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MSSantaCruzII - Guests

Galapagos Islands - Nature And Wildlife Expedition Cruise

Quito to Baltra Galápagos Baltra to Guayaquil 7 DAY EXPEDITION


Join us on a journey of ecological discovery as we set out from Quito, Ecuador, to experience the natural wonders of the incomparable Galápagos Islands 

Beautiful Quito and volcano adventure
Begin your adventure with two nights at a hotel in Quito, one of South America’s most charming capitals. This World Heritage city of graceful Spanish-era architecture is packed with cosy restaurants and small artisanal shops. From here we’ll journey to an active volcano and go on a nature walk in stunning surroundings, stopping to pay a visit to the Cotopaxi Interpretation Centre.

Darwin’s islands of evolution
The Galápagos Islands are famed for their association with the naturalist Charles Darwin. Our northern itinerary calls at Santiago, the adjacent islands of Rábida and Bartolomé, isolated Genovesa, and the centrally-located Santa Cruz. The landings take in a wide array of ecosystems, picturesque landscapes, and give great opportunities for seeing wildlife such as sea lions, turtles, marine iguanas, giant tortoises, flamingos, Nazca and Red-footed Boobies, and iconic Darwin’s Finches.

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    ITINERARY


    DAY 1
    Arrive in the city of eternal spring, get your bearings and relax after your journey.
    Your journey of discovery begins on the equator in the lush Andean foothills. At 9,350 ft, Quito is the second-highest capital city in the world, and its main draw is the exquisite Old Town which was founded on an ancient Inca settlement. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s packed with well-preserved colonial architecture, including colourful plazas, magnificent churches and handsome monuments.

    If you have enough time in the evening, make sure to visit the Calle La Ronda, an ancient pedestrianised street with links to the poets and artists who’ve lived here. It’s lined with shops and cafes, and there are many handicrafts available to buy.

    Pre-Programme
    Arrive in Quito a few days early and join us on a 4-day tour to Cloudforest Lodge in the Mashpi Reserve. The area is part of the Ecuadorian Choco rainforest, one of the world’s greatest biodiversity hotspots. This optional extension is also available as a Post-Programme.

    DAY 2
    Get a taste for Ecuador with a visit to a traditional market and a trip to Cotopaxi Volcano.
    Today you’ll visit Cotopaxi National Park, home to one of South America's most active volcanoes. But first, you’ll stop at Cotopaxi Interpretation Centre to learn about the history of its major eruptions as well as the local flora and fauna.

    Afterwards, we’ll walk to Limpiopungo Lagoon, tucked in a high valley within the Cotopaxi National Park at 12,800 ft above sea level. Spot herds of llamas on the slopes and keep your eyes open for birds such as the Andean Gull, several species of hummingbird and – with luck – the majestic Andean Condor. You’ll enjoy a tasty lunch prepared by some of the region’s best chefs before returning to your hotel in the late afternoon.

    DAY 3
    Fly away from the mainland to the Galápagos Islands and have your first wildlife encounter.
    After breakfast, a short flight will take you to Baltra Island in the spectacular Galápagos archipelago. A transfer brings you straight to the port where your comfortable expedition ship MS Santa Cruz II awaits.

    In the afternoon, we’ll land at Las Bachas beach located on the northern shore of Santa Cruz Island. This glorious white beach with turquoise waters is a great first place to spot iconic Galápagos wildlife like flamingos and sea turtles, and it’s named after some sunken barges left after WWII. Enjoy some swimming or snorkelling before heading back to the ship for a welcome cocktail and an expedition briefing about the following day.

    DAY 4
    Explore Santiago Island and see its wild residents and impressive rock formations.
    Today you’ll explore Santiago Island’s pristine beaches and picturesque landscapes. Take in the impressive cliffs of Buccaneer Cove on the northwest coast, home to a large number of marine birds and sea lions. Immerse yourself in the scenery through a range of water activities and marvel at fantastic rock formations such as ‘Elephant Rock’ and ‘The Bishop.’ 

    In the afternoon, we’ll head to Puerto Egas, one of the best visitor sites on the island. You’ll have the opportunity to see a colony of fur-sea lions and exotic birdlife on an excursion. Or you could just swim or snorkel along the rocky shorelines, typically, in the company of marine turtles.

    DAY 5
    See some amazing wildlife and beautiful landscapes, and try out the glass bottom boat.
    Your day starts on tiny Rábida Island, located off the southern shore of Santiago. You can go for a thrilling dinghy ride along the coast or join an excursion exploring the island’s mesmerising, red-coloured beach. Soak up the sights and sounds made by a colony of sea lions, and spot marine iguanas, mockingbirds, Yellow Warblers and several species of Darwin’s Finches. 

    In the afternoon, we’ll sail to the golden sands of Bartolomé Island, dominated by the imposing Pinnacle Rock. You can swim or snorkel off the beach here or discover colourful marine life from our glass-bottom boat, and spot Galápagos Penguins on the shore. Hike up to the summit of the island for fantastic views.

    DAY 6
    Start the morning with a climb to really see this paradise for birdlife.
    Today you’ll explore Genovesa Island. The morning starts with a steep but short climb – only 90 ft – up a flight of steps to reach a flat and rocky plateau. Once there, you can walk along comfortably and check out large colonies of Nazca Boobies, Red-footed Boobies, Great Frigatebirds and Storm Petrels. Afterwards or instead, hop into a kayak for some aquatic adventuring!

    In the afternoon, we’ll land at the beautiful beach that fringes Darwin Bay for a swim. Following this refreshing dip, take a stroll and observe hundreds of island birds, or alternatively just take it easy on the beach, swimming, snorkelling or kayaking.

    DAY 7
    It’s the end of your cruise, so enjoy a slow goodbye at the giant tortoise sanctuary.
    We start our last morning on the north shore of Santa Cruz Island. After breakfast, your luggage will be taken to the airport while you visit the Tortoise Reserve. A dry landing at a passenger’s wharf and a bus ride to the loftier region of the island will provide the last highlight of the cruise: giant tortoises in the wild. 

    The windward slopes of the island are home to two species of giant tortoise. These lush highlands include dense forests of Galápagos daisies, orchids and bromeliads, and several endemic land birds. After this visit we’ll transfer directly to Baltra Airport. Farewell to Galápagos.

    Post-Programmes  

    Explore more of Ecuador with one of our optional Post-Programmes. Join us as we travel to Napo River, in the heart of the Ecuadorian Amazon. Fly to Coca and spend three nights in a lodge surrounded by the beautiful rainforest and observe and learn about the flora and fauna on selected activities.   

    Or instead, travel from Quito to the Mashpi Reserve, a unique habitat and ecosystem. Here you’ll enjoy a 3-night stay in luxurious Cloudforest Lodge and discover this breathtaking area (also available as a Pre-Programme).  

    Both post-programmes have two nights in Quito included.

    (Click image to view Ship details)

    WHAT'S INCLUDED

    Hotel
    Two nights of hotel in Quito before the expedition cruise, including breakfast and dinner on day 2.

    Flights
    Roundtrip flights in economy class (from Quito to Baltra, and Baltra to Guayaquil).

    Transfers
    Transfer from the hotel in Quito to the Quito Airport before the expedition cruise, and transfers between the Baltra Airport and the ship

    Excursion
    Full-day nature tour to Cotopaxi National Park, including lunch

    Extras
    • Galápagos Islands National Park admission fee
    • Transit control card for Galápagos Islands
    • Access to the airport lounge at the Guayaquil or Quito airport upon return from Galápagos Islands

    Expedition Cruise
    • Expedition cruise in a cabin of your choice
    • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the Aune restaurant, including beverages (house beer and wine, sodas, and mineral water)
    • Complimentary tea and coffee
    • Limited complimentary Wi-Fi for suite guests. Wi-Fi is available for purchase, but be aware that we sail in remote areas with very limited connection. Streaming is not supported.
    • Complimentary reusable water bottle to fill at onboard water refill stations
    • English-speaking Expedition Team to guide activities and provide educational information, on board and?ashore?
    • Welcome and farewell cocktails

    Onboard activities
    • Use of the ship's Science Center, which has a library, microscopes, and samples
    • The Citizen Science program allows guests to contribute to current scientific research projects
    • An onboard professional photographer will give tips and tricks for taking the best landscape and wildlife photos
    • Use of the ship's hot tubs and gym

    Landing Activities
    Landings, hikes, coastal exploration, and activities that include kayaking, snorkeling, and our glass-bottom boat
    Complimentary wetsuit rental for suite guests. Wet suit rental available on request.

    Not Included In Your Expedition

    • International flights
    • Travel protection
    • Baggage handling
    Notes
    • All planned activities are subject to weather conditions
    • Excursions and activities are subject to change
    • Please ensure you can meet all entry and boarding requirements
    • No gratuities are expected on board
    • Washers and dryers are available on board for guest use

    Landings, hikes, coastal exploration, and activities that include kayaking, snorkeling, and our glass-bottom boat. Complimentary wet-suit rental for suite guests. Wet-suit rental available on request.

     

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