What Makes "Ecuador and the Galapagos" Epic! Boli, our Naturalist Guide! His expertise on the flora and fauna in Galapagos combined with his fun loving, easy going personality, is bound to make an already special experience, Epic! Our flexibility! Yes we have a daily schedule that we have to loosely follow, but if something out of the ordinary is happening, you better believe we’ll be right there in the action! Staying in town! Get to know the people of Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands and their culture with this unique opportunity to live in three completely different population centers during our stay. The Price! Hands down, can not be beaten!

Itinerary

Itinerary at a Glance
Day 1: Fly to Quito, Ecuador
Day 2: Highlands - Middle of the Earth – Otavalo Market – Peguche Water Fall
Day 3: Fly to Galapagos - Authentic Highlands Lunch
Day 4: Cruise to Bartolome - Pinnacle Rock - Hike & Snorkel
Day 5: Highlands of Santa Cruz - Tortoises - Lava Tunnel - Sink holes
Day 6: Cruise to North Seymour Islands & Bachas Beach, Hike & Snorkel
Day 7: Darwin Station and Tortuga Bay Beach - kayaking and picnic beach lunch
Day 8: Back to Ecuador, Guayaquil City Tour & Farewell Dinner
Day 9: Back to USA

DAY 1: FLIGHT TO QUITO, ECUADOR Surrounded by snow-capped volcanoes but only 14 miles from the Equator, Quito is a beautiful city with a spring-like climate all year round. Although an important city in Inca and pre-Inca times, its original buildings have been erased and today it’s divided between the colonial architecture and sculpture of its Spanish conquest days and the clean lines of its modern section. This combination of superb well-preserved colonial churches, convents and sleek contemporary architecture makes Quito one of the most beautiful cities in all of Latin America. Quito is the capital of Ecuador and it has a population of about 2 million people. After we pick up our luggage, we’ll go to our hotel “Sebastian,” which is located in the northern part of Quito. Enjoy a restful night for our Ecuadorian Highlands adventure begins in the morning!

*NOTE: Quito is at an altitude of 9,300 ft. If your physician does not recommend that you travel to a destination at this altitude, an alternate Galapagos routing can be arranged via Guayaquil, which is at sea level.

DAY 2: HIGHLANDS OF QUITO This morning after breakfast, we’ll take our private bus to the city of Otavalo, where we’ll see the world-famous Otavalo Indian Market. Here we’ll see the colorful clothes, ponchos, blankets, and handicrafts made by these well known artisans. This is a good place to shop for souvenirs and also a fun place for bargaining! Today we’ll walk to see the great Peguche Waterfall, and afterwards, enjoy a true, Indian-style lunch at La Casa del Sol, which is owned and operated by Otavalo indigenous people. About 10 miles north of Otavalo is the village of Cotacachi, Ecuador’s leatherwork center where you’ll find an excellent choice of jackets, skirts and boots, as well as briefcases, bags and wallets. Late afternoon we’ll go back to our hotel for a nice relaxing siesta and then enjoy a fabulous dinner.

DAY 3: FLY TO THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS After an early breakfast, we’ll take our bus to the airport in Quito for our flight to the Galapagos Islands’ airport on Baltra, arriving around noon. After going through Galapagos arrival procedures, we cross the channel from Baltra to the northern side of Santa Cruz Island, where our private bus is waiting to take us for lunch at a wonderful farm and restaurant called “Narwhal,” home of the best grilled chicken in the islands! After lunch we will continue to the city of Puerto Ayora, the location of the Darwin Station and where our hotel, Pelican Bay is located.

Santa Cruz Island is a large, high island in the center of the archipelago on which volcanic activity has long since ceased, although there are still some interesting ecological remnants. The wetter southeast side faces the prevailing trade winds and holds the archipelago’s largest human population of about 20,000 people. Breakfast, Lunch on the airplane, and Dinner are included.

DAY 4: BARTOLOME Early this morning, after breakfast, we’ll depart by boat for Bartolome Island, the most photographed island in all of the Galapagos! We’ll hike up the 372 stairs to the summit of this extinct volcano for breathtaking views of legendary Pinnacle Rock and the neighboring island of Santiago. Galapagos penguins, sea lions and pelicans are plentiful here! Get ready for your first snorkel in waters full of marine life. In addition to dozens of varieties of colorful tropical fish, watch for stingrays, spotted eagle rays, and white tipped sharks! We’ll cap off the afternoon with an unforgettable boat lunch. Tonight we'll walk into town for dinner with the locals. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner are included today. ***Certified SCUBA Divers have the option to dive instead of today’s planned activities at an additional expense.***

DAY 5: HIGHLANDS OF SANTA CRUZ Today we are going to explore the highlands of Santa Cruz. We travel by bus through private farmland to a place where a population of about 2,000 giant tortoises can be found in their natural habitat. We’ll also see one of the Galapagos’ natural wonders, a lava tube and we’ll walk underground for about 30 min to truly experience this geological formation. Just down the road we'll explore a large sink hole and have a chance to see multiple species of Darwin Finches. Our busy morning will end with a delicious lunch in the highlands at one of the nicest farms on the island. This is also a place we can play soccer, volleyball and enjoy the swimming pool. After lunch we will stop at a farm run by Adriano Cabrera, who is a local Galapagos farmer. Mr. Cabrera will show us his family farm and share his vast knowledge as a long time farmer. We’ll see a small coffee, banana and sugarcane plantation and many other interesting plants in the area. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner are included today.

DAY 6: NORTH SEYMOUR ISLAND AND BACHAS BEACH Today after breakfast, we’ll board our charter boat to North Seymour Island. On this small, flat, uplifted island you’ll be introduced to magnificent frigate birds, blue footed boobies, gulls, land iguanas and playful sea lions. After spending a couple of hours exploring the island we’ll head back to the boat and change to go snorkeling. We’ll snorkel in a large channel between North Seymour and Baltra, an area where Galapagos and Hammer Head sharks are often spotted. After a mouth watering, Galapagos boat lunch we’ll go to Bachas Beach, located on the northern part of Santa Cruz. This is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, teeming with wildlife and crystal clear water. Here we’ll see a flamingo lagoon, sally light foot crabs, marine iguanas, pelicans and boobies flying by. Tonight you’ll have free time for dinner on your own in Puerto Ayora. Breakfast and Lunch are included today. ***Certified SCUBA Divers have the option to dive instead of today’s planned activities at an additional expense.***

DAY 7: DARWIN STATION AND TORTUGA BAY This morning we will visit the famous Charles Darwin Research Station to learn about the conservation programs carried out by the National Park with the scientific support of this investigation center. We will also see and learn about the tortoise captive breeding program and of course we will visit our famous friend “Lonesome George” and his two unhappy females. .

Our next site is considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, "Tortuga Bay!" You’ll have the option to arrive here via boat, or by hiking! Swim, kayak, sunbath or relaxing – the choice is yours! Much Galapagos wildlife can be found here, such as pelicans, frigatebirds, ghost-crabs and marine iguanas. This afternoon, a delectable picnic lunch will be arranged for you. Sip on some Champagne or beer while enjoying the tranquility of this amazing beach. Afterwards, we'll go back to our hotel to shower, relax, and then enjoy another wonderful dinner in town. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner are included today.

DAY 8: BALTRA ISLAND – GUAYAQUIL Early in the morning, after breakfast, we’ll jet to the beautiful city of Guayaquil. After we pick up our luggage and check into the Hotel La Fontana, we’ll have a chance to see a little bit of downtown Guayaquil. We’ll visit the famous “Crystal Palace,” go shopping at a small, local market and have the chance to purchase the wonderful handcrafts made of vegetable ivory called “Tagua.” We’ll also go to Santa Ana Hill and “Las Penias,” one of the most traditional neighborhoods in Guayaquil. Sunset from the Santa Ana Hill is absolutely breathtaking. Then we’ll walk along the beautiful waterfront and finish the day with our farewell dinner. Breakfast, Lunch on the airplane, and Dinner are included today.

DAY 9: BACK HOME This morning, after breakfast, we’ll go to the Jose Joaquin de Olmedo international airport, say goodbye to our newly found friends, and board our plane back home.

• Book Trip or call 800-742-9740

Logistics

This is a multi-sport trip taking place in the Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. You’ll be hiking, snorkeling, kayaking, and if you choose, scuba diving, your way through the Islands! More specifically, we’ll visit Santa Cruz, North Seymour, and Bartolome. Below is important information that you should know about this adventure before we depart.

Adventure Price: $2899 Plus $100 National Park Entrance Fee
Adventure Dates:Have a group of 10 or more? Pick a date and we'll build this trip CUSTOM for you!
Adventure Length: 9 days/8 nights

Getting Here: Just about the only thing that is not included in this outstanding price is international airfare (flights between the US and Ecuador). However, Epic Adventures has secured a block of seats on American Airlines from Boston, New York City, and Miami at very competitive fares and flight schedules. If you are traveling from one of these cities, we strongly encourage you to use this flight schedule. If you are not traveling from one of these gateways, an adventure consultant will be happy to help you find the best flight schedule and price. ***Note: Please speak with an adventure consultant before purchasing your flight to be sure the flight schedule works with this itinerary.

Getting Around: We’ll fly to and from the Galapagos Islands in a standard size commuter jet. A small passenger bus will be our mode of transportation on the ground to get around Santa Cruz and Isabella. A 16-18 passenger charter boat with changing rooms and bathrooms as well as dinning, lounging, and sunning areas, will be our mode of transportation to and from the islands of North Seymour and Bartolome. From the charter boat we will use a Panga (inflatable skiff) to get to and from the islands and also for snorkeling excursions.

Meals: Almost all of your meals are included on this Adventure as shown in the itinerary. Part of what makes Epic Adventures stand apart from the rest is the mouthwatering, authentic cuisine you’ll enjoy throughout your trip. There will be multiple “highlight” meals along the way including a lunch at a local family's home, two exquisite boat lunches, and of course our farewell feast. Vegetarian? No problem! Just make sure to let us know well in advance.

Accommodations: Unlike many other Galapagos tours, one aspect of our trip that makes it stand out from the rest is the fact that we will be staying in the Galapagos Islands at a small hotel woven into the population center, giving you the chance to truly discover the local culture. This is an outstanding feature of traveling, that all too often, is overlooked by other tour companies offering Galapagos trips solely by boat.
Quito (Night 1 and 2): Our home for the first two nights of this adventure is the Hotel Sebastian. Known for it's friendly staff, comfortable rooms, and excellent location, the Hotel Sebastian we'll help you transition into vacation mode in no time!
Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz (Nights 3, 4, 5, 6, & 7): Here we’ll stay at the centrally located Hotel Pelican Bay, a new and comfortable establishment located in the oldest neighborhood in the island. Downtown Puerto Ayora is a happening little place with something for everyone. Dotted with great shops, art galleries, restaurants, nightlife, and most importantly, friendly people; Puerto Ayora and the Pelican Bay is sure to be one of many highlights of this adventure!
Guayaquil (Night 8): We’ll finish or adventure at the well-appointed Hotel La Fontana. This boutique hotel is located in the heart of Downtown Guayaquil only three blocks from the Malecon; the name given to the urban renewal project along the Guayas river that brought museums, gardens, fountains, restaurants, bars, and even the first IMAX theater in South America.

Your Naturalist Guide: As you may or may not know, the Galapagos Islands are 95% national park and these areas are extremely protected. You are not allowed to set foot in the park without a licensed naturalist. Lucky for you, we have the best naturalist guide in the Galapagos Islands, Bolivar Sanchez! Having grown up in the Galapagos Islands, Bolivar Sanchez developed a keen interest in wildlife and the outdoors at an early age. For the past 17 years he has worked as a certified naturalist guide in Galapagos National Park, sharing his knowledge of this unique place with visitors to his homeland. This, combined with his sense of humor and warm personality, makes Boli the perfect person to reveal the secrets of Galapagos to you.

What’s Included:
2 nights of hotel accommodation in Quito, Ecuador (double occupancy)
5 nights of hotel accommodation in the Galapagos (double occupancy)
1 night hotel accommodation in Guayaquil, Ecuador (double occupancy)
Domestic air...flights to and from the Galapagos
All ground transportation and transfers
Charter boat transportation
Migration card
All your visits with a Tour Guide on the mainland and a Naturalist Guide in the islands
Snorkeling gear and wetsuit
All tips in the Galapagos
Soft drink or water with your included meals

What’s Not:
International Airfare
Travel insurance
Medical care or any medical expenses
Galapagos Park fee of $100.00 (to be paid upon arrival in the Galapagos)
Scuba Diving
Items of personal nature
Alcohol
Fuel surcharge
Single supplement ($350)
Departure tax out of Gye $29.00

• Book Trip or call 800-742-9740

FAQ

• What will the weather be like in May?
• What will the water temperature be in May?
• How many guides will be with me on this adventure?
• Can I touch the wildlife?
• What is the currency in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands?
• What should I pack for this trip?
• What time zone are the Galapagos Islands located in?
• What’s included in the price of this trip?
• What’s not included in the price?
• I’m a vegetarian. Will I starve to death on this trip?
• What kind of beverages come with our meals?
• Is the water safe to drink?
• What is a typical day like on this Galapagos adventure?
• How Strenuous will each day be, and what type of shape do I need to be in for this Adventure?
• What kind of boats will we use to get to the different islands?
• What if I get seasick?
• What will I see?
• What type of equipment/gear should I bring?
• What about SCUBA Diving?
• Will there be cell phone or internet access in the Galapagos Islands?

What will the weather be like in May?

The weather always seems to be nice in the Galapagos. Even though it’s right on the equator, the temperatures rarely get extremely hot. You can expect daily temperatures between 70 and 80 degrees. May is considered a dry season in the Galapagos, although a light raincoat is never a bad idea for the times we will be in the highlands. Also, pack lots of sunscreen and a hat for your head or the sun WILL get you.

What will the water temperature be in May?

The average water temperature in may is about 76 degrees, but it varies quite a bit from location to location due to all the different currents that converge on the Galapagos. Don’t worry, wetsuits are provided, and the initial shock is quickly over come by complete amazement at the undersea life.

How many guides will be with me on this adventure?

There will be three guides with you to ensure this adventure is nothing short of Epic - one naturalist, and two guides from Epic Adventures.

Can I touch the wildlife?

Wildlife in the Galapagos Islands has truly evolved without fear of humans and as a result, everything you see will be extremely close up. In order to keep it this way it is a strict park rule that you do not touch any of the wildlife. But that doesn’t mean that you can’t get close. In fact Boli, our naturalist guide, is outstanding at getting you more up close and personal with the Galapagos wildlife than you could ever imagine!

What is the currency in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands?

Surprisingly enough, the Ecuadorian government works off of US dollars. US cash is accepted everywhere and most establishments except major credit cards. ATM’s are also available in some locations.

What should I pack for this trip?

Epic Adventures always includes a detailed packing list with it’s pre-trip documents however here are a couple of the most important items. Sturdy walking or hiking shoes are a must. We’ll be on our feet everyday walking trails that at times can be quite rugged. Sunscreen and a hat or some sort of head protection is also a must. We’ll be spending much of our day out in the equatorial sun and the last thing you want is to miss an action packed day due to sun poisoning or heat exhaustion.

What time zone are the Galapagos Islands located in?

Central Time! This is a jet-lag free trip!

What’s included in the price of this trip

2 nights of hotel accommodations in Quito(double occupancy)
5 nights of hotel accommodations in the Galapagos (double occupancy)
1 Night accommodation in Guayaquil(double occupancy)
Domestic air...flights to and from the Galapagos
All ground transportation and transfers
Charter boat transportation
Migration card
All your visits with a Tour Guide on the mainland and a Naturalist Guide in the islands
Snorkeling gear and wetsuit
All tips in the Galapagos
Soft drink or water with your included meals

What’s not included in the price?
International Airfare
Travel insurance
Medical care or any medical expenses
Galapagos Park fee of $100.00 (to be paid upon arrival in the Galapagos)
Scuba Diving
Items of personal nature
Alcohol
Fuel surcharge
Single supplement ($300)
Departure tax out of Guayaquil, Ecuador: $29.00

I’m a vegetarian. Will I starve to death on this trip?
Absolutely not! Just let us know well in advance and you’ll be eating like a king or queen!

What kind of beverages come with our meals?
Water is and soft drinks are included with all your meals. If you would like to purchase alcoholic beverages, they are almost always available and you are welcome to do so.

Is the water safe to drink?
An active day in the sun would not be possible without being well hydrated. Rest assured, we will be drinking safe, purified water through out the trip.

What is a typical day like on this Galapagos adventure?
To start with, there really is no typical day in the Galapagos Islands, but we’ll do our best to paint a picture. We’ll typically have breakfast around 7:00am, sometimes earlier if the day’s schedule dictates an earlier start. After that really varies depending on the days itinerary. What we can tell you is that you will be both on your feet and in the water almost every day. Our days are scheduled to a point, but one of the great things about this trip is that if something out of the ordinary is happening, rarely will our schedule keep us from fully enjoying the moment. An example of that is during one of our trips to the Galapagos, we were heading back to Santa Cruz from North Seymour. All of a sudden off in the distance we spotted a large female Orca Whale and her baby. We spent the next hour tracking the whales and actually saw the large female fully breach the water three times! Now that was Epic!

How strenuous will each day be, and what type of shape do I need to be in for this adventure?
The combination of hiking, swimming and sun on any given day can and will be tiring. You will need to be in decent physical shape to participate in all the scheduled activities on a given day. We’re not talking triathlon shape here. If you lead a reasonably active lifestyle, you should be fine.

What kind of boats will we use to get to the different islands?
Two types. For the days we travel to Bartolome and North Seymour, we’ll use a 16-18 person charter boat with a bathroom, changing rooms, and ample room for dining, lounging in the sun, and even napping while we journey to the islands. The average time spent in transit to and from these islands is about two hours.

What if I get seasick?
We do travel around by boat quite a bit on this adventure and seasickness can be miserable, there's really no denying that. If you think you have a problem with motion sickness, please alert one of Adventure Consultants before you depart. They will talk with you about preventative measures that can be taken to avoid this problem.

What will I see?
A more appropriate question might be, what won’t you see? Here is a list of wildlife that could potentially see...obviously this is not a zoo, so we can’t guarantee anything.
Sea Lions...lots of Sea lions
Land Iguanas
Marine Iguanas
Blue Footed Boobies
Frigit Birds
Giant Tortoises
Sea Turtles
Sally Light Foot Crabs
Lots and Lots of Tropical fish
Sharks (White Tip Reef Sharks, Galapagos Sharks, Hammer Head Sharks)
Galapagos Penguins
Rays (Sting Rays, Eagle Rays, Manta Rays, Golden Rays)
Finches
Albatross
And so much more

What type of equipment/gear should I bring?
All equipment that is needed for this adventure is provided in the Galapagos Islands. However, if you have your own snorkeling gear, wetsuit, regulator, etc. and would like to bring them along, by all means, be our guest.

What about SCUBA Diving?
As detailed on the itinerary, there are three opportunities for **Optional** SCUBA Diving on this adventure. Unfortunately, any SCUBA Diving you do will have to be in place of the activities scheduled on that day. There is no way around this. SCUBA Diving costs approximately $200 for a full day. This includes, transportation, all equipment, lunch, and two dives.

Will there be cell phone or internet access in the Galapagos Islands?
Yes. Each cell phone provider has different policies and coverage internationally. Please check with your cell phone provider about rates and coverage if cell phone use is important to you on this adventure. There are internet cafes on the Island of Santa Cruz.