Road Scholar educational adventures are created by Elderhostel, Inc., the not-for-profit world leader in lifelong learning since 1975.


Call (800) 454-5768

Monday-Friday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST


Create an account                             Forgot your password?

Log In via Facebook

Log in to see all you can do with your online Road Scholar account.

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS / ECUADOR / PERU

Adventures Afloat: Discovering Machu Picchu and the Galapagos

Select a Date

 

SIGN UP

and receive your

FREE E-NEWSLETTER

&

E-Photo Book:



Top 10 Learning Experiences Around the World

Find A Program

Search By:

Location

 Peru

Interest

 Adventure Afloat Study Cruise

Price Range

 $5000 - $7500

Start Date

End Date

More Options
Search

AnyInternationalSt. BartsUnited StatesCanadaAfghanistanAlbaniaAlgeriaAmerican SamoaAngolaAnguillaAntarcticaAntigua and BarbudaArgentinaArmeniaArubaAustraliaAustriaAzerbaijanBahamasBahrainBangladeshBarbadosBelarusBelgiumBelizeBeninBermudaBhutanBoliviaBosnia and HerzegovinaBotswanaBrazilBritish Virgin IslandsBruneiBulgariaBurundiCambodiaCameroonCanary IslandsCape VerdeCayman IslandsCentral African RepublicChileChinaColombiaComorosCongoCook IslandsCosta RicaCroatiaCubaCuracaoCyprusCzech RepublicDenmarkDjiboutiDominicaDominican RepublicEaster IslandEcuadorEgyptEnglandEquatorial GuineaEritreaEstoniaEthiopiaFalkland IslandsFaroe IslandsFederated States of MicronesiaFijiFinlandFranceFrance Southern TerritoriesFrench GuianaFrench PolynesiaFrench West IndiesGabonGalapagos IslandsGambiaGeorgiaGermanyGhanaGibraltarGreeceGreenlandGrenadaGuadeloupeGuamGuatemalaGuernsey IslandGuineaGuinea-BissauGuyanaHaitiHeard and Mc Donald IslandsHoly See (Vatican City State)HondurasHong KongHungaryIcelandIndiaIndonesiaIranIrelandIsraelItalyIvory CoastJamaicaJapanJersey IslandJordanKazakhstanKenyaKoreaKosovoKuwaitKyrgyzstanLaosLatviaLebanonLiberiaLibyaLiechtensteinLithuaniaLuxembourgMacedoniaMadagascarMadeira IslandsMalawiMalaysiaMaldivesMaliMaltaMartiniqueMauritaniaMauritiusMayotteMexicoMidway IslandMoldovaMonacoMongoliaMontenegroMontserratMoroccoMozambiqueMyanmarNamibiaNepalNetherlandsNew CaledoniaNew ZealandNicaraguaNigerNigeriaNiueNorthern Mariana IslandsNorwayOmanPacific IslandsPakistanPalauPanamaPapua New GuineaParaguayPeruPhilippinesPolandPortugalPuerto RicoQatarReunionRomaniaRussia (Siberia)Russian FederationSaint HelenaSamoaSao Tome and PrincipeSaudi ArabiaScotlandSenegalSerbiaSeychellesShetland IslandsSierra LeoneSingaporeSlovakiaSloveniaSolomon IslandsSouth AfricaSouth Georgia and the South Sandwich IslandsSpainSri LankaSt Kitts and NevisSt. Eustatius (Statia)St. LuciaSt. Pierre & MiquelonSt. Vincent and the GrenadinesSurinamSurinameSwazilandSwedenSwitzerlandSyriaTaiwanTajikistanTanzaniaTasmaniaThailandTibetTogoTongaTrinidad and TobagoTristan da CunhaTunisiaTurkeyTurkmenistanTurks and CaicosUS Virgin IslandsUgandaUkraineUnited Arab EmiratesUnited KingdomUruguayUzbekistanVanuatuVenezuelaVietnamWalesYemenZambiaZimbabwe
Road Scholar
Program #20974RJ

Enroll Here
Add to Your Wishlist

15 Days | 14 Nights
ACTIVITY LEVEL: Moderately Challenging
Print
Print
Details
 Email
Email
 Videos
Videos
 Pictures
Photos
Just fill in the information below and click the submit button to send this program to a friend.

* indicates a required field

*Your name:  
*Your Email Address:
 
 
*Your Friend's Email Address:
 
 
Message:


Close [ x ]
 
We’re always developing educational adventures that open windows to new places and probe fascinating topics. Check out our latest creations.
See all of our New programs.
Close [ x ]
 
Love to learn in a small-group setting? This collection of programs has at most 10-24 participants.
See our Small Group programs.
Close [ x ]
 
EasyFor people looking to exercise their minds more than their bodies. There’s minimal walking and not too many stairs.
ModerateThese programs get you on your feet and include activities such as walking up to a mile in a day through a city and standing in a museum for a few hours.
ActiveFor people who enjoy walking as much as two miles a day, perhaps to explore historic neighborhoods or a nature trail.
Moderately ChallengingFor hardy explorers who enjoy a good physical challenge, spending most of their days on the go.
ChallengingGet ready to keep up with our highest-energy group. These demanding — and rewarding — programs are for seasoned outdoor enthusiasts.

Program Details > Daily Schedule

Elevation Note
Cusco Peru is located at 11,152 ft (3,399 meters) above sea level.

 Equipment Requirements
Binoculars are highly recommended. Snorkeling equipment will be provided, but participants may want to bring their own.

Itinerary for Oct 6 — Oct 20, 2013

Expand all
Day One: Sunday, October 06 - US Departures 
Depart From: Flights depart the US for Cusco, Peru

Close [ x ]
Type: Three-Star Hotel

 Description: Hotel Inkallpa is surrounded by mountains and silence; it gives you the feeling of being very far away from civilization. Running through the green fields is a small river with fountains and waterfalls. If you come at the right time the fruit trees are in bloom and you can pick your very own fresh peaches, raspberries and few other fruit that grow on the property. At the end of your day you can return to the hotel and we recommended you request a message before returning to your room and enjoying the beautiful sunset that falls over Sacred Valley with a glass of wine. Situated only 20 minutes from the Ollantaytambo train station, from here you can take the train that leaves to Machupicchu.

Ship Information: n/a

Contact info:
Cuarto Paradero del Centro Poblado
Cuarto Paradero del Centro Poblado
Urubamba, Peru
phone: +5112754103
web: www.hotel-inkallpa.com

Room amenities: Balcony, Electric Razor Plug-in, Hair dryer - in room, Room Safe, Sofa/Lounge Chairs, Table Lamp, Telephone - Local Only, Toiletries, Wardrobe, Welcome Drink, Bathroom-Private: Shower only Description: All rooms are spacious and are equipped with a king-size bed or two twin beds. The rooms on the second floor have a wooden floor and a balcony, where the rooms on the first floor are carpeted and have a terrace

Facility amenities: Facilities: * Internet available onsite * Laundry Service available * Meeting Room * Indoor Spa Facilites * Meditation centre Services: * Arrival/departure point transfers (Extra charge) * Daily Housekeeping * Cultural Orientation Recreation: * Board/Leisure Games * Cultural Visits/Tours * Massage Languages Spoken: * English * Spanish

Smoking policy: Yes
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Day Two: Monday, October 07 - Arrive in Cuzco, Peru 
Morning: Flights arrive in Cuzco, via Lima, Peru. Transfer 1.5 hours to the Sacred Valley.

Lunch: Lunch will be served upon arrival

Afternoon: Unpack your belongings and relax before meeting your Study Leader for the program orientation

Dinner: Welcome dinner at the hotel

Lodging: Inkallpa Valle Sagrado

Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
Close [ x ]
Type: Three-Star Hotel

 Description: Hotel Inkallpa is surrounded by mountains and silence; it gives you the feeling of being very far away from civilization. Running through the green fields is a small river with fountains and waterfalls. If you come at the right time the fruit trees are in bloom and you can pick your very own fresh peaches, raspberries and few other fruit that grow on the property. At the end of your day you can return to the hotel and we recommended you request a message before returning to your room and enjoying the beautiful sunset that falls over Sacred Valley with a glass of wine. Situated only 20 minutes from the Ollantaytambo train station, from here you can take the train that leaves to Machupicchu.

Ship Information: n/a

Contact info:
Cuarto Paradero del Centro Poblado
Cuarto Paradero del Centro Poblado
Urubamba, Peru
phone: +5112754103
web: www.hotel-inkallpa.com

Room amenities: Balcony, Electric Razor Plug-in, Hair dryer - in room, Room Safe, Sofa/Lounge Chairs, Table Lamp, Telephone - Local Only, Toiletries, Wardrobe, Welcome Drink, Bathroom-Private: Shower only Description: All rooms are spacious and are equipped with a king-size bed or two twin beds. The rooms on the second floor have a wooden floor and a balcony, where the rooms on the first floor are carpeted and have a terrace

Facility amenities: Facilities: * Internet available onsite * Laundry Service available * Meeting Room * Indoor Spa Facilites * Meditation centre Services: * Arrival/departure point transfers (Extra charge) * Daily Housekeeping * Cultural Orientation Recreation: * Board/Leisure Games * Cultural Visits/Tours * Massage Languages Spoken: * English * Spanish

Smoking policy: Yes
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Day Three: Tuesday, October 08 - Sacred Valley 
Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel

Morning: Lecture at the hotel with Professor Jean Jacque Decoster: The Rise and Fall of the Incan Empire.

Lunch: Lunch at a local restaurant

Afternoon: Visit Ollantaytambo fortress, one of the few Incan sites that was not built over by the Spanish, maintaining it's original layout. Learn about the history of Ollantaytambo as the site of one of the greatest Inca victories against the Spanish. The site, which overlooks the historic community of Ollantaytambo itself, was predominately a temple.

Dinner: Dinner at the hotel

Lodging: Inkallpa Valle Sagrado

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Close [ x ]
Type: Full Service Hotel

 Description: Perfectly convenient: under the colonial arcades of stately Plaza Regocijo & around the corner from Cusco’s beautiful Plaza de Armas. Guests of this hotel can’t get much closer to the restaurants, bars, and shops that mark the Plaza de Armas of Cusco. The hotel is a 10-minute taxi ride from the Cusco airport and 5-minute taxi from Cusco’s train & bus stations.

Contact info:
Portal E Spinar 142
Cusco, Peru
phone: +51 84 23 1733
web: www.casa-andina.com/peru/hotels/cusco-hotels/classic-cusco-plaza/hotel.php

Room amenities: In room safe, cable TV, Free high speed wi-fi internet access, direct dial telephone, hairdryer

Facility amenities: Restaurant, oxygen available upon request at the reception desk, free high-speed Wi-Fi Internet access throughout hotel,small Internet Centers with free high-speed Internet access, ATM machine, laundry service, foreign currency exchange,

Smoking policy: Yes
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Day Four: Wednesday, October 09 - Sacred Valley / Train to Machu Picchu / Cusco 
Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel

Morning: This morning board the train for Machu Picchu. Visit Machu Picchu, the most iconic site of the Inca World, and a great renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site. With your guide, visit this ancient ceremonial city, explore the agricultural and urban sides of Machu Picchu and learn the history of the Incan abandonment of the city and its construction during Spanish conquest in the sixteenth century.

Lunch: Lunch at Sanctuary Lodge

Afternoon: Take the afternoon train from Aguas Calientes to Cusco. Transfer to the hotel in Cusco.

Dinner: Dinner at the hotel

Lodging: Casa Andina Classic-Cusco Plaza

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Close [ x ]
Type: Full Service Hotel

 Description: Perfectly convenient: under the colonial arcades of stately Plaza Regocijo & around the corner from Cusco’s beautiful Plaza de Armas. Guests of this hotel can’t get much closer to the restaurants, bars, and shops that mark the Plaza de Armas of Cusco. The hotel is a 10-minute taxi ride from the Cusco airport and 5-minute taxi from Cusco’s train & bus stations.

Contact info:
Portal E Spinar 142
Cusco, Peru
phone: +51 84 23 1733
web: www.casa-andina.com/peru/hotels/cusco-hotels/classic-cusco-plaza/hotel.php

Room amenities: In room safe, cable TV, Free high speed wi-fi internet access, direct dial telephone, hairdryer

Facility amenities: Restaurant, oxygen available upon request at the reception desk, free high-speed Wi-Fi Internet access throughout hotel,small Internet Centers with free high-speed Internet access, ATM machine, laundry service, foreign currency exchange,

Smoking policy: Yes
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Day Five: Thursday, October 10 - Cusco 
Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel

Morning: Walk the Plaza de Armas of Cusco- the capital city of the Incas and now itself a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Observe the layers of history where colonial architecture rests atop Incan foundations.

Lunch: Lunch at a local restaurant

Afternoon: Visit above the city the ruins of Sacsayhuaman (a steep 15 minute walk from the Plaza- taxis are available). Large stones seamlessly built into walls and terraces provide views of the valley to the Southeast and once formed a protective fortress guarding the city.

Dinner: Dinner at the hotel

Lodging: Casa Andina Classic-Cusco Plaza

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Close [ x ]
Type: Hotel

 Description: Elegance, comfort, security and personalized service are just some of the characteristics that make Hilton Colón Guayaquil, a real five-star city resort hotel. The splendid building is located only five minutes away from José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport and dominates the city's new booming commercial and financial zone in Ecuador. Our hotel is surrounded by the main shopping centers and offers easy access to the downtown district area.

Contact info:
Av. Francisco de Orellana Mz. 111,
Guayaquil, Ecuador
phone: +593-4-2689000
Room amenities: All of our rooms have A/C with individual control, plasma TVs with cable system, modern work area with three phone sets, answer machine, broadband and wireless internet, hair dryer, mini bar, safe, soundproof windows, sprinklers and smoke detectors.

Facility amenities: 294 fully renovated rooms Five restaurants and two bars Room service available 24-hours Business center Refurbished meeting rooms, congress, and convention facilities with capacity up to 1800 people Renovated outdoor pool and fitness area with a health spa

Smoking policy: Yes
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Day Six: Friday, October 11 - Cusco / Fly to Guayaquil, Ecuador 
Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel

Morning: Early morning transfer to the airport for flights to Guayaquil, Ecuador

Lunch: Lunch at the hotel

Afternoon: Free afternoon to relax.

Lodging: Hilton Colon Guayaquil

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Close [ x ]
Type: Cruise Ship

 Description: Don’t let her accommodating public and private spaces, the posh quiet and rich collection of books in her Library, or the lavish observation space on her decks fool you — the National Geographic Endeavour is an expedition ship, designed for discovery and active exploration, not just passing-by. The National Geographic Endeavour heads out equipped with a fleet of Zodiacs, enabling us to make landfall in all the remote and riveting locations that beckon! We offer kayaking opportunities wherever possible and frequent walks or hikes. We can set a pace for more demanding walkers and simultaneously provide a rewarding experience for strollers, too. There’s no age limit to our adventurous opportunities — anyone who feels fit and is interested is welcome to participate. And because navigation is an underlying theme, our “Open Bridge” policy will provide you with one of the more gratifying memories of the many you’ll make. The spontaneity and flexibility that characterizes our expedition style means there is literally something new to experience and enjoy daily.

Ship Information: Registry: Ecuador Public Areas: Ship is fully air-conditioned. Covered deck with chairs and tables; Doctor's Office; Fitness Center; Global Gallery; LEXspa; Library; Lounge with full-service bar and facilities for films, slide shows and presentations; Sauna and small Swimming Pool. Capacity: 96 guests Meals: Served in single seatings with unassigned tables for an informal atmosphere and easy mingling. Menu is international with Ecuadorian flair. Cabins: All cabins face outside with windows or portholes. Each has private facilities and climate controls. Expedition Equipment: Glass-bottom boat, hydrophone, kayaks, snorkeling gear, Splash-Cam, underwater video camera, video microscope, and Zodiac landing craft. Special Features: Guest internet access and laundry service. A ship's doctor, Undersea Specialist, and Video Chronicler are also onboard. Wellness: The vessel is staffed by a Wellness Specialist and features an outdoor stretching area and a floating massage platform.

Contact info:
N/A
N/a, Ecuador
phone: + n/a
Smoking policy: Yes
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Day Seven: Saturday, October 12 - Fly Guayaquil to the Galapagos Islands / Board the National... 
Fly Guayaquil to the Galapagos Islands / Board the National Geographic Endeavour

Note: The exact routing for this cruise will depend upon the National Park Service of the Galapagos and local conditions. The published itinerary is a representation of a typical Galapagos itinerary, however the order of the islands visited may vary.

Breakfast: Early breakfast at the hotel.

Morning: After breakfast at the hotel this morning, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to the Galapagos Islands. Upon your arrival, you will immediately embark the National Geographic Endeavour. Your airline tickets for the flights between Ecuador and the Galápagos are issued in Ecuador. PLEASE NOTE: Please remember that on the flight between Guayaquil and Galápagos, your checked luggage may be weighed and cannot exceed 40 pounds (per person). This regulation is not always enforced, but you should be prepared. You may leave behind excess luggage at the Hotel Hilton Colon in Guayaquil. You can collect this luggage when you return to Guayaquil at the end of the voyage

Lunch: Lunch on board the ship.

Afternoon: You will have time for lunch and to settle into your cabins before arriving at your first stop, Cerro Brujo. You may choose to swim or snorkel from the lovely white sand beach, enjoy the first kayaking opportunity of the expedition or just stroll along the shore looking for marine iguanas and sea lions.

Dinner: Dinner on board the ship.

Lodging: National Geographic Endeavour

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Close [ x ]
Type: Cruise Ship

 Description: Don’t let her accommodating public and private spaces, the posh quiet and rich collection of books in her Library, or the lavish observation space on her decks fool you — the National Geographic Endeavour is an expedition ship, designed for discovery and active exploration, not just passing-by. The National Geographic Endeavour heads out equipped with a fleet of Zodiacs, enabling us to make landfall in all the remote and riveting locations that beckon! We offer kayaking opportunities wherever possible and frequent walks or hikes. We can set a pace for more demanding walkers and simultaneously provide a rewarding experience for strollers, too. There’s no age limit to our adventurous opportunities — anyone who feels fit and is interested is welcome to participate. And because navigation is an underlying theme, our “Open Bridge” policy will provide you with one of the more gratifying memories of the many you’ll make. The spontaneity and flexibility that characterizes our expedition style means there is literally something new to experience and enjoy daily.

Ship Information: Registry: Ecuador Public Areas: Ship is fully air-conditioned. Covered deck with chairs and tables; Doctor's Office; Fitness Center; Global Gallery; LEXspa; Library; Lounge with full-service bar and facilities for films, slide shows and presentations; Sauna and small Swimming Pool. Capacity: 96 guests Meals: Served in single seatings with unassigned tables for an informal atmosphere and easy mingling. Menu is international with Ecuadorian flair. Cabins: All cabins face outside with windows or portholes. Each has private facilities and climate controls. Expedition Equipment: Glass-bottom boat, hydrophone, kayaks, snorkeling gear, Splash-Cam, underwater video camera, video microscope, and Zodiac landing craft. Special Features: Guest internet access and laundry service. A ship's doctor, Undersea Specialist, and Video Chronicler are also onboard. Wellness: The vessel is staffed by a Wellness Specialist and features an outdoor stretching area and a floating massage platform.

Contact info:
N/A
N/a, Ecuador
phone: + n/a
Smoking policy: Yes
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Day Eight: Sunday, October 13 - Galapagos Islands: Espanola 
Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship.

Morning: Although the itinerary is fixed, the activities in the Galapagos will be kept flexible, allowing you to take the best advantage of your time in the region. The following stops are planned for your voyage: Today you are scheduled to stop and Explore ESPANOLA: Española is home to Darwin’s finches, Hood mockingbirds, and blue-footed boobies. You’ll also see Española marine iguanas, which develop vivid green and red coloration from their food, coastal seaweed that blooms in iguana-mating season.

Lunch: Lunch on board the ship.

Afternoon: Galapagos Islands exploration continues.

Dinner: Dinner on board the ship.

Lodging: National Geographic Endeavour

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Close [ x ]
Type: Cruise Ship

 Description: Don’t let her accommodating public and private spaces, the posh quiet and rich collection of books in her Library, or the lavish observation space on her decks fool you — the National Geographic Endeavour is an expedition ship, designed for discovery and active exploration, not just passing-by. The National Geographic Endeavour heads out equipped with a fleet of Zodiacs, enabling us to make landfall in all the remote and riveting locations that beckon! We offer kayaking opportunities wherever possible and frequent walks or hikes. We can set a pace for more demanding walkers and simultaneously provide a rewarding experience for strollers, too. There’s no age limit to our adventurous opportunities — anyone who feels fit and is interested is welcome to participate. And because navigation is an underlying theme, our “Open Bridge” policy will provide you with one of the more gratifying memories of the many you’ll make. The spontaneity and flexibility that characterizes our expedition style means there is literally something new to experience and enjoy daily.

Ship Information: Registry: Ecuador Public Areas: Ship is fully air-conditioned. Covered deck with chairs and tables; Doctor's Office; Fitness Center; Global Gallery; LEXspa; Library; Lounge with full-service bar and facilities for films, slide shows and presentations; Sauna and small Swimming Pool. Capacity: 96 guests Meals: Served in single seatings with unassigned tables for an informal atmosphere and easy mingling. Menu is international with Ecuadorian flair. Cabins: All cabins face outside with windows or portholes. Each has private facilities and climate controls. Expedition Equipment: Glass-bottom boat, hydrophone, kayaks, snorkeling gear, Splash-Cam, underwater video camera, video microscope, and Zodiac landing craft. Special Features: Guest internet access and laundry service. A ship's doctor, Undersea Specialist, and Video Chronicler are also onboard. Wellness: The vessel is staffed by a Wellness Specialist and features an outdoor stretching area and a floating massage platform.

Contact info:
N/A
N/a, Ecuador
phone: + n/a
Smoking policy: Yes
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Day Nine: Monday, October 14 - Galapagos Islands: Floreana 
Breakfast: Brakfast on board the ship.

Morning: Although the itinerary is fixed, the activities in the Galapagos will be kept flexible, allowing you to take the best advantage of your time in the region. The following stops are planned for your voyage: Today you are scheduled to explore FLOREANA: Floreana's Champion Islet, just off the eastern shore of Floreana, is a wonderful snorkeling site and home to a large colony of sea lions. You may hike to a pristine white-sand beach, a favorite nesting site for sea turtles. You can take a zodiac ride to Post Office Bay – tradition states that if you find a letter there addressed to your hometown, you must take it home with you and hand-deliver it to its recipient.

Lunch: Lunch on board the ship.

Afternoon: Galapagos Islands exploration continues.

Dinner: Dinner on board the ship.

Lodging: National Geographic Endeavour

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Close [ x ]
Type: Cruise Ship

 Description: Don’t let her accommodating public and private spaces, the posh quiet and rich collection of books in her Library, or the lavish observation space on her decks fool you — the National Geographic Endeavour is an expedition ship, designed for discovery and active exploration, not just passing-by. The National Geographic Endeavour heads out equipped with a fleet of Zodiacs, enabling us to make landfall in all the remote and riveting locations that beckon! We offer kayaking opportunities wherever possible and frequent walks or hikes. We can set a pace for more demanding walkers and simultaneously provide a rewarding experience for strollers, too. There’s no age limit to our adventurous opportunities — anyone who feels fit and is interested is welcome to participate. And because navigation is an underlying theme, our “Open Bridge” policy will provide you with one of the more gratifying memories of the many you’ll make. The spontaneity and flexibility that characterizes our expedition style means there is literally something new to experience and enjoy daily.

Ship Information: Registry: Ecuador Public Areas: Ship is fully air-conditioned. Covered deck with chairs and tables; Doctor's Office; Fitness Center; Global Gallery; LEXspa; Library; Lounge with full-service bar and facilities for films, slide shows and presentations; Sauna and small Swimming Pool. Capacity: 96 guests Meals: Served in single seatings with unassigned tables for an informal atmosphere and easy mingling. Menu is international with Ecuadorian flair. Cabins: All cabins face outside with windows or portholes. Each has private facilities and climate controls. Expedition Equipment: Glass-bottom boat, hydrophone, kayaks, snorkeling gear, Splash-Cam, underwater video camera, video microscope, and Zodiac landing craft. Special Features: Guest internet access and laundry service. A ship's doctor, Undersea Specialist, and Video Chronicler are also onboard. Wellness: The vessel is staffed by a Wellness Specialist and features an outdoor stretching area and a floating massage platform.

Contact info:
N/A
N/a, Ecuador
phone: + n/a
Smoking policy: Yes
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Day Ten: Tuesday, October 15 - Galapagos Islands: Santa Cruz 
Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship.

Morning: Although the itinerary is fixed, the activities in the Galapagos will be kept flexible, allowing you to take the best advantage of your time in the region. The following stops are planned for your voyage: Today you are scheduled to explore Santa Cruz: Santa Cruz is home to the Charles Darwin Research Station and a highly successful captive breeding program for endangered species of Galápagos giant tortoises and land iguanas. You’ll learn about the science and conservation work undertaken in the islands. Later, you’ll travel into the lush highlands where wild tortoises forage, to explore some very different ecosystems to those encountered in the lowlands

Lunch: Lunch on board the ship.

Afternoon: Galapagos Islands exploration continues.

Dinner: Dinner on board the ship.

Lodging: National Geographic Endeavour

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Close [ x ]
Type: Cruise Ship

 Description: Don’t let her accommodating public and private spaces, the posh quiet and rich collection of books in her Library, or the lavish observation space on her decks fool you — the National Geographic Endeavour is an expedition ship, designed for discovery and active exploration, not just passing-by. The National Geographic Endeavour heads out equipped with a fleet of Zodiacs, enabling us to make landfall in all the remote and riveting locations that beckon! We offer kayaking opportunities wherever possible and frequent walks or hikes. We can set a pace for more demanding walkers and simultaneously provide a rewarding experience for strollers, too. There’s no age limit to our adventurous opportunities — anyone who feels fit and is interested is welcome to participate. And because navigation is an underlying theme, our “Open Bridge” policy will provide you with one of the more gratifying memories of the many you’ll make. The spontaneity and flexibility that characterizes our expedition style means there is literally something new to experience and enjoy daily.

Ship Information: Registry: Ecuador Public Areas: Ship is fully air-conditioned. Covered deck with chairs and tables; Doctor's Office; Fitness Center; Global Gallery; LEXspa; Library; Lounge with full-service bar and facilities for films, slide shows and presentations; Sauna and small Swimming Pool. Capacity: 96 guests Meals: Served in single seatings with unassigned tables for an informal atmosphere and easy mingling. Menu is international with Ecuadorian flair. Cabins: All cabins face outside with windows or portholes. Each has private facilities and climate controls. Expedition Equipment: Glass-bottom boat, hydrophone, kayaks, snorkeling gear, Splash-Cam, underwater video camera, video microscope, and Zodiac landing craft. Special Features: Guest internet access and laundry service. A ship's doctor, Undersea Specialist, and Video Chronicler are also onboard. Wellness: The vessel is staffed by a Wellness Specialist and features an outdoor stretching area and a floating massage platform.

Contact info:
N/A
N/a, Ecuador
phone: + n/a
Smoking policy: Yes
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Day Eleven: Wednesday, October 16 - Galapagos Islands: Dragon Hill and Guy Fawkes/El Eden and Daphne... 
Galapagos Islands: Dragon Hill and Guy Fawkes/El Eden and Daphne Major

Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship.

Morning: Although the itinerary is fixed, the activities in the Galapagos will be kept flexible, allowing you to take the best advantage of your time in the region. The following stops are planned for your voyage: Today you are scheduled to explore SANTA CRUZ: Today you will hike through giant cactus and incense tree forests to reach Dragon Hill, the habitat of the colorful Santa Cruz land iguanas that have been brought back from the brink of extinction. Later you will have the opportunity to snorkel along the steep, invertebrate-coated walls of the islets of Guy Fawkes. You will learn about the ground-breaking research of scientists Peter and Rosemary Grant into Natural Selection among the finches of Daphne Major as the ship circumnavigates the famous islet.

Lunch: Lunch on board the ship.

Afternoon: Continue Santa Cruz exploration.

Dinner: Dinner on board the ship.

Lodging: National Geographic Endeavour

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Close [ x ]
Type: Cruise Ship

 Description: Don’t let her accommodating public and private spaces, the posh quiet and rich collection of books in her Library, or the lavish observation space on her decks fool you — the National Geographic Endeavour is an expedition ship, designed for discovery and active exploration, not just passing-by. The National Geographic Endeavour heads out equipped with a fleet of Zodiacs, enabling us to make landfall in all the remote and riveting locations that beckon! We offer kayaking opportunities wherever possible and frequent walks or hikes. We can set a pace for more demanding walkers and simultaneously provide a rewarding experience for strollers, too. There’s no age limit to our adventurous opportunities — anyone who feels fit and is interested is welcome to participate. And because navigation is an underlying theme, our “Open Bridge” policy will provide you with one of the more gratifying memories of the many you’ll make. The spontaneity and flexibility that characterizes our expedition style means there is literally something new to experience and enjoy daily.

Ship Information: Registry: Ecuador Public Areas: Ship is fully air-conditioned. Covered deck with chairs and tables; Doctor's Office; Fitness Center; Global Gallery; LEXspa; Library; Lounge with full-service bar and facilities for films, slide shows and presentations; Sauna and small Swimming Pool. Capacity: 96 guests Meals: Served in single seatings with unassigned tables for an informal atmosphere and easy mingling. Menu is international with Ecuadorian flair. Cabins: All cabins face outside with windows or portholes. Each has private facilities and climate controls. Expedition Equipment: Glass-bottom boat, hydrophone, kayaks, snorkeling gear, Splash-Cam, underwater video camera, video microscope, and Zodiac landing craft. Special Features: Guest internet access and laundry service. A ship's doctor, Undersea Specialist, and Video Chronicler are also onboard. Wellness: The vessel is staffed by a Wellness Specialist and features an outdoor stretching area and a floating massage platform.

Contact info:
N/A
N/a, Ecuador
phone: + n/a
Smoking policy: Yes
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Day Twelve: Thursday, October 17 - Galapagos Islands: Bartolome and Santiago 
Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship

Morning: Although the itinerary is fixed, the activities in the Galapagos will be kept flexible, allowing you to take the best advantage of our time in the region. The following stops are planned for your voyage: In the morning you are scheduled to stop in BARTOLOME: This morning you will visit Bartolomé, an enchanting landscape where lava, mangroves and golden sand converge. You will have the opportunity for an early morning hike to the summit of the cone, with stunning views of the famous Pinnacle Rock and the surrounding volcanic landscape. Later in the morning, you will enjoy some wonderful snorkeling from the beach, where you might encounter sea lions, small reef sharks and even Galápagos penguins

Lunch: Lunch on board the ship.

Afternoon: In the afternoon you will continue to explore some of the small islets just off the coast of Santiago Island, this time a small volcano called “Sombrero Chino”, due to its resemblance to a Chinese hat. The stark lava flows form tubes and caves that are an important nesting area for Galápagos penguins, and the waters bathing the shore are rich in fish life. Options include time ashore, deep-water snorkeling and Zodiac rides to take in the other-worldly landscapes

Dinner: Dinner on board the ship.

Lodging: National Geographic Endeavour

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Close [ x ]
Type: Cruise Ship

 Description: Don’t let her accommodating public and private spaces, the posh quiet and rich collection of books in her Library, or the lavish observation space on her decks fool you — the National Geographic Endeavour is an expedition ship, designed for discovery and active exploration, not just passing-by. The National Geographic Endeavour heads out equipped with a fleet of Zodiacs, enabling us to make landfall in all the remote and riveting locations that beckon! We offer kayaking opportunities wherever possible and frequent walks or hikes. We can set a pace for more demanding walkers and simultaneously provide a rewarding experience for strollers, too. There’s no age limit to our adventurous opportunities — anyone who feels fit and is interested is welcome to participate. And because navigation is an underlying theme, our “Open Bridge” policy will provide you with one of the more gratifying memories of the many you’ll make. The spontaneity and flexibility that characterizes our expedition style means there is literally something new to experience and enjoy daily.

Ship Information: Registry: Ecuador Public Areas: Ship is fully air-conditioned. Covered deck with chairs and tables; Doctor's Office; Fitness Center; Global Gallery; LEXspa; Library; Lounge with full-service bar and facilities for films, slide shows and presentations; Sauna and small Swimming Pool. Capacity: 96 guests Meals: Served in single seatings with unassigned tables for an informal atmosphere and easy mingling. Menu is international with Ecuadorian flair. Cabins: All cabins face outside with windows or portholes. Each has private facilities and climate controls. Expedition Equipment: Glass-bottom boat, hydrophone, kayaks, snorkeling gear, Splash-Cam, underwater video camera, video microscope, and Zodiac landing craft. Special Features: Guest internet access and laundry service. A ship's doctor, Undersea Specialist, and Video Chronicler are also onboard. Wellness: The vessel is staffed by a Wellness Specialist and features an outdoor stretching area and a floating massage platform.

Contact info:
N/A
N/a, Ecuador
phone: + n/a
Smoking policy: Yes
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Day Thirteen: Friday, October 18 - Galapagos Islands: Genovesa 
Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship.

Morning: Although the itinerary is fixed, the activities in the Galapagos will be kept flexible, allowing you to take the best advantage of your time in the region. The following stops are planned for your voyage: This morning you are scheduled to stop and explore GENOVESA: On our last full day in the enchanted islands we visit Genovesa Island, the crown jewel of the archipelago. The National Geographic Endeavour sails into the caldera of Genovesa, known as “bird island”, where you’ll enjoy hikes among nesting colonies of swallow-tailed gulls, frigate birds, red-footed and Nazca boobies all while keeping a look out for hunting short-eared owls. You’ll ride Zodiacs and kayak along the base of the caldera wall, and snorkel among large schools of parrot fish and other tropical species.

Lunch: Lunch on board the ship.

Afternoon: This afternoon continue your Galapagos Islands exploration of Genovesa Island

Dinner: Dinner on board the ship.

Lodging: National Geographic Endeavour

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day Fourteen: Saturday, October 19 - Galapagos/ Departures 
Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship.

Morning: Morning transfer from the ship to the airport in Baltra for return flights to North America

Meals Included: Breakfast
Day Fifteen: Sunday, October 20 - Flights Arrive in the U.S. 
Morning: Flights arrive in the U.S. from Ecuador

Enroll Here

Important information about your itinerary:
Please know that while we do everything we can to finalize all aspects of our programs well in advance, there are logistics that occasionally must be altered. Our website will reflect the most recent information, and we are committed to providing you with final program details no later than eight weeks prior to the start of programs outside the U.S. and three weeks prior to the start of programs within the U.S. If you ever have questions about your program, please don't hesitate to contact us and we will be happy to assist you.
Currently selected:Prices Starting At:
Oct 6 — Oct 20, 2013 $7199  
Click Here to See Special Offer!
Special Offer: Free round-trip air from Miami is included in the program price. Please note free airfare may be limited.

Our Value Promise To You

You won't find a better value.

Included
at no additional cost on this date ...
•12 nights of accommodations
•35 meals: 12 breakfasts, 12 lunches, 11 dinners
•1 Expert-led lectures
•9 Field trips
•1 Flights during the program
Click here to learn more

Ratings

Not yet rated
Close [ x ]
 
Ratings are determined by participant evaluations.

Reviews

Back to Back Adventures

The Galapagos and Peru: From Enchanted Islands to the Lost City of the IncasDate: Sep 18, 2013
Click here to see options

Support Lifelong Learning

Our educational adventures are made possible by donors like you

Please support lifelong learning here
We've got you covered Road Scholar Travel Assistance Plan included in the price of our programs
Protect Your Program Investment Road Scholar Trip Cancellation, Interruption and Travel Delay Insurance
Registration & Policies
Click to learn more
Are you making your own travel arrangements? Click here
for important information
Don't miss a word
Enjoy the latest in hearing technology with listening devices on Road Scholar programs.

Need Help?

Call us toll free at 800-454-5768

Free Catalog | Refer a Friend | Gift Certificates | Press | Site Map | Privacy Policy | Careers | Contact Us

© Elderhostel, Inc. 2013
11 Avenue de Lafayette | Boston MA 02111 | Toll-Free 1-800-454-5768