraw the safari prior to departure and to decline to accept or retain any person as a participant of the safari if their actions impose upon or disturb the other participants of the safari. The right is also reserved to amend the itinerary should it be found necessary for the benefit of the participants of the safari or for other reasons. By accepting these travel arrangements you confirm that you have read this agreement and understand that it is the sum total of our agreement with you and supersedes all prior arrangements or understandings. This agreement cannot be changed except in writing and signed by Michael Hutchins or Thomas LaRock. group travel or who may require care and attention beyond that which World Safaris can provide. To assist you in preparing to make the most of your safari, you will receive a detailed personal Safari Guide after you register for your Galápagos Islands safari. We strongly recommend you read it thoroughly when you receive it and, again, a few weeks before your departure. You may call us at any time for answers to your questions. Please Complete the Traveler Information Form CANCELLATION: All cancellations must be submitted in writing and are subject to the following cancellation fees: The deposit generally covers the costs of canceling the services already booked, if the cancellation is received in our office no later than December 31, 2017. If the fees charged by our suppliers exceed the deposit, an extra charge may apply. A minimum cancellation fee of $500 will apply to all cancellations. Cancellations received in our office after December 31, 2018 are subject to cancellation fees of 100% of the safari price. Refunds for any services that are voluntarily not used will not be issued. HEALTH RECOMMENDATIONS: To enjoy your travels to the fullest, you should be in good physical and mental health. Any physical disability requiring special attention or treatment must be reported in writing to World Safaris when the reservation is made. World Safaris reserves the right to refuse or revoke travel to anyone who is, in the sole judgment of World Safaris, in such physical or mental condition as to be incapable of
TRAVELER INFORMATION: Please complete the following for each traveler. PLEASE PRINT YOUR NAME EXACTLY AS IT APPEARS ON YOUR PASSPORT Name Address: Date of Birth Phones: Home/Office Mobile E-mail Address: Nickname Passport Number Country of Issue Date of Expiration Person to contact in case of emergency & relationship (spouse, child, parent, friend) Phone numbers Contact address E-Mail List the names of medications you are currently taking, dietary preferences or requirements, allergies (including food allergies), disabilities or special health care needs that may affect your ability to fully participate in this safari: Please give us any other information you feel would be helpful: Health Insurance Company: Policy # Signature: Today's Date: PLEASE ENCLOSE A COPY OF THE PHOTO PAGE OF YOUR PASSPORT