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IN THE WAKE OF DARWIN:
GALAPAGOS ADVENTURE

Weekly Departures Year-Round

T R I P  B A C K G R O U N D

Located 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the remote Galapagos Archipelago offers a unique opportunity to observe and study an incredible variety of wildlife and intriguing flora in one of the Earth’s greatest natural laboratories. In a stark, volcanic landscape, millions of sea birds, land and marine iguanas, fur seals and sea lions, and the endangered Galapagos tortoise make their home, largely unaffected by and unafraid of humans.  The Galapagos Islands are world-famous for their incredibly fearless wildlife and exotic vegetation. Ninety-six percent of the reptiles, 47% of the plants, and 37% of the fish are found nowhere else in the world. Well known for the part they played in helping Darwin to formulate his theory of evolution, the islands still provide unlimited possibilities for exploration and discovery.

After a brief (but highly interesting) visit to Quito you'll begin your seven-night cruise aboard a first class or deluxe motor yacht. With the yacht as your floating home, you will explore the more important islands: Tower, South Plaza, North Seymour, Fernandina, Isabela, Santa Cruz, Espanola, Santiago, Bartolome, and Baltra. You'll spend your days hiking (easy), observing and photographing wildlife, snorkeling/swimming with sealions and penguins, or just relaxing.  This trip to the Galapagos Islands is led by naturalists trained at the Darwin Station and certified by the National Park service. The leaders provide nature interpretation during the day and informal lectures in the evening. We offer yachts of varying sizes and will be glad to discuss the comparative advantages of each in relation to your priorities.

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Special Lecture/Cultural excursion: This adventure includes your choice of one lecture/special cultural excursion. Topics include Ecuadorian Cosmography (with a visit to the Solar Museum); Shamanism and Natural Healing; Ecuadorian Painting (Guayasamin); Archaeology (excellent collection at Museo del Banco Central); Ecuadorian handcrafts (Folklore Olga Fish Studio); Conservation in Ecuador; Flora and Fauna of the Ecuadorian Amazon; Ecuadorian Volcanoes; Observatorio Astronómico, the oldest in South America, houses the unique Merz equatorial telescope. Delivered by a local expert, this lecture or special cultural visit will supplement your more traditional sightseeing. Some lectures/visits may not be available on certain departures.

Fly from the U.S. to Quito, Ecuador. You will be met and privately transferred to your hotel for rest and relation. Brief evening orientation. Hotel Sebastian - 4 stars

Note: Optional upgrade to the deluxe Swissotel is available for a total surcharge of approximately $120 per person for 3 nights.

This morning you'll go on a private tour of Quito, Ecuador’s delightful highland capital. Quito retains the old-world Spanish atmosphere, with golden cathedrals and cobblestone streets. In fact, colonial Quito was the first World Heritage Site to be proclaimed by UNESCO. You'll also enjoy a supplemental lecture or special cultural excursion (topics listed above). Hotel Sebastian (B)

Morning flight to the Galapagos. The Galapagos Islands are world-famous for their incredibly fearless wildlife and exotic vegetation.  Ninety-six percent of the reptiles, 47% of the plants, and 37% of the fish are found nowhere else in the world. Well known for the part they played in helping Darwin to formulate his theory of evolution, the islands still provide unlimited possibilities for exploration and discovery.

Upon arrival to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, San Cristobal Island, you'll be transferred to the yacht. After the welcome briefing and safety drill we'll set sail for Playa Ochoa, where we have a chance to test our snorkeling equipment and at the same time swim with a small colony of sea lions.  Behind the beach, there is a tidal lagoon where bird can be spotted including the rare Chatham mockingbird. At sunset, we cruise around Kicker Rock (Leon Dormido), a vertical tuff cone formation that abruptly juts up almost 500 feet out of the ocean.  On the cliffs, we find blue-footed boobies, masked boobies and magnificent frigate birds.

Accommodations will be in a standard cabin onboard a first class vessel such as the Eric, Flamingo, Letty, Tip Top 3 or similar. Deluxe upgrades available (e.g. Coral I, Coral II, Eclipse, Parranda, Beluga, Sagita, Legend, Galapagos Explorer II, Isabella 2, Lammer Law or similar). (B,L,D)

We spend the entire day on Tower (Genovesa), considered to be one of the most spectacular Islands in Galapagos for bird species.  This morning, we have 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, we find storm petrels in large numbers.  If you are lucky, we will see the elusive short-eared owl.

After lunch, sea kayaks are available to paddle along the shoreline.  Look for the beautiful red-billed tropic bird usually seen in a crevice.   A snorkeling opportunity is offered along the inner rim of the volcanic crater. We land on 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. The males inflate their red-throated pouches to attract females as they fly overhead.  The trail leads through a rich inter tidal zone where we find a wide diversity of animal life. Swim from the beach with sea lions. (B,L,D)

This morning, we visit Las Bachas, which is the Spanish translation for “barges”.  There is a long stretch of a soft white-sand beach and interior lagoons where we find the Greater Flamingo.  There is also a wonderful chance to snorkel here from the beach.  Remnants of the U.S. presence from World War II – a floating pier -  is found here.

This afternoon, we disembark on North Seymour, a small geological uplift.  After a dry landing, we follow a trail that leads us to swallow-tailed gulls, blue-footed boobies and the endemic land iguanas. Visit the largest colony of magnificent frigate birds found in Galapagos.  As we stroll along the beach, sea lions body surfing the northern swells. (B,L,D)

This morning, we visit Tagus Cove, located on the western Island of Isabela.   Six volcanoes flowed together and formed the largest Island in Galapagos.  On our walk, we discover a salt-water lagoon, a scenic overlook with a spectacular view of the ocean, lava fields and volcanic formations.  Graffiti dating back to the 1800's is written on the rocky cliffs.  Explore the Cove in pangas or sea kayaks to find Galapagos penguins, boobies, pelicans and other seabirds.   After lunch, we cross the Bolivar Canal.  Be on the look out for whales and dolphins riding the bow wave.

We disembark at Punta Espinoza, Fernandina, the youngest and most pristine Island found in Galapagos. 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 nest on the point and Galapagos Hawks fly overhead.  Recent lava flows formed by an active volcano stretch their way around the coast.   A snorkel here provides opportunities to see many sea turtles. (B,L,D)

This morning, stroll along the shore at Puerto Egas, Santiago (James) looking for octopus, starfish and other sea life caught in the tide pools.   At low tide, catch a glimpse of marine iguanas as they feed on exposed green algae. Watch for great blue herons, lava herons, American oystercatchers and yellow-crowned night herons. Our walk ends at the grottos, deep pools of clear water where we encounter fur sea lions once  on  the  verge of extinction. Before returning to the yacht, there is a snorkeling opportunity with loads of tropical fish.

On Bartolome, it seems like we are walking on the moon. This young Island is inhospitable to most plants and animals.  After a dry landing, climb 30 minutes up stairs leading to the summit of a once active volcano. Along the way, we pause to marvel at lava bombs, spatter cones and cinder cones.  From the top of the wooden stairs, we can gaze out across the island for a panoramic view of the island and "Pinnacle Rock", an eroded tuff cone.  Down below, crystal clear water is an invitation to snorkel with schools of tropical fish and Galapagos Penguins. On the other side of the Island, encounter sea turtles and white-tipped sharks. (B,L,D)

Friday is feeding day at the tortoise corals at the Charles Darwin Research Station. We visit all three tortoise corals and the breeding center with new hatchlings and miniature tortoises not yet ready to be repatriated. 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 where there are exhibits and a short video presentation. Visitors can now see the pen of Lonesome George, the last surviving member of the Pinta Island subspecies.

After lunch on board, we travel by bus to the highlands of Santa Cruz Island. The scenery gradually changes as we wind our way through all seven vegetation zones found in Galapagos. From June to January, we can find giant tortoises on a private farm in the highlands. We visit Los Gemelos, Spanish for “The Twins”, a pair of large pit craters where we find the bright red male vermilion flycatcher. We stop at "the tunnels", the largest lava tubes found in Galapagos. Stroll through the town of Puerto Ayora (population: 15,000) the largest town in the Galapagos. Buy souvenirs, mail postcards or kick back at an internet cafe in the social heart of the Islands. (B,L,D)

This morning, step onto Gardner Bay, Espanola (Hood). Walk along seemingly endless stretches of 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 you may find a Galapagos Hawk, Darwin’s Finches or Hood Mockingbird. Swim with sea lions from the beach. There’s an excellent snorkeling site off Gardner Islet with a colorful diversity of sea life near Gardner Islet and Tortuga Rock with caves covered with invertebrates.

This afternoon, we disembark at Punta Suarez, Espanola, where we witness the highest rate of endemic species in Galapagos. Sea lions noisily green 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. Observe a unique specie of marine iguana identified with traces of red and green colorings. Colorful sally light-foot crabs crawl along the shoreline near to the famous "blow hole". This is the scene most people envision when they decide to visit Galapagos and is a glorious finale to your Galapagos cruise. (B,L,D)

This morning, we drop anchor in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, San Cristobal. We visit the Interpretation Center opened in 1999. Here we gain a more complete understanding of the natural and human history of the Islands. Afterwards, we head straight to the airport for our flight back to the mainland. Upon arrival you will be met and privately transferred back to your hotel. Hotel Sebastian (B)

Note: Cruise itinerary may change depending on the particular yacht, flights, weather conditions, conservation emergencies or other factors. The above itinerary is based on the Eric/Flamingo/Letty. Please contact us for information on other itineraries.

Private morning transfer to the Quito airport for flight back to the USA. (B)

End of Trip

(Code: B-Breakfast; L-Lunch; D-Dinner)

*Deluxe upgrades available.

Land Cost Includes:
• Accommodations (10 nights) in first class hotel and yacht based on double occupancy
• All elective "soft" adventures (hiking,snorkeling and kayaking)
• Private tour with bilingual guide
• Supplemental lecture
• 24 meals (see itinerary)
• Private transfers and land transportation

E X T E N S I O N O P T I O N S
Nature Expeditions International also offers trip extensions to Peru (Cuzco and Machu Picchu) and to the Amazon rainforest (at a native lodge or onboard a small comfortable ship). Please also inquire about our "Shaman/Magical Mystery" tours which explore the traditions and natural healing methods of the Indians of the Andes (set departure dates). To receive further detailed information, please call (800) 869-0639 or e-mail us at info@naturexp.com.

S H I P  D E S C R I P T I O N S

NEI employs both first class and deluxe yachts. These vessels are safe, clean, well-maintained, and comfortable. Each ship carries multilingual naturalist guides trained at the Charles Darwin Station in the Galapagos Islands.

First class yachts that we recommend include the Eric, Coral, Coral 2, Flamingo and Letty. Deluxe vessels we recommend include the Beluga, Sagitta, and the Eclipse although we can also arrange passage onboard larger vessels such as the Legend, Santa Cruz, Galapagos Explorer II, and Isabella II. Other ships that we occasionally use (but are not limited to) include the Tip Top 3, Alta, Parranda, and Lammerlaw.

The M/Y Eric, Flamingo, and Letty, at 83-feet long and 24-feet wide, are all identical customized yachts especially designed for sailing in the Galapagos with cruising speeds of 12 knots. Ten outside cabins are located among the three decks, each with private bathroom (shower), hot/cold fresh water, and air conditioning.

The Corals, "sister" yachts, graciously accommodate 20 & 36 passengers, each with air-conditioned cabins with private baths. Custom designed, and recently refurbished, all interiors are beautifully decorated in dark teakwood and bronze.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Trip Grade: Easy. Transportation is by first class or deluxe motor/sailing yacht with sleeping accommodations in double berth cabins. As is typical on small motor/sailing vessels, space is limited below deck. Physical activities are low intensity and elective. They include nature walks, travel in small skiffs to observe wildlife, swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. In general, this trip is for anyone in good health who enjoys the ocean and doesn’t mind the limited accommodations on a motor/sailing ship.

Land Cost Includes: All ship/land transportation and private transfers as stated in the itinerary; accommodations in first class hotel and yacht based on double occupancy (upgrades available); all soft adventures; 24 meals; private tour with bilingual guide; supplemental lecture; service and handling charges.

Land Cost Does Not Include: Airfares (quoted separately); meals in Quito; excess baggage charges; tips to boat crew and guides; alcoholic beverages; laundry, passports or visas, personal insurance, other personal items; airport departure taxes; hotel nights en route or return from Ecuador; Galapagos National Park fee. (Please note that the Galapagos National Park fee is $100, subject to change).

Accommodations: Accommodations on the mainland are based on double occupancy in a first class hotel. There are double-berth cabins aboard each of the motor yachts. Singles who sign up may be paired with a roommate if they want to minimize the single supplement charge. Call for details.

Climate: Located on the Equator, the Galapagos Islands show little variation in season and temperature during the year. Humidity is generally moderate and temperatures average in the 80’s or upper 70’s. The Galapagos are in a dry zone due to offshore winds, the cold Humboldt Current, and location in the rainshadow caused by the Andes Mountains. Yet the islands are close enough to the Equatorial rain belt and warm waters of the South Pacific for occasional rainy years and a generally warm climate. Be prepared for some rain, especially on the mainland.

Reservations and Payments: A deposit of $400 with the completed reservation form will ensure you a place on this trip. Final payment of the land cost is due 60 days prior to departure.

Cancellations and Refunds: The initial deposit for the trip is refundable up to 90 days before departure, less a $200 handling fee. Any cancellation occurring between 60 and 89 days will result in a cancellation penalty of $400 (the full deposit) based on nonrecoverable deposits and expenses. Any cancellation occurring between 30 and 59 days will result in a cancellation penalty of 50% of the trip cost. Unless a suitable replacement can be found, there will be no refunds for any cancellation within 29 days of departure. There are no refunds for any unused meals, accommodations or other trip activities. In certain cases, the cancellation policies of NEI's subcontractors will supersede NEI's policy.

Insurance: Trip cancellation, accident and baggage insurance are recommended and will be offered to all participants. Trip cancellation insurance is strongly advised; this will protect you in the case of cancellation due to personal or family illness.

Responsibility: Nature Expeditions International is responsible for conducting this trip as outlined in the published itinerary. It reserves the right, however, to cancel the trip should it become affected by conditions beyond the company’s control. In such an event, NEI will return all monies paid to it by the affected participants as full and final settlement. NEI also reserves the right to substitute other lodging during the trip or to change the guide(s), itinerary, or travel arrangements if the guide(s) believes it is in the best interest of all participants. In addition, NEI may decline to accept or retain any member or prospective member of an announced trip. Full refund for the unused portion of the trip will be paid to the affected participant in such an event.

Airline Clause: All arrangements for airline transportation are made by the respective airlines, which companies shall not have or incur any responsibility or liability to any person taking a trip except their liability as common carriers. Nor shall such carriers be or be held responsible for any act, omission, or event occurring after the passenger has disembarked from the conveyance. The usual passage contract in use by the carrier, when issued, shall constitute the sole contract between said carrier and the passenger. All rates are based on tariffs currently or those tariffs to be placed in effect and are subject to adjustment in the event of changes therein. The air transportation services of any IATA/ARC member may be used.