|
The Ship
Don't let her accommodating public and private spaces 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!
What you'll see . . .
|
The Trip
 DAY 1 U.S./Guayaquil, Ecuador
Depart U.S. and arrive Guayaquil by late evening. We've found that Miami is a convenient gateway for most, but other air alternatives are available. If you choose to take the non-stop American Airlines group flight from Miami, we depart in the early evening with a flying time of approximately 4 hours. Upon arrival in Guayaquil, it's a short drive to the Hotel Hilton Colón.
DAY 2 Guayaquil/Galápagos/Baltra/Embark Ship
This morning fly to the Galápagos. Flying time is approximately 1.5 hours; upon arrival immediately board National Geographic Endeavour. (B, L, D)
DAY 3 Floreana
Champion Islet, just off the eastern shore of Floreana, is a fabulous snorkel site and home to a large colony of sea lions. There is nothing more delightful than an hour spent in the clear waters with these creatures! On Floreana, we may find flamingos, pintail ducks and various shorebirds. Hike to a lovely beach. (B, L, D)
DAY 4 Isabela and Fernandina
Anchor off the picturesque port of Puerto Villamil. Walk the streets of this small town, visit the nearby saltwater lagoons, home to flamingos or simply stroll along a beautiful beach. Visit the tortoise breeding center which is jointly administered by the Galápagos National Park and the Charles Darwin Research Station. We'll also explore Isabela's caves and shoreline and search the waters for dolphins, whales, sea turtles and the elusive ocean sunfish the mola-mola. We'll also investigate Punta Espinoza on Fernandina Island the youngest island in Galápagos. It's marine iguana heaven, with Isabela's volcanoes as a dramatic backdrop. (B, L, D)
DAY 5-6 Santa Cruz
The epicenter of Galápagos administration as well as the Charles Darwin Research Center where we'll learn about their vital preservation work. We'll head up into the highlands to roam the moss-draped lush landscape where wild giant tortoises often forage. (B, L, D)
DAY 6-7 Bartolome and Santiago
Bartolome is an enchanting landscape where lava, mangroves and golden sand converge. Great walks, views and a chance to snorkel with penguins a tropical oxymoron. Santiago provides us a chance to see the Galápagos fur seal, along with the opportunity to enjoy the best "tide pooling." (B, L, D)
DAY 8 Espanola
See blue-footed boobies, sea lions galore, Española marine iguanas which develop particularly vivid coloration, and waved albatross exclusive to this island. Snorkel and stroll the island's lovely beaches. (B, L, D)
DAY 9 Baltra/Disembark Ship/Guayaquil
This morning disembark the ship and fly to Guayaquil. The late afternoon and evening free to explore the city and prepare for your journey home. If you would like to visit Quito, please inquire about our optional Quito extensions. (B)
DAY 10 Guayaquil/Home
This morning fly home. (B) |