Quasar Expeditions - 30 Years Brochure

THE IMPORTANCE OF FAMILY If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.

- African proverb Behind all that we stand for, behind everything that has been created, behind the passion of our day-to-day efforts, lies the backbone of our business; a family.

Thirty years ago we set out on a journey to offer a selected few the possibility of seeing one of the best-kept secrets of our planet through the eyes of Charles Darwin. This journey would not have been possible without all the extraordinary people involved along the way.

We are blessed to have had such great

Dolores Gangotena de Diez Founder

co-workers, business partners and amazing friends working along our side from the beginning: people of true worth who we consider family.

We dedicate this huge milestone to our past and our present; to all of you who are part of the Quasar Expeditions’ family today.

Thank you for walking together with us.

With sincerest appreciation and respect,

Eduardo Diez Founder

TRAVEL PHILOSOPHY

A FAMILY Through ancestry, passion and friendship, the concept of family is essential to the work we do each day. Magical moments with people and with nature, rather than amenities, are what de�ine our expeditions.

To celebrate this accomplishment, we look back at what has been the cornerstone of our travel philosophy for the past 30 years: privacy and intimacy in unique and remote destinations, so that the world can be experienced as Charles Darwin once did.

OUR FOUNDERS Our love for nature inspired the creation of Quasar Expeditions three decades ago. We knew we always had to offer truly immersive experiences, so that the destinations our guests visit will forever hold a special place in their hearts.

EXPERTISE The difference between a good and an exceptional adventure lies in expertise. From custom-built vessels, to itineraries and tailormade experiences, a team of experts is always with you both behind the scenes and on the �ield.

CONSERVATION Our mission to educate all our guests and make them ambassadors of conservation can be summed up in these simple words: “In the end we will conserve only what we love; we will love only what we understand; and we will understand only what we are taught.” – Baba Dioum

DESTINATIONS The destination marks the starting point for the creation of our travel products, which are conceived and built from the ground up. They are tailored speci�ically for each destination, offering our guests an experience that encapsulates the people, the wildlife, the scenery and the environment of the region.

180 YEARS SINCE THE VOYAGE OF THE BEAGLE While most Europeans of the time were busy navigating and charting the world, Charles Darwin was quietly confabulating one of the most revolutionary and profound theories of his era aboard the HMS Beagle.

Quasar Expeditions’ 30th anniversary also marks 180 years since Darwin’s return from his most famous voyage across the globe. Relive essential parts of this historic journey on our adventures through Tierra del Fuego, Patagonia, Argentina, Chile, Peru and the Galapagos Islands.

GALAPAGOS - ISLAS ENCANTADAS For a period in their history, the Galapagos Islands were known around the world as the “Enchanted Isles�.

There is a mysterious and fascinating serenity that can be sensed while navigating these waters. For thousands of years, countless species have evolved and adapted to these treacherous lands and, despite the extremely limited resources, they have made the Galapagos their home.

Galapagos is the last remaining wildlife sanctuary.

JACQUES COUSTEAU

A LIVING LABORATORY It is only when we immerse ourselves in this remarkable archipelago, that we are able to fully comprehend what captivated Charles Darwin to formulate a new understanding of the origins of life.

Dragons that dive to over 30 feet beneath the waves in search for food, �lightless birds that swim and �ish underwater like bullet torpedo's and prehistoric giant tortoises with

elephant-like feet that once roamed the earth with dinosaurs, are just a small fraction of the nearly 9,000 species, most found nowhere else in the world, that make the Galapagos Islands a haven for life.

There is no doubt the Galapagos archipelago is a living laboratory, for scientists, naturalists and passionate travelers, and should be preserved for future generations.

ATYPICAL YACHTS In an archipelago where cruising options are extremely varied, only a handful of yachts with true personality and character stand out.

Built with Galapagos in mind and encompassing a series of supplements

including rich history, exquisite design, ample outside spaces and a stellar crew, our Galapagos yachts are, in summary, atypical. Those who voyage across the islands on these �ine vessels are able to experience a vision of the Galapagos known only by a special few.

THE GRACE OF A PRINCESS Grace Patricia Kelly was the true representation of beauty, class and elegance in the 1950’s, as well as one of the most well known American actresses of the century. Following her marriage with Prince Rainer III of Monaco in 1956, in what the press called the “Wedding of the Century”, Grace Kelly became one of the most respected royal �igures in the world.

Originally constructed by Camper & Nicholsons, Quasar Expeditions salvaged and restored Princess Kelly's royal honeymoon yacht and rechristened her the M/Y Grace. Today she sails the Galapagos Islands as an icon and a true representation of the Princess who once graced her decks.

GALAPAGOS CONSERVATION

“We do not inherit the Earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children.”

- Moses Henry Cass

The remoteness of the Galapagos archipelago makes it a traveler’s paradise, yet the Islands are faced by troubling issues that constantly threaten wildlife and its ecosystem.

Despite being granted status as a Unesco World Heritage Site, the Galapagos face an onslaught of man made threats which include illegal �ishing in

what is one of the largest marine reserve in the world, unsustainable immigration to the islands from a variety of foreign species, an increase in human population, waste-management, unregulated tourism and global warming.

Through our valued partner, Galapagos Conservancy, Quasar Expeditions has been, since its inception, an active leader in Galapagos conservation.

LAIR OF DRAGONS & STRANGE CREATURES According to Jacques Cousteau, one of the world’s most famous modern explorers, the Galapagos was the last remaining wildlife sanctuary.

Teeming with exotic wildlife that you would have believed only existed in fairy-tales, the Galapagos Islands are home to some of the strangest and most fascinating creatures on earth.

PATAGONIA - REGIO GIGANTUM The earliest navigational charts of the New World sometimes labeled Patagonia with the Latin legend 'regio gigantum', Region of the Giants. A recount of one of the few survivors of Ferdinand Magellan’s expedition of 1520 reported,

on his return, that the region was inhabited by giants. He called the natives “Patagons”, thereby bestowing the name upon the far southern reaches of the Americas.

Why then, and this is not only my particular case does this barren land possess my mind?

I �ind it hard to explain...

But it might partly be because it enhances the horizons of imagination.

During the Voyage of the Beagle Patagonia, 1830

CHARLES DARWIN

JEEP OVERLAND SAFARIS The concept of a safari has changed, focusing now on expertise, exploration and conservation, closer to the original Swahili de�inition of an ‘overland journey’. Modern safaris imply spending time exploring the wilds, in the hopes of discovering and viewing in excitement as wildlife welcomes us along the way.

The National Parks of Patagonia, in their raw, natural form, have thus become the perfect hosts for a Safari experience.

Quasar Expeditions has partnered with the legendary Jeep® brand, to offer our guests the possibility of exploring the National Parks of Patagonia in the comfort and intimacy of a private vehicle, while being led through each excursion by some of the most professional and knowledgeable naturalists around.

WILDLIFE ADAPTED TO THE EXTREMES The Patagonian Puma, the world’s largest mountain lion roams the lands of Patagonia as the region’s top predator.

In the skies above, we are witnesses of the graceful �light of South America’s largest bird, the Andean Condor. And on Patagonia’s glaciers, we �ind the Patagonian Dragon, the only creature in the land that lives on ice.

Patagonia’s wildlife has adapted to the extremes of the region, giving way to some of the most spectacular wildlife encounters as we venture into its Grand National Parks.

PATAGONIA CONSERVATION

Through our partnership with the Carbon Fund, Tread Lightly and Reforest Patagonia, coupled with an international environmental certi�ication, Quasar Expeditions is taking the necessary steps to minimize our footprint in this wild frontier.

“Well, everybody’s destiny is what it is. I just feel lucky that I somehow escaped that busy world that often consumes us, and got to do something that really had more meaning. It’s like David Brower used to say – to pay my rent for living on the planet.”

- Douglas Tompkins (1943 – 2015) Founder of The North Face and Active Conservationist

As with many wild and beautiful places that have become a focal point of attention for travelers around the globe, Patagonia’s natural beauty is constantly at odds with invasive, unregulated tourism, waste management, man-made �ires and deforestation for cattle farms.

Quasar Expeditions understands these issues and actively looks for long-term solutions.

NATURE’S LAST FRONTIER It is dif�icult to understand why someone like Charles Darwin, an experienced traveler who had explored the world on several occasions, suddenly became mesmerized by the pure vastness of Patagonia. Had it been the wildlife, the strange natives or the colossal natural wonders that captured his imagination?

Take an intimate and private journey with Quasar Expeditions through a region of dramatic landscapes and a monumental geological past, to experience Patagonia as Darwin once did.

ECUADOR FOUR WORLDS, ONE PLACE Ecuador holds within its boundaries one of the highest degrees of natural and cultural biodiversity’s of any country in the world. In just two weeks, guests can visit the magical forests of the amazon basin, the Andean high-

lands and their awe-inspiring landscapes, the golden coast and its endless beaches, and the iconic Galapagos Islands. Discover four different worlds, easily accessible to travelers in just one place.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT – THE CITY OF QUITO At latitude zero degrees (0°) lies the beautiful colonial City of Quito, the �irst in the World to be declared a World Heritage Site by Unesco. Sitting high in the Andean foothills, Quito was constructed on the foundations of an ancient Incan city, and is best known for its Spanish colonial buildings dating

back more than 500 years. Highlights include the gold-leaf plated Church of La Compañía, the Plaza Grande square, La Ronda street, and historic mansions now converted into 5-star retreats in the heart of the city. Featured Image – Casa Gangotena Mansion Hotel

PERU – LAND OF HIDDEN TREASURES Peru is a living marvel. Within its boundaries it holds world-renown treasures such as the mysterious city of Machu Picchu, once the heart of the famous Incan Empire. But there are many more treasures waiting to be

unearthed as we venture into the famous Nazca Lines, the Amazon Rainforest, Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca and immerse ourselves in the critically acclaimed gastronomic boom of its capital, Lima.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT – THE PARACAS PENINSULA In the northern part of Peru lies a hidden gem known as the Paracas Peninsula, a desert peninsula belonging to Peru’s famous Pisco Province, and located within the country’s only marine reserve. This unusual peninsula is best known for the Paracas Candela-

bra, a prehistoric geoglyph of nearly 600 ft (180m) in height, where pottery dating back to 200 BCE has been found.

Featured Image - Libertador Luxury Camp

CHILE – ALWAYS SURPRISING Within its narrow borders, Chile packs a wealth of diverse landscapes and offers some of the best lodging experiences in South America. Enjoy the star-�illed skies of the mighty Atacama Desert in the north, the �irst-rate vine-

yards and bustling cities of the central region, and the unspoiled wilds of Patagonia in the south, all within the borders of the longest country in South America.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT – LANDSCAPES OF ATACAMA The driest desert on Earth has often been described as a moon-like setting due to its desolate landscapes. The odd combination of rock formations, canyons, salt basins and lava �lows of Chile’s famed Atacama Desert, make this region one of the most striking regions in all of Chile. Its landscapes appear to have been pulled right off a

science �iction book. Visit the dry setting of the Atacama to be a witness of its bubbling geysers, hot springs, crystal-clear blue lagoons, snow-capped volcanoes, and the worlds’ clearest skies, in the comfort and �ine service of some of the country’s best hotels.

Featured Image - Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa

ARGENTINA – BEATS TO YOUR RHYTHM Argentina has long held travelers in awe, with its mega diverse terrain that encompasses the Andes Mountains, deserts, tropical forests, glacial lakes and its vast Pampa grasslands - the traditional grazing ground of its famed

beef cattle. Those who visit Argentina will be delighted by the country’s wonderful properties, personalized service and delicious gastronomy. The classics alone make Argentina a formidable wanderlust cocktail.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT – WORLDCLASS VINEYARDS The region around the city of Mendoza is one of the top wine-producing regions in the entire world, and its position in the shadows of the Andes mountain range make it an amazing destination for many other pursuits.

Enjoy world-class vineyards, a vibrant local culture, �irst-class dining experiences and lodging options to satisfy even the most discerning of travelers.

Featured Image - The Vines Resort & Spa

WILDLIFE & MARINE RESERVES The geographical location and varying climatic conditions of many of our destinations, together with the in�luence of important ocean currents, winds, and the regular seasonal changes, have created some of the worlds most spectacular marine and wildlife environments in the world.

Found within protected National Parks and Marine Reserves, these areas include: The Galapagos National Park, The Galapagos Marine Reserve, the Nazca-Desventuradas Marine Park in Chile, and Patagonia’s National Parks of Torres del Paine and Los Glaciares.

THE TRAITS OF THE REAL EXPERTS Over the last 30 years, Quasar Expeditions’ founders have personally handpicked the naturalist guides and tour conductors who lead all of our expeditions.

The ability to turn the inaccessible and intangible, into an intimate and immersive experience, is a trait owned by only a special few. These are the real experts, the ones who make the differ-

ence between a good and an exceptional adventure. This trait requires local knowledge, kind human spirit, attention to safety, friendliness, professionalism, impeccable service and an alignment with the company’s travel philosophy and conservation mission.

We are honored to have such an outstanding team of local guides and tour leaders as part of the Quasar Expeditions family.

ADVENTURES FOR EVERYONE TAILOR-MADE

PRIVATE & SMALL GROUPS

FAMILY & MULTIGENERATIONAL

The majority of our trips are tailormade, handcrafted to your speci�ic requirements. Tell us about your dream trip, and together we will make it happen.

Privacy and intimacy have always been at the forefront of our travel philosophy. The wonders of our world are better experienced away from the crowds.

Find the perfect travel inspiration to bond and reconnect with family and friends on these special departures geared for adults and children alike.

HONEYMOONS

SPECIAL INTEREST

SPECIAL GUEST INVITATIONS

Enjoy the peace of mind of knowing your honeymoon will be perfect. We will work with you to understand your preferences and execute with perfection.

Trips tailored to your passions. Passions are unlimited, but they include: photography, wellness, bird watching, adventure, culinary and more.

Inspirational individuals are invited on speci�ic departures throughout the year, adding a whole new dimension to the destination.

REGIONAL DMC Galapagos Islands Ecuador Peru

Chile

Patagonia

Argentina

OUR PARTNERS

Ecuador Headquarters

USA Of�ices

Chile Of�ices

Peru Of�ices

Ponce Carrasco E8-06 y Av. Diego de Almagro.

Almagro Plaza Tower, 11th Floor, Ste 1103, Quito, Ecuador

7855 N.W. 12th St. Ste 111 Doral, FL 33126 USA

Los Dominicos 8630 Edi�icio Patagonia, Ste 305 Las Condes Santiago, Chile

San Isisdro - Lima 27 Lima, Peru

Ecuador Tel 593.2.382.5680 / 593.2.382.5681 USA Tel 305.599.9008 USA Toll Free 1.800.247.2925 Chile Tel 56.2.2.952.3269 UK Toll Tel 0.800.883.0827 Peru Tel 51.1.222.2708 Brazil Tel 55.11.4305.6603

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