Day 1

Arrive in Guayaquil and transfer to hotel.

Transfer to your hotel in the Pacific port of Guayaquil, Ecuador’s second city. Vibrant seaport and powerhouse behind the Ecuadorian economy, Guayaquil still has something of the edgy rawness born from its isolation. But the city is rapidly growing, being upgraded and renovated. You might visit the newly refurbished malecón (promenade) which stretches for 2km along the fast flowing Río Guayas and has an exuberant and bustling atmosphere.  

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Day 2

Guided city tour of Guayaquil.

Vibrant seaport and powerhouse behind the Ecuadorian economy, Guayaquil still has something of the edgy rawness born from its isolation. But the city is rapidly growing, being upgraded and renovated.

On your guided city tour you will stroll along the newly refurbished malecón (promenade) which stretches for 2km along the fast flowing Río Guayas and has an exuberant and bustling atmosphere.

You visit Parque Seminario, locally known as Iguana Park, where you will have an opportunity to see these lugubrious creatures living peacefully in a busy urban environment. Continue to the Guayas river waterfront on to Santa Ana Hill, where the city was born. This picturesque neighbourhood has small wooden houses painted in bright colours and the best views of the city. The historical park includes a reconstruction of the urban life of Guayaquil during the 19th and early 20th centuries, including the city’s fashions and the manufacture of sweets, tobacco and other products derived from local agricultural activities.

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Day 3

Fly to the Galápagos Islands and embark MV Cachalote Explorer 1 for your cruise.

Transfer to the airport for your flight to the Galápagos Islands (2 hrs). Embark on the MV Cachalote Explorer for your 8 day cruise around the archipelago. Once you’ve paid your national entrance fee (currently $US100 but under revision), your naturalist guide will be waiting to take you to the quayside.

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Days 4-9

Land excursions from the cruise around the Galápagos Islands.

The Galápagos Islands emerged in the Pacific Ocean six million years ago following a spate of volcanic activity and, isolated from the continental mainland, have become home to unique animal and plant species.

The islands were the inspiration for Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution, which formed the basis for his revolutionary book ‘The Origin of the Species’, published in 1859. Without fear of humans, they are sufficiently trusting to allow you to approach them and observe them up close.

Although geologically constantly on the move, these islands remain suspended in time, with giant tortoises, iguanas, penguins, frigate birds, waved albatross and blue-footed boobies and a wealth of rare flora all thriving there. For many, the fascinating and unique wildlife and natural beauty of the islands are matched by the thrill of being at sea. Find a spot on deck as you make your way through the ocean, often trailed by flocks of birds and playful dolphins.

The itinerary for your days in the Galápagos will depend on your date of departure and is subject to change. There are normally two landings a day to seek out the different types of wildlife which inhabit the islands.

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Day 10

Fly to Guayaquil, connect with international flight home.

Disembark and fly back to Guayaquil for your international flight home. 

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