Road Scholar : Home
The Galapagos and Peru: From Enchanted Islands to the Lost City of the Incas

Program Number: 18484RJ
Start and End Dates:
10/3/2012 - 10/20/2012; 7/24/2013 - 8/9/2013; 8/9/2013 - 8/25/2013; 8/16/2013 - 9/1/2013; 9/18/2013 - 10/4/2013; 9/20/2013 - 10/6/2013; 10/16/2013 - 11/1/2013; 10/18/2013 - 11/3/2013; 10/30/2013 - 11/15/2013; 11/15/2013 - 12/1/2013; 11/22/2013 - 12/8/2013; 11/29/2013 - 12/15/2013; 12/6/2013 - 12/22/2013; 1/10/2014 - 1/26/2014; 1/17/2014 - 2/2/2014; 1/24/2014 - 2/9/2014; 2/7/2014 - 2/23/2014; 2/14/2014 - 3/2/2014; 2/21/2014 - 3/9/2014; 3/7/2014 - 3/23/2014; 3/14/2014 - 3/30/2014; 3/21/2014 - 4/6/2014;
Duration: 17 nights
Location: Galapagos Islands/Ecuador/Peru
Price starting at: $5,883.00 - Price may vary based on date, departure city
Program Type: Adventure Afloat Study Cruise; Small Ship Cruising Activity Level: t (see description)
Meals: 46; 17 Breakfasts, 16 Lunches, 13 Dinners    
Meal Options: Low Fat; Vegetarian; Low Salt    

Few other places inspire such wonder and awe as the Galápagos Islands and the Incan Lost City of Machu Picchu. Experience both of these destinations and more in an intimate group setting that allows for optimal time to learn from Road Scholar's acclaimed experts.




Activity Particulars

Wet and dry landings by small Zodiac boat. Island activities require 3-5 hours of physical activity per day. Elevations of 11,000 feet. Ascending and descending many steps at archaeological ruins.



Some program dates have been designed to connect with extension #20472 Tracing an Empire: Colca Canyon to Lake Titicaca. The extension can only be taken in conjunction with program #18484.



Itinerary At-a-Glance

Quito (Ecuador), 2 nights; aboard vessel, 7 nights; Guayaquil, 1 night; Yucay (Peru), 2 nights; Machu Picchu, 1 night; Cusco, 2 nights; Lima, 1 night.



Days 1-2:
Arrival Quito (Ecuador)

Discover the pre-Columbian and colonial heritage of Quito.
Lodging: Comfortable hotel.



Days 3-9:
Flight to Galápagos Islands / embark Yolita II, Galaven, or Tip Top III:

Sail from island to island to view the amazing biodiversity and rare species found only in this area. Look for sea lions and flamingos, observe a colony of the famous land iguanas, and learn about the endearing Galápagos Penguin. At the Charles Darwin Research Station, learn about the tortoise breeding project and observe giant tortoises from observation platforms. Swim and snorkel on the sandy beach of Darwin’s Bay, looking for sea turtles, sea lions, rays and a variety of colorful fish.
Lodging: Comfortable cabins aboard an expedition-sized yacht.



Days 10-13:
Flight to Guayaquil / flight to Cusco via Lima / coach to Yucay / train to Machu Picchu:

Journey to Peru, where you’ll ride through the Sacred Valley into the clouds of Peru’s Andes Mountains to discover Machu Picchu. With an expert, walk the ruins and discuss the spiritual and mystical significance of the ancient sites.
Lodging: Country lodge in Yucay; comfortable hotel near Machu Picchu.



Days 14-17:
Train and coach to Cusco, Flight to Lima, Departure

Explore the walled Inca complex of Sacsayhuaman and the historic city of Cusco.
Lodging: Comfortable hotels.



Yolita II

The Yolita II is a 114-foot, expedition-sized vessel that can accommodate 16 passengers in 10 cabins. Public areas include a dining room, common room, bar and sun deck. Single cabins have one bed, a porthole, and are located on the bottom deck.
Accommodations
Comfortable, centrally located hotels, selected to allow optimal access to surrounding areas. Rooms in Peru may seem smaller than expected. The Yolita II and the Tip Top III can carry up to 16 passengers and the Galaven I can carry up to 20 passengers. Each yacht has air-conditioned cabins with private baths.
Meals and Lodgings
   Ramada Airport Costa del Sol Hotel
  Lima, Peru 1 night
   Casa Andina Valle Sagrado
  Yucay, Peru 2 nights
   El Mapi Hotel
  Machu Picchu, Peru 1 night
   Casa Andina Private Collection – Cusco
  Cusco, Peru 2 nights
   Hotel Sheraton Quito
  Quito, Ecuador 3 nights
   Tip Top IV
  Galápagos Islands, Ecuador 7 nights
   Hotel Oro Verde
  Guayaquil, Ecuador 1 night
 Ramada Airport Costa del Sol Hotel
Type: Hotel
  Contact info: Av. Elmer Faucett s/n Aeropuerto
Internacional Jorge Chávez
Lima,   Peru
phone: +5117112000
web: www.costadelsolperu.com/lima/esp/index.php
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes

 Casa Andina Valle Sagrado
Type: Hotel
  Description: The hotel provides comfortable lodging in attractive, chalet-style accommodations with panoramic views of the Andes. Visitors will surely enjoy the many amenities available, including a full service Spa and a planetarium. Casa Andina Valle Sagrado's location, between Urubamba and Ollantaytambo, makes it a great starting point for local explorations within the valley.
  Ship Information: Not applicable.
  Contact info: 5to Paradero
Yanahuara,   Peru
phone: +5112139739
web: www.casa-andina.com
  Room amenities: The cozy rooms are decorated with local touches and feature white stone walls and wood-beam ceilings. All rooms have safety deposit boxes, coffee maker with supplies, and private bathrooms with tubs and hairdryers. Rooms have balconies or sitting areas that are perfect for enjoying views of the hotel gardens and the Sacred Valley.
  Facility amenities: Full-service Spa, planetarium and observatory, gourmet restaurant, bar, billiards/game room, TV lounge, meeting facilities and banquet room, free Wi-Fi Internet access, Internet centers, room service, gift shops, crafts exhibition/market featuring local artisans, laundry service, Globalnet ATM machine, taxi service (to Cusco & Valley points of interest), and 24 hr front desk.
  Smoking allowed: Yes

 El Mapi Hotel
Type: Hotel
  Description: Smart and contemporary are the defining elements of this hotel, amidst the commercial village of Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes). El MaPi (formerly Machu Picchu Inn) provides a wonderful location from which you can admire and interact with the quaint folksy town and get a different perspective
  Contact info: 109 Pachacutec Ave.
Machu Picchu Pueblo
Aguas Calientes,   Peru
phone: +51-84-211011
web: www.elmapihotel.com/
  Room amenities: Each room is equipped with blackout curtains, 100% cotton sheets, down duvets, hypoallergenic pillows, cotton bath robes, natural herbal amenities, 32" flat screen TVs, and tight-focus reading lights.
  Facility amenities: Luggage storage, 24/7 reception, bar, DirecTv, WiFi, turndown services, self guided fern walk, oxygen upon request, hot water pool, gift shop, and computer room.
  Smoking allowed: No

 Casa Andina Private Collection – Cusco
Type: Four-Star Hotel
  Description: This attractive Casa Andina property makes use of a converted 18th century colonial house. Guests can appreciate the authentic colonial flavor of the hotel, in keeping with Cusco's architectural style, without giving up on the advantages of modern amenities. Cusco's main plaza is 3 blocks away, within walking distance.
  Contact info: Plazoleta de Limacpampa Chico 473
Cusco,   Peru
phone: +51-84-232610
web: www.casa-andina.com
  Room amenities: Heating, cable television, safe deposit box, direct-dial telephone, coffee making facility and private bathroom with hairdryer. Oxygen available upon request.
  Facility amenities: Restaurant and bar, Wi-Fi Internet access, PC with internet access, laundry service, room service, medical assistance and currency exchange.
  Smoking allowed: Yes

 Hotel Sheraton Quito
Type: Hotel
  Description: The Sheraton Quito is situated in the city’s financial and commercial zone, with easy access to the airport.
  Contact info: Avenida Naciones Unidas y Republica de el Salvador
Quito,  000 Ecuador
phone: +593-2-2970002
web: www.starwoodhotels.com
  Room amenities: Air conditioning, coffee/tea maker, iron/ironing board, hair dryer, mini refrigerator, telephone, free newspaper, and cable TV.
  Facility amenities: Fitness and spa facilities, laundry/valet service, gift shop, florist, and meeting rooms.
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Elevators available: Yes

 Tip Top IV
Type: Cruise Ship
  Description: The Tip Top IV is a First Class Steel-hulled Motor Yacht, built in Guayaquil/Ecuador in 2006. The yacht can accommodate up to 16 guests in 10 comfortable outside cabins.
  Ship Information: The Tip Top IV is the flagship of the Tip Top fleet in the Galapagos Islands. The yacht measures 125 feet in length and has a 25-foot beam and 6-foot draft. The Tip Top IV sails at a cruising speed of 12 knots. Equipment includes: twin main engines, twin electric generators, twin Radars, Eco-sounders and GPS, reverse osmosis water maker, and required coastguard safety equipment.
  Contact info: 0000000000000
Galapagos Islands,   Ecuador
phone: +00000000000
web: www.rwittmer.com
  Room amenities: Each of the 10 cabins is fully carpeted and has two single lower berths (no bunks), small closet, porthole or window, and a private bathroom with hair dryer. Biodegradable soap and shampoo/conditioner are provided during the cruise.
  Facility amenities: Yacht amenities include a bar, lounge, dining area, and sun-deck. Smoking restricted to outer decks only. Snorkeling equipment (e.g., mask, snorkel, and fins) is provided as part of the cruise. Wetsuits and buoyancy vests are available for rent, but must be reserved prior to the cruise. Please contact the program provider at 1-800-866-7111 or roadscholarprograms@holbrooktravel.com if you would like to reserve a wetsuit for your program. Laundry service is not available on the yacht. In an effort to conserve water, the yacht might ask participants to refrain from hand washing clothing during the cruise. Participants will be able to hang bathing suits and wet clothing to dry on clotheslines on the top deck. Purified drinking water is provided free of charge on the yacht. Participants will be given reusable bottles to refill as needed at the water dispenser in the main lounge.
  Smoking allowed: No

 Hotel Oro Verde
Type: Hotel
  Description: Oro Verde Hotel Guayaquil is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World in Ecuador. Strategically located in the downtown commercial and banking heart of the city, only eight minutes from the José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport.
  Contact info: 9 de Octubre Street
Guayaquil,   Ecuador
phone: +593-4-2327999
web: www.oroverdehotels.com/gye
  Room amenities: Mini bar, radio, direct-dial telephone, safety deposit box, cable TV, broadband Internet connection, reading lights, remote control air conditioner, and hair dryer.
  Facility amenities: Restaurants, bar, delicatessen, 24 hr room service, a luxurious Club Floor, swimming pool, fitness center, laundry services, safety deposit boxes, meeting rooms, business center, casino, and shops.
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Elevators available: Yes
  Additional nights after: Subject to availability Please contact your program provider, Holbrook Travel, for additional information. Phone: 1-800-866-7111/Email: roadscholarprograms@holbrooktravel.com


Travel Details
  Start of Program:
All day arrivals at Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima, Peru. Hotel check-in begins at 3 p.m. You will be staying at Ramada Airport Costa del Sol Hotel that night.
  End of Program:
Departures from Guayaquil's international airport in Ecuador. Hotel check-out by 11 a.m. You will be staying at Hotel Oro Verde the night before.
  Required documents:
The Road Scholar Health & Safety Form is required.
  Parking availability:
N/A
Transportation (For Independent Travelers)
  Train or bus availability: N/A
To Start of Program
  Location:  Lima
  Nearest airport:  Jorge Chaves Lima Callo International Airport
  Transportation to site: The Hotel Costa del Sol Ramada - Lima is located directly across from the international airport's main terminal. The hotel is within easy walking distance and can be accessed via a pedestrian crossing. Taxi services are also available at the international airport (e.g., Taxis Green). Participants can hire a taxi and prepay in dollars at one of the taxi booths inside the secured section of the airport (after clearing Immigration/Customs).
  From End of Program
  Location:  Guayaquil
  Transportation from site: Taxi services are available at the hotel. Please ask for assistance at the hotel's front desk if you wish to hire a taxi.
Elevation Note: Cusco 11,000 ft/Chincheros 12,330 ft.
The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.


Daily Schedule

Day 1: Arrive to Lima.
(Wednesday, October 3)
   
 Arrive To: Arrive at the Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima, Peru.

Proceed through Immigrations, Baggage Claim and Customs before exiting the secured area of the airport. The Road Scholar representative will be waiting outside the exit door with a Road Scholar sign (only applies to Road Scholar group flights).

Transfer to the hotel, located across from the airport's main terminal, and check-in.
   
Accommodations: Ramada Airport Costa del Sol Hotel

Day 2: Sacred Valley -
Flight to Cusco via Lima and Transfer to the Sacred Valley/Introduction to Machu Picchu & Pisac Market.
(Thursday, October 4)
   
 Breakfast: Early breakfast at hotel.
 Morning: Transfer to the airport for morning flight to Cusco.

Arrive to Cusco.

Transfer to hotel in the Sacred Valley with en route visit to the Pisac Market.

The Pisac Market dates back to the ancient Peruvian days when people in the highlands depended on trade. The traditional produce market is held on Sundays, when natives come to trade vegetables, herbs and potatoes for other goods like matches, oranges and medicines. During other days of the week, the town hosts a handicrafts market where all nature of locally made crafts can be seen on display.

Arrive at the hotel and check-in.
 Lunch: Lunch at hotel.
 Afternoon: Enjoy some leisure time before your next program activity.

Lecture: Early evening tea with an expert on Machu Picchu who will discuss the spiritual and mystical significance of the ancient Inca sites.
 Dinner: Dinner at hotel.
   
Accommodations: Casa Andina Valle Sagrado
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Sacred Valley (Yucay) -
Chincheros Town & Ollantaytambo Ruins.
(Friday, October 5)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at hotel.
 Morning: Visit to Chincheros town including a visit to a weaving cooperative, where you will meet with locals and learn about the weaving styles and techniques.

Weaving is a way of life in Chincheros, as important for preserving ancient traditions as it is for earning a livelihood. Located in the Peruvian Andes on the Inca road between Cusco and Machu Picchu, Chincheros was an early Inca center built by emperor Tupa Inca as his country estate. During Inca reign, textiles were woven and offered to mark special occasions, from peace treaties and sacrifices to marriage ceremonies and puberty rites. In Chincheros, children grow up playing with their mother’s spindle and loom. By age six or seven, most children learn to weave by watching their elders. They begin by weaving jakimas, or narrow ribbons, before moving on to more complicated pieces.

Visit to local farms.
Lecture: The Agriculture of the Incas.
 Lunch: Lunch at local restaurant.
 Afternoon: Visit to Ollantaytambo Ruins accompanied by a guide who will highlight the engineering genius of the Inca.

The Ollantaytambo Ruins are not ruins in the traditional sense. Ollantaytambo is a town with original buildings of Inca construction where the Inca retreated to make their last stand in the highlands against the Spanish. Running water still flows through the town in aqueducts. The terraces above the town still are farmed. The pinnacle above the town is a small burial ground.

 Dinner: Dinner at hotel.
   
Accommodations: Casa Andina Valle Sagrado
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Machu Picchu (Aguas Calientes) –
Excursion to UNESCO World Heritage Site.
(Saturday, October 6)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at hotel.
 Morning: Train to Machu Picchu following the Urubamba River with spectacular views of the Andes.

Upon arrival, continue with a 20-minute bus transfer up the mountain to the Machu Picchu Ruins.
 Lunch: Lunch at local restaurant near the ruins.
 Afternoon: Full afternoon guided field trip in and around Machu Picchu Ruins.

This ancient Inca city was rediscovered in 1911 by Hiram Bingham, a Yale graduate and U.S. senator fascinated with Inca archaeology. Bingham found Machu Picchu, with the help of a local farmer who knew about the ruins, while searching for Vilcabamba and Vitcos. He hypothesized that the site was a "citadel," existing for strategic and defense purposes. He also speculated that the site was a refuge for Cusco's Virgins of the Sun, based upon the finding of skulls there, although not scientifically classified as female. Breakthroughs in archaeology since 1985 have, taken as a whole, supported the emerging view of Machu Picchu as a ceremonial and administrative center for a very populous region. Machu Picchu was built, flourished, and fell into demise within a period of 100 years.

Board the transfer bus and return to Aguas Calientes Town.

Walk to the hotel and settle into your accommodations.
 Dinner: Dinner on your own to explore local fare.
   
Accommodations: El Mapi Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5: Cusco -
Orientation to Aguas Calientes/Train and Bus to Cusco.
(Sunday, October 7)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at hotel.
 Morning: Guided excursion around the town of Aguas Calientes
Visit the local market.

Participants who wish to revisit Machu Picchu are welcome to skip the town excursion and spend the morning, on their own, at the ruins (tickets are an additional expense and must be purchased in advance). Please contact the Program Provider at 1-800-866-7111/roadscholarprograms@holbrooktravel.com for more information.
 Lunch: Lunch at hotel.
 Afternoon: Transfer to train station.

Early afternoon train to Ollantaytambo station.

Arrive at the Ollantaytambo station and board a bus for your transfer to Cusco.

Arrive in Cusco and check-in at the hotel.

Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to enjoy Cusco at your own pace.
 Dinner: Dinner on your own for a chance to explore local fare.
   
Accommodations: Casa Andina Private Collection – Cusco
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 6: Cusco -
Sacsayhuaman Ruins & Introduction to Cusco.
(Monday, October 8)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at hotel.
 Morning: Field trip to the Sacsayhuaman Ruins.

The fortress of Sacsayhuaman forms the head of the Puma design of old Cusco. It is a wonder of technical achievement and a testament to human will. It is a mystery how it was constructed, since the stones are not found in the region, and most of the blocks weigh more than a ton. The largest rock weighs more than 300 tons. Sacsayhuaman is constructed of huge polygonal blocks which interlock with one another. The stones are so precisely placed that a knife blade cannot be inserted between them.

Excursion through the city of Cusco.

The center of Cusco is a history lesson. Modern and colonial buildings are built on top of Inca foundations, and colonial churches dominate the central square.
 Lunch: Lunch at a café in the main plaza where you can enjoy the colonial architecture of the city.
 Afternoon: Afternoon at leisure.
Pre-dinner presentation by expert on the history of Inca and Andean musical instruments.
 Dinner: Dinner on your own for a chance to explore local fare.
   
Accommodations: Casa Andina Private Collection – Cusco
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 7: Quito -
Flight to Quito via Lima/Orientation & Lecture.
(Tuesday, October 9)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at hotel.
 Morning: Transfer to the airport for flight to Lima. Once in Lima, participants will be assisted in making their connection flight to Quito, Ecuador.
 Lunch: At the airport.
 Afternoon: Arrive in Quito, Ecuador and proceed through Immigrations, Baggage Claim and Customs before exiting the secured area of the airport. The Road Scholar representative will be waiting outside the exit door with a Road Scholar sign.

Transfer to the hotel and check-in.

Before dinner, enjoy a program orientation followed by a lecture. Lecture: The Past, Present and Future of Ecuador.
 Dinner: Dinner at hotel.
   
Accommodations: Hotel Sheraton Quito
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Quito –
City Excursion & Field Trip to the Equator.
(Wednesday, October 10)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at hotel.
 Morning: Travel towards the historic section of Quito and journey up to El Panecillo for panoramic views of the city.

Before the Spanish arrived, the hill known as El Panecillo (small bread roll) was used by the Inca for sun worshiping. In the early 1800s, the Spanish military took advantage of El Panecillo's strategic location and elevation (9,843 ft), and built a fortress to protect and monitor the city. In present times, the hill is the site of a city monument and lookout point where visitors can get 360° views of Quito. On clear days, it is even possible to spot Cotopaxi's snowy peak in the distance.

Return to the city for a walking exploration of Quito's colonial center. Visit the Independence Square with an informative explanation of the Presidential and Bishop Palace, as well as the Cathedral. Visit La Compañía church, one of the most beautiful churches in Quito, legendary for its gold covered interior. Visit the historic San Francisco church and convent, raised up above a wide stone paved court originally known as Tiangues, a place used by the indigenous inhabitants of Quito to trade products.
 Lunch: Lunch at local restaurant including an introduction to Ecuadorian food products and typical Ecuadorian cuisine.
 Afternoon: After lunch, we will leave Quito and travel in a northerly direction to visit the Museo Intiñan located on the Equator line, near the Middle of the World complex.

The Intiñan Museum has a permanent exposition that details the Andean cosmovision of Ecuador's ancestral cultures. Learn about the indigenous calendar and its accuracy. Visit an ancient home to find out about the way of life and traditions of indigenous people more than a century ago. Acquaint yourself with the important rituals of Amazonian tribes as you educate yourself about the cultures of Ecuador's Oriente region.
 Dinner: Dinner at local restaurant.
   
Accommodations: Hotel Sheraton Quito
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Quito -
Local Hacienda/Otavalo Market & Highlands.
(Thursday, October 11)
   
 Breakfast: Early morning departure from the hotel.

Enjoy breakfast at Hacienda La Compañia, built a century ago by the owners' ancestors. Take a moment to visit the property's extraordinary rose plantation and showroom, for a chance to admire and learn about the wide range of rose varieties grown in the area.
 Morning: Transfer to the highland town of Otavalo. Field trip to the Otavalo Market and site lecture.

The Otavalo Market is a famous market dating back to pre-Inca times where locals and visitors can buy or barter food, animals, basic necessities and crafts.

Otavaleños are well known for their superior weavings. Their crafts can be found at this market and are sold throughout stores in the country.
 Lunch: Lunch at local restaurant.
 Afternoon: Afternoon at leisure to enjoy more time at the market or explore the town.

Transfer back to Quito and return to the hotel.
 Dinner: Dinner at hotel.
   
Accommodations: Hotel Sheraton Quito
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Galápagos Islands -
Flight to Baltra Island/Board Yacht/
North Seymour Island.
(Friday, October 12)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.
 Morning: Transfer to the airport for flight to the Galápagos Islands.

Depart for the Galápagos Islands.

There is a 44-pound weight limit for checked luggage on the flights to the islands. Please pack accordingly.
 Lunch: Light lunch on flight.
 Afternoon: Arrive to Baltra Island.

Baltra Island hosts one of the two available airports in the Galápagos Islands. The other airport is located on San Cristobal Island.

Upon arrival you will be met by your naturalist guide and transferred to the yacht.

Board and set sail.
Enjoy an orientation and a light snack.

Sail to North Seymour for your first field trip in the islands.

Dry landing on North Seymour. Walk on sand and boulders during an exploration of the island's coastal and inland areas. North Seymour has one of the most active seabird breeding colonies in the archipelago, and is a great place to observe Blue-footed Boobies (nesting takes place from May to November) and Magnificent Frigatebirds. Other wildlife commonly spotted on this island include pelicans, sea lions, gulls, and marine iguanas.

Swimming and snorkeling opportunities.

Return to the yacht.

Note: Actual cruise itinerary and islands visited are always subject to change by the Galápagos National Park. Itineraries are not guaranteed.
 Dinner: Dinner onboard.
 Evening: Orientation to the next day’s activities.
   
Accommodations: Tip Top IV
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Galápagos Islands -
Genovesa Island (Darwin's Bay & El Barranco)
(Saturday, October 13)

Note: El Barranco (aka Prince Phillip's Steps) includes a steep staircase carved into the stone cliff. The stairs have handrails. Participants will need to ascend and descend the stairs in order to participate in the nature walk at this site.
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast onboard.
 Morning: Dry landing on Genovesa Island at Darwin’s Bay.

Genovesa is a great place for a bird watching walk plus optional swimming or snorkeling. The island's volcanic sea cliffs and salt bush offer a prime habitat for the birds of the Galápagos. Darwin Bay is the caldera of an extinct volcano which has been partially eroded and offers superb swimming and snorkeling.

Return to the yacht.
 Lunch: Lunch onboard.
 Afternoon: Visit El Barranco on the southern part of Darwin Bay, Genovesa Island.

The youngest area of the island, from a geological point of view, lies in this area. The cliffs located in the south are composed of very fragile lava. The natural erosion that has occurred in these lava flows has become the ideal place for nesting Storm Petrels.

Two species of petrels can be seen here, nesting in cavities and holes in the lava. One is the Wooden Petrel, which feed during the night, and the other is the endemic Galápagos Petrel that is active during the day.

During the panga rides along the cliffs, look for fur seals and several species of seabirds.

Return to the yacht.
 Dinner: Dinner onboard.
 Evening: Orientation to the next day's activities.
   
Accommodations: Tip Top IV
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12: Galápagos Islands –
Santiago Island (Puerto Egas, Espumilla Beach & Caleta Bucanero).
(Sunday, October 14)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast onboard.
 Morning: Wet landing at Puerto Egas.
Puerto Egas, located on James Bay on the western side of the island, has black volcanic formations that provide shelter to a number of creatures. Here you will see marine iguanas sunning themselves on the rocks while sea birds fly overhead in search of food. Brightly colored Sally Lightfoot crabs live in the rock crevices and tide pools; a sharp contrast to the black lava formations they call home. Galápagos fur seals enjoy the inlets along the western shoreline and have been known to swim with visitors from time to time.

Swimming and snorkeling opportunities.

Return to the yacht.
 Lunch: Lunch onboard.
 Afternoon: Wet landing on Espumilla Beach.

Playa Espumilla is located on the northwestern coast of Santiago Island in James Bay. During the last presence of the El Niño phenomenon, one of the two lagoons at this site underwent a process of sedimentation, which led to the disappearance of a resident colony of flamingos. The main attractions here are the black beach, the palo santo forest and the island's scenic landscape. The beach is an important site for nesting marine turtles (Chelonia midas agassizi).

Swimming and snorkeling opportunities.

Before returning to the yacht, we will follow a trail to the abandoned salt mines located in the dry interior of Santiago.

Return to the yacht and navigate around Buccaneer Cove (Caleta Bucanero).

In the 17th and 18th centuries, pirates and whalers reportedly used Buccaneer Cove as a safe place to rest and load up on supplies such as water and food. During that time, passing ships released goats on the island in the hopes that they would multiply and be a source of food for subsequent voyages. However, without any natural predators to hold their numbers in check, the animals became feral and depleted most of Santiago's vegetation. In the 1970s the national park began an extermination program in an effort to eradicate feral goats, pigs, and cats in the islands.
 Dinner: Dinner onboard.
 Evening: Orientation to the next day's activities.
   
Accommodations: Tip Top IV
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13: Galápagos Islands –
Isabela Island (Punta Vicente Roca) & Fernandina Island (Punta Espinoza).
(Monday, October 15)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast onboard.
 Morning: Panga ride around Punta Vicente Roca to view the sea lions, boobies, marine iguanas, and flightless cormorants that reside along the rocky shores.

As cold currents flow around the northwestern tip of Isabela, food-rich waters are brought closer to the surface, attracting all sorts of marine life and birds. Punta Vicente Roca’s coves, rich marine life, and well protected bay have made this into a prized diving location in the islands.

Swimming and snorkeling opportunities.

Return to the yacht.
 Lunch: Lunch onboard.
 Afternoon: Dry landing at Punta Espinoza on Fernandina Island.

This young island is the third largest in the Galápagos and is also the westernmost; located next to Isabela Island. Fernandina has some of the most dramatic landscapes found in the archipelago. The aa and pahoehoe lava formations create a unique landscape and provide visitors with a great chance to study lava flows and the forces which gave birth to the Galápagos Islands. Although Punta Espinosa is better known for its large colony of marine iguanas, one can also expect to see sea lions, Flightless Cormorants and Galápagos Penguins.

Return to the yacht.
 Dinner: Dinner onboard.
 Evening: Orientation to the next day's activities.
   
Accommodations: Tip Top IV
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14: Galápagos Islands -
Isabela Island (Tagus Cove, Urbina Bay & Elizabeth Bay).
(Tuesday, October 16)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast onboard.
 Morning: Panga ride to Tagus Cove to observe local wildlife and search for ancient graffiti left behind by whalers and pirates. Look for penguins, marine iguanas, sea lions, and a number of sea birds.

Opportunity for swimming and snorkeling.

Wet landing at Urbina Bay. Observe the coral formations and native wildlife during a walk along the coast.

Urbina Bay is situated approximately two fifths of the way along Isabela’s western coast. The flattened area of the bay exhibits signs of a coral reef on land, proof that the flat land we see today in that area was once uplifted from the sea. Cormorants, pelicans, marine iguanas, and Flightless Cormorants frequent this site in addition to marine turtles and rays which are sometimes seen swimming in the bay.

Return to the yacht.
 Lunch: Lunch onboard.
 Afternoon: Panga ride to Elizabeth Bay to observe marine life.

Elizabeth Bay, located on Isabela's west shore, is an extremely interesting site for observing marine life. It is also one of the best areas to spot and photograph the elusive Galápagos Penguin. A colony of these unique birds inhabits a rocky islet at the entrance to the bay. A small passage lined with mangroves leads into an enclosed cove. The sheltered waters host marine turtles, rays, flightless cormorants, and sea lions. Although the marine life is the star of this visitor's site, don't forget to look up once in a while and scan the skies; Galápagos Hawks are oftentimes seen circling overhead.

Return to the yacht.
 Dinner: Dinner onboard.
 Evening: Orientation to the next day's activities.
   
Accommodations: Tip Top IV
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 15: Galápagos Islands –
Isabela Island (Wetlands, Wall of Tears & Breeding Center “Arnaldo Tupiza,” & Sierra Negra Volcano)
(Wednesday, October 17)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast onboard.
 Morning: Dry landing at Las Tintoreras. The islet's small and calm bay has crystal clear waters that make this a perfect location for observing sea turtles, penguins, sea lions, marine iguanas, rays, and white tip sharks.

Field trip to the Sierra Negra Volcano.

Take a 45 minute bus ride to the Paradero Sierra Negra to enjoy the spectacular scenery. From there continue to the summit of the Sierra Negra Volcano, one of the oldest volcanoes on Isabela. The sulfur, iron and volcanic rock formations make up a colorful landscape. Follow the trail to Volcán Chico on the northeastern side of Sierra Negra. Volcán Chico is the fissure of some parasitic cones, composed of slag and lava, with an elevation of approximately 2,820 ft.

The Sierra Negra volcano is believed to be the oldest volcano on Isabela. According to some geologists, the wider and shallower a caldera, the more ancient. This conclusion is based on research that indicates that the ongoing volcanic processes in calderas tend to file and break down their edges over thousands and millions of years.

Return to the yacht.
 Lunch: Lunch onboard.
 Afternoon: Afternoon field trip to the Tortoise Breeding Center.

The Tortoise Breeding Center of Isabela houses many tortoise breeds in danger of extinction. It also has beautiful gardens consisting of native plants.

Visit the infamous "Wall of Tears" or "Muro de las Lagrimas." This wall was erected by convicts in the first half of this century when that area served as a penal colony. Many prisoners died during the work and the construction earned its infamous name.

Before returning to the yacht, explore the area of the island known as Humedales (Wetlands). Opportunity to view flamingoes and migratory birds along the area's lagoons and mangroves.

Return to the yacht.
 Dinner: Dinner onboard.
 Evening: Orientation to the next day's activities.
   
Accommodations: Tip Top IV
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 16: Galápagos Islands -
Floreana (Punta Cormorant and Champion Islet).
(Thursday, October 18)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast onboard.
 Morning: Wet landing on the greenish colored beach on Floreana.

Follow trails from the black mangrove beds to a nearby lagoon. This large, brackish lagoon holds one of the largest flamingo populations in the Galapagos. Floreana Island is best known for its endemic plant life like the Galapagos millwork, passion flower, and button mangrove.

Another easy walk on a local trail will reward our efforts with views of La Picona Beach. The white, powder-like sand is made of finely ground coral. Green Sea Turtles frequent the bay, especially in January when females come ashore to nest (eggs begin hatching around April and May).

Take a dinghy ride around Champion Islet, a small island off the coast of Floreana Island. Look for Charles Mockingbirds, Nazca Boobies, Swallow-tailed Gulls, and Brown Noddies. Reef fish, sea turtles, penguins, and white-tipped reef sharks also frequent the area, making this a great snorkeling location.

Swimming and snorkeling opportunities.

Return to the yacht.
 Lunch: Lunch onboard.
 Afternoon: Wet landing at Post Office Bay.

The infamous Post Office Bay can be found on the northern side of Floreana Island. This is the site where whalers used to "mail" their correspondence. A barrel was used as a mail box and held letters from sailors across the globe. If a passing ship was heading where the mail was addressed, the captain would collect and deliver it. Although the barrel is no longer the original one, the system still works since visitors continue to collect and drop off mail.

Swimming and snorkeling opportunities.

Later this afternoon, enjoy a short bus ride to the Asilo de la Paz (Peace Asylum), then view giant tortoises during a visit to a special corral built by the Galapagos National Park Service.

The historic Asilo de la Paz was home to the island's first settlers and includes a freshwater spring and a cave they used for shelter. Floreana's early history is filled with mystery and intrigue, much like a good Agatha Christy book. Relatives of the Wittmer family still live in the islands.

Return to the yacht.
 Dinner: Dinner onboard.
 Evening: Orientation of the next day's activities.
   
Accommodations: Tip Top IV
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 17: Guayaquil -
Charles Darwin Research Station/Flight to Guayaquil/Walk Along the Malecon.
(Friday, October 19)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast onboard.
 Morning: Field trip to the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz.

The Charles Darwin Research Station (CDRS) is a biological research station operated by the Charles Darwin Foundation. The objective of the CDRS is to conduct scientific research and environmental education for conservation. The Station has a team of over a hundred scientists, educators, volunteers, research students and support staff from all over the world.

Transfer to Baltra for the flight to Guayaquil.
 Lunch: Light lunch on the flight.
 Afternoon: Arrive to Guayaquil and transfer to the hotel.

Enjoy an afternoon excursion to the Malecon (river walk).

Guayaquil is Ecuador's most populous city and a vital commercial center. The city underwent a transformation considered short of miraculous centered around a two mile riverfront walkway, or Malecon, with restored historic buildings, gardens, museums, stores, and restaurants.
 Dinner: Farewell dinner at hotel restaurant.
 Evening: Depending on flight schedules, some participants will transfer to the airport this evening for a late night/early morning flight to the U.S.
   
Accommodations: Hotel Oro Verde
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 18: Depart from Guayaquil.
Arrive to the U.S.
(Saturday, October 20)
   
 Depart From: Transfer to Guayaquil's international airport.
Flight to the U.S.

Note: Participants with independent travel arrangements and/or scheduled on later flights can keep their hotel rooms until check-out time on this day. Except for breakfast, all other meals are on your own on this day.
 Breakfast: Breakfast at hotel (dependent on flight times).
   
Meals Included: Breakfast
Important information about your itinerary: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information featured on this website. Itineraries are based on our best information at this time. Circumstances beyond our control may require us to adjust itineraries or other details. We regret any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding. Information will be sent to you from your Program Provider approximately three weeks prior to the program start date. The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.

Suggested Reading List


Voyage of the Beagle


Author: Charles Darwin


Description: FAVORITE The wide-eyed tale of a young man on a five-year voyage that changed his life -- and our way of thinking about the world. First published in 1839, this book is still essential reading. Darwin's South American chapters are an excellent introduction to the Galapagos, Beagle Channel, Chile, Tierra del Fuego, the Chilean fjords and the Brazilian coast. With maps and appendices.



Galapagos, A Natural History Guide


Author: Michael Jacks


Description: HARD TO FIND This comprehensive overview of the habitats, plants, birds, and animals of the islands, written with the curious visitor in mind, is practically mandatory reading. It's the single best overview of the archipelago. Jackson also includes a useful bibliography, wildlife checklists and a list of plants by vegetation zone. Illustrated with many charts and maps, we refer to the book often.



Archaeological Map of Machu Picchu


Author: Wright Water Engineers


Description: Ken Wright's full color site plan shows monuments, topography and physical features of the Inca sanctuary in exquisite detail.



Ecuador Map


Author: Berndtson & Berndtson


Description: A detailed laminated map of Ecuador at a scale of 1:1,000,000, with detailed insets of Quito, Guayaquil, Galapagos and the Ecuadorian Amazon on the reverse.



Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands, Travellers' Wildlife Guides


Author: David Pearson, Les Beletsky


Description: An excellent guide to Ecuador's wildlife, featuring concise descriptions and color illustrations of 500 frequently encountered reptiles and amphibians, birds, mammals and insects. The Galapagos Islands get a separate chapter and section of illustrations.



Ecuador in Focus, A Guide to the People, Politics, and Culture


Author: Wilma Roos, Omer van Renterghem


Description: This slim guide provides a lively overview of Ecuador’s history, cultural heritage and political, environmental and economic challenges.



Galapagos Islands Explorer Map


Author: Ocean Explorer Maps


Description: A detailed map of the Galapagos archipelago for the traveler at a scale of 1:400,000, including illustrated biographies of famous visitors, a brief wildlife guide with color photographs, a map of Darwin's route.



Galapagos Wildlife, A Visitor's Guide


Author: Bradt Travel Guides


Description: FIELD GUIDE: A compact guide to the birds, reptiles, insects, plants and marine life of the archipelago featuring a very good selection of large color photographs. Separate chapters cover visitor sites, history, conservation and habitats. The authors present key information on the flora, fauna and places in Galapagos for the traveler.



Infinite Ecuador


Author: Sebastian Crespo


Description: The Andes, Amazon, Pacific, Galapagos, historic cities, remote villages and farms are all on display in this collection of photographs.



Insight Guide Peru


Author: Insight Guides


Description: Panoramic in scope, this illustrated overview brings Peru to life in hundreds of color photographs and vivid essays by a team of experts writing on history, archaeology and culture.



Lonely Planet Phrasebooks: Latin American Spanish


Author: Roberto Esposto


Description: This portable phrasebook provides a useful mix of everyday phrases, words and expressions used in different Spanish speaking countries in Latin America. Learn the nuances of the Spanish language as it is spoken in Puerto Rico, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Honduras, Guatemala, El Salvador, Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, Bolivia, Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, Ecuador, Peru, and Chile.



South American Birds: A Photographic Aid to Identification


Author: John Stewart Dunning


Description: This comprehensive South American bird guide has over 1400 color photos and more than 2700 species described with habitat and identification information. A very helpful range map is included for each bird.



The Conquest of the Incas


Author: John Hemming


Description: This well-researched book provides a historical account of the 16th century Spanish conquest of the Inca Empire in Peru and neighboring countries. John Hemming is an anthropologist, writer, and explorer with an extensive travel background. He is also a member of the Royal Geographic Society.



The Incas and their Ancestors, The Archaeology of Peru


Author: Michael Moseley


Description: An outstanding illustrated survey of the archaeology of the Inca, Moche and Nasca civilizations. With hundreds of color illustrations and line drawings, it's an in-depth look at the ancient cultures and history of Peru. A great general introduction.



The Incas, People of the Sun


Author: Carmen Bernard, Paul Bahn (translator)


Description: Featuring hundreds of drawings and photographs, a chronology and long excerpts from the journals of early explorers, this is a colorful pocket encyclopedia of Inca history and archaeology.



The Last Days of the Incas


Author: Kim Macquarrie


Description: MacQuarrie tackles the personality, aspirations and greed of Francisco Pizarro in this vivid account of the conquest of a continent.





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