IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT THIS ITINERARY: This itinerary is subject to change without notice due to various factors including but not limited to: safety, weather, mechanical breakdown, unforeseen emergencies, and at the discretion of the Captain, Guide, ship operators and the Galápagos National Park. This itinerary is an accurate representation of what takes place during a typical trip through the Galápagos Islands at the indicated landing sites, as well as during the excursions in mainland Ecuador. The Galápagos is a natural ecosystem, making animal encounters there ultimately unpredictable and therefore exceptional in the way they typically occur. Though Galápagos species seem to have little fear of humans, they are wild animals subject to environmental factors, including their own instincts that can affect sightings, which means these encounters cannot be guaranteed. Accepting all these factors, including adhering to the rules of the Galápagos National Park, is a condition of participation on this trip.

DAYS 1 & 2

You are met upon arrival and escorted to your hotel in Quito, nestled deep within the valley of towering Andean volcanoes, at 10,000 feet above sea level. In 1978, Quito’s old town of more than 790 acres was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered the largest and best preserved historic center in the Americas. On Day 2, enjoy a tour of this historic city and drive up to Panecillo Hill to see the angel statue “Virgen de Quito” and take in the spectacular view. At the Equatorial Line Monument, stand in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. Next, visit the Ethnographic and Intiñan museums to learn about the geological and anthropological features of the region. (B)

Casa Gagnotena, Quito

DAY 3

Today, your 90-minute flight brings you to Baltra in the Galápagos Islands, where you are escorted aboard the elegant and newly renovated, 16-passenger M/Y Grace, your home for the next seven nights. This afternoon, visit Sombrero Chino, a tiny volcanic island with a white coral-sand beach where you can swim and snorkel with the sea lions and penguins. Tonight, enjoy a welcome cocktail and formal briefing about your cruise itinerary. (B,D)

You may choose from two cruise routings: either starting in Baltra and ending in San Cristobal; or starting in San Cristobal and ending in Baltra. The routes are different and do not overlap. The route described here begins in Baltra and ends in San Cristobal.

M/Y Grace

DAYS 4 - 9

Your voyage through these “enchanted islands” is filled with explorations of eight remarkably different and interesting islands in the company of your onboard naturalist guide. You’ll see an amazing variety of wildlife including sea turtles, sea lions, Marine Iguanas, giant Galápagos Land Iguanas, giant tortoises and countless fish and bird species. Daily activities include nature walks and hikes with skilled naturalists, snorkeling, kayaking, and exploration by motorized inflatable craft from your ship. Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and the Giant Tortoise Breeding and Rearing Program where old Lonesome George lived.

Though weather and operational restrictions may alter your specific itinerary, your cruise is scheduled to visit the following islands:

• Santa Fe Island – Perhaps the oldest island in the Galápagos, you may swim and snorkel here. Wildlife includes: sea turtles, sea lions, whitetip reef sharks, Galápagos Hawks, frigatebirds, pelicans, manta rays, and several species of land iguana. • South Plaza Island – One of the smallest islands, rich wildlife, an unparalleled bird observatory, and a huge sea lion colony feature here. Wildlife includes: land iguanas, Swallow-tailed Gulls, Red-billed Tropicbirds, marine-land iguana hybrids, and sea lions. • Tower Island – A submerged volcano, it is also known as “Bird Island.” Land at Phillip’s Steps and the white coral sands of Darwin Bay. Enjoy walking, hiking, kayaking, dinghy rides and deep-water snorkeling. Wildlife includes: Red-footed Boobies, Storm petrels, owls, frigatebirds, Swallow-tailed Gulls, Lava Gulls, Pintail ducks, and Giant Manta Rays. • Fernandina Island – Enjoy a walk through the mangroves on this, the youngest and westernmost island. The active La Cumbre volcano is located here. Wildlife includes: Marine Iguanas, sea lions, Flightless Cormorants, hawks, penguins, red and turquoise-blue Zayapa crabs, herons, egrets, Marine Iguanas, sea turtles, and Galápagos Hawks. • Isabella Island – The largest island in the archipelago, here you can take a panga (dingy) ride, walk, hike, snorkel, swim, and sunbathe. Land at Urbina Bay, Targus Cove and Punta Vicente Roca, and see Darwin Lake. Wildlife includes: the giant Galápagos Land Iguanas, giant tortoises, sea turtles, dolphins, whales, Blue-footed Boobies, Brown Noddies, and pelicans. • Santiago Island – Land at James Bay, a rocky coast with collapsed lava tunnels populated with shore birds and reptiles. Charles Darwin spent most of his Galápagos land time near this spot. Walk, hike, and snorkel. Wildlife includes: Oystercatchers, whimbrels, sanderlings, turnstones, tattlers, Marine Iguanas, Galápagos fur sea lion, sea turtles, parrot fishes, damsel fishes, and white tipped reef sharks. • Santa Cruz Island – The second largest island, Santa Cruz is the economic center of the Galápagos and home to the Charles Darwin Research Station. Walk and hike in the Santa Cruz Highlands, visit the Giant Tortoise Breeding and Rearing Program where old Lonesome George lived, and explore the colorful town. (6B,6L,6D)

M/Y Grace

DAYS 10 & 11

On Day 10, disembark the M/Y Grace on San Cristobal Island and visit the comprehensive Galápagos National Park Visitor Center before you are transferred to the airport for your flight to Quito to enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Following breakfast on Day 11, you are transferred to the airport for your flight home or on to your next destination. (2B)

Casa Gagnotena, Quito

Package price is per person, based on double occupancy. Single supplement applies. Intra-tour air pricing is subject to change. International airfare is additional. Other restrictions may apply. Contact us for complete journey details.

Casa Gagnotena
Quito, Ecuador

Casa Gangotena occupies a pivotal place in Quito’s historic heart, at the corner of Plaza San Francisco. Its history stretches back to the time of the Incas when, according to the early Spanish chroniclers, in the 15th century the square featured Inca temples, one of them on the site of the present house. Situated in a newly-restored historic mansion overlooking Plaza San Francisco, the three-story Casa Gangotena features 31 rooms, a showcase of eye-catching style, contemporary design, antiques, fine furnishings, modern technologies and quintessential comforts. Beautifully and eclectically-appointed, the hotel invites its guests to explore and to relax, whether in the dining room, glassed-in patio, garden redolent with the perfume of native flowers, wood-paneled library, or atop its panoramic third-floor terrace.

M/Y Grace
Galápagos Island

This 16-passenger Camper & Nicholsons yacht has traversed the waters of the globe under many names. She has been rechristened with a name which intimates her very best era – named after her late owner, Her Serene Highness Princess Grace of Monaco, the name Grace is a representation of her elegance, beauty and prestige. Grace is the ideal yacht for the traveler who seeks a true explorer experience complemented by excellent service, superb accommodations and fine dining. All nine cabins feature private bathrooms, hot showers and air-conditioning, and quarters are cleaned twice daily during landings. The galley and dining staff create quality meals using both local and international cuisine, and all meals can be served inside or al fresco. The yacht is well-stocked with a library containing a wealth of information on the natural history of the Galápagos plus an entertainment center complete with DVDs and videos. The main salon is truly spacious, equipped with luxurious sofas and chairs, and a bar and entertainment center. Passengers gather here for briefings, to watch films, enjoy a drink at the bar or simply relax. Plenty of area to lounge in the sun or shade is available, and the bar is always open for refreshments. The front sun deck offers a hot tub and plenty of space to sunbathe, read a book, take pictures, or just enjoy the journey to the next island. Sea kayaks are available for some additional fun, as is snorkeling gear.

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