Postcard: Ecuador & Galapagos 2022
ECUADOR
In the heart of the Ecuadorian Amazon, we watched the jungle come alive at sunrise from the treetop canopy; we enjoyed tranquil canoe rides and were rewarded with great sightings of caimans, monkeys, river otters, snakes, tarantulas’, parrots, toucans and manakins to name a few. We trekked up snow-covered volcanos to witness spectacular views and to see herds of vicunas and giant Condors flying overhead. In the misty cloud forest, we were dazzled by countless species of colourful hummingbirds, and the mating dance of the Cock of the Rock. In the Andes we delved into the rich Ecuadorian culture, were serenaded by traditional music, savoured delicious local cuisine, explored valleys on horseback, and relaxed with cocktails in hand in thermal hot spring pools, all while staying at gorgeous Haciendas.
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
The Galapagos Islands is one of the most pristine and natural places on earth, where wildlife has no fear of humans, allowing close interactions. Our Wild Earth Explorers spent 15 days on private yachts following Charles Darwin’s footsteps. The islands’ breathtaking landscapes and diverse geology have created a unique environment and an abundance of life. We experienced lush, green highlands where ancient giant Tortoises roam freely, volcanic peaks and desert islands covered with nesting frigate birds, dancing blue-footed boobies, baby albatross, lava lizards, and land iguanas. Scenic bays and cliffs filled with nesting sea birds. We were blessed with close penguin encounters and watched nesting green turtles return to the sea at sunrise. Our Wild Earth Explorers loved long walks along powder white sandy beaches with sunbaking marine iguanas, bright red sally lightfoot crabs, and frolicking sea lions.
The seas surrounding these majestic volcanic islands are rich and there is an abundance of marine life. To look out into the blue and be close to hundreds of schooling Hammerhead sharks was simply mesmerizing and exhilarating. To dive through schools of barracuda, fast-moving swirl of tuna and jacks was a thrill. Swimming alongside graceful green turtles, gliding above huge rays, seeing large Galapagos sharks and toothy moray eels peeking out of crevices was wonderful. At night curious silky sharks surrounded our boat in search of food. The seascapes with impressive steep walls, volcanic rocks and plateaus were teeming with fish life. Being in the water with playful sea lions was a big highlight. Due to a Tsunami warning, we were ordered to take the ship out to sea, where we were greeted by a huge pod of 300+ bottlenose dolphins. We spent the afternoon on zodiacs letting the dolphins ride the bow wave, with incredible aerial jumps and displays to which our Explorers were delighted.
If this expedition interests you, Contact Us. We are here to assist you in shaping your next extraordinary travel experience.