Andean Rainforest & Galapagos Islands

This enthralling journey takes you to the heart of the Andean rainforest, the historic capital of Quito and the remarkable Galapagos Islands. Explore acres of untouched rainforest; discover Quito’s colonial treasures; and embark on a magical four night cruise aboard the elegant Yacht Isabela II as you follow in the footsteps of Charles Darwin and encounter the untouched wildlife paradise of the Galapagos Islands.

Combining an abundance of wildlife and astounding natural beauty with the cultural delights of the capital, this journey is the perfect introduction to the region’s unique wonders.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
•   Stay in the heart of the Andean Rainforest
•   Enjoy guided nature walks and nocturnal safaris
•   Explore colonial Quito's cobbled streets and historic buildings
•   Enjoy a magical cruise around the remarkable Galapagos Islands
•   Observe bird colonies, giant tortoises, marine iguanas and sea lions

MEAL PLAN
•   Breakfast daily
•   Lunch on Days 2 and 3 and 7-10
•   Dinner on Days 1-3 and 7-10

ACCOMMODATION
•   The hotels featured are all of a 5 star standard.

NB
•   This private journey is an independent itinerary that includes excursions during the Galapagos cruise and guided nature walks at Mashpi Lodge.
•   Excursions in Quito can be prebooked at extra cost. Please contact us for further details.
•   The Galapagos National Park fee and tourist card is included in the holiday cost.

DAY 1 - LONDON TO QUITO TO MINDO CLOUD FOREST
Fly British Airways from Heathrow to Madrid and onwards with LAN Airlines to Quito, Ecuador’s capital city. Upon arrival, transfer to Mashpi Lodge (approx. 2.5 hours), which is secluded within the misty emerald vegetation of the Mashpi Rainforest Biodiversity Reserve, for three nights. This brand new, truly unique and sustainable jungle hideaway respects the environment without comprising comfort and convenience.

DAY 2 - MINDO CLOUD FOREST
Enjoy time at leisure over the next two days amid 2,600 acres of private rainforest that encompasses mountains, streams and waterfalls and plays host to an astonishing number of plants and wildlife, from fragrant orchids to electric-blue shimmering morpho butterflies; over 500 species of birds from hummingbirds to toucans; as well as monkeys, peccaries and pumas. Glide over a mile through the rainforest canopy on board an aerial tram and enjoy a unique view of the forest or explore the rainforest with guided nature walks and nocturnal safaris.

DAY 4 - MINDO CLOUD FOREST TO QUITO
Transfer to Quito for three nights at Casa Gangotena, a brand new stylish hotel set in a restored historic mansion in the heart of Quito’s Old Town. Spend three days independently exploring the cobblestone streets of this colonial city which features the Andean peaks as a striking backdrop and is replete with historic buildings, impressive architecture, pretty churches and bustling plazas.

DAY 7 - QUITO TO GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
Take a three hour flight to the small island of Baltra in the Galapagos. Board the Yacht Isabela II and embark on a four night cruise around this unique archipelago of volcanic islands. Upon arrival at Santa Cruz Island, transfer to the island’s Highlands to visit the famous Tortoise Reserve which is set in lush vegetation and is home to the Galapagos’ largest tortoise population. The region is also a haven to unique land birds including mockingbirds and the rare woodpecker finch. Afternoon visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station where you will learn about conservation efforts in the islands.

DAY 8 - GALAPAGOS CRUISE
In the morning, cruise to Floreana Island and visit Asilo de la Paz, home to the cave of the Galapagos’ first inhabitant, followed by historic Post Office Bay to discover the history of the early inhabitants as well as the pirates and whalers that once sought refuge here. Continue to Punta Cormorant for a gentle walk to observe a variety of birds including flamingos that inhabit a brackish-water lagoon. Chance to snorkel or ride a glass-bottom boat before dinner.

DAY 9 - GALAPAGOS CRUISE
Sail to Punta Suárez on Hood Island and take a thrilling walk on lava terrain. Visit the unique bird colonies including the waved albatross (May to December). Look out for marine iguanas and see the island’s famous blowhole which shots water up to 80 feet in the air. In the afternoon sail to the white coral beach on Gardner Bay Island and observe sea lions, hood mockingbirds and finches.

DAY 10 - GALAPAGOS CRUISE
Cruise to San Cristobal, home to the Islands’ only freshwater lagoon and disembark at Punta Pitt on the northeastern coast. Follow the trail from the beach for spectacular views and the unique chance to see the Galapagos’ three species of blue-footed boobies in the same place, as well as a colony sea lions. After lunch there is a chance to swim from the beach (weather permitting). Aftenoon dinghy ride along the shore to Cerro Bruojo’s beautiful white coraline beach for a spot of birdwatching. Look out for the Chathammockingbird which is endemic to the island.

DAY 11 - GALAPAGOS ISLANDS TO GUAYAQUIL TO LONDON
Disembark at Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on San Cristobal and transfer to the airport for a flight to Guyaquil. Return flight to Madrid with LAN Airlines, then onwards with British Airways to Heathrow, arriving the next day.

PERU EXTENSION
DAY 11 - GALAPAGOS ISLANDS TO GUAYAQUIL
Disembark at Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on San Cristobal and transfer to the airport for a flight to Guyaquil. Overnight at the Hilton Colón (four star).
DAY 12 - GUAYAQUIL TO LIMA
Fly to the Lima and transfer to the Miraflores Park Hotel by Orient Express for one night in the capital city.
DAY 13 - LIMA TO CUZCO
Fly to Cuzco, the ancient capital of the Incas for two nights at the Monasterio.
DAY 15 - MACHU PICCHU
Transfer to Machu Picchu, the legendary ‘Lost City of the Incas’ for one night at the Sanctuary Lodge which boasts an enviable location opposite the ruins.
DAY 16 - MACHU PICCHU TO CUZCO
Return to Cuzco for one night at the Monasterio.
DAY 17 - CUZCO TO LIMA
Fly back to Lima for a final night at the Miraflores Park Hotel by Orient Express.
DAY 18 - LIMA TO LONDON
Return flight with LAN Airlines to Madrid and onwards with British Airways to Heathrow, arriving the next day.