GALÁPAGOS ESCAPE
Departing 2nd May 2026 | An 8-day expedition | Exclusive Escorted Departure
TROPICAL ANDES & COLONIAL QUITO PRE-VOYAGE EXTENSION
Featuring Mashpi Lodge, set within a 6,000-acre rainforest reserve
Before your Galápagos adventure, discover the lesser-known wonders of mainland Ecuador on this six-day adventure in the Andes. Explore Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage site, from the comfort of historic Casa Gangotena on Plaza San Francisco. See dazzling colonial churches and bustling traditional local markets. Then immerse yourself in the heart of the Ecuadorian Chocó, one of the world’s top five biodiversity hotspots, at Mashpi Lodge. Mashpi is a strikingly contemporary base on a 2,600-acre biodiversity reserve on the Pacific slope of the Andes, with resident biologists, naturalist guides, a life centre, and remarkable access to the wild rainforest. It offers extensive hiking trails, a stunning open-air tram, observation towers, and even an ingenious aerial bicycle, all designed to get you out into nature. At 3,000-feet in the Equatorial tropical forest, Mashpi is less than three hours from our arrival point, Quito, with a moderate, semi-tropical climate.
OVERVIEW:
• April 27th and 28th – Casa Gangotena, Quito, 2 nights
• April 29th and 30th – Masphi Lodge, 2 nights
• May 1st – Casa Gangotena , Quito, (End of the extension) 1 night
• May 2nd – Join Ponders Escorted Group in The Wyndham - Quito, an ‘airport hotel’ for your early morning flight the next day
• 3rd May – Fly to Galápagos with Ponders Escorted Group
Day 1 - Home/Quito, Ecuador
Fly to Quito, where we are met by our guide, and transfer to Casa Gangotena on Plaza San Francisco. Most flights arrive in the evening. Meal not included on this night.
Day 2 - Quito
Tour the dazzling churches and monuments of the old town—the largest and best preserved colonial centre in the Americas—and visit a revitalised traditional market with a local non-profit this morning on a walking tour. Take the afternoon at leisure to relax and explore. You have the option to join an exclusive neighborhood visit for hotel guests. Gather for a welcome dinner at Restaurant Cedrón at Casa Gangotena, presenting Ecuadorian cuisine with modern flair. (B,D)
Day 3 - The Andes/Mashpi Lodge
After breakfast, journey 70 miles north across the Equator through dramatic Andean valleys to Mashpi Lodge, set in tropical forest at 3,000 feet. After checkin and lunch, join resident naturalists on a nature walk. Search for the endemic Mashpi torrent frog and other nocturnal creatures after dinner tonight. (B,L,D)
Day 4 - Mashpi Lodge
We have the day to explore, where options and excursions arranged for us include a ride across the canopy in the aerial tram or innovative sky-bike, naturalist-led walks to waterfalls on well-constructed trails, a visit to the hummingbird feeders, and butterfly farm and the life centre. Birds like endemic mountain tanagers, trogons, motmots, and hummingbirds flock around the lodge verandas, and the surrounding forest is spectacular. Keep an eye open for the Chocó toucan, one of dozens of spectacular bird species endemic to this bio-region. The bird list tops 400 species. (B, L, D)
Day 5 - Mashpi Lodge/Quito
Return this morning with the guide to Casa Gangotena with a lunch stop en route. Join a neighbourhood activity exclusive for hotel guests back in the historic centre of Quito. Dinner and the rest of the evening is at leisure to prepare for our upcoming adventures in Galápagos. (B,L)
Day 6 - 7 Quito/Galápagos
Check out of Casa Gentona after breakfast and transfer to the Wyndham Hotel at Quito airport, where you will meet the rest of the Ponders escorted group arriving this afternoon. Stay overnight with the group ready for your early morning flight the following day.
£5,149
Cost Includes:
Accommodations, Meals (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner included) are provided as detailed in the itinerary, porterage, soft drinks and bottled water, private guide and transfers in Quito, transport to the lodge, tours, lectures and hikes with naturalist guides at Mashpi, waterproof ponchos and rubber boots, water bottle, gratuity to guides and naturalists.
GALÁPAGOS ESCAPE
Exclusive Escorted Departure
Few destinations are more iconic than the Galápagos, where Lindblad Expeditions brought the very first international group of citizen explorers more than 55 years ago. Sail among the varied landscapes of this magical archipelago to encounter giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, playful penguins, and charismatic sea lions, all unfazed by your presence. With multiple ways to explore on land and at sea, including hikes, photo walks, kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, and snorkelling, every day reveals new discoveries interpreted by a team of expert local guides. Complement your adventure with a voyage aboard a state-of-the-art expedition vessel, that feels like your own private yacht. Observe marine iguanas basking on lava rocks, watch magnificent Frigatebirds inflate their crimson throat pouches, and swim alongside sea turtles in crystal-clear waters. Evenings bring opportunities for stargazing, insightful talks by local and veteran naturalists, and time to relax after thrilling days of discovery. With an intimate connection to the islands and unparalleled access to extraordinary wildlife, this Galápagos journey promises an experience unlike any other.
OVERVIEW:
• 2nd May – Fly from London Heathrow - Quito
• 1 night pre voyage in Quito (guests on the pre voyage extension will meet the group here)
• 3rd May – Fly from Quito – Galápagos
• 3 – 8th May – 5-night Expedition on Islander II
• 8th May - Fly from Galápagos to Quito
• 1 night post voyage in Quito
• 9th May – Fly from Quito to London Heathrow (arrive UK 10th May)
Day 1 - Quito, Ecuador
Arrive in Quito, Ecuador’s capital city in the Andes, and take an included transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay. Galápagos flights start and end in Quito with a stop in Guayaquil. In Quito guests have the choice of several hotels, including a convenient airport hotel. You may opt to reserve additional hotel nights and tours in Quito.
Arrival Time: Anytime
Arrival City: Quito, Ecuador
Day
2 - Quito / Galápagos / Embark Ship
Fly to Baltra in the centre of Galápagos, a little world unto itself in the Tropical Pacific, where you’ll be welcomed by your naturalist staff as you begin exploring the islands. (B,L,D)
Day 3 - 6 - Galápagos
Listed below is a sample of islands you may visit during your expedition. Expeditions begin and end at Baltra and include visits to Isla Santa Cruz and a careful selection of diverse islands. No two days are alike. Each itinerary offers an optimal balance of wildlife, landscapes and experiences. All ship itineraries are subject to Galápagos National Park regulations. (B,L,D)
North Seymour: Look for nesting frigatebirds, plus land and marine iguanas, and enjoy a beautiful coastal walk.
Santa Cruz: Head to the lush, green highlands to look for giant tortoises roaming in the wild.
Isabela: Toast crossing the Equator at Volcán Ecuador, northernmost of Isabela’s six great shield volcanoes. Keep an eye open for whales and dolphins as you explore these nutrient-rich waters, once the haunt of whalers and pirates.
Fernandina: One of the most active oceanic volcanoes in the world, Fernandina is the youngest and most pristine island in Galápagos—and home to the strange flightless cormorant and the largest marine iguanas.
San Cristóbal: Search for red and blue-footed boobies and the endemic mockingbird and lava lizard—found only on this easternmost island.
Española: Located in the extreme southeast of the archipelago, this island is home to swallowtailed gulls, Española mockingbirds, Nazca boobies and, seasonally, the world’s only population of waved albatrosses at Punta Suárez.
Floreana: Follow a trail past a pink-tinted lagoon frequented by flamingos. Snorkel among sea lions and abundant fish, or cruise along Champion Islet by Zodiac. Visit the famous wooden barrel at Post Office Bay and learn about its unusual postal system. (B,L,D)
Day 7 - Galápagos / Disembark Ship / Quito
Disembark this morning for a return flight to the mainland, where you’ll transfer to your Hotel in
Quito, there are several hotel options . The afternoon and evening are at your leisure. You may be able to take advantage of overnight flights home. (B)
Day 8 - Quito
After breakfast, transfer to the airport and board flights home, unless you have arranged for additional nights or an extension. (B)
Departure Time: Anytime on day 8, or after 7:00p.m. local time on day 7.
Departure City: Quito, Ecuador
Occupancy Cost per person 2026
Stateroom
Islander Suite
Solo Stateroom
Cost Includes:
£8,999pp
£12,615pp
£12,615
Meals (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner included) are provided as detailed in the itinerary, along with all transportation in Quito and the Galápagos. This includes 1 night hotelpre-voyage in Quito, internal flights to the Galápagos, 5 nights aboard Islander II, full board with drinks served at lunch, dinner and cocktail hour and round the clock soft drinks, beers and snacks available, and 1 night post-voyage in Quito. All expedition lectures, exploratory tools, and guided hikes/Zodiac cruises are included. Please refer to www.expeditions.co.uk/terms for full inclusions and conditions.
Subject to availability, on request basis only. Prices will be confirmed at point of quotation.
LUXURY MACHU PICCHU RAIL EXTENSION
Featuring Hiram Bingham Rail Experience
A unique opportunity to experience South America and witness one of the greatest “man-made wonders of the world”: UNESCO World Heritage designated site Machu Picchu. You’ll travel there in style aboard the Hiram Bingham, a Belmond Train, a stunning locomotive decked out in homage to the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, with elegant 1920s décor and an ambience to match. This luxurious journey takes you through the breathtaking Sacred Valley, where towering peaks, lush terraced landscapes, and ancient Inca ruins create a mesmerising backdrop. Enjoy gourmet dining, live Peruvian music, and impeccable service as you glide towards the Lost City of the Incas. Once at Machu Picchu, explore the awe-inspiring citadel with expert guides, unravelling the mysteries of its history, engineering, and spiritual significance. This unforgettable experience blends opulence, adventure, and cultural discovery in one remarkable journey.
OVERVIEW:
• 9th May - Fly Quito to Lima for 2-night stay including guided tour
• 11th May -Fly Lima to Cusco for a 2-night stay in the Sacred Valley with local experiences
• 13th May - Luxury Rail journey on Hiram Bingham, A Belmond Train to Machu Picchu with guided tour and overnight in Agua Calientes
• 14th May - Free time and choice of hikes at Machu Picchu, return on Hiram Bingham and overnight in Cusco
• 15th May - Cusco City tour and fly back to the UK (arriving 16th May.)
Day 1 - Lima, Peru
Fly from Quito to Lima for a two night stay at the 5* Miraflores Park, A Belmond Hotel.
Day 2 - Lima, Peru
A guided tour of Lima - visit the UNESCO World Heritage Plaza Mayor, opulent cathedral and San Francisco monastery. Admire the collection of Peruvian Gold and renowned display of ceramics at the Larco Museum. Afternoon at leisure. (B, L)
Day 3 - Sacred Valley
Take a short direct flight to Cusco, deep in the heart of the Andes for a two-night stay at the 5* Rio Sagrado, A Belmond Hotel. You will drive through the awe-inspiring scenery of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, visiting the traditional weavers’ Awanakancha Centre and the bustling market town of Pisac, famed for its handicrafts. Afternoon is at your leisure to enjoy the hotel facilities and rest while you acclimatise to the altitude* *Cusco is 3,500m above sea level. Please advise of any breathing or heart conditions that may be affected by the altitude. (B,L,D)
Day 4 - Sacred Valley
Today you will travel through a richly diverse landscape to the village of Ollantaytambo, home to one of the most impressive Inca fortresses. Then to Moray, another intriguing Inca site featuring fascinating concentric circle terraces, once used as an agricultural laboratory testing conditions to grow crops. Enjoy a banquet lunch in the Tiobamba Community today, prepared with local produce and offering breathtaking views of the snow-capped Chicon mountain. After lunch you’ll visit the salt pans of Maras, where traditional 400-year-old techniques are still used. (B)
Day 5 - Hiram Bingham to Machu Picchu
It is time for your luxury rail journey from the Sacred Valley towards Machu Picchu on the 1920s-style Hiram Bingham, A Belmond Train, designed by Compagnie Internationale des Wagons-Lits - the original creators of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express carriages. A gourmet brunch is served on board during the 3-4 hour journey (depending on timetables) which will take you to Aguas Calientes train station with a short bus connection up to Macchu Picchu*
Machu Picchu stands at 2,340m above sea level, showcasing the Incas’ incredible urban engineering skills. Enjoy a private guided tour of the 15thcentury Inca citadel and surrounding complexes. After your tour, make your way by bus back down to your Belmond hotel in Aguas Calientes, 5* Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel, where you will stay for the night. Please note, one small overnight bag only for your overnight at the Sanctuary Lodge hotel. *Again please be advised of the high altitude. Please note: only one small overnight bag is permitted on the Hiram Bingham (and subsequently the hotel in Aguas Calientes), remaining luggage will be transferred to your hotel in Cusco. (B,L,D)
Day 6 - Machu Picchu and return on the train
This morning you will have opportunity to explore by yourselves, with a choice of three hiking options: Machu Picchu Mountain, Huayna Picchu Mountainboth with strenuous ascents - or a shorter, gentler experience to Huchuy Picchu mountain. Or just relax!
In the afternoon descend on the Hiram Bingham with dinner served on board and transfer to the 5* Monasterio, A Belmond Hotel in Cusco.
All hiking options are subject to availability and full details will be provided. (B,L,D)
Day 7-8 - Cusco & return to the UK by air (B)
Occupancy
Double Occupancy
Single Occupancy
Cost Includes:
Cost per person 2026
£7,299pp
£10,549
Accommodation with breakfast throughout, meet and greet transfers, guided excursions, transport (excluding international flights) and meals (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner included) all as detailed in the itinerary. Subject to availability, on request basis only. Prices will be confirmed at point of quotation.
Clockwise from top: National Geographic Islander II; spacious Category SU stateroom; plunge pool.
National Geographic Islander II
CAPACITY: 48 guests in 26 staterooms and suites.
REGISTRY: Ecuador OVERALL LENGTH: 280 feet.
This all-suite vessel, newly refitted for Galápagos, launched in August 2022.
PUBLIC SPACES: Expansive observation deck with grill and bar, fitness centre, sauna, outdoor showers and plunge pool; indoor-outdoor patio café and indoor Yacht Club restaurant; lounge newly outfitted for state-of-the-art presentations for all guests, with full-service bar; forward viewing platforms and expansive surrounding teak decks throughout the ship; Science Hub with interactive video display, onboard television network, photo kiosks and versatile lab facilities; reception, chart room, Global Gallery, library and beverage centre. Newly expanded marina with gearing up and snorkel areas, Zodiac boarding, and swim platform.
MEALS: Indoor-outdoor dining with Ecuadorian flair served in a single, unassigned seating in the Patio Café and Yacht Club. The atmosphere is sociable and informal, and menus feature local, sustainable ingredients.
ALL SUITES: 48 guests accommodated in 26 staterooms and suites spread across two decks with connecting, solo and triple options; four Islander Suites with separate living area, table and chairs and bath with bathtub. The Santa Cruz Suite can be reserved as a Family Suite with connecting double suite. All accommodations have large windows, convertible king/twin beds, ample closets, marble double-sink bathrooms, Wi-Fi access, stocked mini-bar, flat screen television with shipboard network.
EXPEDITION TOOLS: Zodiac Mark V boats for landings and cruising, custom-built glass-bottom Zodiac, fleet of kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, snorkel gear for adults and children, Science Hub equipped for oceanography, video editing and screenings, video microscope, remote cameras.
SPECIAL FEATURES: Shipboard doctor, undersea specialist, National Geographic certified photo instructor, National Geographic Global Explorers family program led by National Geographic certified field educators, suites for science and conservation (indicated as ★ on deck plan) reserved for invited Galápagos community members, researchers, educators, and storytellers.
WELLNESS: Wellness specialist, fitness centre, yoga space, spa with quartz massage table, sauna.
STATEROOM: Bridge & Main Deck—280 sq. ft. with two large windows, seating area with sofa, lounge chair #203-207, 211, 215, 206-208, 210-212, 220, 301, 311, 302, 306-308, 310-312, 316
ISLANDER SUITE: Bridge & Main Deck—515 sq. ft. with four windows, separate living room with sofa, two lounge chairs, large bath with rain shower and tub #209, 218, 303, 309
SOLO STATEROOM: Bridge & Main Deck—280 sq. ft. with two large windows, seating area with sofa, lounge chair #217, 222, 315, 318
CONNECTING STATEROOMS: #205/207, 302/306
FAMILY SUITE: Santa Cruz Islander Suite #303/301
TRIPLE OCCUPANCY: Staterooms #312, 316, and Islander Suites (#209, 218, 303, 309). With sofa made up as third bed. Third person rates are one-half the double occupancy rate.
SHARED OCCUPANCY: Shares can be requested for staterooms at double occupancy rate.
OBSERVATION DECK
PROMENADE DECK BRIDGE DECK
MAIN DECK
MARINA DECK
indicates adjoining staterooms and suites
Please refer to www.expeditions.co.uk/terms for full inclusions and conditions. Peru Optional Extension Terms & Conditions: Price is based on departing Quito and arriving Lima on 9th May 2026 and excludes international flights. Please note all schedules are subject to change by the operators. This itinerary may be amended owing to local restrictions or timetable changes at any time. Porterage is included in Peru (2 pieces per person). Time restrictions apply to the solo hikes. Your guide will endeavour to visit all possible areas of the historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu, please be aware that local restrictions may mean all areas are not accessible. Small overnight bag only on Hiram Bingham to Aguas Calientes, luggage transferred to next hotel. Please note, this tour visits high altitude and requires walking on uneven and steep terrain/steps. Suitable clothing and footwear is required. For hikes at Machu Picchu, these are subject to availability and permits are required, these must be selected ahead of departure. A good level of fitness is required for Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain, and a more general level for Huchuy Picchu mountain. Gratuities are not included. Full Fred. Holidays and Operator terms apply.
