ECUADOR FEATURING THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS ITINERARY:
Day 1 — Miami, Florida
Arrive in Miami for an overnight stay, in preparation for an
early morning departure for Quito, Ecuador.
Day 2 — Quito, Ecuador and Otavalo
Arrive in Quito, a lovely city overlooking the green and
gray peaks of the Andes. Upon arrival, travel north to the
province of Imbabura, an enchanting region characterized by
lakes and farmlands. Here you will see tradition come to life as
local artisans create clay figurines and talk about their unique
art form. This evening, enjoy accommodations at a 300-year-old
Andean hacienda. These colonial estates hold an important place
in the history of Ecuador and offer warm hospitality and Old
World elegance to travelers from around the world. This evening,
an introductory lecture is followed by a welcome reception and
dinner. (B,D)
Day 3 — Otavalo and Andes Mountain Train
The breathtaking beauty of the Andes is on display today.
Begin your day with an unforgettable train ride through this
region's mountainous landscapes. On your descent from 7,220 feet
to 4,593 feet, view fertile valleys of fruit and sugar
plantations and typical Indian villages. Next, enjoy a
demonstration and tasting of "helado de paila," a local ice
cream specialty. Get to know some of the local people and
customs during a lunch followed by a folkloric show featuring
indigenous music and dance. Then watch local artisans create
high-quality apparel using traditional techniques. (B,L)
Day 4 — Otavalo and Quito
Take in the sights and sounds of the famous Otavalo Market
as you browse the colorful displays of woven yarns, blankets,
ponchos, panama hats, and much more. Later, travel through lush
valleys and breathtaking highlands to a rose plantation hacienda
for lunch and a tour. Surrounded by the colors and fragrance of
roses, you will learn about the varieties and production of one
of Ecuador's major exports. Return to Quito, a UNESCO World
Heritage site, this evening. (B,L)
Day 5 - Quito
Quito's mild climate and dramatic mountain landscapes make
it a pleasure to explore. Spend your morning touring the
charming colonial center where you will see the Presidential
Palace and 17th-century church of La Compania with its
breathtaking gilded altars. Next, visit the Equatorial Line
Monument and Museum where you will cross from one hemisphere
into another! The remainder of the day is at leisure so you can
experience this historic city on your own. (B,D)
Day 6 - Uito; Baltra Island, Galapagos; Embark ship;
Bartholome Island
Begin your adventure in the Galapagos today! A morning
flight takes you to beautiful Baltra Island, the gateway to the
Galapagos. Upon arrival you will enjoy lunch aboard the m/v
Galapagos Legend. This afternoon, disembark at Bartholome
Island, known for its spectacular volcanic formations. At the
summit of the island, enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding
islands and the famous eroded tuff cone of Pinnacle Rock. Hike
to the summit and view lava lizards, tequila, and various cacti
enroute. You will also have the opportunity to snorkel to see
Galapagos penguins, sea turtles, and white tipped sharks from a
safe distance! (B,L,D)
Day 7 - Isabela Island (Urbina Bay) and Fernandina Island
(Espinosa Point)
Explore Isabela Island where you will visit the incredible
fossil beach and coral area. Depending on the season, you may be
able to observe giant tortoises, land iguanas, and flightless
cormorants along the beach. After the nature walk, snorkel in
the warm waters of Urbina Bay. Sail on to wondrous Fernandina
Island, where you will see oversized marine iguanas mingling
with Sally Lightfoot crabs and sea lions sharing the beach with
Galapagos penguins. In addition to the diverse wildlife, look
for brachycereus cacti, dramatic lava formations, and vast
mangrove beds that extend into the sea. (B,L,D)
Day 8 — Santiago (Egas Port) and Rabida (Jervis)
Today you will explore Santiago, whose landscape is
characterized by tuff-stone layers and lava flows. Birdwatchers
will want to look out for hunting herons, great blue herons,
lava herons, yellow crowned night herons, and oyster catchers.
You may also see marine iguanas grazing on algae beds, fur seals
frolicking in deep pools of cool water, and coral-colored crabs
teetering along the rocky shore. Your next stop is the island of
Rabida, the geographic center of Galapagos, with the most
diverse volcanic rocks on the islands. The island's volcanic
beach is covered in dark red sand and sea lions. During your
exploration you will hike to the scenic salt water lagoon,
frequented by graceful flamingos. If you are visiting between
July and September, you are likely to see brown pelicans nesting
in the salty bushes. The eccentric boobies and nine species of
Darwin's finches can also be observed here. Cap off your day of
sightseeing stargazing from the deck—with no lights around to
spoil their splendor, the night sky is especially vivid. (B,L,D)
Day 9 - Santa Cruz (Charles Darwin Research Station) and
Santa Cruz (Highlands)
Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, a world-class
facility where international scientists conduct biological
research and conservation projects. See the famous giant
tortoises that are part of the station's breeding program.
Later, trek through the highlands of Santa Cruz to visit
breathtaking Cerro Chato, where you'll find more of the giant
tortoises that gave the islands their name. These gentle giants
are sure to impress you with their size and humble beauty.
Finally, you may choose to walk inside the dormant lava tubes
for an incredible glimpse into the turbulent formation of these
islands. (B,L,D)
Day 10 - Santa Cruz, Baltra Island, and Guayaquil
Today you will experience Bachas Beach, a stunning white
sand beach located on the north side of Santa Cruz Island. Among
the sand and surf, you're bound to find many of the sea birds,
marine iguanas, and sea turtles that make their home at Bachas
Beach. You'll also have the opportunity to take a dip in the
clear turquoise waters. Later, return to the Galapagos Legend to
check out and transfer back to Baltra's airport. Your afternoon
flight brings you to Guayaquil, Ecuador's largest city. (B,D)
Day 11 - Guayaquil and Miami, Florida
Known as the "Pearl of the Pacific," Guayaquil is a bustling
coastal community. Your city tour showcases the picturesque
waterfront area of Malecon 2000 and the 19th-century
neighborhood of Las Peas, with its colorful, Spanish-style
wooden houses. From Santa Ana Hill, enjoy magnificent views of
the city below and the chocolate-colored Guayas River. Later,
visit a historic theme park, created to preserve the culture and
customs of the Ecuadorian coastal region, including wildlife,
architecture, and traditions. After enjoying this last taste of
Ecuadorian culture, transfer to the airport for your flight home
to Miami. (B)
Day 12 - Miami and Tour Ends
Depart Miami with many memories of your Ecuadorian
adventure.
Back to SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS - Menu Page
