Six hundred miles off the coast of Ecuador, surrounded by open ocean, a volcanic archipelago straddles the equator. The Galapagos Islands, forged of black lava and named for the giant tortoises that are among its most noted inhabitants, are like nowhere else in the world. Home to a profuse array of wildlife, the islands offer an immersion in nature that feels primeval, where lizards and penguins and bluefooted boobies share the beaches with us, unconcerned by our presence. Herman Melville called the Galapagos Las Encantadas, or Enchanted Isles, an apt moniker for a realm that remains otherworldly, even today.

Highlights

Ecuador: Classic Galapagos Islands

  • Cruise among the islands’ prolific wildlife aboard an intimate, well-appointed yacht.
  • Swim with sea lions, sunbathe with iguanas, and kayak among whales and dolphins.
  • Learn about scientists’ conservation work at the Charles Darwin Research Station.

Unique Aspects

This amazing tour is guided by some of the very best expedition leaders in the field. In addition to having years of experience in leading small groups around the world, many of the leaders hold one or more Master’s degrees or Ph.D.’s. This is a small and personal tour, as nature expeditions are best experienced with smaller groups of travelers.

Accommodations

The majority of your time will be spent on a new charter yacht designed exclusively for Galapagos excursions. The eighty-three-feet long motor-yacht offers spacious accommodations for small groups with a variety of room options. During the voyage, you’ll have the option to experience a wondrous one-night excursion from the sea to the highlands of Santa Cruz where you’ll stay in an exclusive tree house and tented camp. The individual tree houses and semi-permanent walk-in tents are reminiscent of an African safari camp – but amidst the homes of giant tortoises. In Quito, you’ll stay at the Hilton Colon. Built as a luxury hotel in the financial district, it conveniently stands near an array of historical sites, areas of interest and the airport.

Duration

10 Days

Sustainable Elements

  • Galapagos Islands conservation project.
  • Local guides to compliment expedition leaders.
  • The world’s first carbon neutral travel company.
  • Local goods and services are provided.
  • Carbon offsets.
  • Local agents donate funds for the support of educational classrooms, teacher training, and medical clinics.

Cost

For personal pricing to meet your budget needs, please e-mail Wiser World Travel, or call 303-443-0604, USA toll free 1-877-743-0604.

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