GALAPAGOS
THE ULTIMATE GALAPAGOS EXPERIENCE
JAN 2022 • 17 DAYS • 14 GUESTS
Experience all that the Galapagos Islands has to offer on a nature lover and marine enthusiast's complete adventure. Nineteen remote islands make up the Galapagos archipelago and are among the most pristine and natural places on earth. Sprinkled almost 1000km off Ecuador's coast in the eastern Pacific Ocean, they are a UNESCO World Heritage site for both land and sea. The diverse and unique islands offer breathtaking landscapes, green highlands, volcanic peaks, powder white sandy beaches, and clear seas with magnificent underwater seascapes. Uninhabited by man for 150 years, has allowed wildlife to flourish. With a plethora of endemic birdlife and reptiles on land and an abundant sea filled with life and healthy vibrant reefs, made the Galapagos Islands the inspiration for Charles Darwin's ground-breaking 'Origin of Species' book published in 1859. Follow in Darwin's footsteps onboard our privately chartered yacht, with a specially designed 2-week itinerary to showcase why the Galapagos Islands are unlike any other place on earth.
Start your journey in Quito, the capital of Ecuador. A lively mix of history and culture, blending indigenous styles, European and Moorish architecture in a city constructed on ancient Incan foundations. Fly to the Galapagos Islands and embark on our privately chartered yacht for what promises to be the ultimate exploration on land and sea of this unique and incredible island archipelago.
Due to a lack of natural predators, the amount of life in and around the islands thrives. 80% of land birds, 97% reptiles and land mammals, 30% of plants, and over 20% of marine species are endemic to the Galapagos, found nowhere else on earth. Let our expert guides take you through the majestic volcanic islands and scenic bays inhabited by awe-inspiring wildlife. Due to the lack of human presence, the wildlife has no fear of humans, allowing for intimate interactions and sightings.
For bird lovers, 22 out of the 29 resident land birds in Galapagos are endemic. Blue-footed and Red-footed booby's, cormorants, albatross, hawks, frigates, doves, flycatchers, herons, crakes, owls, and mockingbirds, to name just a few. Add to this, free-roaming giant tortoises, iguanas, and penguins, with sea lions and fur seals frolicking on the beach. The diverse geology of the islands has created a unique environment and an abundance of life.
The Galapagos is home to the world's 2nd largest marine reserve and is hailed one of the top spots in the world to Scuba dive. After a week of island exploration, topside and snorkeling, take the plunge to see how the Galapagos earnt this reputation. The waters have given rise to a wealth of unique marine creatures where major ocean currents collide. The islands are home to the world's only marine iguana and the most northern-living penguin. Spot pelagic action close to shore and in the deeper waters. Dive amongst schooling Scalloped hammerheads, Silky sharks, Galapagos sharks, manta rays, Green sea turtles, Spotted eagle rays, barracudas, and tuna. Swim alongside fur seals, sea lions, and dolphins. Dive spectacular seascapes, through impressive arches, around volcanic rocks, plateaus, and ridges teeming with life.
Combine your adventure with the mighty Amazon rainforest, the Avenue of volcanos, and the misty Cloud forests of Ecuador
HIGHLIGHTS
Explore the best of the land & sea that the Galapagos has on offer on a 2-week exclusive yacht journey
Dive amidst schooling Hammerheads, Galapagos- and Silky sharks on world renowned dive sites
Admire the endemic giant Galapagos tortoise roaming in its natural habitat
Explore cavernous underground lava tunnels and view the geological wonders of the volcanic islands
Stroll alongside marine iguanas basking in the sun, sea lions, and fur seals frolicking on the beach
Swim alongside dolphins, mantas, sea turtles, the “Ocean sunfish” Mola-mola, and other large pelagic species
Take guided walks with local experts to spot land iguanas, penguins, nesting sea birds and endemic species like the Mockingbird, hawk and the Galapagos snake.
ENQUIRIES
Love this itinerary and wondering when we are returning? Don't hesitate to contact us today.
COMBINE for the ULTIMATE EXPERIENCE
ECUADOR – Amazon, Avenue of Volcanos & Cloud Forest
JAN 2022 ● 11 DAYS ● 14 GUESTS
On this adventure, step into a country world-renowned for its biodiversity, varied terrain, and wildlife habitats thriving with wildlife and natural beauty. Hike through the primary rainforest as you journey into the heart of the Amazon. Be in awe of the pristine nature surrounding you as you glide down the river on canoes. Observe the speed and agility of a variety of dazzling hummingbirds in the cloud forest. Head up into the Andes for breathtaking views of high-altitude volcanos and valleys dotted with traditional villages. Delve into the rich Ecuadorian history and indigenous culture for an authentic experience like no other.
ITINERARY OVERVIEW
GALAPAGOS – The Ulitmate Galapagos Experience
JAN 2022 ● 17 DAYS ● 14 GUESTS
Day 01 | Depart Home / En Route to Quito, Ecuador
Day 02 | Quito / Welcome dinner
Day 03 | Fly to Galapagos / Board M/Y Blue Spirit
Day 04-16 | Explore the Galapagos Islands above & below the water
Day 17 | Disembark / International flights home
COMBINE: ECUADOR – Amazon, Avenue of Volcanos & Cloud Forest
JAN 2022 ● 11 DAYS ● 14 GUESTS
Day 01 | Depart Home / En Route to Quito, Ecuador
Day 02 | Arrival / Quito city tour / Welcome cocktails & dinner
Day 03 | Fly to Ecuadorian Amazon
Day 04-06 | Explore the Amazon
Day 07 | Fly to Quito / Discover the Mindo Cloud Forest
Day 08 | Cloud forest / Avenue of Volcanos ~ Cotopaxi
Day 09 | Cotopaxi / Riobamba
Day 10 | Devil’s Nose Train / Quito
Day 11 | Depart Quito on your homeward journey or fly to Galapagos
M/V BLUE SPIRIT
The M/V Blue Spirit yacht offers premium service, naturalist-guided exploration, world-class diving, and high comfort levels.
M/V Blue Spirit has ten cozy cabins, each with air-conditioning, private en-suite bathroom, and storage space. Four cabins are located on the upper deck with sea views, and six on the lower deck. The beautiful lounge and restaurant make the perfect setting to enjoy delicious, freshly prepared cuisine, informative sessions, and photo presentations. The sundeck with loungers is ideal for relaxing in between dives or star-gazing in the evening.
The Blue Spirit yacht has a wide diving platform for the comfort of use and is equipped for all planned activities. After your dives, return to hot towels in the spacious, warm enclosed dive deck. It has Al-Fresco hot showers, areas to clean your equipment, tables to clean your underwater cameras, a recharging station, and individual gear bins.
The experienced and professional crew of the Blue Spirit yacht are ready and waiting to welcome you aboard, for a trip of a lifetime.
WILD EARTH LEADERS
PHOTO CREDIT © Thomas & Natalia, MV Blue Spirit, Adobe Stock