Quito, Ecuador


PRE - WILD WONDERS OF THE GALAPAGOS 2024

Ecuador’s Galápagos Islands are one of the world’s most remarkable destinations: an open-air wildlife museum that stirs the explorer within everyone. The archipelago, located about 600 miles west of mainland Ecuador, is home to an astonishing variety of endemic species — enough to inspire a theory that would change the world — and proves an irresistible destination for adventurers and nature-lovers to this day.

Special Note: Due to the nature of the day trips on this program, it is not suitable for guests who have walking difficulty or utilize a wheelchair. Guests must be able to get in and out of small dinghy boats with little to no assistance. Also, any guests travelling with Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines should read further below for airline stipulations with regards to bringing this equipment on tour.

This program begins in Quito, Ecuador therefore your flight must be booked into the Mariscal Sucre International Airport in Quito.

DAY 1

On arrival at the Quito International Airport, proceed through Immigration formalities, identify and collect your luggage, and clear Customs.

After Customs clearance you will meet our local representative and transfer to your hotel which is located near the airport.

Check in time is at 3:00pm. Although every effort will be made to have your room available before this time, this cannot be guaranteed. Should you have an early arriving flight you may wish to book an extra night so that your room is ready upon your arrival.

Meals are on your own today.

DAY 2

After breakfast, meet your guide and drive to the airport where you will take a flight to Galapagos.

Upon arrival at Baltra Airport, a Galapagos Naturalist Guide will welcome the group and help with luggage and guidance towards a public bus that will drive towards the Itabaca Channel. Next board a public ferry for a 5-minute crossing of the azure waters of the channel towards Santa Cruz. On Santa Cruz, board a private vehicle just for our group, to transfer to Puerto Ayora on the other side of the island. Driving through the rural areas of the island, you will experience the agriculture of the archipelago as well as the diversity of its flora. Surrounded by wild landscapes and different species, keep a lookout for the finches that are famous for being the basis of Darwin´s theory of evolution.

Lunch will be served at a local venue in the highlands.

During your visit to the Santa Cruz Highlands, watch the famous Galapagos land tortoises in their natural environment and learn how the private ranches aid to protect these special animals. You can hear their sounds while they are trying to eat the leaves of the trees or crashing through the undergrowth. Tortoises of all different ages and sizes gather here: small young ones with shining carapaces, and older ones which are a little bit more laggard and cracks in their shells showing evidence of a long life. While seeking the giant tortoises, your local guide will share the story of the origin the lava tunnels located at this area. Formed by the lava floods of the volcanoes, they range from the highlands down to the sea level.

Transfer to Puerto Ayora town, where you will enjoy a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station and its famous residents within an impressive giant prickly-pear cactus forest. These are the headquarters of scientific investigation, conservation, and the National Park administration in the islands. Gain insight into the huge efforts being made by scientists, guides, rangers and park managers to preserve this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Charles Darwin Research Station is also part of the "Centro de Crianza Fausto Llerena" which is the breeding center for the tortoises. Tortoises are raised here in the care of researchers and then when ready are re-introduced into their natural environment.

Continue to your hotel for check-in. Dinner is served at the hotel after an exciting and memorable day.

NOTE: Please pack accordingly for the flight from Quito to the Galapagos. Guests can only check in free of charge one suitcase with a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23 kg). Each guest is also permitted free of charge one carry-on bag with a maximum of 15 lbs (7 kg). Any excess luggage will be stored free of charge in Quito. Guests checking in more than one suitcase or an overweight bag on the flight will need to pay excess or overweight luggage fees at the airport upon check in. The average cost is approximately $120 USD per extra suitcase and an additional $120 USD for an overweight bag. Fees are imposed by the airline and are subject to change.

DAY 3

Today take a full day boat tour to one of the nearby Islands. The island chosen for the day is subject to confirmation by Galapagos National Park Management much closer to the program operation date. This government institution assigns the island tours based on technical ecological analysis and is dependent on the number of groups visiting the area at the same time. Oceania Cruises nor our local ground operator can control which programs are chosen for each day. Start times vary from 6:00am – 8:30am depending on the program.

Island Tours:

BARTOLOME:

Experience a day in paradise with beautiful white beaches, outer space ambient, clear water, and observe as many native animals start their day.

On the two-hour boat trip breakfast is served while watching the sunrise at sea. There may be an opportunity to observe dolphins and other marine residents very close to the boat in the early hours.

Landing in Bartolome, approximately 300 steps lead up through the moon-like landscape to the highest point of the island. The reward is an amazing view over the islands Santiago, North Seymour, Baltra, Santa Cruz and Rábida. Also in view is Chinese Hat Island, as well as the well-known Pinnacle Rock, which is all that remains of an ancient volcano. The rock is home to a large quantity of sea birds and is the most photographed landscape in the Galapagos Islands.

After changing clothes for a beach visit, board the dinghy-ride for a short ride to Sullivan Bay for snorkeling. Those who don't wish to snorkel may stay on the dinghy to search among the rocks for the diminutive Galapagos Penguin. Back at the beach enjoy some time to relax or swim. The shallow sea invites you to go swimming and snorkeling while we search for Galapagos penguins, sharks, starfish, rays, sea turtles and other exotic and colorful fish. Enjoy the diversity of native residents such as marine iguanas, sea lions, pelicans, and more. After this amazing adventure, lunch is served on the return journey.

SEYMOUR AND BACHAS:

This tour offers the golden chance to get to know Seymour Island and Bachas beach. During the 1-hour boat navigation to Seymour Island, observe the slow awakening of the archipelago as the day begins.

Disembark your boat and board a dinghy for a ride along the rocky coast near a small forest consisting of gray and silver Palo Santo (Holy Stick) trees, which are without leaves for most of the year. Seymour is famous for its large colonies of birds. The unique male frigate birds with their inflated red pouches attract females during breeding season, and the famous Galapagos blue-footed boobies can be observed as well. Other highlights of this excursion are a beach with small cliffs, seagulls, many sea lions, marine iguanas and pelicans, most only an arm's length away.

A freshly cooked lunch consists of two courses and is served on the boat. After lunch, your boat navigates to Bachas beach along the northern coast of Santa Cruz Island. Take a short hike to the flamingo pond just behind the beach, and afterwards refresh with swimming and snorkeling at this isolated paradise beach with white sand and turquoise waters. Sea lions, rays, sea turtles, and tropical fish may join in our underwater experience!

PLAZAS AND PUNTA CARRION:

Board a boat and cruise to South Plaza Island. The island welcomes travelers with a bright colorful red and green carpet of sesuvio, an endemic plant, spread over the Island, as well as the loud, friendly barking of several sea lion families which have settled down on the shore of the channel between North and South Plaza Islands where your boat anchors. The turquoise water of the ocean juxtaposes perfectly with the white shining beaches and the black lava rocks of the coast.

The hike is easy and goes alongside relaxing sea lions and land iguanas which can be found on most parts of the island. The trail leads to the highest cliff where swallow-tailed gulls cross the air screaming. Here lie the sea lions which could not persist against their competitors climbing up the almost vertical wall. At the same time, tropical birds, blue-footed boobies, and other marine frigate birds glide gently in the wind. We suggest guests bring along binoculars in order to get an extraordinary close view of these animals, as well as the other marine life. The view from the highest point over the ocean and the powerful waves breaking at the cliffs is an experience that visitors will not forget.

Afterwards, the trip continues to Punta Carrion, where lunch is served on board the boat. This is a great spot to snorkel and swim among rays, sharks, and hundreds of colorful tropic fish.

SANTA FE:

Formed by uplifting, rather than by a volcano, Santa Fe is known for having one of the most beautiful coves in all the Galapagos. Some of the island’s endemic species include the Galapagos hawk, Galapagos snake, land iguanas, various types of finches, and the Galapagos mockingbird. The visit includes a hike on a trail past salt bushes where Galapagos hawks as well as the Santa Fe land iguanas tend to roam. Playful sea lions will usually accompany swimmers and snorkelers during beach time.

FLOREANA:

Navigate to the small town of Puerto Velasco Ibarra located on the Floreana Island (approximately 2.5 hours from Santa Cruz). Upon arrival, take local transportation known as “Chiva” to start a 30-minute ride up to the highlands of Floreana Island. The chiva will ascend a dirt road surrounded by typical dry vegetation which transforms into a lush, green vegetation as you gain elevation. In this area, you will also find some farms with banana, coffee, cacao, and other tropical plantations. The short drive will end at the “pampada” from where you will start a beautiful walk to observe the typical flora of the area. Along the way you will also encounter some giant Galapagos tortoises. Continue to the place known as “Asilo de la Paz” (Peace Asylum), a historical place where the German Wittmer family settled down when they arrived to Floreana in 1932. Observe the caves used as their home before moving to the place which is now known as Puerto Velasco Ibarra. Back in town, enjoy lunch prepared in a small, local restaurant.

Next, walk to “La Loberia”, a beautiful bay. The main attraction is the presence of a small colony of sea lions. There is also a great chance to observe marine iguanas resting on the rocks, and in the waters of the bay we may be able to see marine turtles.

ISABELA:

This morning, sail to the town of Puerto Villamil on Isabela Island (approximately 3 hours from Santa Cruz). Upon arrival, visit the Isabela Tortoise Breading and Interpretation Center where your guide will explain the different activities developed by the National Park to protect the fragile environment. Here, you will also find Giant Galapagos Tortoises of different species and sizes.

Afterwards, walk to the place known as “Humedales” (Wetlands). The walk follows a well-maintained path from which you can observe this beautiful place composed by lagoons and rocks and surrounded by four species of mangroves and typical trees of the area. In the lagoons you can observe flamingos and migratory birds.

After lunch at a local restaurant, visit "Las Tintoreras”, a scenic area where you will find colonies of marine iguanas, sea lions, and many sharks known as Tintoreras (White-tipped sharks) resting in the channels formed by lava flows. Later, you can do some snorkeling, perhaps in the company of sea lions, penguins and marine turtles.

Regardless of the program selected for the day, your trip ends with a late afternoon return and dinner at your hotel.

Please Note:

Boat tours may be shared with independent guests

Boat sailing during the navigable day tour is usually rough and due to sea conditions, may take longer than 2 hours. The islands to be visited are determined at the sole discretion of the Galapagos National Park Management.

DAY 4

This day will be similar to Day 3 but with a different island visited. As with Day 3, the island visited is subject to confirmation closer to program operation.

Your day trip ends with a late afternoon return and dinner at your hotel.

DAY 5

After breakfast, transfer to the airport. On the way, make a short stop to see the Twin Craters.

Upon arrival at Quito’s airport, meet your local guide and drive to a nearby restaurant for lunch. After enjoying lunch, drive to Quito’s Historical Center for a panoramic tour.

Quito, nestled at the foot of 15,696-foot Volcán Pichincha, is known for its eternally spring-like climate and for the beauty of its well-preserved colonial center.

Originally settled by the Quitu tribe in the first millennium, Quito was eventually integrated into the Inca Empire before being destroyed and re-founded in 1534 by Spanish Conquistador Sebastian de Benalcázar.

For nearly three centuries, the arts and intellectual societies flourished under Spanish colonial rule, a fact evident in the historic center’s splendidly restored colonial buildings and churches lining narrow, cobbled streets. Due to the city’s preservation of its blended past, UNESCO declared Quito the first of its World Heritage Sites in 1978. The city is beautifully situated in an Andean valley at 9350 feet, making it the 2nd highest capital city in the world.

This afternoon's panoramic sightseeing demonstrates some of the reasons why Ecuador's capital earned its honor as the first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at San Francisco Church, La Compañía and the seven tons of gold gilding its glittering walls, and the bustling Independence Plaza, flanked by the Presidential Palace and the Cathedral of Quito. Rich in art treasures, fine woodcarvings, and flowering balconies, the historic center is the lifeblood of Quito.

After your tour, proceed to your hotel for dinner and an overnight. Your hotel is located near the airport.

Guests will be re-united with any stored luggage.

DAY 6

After an early breakfast transfer to the Quito Airport for an international flight to Lima. Upon arrival in Lima, a representative will meet the group and transfer you to the port of Callao for embarkation.

NOTE: Please pack accordingly for the flight from Quito to Lima. Guests can check in free of charge 1 suitcase with a maximum weight 50 lbs (23 kg). Each guest is also permitted free of charge one carry-on bag with a maximum of 15 lbs (7 kg).

For this reason, a second piece of checked luggage per person (per maximum weight listed above) is included in the cost of this program. Should guests need to check in more than 2 pieces or have any overweight luggage on the flight, they will need to pay the airline fees at the airport upon check in. The average cost is approximately $120 USD per extra suitcase and an additional $120 USD for an overweight bag. Fees are imposed by the airline and are subject to change.

Land Program Details Step by Step:

• Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. This itinerary may change without prior notice due to National Park dispositions or due to force majeure. This program is subject to flight confirmations which are beyond our control. All program details including timings and any flights indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Direct flights are never guaranteed.

• Itineraries with the most up to date details (at the time) will be issued when you are emailed your final cruise documents 21 days prior to sailing. You will then receive one last final itinerary from our ground operator with a Welcome Letter upon arrival or at your hotel. Please review that Welcome Letter and your final itinerary carefully for any further amendments.

• The hotels used for your land program will be the hotels listed in this document unless you have been advised otherwise in advance of the land program start date.

• Guests failing to arrive on Day 1 of a scheduled land program will be considered a no-show and their hotel space released.

Extra Nights

• If you book extra nights through the cruise line, you will be met as per the flight details provided and transferred to your hotel. Check-in is 2:00pm (subject to change). Meals other than breakfast, as well as activities, are on your own until day 2 of the program.

• If you have an early-arriving flight, you may wish to book an extra night as your room will not be ready for occupation until approximately 2:00pm.

• If you book extra nights on your own, transfers are not included.

DAY 1

Arrive at the Mariscal Antonio José de Sucre International Airport in Quito. After going through Customs and Immigration and luggage collection, you are met and transferred to your hotel. Check in time at your hotel is 3:00pm. Although every effort will be made to have rooms available sooner, this cannot be guaranteed.

Any meals are on your own today.

Overnight at the Eurobuilding Airport Hotel or similar hotel.

Meet and Greet and transfers

• Final cruise documents will be emailed 21 days prior to sailing. The local ground agent’s telephone number will be on page 1, if you can’t locate the meet-and-greet representative upon arrival. Be aware that the representative may be assisting others and may not be in sight when you first exit Customs and the luggage claim area.

• Look for someone holding a sign with the cruise line logo and possibly your name. If in doubt, ask the airport staff to direct you to the meeting area for transfers or to page our representative.

• Meet and Greet and transfers are arranged for guests arriving on Day 1 of a land program or for extra nights booked through the cruise line and are arranged based on the flight details received by guests at least 14 days before sailing. Guests arriving independently before the program start date will not have a transfer included.

• If we have not received your flight details or your flights have changed, and the Destination Services Land Team has not been notified, then a transfer cannot be provided, and guests will be responsible for getting to the land program hotel at their own expense. Please immediately contact our Reservations Department for any flight changes before departure.

DAY 2 – timings are depending on flight details

5:00am Breakfast at your hotel

6:10am Transfer to the airport

6:20am Arrival at the Quito Airport and check in procedures

8:20am Flight to Baltra Island via Guayaquil (Flight details TBA and subject to change)

11:06am Arrival at Baltra Airport and transfer to Santa Cruz Island

12:00pm Lunch and visit to the Highlands of Santa Cruz

2:30pm Transfer to the Charles Darwin Research Station

3:15pm Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station

4:15pm Transfer to your hotel and check in

7:30pm Dinner at your hotel

Overnight at the Ikala Hotel or similar hotel

DAY 3

TBA Breakfast at your hotel or onboard the boat (depending on the navigable tour)

TBA Navigable tour

1:00pm Lunch onboard or in a seated venue (depends on the visited island)

3:30pm Navigate back to the dock and return to your hotel

5:00pm Leisure time

7:00pm Dinner at the hotel

Overnight at the Ikala Hotel or similar hotel

DAY 4

TBA Breakfast at your hotel or onboard the boat (depending on the navigable tour)

TBA Navigable tour

1:00pm Lunch onboard or in a seated venue (depends on the visited island)

3:30pm Navigate back to the dock and return to your hotel

5:00pm Leisure time

7:00pm Dinner at the hotel

Overnight at the Ikala Hotel or similar hotel

DAY 5 – timings are depending on flight details

5:00am Breakfast at your hotel

6:00am Transfer to the airport with a short stop at the Twin Craters

7:30am Visit the Twin Craters

8:25am Arrival at the Baltra Airport - check in procedures

10:25am Flight to Quito (Flight details TBA and subject to change)

2:49pm Arrival to Quito Airport

2:50pm Meet your guide and transfer to lunch venue

3:45pm Lunch at a local restaurant

4:45pm Transfer to Quito’s colonial center

5:30pm Panoramic City Tour of Quito

7:00pm Transfer to your hotel

8:30pm Dinner at the hotel

Overnight at the Eurobuilding Airport Hotel or similar hotel

DAY 6 – timings are depending on flight details

Breakfast at your hotel

9:00am Transfer to the airport and check in procedures

12:00pm Flight to Lima (Flight details TBA and subject to change)

2:15pm Arrival to Lima’s Airport

2:30pm Transfer to the Port of Callao

3:30pm Embark the ship

Expected Weather:

The Galapagos Islands have a subtropical climate regulated by the cold Humboldt Current and the warm El Nino current. Weather varies during the year. From December until May temperatures range from the low 80°F (26 C°) to the high 90°F (32°C) (with possibilities of rain). From June to September temperatures vary from the low 60°F (15 C°) to the high 70°F (21°C). This is the garua season (mist in the mornings). From October until December temperatures range from the 70°F (15 C°) to the 80°F (26 C°) (dry season).

What to Bring:

It is not necessary to carry much to the Galapagos, pack light and pack smart. Lightweight, fast drying materials are recommended.

• Light loose pants, shorts, shirts (short and long sleeved)

• A windbreaker or light sweater for evening or early morning

• Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses

• Shoes: you will have dry landings (step directly from the dinghy onto dry land) and wet landings (wade to shore from the dinghy through shallow water). You can either bring one pair of “hybrid” shoes that are good for walking and getting wet (Keens are great; Chacos and Tevas work as well), or one set of footwear for getting wet (sandals or water shoes) and one pair to bring ashore in a backpack for hiking (light hikers or sneakers)

• Small backpack to carry on land visits for your camera and water

• Plastic bag to keep your camera or photographic equipment dry

• Snorkeling gear (not essential)

• On board the day trip boats, snorkeling gear will be available for all passengers. If you use a fin size smaller than 6-7 or larger than 10-11, please bring your own as these sizes may not be available.

• Wetsuit (not essential)

• Any required medications and seasick tablets if you are prone to motion sickness on boats

• Binoculars

• Insect repellent

Local Currency:

Ecuador’s local currency is US Dollars

Electricity:

Ecuador uses 110 volts, 60 cycle electricity, same as in the USA. Plugs are typically the 2-pronged flat type so US travelers will not typically need a converter or adapter. In case needed, hotels can provide adaptors.

Luggage information:

Flights Quito – Galapagos – Quito - Guests can only check in free of charge one suitcase with a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23 kg). Each guest is also permitted free of charge one carry-on bag with a maximum of 15 lbs (7 kg). Any excess luggage will be stored free of charge in Quito at the hotel. Guests checking in more than one suitcase or an overweight bag on the flight will need to pay excess or overweight luggage fees at the airport upon check in.

Flight Quito to Lima - Guests can check in free of charge 1 suitcase with a maximum weight 50 lbs (23 kg). Each guest is also permitted free of charge one carry-on bag with a maximum of 15 lbs (7 kg). For this reason, a second piece of checked luggage per person (per maximum weight listed above) is included in the cost of this program. Should guests need to check in more than 2 pieces or have any overweight luggage on the flight, they will need to pay the airline fees at the airport upon check in.

The average cost is approximately $120 USD per extra suitcase and an additional $120 USD for an overweight bag. Fees are imposed by the airline and are subject to change.

Make sure all luggage has your name on it and don’t forget to bring with you to the Galapagos any documents, medications and valuables.

Carriage of Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines on internal flights per airline regulations (subject to change as each airline has their own regulations)

1. Guests must obtain a Doctor’s Certificate mentioning their medical condition and the need to carry this equipment with them on their flights.

2. The certificate should have attached a picture of the equipment with its description/specifications especially with regards to the type of batteries used (lithium/dry or any other type)

3. These documents need to be sent to the Land Program Team via the Reservations Team at least one month prior to travel so that our local operator can begin the notification process with the airline(s).

4. Failure to comply with the above regulations may result in a denial of this equipment at the airport for which the cruise line nor our local ground operator be responsible for.

Documents and Visa Requirements:

Please note that passport holders are responsible for obtaining the required documentation applicable for entry. Passports must be valid for at least six (6) months after completion of your journey and should also have sufficient blank pages for visas and immigrations stamps. Guests should check with their local Embassy for any Visa stipulations for their nationality and ensure that proper documentation is obtained if necessary.

VERY IMPORTANT: The name on your cruise booking, passport and any visas if required, must all be exactly the same for flight ticket purchase for this program otherwise guests may be denied travel by flight. Please ensure that all documents are identical in spelling to the names provided for your cruise reservation including first, middle and last name. Manifests generated by the cruise line must match your travel documents.

Failure to have the required documents ahead of time or incorrect names on flight tickets will result in either denial of travel or ticket re-purchase and guests will be responsible for any fees incurred.

Aircraft type (subject to change):

To / From Galapagos - Airbus A319

To / From Lima –Airbus A319

Accommodations:

Ikala Hotel

Thomas de Berlanga 110 y, Puerto Ayora, Ecuador

Phone: (954) 495-4979

EB Hotel by Eurobuilding Airport Quito

Calle 24 de Septiembre S2-389 Conector Alpachaca, Quito 170907, Ecuador

Phone: +593 2-394-1020

*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required, they will be of equal ratings and standards and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure, then you will be staying at the hotels listed in this program.

Program Includes for guests:

• 2 nights at the Eurobuilding Airport Hotel (Standard Double Room) or similar hotel

• 3 nights at the Ikala Hotel (Standard Double Room) or similar hotel

• All meals per the itinerary - 1 soft drink and 2 alcoholic beverages per person at lunch and dinner

• Transportation with air-conditioning

• Transfers

• English-speaking guides

• Airport assistance in Quito and Lima

• Galapagos Naturalist Guide (provided by the Galapagos National Park) to accompany and guide the guests in the Galapagos Islands

• 1 x 250 ml bottle of water per person on each transfer on the mainland

• Touring and entrances per the itinerary

• Galapagos National Park taxes and entrance fees

• Porterage

• Economy class flights per the itinerary (direct flights not guaranteed)

• Excess luggage storage in Quito

• One additional piece of checked luggage (max 50 lbs / 23 kg) per person on the flight from Quito to Lima

Please Note: Guests booking their own flights (independent of the cruise line) are responsible for ensuring that the cruise line has the updated arrival information, so your transfer can be arranged. If you book additional nights independently of the cruise line, an arrival transfer is not provided. If we do not receive flight details a minimum of 14 days in advance, transfers will not be provided.

Program Excludes for guests:

• Any meals or beverages not listed in the itinerary

• All items of a personal nature, such as telephone calls, laundry & curio shop purchases

• Gratuities to drivers and guides

• Hotel incidentals including mini bar and room service

• Overweight or excess luggage fees

• Visa fees if required

Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.

Please note: All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Land Programs must be purchased no later than 60 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 60 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty. There are no refunds for unused portions of any program. Guests failing to arrive on Day 1 of a scheduled land program will be considered a no-show and their hotel space released. Arrangements for accommodation and transfers will be at the expense of guests.

More Details
Prices are per person, based on double occupancy and subject to availability.

PRE - WILD WONDERS OF THE GALAPAGOS - 2023

Ecuador’s Galápagos Islands are one of the world’s most remarkable destinations: an open-air wildlife museum that stirs the explorer within everyone. The archipelago, located about 600 miles west of mainland Ecuador, is home to an astonishing variety of endemic species — enough to inspire a theory that would change the world — and proves an irresistible destination for adventurers and nature-lovers to this day.

Special Note: Due to the nature of the day trips on this program, it is not suitable for guests who have walking difficulty or utilize a wheelchair. Guests must be able to get in and out of small dinghy boats with little to no assistance. Also, any guests travelling with Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines should read further below for airline stipulations with regards to bringing this equipment on tour.

This program begins in Quito, Ecuador therefore your flight must be booked into the Mariscal Sucre International Airport in Quito.

DAY 1

On arrival at the Quito International Airport, proceed through Immigration formalities, identify and collect your luggage and clear Customs.

After Customs clearance you will meet our local representative and transfer to your hotel which is located near the airport.

Check in time is at 3:00pm. Although every effort will be made to have your room available before this time, this cannot be guaranteed. Should you have an early arriving flight you may wish to book an extra night so that your room is ready upon your arrival.

Meals are on your own today.

DAY 2

After breakfast, meet your guide and drive to the airport where you will take a flight to Galapagos.

Upon arrival at Baltra Airport, a Galapagos Naturalist Guide will welcome the group and help with luggage and guidance towards a public bus that will drive towards the Itabaca Channel. Next board a public ferry for a 5-minute crossing of the azure waters of the channel towards Santa Cruz. On Santa Cruz, board a private vehicle just for our group, to transfer to Puerto Ayora on the other side of the island. Driving through the rural areas of the island, you will experience the agriculture of the archipelago as well as the diversity of its flora. Surrounded by wild landscapes and different species, keep a lookout for the finches that are famous for being the basis of Darwin´s theory of evolution.

Lunch will be served at a local venue in the highlands.

During your visit to the Santa Cruz Highlands, watch the famous Galapagos land tortoises in their natural environment and learn how the private ranches aid to protect these special animals. You can hear their sounds while they are trying to eat the leaves of the trees or crashing through the undergrowth. Tortoises of all different ages and sizes gather here: small young ones with shining carapaces, and older ones which are a little bit more laggard and cracks in their shells showing evidence of a long life. While seeking the giant tortoises, your local guide will share the story of the origin the lava tunnels located at this area. Formed by the lava floods of the volcanoes, they range from the highlands down to the sea level.

Transfer to Puerto Ayora town, where you will enjoy a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station and its famous residents within an impressive giant prickly-pear cactus forest. These are the headquarters of scientific investigation, conservation, and the National Park administration in the islands. Gain insight into the huge efforts being made by scientists, guides, rangers and park managers to preserve this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Charles Darwin Research Station is also part of the "Centro de Crianza Fausto Llerena" which is the breeding center for the tortoises. Tortoises are raised here in the care of researchers and then when ready are re-introduced into their natural environment.

Continue to your hotel for check-in. Dinner is served at the hotel after an exciting and memorable day.

NOTE: please pack accordingly for the flight from Quito to the Galapagos. Guests can only check in free of charge one suitcase with a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23 kg). Each guest is also permitted free of charge one carry-on bag with a maximum of 15 lbs (7 kg). Any excess luggage will be stored free of charge in Quito. Guests checking in more than one suitcase or an overweight bag on the flight will need to pay excess or overweight luggage fees at the airport upon check in. The average cost is approximately $120 USD per extra suitcase and an additional $120 USD for an overweight bag. Fees are imposed by the airline and are subject to change.

DAY 3

Today take a full day boat tour to one of the nearby Islands. The island chosen for the day is subject to confirmation by Galapagos National Park Management much closer to the program operation date. This government institution assigns the island tours based on technical ecological analysis and is dependent on the number of groups visiting the area at the same time. Oceania Cruises nor our local ground operator can control which programs are chosen for each day. Start times vary from 6:00am – 8:30am depending on the program.

Island Tours:

BARTOLOME:

Experience a day in paradise with beautiful white beaches, outer space ambient, clear water, and observe as many native animals start their day.

On the two-hour boat trip breakfast is served while watching the sunrise at sea. There may be an opportunity to observe dolphins and other marine residents very close to the boat in the early hours.

Landing in Bartolome, approximately 300 steps lead up through the moon-like landscape to the highest point of the island. The reward is an amazing view over the islands Santiago, North Seymour, Baltra, Santa Cruz and Rábida. Also in view is Chinese Hat Island, as well as the well-known Pinnacle Rock, which is all that remains of an ancient volcano. The rock is home to a large quantity of sea birds and is the most photographed landscape in the Galapagos Islands.

After changing clothes for a beach visit, board the dinghy-ride for a short ride to Sullivan Bay for snorkeling. Those who don't wish to snorkel may stay on the dinghy to search among the rocks for the diminutive Galapagos Penguin. Back at the beach enjoy some time to relax or swim. The shallow sea invites you to go swimming and snorkeling while we search for Galapagos penguins, sharks, starfish, rays, sea turtles and other exotic and colorful fish. Enjoy the diversity of native residents such as marine iguanas, sea lions, pelicans, and more. After this amazing adventure, lunch is served on the return journey.

SEYMOUR AND BACHAS:

This tour offers the golden chance to get to know Seymour Island and Bachas beach. During the 1-hour boat navigation to Seymour Island, observe the slow awakening of the archipelago as the day begins.

Disembark your boat and board a dinghy for a ride along the rocky coast near a small forest consisting of gray and silver Palo Santo (Holy Stick) trees, which are without leaves for most of the year. Seymour is famous for its large colonies of birds. The unique male frigate birds with their inflated red pouches attract females during breeding season, and the famous Galapagos blue-footed boobies can be observed as well. Other highlights of this excursion are a beach with small cliffs, seagulls, many sea lions, marine iguanas and pelicans, most only an arm's length away.

A freshly cooked lunch consists of two courses and is served on the boat. After lunch, your boat navigates to Bachas beach along the northern coast of Santa Cruz Island. Take a short hike to the flamingo pond just behind the beach, and afterwards refresh with swimming and snorkeling at this isolated paradise beach with white sand and turquoise waters. Sea lions, rays, sea turtles, and tropical fish may join in our underwater experience!

PLAZAS AND PUNTA CARRION:

Board a boat and cruise to South Plaza Island. The island welcomes travelers with a bright colorful red and green carpet of sesuvio, an endemic plant, spread over the Island, as well as the loud, friendly barking of several sea lion families which have settled down on the shore of the channel between North and South Plaza Islands where your boat anchors. The turquoise water of the ocean juxtaposes perfectly with the white shining beaches and the black lava rocks of the coast.

The hike is easy and goes alongside relaxing sea lions and land iguanas which can be found on most parts of the island. The trail leads to the highest cliff where swallow-tailed gulls cross the air screaming. Here lie the sea lions which could not persist against their competitors climbing up the almost vertical wall. At the same time, tropical birds, blue-footed boobies, and other marine frigate birds glide gently in the wind. We suggest guests bring along binoculars in order to get an extraordinary close view of these animals, as well as the other marine life. The view from the highest point over the ocean and the powerful waves breaking at the cliffs is an experience that visitors will not forget.

Afterwards, the trip continues to Punta Carrion, where lunch is served on board the boat. This is a great spot to snorkel and swim among rays, sharks, and hundreds of colorful tropic fish.

SANTA FE:

Formed by uplifting, rather than by a volcano, Santa Fe is known for having one of the most beautiful coves in all the Galapagos. Some of the island’s endemic species include the Galapagos hawk, Galapagos snake, land iguanas, various types of finches, and the Galapagos mockingbird. The visit includes a hike on a trail past salt bushes where Galapagos hawks as well as the Santa Fe land iguanas tend to roam. Playful sea lions will usually accompany swimmers and snorkelers during beach time.

FLOREANA:

Navigate to the small town of Puerto Velasco Ibarra located on the Floreana Island (approximately 2.5 hours from Santa Cruz). Upon arrival, take local transportation known as “Chiva” to start a 30-minute ride up to the highlands of Floreana Island. The chiva will ascend a dirt road surrounded by typical dry vegetation which transforms into a lush, green vegetation as you gain elevation. In this area, you will also find some farms with banana, coffee, cacao, and other tropical plantations. The short drive will end at the “pampada” from where you will start a beautiful walk to observe the typical flora of the area. Along the way you will also encounter some giant Galapagos tortoises. Continue to the place known as “Asilo de la Paz” (Peace Asylum), a historical place where the German Wittmer family settled down when they arrived to Floreana in 1932. Observe the caves used as their home before moving to the place which is now known as Puerto Velasco Ibarra. Back in town, enjoy lunch prepared in a small, local restaurant.

Next, walk to “La Loberia”, a beautiful bay. The main attraction is the presence of a small colony of sea lions. There is also a great chance to observe marine iguanas resting on the rocks, and in the waters of the bay we may be able to see marine turtles.

ISABELA:

This morning, sail to the town of Puerto Villamil on Isabela Island (approximately 3 hours from Santa Cruz). Upon arrival, visit the Isabela Tortoise Breading and Interpretation Center where your guide will explain the different activities developed by the National Park to protect the fragile environment. Here, you will also find Giant Galapagos Tortoises of different species and sizes.

Afterwards, walk to the place known as “Humedales” (Wetlands). The walk follows a well-maintained path from which you can observe this beautiful place composed by lagoons and rocks and surrounded by four species of mangroves and typical trees of the area. In the lagoons you can observe flamingos and migratory birds.

After lunch at a local restaurant, visit "Las Tintoreras”, a scenic area where you will find colonies of marine iguanas, sea lions, and many sharks known as Tintoreras (White-tipped sharks) resting in the channels formed by lava flows. Later, you can do some snorkeling, perhaps in the company of sea lions, penguins and marine turtles.

Regardless of the program selected for the day, your trip ends with a late afternoon return and dinner at your hotel.

Please Note:

Boat tours may be shared with independent guests

Boat sailing during the navigable day tour is usually rough and due to sea conditions, may take longer than 2 hours. The islands to be visited are determined at the sole discretion of the Galapagos National Park Management.

DAY 4

This day will be similar to Day 3 but with a different island visited. As with Day 3, the island visited is subject to confirmation closer to program operation.

Your day trip ends with a late afternoon return and dinner at your hotel.

DAY 5

After breakfast, transfer to the airport. On the way, make a short stop to see the Twin Craters.

Upon arrival at Quito’s airport, meet your local guide and drive to a nearby restaurant for lunch. After enjoying lunch, drive to Quito’s Historical Center for a panoramic tour.

Quito, nestled at the foot of 15,696-foot Volcán Pichincha, is known for its eternally spring-like climate and for the beauty of its well-preserved colonial center.

Originally settled by the Quitu tribe in the first millennium, Quito was eventually integrated into the Inca Empire before being destroyed and re-founded in 1534 by Spanish Conquistador Sebastian de Benalcázar.

For nearly three centuries, the arts and intellectual societies flourished under Spanish colonial rule, a fact evident in the historic center’s splendidly restored colonial buildings and churches lining narrow, cobbled streets. Due to the city’s preservation of its blended past, UNESCO declared Quito the first of its World Heritage Sites in 1978. The city is beautifully situated in an Andean valley at 9350 feet, making it the 2nd highest capital city in the world.

This afternoon's panoramic sightseeing demonstrates some of the reasons why Ecuador's capital earned its honor as the first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at San Francisco Church, La Compañía and the seven tons of gold gilding its glittering walls, and the bustling Independence Plaza, flanked by the Presidential Palace and the Cathedral of Quito. Rich in art treasures, fine woodcarvings, and flowering balconies, the historic center is the lifeblood of Quito.

After your tour, proceed to your hotel for dinner and an overnight. Your hotel is located near the airport.

Guests will be re-united with any stored luggage.

DAY 6

After an early breakfast transfer to the Quito Airport for an international flight to Lima. Upon arrival in Lima, a representative will meet the group and transfer you to the port of Callao for embarkation.

NOTE: Please pack accordingly for the flight from Quito to Lima. Guests can check in free of charge 1 suitcase with a maximum weight 50 lbs (23 kg). Each guest is also permitted free of charge one carry-on bag with a maximum of 15 lbs (7 kg).

For this reason, a second piece of checked luggage per person (per maximum weight listed above) is included in the cost of this program. Should guests need to check in more than 2 pieces or have any overweight luggage on the flight, they will need to pay the airline fees at the airport upon check in. The average cost is approximately $120 USD per extra suitcase and an additional $120 USD for an overweight bag. Fees are imposed by the airline and are subject to change.

Land Program Details Step by Step:

•Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. This itinerary may change without prior notice due to National Park dispositions or due to force majeure. This program is subject to flight confirmations which are beyond our control. All program details including timings and any flights indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Direct flights are never guaranteed.

•Itineraries with the most up to date details (at the time) will be issued when you are emailed your final cruise documents 21 days prior to sailing. You will then receive one last final itinerary from our ground operator with a Welcome Letter upon arrival or at your hotel. Please review that Welcome Letter and your final itinerary carefully for any further amendments.

•The hotels used for your land program will be the hotels listed in this document unless you have been advised otherwise in advance of the land program start date.

•Guests failing to arrive on Day 1 of a scheduled land program will be considered a no-show and their hotel space released.

Extra Nights

•If you book extra nights through the cruise line, you will be met as per the flight details provided and transferred to your hotel. Check-in is 3:00pm (subject to change). Meals other than breakfast, as well as activities, are on your own until day 2 of the program.

•If you have an early-arriving flight, you may wish to book an extra night as your room will not be ready for occupation until approximately 3:00pm.

•If you book extra nights on your own, transfers are not included.

DAY 1

Arrive at the Mariscal Antonio José de Sucre International Airport in Quito.

After going through Customs and Immigration and luggage collection, you are met and transferred to your hotel

3:00pm Check in time at your hotel is 3:00pm. Although every effort will be made to have rooms available sooner, this cannot be guaranteed.

Meals are on your own today

Overnight at the Eurobuilding Airport Hotel or similar hotel

Meet and Greet and transfers

•Final cruise documents will be emailed 21 days prior to sailing. The local ground agent’s telephone number will be on page 1, if you can’t locate the meet-and-greet representative upon arrival. Be aware that the representative may be assisting others and may not be in sight when you first exit Customs and the luggage claim area.

•Look for someone holding a sign with the cruise line logo and possibly your name. If in doubt, ask the airport staff to direct you to the meeting area for transfers or to page our representative.

•Meet and Greet and transfers are arranged for guests arriving on Day 1 of a land program or for extra nights booked through the cruise line and are arranged based on the flight details received by guests at least 14 days before sailing. Guests arriving independently before the program start date will not have a transfer included.

•If we have not received your flight details or your flights have changed, and the Destination Services Land Team has not been notified, then a transfer cannot be provided, and guests will be responsible for getting to the land program hotel at their own expense. Please immediately contact our Reservations Department for any flight changes before departure.

DAY 2 – timings are depending on flight details

6:30am Breakfast at your hotel

7:45am Transfer to the airport

8:00am Arrival at the Quito Airport - check in procedures

9:35am Flight to Baltra Island (Flight details TBA and subject to change)

12:15pm Arrival at Baltra Airport and transfer to Santa Cruz Island

1:30pm Lunch and visit to the Highlands of Santa Cruz

3:30pm Transfer to the Charles Darwin Research Station

4:15pm Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station

5:30pm Transfer to your hotel and check in

7:30pm Dinner at your hotel

Overnight at the Ikala Hotel or similar hotel

DAY 3

7:00am Breakfast at your hotel or onboard the boat (depending on the navigable tour)

TBA Navigable tour

1:00pm Lunch onboard or in a seated venue (depends on the visited island)

3:30pm Navigate back to the dock and return to your hotel

5:00pm Leisure time

7:00pm Dinner at the hotel

Overnight at the Ikala Hotel or similar hotel

DAY 4

7:00am Breakfast at your hotel or onboard the boat (depending on the navigable tour)

TBA Navigable tour

1:00pm Lunch onboard or in a seated venue (depends on the visited island)

3:30pm Navigate back to the dock and return to your hotel

5:00pm Leisure time

7:00pm Dinner at the hotel

Overnight at the Ikala Hotel or similar hotel

DAY 5 – timings are depending on flight details

7:00am Breakfast at your hotel

8:15am Transfer to the airport with a short stop at the Twin Craters

9:30am Visit the Twin Craters

10:30am Arrival at the Baltra Airport - check in procedures

12:07pm Flight to Quito (Flight details TBA and subject to change)

3:10pm Arrival to Quito Airport

3:30pm Meet your guide and transfer to lunch venue

3:45pm Lunch at a local restaurant

4:45pm Transfer to Quito’s colonial center

5:30pm Panoramic City Tour of Quito

7:00pm Transfer to your hotel

8:30pm Dinner at the hotel

Overnight at the Eurobuilding Airport Hotel or similar hotel

DAY 6 – timings are depending on flight details

6:00am Breakfast at your hotel

6:45am Transfer to the airport and check in procedures

9:17am Flight to Lima (Flight details TBA and subject to change)

11:30am Arrival to Lima’s Airport

12:00pm Transfer to the Port of Callao

1:45pm Embark the ship

Expected Weather:

The Galapagos Islands have a subtropical climate regulated by the cold Humboldt Current and the warm El Nino current. Weather varies during the year. From December until May temperatures range from the low 80°s (26 C°) to the high 90°s (32°) (with possibilities of rain). From June to September temperatures vary from the low 60°s (15 C°) to the high 70°s (21°). This is the garua season (mist in the mornings). From October until December temperatures range from the 70°s (15 C°) to the 80°s (26 C°) (dry season).

What to Bring:

It is not necessary to carry much to the Galapagos, pack light and pack smart. Lightweight, fast drying materials are recommended.

?Light loose pants, shorts, shirts (short and long sleeved)

?A windbreaker or light sweater for evening or early morning

?Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses

?Shoes: you will have dry landings (step directly from the dinghy onto dry land) and wet landings (wade to shore from the dinghy through shallow water). You can either bring one pair of “hybrid” shoes that are good for walking and getting wet (Keens are great; Chacos and Tevas work as well), or one set of footwear for getting wet (sandals or water shoes) and one pair to bring ashore in a backpack for hiking (light hikers or sneakers)

?Small backpack to carry on land visits for your camera and water

?Plastic bag to keep your camera or photographic equipment dry

?Snorkeling gear (not essential)

?On board the day trip boats, snorkeling gear will be available for all passengers. If you use a fin size smaller than 6-7 or larger than 10-11, please bring your own as these sizes may not be available.

?Wetsuit (not essential)

?Any required medications and seasick tablets if you are prone to motion sickness on boats

?Binoculars

?Insect repellent

Local Currency:

Ecuador’s local currency is US Dollars

Electricity

Ecuador uses 110 volt,60 cycle electricity, same as in the USA. Plugs are typically the 2-pronged flat type so US travelers will not typically need a converter or adapter. In case needed, hotels can provide adaptors.

Luggage information

Flights Quito – Galapagos – Quito - Guests can only check in free of charge one suitcase with a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23 kg). Each guest is also permitted free of charge one carry-on bag with a maximum of 15 lbs (7 kg). Any excess luggage will be stored free of charge in Quito at the hotel. Guests checking in more than one suitcase or an overweight bag on the flight will need to pay excess or overweight luggage fees at the airport upon check in.

Flight Quito to Lima - Guests can check in free of charge 1 suitcase with a maximum weight 50 lbs (23 kg). Each guest is also permitted free of charge one carry-on bag with a maximum of 15 lbs (7 kg). For this reason, a second piece of checked luggage per person (per maximum weight listed above) is included in the cost of this program. Should guests need to check in more than 2 pieces or have any overweight luggage on the flight, they will need to pay the airline fees at the airport upon check in.

The average cost is approximately $120 USD per extra suitcase and an additional $120 USD for an overweight bag. Fees are imposed by the airline and are subject to change.

Make sure all luggage has your name on it and don’t forget to bring with you to the Galapagos any documents, medications and valuables.

Carriage of Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines on internal flights per airline regulations (subject to change as each airline has their own regulations)

1. Guests must obtain a Doctor’s Certificate mentioning their medical condition and the need to carry this equipment with them on their flights.

2. The certificate should have attached a picture of the equipment with its description/specifications especially with regards to the type of batteries used (lithium/dry or any other type)

3. These documents need to be sent to the Land Program Team via the Reservations Team at least one month prior to travel so that our local operator can begin the notification process with the airline(s).

4. Failure to comply with the above regulations may result in a denial of this equipment at the airport for which the cruise line nor our local ground operator be responsible for.

Documents and Visa Requirements:

Please note that passport holders are responsible for obtaining the required documentation applicable for entry. Passports must be valid for at least six (6) months after completion of your journey and should also have sufficient blank pages for visas and immigrations stamps. Guests should check with their local Embassy for any Visa stipulations for their nationality and ensure that proper documentation is obtained if necessary.

VERY IMPORTANT – The name on your cruise booking, passport and any visas if required, must all be exactly the same for flight ticket purchase for this program otherwise guests may be denied travel by flight. Please ensure that all documents are identical in spelling to the names provided for your cruise reservation including first, middle and last name. Manifests generated by the cruise line must match your travel documents.

Failure to have the required documents ahead of time or incorrect names on flight tickets will result in either denial of travel or ticket re-purchase and guests will be responsible for any fees incurred.

Aircraft type (subject to change):

To / From Galapagos - Airbus A319

To / From Lima –Airbus A319

Accommodations:

Ikala Hotel

Thomas de Berlanga 110 y, Puerto Ayora, Ecuador

Phone: (954) 495-4979

EB Hotel by Eurobuilding Airport Quito

Calle 24 de Septiembre S2-389 Conector Alpachaca, Quito 170907, Ecuador

Phone: +593 2-394-1020

*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required, they will be of equal ratings and standards and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure, then you will be staying at the hotels listed in this program.

Program Includes for guests:

•2 nights at the Eurobuilding Airport Hotel (Standard Double Room) or similar hotel

•3 nights at the Ikala Hotel (Standard Double Room) or similar hotel

•All meals per the itinerary - 1 soft drink and 2 alcoholic beverages per person at lunch and dinner

•Transportation with air-conditioning

•Transfers

•English-speaking guides

•Airport assistance in Quito and Lima

•Galapagos Naturalist Guide (provided by the Galapagos National Park) to accompany and guide the guests in the Galapagos Islands

•1 x 250 ml bottle of water per person on each transfer on the mainland

•Touring and entrances per the itinerary

•Galapagos National Park taxes and entrance fees

•Porterage

•Economy class flights per the itinerary (direct flights not guaranteed)

•Excess luggage storage in Quito

•One additional piece of checked luggage (max 50 lbs / 23 kg) per person on the flight from Quito to Lima

Please Note: Guests booking their own flights (independent of the cruise line) are responsible for ensuring that the cruise line has the updated arrival information, so your transfer can be arranged. If you book additional nights independently of the cruise line, an arrival transfer is not provided. If we do not receive flight details a minimum of 14 days in advance, transfers will not be provided.

Program Excludes for guests:

•Any meals or beverages not listed in the itinerary

•All items of a personal nature, such as telephone calls, laundry & curio shop purchases

•Gratuities to drivers and guides

•Hotel incidentals including mini bar and room service

•Overweight or excess luggage fees

•Visa fees if required

Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.

Please note: All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Land Programs must be purchased no later than 60 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 60 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty. There are no refunds for unused portions of any program. Guests failing to arrive on Day 1 of a scheduled land program will be considered a no-show and their hotel space released. Arrangements for accommodation and transfers will be at the expense of guests.

More Details
Prices are per person, based on double occupancy and subject to availability.

POST - WILD WONDERS OF THE GALAPAGOS 2023

Ecuador’s Galápagos Islands are one of the world’s most remarkable destinations: an open-air wildlife museum that stirs the explorer within everyone. The archipelago, located about 600 miles west of mainland Ecuador, is home to an astonishing variety of endemic species — enough to inspire a theory that would change the world — and proves an irresistible destination for adventurers and nature-lovers to this day.

Special Note: Due to the nature of the day trips on this program, it is not suitable for guests who have walking difficulty or utilize a wheelchair. Guests must be able to get in and out of small dinghy boats with little to no assistance. Also, any guests travelling with Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines should read further below for airline stipulations with regards to bringing this equipment on tour.

This program ends in Quito, Ecuador therefore your flight home must be booked out of the Mariscal Sucre International Airport in Quito.

DAY 1

Disembark in the port of Callao and enjoy a brief tour of Lima as well as lunch before transferring to the airport for an international flight to Quito.

Upon arrival in Quito proceed through Immigration formalities, identify and collect your luggage and clear Customs.

After Customs clearance you will meet our local representative who will transfer you to your hotel which is located near the airport.

Dinner is included at the hotel this evening.

NOTE: Please pack accordingly for the international flight from Lima to Quito. Guests can check in free of charge 1 suitcase with a maximum weight 50 lbs (23 kg). Each guest is also permitted free of charge one carry-on bag with a maximum of 15 lbs (7 kg).

For this reason, a second piece of checked luggage per person (per maximum weight listed above) is included in the cost of this program. Should guests need to check in more than 2 pieces or have any overweight luggage on the flight, they will need to pay the airline fees at the airport upon check in. The average cost is approximately $120 USD per extra suitcase and an additional $120 USD for an overweight bag. Fees are imposed by the airline and are subject to change.

DAY 2

After breakfast, meet your guide and drive to the airport where you will take a flight to Galapagos.

Upon arrival at Baltra Airport, a Galapagos Naturalist Guide will welcome the group and help with luggage and guidance towards a public bus that will drive towards the Itabaca Channel. Next board a public ferry for a 5-minute crossing of the azure waters of the channel towards Santa Cruz. On Santa Cruz, board a private vehicle just for our group, to transfer to Puerto Ayora on the other side of the island. Driving through the rural areas of the island, you will experience the agriculture of the archipelago as well as the diversity of its flora. Surrounded by wild landscapes and different species, keep a lookout for the finches that are famous for being the basis of Darwin´s theory of evolution.

Lunch will be served at a local venue in the highlands.

During your visit to the Santa Cruz Highlands, watch the famous Galapagos land tortoises in their natural environment and learn how the private ranches aid to protect these special animals. You can hear their sounds while they are trying to eat the leaves of the trees or crashing through the undergrowth. Tortoises of all different ages and sizes gather here: small young ones with shining carapaces, and older ones which are a little bit more laggard and cracks in their shells showing evidence of a long life. While seeking the giant tortoises, your local guide will share the story of the origin the lava tunnels located at this area. Formed by the lava floods of the volcanoes, they range from the highlands down to the sea level.

Transfer to Puerto Ayora town, where you will enjoy a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station and its famous residents within an impressive giant prickly-pear cactus forest. These are the headquarters of scientific investigation, conservation, and the National Park administration in the islands. Gain insight into the huge efforts being made by scientists, guides, rangers and park managers to preserve this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Charles Darwin Research Station is also part of the "Centro de Crianza Fausto Llerena" which is the breeding center for the tortoises. Tortoises are raised here in the care of researchers and then when ready are re-introduced into their natural environment.

Continue to your hotel for check-in. Dinner is served at the hotel after an exciting and memorable day.

NOTE: please pack accordingly for the flight from Quito to the Galapagos. Guests can only check in free of charge one suitcase with a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23 kg). Each guest is also permitted free of charge one carry-on bag with a maximum of 15 lbs (7 kg). Any excess luggage will be stored free of charge in Quito. Guests checking in more than one suitcase or an overweight bag on the flight will need to pay excess or overweight luggage fees at the airport upon check in. The average cost is approximately $120 USD per extra suitcase and an additional $120 USD for an overweight bag. Fees are imposed by the airline and are subject to change.

DAY 3

Today take a full day boat tour to one of the nearby Islands. The island chosen for the day is subject to confirmation by Galapagos National Park Management much closer to the program operation date. This government institution assigns the island tours based on technical ecological analysis and is dependent on the number of groups visiting the area at the same time. Oceania Cruises nor our local ground operator can control which programs are chosen for each day. Start times vary from 6:00am – 8:30am depending on the program.

Island Tours:

BARTOLOME:

Experience a day in paradise with beautiful white beaches, outer space ambient, clear water, and observe as many native animals start their day.

On the two-hour boat trip breakfast is served while watching the sunrise at sea. There may be an opportunity to observe dolphins and other marine residents very close to the boat in the early hours.

Landing in Bartolome, approximately 300 steps lead up through the moon-like landscape to the highest point of the island. The reward is an amazing view over the islands Santiago, North Seymour, Baltra, Santa Cruz and Rábida. Also in view is Chinese Hat Island, as well as the well-known Pinnacle Rock, which is all that remains of an ancient volcano. The rock is home to a large quantity of sea birds and is the most photographed landscape in the Galapagos Islands.

After changing clothes for a beach visit, board the dinghy-ride for a short ride to Sullivan Bay for snorkeling. Those who don't wish to snorkel may stay on the dinghy to search among the rocks for the diminutive Galapagos Penguin. Back at the beach enjoy some time to relax or swim. The shallow sea invites you to go swimming and snorkeling while we search for Galapagos penguins, sharks, starfish, rays, sea turtles and other exotic and colorful fish. Enjoy the diversity of native residents such as marine iguanas, sea lions, pelicans, and more. After this amazing adventure, lunch is served on the return journey.

SEYMOUR AND BACHAS:

This tour offers the golden chance to get to know Seymour Island and Bachas beach. During the 1-hour boat navigation to Seymour Island, observe the slow awakening of the archipelago as the day begins.

Disembark your boat and board a dinghy for a ride along the rocky coast near a small forest consisting of gray and silver Palo Santo (Holy Stick) trees, which are without leaves for most of the year. Seymour is famous for its large colonies of birds. The unique male frigate birds with their inflated red pouches attract females during breeding season, and the famous Galapagos blue-footed boobies can be observed as well. Other highlights of this excursion are a beach with small cliffs, seagulls, many sea lions, marine iguanas and pelicans, most only an arm's length away.

A freshly cooked lunch consists of two courses and is served on the boat. After lunch, your boat navigates to Bachas beach along the northern coast of Santa Cruz Island. Take a short hike to the flamingo pond just behind the beach, and afterwards refresh with swimming and snorkeling at this isolated paradise beach with white sand and turquoise waters. Sea lions, rays, sea turtles, and tropical fish may join in our underwater experience!

PLAZAS AND PUNTA CARRION:

Board a boat and cruise to South Plaza Island. The island welcomes travelers with a bright colorful red and green carpet of sesuvio, an endemic plant, spread over the Island, as well as the loud, friendly barking of several sea lion families which have settled down on the shore of the channel between North and South Plaza Islands where your boat anchors. The turquoise water of the ocean juxtaposes perfectly with the white shining beaches and the black lava rocks of the coast.

The hike is easy and goes alongside relaxing sea lions and land iguanas which can be found on most parts of the island. The trail leads to the highest cliff where swallow-tailed gulls cross the air screaming. Here lie the sea lions which could not persist against their competitors climbing up the almost vertical wall. At the same time, tropical birds, blue-footed boobies, and other marine frigate birds glide gently in the wind. We suggest guests bring along binoculars in order to get an extraordinary close view of these animals, as well as the other marine life. The view from the highest point over the ocean and the powerful waves breaking at the cliffs is an experience that visitors will not forget.

Afterwards, the trip continues to Punta Carrion, where lunch is served on board the boat. This is a great spot to snorkel and swim among rays, sharks, and hundreds of colorful tropic fish.

SANTA FE:

Formed by uplifting, rather than by a volcano, Santa Fe is known for having one of the most beautiful coves in all the Galapagos. Some of the island’s endemic species include the Galapagos hawk, Galapagos snake, land iguanas, various types of finches, and the Galapagos mockingbird. The visit includes a hike on a trail past salt bushes where Galapagos hawks as well as the Santa Fe land iguanas tend to roam. Playful sea lions will usually accompany swimmers and snorkelers during beach time.

FLOREANA:

Navigate to the small town of Puerto Velasco Ibarra located on the Floreana Island (approximately 2.5 hours from Santa Cruz). Upon arrival, take local transportation known as “Chiva” to start a 30-minute ride up to the highlands of Floreana Island. The chiva will ascend a dirt road surrounded by typical dry vegetation which transforms into a lush, green vegetation as you gain elevation. In this area, you will also find some farms with banana, coffee, cacao, and other tropical plantations. The short drive will end at the “pampada” from where you will start a beautiful walk to observe the typical flora of the area. Along the way you will also encounter some giant Galapagos tortoises. Continue to the place known as “Asilo de la Paz” (Peace Asylum), a historical place where the German Wittmer family settled down when they arrived to Floreana in 1932. Observe the caves used as their home before moving to the place which is now known as Puerto Velasco Ibarra. Back in town, enjoy lunch prepared in a small, local restaurant.

Next, walk to “La Loberia”, a beautiful bay. The main attraction is the presence of a small colony of sea lions. There is also a great chance to observe marine iguanas resting on the rocks, and in the waters of the bay we may be able to see marine turtles.

ISABELA:

This morning, sail to the town of Puerto Villamil on Isabela Island (approximately 3 hours from Santa Cruz). Upon arrival, visit the Isabela Tortoise Breading and Interpretation Center where your guide will explain the different activities developed by the National Park to protect the fragile environment. Here, you will also find Giant Galapagos Tortoises of different species and sizes.

Afterwards, walk to the place known as “Humedales” (Wetlands). The walk follows a well-maintained path from which you can observe this beautiful place composed by lagoons and rocks and surrounded by four species of mangroves and typical trees of the area. In the lagoons you can observe flamingos and migratory birds.

After lunch at a local restaurant, visit "Las Tintoreras”, a scenic area where you will find colonies of marine iguanas, sea lions, and many sharks known as Tintoreras (White-tipped sharks) resting in the channels formed by lava flows. Later, you can do some snorkeling, perhaps in the company of sea lions, penguins and marine turtles.

Regardless of the program selected for the day, your trip ends with a late afternoon return and dinner at your hotel.

Please Note:

Boat tours may be shared with independent guests

Boat sailing during the navigable day tour is usually rough and due to sea conditions, may take longer than 2 hours. The islands to be visited are determined at the sole discretion of the Galapagos National Park Management.

DAY 4

This day will be similar to Day 3 but with a different island visited. As with Day 3, the island visited is subject to confirmation closer to program operation.

Your day trip ends with a late afternoon return and dinner at your hotel.

DAY 5

After breakfast, transfer to the airport. On the way, make a short stop to see the Twin Craters.

Upon arrival in Quito head to the city’s historic center for a panoramic tour.

Quito, nestled at the foot of 15,696-foot Volcán Pichincha, is known for its eternally spring-like climate and for the beauty of its well-preserved colonial center.

Originally settled by the Quitu tribe in the first millennium, Quito was eventually integrated into the Inca Empire before being destroyed and re-founded in 1534 by Spanish Conquistador Sebastian de Benalcázar.

For nearly three centuries, the arts and intellectual societies flourished under Spanish colonial rule, a fact evident in the historic center’s splendidly restored colonial buildings and churches lining narrow, cobbled streets.

Due to the city’s preservation of its blended past, UNESCO declared Quito the first of its World Heritage Sites in 1978. The city is beautifully situated in an Andean valley at 9350 feet, making it the 2nd highest capital city in the world.

This afternoon's panoramic sightseeing demonstrates some of the reasons why Ecuador's capital earned its honor as the first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at San Francisco Church, La Compañía and the seven tons of gold gilding its glittering walls, and the bustling Independence Plaza, flanked by the Presidential Palace and the Cathedral of Quito. Rich in art treasures, fine woodcarvings, and flowering balconies, the historic center is the lifeblood of Quito.

After your tour, proceed to your hotel for dinner and an overnight. Your hotel is located near the airport.

Guests will be re-united with any stored luggage.

Day 6

Breakfast is included this morning before you check out and transfer to the Mariscal Sucre International Airport

in Quito for your flight home. Should you have a late flight you may wish to purchase an extra night so that you can keep your room until your transfer. Day rooms can only be booked at the hotel and are based on availability at the time.

Land Program Details Step by Step:

•Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. This itinerary may change without prior notice due to National Park dispositions or due to force majeure. This program is subject to flight confirmations which are beyond our control. All program details including timings and any flights indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Direct flights are never guaranteed.

•Itineraries with the most up to date details (at the time) will be issued when you are emailed your final cruise documents 21 days prior to sailing. Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.

•The hotels used for your land program will be the hotels listed in this document unless you have been advised otherwise in advance of the land program start date.

•A departure transfer is not included if guests leave before the last day of the program.

DAY 1 – timings are dependent on flight details once confirmed

TBA Pick up at Callao port – brief city tour

TBA Lunch at a local restaurant

TBA Transfer to the airport

TBA Flight from Lima to Quito (flight details TBA and subject to change)

TBA Arrive at the Mariscal Antonio Jose de Sucre Airport in Quito

TBA Drive to your hotel for check in

Dinner at the hotel

Overnight at the Eurobuilding Airport Hotel or similar

DAY 2

6:30am Breakfast at your hotel

7:45am Transfer to the airport

8:00am Arrival at the Quito Airport - check in procedures

9:35am Flight to Baltra Island (Flight details TBA and subject to change)

12:15pm Arrival at Baltra Airport and transfer to Santa Cruz Island

1:30pm Lunch and visit to the Highlands of Santa Cruz

3:30pm Transfer to the Charles Darwin Research Station

4:15pm Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station

5:30pm Transfer to your hotel and check in

7:30pm Dinner at your hotel

Overnight at the Ikala Hotel or similar hotel

DAY 3

7:00am Breakfast at your hotel or onboard the boat (depending on the navigable tour)

TBA Navigable tour

1:00pm Lunch onboard or in a seated venue (depends on the visited island)

3:30pm Navigate back to the dock and return to your hotel

5:00pm Leisure time

7:00pm Dinner at the hotel

Overnight at the Ikala Hotel or similar hotel

DAY 4

7:00am Breakfast at your hotel or onboard the boat (depending on the navigable tour)

TBA Navigable tour

1:00pm Lunch onboard or in a seated venue (depends on the visited island)

3:30pm Navigate back to the dock and return to your hotel

5:00pm Leisure time

7:00pm Dinner at the hotel

Overnight at the Ikala Hotel or similar hotel

DAY 5 – timings are depending on flight details

7:00am Breakfast at your hotel

8:15am Transfer to the airport with a short stop at the Twin Craters

9:30am Visit the Twin Craters

10:30am Arrival at the Baltra Airport - check in procedures

12:07pm Flight to Quito (Flight details TBA and subject to change)

3:10pm Arrival to Quito Airport

3:30pm Meet your guide and transfer to lunch venue

3:45pm Lunch at a local restaurant

4:45pm Transfer to Quito’s colonial center

5:30pm Panoramic tour of the Colonial Area - visit to La Compañia Church

7:00pm Transfer to your hotel

8:30pm Dinner at the hotel

Overnight at the Eurobuilding Airport Hotel or similar hotel

DAY 6

AM Breakfast at the hotel

12:00pm Check out time

TBA A transfer to the Quito International Airport will be arranged according to your flight details. Should you have a late flight, luggage storage is available at the hotel until your transfer.

Extra Nights: If you book extra nights through the cruise line, you will be transferred to the airport per the flight details provided. Check-out time is 12:00pm (subject to change). Meals other than breakfast are on your own after Day 6 of your program.

Transfers: All guests booking their flights independently are required to ensure the cruise line has their most up to date flight details so that transfers to the airport can be arranged. If flight details are not received 14 days before your cruise start date, transfers will not be arranged.

Should you book any extra nights on your own or your flight is not on the last day of the program, transfers are not included.

Should you have a late departing flight you may wish to book an extra night so that you have occupation of your room until your departure. You will be asked to vacate your room by 12:00pm. Day rooms can only be purchased directly through the hotel.

Expected Weather:

The Galapagos Islands have a subtropical climate regulated by the cold Humboldt Current and the warm El Nino current. Weather varies during the year. From December until May temperatures range from the low 80°s (26 C°) to the high 90°s (32°) (with possibilities of rain). From June to September temperatures vary from the low 60°s (15 C°) to the high 70°s (21°). This is the garua season (mist in the mornings). From October until December temperatures range from the 70°s (15 C°) to the 80°s (26 C°) (dry season).

What to Bring:

It is not necessary to carry much to the Galapagos, pack light and pack smart. Lightweight, fast drying materials are recommended.

?Light loose pants, shorts, shirts (short and long sleeved)

?A windbreaker or light sweater for evening or early morning

?Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses

?Shoes: you will have dry landings (step directly from the dinghy onto dry land) and wet landings (wade to shore from the dinghy through shallow water). You can either bring one pair of “hybrid” shoes that are good for walking and getting wet (Keens are great; Chacos and Tevas work as well), or one set of footwear for getting wet (sandals or water shoes) and one pair to bring ashore in a backpack for hiking (light hikers or sneakers)

?Small backpack to carry on land visits for your camera and water

?Plastic bag to keep your camera or photographic equipment dry

?Snorkeling gear (not essential)

?On board the day trip boats, snorkeling gear will be available for all passengers. If you use a fin size smaller than 6-7 or larger than 10-11, please bring your own as these sizes may not be available.

?Wetsuit (not essential)

?Any required medications and seasick tablets if you are prone to motion sickness on boats

?Binoculars

?Insect repellent

Local Currency:

Ecuador’s local currency is US Dollars

Electricity

Ecuador uses 110 volt,60 cycle electricity, same as in the USA. Plugs are typically the 2-pronged flat type so US travelers will not typically need a converter or adapter. In case needed, hotels can provide adaptors.

Luggage information

Flight Lima to Quito - Guests can check in free of charge 1 suitcase with a maximum weight 50 lbs (23 kg). Each guest is also permitted free of charge one carry-on bag with a maximum of 15 lbs (7 kg). For this reason, a second piece of checked luggage per person (per maximum weight listed above) is included in the cost of this program. Should guests need to check in more than 2 pieces or have any overweight luggage on the flight, they will need to pay the airline fees at the airport upon check in.

Flights Quito – Galapagos – Quito - Guests can only check in free of charge one suitcase with a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23 kg). Each guest is also permitted free of charge one carry-on bag with a maximum of 15 lbs (7 kg). Any excess luggage will be stored free of charge in Quito. Guests checking in more than one suitcase or an overweight bag on the flight will need to pay excess or overweight luggage fees at the airport upon check in.

The average cost is approximately $120 USD per extra suitcase and an additional $120 USD for an overweight bag. Fees are imposed by the airline and are subject to change.

Make sure all luggage has your name on it and don’t forget to bring with you to the Galapagos any documents, medications and valuables.

Carriage of Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines on internal flights per airline regulations (subject to change as each airline has their own regulations)

1. Guests must obtain a Doctor’s Certificate mentioning their medical condition and the need to carry this equipment with them on their flights.

2. The certificate should have attached a picture of the equipment with its description/specifications especially with regards to the type of batteries used (lithium/dry or any other type)

3. These documents need to be sent to the Land Program Team via the Reservations Team at least one month prior to travel so that our local operator can begin the notification process with the airline(s).

4. Failure to comply with the above regulations may result in a denial of this equipment at the airport for which the cruise line nor our local ground operator be responsible for.

Documents and Visa Requirements:

Please note that passport holders are responsible for obtaining the required documentation applicable for entry. Passports must be valid for at least six (6) months after completion of your journey and should also have sufficient blank pages for visas and immigrations stamps. Guests should check with their local Embassy for any Visa stipulations for their nationality and ensure that proper documentation is obtained if necessary.

VERY IMPORTANT – The name on your cruise booking, passport and any visas if required, must all be exactly the same for flight ticket purchase for this program otherwise guests may be denied travel by flight. Please ensure that all documents are identical in spelling to the names provided for your cruise reservation including first, middle and last name. Manifests generated by the cruise line must match your travel documents.

Failure to have the required documents ahead of time or incorrect names on flight tickets will result in either denial of travel or ticket re-purchase and guests will be responsible for any fees incurred.

Aircraft type (subject to change):

To / From Galapagos - Airbus A319

To / From Lima – Airbus or Boeing

Accommodations:

Ikala Hotel

Thomas de Berlanga 110 y, Puerto Ayora, Ecuador

Phone: (954) 495-4979

EB Hotel by Eurobuilding Airport Quito

Calle 24 de Septiembre S2-389 Conector Alpachaca, Quito 170907, Ecuador

Phone: +593 2-394-1020

*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required, they will be of equal ratings and standards and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure, then you will be staying at the hotels listed in this program.

Program Includes for guests:

•3 nights at the Ikala Hotel (Standard Double Room)

•2 nights at the Eurobuilding Hotel in Quito (Standard Double Room)

•All meals per the itinerary - 1 soft drink and 2 alcoholic beverages per person at lunch and dinner

•Transportation with air-conditioning

•Transfers

•English-speaking guides

•Airport assistance in Quito and Lima

•Galapagos Naturalist Guide (provided by the Galapagos National Park) to accompany and guide the guests in the Galapagos Islands

•1 x 250 ml bottle of water per person on each transfer on the mainland

•Touring and entrances per the itinerary

•Galapagos National Park taxes and entrance fees

•Porterage

•Economy class flights per the itinerary (direct flights not guaranteed)

•One additional piece of checked luggage (max 50 lbs / 23 kg) per person on the flight from Lima to Quito

Please Note: Guests booking their own flights (independent of the cruise line) are responsible for ensuring that the cruise line has the updated departure information, so your transfer can be arranged. If you book additional nights independently of the cruise line, a departure transfer is not provided. If we do not receive flight details a minimum of 14 days in advance, transfers will not be provided.

Program Excludes for guests:

•Any meals or beverages not listed in the itinerary

•All items of a personal nature, such as telephone calls, laundry & curio shop purchases

•Gratuities to drivers and guides

•Hotel incidentals including mini bar and room service

•Overweight or excess luggage fees

•Visa fees if required

Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.

Please note: All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Land Programs must be purchased no later than 60 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 60 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty. There are no refunds for unused portions of any program.

More Details
Prices are per person, based on double occupancy and subject to availability.

POST - WILD WONDERS OF THE GALAPAGOS - 2024

Ecuador’s Galápagos Islands are one of the world’s most remarkable destinations: an open-air wildlife museum that stirs the explorer within everyone. The archipelago, located about 600 miles west of mainland Ecuador, is home to an astonishing variety of endemic species — enough to inspire a theory that would change the world — and proves an irresistible destination for adventurers and nature-lovers to this day.

Special Note: Due to the nature of the day trips on this program, it is not suitable for guests who have walking difficulty or utilize a wheelchair. Guests must be able to get in and out of small dinghy boats with little to no assistance. Also, any guests travelling with Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines should read further below for airline stipulations with regards to bringing this equipment on tour.

This program ends in Quito, Ecuador therefore your flight home must be booked out of the Mariscal Sucre International Airport in Quito.

DAY 1

Disembark in the port of Callao and enjoy a brief tour of Lima as well as lunch before transferring to the airport for an international flight to Quito.

Upon arrival in Quito proceed through Immigration formalities, identify, and collect your luggage and clear Customs.

After Customs clearance you will meet our local representative who will transfer you to your hotel which is located near the airport.

Dinner is included at the hotel this evening.

NOTE: Please pack accordingly for the international flight from Lima to Quito. Guests can check in free of charge 1 suitcase with a maximum weight 50 lbs (23 kg). Each guest is also permitted free of charge one carry-on bag with a maximum of 15 lbs (7 kg).

For this reason, a second piece of checked luggage per person (per maximum weight listed above) is included in the cost of this program. Should guests need to check in more than 2 pieces or have any overweight luggage on the flight, they will need to pay the airline fees at the airport upon check in. The average cost is approximately $120 USD per extra suitcase and an additional $120 USD for an overweight bag. Fees are imposed by the airline and are subject to change.

DAY 2

After breakfast, meet your guide and drive to the airport where you will take a flight to Galapagos.

Upon arrival at Baltra Airport, a Galapagos Naturalist Guide will welcome the group and help with luggage and guidance towards a public bus that will drive towards the Itabaca Channel. Next board a public ferry for a 5-minute crossing of the azure waters of the channel towards Santa Cruz. On Santa Cruz, board a private vehicle just for our group, to transfer to Puerto Ayora on the other side of the island. Driving through the rural areas of the island, you will experience the agriculture of the archipelago as well as the diversity of its flora. Surrounded by wild landscapes and different species, keep a lookout for the finches that are famous for being the basis of Darwin´s theory of evolution.

Lunch will be served at a local venue in the highlands.

During your visit to the Santa Cruz Highlands, watch the famous Galapagos land tortoises in their natural environment and learn how the private ranches aid to protect these special animals. You can hear their sounds while they are trying to eat the leaves of the trees or crashing through the undergrowth. Tortoises of all different ages and sizes gather here: small young ones with shining carapaces, and older ones which are a little bit more laggard and cracks in their shells showing evidence of a long life. While seeking the giant tortoises, your local guide will share the story of the origin the lava tunnels located at this area. Formed by the lava floods of the volcanoes, they range from the highlands down to the sea level.

Transfer to Puerto Ayora town, where you will enjoy a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station and its famous residents within an impressive giant prickly-pear cactus forest. These are the headquarters of scientific investigation, conservation, and the National Park administration in the islands. Gain insight into the huge efforts being made by scientists, guides, rangers and park managers to preserve this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Charles Darwin Research Station is also part of the "Centro de Crianza Fausto Llerena" which is the breeding center for the tortoises. Tortoises are raised here in the care of researchers and then when ready are re-introduced into their natural environment.

Continue to your hotel for check-in. Dinner is served at the hotel after an exciting and memorable day.

NOTE: Please pack accordingly for the flight from Quito to the Galapagos. Guests can only check in free of charge one suitcase with a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23 kg). Each guest is also permitted free of charge one carry-on bag with a maximum of 15 lbs (7 kg). Any excess luggage will be stored free of charge in Quito. Guests checking in more than one suitcase or an overweight bag on the flight will need to pay excess or overweight luggage fees at the airport upon check in. The average cost is approximately $120 USD per extra suitcase and an additional $120 USD for an overweight bag. Fees are imposed by the airline and are subject to change.

DAY 3

Today take a full day boat tour to one of the nearby Islands. The island chosen for the day is subject to confirmation by Galapagos National Park Management much closer to the program operation date. This government institution assigns the island tours based on technical ecological analysis and is dependent on the number of groups visiting the area at the same time. Oceania Cruises nor our local ground operator can control which programs are chosen for each day. Start times vary from 6:00am – 8:30am depending on the program.

Island Tours:

BARTOLOME:

Experience a day in paradise with beautiful white beaches, outer space ambient, clear water, and observe as many native animals start their day.

On the two-hour boat trip breakfast is served while watching the sunrise at sea. There may be an opportunity to observe dolphins and other marine residents very close to the boat in the early hours.

Landing in Bartolome, approximately 300 steps lead up through the moon-like landscape to the highest point of the island. The reward is an amazing view over the islands Santiago, North Seymour, Baltra, Santa Cruz and Rábida. Also in view is Chinese Hat Island, as well as the well-known Pinnacle Rock, which is all that remains of an ancient volcano. The rock is home to a large quantity of sea birds and is the most photographed landscape in the Galapagos Islands.

After changing clothes for a beach visit, board the dinghy-ride for a short ride to Sullivan Bay for snorkeling. Those who don't wish to snorkel may stay on the dinghy to search among the rocks for the diminutive Galapagos Penguin. Back at the beach enjoy some time to relax or swim. The shallow sea invites you to go swimming and snorkeling while we search for Galapagos penguins, sharks, starfish, rays, sea turtles and other exotic and colorful fish. Enjoy the diversity of native residents such as marine iguanas, sea lions, pelicans, and more. After this amazing adventure, lunch is served on the return journey.

SEYMOUR AND BACHAS:

This tour offers the golden chance to get to know Seymour Island and Bachas beach. During the 1-hour boat navigation to Seymour Island, observe the slow awakening of the archipelago as the day begins.

Disembark your boat and board a dinghy for a ride along the rocky coast near a small forest consisting of gray and silver Palo Santo (Holy Stick) trees, which are without leaves for most of the year. Seymour is famous for its large colonies of birds. The unique male frigate birds with their inflated red pouches attract females during breeding season, and the famous Galapagos blue-footed boobies can be observed as well. Other highlights of this excursion are a beach with small cliffs, seagulls, many sea lions, marine iguanas and pelicans, most only an arm's length away.

A freshly cooked lunch consists of two courses and is served on the boat. After lunch, your boat navigates to Bachas beach along the northern coast of Santa Cruz Island. Take a short hike to the flamingo pond just behind the beach, and afterwards refresh with swimming and snorkeling at this isolated paradise beach with white sand and turquoise waters. Sea lions, rays, sea turtles, and tropical fish may join in our underwater experience!

PLAZAS AND PUNTA CARRION:

Board a boat and cruise to South Plaza Island. The island welcomes travelers with a bright colorful red and green carpet of sesuvio, an endemic plant, spread over the Island, as well as the loud, friendly barking of several sea lion families which have settled down on the shore of the channel between North and South Plaza Islands where your boat anchors. The turquoise water of the ocean juxtaposes perfectly with the white shining beaches and the black lava rocks of the coast.

The hike is easy and goes alongside relaxing sea lions and land iguanas which can be found on most parts of the island. The trail leads to the highest cliff where swallow-tailed gulls cross the air screaming. Here lie the sea lions which could not persist against their competitors climbing up the almost vertical wall. At the same time, tropical birds, blue-footed boobies, and other marine frigate birds glide gently in the wind. We suggest guests bring along binoculars in order to get an extraordinary close view of these animals, as well as the other marine life. The view from the highest point over the ocean and the powerful waves breaking at the cliffs is an experience that visitors will not forget.

Afterwards, the trip continues to Punta Carrion, where lunch is served on board the boat. This is a great spot to snorkel and swim among rays, sharks, and hundreds of colorful tropic fish.

SANTA FE:

Formed by uplifting, rather than by a volcano, Santa Fe is known for having one of the most beautiful coves in all the Galapagos. Some of the island’s endemic species include the Galapagos hawk, Galapagos snake, land iguanas, various types of finches, and the Galapagos mockingbird. The visit includes a hike on a trail past salt bushes where Galapagos hawks as well as the Santa Fe land iguanas tend to roam. Playful sea lions will usually accompany swimmers and snorkelers during beach time.

FLOREANA:

Navigate to the small town of Puerto Velasco Ibarra located on the Floreana Island (approximately 2.5 hours from Santa Cruz). Upon arrival, take local transportation known as “Chiva” to start a 30-minute ride up to the highlands of Floreana Island. The chiva will ascend a dirt road surrounded by typical dry vegetation which transforms into a lush, green vegetation as you gain elevation. In this area, you will also find some farms with banana, coffee, cacao, and other tropical plantations. The short drive will end at the “pampada” from where you will start a beautiful walk to observe the typical flora of the area. Along the way you will also encounter some giant Galapagos tortoises. Continue to the place known as “Asilo de la Paz” (Peace Asylum), a historical place where the German Wittmer family settled down when they arrived to Floreana in 1932. Observe the caves used as their home before moving to the place which is now known as Puerto Velasco Ibarra. Back in town, enjoy lunch prepared in a small, local restaurant.

Next, walk to “La Loberia”, a beautiful bay. The main attraction is the presence of a small colony of sea lions. There is also a great chance to observe marine iguanas resting on the rocks, and in the waters of the bay we may be able to see marine turtles.

ISABELA:

This morning, sail to the town of Puerto Villamil on Isabela Island (approximately 3 hours from Santa Cruz). Upon arrival, visit the Isabela Tortoise Breading and Interpretation Center where your guide will explain the different activities developed by the National Park to protect the fragile environment. Here, you will also find Giant Galapagos Tortoises of different species and sizes.

Afterwards, walk to the place known as “Humedales” (Wetlands). The walk follows a well-maintained path from which you can observe this beautiful place composed by lagoons and rocks and surrounded by four species of mangroves and typical trees of the area. In the lagoons you can observe flamingos and migratory birds.

After lunch at a local restaurant, visit "Las Tintoreras”, a scenic area where you will find colonies of marine iguanas, sea lions, and many sharks known as Tintoreras (White-tipped sharks) resting in the channels formed by lava flows. Later, you can do some snorkeling, perhaps in the company of sea lions, penguins and marine turtles.

Regardless of the program selected for the day, your trip ends with a late afternoon return and dinner at your hotel.

Please Note:

• Boat tours may be shared with independent guests

• Boat sailing during the navigable day tour is usually rough and due to sea conditions, may take longer than 2 hours. The islands to be visited are determined at the sole discretion of the Galapagos National Park Management.

DAY 4

This day will be similar to Day 3 but with a different island visited. As with Day 3, the island visited is subject to confirmation closer to program operation.

Your day trip ends with a late afternoon return and dinner at your hotel.

DAY 5

After breakfast, transfer to the airport. On the way, make a short stop to see the Twin Craters.

Upon arrival in Quito head to the city’s historic center for a panoramic tour.

Quito, nestled at the foot of 15,696-foot Volcán Pichincha, is known for its eternally spring-like climate and for the beauty of its well-preserved colonial center.

Originally settled by the Quitu tribe in the first millennium, Quito was eventually integrated into the Inca Empire before being destroyed and re-founded in 1534 by Spanish Conquistador Sebastian de Benalcázar.

For nearly three centuries, the arts and intellectual societies flourished under Spanish colonial rule, a fact evident in the historic center’s splendidly restored colonial buildings and churches lining narrow, cobbled streets.

Due to the city’s preservation of its blended past, UNESCO declared Quito the first of its World Heritage Sites in 1978. The city is beautifully situated in an Andean valley at 9350 feet, making it the 2nd highest capital city in the world.

This afternoon's panoramic sightseeing demonstrates some of the reasons why Ecuador's capital earned its honor as the first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at San Francisco Church, La Compañía and the seven tons of gold gilding its glittering walls, and the bustling Independence Plaza, flanked by the Presidential Palace and the Cathedral of Quito. Rich in art treasures, fine woodcarvings, and flowering balconies, the historic center is the lifeblood of Quito.

After your tour, proceed to your hotel for dinner and an overnight. Your hotel is located near the airport.

Guests will be re-united with any stored luggage.

Day 6

Breakfast is included this morning before you check out and transfer to the Mariscal Sucre International Airport

in Quito for your flight home. Should you have a late flight you may wish to purchase an extra night so that you can keep your room until your transfer. Day rooms can only be booked at the hotel and are based on availability at the time.

Land Program Details Step by Step:

• Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. This itinerary may change without prior notice due to National Park dispositions or due to force majeure. This program is subject to flight confirmations which are beyond our control. All program details including timings and any flights indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Direct flights are never guaranteed.

• Itineraries with the most up to date details (at the time) will be issued when you are emailed your final cruise documents 21 days prior to sailing. Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.

• The hotels used for your land program will be the hotels listed in this document unless you have been advised otherwise in advance of the land program start date.

• A departure transfer is not included if guests leave before the last day of the program.

DAY 1 – timings are dependent on flight details once confirmed

TBA Pick up at Callao port – brief city tour

TBA Lunch at a local restaurant

TBA Transfer to the airport

TBA Flight from Lima to Quito (flight details TBA and subject to change)

TBA Arrive at the Mariscal Antonio Jose de Sucre Airport in Quito

TBA Drive to your hotel for check in

Dinner at the hotel

Overnight at the Eurobuilding Airport Hotel or similar

DAY 2

5:00am Breakfast at your hotel

6:10am Transfer to the airport

6:20am Arrival at the Quito Airport - check in procedures

8:20am Flight to Baltra Island via Guayaquil (Flight details TBA and subject to change)

11:06am Arrival at Baltra Airport and transfer to Santa Cruz Island

12:00pm Lunch and visit to the Highlands of Santa Cruz

2:30pm Transfer to the Charles Darwin Research Station

3:15pm Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station

4:15pm Transfer to your hotel and check in

7:30pm Dinner at your hotel

Overnight at the Ikala Hotel or similar hotel

DAY 3

7:00am Breakfast at your hotel or onboard the boat (depending on the navigable tour)

TBA Navigable tour

1:00pm Lunch onboard or in a seated venue (depends on the visited island)

3:30pm Navigate back to the dock and return to your hotel

5:00pm Leisure time

7:00pm Dinner at the hotel

Overnight at the Ikala Hotel or similar hotel

DAY 4

TBA Breakfast at your hotel or onboard the boat (depending on the navigable tour)

TBA Navigable tour

1:00pm Lunch onboard or in a seated venue (depends on the visited island)

3:30pm Navigate back to the dock and return to your hotel

5:00pm Leisure time

7:00pm Dinner at the hotel

Overnight at the Ikala Hotel or similar hotel

DAY 5 – timings are depending on flight details

6:00am Breakfast at your hotel

7:00am Transfer to the airport with a short stop at the Twin Craters

7:50am Visit the Twin Craters

8:30am Arrival at the Baltra Airport - check in procedures

10:56am Flight to Quito (Flight details TBA and subject to change)

3:10pm Arrival to Quito Airport

3:30pm Meet your guide and transfer to lunch venue

3:45pm Lunch at a local restaurant

4:45pm Transfer to Quito’s colonial center

5:30pm Panoramic tour of Quito

7:00pm Transfer to your hotel

8:30pm Dinner at the hotel

Overnight at the Eurobuilding Airport Hotel or similar hotel

DAY 6

6:00am Breakfast at the hotel

12:00pm Check out time

TBA A transfer to the Quito International Airport will be arranged according to your flight details. Should you have a late flight, luggage storage is available at the hotel until your transfer.

Extra Nights:

• All extra nights booked through the cruise line are confirmed at the same hotel used on the LAST NIGHT of your program.

• When you book extra nights through the cruise line, you will be transferred to the airport per the flight details provided. Check-out time is 12:00pm (subject to change). Meals other than breakfast are on your own after Day 4 of your program.

Transfers: All guests booking their flights independently are required to ensure the cruise line has their most up to date flight details so that transfers to the airport can be arranged. If flight details are not received 14 days before your cruise start date, transfers will not be arranged.

Should you book any extra nights on your own or your flight is not on the last day of the program, transfers are not included.

Should you have a late departing flight you may wish to book an extra night so that you have occupation of your room until your departure. You will be asked to vacate your room by 12:00pm. Day rooms can only be purchased directly through the hotel.

Expected Weather:

The Galapagos Islands have a subtropical climate regulated by the cold Humboldt Current and the warm El Nino current. Weather varies during the year. From December until May temperatures range from the low 80°s (26 C°) to the high 90°s (32°) (with possibilities of rain). From June to September temperatures vary from the low 60°s (15 C°) to the high 70°s (21°). This is the garua season (mist in the mornings). From October until December temperatures range from the 70°s (15 C°) to the 80°s (26 C°) (dry season).

What to Bring:

It is not necessary to carry much to the Galapagos, pack light and pack smart. Lightweight, fast drying materials are recommended.

• Light loose pants, shorts, shirts (short and long sleeved)

• A windbreaker or light sweater for evening or early morning

• Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses

• Shoes: you will have dry landings (step directly from the dinghy onto dry land) and wet landings (wade to shore from the dinghy through shallow water). You can either bring one pair of “hybrid” shoes that are good for walking and getting wet (Keens are great; Chacos and Tevas work as well), or one set of footwear for getting wet (sandals or water shoes) and one pair to bring ashore in a backpack for hiking (light hikers or sneakers)

• Small backpack to carry on land visits for your camera and water

• Plastic bag to keep your camera or photographic equipment dry

• Snorkeling gear (not essential)

• On board the day trip boats, snorkeling gear will be available for all passengers. If you use a fin size smaller than 6-7 or larger than 10-11, please bring your own as these sizes may not be available.

• Wetsuit (not essential)

• Any required medications and seasick tablets if you are prone to motion sickness on boats

• Binoculars

• Insect repellent

Local Currency:

Ecuador’s local currency is US Dollars

Electricity

Ecuador uses 110 volt,60 cycle electricity, same as in the USA. Plugs are typically the 2-pronged flat type so US travelers will not typically need a converter or adapter. In case needed, hotels can provide adaptors.

Luggage information

Flight Lima to Quito - Guests can check in free of charge 1 suitcase with a maximum weight 50 lbs (23 kg). Each guest is also permitted free of charge one carry-on bag with a maximum of 15 lbs (7 kg). For this reason, a second piece of checked luggage per person (per maximum weight listed above) is included in the cost of this program. Should guests need to check in more than 2 pieces or have any overweight luggage on the flight, they will need to pay the airline fees at the airport upon check in.

Flights Quito – Galapagos – Quito - Guests can only check in free of charge one suitcase with a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23 kg). Each guest is also permitted free of charge one carry-on bag with a maximum of 15 lbs (7 kg). Any excess luggage will be stored free of charge in Quito. Guests checking in more than one suitcase or an overweight bag on the flight will need to pay excess or overweight luggage fees at the airport upon check in.

The average cost is approximately $120 USD per extra suitcase and an additional $120 USD for an overweight bag. Fees are imposed by the airline and are subject to change.

Make sure all luggage has your name on it and don’t forget to bring with you to the Galapagos any documents, medications and valuables.

Carriage of Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines on internal flights per airline regulations (subject to change as each airline has their own regulations)

1. Guests must obtain a Doctor’s Certificate mentioning their medical condition and the need to carry this equipment with them on their flights.

2. The certificate should have attached a picture of the equipment with its description/specifications especially with regards to the type of batteries used (lithium/dry or any other type)

3. These documents need to be sent to the Land Program Team via the Reservations Team at least one month prior to travel so that our local operator can begin the notification process with the airline(s).

4. Failure to comply with the above regulations may result in a denial of this equipment at the airport for which the cruise line nor our local ground operator be responsible for.

Documents and Visa Requirements:

Please note that passport holders are responsible for obtaining the required documentation applicable for entry. Passports must be valid for at least six (6) months after completion of your journey and should also have sufficient blank pages for visas and immigrations stamps. Guests should check with their local Embassy for any Visa stipulations for their nationality and ensure that proper documentation is obtained if necessary.

VERY IMPORTANT: The name on your cruise booking, passport and any visas if required, must all be exactly the same for flight ticket purchase for this program otherwise guests may be denied travel by flight. Please ensure that all documents are identical in spelling to the names provided for your cruise reservation including first, middle and last name. Manifests generated by the cruise line must match your travel documents.

Failure to have the required documents ahead of time or incorrect names on flight tickets will result in either denial of travel or ticket re-purchase and guests will be responsible for any fees incurred.

Aircraft type (subject to change):

To / From Galapagos - Airbus A319

To / From Lima – Airbus A319

Accommodations:

Ikala Hotel

Thomas de Berlanga 110 y, Puerto Ayora, Ecuador

Phone: (954) 495-4979

EB Hotel by Eurobuilding Airport Quito

Calle 24 de Septiembre S2-389 Conector Alpachaca, Quito 170907, Ecuador

Phone: +593 2-394-1020

*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required, they will be of equal ratings and standards and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure, then you will be staying at the hotels listed in this program.

Program Includes for guests:

• 3 nights at the Ikala Hotel (Standard Double Room)

• 2 nights at the Eurobuilding Hotel in Quito (Standard Double Room)

• All meals per the itinerary - 1 soft drink and 2 alcoholic beverages per person at lunch and dinner

• Transportation with air-conditioning

• Transfers

• English-speaking guides

• Airport assistance in Quito and Lima

• Galapagos Naturalist Guide (provided by the Galapagos National Park) to accompany and guide the guests in the Galapagos Islands

• 1 x 250 ml bottle of water per person on each transfer on the mainland

• Touring and entrances per the itinerary

• Galapagos National Park taxes and entrance fees

• Porterage

• Economy class flights per the itinerary (direct flights not guaranteed)

• One additional piece of checked luggage (max 50 lbs / 23 kg) per person on the flight from Lima to Quito

Please Note: Guests booking their own flights (independent of the cruise line) are responsible for ensuring that the cruise line has the updated departure information, so your transfer can be arranged. If you book additional nights independently of the cruise line, a departure transfer is not provided. If we do not receive flight details a minimum of 14 days in advance, transfers will not be provided.

Program Excludes for guests:

• Any meals or beverages not listed in the itinerary

• All items of a personal nature, such as telephone calls, laundry & curio shop purchases

• Gratuities to drivers and guides

• Hotel incidentals including mini bar and room service

• Overweight or excess luggage fees

• Visa fees if required

Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.

Please note: All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Land Programs must be purchased no later than 60 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 60 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty. There are no refunds for unused portions of any program.

More Details
Prices are per person, based on double occupancy and subject to availability.