Saturday, December 28 – Quito – Tour Begins
Your journey begins on the Equator in the lush Andean foothills. At 9,350 feet, Quito is the second-highest capital city in the world, and its main draw is the exquisite Old Town, which was founded on an ancient Inca settlement. Because of the magnificent blend of Spanish, Flemish, Moorish and pre-Columbian architecture, its churches, monasteries, narrow streets, rock and adobe buildings and Spanish patios, it has been declared by UNESCO “Patrimony of Mankind”. With most flights arriving late, there are no activities planned today. Settling into our hotel this evening, prepare for our amazing tour through Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands.
Sunday, December 29 – Quito
This morning we begin our journey with our Amazing Journeys Welcome & Orientation at our hotel. Breathe in the colonial history of Ecuador as we visit the old part of the city on a walking tour. Have a closer look at the heart of the city of Quito’s Old Town, one of the largest and best-preserved colonial-era quarters in South America. Wander through cobblestone streets as you admire the architecture and sample delicious chocolate made from the finest Ecuadorian cacao along the way.
Next, we’ll head to the iconic ‘Middle of the World City’, located around 16 miles north of Quito. After lunch, visit the famous monument that delineates the imaginary line that is the Equator. Have your camera ready to capture the moment you stand with one foot in each hemisphere.
This evening, join together at a local restaurant for a group dinner.
Monday, December 30 – Quito – Galapagos Islands
Early this morning we’ll be transferred to the airport in Quito for our 2.5 hour flight to the Galapagos Islands. We’ll fly to Baltra Airport and transfer to the pier by our naturalist guides for embarkation on our home-away-from-home for the next four nights, expedition ship MS Santa Cruz II. While on our journey, we will embark on walks around the islands, and have opportunities to snorkel, kayak and explore the area on a panga (zodiac boat).
We’ll begin our exploration of the Galápagos Islands in the afternoon by following the north shore of Santa Cruz to the fascinating landscapes of Cerro Dragón, or Dragon Hill, where we’ll land. On the first part of our walk, we’ll pass a brackish lagoon that is frequented by shorebirds and American flamingos. Further inland, the trail offers a beautiful view of the bay and the western islands of the archipelago, as well as your first chance to encounter some land iguanas.
Tuesday, December 31 – Galapagos Islands
Today, explore Santiago Island’s pristine beaches and picturesque landscapes. Take in the impressive cliffs of Buccaneer Cove on the northwest coast, home to a large number of marine birds and sea lions. Immerse yourself in the scenery through a range of water activities and marvel at fantastic rock formations such as ‘Elephant Rock’ and ‘The Bishop’.
In the afternoon, we’ll head to Puerto Egas, one of the best visitor sites on the island. We’ll have the opportunity to see a colony of Galápagos fur seals and exotic birdlife on an excursion. Or, swim or snorkel along the rocky shorelines, typically in the company of marine turtles.
This evening, we will celebrate New Year’s Eve with celebrations onboard our ship. Bet you’ve never counted down to the new year in a place this remote!
Wednesday, January 1 – Galapagos Islands
Our day starts on tiny Rábida Island, located off the southern shore of Santiago Island. Take a thrilling panga ride along the coast to explore the island’s mesmerizing, red-colored beach. Soak up the sights and sounds of a sea lion colony and keep an eye out for marine iguanas, mockingbirds, yellow warblers, and several species of Darwin’s finches.
In the afternoon, we’ll sail to the golden sands of Bartolomé Island, dominated by the imposing Pinnacle Rock. Swim or snorkel at the beach here or discover colorful marine life riding in our glass-bottom boat. You may even spot some Galápagos penguins on the shore. Hike up to the summit of the island for fantastic views.
Thursday, January 2 – Galapagos Islands
Today, explore Genovesa Island. The morning starts with a steep but short climb (only 90 feet) up Prince Philip’s Steps – otherwise known as El Barranco – to reach a flat and rocky plateau. Once there, you can walk along comfortably and look out for large colonies of Nazca boobies, red-footed boobies, great frigatebirds, and storm petrels. Afterward, or instead, hop into a kayak for an aquatic adventure.
In the afternoon, we’ll land at the beautiful beach that borders Darwin Bay for a swim. After this refreshing dip, take a stroll and observe hundreds of island birds. You can also swim, snorkel, kayak or just relax on the beach.
This evening, celebrate the end of a memorable trip to the Galapagos with our own special Amazing Journeys Farewell program where we’ll wrap up our tour together in a fun and memorable way, followed by dinner.
Friday, January 3 – Galapagos – Tour Ends
We’ll start our last morning on the north shore of Santa Cruz Island. After a dry landing at a passenger wharf and a bus ride to the island’s higher region, you’ll see a final highlight of your expedition cruise: giant tortoises in the wild.
The windward slopes of the island are set aside as a reserve that is home to two species of giant tortoise. These lush highlands also feature dense forests of Galápagos daisies, orchids, and bromeliads.
After this visit, we’ll take a transfer directly to the airport in Baltra for our flight to Quito, where you’ll connect to your international flight. You’ll fly home with memories of our beautiful tour of Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands!
Your Itinerary at a Glance
Night 1-2 Quito, Ecuador
Night 3-6 MS Santa Cruz II
Please Note:
- Alternate hotels or ship may be used
- The order of the tour may be changed
- Some activities are weather dependent
- The highest elevation of this itinerary is 9,350 feet
- Wildlife sightings cannot be promised
- This trip is for you if you’re an adventurous traveler – you don’t want to miss a thing, walking and standing for 2-3 hours isn’t a big deal and you’re able to walk at a moderate pace, covering several miles, hills and uneven surfaces. Walking four miles throughout the day is very doable and you can easily climb stairs. All passengers should feel comfortable with the following activities unassisted: get on and off the yacht or ship from a small dinghy, swim among wildlife, rocks and in open sea, dive in the ocean, climb up and down during hikes, walk over uneven terrain, travel by maritime transportation, car and bus, and engage in adventure activities. You can handle changes in elevation as high as 9,350 feet. You can expect several early mornings and some longer days balanced with free time to recharge. This trip is not a fit for those who require assistance with walking or who travel on mobility devices.
Items listed on this website are subject to change at any time. By providing payment you agree to the terms and conditions as outlined on this website. All rooms are non-smoking.
Cancellation Policy: From the time of deposit until February 29, 2024, there is a $250 penalty for cancellation. From March 1 – April 2, 2024, there is a $850 penalty for cancellation. From April 3 – June 19, 2024, the cancellation penalty is $1950, the amount of your deposit for the tour and pre/post nights. From June 20 – September 23, 2024 the cancellation penalty is 50% of the cost of the tour for the tour and pre/post nights. From September 24 – October 23, 2024 the cancellation penalty is 75% of the cost of the tour for the tour and pre/post nights. From October 24, 2024 until the day of travel, the cancellation penalty is 100% of the cost of the tour and pre/post nights. Cancellations made on the day of departure and “no-shows” will receive no refund. There is no refund in the event of interruption or cancellation by the passenger after the start of the journey. Your decision not to participate on the tour due to State Department advisories, fear of travel, illness or any other reason will be deemed a cancellation.
Travel Protection: It is obligatory for all passengers to obtain necessary insurance before arriving in Ecuador. Information will be sent with tour confirmation.
This trip is for you if: You’re an adventurous traveler – you don’t want to miss a thing, walking and standing for 2-3 hours isn’t a big deal and you’re able to walk at a moderate pace, covering several miles, hills and uneven surfaces. Walking four miles throughout the day is very doable and you can easily climb stairs. All passengers should feel comfortable with the following activities unassisted: get on and off the ship from a small dinghy, swim among wildlife, rocks and in open sea, climb up and down rocky terrain during hikes, travel by maritime transportation, car and bus, and engage in adventure activities. You can handle changes and staying at an elevation of 9,350 feet. You can expect several early mornings and some longer days balanced with free time to recharge. This trip is not a fit for those who require assistance with walking or who travel on mobility devices.
Passport & Visa Requirements: A passport is necessary to travel on this itinerary. It must be valid for six months beyond the last day of the trip. A visa is not required for citizens of the US, Canada, Australia, UK or EU countries. Please note that visa requirements can change at any time and it is up to the traveler to be aware of visa requirements.
Twin Accommodations: Twin accommodations are available if you and a friend are traveling together. When signing up for twin occupancy, should one of the roommates cancel, the remaining traveling roommate will assume the cost of a single supplement. Standard cancellation terms apply to any cancellation.
Flights & Transfers: For your flights, it is important that you not purchase airfare until you receive a confirmation letter from Amazing Journeys which will contain specific flight parameters. This tour begins and ends in Quito (UIO). Transfers between the airports and hotels are included for flights arriving on December 28 and departing on January 3 only.
Taxes & Gratuities: Taxes, surcharges, and government fees are subject to change. Gratuities have been included on this tour and include tips for the tour manager, local guides, drivers, naturalists, luggage porters and included meals. Gratuities are not included for housekeeping staff in the hotel and tipping is at your discretion.
Baggage: Regardless of what your international air carrier permits, each traveler will be limited to one checked suitcase (maximum 50 pounds) for flights to the Galapagos Islands. Your carry-on bag (max 15 pounds) must fit up on the bus and cannot go under the bus. We recommend a backpack, tote bag or purse. This is subject to change and more details will be sent as we get closer to the departure date.
Vaccines & Precautions: At this time there are no specific vaccinations required for international travelers. We recommend you visit a travel clinic or see your health professional to be sure you are up to date on vaccinations needed for international travel. Requirements can change at any time. You can get more information at the following web sites: Center for Disease Control or Travelers Vaccines. It is recommended you bring along an official government issued Covid-19 proof of vaccination card as countries and venues along the way may still require it and there is a possibility you may be denied entry without.
Fuel Surcharge: Should oil costs go above $65 a barrel and our tour operators adjust the rate of the cruise or tour cost accordingly, we reserve the right to adjust the cost of the cruise/tour.
Exchange Rate: In the case of currency fluctuations of great than 3%, we reserve the right to adjust our pricing according in order that we may be able to operate the cruise and tours effectively.
This tour is operated by Hurtigruten
We must have a minimum of 15 participants in order to operate this tour.
