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GALAPAGOS ISLANDS WILDLIFE ADVENTUREHiking * Superb Wildlife Viewing * Expert Naturalist |
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This is an animal lover's dream come true! Your exploration of the "Land of Darwin" will be aboard a comfortable custom yacht with an experienced captain and crew. Aboard the yacht, your comfort and well being are the first concerns of the captain and crew. The tidy staterooms are made-up each day and each has a private bathroom with shower. There are lounging areas onboard to relax. Meals are plentiful and are prepared on the yacht from fresh ingredients. Most dietary requirements can be accommodated with advanced notice. Our Galapagos cruises accommodate a wide variety of tastes and budgets. We offer a variety of boats to choose from ranging from luxury yachts to economy class boats. Besides the services of a trained naturalist, some yachts have options for sea kayaking and SCUBA diving. This is truly a once in a lifetime natural history adventure done in relaxed elegance and style!
THIS IS A SAMPLE ITINERARY AND MAY NOT BE THE EXACT ONE YOUR YACHT WILL FOLLOW. ITINERARIES MAY BE MODIFIED BY THE NATIONAL PARK, BUT YOU WILL ALWAYS VISIT A DIVERSE SELECTION OF ISLANDS. DAY
1: Depart from your home city and fly to Quito, Ecuador. Transfer
from airport to hotel in Quito. DAY 2: Transfer from hotel to Quito airport for flight to the Galapagos Island of Baltra. Arrival time will be at 11:00am Galapagos time. You will be met at the airport and taken by bus for a 10-minute ride to the harbor to board our yacht. After lunch you will visit North Seymour Island where the largest colony of Magnificent Frigate Birds is found. Also inhabiting this island are the famous Blue Footed Boobies and Swallow Tailed Gulls. DAY
3: On this day you will venture onto Plazas and Santa Fe islands.
Formed by uplifted lava and covered with Opuntia cacti, it is here we
will find Land Iguanas, DAY 4: You will explore one of the most famous islands in the Galapagos, the island of Hood, also known as Espanola. The visitor is offered quite a display of wildlife including Marine Iguanas with copper red patches, Swallow Tailed Gulls, the endemic Long Billed Mocking Bird, Masked and Blue Footed Boobies, Finches, Oyster Catchers, Sea Lions, Lava Lizards and the fascinating Waved Albatross with a 7 1/2 foot wingspan. DAY
5: Snorkeling is on the agenda when you set foot on the island
of Floreana. You'll swim and snorkel at Devil's Crown, a submerged volcanic
cone. Later you will also snorkel at Post Office Bay where you may leave
a letter like the whalers did in the 18th century in the old wooden barrel
mailbox. DAY 6: The Charles Darwin Research Station and the Visitor Center of the Galapagos Islands National Park are our destinations in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island. At the research station you can walk among several species of Galapagos Tortoises. You'll also take time to visit the highlands of Santa Cruz where Miconia bushes, Scalesia and inactive volcanic cones are found. There are more endemic plants on Santa Cruz than on any other island in the Galapagos. DAY 7: On the island of Rabida, you will explore volcanic rocks covered by Opuntia cacti and Palo Santo trees. Sea Lions abound here on the red sand beaches. Several species of Darwin's Finches may be seen here as well as Flamingos. At Puerto Egas on Santiago Island you will see Galapagos Fur Seals in tide pools cut into lava cliffs. There are opportunities to spot the Galapagos Hawk, the Galapagos Dove and the Vermilion Flycatcher. Behind what is known as Espumilla Beach are salt-water lagoons where Flamingos and White Cheeked Pintail Ducks are found. DAY
8: Today you will venture onto Bartolome Island and Sullivan
Bay. DAY 9: In the early morning you will explore Turtle Cove before departing from the island of Baltra. Flights leave Baltra at 11:30 a.m. to Quito, Ecuador. The afternoon is on your own to further explore Quito. DAY 10: Depart Ecuador for flight home, OR EXTEND YOUR STAY WITH AN ADDITIONAL ADVENTURE IN SOUTH AMERICA! SOUTH AMERICA TOUR EXTENSIONS: THIS IS A SAMPLE ITINERARY AND MAY NOT BE THE EXACT ONE YOUR YACHT WILL FOLLOW. ITINERARIES MAY BE MODIFIED BY THE NATIONAL PARK, BUT YOU WILL ALWAYS VISIT A DIVERSE SELECTION OF ISLANDS.
Tour Price: Prices vary depending upon the number of nights on the boat and your choice of boat (economy - luxury) from $2,000/pp - $3,600/pp. If you are single and willing to share a cabin on the yacht with another single traveler of the same sex you will not be charged a single supplement fee. If you would prefer a room to yourself, the single supplement fee is $65 for the hotel and $500-$800 for the yacht). Three and four night tours are also available on some of the boats. Group size: Tours can be arranged for singles, couples, families and groups. Tour
cost includes: Tour
cost does not include:
AIRLINE RESERVATIONS: American Airlines, Continental, Delta, and US Air all have international flights from the United States to Quito, Ecuador. We recommend checking at Orbitz.com. WEATHER: We are often asked, “When is the best time to go to the Galapagos?” The Galapagos Islands have a sub-tropical climate with two seasons, the Warm Season and the Cool Season. The average yearly rainfall is only 10 inches and March, the wettest month, averages only two inches. The Warm Season, November to June, has sunny skies, a few showers, highs of 80-88º F and lows of 68-74º F. Water temperature is a comfortable 75º F. March and April are two of the best months with warm temperatures, light winds and calm seas. The Cool Season is July through November. The skies can be cloudy, but it seldom rains, and the wind can make the water choppy. Expect highs of 74-78º F and lows of 62-66º F. with water temperatures 66-72º F. August and September are the least popular months with their lack of sun, cool temperatures and rough seas. November can be one of the best months because visitation is low and the weather is quite nice. HOW IS THE FOOD? The food is great and there is bottled water available on the yacht. Meals are a combination of the best of American and Ecuadorian traditional cuisine prepared with fresh local ingredients. There is plenty of fresh fish, chicken, beef, fresh fruits, vegetables and salads. Vegetarian and other dietary restrictions can easily be accommodated. LANGUAGE: It is not necessary to be able to speak Spanish to get along in Ecuador or the Galapagos Islands, but it can be lots of fun, and our Ecuadorian crew can always help you with the finer points of the language. A small dictionary and some creative sign language should get you to the start of the trip without too much trouble. Most people at the airport, hotels and restaurants do speak English.
FILM WARNING FROM TSA: Equipment used for screening checked and carry-on baggage WILL DAMAGE UNDEVELOPED FILM. Make sure to REMOVE IT AND HAVE IT HAND INSPECTED. To expedite the screening process, carry all film in clear canisters or take the film out of solid colored canisters and put it in a clear plastic ziploc bag. DIGITAL CAMERAS AND DIGITAL MEDIA ARE NOT AFFECTED. See the TSA website for complete details - http://www.tsa.gov PASSPORT: U.S. and Canadian citizens must have a current undamaged Passport to enter Costa Rica. You do not need to have a VISA. MONEY: The currency in Ecuador is the U.S. Dollar. Please be sure to bring new, untorn bills. Traveler's checks are a safe way of carrying money and may be exchanged at the airport in Ecuador. Credit cards are accepted only at limited locations in Quito and are not accepted on the yachts. You will need $100 U.S. cash for the National Park entrance fee upon landing on Baltra Island in the Galapagos. WHAT ABOUT TIPPING? We suggest 10% for good service in restaurants and a small amount for baggage and taxi workers. For the Galapagos staff (usually 8 people) we suggest 5% of the trip cost, which will be divided among the staff. WHAT EXPENSES ARE NOT COVERED? You will need money for airport transfers, restaurant meals in Quito and any shopping you do in Quito or in the Galapagos Islands. On the yacht you will need to pay for alcoholic beverages, soft drinks and gratuities for the crew. U.S. dollars or U.S. traveler's checks may be used on the yacht, but credit cards are not accepted. IMMUNIZATIONS: For all travelers, we suggest keeping your tetanus immunization up to date (every 10 years), and we suggest a Hepatitis A immunization, too. You can check your state health department, the CDC Center for Disease Control or the online traveler’s data base http://www.mdtravelhealth.com for the most current information. STAYING HEALTHY: Check with your doctor so see if any of your current medications lower your immunity. Airplane flights, different cities or your neighbor’s kids could all be a source of germs, and no one wants to be sick on vacation! To keep yourself healthy WASH YOUR HANDS. We also recommend carrying a small hand sanitizer in your pack and using it. THE SECRET TO STRESS FREE TRAVEL: Simply put, arrive at the starting point of your trip a day or two early. Many have told us this was one of the most important things they did to get ready for their trip. They felt rested and more acquainted with the customs and pace of life of their new surroundings. ADDITIONAL HOTEL LODGING: Contact our office and we will make additional hotel reservations for you in Quito. If you would like to extend your stay in Ecuador, we will also be able to arrange tours to the highlands and jungle. TRAVEL DELAYS: Nichols Expeditions is not responsible for any costs you may incur due to travel delays or other contingencies we are unable to control. For international flights, arrive at least 2-3 hours prior to departure (check with your air carrier for their requirements) and allow ample time between connecting flights. If you miss your flight and you need a special shuttle to meet up with the group, you will be responsible for the cost. TRAVEL INSURANCE: To protect you against life's uncertainties, we have a Travel Insurance Policy that protects you against tour cancellation, trip interruption and medical emergencies along with baggage benefits. WE HIGHLY RECOMMEND TRAVEL INSURANCE! SUGGESTED READINGS FOR THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS Beak
of the Finch, Jonathan Weiner, Random House SUGGESTED SUPPLIERS
OF OUTDOOR GEAR:
Daytime temperatures in Quito are moderate and evenings can be cool. Temperatures in the Galapagos are moderate to warm and there is always a chance of a rain shower. In Quito, visitors will feel more comfortable wearing long pants rather than shorts. In the Galapagos, dress is casual and shorts and t-shirts are fine, but for those who are extremely sun sensitive, long clothing may be a good idea. DOCUMENTS: CLOTHING AND PERSONAL ITEMS: OPTIONAL:
TRAVEL
SUGGESTIONS: PACKING SUGGESTIONS: Travel light and bring only the items on the equipment list. Limit your luggage to 2 bags. We suggest the following: one carry-on size duffel for your clothing, and one small personal bag (a small daypack or shoulder bag) for irreplaceable essentials. Make sure to check with your air carrier for allowable baggage size and restricted items. If you bring a suitcase to Ecuador, please also bring a duffel bag. Your suitcase can be left at the hotel in Quito and you can use your duffel for your air flight to the Galapagos. Your charter flight to the Galapagos limits baggage to 1-piece weighing no more than 44 lbs (20kg) and one small carry on. Packing Hint #1: Freezer-weight Ziploc plastic bags are lightweight, inexpensive, and see-through. They are indispensable for packing items like books, toilet kits and cameras, and to prevent spilled liquids & creams in your baggage. Packing Hint #2: Travel-size samples save space and weight! Visit the "samples section" of your drugstore or supermarket and see if your favorite shampoo, conditioner, hand lotion, toothpaste and deodorant are available in travel-size samples. Remember to plastic bag all lotions. Packing Hint #3: Think multiple use items like zip-off leg convertible pants for hiking shorts, quick dry shorts double as a swimsuit, and a large bandana can be used for a towel. Be creative and keep your luggage light! RESERVATIONS: For complete reservation information click here. Galapagos Islands Outdoor Adventures | Galapagos Island Blue Footed Boobies |
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Nichols
Expeditions 497 North Main Street, Moab, Utah 84532 phone: 800-648-8488, fax: 435-259-2312 email: info@NicholExpeditions.com |
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coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos archipelago is made up of 19 islands, and it has the distinction of being Ecuador’s first National Park. To honor its unique and diverse qualities, it was also declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve. The Galapagos Islands have a vast array of easily observed wildlife, and each island has well maintained nature trails that allow you to peacefully walk among and photograph the animals. This is an animal lover's dream come true! 
During the night your yacht cruises to a different island, sets anchor and you will awaken to a new adventure. Each island is unique. Some have moon-like volcanic landscapes while others are lined with perfect beaches. Once on land, your shipboard naturalist will lead a hike on the island’s nature trail and introduce you to the amazing animals, plants and geological features. During the week you will see blue-footed boobies, frigate birds, sea lions, marine and land iguanas, giant tortoises, penguins, flamingos and albatross. With mask and snorkel, the underwater world comes alive with sea turtles and colorful fish. The wildlife viewing is fabulous, and this will be a week of National Geographic images! 
Sea
Lions, Swallow Tailed Gulls, Red Billed Tropic Birds and Audubon's Shearwaters.
Flamingos
and other species of shore birds call Floreana Island home.
It
is here that the geological history of the archipelago is best portrayed.
The most impressive volcanic, moon-like scenery may be viewed from the
top of Bartolome.
Tour
Dates: 7-10 Days; Year around departures available. Additional destinations may be added in Ecuador or Peru. 
ARE
CHARTER TRIPS AVAILABLE? Yes, you bring the people and we'll take care of all the details! Charters may be arranged for groups up to 22 people. Call us to schedule your next trip 800-648-8488. We can customize the trip suit your requests. 
WHAT ARE THE YACHTS LIKE? The yachts in the Galapagos vary in size and the amenities they offer, but all have a good safety record and experienced crews. Most of our yachts accommodate 16 passengers in 8 double cabins, and each cabin has a private bathroom with shower. Each yacht has a well stocked library of nature books and there are indoor and outdoor areas to relax. Travel to the next island destination is usually done at night to maximize your daytime opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing and snorkeling. You do not need any previous boating experience to join the tour.
CAMERA GEAR: Whether you shoot a digital or film camera, bring more media storage cards or film than you think you need! A portable hard drive may be the answer for digital storage. Other useful items are plenty of extra batteries, lens cleaner, lens tissue, lens brush, a mini tabletop tripod and a clean toothbrush to remove grit from your camera. A waterproof camera case is a good idea, too. Photo
Credit: Sandi Cok. (Sandi received an
honorable mention in the Central Washington Photo Contest for her "Sally
Lightfoot Crab" photo.)