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Galapagos: Aboard the National Geographic

Program Number: 14812RJ
Start and End Dates:
12/8/2012 - 12/18/2012; 10/11/2013 - 10/20/2013; 11/8/2013 - 11/17/2013; 12/6/2013 - 12/15/2013;
Duration: 10 nights
Location: Ecuador
Price starting at: $5,550.00 - Price may vary based on date, departure city
Program Type: Adventure Afloat Study Cruise; Small Ship Cruising Activity Level: t (see description)
Meals: 24; 9 Breakfasts, 7 Lunches, 8 Dinners    
Meal Options: Vegetarian    

Surround yourself with incredible natural beauty as you sail to the Galápagos Islands aboard the National Geographic Endeavour. Experience the famous biodiversity of these undisturbed islands as you encounter tortoises in the mossy highlands, dolphins leaping above the waves, shockingly bright-colored crabs and many more.




Activity Particulars

Walking up to two miles per day on uneven, rocky and sandy surfaces. Climbing in and out of Zodiac boats. Optional snorkeling and swimming activities. The exact routing for our stops depends on the National Park Service and is determined by the Galapagos National Park Service and is subject to change during the program.



Please note that this programs runs in conjunction with #20974 which includes a pre-cruise land portion in Peru.



Itinerary At-a-Glance

Guayaquil (Ecuador), 1 night; aboard National Geographic Endeavour, 7 nights San Cristobal, Espanola, Floreana, Santa Cruz Island, Bartolome & Santiago, Genovesa, Baltra.



Day 1: Arrival Guayaquil (Ecuador):

Lodging: Five-star hotel.



Flight to San Cristobal/ embark National Geographic Endeavour:

San Cristobal is a wonderful introduction to the Galápagos. Wet landing on a green, olivine beach for a hike and spectacular scenery - tuff stone cliffs created by sea and wind. Zodiac rides along the coastline reveal blue-footed and red-footed boobies.



Day 3: Española Island:

Explore Española, home to Darwin’s finches, Hood Mockingbirds, and Blue-footed Boobies. See marine iguanas, which develop vivid green and red coloration from their food, coastal seaweed that blooms in iguana mating season.



Day 4: Floreana Island:

During an early morning hike at Punta Cormorant you’ll observe flamingos and shore birds, a turtle nesting beach and fascinating vegetation. Later, while at Champion Islet, you’ll snorkel among sea lions in clear waters, and then spend time looking for the endangered Charles mockingbird from our Zodiacs.



Day 5: Santa Cruz Island:

After landing on a black sandy beach, enjoy hikes against the backdrop of the youngest Galápagos volcanoes as we look for colorful endemic land iguanas. Later, snorkel in deep water among sea turtles, or kayak and take Zodiac rides in search of flightless cormorants and Galápagos penguins.



Day 6: Dragon Hill and Guy Fawkes/El Eden and Daphne Major (Santa Cruz Island):

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.



Day 7: Bartolomé and Santiago Islands:

On Bartolomé, discover enchanting landscape where lava, mangroves and golden sand converge. Search the pools and caverns of Santiago for Galápagos Fur Seals, sea lions, and Sally Lightfoot crabs.



Day 8: Genovesa Island:

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.



Days 9-10: Disembark Baltra Island / flight to Guayaquil / departure:

Overnight flight back to the US.



National Geographic Islander

Lindblad Expeditions National Geographic Islander can accommodate 48 passengers on an exclusive sailing for Road Scholar. Common areas are linked by stairs.


Ecuador

Man, animal and plant cohabitate Ecuador’s mountains, rainforests, and shores in a delicate balance. Among such a range of wildlife and fauna, Charles Darwin’s revolutionary theory of evolution was inspired in 1859 in the country’s Galapagos Islands. Coupled with its natural beauty, Ecuador’s animated culture can be seen in its varied dishes and the excitement of soccer fans rooting for El Nacional.
Meals and Lodgings
   Hilton Colon Guayaquil
  Guayaquil, Ecuador 1 night
   M/S National Geographic Islander
  Galapagos Islands, Ecuador 7 nights
   Hilton Colon Guayaquil
  Guayaquil, Ecuador 1 night
 Hilton Colon Guayaquil
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 allowed: Yes
  Elevators available: Yes
  Additional nights prior: $180 Single/$198 Double (2011) Please contact the program provider at programinfo@roadscholar.org or call 1-866-359-5966
  Check in time: 2:00 PM
  Additional nights after: $180 Single/$198 Double (2011) Please contact the program provider at programinfo@roadscholar.org or call 1-866-359-5966
  Check out time: 11:00 AM

 M/S National Geographic Islander
Type: Cruise Ship
  Description: There is a guest internet Kiosk, laundry service, and LEXspa. A ship's doctor, Undersea Specialist and Video Chronicler are also on board.The ship is equiped with a hydrophone, kayaks, snorkeling gear, Splash-Cam, underwater video camera, video microscope, wet suits and a Zodiac landing craft.
  Ship Information: The Islander is the latest addition to the Lindblad fleet and is a versatile 164-foot twin-hulled vessel with 24 spacious cabins comfortably accommodating 48 guests. She is a sturdy expedition ship, designed for year-round discovery and active exploration of the Galápagos and can reach places inaccessible to larger ships due to its small size.
  Contact info: N/A
N/A,   Ecuador
phone: + N/A
  Room amenities: All cabins have a window with an outside view, private facilities and climate control.
  Facility amenities: The ship is fully air-conditioned. Covered decks with hammocks, chairs and tables; Doctors office; Fitness Center; Gift Shop; Library; Lounge with full-service bar and facilities for films, slide shows and lectures; and Sky Deck. The Ecuadorian captain and officers welcome guests to the Bridge in accordance with their "Open Bridge" policy.
  Smoking allowed: No


Travel Details
  Start of Program:
This program begins after 3 pm with late afternoon/early evening arrivals in Guayaquil, Ecuador, with the overnight at the Hilton Colon Hotel. You will be staying at Hilton Colon Guayaquil that night.
  End of Program:
This program ends after 6 am breakfast at the Hilton Colon Hotel in Guayaquil, Ecuador, with departures to the airport in the early afternoon. You will be staying at Hilton Colon Guayaquil the night before.
  Required documents:
The Road Scholar Health & Safety Form is required. If you are a U.S. citizen wishing to enter Ecuador, you must present a U.S. passport with at least six months remaining validity. Under Ecuadorian law, U.S. citizens traveling for business or tourism on a tourist passport can enter Ecuador for up to 90 days per calendar year without a visa.
  Parking availability:
N/A
Transportation (For Independent Travelers)
To Start of Program
  Location:  Guayaquil
  Nearest airport:  GYE
  Transportation to site: The Hilton Colon Guayaquil is located approximately 5 minutes from the airport. The hotel offers a complimentary shuttle available 24 hours a day, for participants who are unable to make the group transfer.
  From End of Program
  Location: Guayaquil
  Transportation from site: Participants who are unable to make the group transfer to the airport at the end of the program may take the complimentary shuttle provided by the hotel. When departing Ecuador, all guests will be required to pay an Ecuadorian Departure Tax. Those departing from Guayaquil will be charged $25.00 (subject to change). All fees are in U.S. dollars and must be paid at the airport prior to clearing immigration .
    (Additional transportation information same as above)
Equipment Requirements: Bringing binoculars is highly recommended. Snorkeling equipment will be provided, but participants may want to bring their own.
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: US Departure / Arrival Guayaquil, Ecuador
(Saturday, December 8)
   
 Arrive To: Late arrival in Guayaquil. Late evening group transfer to the hotel.
   
Accommodations: Hilton Colon Guayaquil

Day 2: Fly Guayaquil to the Galapagos Islands / Board the National Geographic Islander
(Sunday, December 9)
   
 Breakfast: Early breakfast at the hotel.
 Morning: Transfer to the airport for flight to San Cristobal.
 Lunch: Lunch on board the ship.
 Afternoon: San Cristobal is a wonderful introduction to the Galapagos. Wet landing on a green olivine beach for a hike and spectacular scenery - tuff stone cliffs created by sea and wind. Zodiac rides along the coastline reveal blue-footed and red-footed boobies.
 Dinner: Dinner on board the ship.
   
Accommodations: M/S National Geographic Islander
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Galapagos Islands: Espanola
(Monday, December 10)
   
 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.
   
Accommodations: M/S National Geographic Islander
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Galapagos Islands: Floreana
(Tuesday, December 11)
   
 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.
   
Accommodations: M/S National Geographic Islander
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Galapagos Islands: Isabela
(Wednesday, December 12)
   
 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 ISABELA: After searching for whales during the early morning, explore the striking coastline of Ecuador Volcano. The southern cliffs known as “Punta Vicente Roca” are home to many species of sea birds, and the nutrient-rich waters of the region make it perfect for Zodiac exploration and snorkeling. Caves and dramatic shorelines are abundant in this area, often giving us the chance to encounter dolphins, whales, sea turtles, and the famous ocean sunfish, known better by its scientific name, Mola mola.
 Lunch: Lunch on board the ship.
 Afternoon: Galapagos Islands exploration continues.
 Dinner: Dinner on board the ship.
   
Accommodations: M/S National Geographic Islander
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Galapagos Islands: Santa Cruz
(Thursday, December 13)
   
 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: See the local culture and learn about the conservation efforts made by the scientists of the Charles Darwin Research Station. Explore completely different highland ecosystems, where giant tortoises and various Darwin finch species forage among greenery.
 Lunch: Lunch on board the ship.
 Afternoon: Continue Santa Cruz exploration.
 Dinner: Dinner on board the ship.
   
Accommodations: M/S National Geographic Islander
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Galapagos Island: Bartolome and Santiago
(Friday, December 14)
   
 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: Bartolome is an enchanting landscape where lava, mangroves and golden sand converge. You will have the opportunity for great walks, enticing views, and perhaps a chance to snorkel with penguins.
 Lunch: Lunch on board the ship.
 Afternoon: In the afternoon you are scheduled to stop in SANTIAGO: Santiago offers some of the best “tide pooling” in the islands. You’ll follow a path along a series of pools and underwater caverns in search of Galapagos fur seals, sea lions, and Sally Lightfoot crabs.
 Dinner: Dinner on board the ship.
   
Accommodations: M/S National Geographic Islander
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Galapagos Islands: Genovesa
(Saturday, December 15)
   
 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 island has the largest populations of red-footed boobies in the world. We'll also encounter Frigate birds and nesting Nazca boobies. Enjoy nature hikes, deep-water snorkeling and kayaking at Darwin's Bay and Prince Philips Steps.
 Lunch: Lunch on board the ship.
 Afternoon: This afternoon continue your Galapagos Islands exploration of Genovesa Island.
 Dinner: Dinner on board the ship.
   
Accommodations: M/S National Geographic Islander
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Galapagos/ Fly to Guayaquil / Free time
(Sunday, December 16)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship.
 Morning: Morning transfer from the ship to the airport in Baltra for return flight to Guayaquil. Tranfer from the airport to the hotel for check in.
 Lunch: Lunch on your own
 Afternoon: Afternoon at leisure to explore Guayaquil.
 Dinner: Dinner at the hotel.
   
Accommodations: Hilton Colon Guayaquil
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 10: Depart for the US
(Monday, December 17)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel
 Lunch: Lunch on your own
 Afternoon: Transfer to the airport for flights back to North America
   
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 11: Flights arrive in the USA
(Tuesday, December 18)
   
 Morning: Arrive in the US after an overnight flight
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.

What’s included in this Road Scholar program?



Except for the occasional meal on some programs, Road Scholar programs are all-inclusive. That means there are no extra “options,” no passing the hat for tips and no surprises. From lectures and field trips to gratuities and accommodations – the price you pay up front is the price you pay.

Specifically, this program includes:


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