PRIVATE TRIP - EXPLORING THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS MARCH 22-31, 2019 HIGHLIGHTS TRIP SUMMARY Immerse yourself in the amazing biodiversity of the world renowned Galapagos Stay on three different islands and learn about the unique aspects of each Swim and snorkel among sea lions and brightly colored fish Hike to the rim of a volcano and see the effects of a 12 year old eruption Phone: 877-439-4042 Outside the US: 410-435-1965 Fax: 410-435-3084 Email: info@goodadventure.com
TRIP AT A GLANCE Dates: Mar 22-31, 2019 Location: Galapagos Islands, Ecuador Cost: $2,650.00 Activities: Multisport Arrive: Plan to arrive at the Quito airport (UIO) by 4pm on March 22 Depart: Leave anytime on March 31 unless you are staying on for the Amazon Jungle TRIP OVERVIEW The Galapagos Islands are loved the world over for their rich and accessible wildlife and fantastic geology. Widely known as the place where Darwin confirmed his theory of evolution, it also offers the opportunity for intimate viewing of wildlife on sea and land. In the Galapagos we'll swim with sea lions, snorkel in clear waters teeming with brightly colored fish, hike to a volcanic crater, and walk within a few feet of blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, and Giant Tortoises. Our journey takes you to three unique islands as well as many coves and inlets that include a wealth of wildlife. THIS IS A PRIVATE TRIP RATING This trip is appropriate for women in good physical condition who want to spend 3 to 5 hours every day actively exploring the Galapagos, including hiking, swimming, and kayaking. With the exception of the hike up Sierra Negra Volcano, none of the days are strenuous; however, the days are full and some will involve early mornings. There are several opportunities to snorkel on this trip and being comfortable in the water is important if you want to snorkel. There are also several speedboat transfers and while the ocean is typically calmer this time of year, this trip may not be a good choice if you are very prone to seasickness. Please note, as in all international travel, flexibility is an absolute must and the ability to set aside our western expectations and enjoy the culture and country will make for a wonderfully enjoyable trip. Rating: 1 [2] 3 4 5. WHAT'S INCLUDED A dedicated English-speaking naturalist guide in the Galapagos. There will not be an AGC guide on this trip Internal flights to the Galapagos Islands and private speed boat transport between islands. Double occupancy lodging in hotels (9 nights) Meals as noted on the itinerary All activities on the itinerary Airport arrival transfer if arriving on first day of trip. Gratuities for day guides, drivers, boat crews and lodges Not included: Travel to and from Quito, Galapagos National Park Entry Fee ($100), Galapagos Transit Card ($20), Isabela Port Fee ($5), alcoholic beverages, guide gratuities, travel insurance, meals not noted on itinerary, optional activities not on the itinerary.
OUR ITINERARY Below is the proposed itinerary for the trip. As is true on any adventure travel trip, plans for any specific day may be modified due to weather considerations, unforeseen circumstances, new opportunities, and group interests. DAY 1 MARCH 22, FRIDAY Our trip starts in Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Ecuador's Capital City. At over 9,000 feet, Quito is the highest capital city in the world and it is likely you'll experience some symptoms of breathlessness as you walk around. The hotel has an airport shuttle so you can arrive anytime. We'll gather at 5 pm in the lobby for introductions and a trip orientation before sharing our first dinner together. Overnight Hotel Wyndam Quito or similar. D DAY 2 MARCH 23, SATURDAY It's back to the airport early this morning for our flight to the Galapagos! Today will be a long travel day but it will be mitigated by our excitement about being in the Galapagos. We arrive in Baltra, formerly the location of an air base built by the US Navy during WW II, located just off Santa Cruz Island and one of the two main airports in the Galapagos. After paying our Galapagos National Park Entry fee ($100 each), we transfer to Itabaca Channel where our we board our waiting speed boat for a 2.5 hour trip to Isabela Island. This seahorse-shaped island is the largest in the archipelago at 80 miles in length. Despite its remarkable beauty, Isabela is not a stop on most Galapagos cruises, making it a less-visited site perfect for our adventures. Isabela was formed approximately one million years ago by the merger of six shield volcanoes: Alcedo, Cerro Azul, Darwin, Ecuador, Sierra Negra, and Wolf, all but one of which are still active. Two of the volcanoes, Wolf and Cerro Azul, stretch above the cloud cover and are therefore arid on their upper flanks. Because it is a relatively young island, Isabela's lava fields and surrounding soil do not have the varied vegetation zones of other islands. Despite this, the rich animal, bird, and marine life are beyond compare. Upon arrival on Puerto Villamil, the main town on Isabela, we check into San Vicente Hotel. On a walking tour we'll start learning about and get oriented to the area. Overnight San Vicente Hotel or similar. B, D
DAY 3 MARCH 24, SUNDAY We start our first full day on Isla Isabela with a short transport to the Tortoise Breeding Center, an initiative of the National Park for the conservation of Isabela's tortoises. With almost a thousand giant tortoises training for life on their own, we'll observe giant tortoises in all stages of development. After our visit, we'll walk back to town through the marshlands or humedales where elevated walkways take us over tidal lagoons that include four mangrove species and provide habitat for flamingos and numerous migratory birds. We'll arrive back to the village with plenty of time to choose your lunch spot and relax a bit before the afternoon activities. The afternoon begins with a boat ride to the small isolated islet of Tintoreras or Shark Alley. This island is a unique volcanic formation. On its west face a primitive species of lichen flourishes in the moisture brought by the prevailing wind. This is a popular iguana nesting site that's home to hundreds of marine iguanas. In the quiet lagoon there are also boobies, penguins and other birds. We'll explore by boat and then by foot, walking through the volcanic rock and observing the wildlife and then, we'll explore by water - snorkeling! We'll snorkel in a calm inlet with colorful fish and winding underground lava tubes. This area is frequented by green sea turtles that like to rest on the calm, sandy bottom. In the late afternoon, we'll return to town in search of our own sandy resting spot and enjoy our first Isabela sunset, arguably the most beautiful of all the islands. B, D DAY 4 MARCH 25, MONDAY After breakfast this morning we drive to the highlands of Isabela for an entirely new view and feel of the Galapagos (and likely our most challenging day of the trip). After a 4 5minute drive we reach the starting point of our hike up Sierra Negra, one of the most active volcanoes in the Galapagos. It last erupted on October 22, 2005 and deposited a new and dramatic layer of lava. The caldera of this volcano is the second largest in the world, with a diameter of approximately six and a half miles. On our hike, 4-9 miles depending on our energy and the weather, we can spot a variety of birds, including finches and flycatchers and if we're lucky, the Galapagos hawk. From the rim of the caldera we hike to Chico Volcano to see fumaroles and the unusual lava formations, a striking visual record of the geological history of these islands. From our highest vantage points, we'll enjoy views of Isabela's other volcanoes and nearby islands. Returning to the starting point of our hike and then driving back to town, we'll have time for a walk to the beach for a cool swim, or perhaps a stroll in town. B, L
DAY 5 MARCH 26, TUESDAY We'll begin the day with a with a kayak excursion in a protected bay. While here, we'll search for the protected Galapagos penguin - the only penguin found close the equator. It's also the smallest and looks like a duck until you see it out of the water. Along the way, we'll also keep an eye out for eagle rays, sea turtles, and blue-footed boobies. In the afternoon we head by boat to Isla Santa Cruz (about 2.5 hours), also called Indefatigable Island. The tourist capital of the Galapagos, Santa Cruz is located in the center of the Galapagos Islands archipelago. It is also the center of human activity, since the National Park Headquarters, the Darwin Research Station, and the largest settlement in the Galapagos Islands, Puerto Ayora, are all located on Academy Bay on the south side of Santa Cruz Island. We'll check in to the hotel and then go for a short walking tour of Puerto Ayora. Our hotel is close to the center of town and if you have been wanting to do some shopping, there are lots of choices here. Overnight Lobo de Mar hotel (http://www.lobodemar.com.ec) or similar. B, D DAY 6 MARCH 27, WEDNESDAY Santa Cruz is the only island having a road that crosses its interior (running from Puerto Ayora in the south to the Itabaca Channel crossing in the north), thus providing visitors a rare opportunity to see the interior and higher elevations of a Galapagos island. This morning we drive to the Santa Cruz highlands where we will see wild Galapagos Tortoises. These huge creatures weigh 200 to 500 pounds and are scattered all over the island. Walking on level paths gives us the chance to observe the giant tortoise roaming in its natural habitat. Returning to town, in the afternoon we'll walk to Tortuga Bay, a gorgeous beach accessible only by foot. Do you prefer swimming, sunbathing, or bodysurfing? Or all 3? It's totally up to you. B, L DAY 7 MARCH 28, THURSDAY This morning we'll visit the Charles Darwin Station, formerly the home of Lonesome George, the famous of his subspecies on Pinta Island. We'll learn about the Foundation's successes in repopulating the islands with the once endangered land iguana and several species of giant tortoise, and see the most representative animals of the islands. In the afternoon we'll take a speed boat to San Cristobal (about 2.5 hours), our last island on this journey. San Cristobal Island is the easternmost island in the archipelago chain. It is also one of the oldest and thus its volcanic peaks are greatly eroded and vegetation is more abundant than on the other islands. Upon arrival in the provincial capital and second-largest town in Galapagos, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, we'll have some time to settle into our hotel, Casa de Nelly, before going on a walking tour to get oriented to the town. Overnight Casa de Nelly or similar B, D
DAY 8 MARCH 29, FRIDAY This may be your favorite day, particularly if you like snorkeling. It begins with a short boat ride to Sea Lion Island where we'll disembark and take a short hike through and around the island observing the Frigatebird and their unusual mating rituals. The males have a distinctive red throat pouch, which they inflate during the breeding season to attract females. Sea lions and Blue Footed Boobies are also inhabitants and entertainers on the island. After observing the island by land, we'll next observe it by water -- snorkeling! We'll snorkel the length of the island on the lagoon side where we'll be treated to a beautiful array of tropical fish and sea stars. We'll most likely be joined by playful young sea lions and enjoy their graceful antics in the sea. After snorkeling, we'll return to the boat for lunch and then head over to Ochoa Beach where we can choose between finding a shady spot to relax, soak up some sun on the beach or float around in this gorgeous lagoon watching for turtles -- or, maybe all three! Returning to Isla San Cristobal we'll have a bit of free time to do whatever we want. Perhaps you might go for a hike to Frigate Bird Hill for panoramic views of the Pacific Islands and some bird watching. Or you may find it hard to leave Mann Beach, with its delightful setting and more opportunities to swim with sea lions. Perhaps you just want to sit on a quiet beach and reflect on everything you've seen and done in the past 2 weeks. However you want to spend it, it will be just perfect. B, L DAY 9 MARCH 30, SATURDAY This morning we'll visit the Interpretation Center where we'll learn about the history of the 'Enchanted Islands' and the conservation projects which seek to preserve the unique Galapagos wildlife. It's a fitting way to spend our last time here and particularly meaningful after we've seen it all up front. And then it's time to head to the airport for our flight back to Quito and transfer to the hotel. If you're extending your trip to the Amazon Jungle (which we recommend if time allows), you'll have a briefing that afternoon along with anyone who is joining for just that portion. Afterwards you'll share a final farewell dinner, saying goodbye to each other and to this amazing country. B, D DAY 10 MARCH 31, SUNDAY This morning our adventure comes to an end. There are no planned activities and you can leave whenever you want. Our hotel is located almost directly across from the airport with a convenient airport shuttle.
ADDITIONAL TRIP INFORMATION GETTING THERE You will be flying into the Mariscal Sucre Airport (UIO) in Quito, Ecuador. The airport has a shuttle and you can arrive anytime. If you would like help with any travel plans we recommend our travel agent Barbara Phillip, Scan East West Travel, at barbara@scaneastwest.com or call 206-209-5831. ACCOMMODATIONS We will spend the first and last nights in Quito at the Wyndham Airport Hotel, which offers an airport shuttle for arrival and departure convenience. In the Galapagos we'll be staying at three different locally-owned and small hotels (see itinerary for specifics). In every hotel the rooms are double occupancy with ensuite bathrooms. Vegetarian options for this trip will be limited. Other types of dietary needs cannot be accommodated unless supplemental food is brought. Please note any dietary needs on your registration form and be sure to talk with the office prior to making any non-refundable reservations. Of note: Purified/filtered water is available (free of charge) at all the accommodations that will be used during your trip. Water will be provided in large containers to enable you to fill and re-fill your personal water bottles and/or hydration systems. WEATHER Ecuador is on the equator and the weather varies with the location. Because Quito is at high elevation, the climate is cool with highs in the 60s and lows in the 40s. In the Amazon Rainforest, it's normally hot, humid, and sunny with average high temperatures in the mid-80s to 90s. Rainstorms can occur at any time of the day and April is about average for rainfall. In the Galapagos, it is sea currents that dictate temperature and weather conditions, specifically, the cold Humboldt Current from the south and the warm El Nino current from the north. Each year is different, depending on the currents and whether it is an "El Nino" year. Historically, the month of March sees temperatures (Max/Min) of 88/75. Average water temperatures for March are in the 70s and 80s, delightful for swimming. TRAVEL INSURANCE WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND TRIP CANCELLATION/TRIP INTERRUPTION INSURANCE, WHICH COVERS YOUR COST IF YOU NEED TO CANCEL OR INTERRUPT YOUR TRIP for medical reasons, trip delay, lost baggage, and other unforeseen emergencies. Adventures in Good Company will send you information about travel insurance with your registration information, or you may purchase coverage through your own insurance company. In order to avoid disappointment and expense in the event that you must cancel your trip we strongly urge you to purchase some type of insurance coverage. You can also sign up for it online at Travelex Insurance. To get the best rates, use 20-0016 as your location number on the Get A Quote page.
PACKING LIST Please note: This packing list has been developed for women who are going on the Amazon Jungle Extension as well as the Galapagos trip and has been divided into 4 sections due to the distinct differences in climate and activities of the 3 areas you will be visiting (Quito, Galapagos Islands, Amazon Jungle). The last section will list items that are definitely common to all 3 areas such as sleepwear, etc. There will be a secure place to store items between trips. There will also be the opportunity to wash clothes between the Amazon and the Galapagos so you may be able to take advantage of any overlap in the packing list. Having the ability to leave items in Quito is especially important on this trip since there are several inter-island flights and luggage is limited to 35 total pounds/person - this includes your checked luggage and your carry on backpack. If you are not going to the Amazon, omit all the items in that section. QUITO: (only necessary if you are planning to spend time in Quito before or after your trip) FOOTWEAR 1 pair comfortable walking shoe for touring Quito. CLOTHING/EQUIPMENT Clothing suitable for touring Quito. Temps can be quite cool, long pants/long sleeve shirts suggested. Travel Umbrella Rain Jacket or rain poncho (For Quito, the rain jacket is recommended) Warm fleece/down jacket 1 buff for use as a neck gaiter 1 pair lightweight gloves AMAZON JUNGLE: FOOTWEAR 1 pair sturdy tennis shoes, running shoes or lightweight hiking boots or trail shoes. Note: You will be wearing rubber boots supplied by our Amazon partner for hiking. 1 pair sandals for use around lodge 1-2 pair hiking socks - you might consider knee socks for use with rubber boots that are provided. The boots are calf height and many participants find that the knee socks will help with possible chafing. (Trust me, your rubber boots will become your very best friend!) 1-2 pair lighter weight socks for use around lodge. 1 pair inner soles (prescription or over the counter) for use with rubber boots. We recommend Super Feet see notes on Packing List. CLOTHING/EQUIPMENT 1-2 pair lightweight pants: (Supplex, or nylon/polyester/spandex blend) 2 3 t-shirts (non-cotton) 1 lightweight, long sleeved shirt for sun protection (button up front is best) 1 brimmed hat, for rain and/or sun. 1 2 changes of comfortable clothes to wear around the lodge. Rain Jacket/pants or rain poncho. Travel Umbrella
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS: FOOTWEAR 1 pair lightweight hiking boots/shoes (on the volcano hike) 1 pair sturdy tennis shoes/trail shoes ( 1 pair sandals for use around hotel/village/etc. (If sandals are hiking sandals (sturdy) then can use in place of tennis shoes/trail shoes) 2 pair lightweight hiking socks CLOTHING/EQUIPMENT 1 pair lightweight pants: (Supplex, or nylon/polyester/spandex blend) 1-2 lightweight long-sleeved shirts (a kayaking/surfing shirt, called a rash guard is great for snorkeling and kayaking) Rain Jacket/pants or rain poncho. (Poncho recommended lightweight but sturdy) 1-2 pairs of shorts or ¾ pants. Non-cotton and quick drying. 2 3 t-shirts, non-cotton. 1 lightweight, long sleeved shirt for sun protection (button up front is best) 1 bathing suit - some women prefer ¾ leggings and long sleeved rash guard for snorkeling, kayaking, swimming. 1 2 changes of comfortable clothes to wear around the hotels and out to dinner (e.g. pants and/or skirt, with a couple of tops) ALL 3 AREAS: CLOTHING/EQUIPMENT Capacity to carry 2 liters of water 1 2 bandanas Headlamp or flashlight with extra bulb and batteries Small day pack for day use (hiking). Must be able to carry your rain gear, water, snacks, etc 1 wide-brimmed hat or baseball style for protection from sun/rain Underwear/nightwear ESSENTIALS Passport (and copy of passport) sunglasses plus retention strap: 100% UV blocking 2 3 gallon Ziploc bags (wet clothes) Watch with an alarm and/or small alarm clock Ear plugs (for a good night s sleep) Bug Repellant Sunscreen (30 or higher) Lip protection with sunscreen (SPF of at least 15) TOILETRIES (small everything) Soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, hand sanitizer, contact essentials, skin lotion, etc. Extra pair sunglasses (also glasses if you wear them) Personal first aid/patch kit - Band-Aids, 1 safety pin, moleskin, compeed (or blister bandages), ibuprofen, any personal medications Please note: Individuals who have had or have the potential for a severe allergic reaction to insect stings, specific foods or medications must bring an epi-pen. Please consult your physician and tell your guide. OPTIONAL
Camera and film/extra memory card One 2mm or 3mm wetsuit of a shorty style. (These can also be rented prior to snorkeling) Book, notebook, journal Favorite snack and Gatorade powder Binoculars waterproof camera box/bag Dry bag for personal items when on water. Beach cover up/sarong Small beach towel (can use hotel towels) Hiking poles are optional but will come in handy on the volcano hike if you normally use poles NOTES ON PACKING Adventures in Good Company's packing list covers everything you need to assure your safety and comfort. You may not use everything you bring; however, you need to come prepared for all possible weather conditions. At the same time, you must be able to carry your own luggage, sometimes up and down stairs. Daypacks: Your daypack should be large enough to hold the following items: 1 2 liters of water, rain gear, lunch/snacks (for the day), sun screen, warm layer (if needed for area) personal first aid kit, personal items such as camera, etc. We recommend a daypack with a capacity of between 24-30 Liters (1450-1850 cubic inches) with a hip belt, padded shoulder straps, and lifters. Line your daypack with a durable plastic bag to keep your belongings dry, or have an elasticized pack cover that fits snuggly over it. Before you leave home check to be sure that it is comfortable to wear all day and has sufficient space for all the items noted above and all personal items you like to carry. Personal First Aid Kit: Bring a small first aid kit with familiar medicine and first aid supplies you might need. Recommendations include the following: blister or foot remedies like moleskin, Compeed, blister bandages, or similar, a small role of duct tape (always useful!), remedies for respiratory ailments, stomach ailments, sore muscles or joints. The guides will have a first aid kit but having what you know works well for you is a good idea. Clothing: The clothing listed on the packing list has been chosen for your specific trip conditions and for its versatility for layering. NO COTTON for your active wear! It should all be made from synthetic/synthetic blends, down/down blends or wool/wool blends. Rain Gear: You will need a waterproof/breathable garment for this trip. Fabric like Gore-tex, HellyTech, Membrane, H2No, or Ultrex is recommended. Be sure the garment you choose does keep water out. A rain jacket works best in Quito where staying warm can sometimes be the issue when it is raining. In the jungle and then in the Galapagos, a poncho (the longer style) is recommended. Ponchos aren t quite as warm and also cover not only you but your backpack as well. Umbrellas are recommended for all 3 areas of your trip. If purchasing a rain poncho be sure to buy one that is sturdy. Dry Bags: If you choose to bring waterproof bags, several companies make vinyl bags with good closures (Sea to Summit, Phoenix, Outdoor Research, Cascade Designs). Oversize zip lock bags can also be used. Bringing your camera on the trip: in regard to the Galapagos island portion of the trip, ocean water is highly corrosive to camera equipment. We suggest you consider protecting your camera from the salt by packing it in a waterproof sports bag. Many outdoor retailers and most camera shops have inflatable bags that are waterproof, float, and cushion your camera against bumps. Phoenix, Basic Designs, and manufacturers of whitewater equipment make inflatable camera bags.