THE INSPIR ATO PORTFOLIO
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GALAPAGOS VOYAGE
Adventure
We’re excited to provide an extraordinary encounter with some of the most unique wildlife, flora and fauna in the world on the incomparable Galapagos Islands. You’ll explore from the deck of an intimate expedition ship with a maximum of 48 guests. The most experienced naturalist guides will share expert commentary on day tours and engaging conversation on board the ship. Most of your time will be spent within the protected areas of the Galapagos National Park and the Galapagos Marine Reserve, where you might see penguins, sea lions, albatross, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, flamingos and much more—all from an incredibly close vantage point. Your comfortable stateroom includes a well-appointed bathroom and is serviced three times a day. HIGHLIGHTS The natural world You’ll see amazing creatures by land and sea, while kayaking, snorkeling, and walking on remote islands. These include surfacing dolphins and whales, flightless cormorants and giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, brown pelicans and fur seals, and many more.
Itinerary - 10 days DAY
1
You’ll typically fly from North America overnight and arrive in Ecuador the following morning, where we’re happy to arrange ground transportation and a comfortable hotel in the heart of historic Quito for your night’s stay. The itinerary below is a sample for illustration purposes only. Your actual itinerary may vary based on time of year, wildlife, other ships, and national park regulations.
DAY
2
After an arranged morning flight from Quito to Baltra in the Galapagos, your journey begins aboard the ship, which will offer two off-shore site visits per day and ample opportunities to hike, swim, snorkel, kayak, bird-watch and take great closeup photographs. Today is your first chance to see wildlife; on the white sands of Las Bachas Beach, you might see flamingos and other coastal birds.
DAY
3
Along the black sands of Santiago Island, sea urchins, octopus and starfish swim in tidal pools. You’ll follow a trail to the uncommon Fur Seals Grottos, and then have time to swim and snorkel. Later in the day, you’ll head to Bartolomé Island. Penguins gather near the snorkeling area around Pinnacle Rock, and after a change of clothes, you can hike to the top of the island for exceptional views or enjoy a panga ride.
DAY
4
Prepare to see land iguanas on Santa Cruz’s Cerro Dragon (Dragon Hill). Pintail ducks and pink flamingos may greet you as well. On the following stop, sea lions and pelicans gather on the beautiful red sand beach of Rábida, which is also one of the tour’s top snorkeling sites. Kayak and panga rides are available, too.
EXPLORE
AN EYE–OPE NIN JOUR NEY G
The expertise Your guides will lead groups of no more than 12 on each island, so you’ll have personal access to their knowledge. This expedition ship only enlists guides who are Class II or Class III naturalists. The ease From fully vetting the cruise provider to helping arrange your pre- and post-trip accommodations and internal flights, we’ve made it easy for you to experience this remote and unique part of the world.
INSPIR ATO M AGA ZINE S SUMMER 2012
G A L A PAG O S I S L A N D S
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