South America
galapagos islands
on eden
trip highligh­­­ts
Cruising the Galapagos archipelago
Unique wildlife experiences
Expert naturalist guide on board cruise
Snorkeling and swimming with wildlife
Pristine environments
Trip Duration8 days
GradeDiscovery and Cruising
ActivitiesCruising, Wildlife Viewing
Summary8 day trip, 7 nights boat
welcome to
World Expeditions
Thank you for your interest in our Galapagos Islands on Eden trip.
At World Expeditions we are passionate about our off the beaten
track experiences as they provide our travellers with the thrill of
coming face to face with untouched cultures as well as wilderness
regions of great natural beauty. We are committed to ensuring that
our unique itineraries are well researched, affordable and tailored for
the enjoyment of small groups or individuals ‑ philosophies that have
been at our core since 1975 when we began operating adventure
holidays. Our itineraries will give you the very best travel experience,
designed by people with incredible local knowledge who share our
vision of authentic exchange and real exploration with a responsible
tourism approach. Whether you like your adventures to include
trekking, touring, cycling, mountaineering, kayaking or cruising World
Expeditions can make it happen for you. We hope you will join us for
a life changing experience!!
1 – © 2017 World Expeditions Travel Group - Greg Lee 3/9/2017 5:13:44 PM
Trip Code: EDN
why travel with World Expeditions?
World Expeditions has been working with our local operators for many
years. Over the years we have learnt what is most important about
delivering trips to a high standard. These trips offer exceptional value
for money. On the Galapagos our boats have been chosen carefully for
their quality and size. The Eden accommodates 16 passengers which is
the optimum number on a Galapagos cruise. Compare our prices and
all our inclusions and we feel that few trips can compare in terms of
value for money. Given our local knowledge, experience and excellent
leadership, we are quite sure that this trip will be the trip of a lifetime.
galapagos islands on eden
Galapagos
Islands
Cruise the Galapagos Islands for a unique view of the natural world
Baltra
Colombia
Quito
Ecuador
Peru
trip cost
Joining Quito Low Season from:$4499
All prices are per person
options & supplements
H - Christmas and New Year Surcharge 2016:
$240
M - Galapagos Eden 2018 Surcharge:
$260
World Expeditions does not require single travellers
to pay a surcharge for travelling alone. We will
arrange for you to share accommodation with
another traveller of the same gender and if we can
not match you up we will provide a single room at
no extra charge. If you prefer not to share a single
supplement is payable to guarantee your own room.
The cost of the single supplement is listed above.
For Competitive airfares to Quito and stopover ideas,
contact our expert staff today to receive a detailed quote.
Inclusions Valued at USD$:
Internal Flights:USD$525
Park & Entry Fees:USD$120
the trip
Famous for its exceptional and fearless wildlife, the ancient landscape and rare inhabitants of
the Galápagos Islands give visitors a unique view of the natural world. Although the islands
are volcanic and largely bare of vegetation, they have different geological features that make
them dramatic and strangely beautiful. Accompanied by a naturalist guide, this carefully
planned eight day cruise aboard the Eden provides ample opportunity to explore this unique
wildlife wonderland, where we can appreciate Darwin’s theories amongst the numerous
species of reptiles, birds and mammals. The Eden is a tourist superior 88 foot, steel‑hulled
motor vessel, fully air‑conditioned and accommodates 16 passengers with private bathrooms.
Whether snorkelling with sea lions, searching for giant tortoises or watching the mating dance
of the Blue Footed Booby, the Galapagos offers a truly amazing spectacle. This extension can
ideally be combined with any of our South American journeys.
at a glance
DAY 1FLY TO GALAPAGOS FROM QUITO/GUAYAQUIL, COMMENCE CRUISE
DAY 2GENOVESA (TOWER) ISLAND & DARWIN’S BAY
DAY 3BARTOLOME (BARTHOLOMEW) & SULLIVAN BAY (SANTIAGO) ISLAND
DAY 4SANTA CRUZ (INDEFATIGABLE) ISLAND & BLACK TURTLE COVE
DAY 5CHARLES DARWIN STATION AND HIGHLANDS
DAY 6PUNTA CORMORANT & POST OFFICE BAY (FLOREANA ISLAND)
DAY 7ESPAÑOLA (HOOD) ISLAND, PUNTA SUAREZ & GARDNER BAY
DAY 8LEON DORMIDO (SAN CRISTÓBAL) ISLAND & KICKER ROCK
additional deposits required
In addition to the World Expeditions deposit you will be required to provide a 20%
non‑refundable deposit, for your Galapagos cruise. This 20% deposit is required by the boat
operator and is payable at the time of booking. We recommend you take out travel insurance
at the time of booking.
variation to booking conditions
Cancellation conditions for this trip vary from the standard World Expeditions
conditions. If cancellation takes place less than 70 days prior to your departure date,
100% of the cruise price will be forfeited.
what’s included
7 breakfasts, 7 lunches and 7 dinners
Twin share berth
Internal flights approx. US$525
Professional naturalist guide and support staff
Transport to and from cruise
Group medical kit
Ingala control card and Galapagos Park fee to the value of US$120. (Please note if
arriving to the Galapagos prior to the cruise these fees can’t be prepaid ‑ contact
your consultant for further details).
Use of snorkelling equipment
No local payments policy: Local cash payments are becoming increasingly popular with
many operators. The policy seems to benefit the tour operators, more than the local
economies or travellers, as it avoids local taxes and transfers the cost and risk of cash
handling to travellers. In accordance with our Responsible Travel practices.
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galapagos islands on eden
Cruise the Galapagos Islands for a unique view of the natural world
trip dates
detailed itinerary
Departs Weekly on Sundays
important notes
H - High Season
M - Mid Season
Note: - prices valid up to 31/12/2017. For trips departing
after this date, the price will likely increase subject to
local inflationary pressures on operational costs.
fast facts
Countries Visited:
Ecuador
Visas:
Please check visa requirements with
your reservations consultant*
Vaccinations:
Please consult a travel vaccination
specialist for up to date information
Private Groups:
Private group options are
available for this trip*
Singles:
A single supplement is available for this trip*
Leader:
Expert local leader
Brochure Reference:
The Americas
*Ask our staff for more information.
DAY 1Fly to Galapagos from Quito/Guayaquil, commence cruise
You can commence your itinerary in the city of Quito*, located in the highlands of Ecuador just
south of the equator or alternatively you may chose to commence from Guayaquil, the largest city
in Ecuador located on the banks of the Guayas River. From your starting city you fly to the Baltra
airport in the Galapagos Islands. You will then be met upon arrival and transferred to your boat to
commence your cruise. Motorised dinghy, called ‘Pangas ’will transport you to the motor yacht Eden
and our crew will welcome you on board. After departure and lunch, the first island visit is made.
Las Bachas is a white sandy beach that is a major egg-laying site for sea turtles, Las Bachas refers
to the abandoned barges by the USA navy officers. On shore are marine iguanas and in the lagoon,
flamingos are sometimes observed.
*For anyone travelling to the Galapagos Islands we recommend you arrive in Quito or Guayaquil
at least one day before your scheduled cruise in case there are flight delays or cancelations. We
strongly recommend that you do not book flights out of Quito or Guayaquil for the same day your
cruise finishes.
meals: L,D
DAY 2Genovesa (Tower) Island & Darwin’s Bay
Genovesa Island is a collapsed volcano and ships sail directly into its large breached caldera to
anchor at the foot of the steep crater walls. Tower attracts vast numbers of pelagic sea birds that
come here to nest and breed: great frigate birds, red - footed boobies, swallow-tailed gulls and
storm petrels. A trail leads from a coral beach to an area of low shrubs and red mangrove populated
by red-footed boobies and frigate birds, then along some tidal lagoons where lava gulls and yellowcrowned night herons are seen and eventually ends on a cliff edge where seabirds soar. This
afternoon climb up Prince Philip´s Steps a trail will lead you to an open area where it is common
to see masked boobies, frigates, and red - footed boobies. At the end of this trail are thousands of
wedge-rumped storm petrels at the cliff’s edge, which choose many crevices as nesting area in the
lava field. Short-eared owls can sometimes be seen here, hunting the storm petrels during daylight
hours.
NOTE: Itineraries are flexible and are subject to change according to weather, local conditions and
circumstances beyond our control. You will follow one of two itineraries however please note they
should be used as a guide only. These are offered on alternate weeks, your consultant will advise
which itinerary is scheduled to operate on your desired date.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 3Bartolome (Bartholomew) & Sullivan Bay (Santiago) Island
Bartolome is a small island that has beautiful white sandy beaches, luxuriant green
mangroves and a colony of penguins. Activities will include swimming, snorkeling,
panga rides and a climb to the summit of the island for one of the most breathe taking
views in all the Galapagos. From the summit you will have the best view of the often photographed
Pinnacle Rock. This afternoon visit Sullivan Bay (Santiago) Island. This bay is located at the East
of Santiago Island. The black lava flows here seem as if they just cooled off the day before. The
lava from Sullivan Bay is known as Pahoehoe (Hawaiian for rope). The thin lava molten material
cools down after an eruption causing the surface materials to clasp creating the shape of a rope.
Pahoehoe lava is very common to the volcanoes of the Galapagos Islands. Take a look at the
crystallized volcanic glass along the 2 km trail around the bay and the volcanic cones that were
once rocky islets before the lava flows.
meals: B,L,D
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galapagos islands on eden
Cruise the Galapagos Islands for a unique view of the natural world
DAY 4Santa Cruz (Indefatigable) Island & Black Turtle Cove
responsible travel
The environments we travel through are
fragile. It is our responsibility as visitors
to minimise the impact of our presence.
World Expeditions were the proud recipients
of the inaugural Australian National Travel
Industry’s Environmental Achievement award
for our Responsible Travel Guidebook.
This detailed guide to responsible &
sustainable travel is provided to all World
Expeditions clients before they travel.
Please ask your consultant if you have
not received your copy of our award
winning book. Alternatively, you may like
to download a copy from our website
www.worldexpeditions.com
adventure travel
By its very nature adventure travel involves
an element of the unexpected. In remote
and developing countries do not expect
standards you are used to at home. Remote
areas are sometimes unpredictable and
itineraries may be altered. To get the most
out of your adventure it is important that
you are flexible, positive and eager to
take on all the challenges that arise. If you
are uncertain about your suitability for
this trip we recommend that you speak
with your consultant of travel agent.
important note
These trip notes represent the most
current information for this itinerary,
and may supersede any information in
the current brochure, including but not
limited to the itinerary and price.
The panga will take you into a tidal lagoon to view different types of mangroves: red, white and
black. White - tipped sharks, spotted eagle rays, golden rays and green turtles frequent the waters
of this area and are common to see. This afternoon visit Dragon Hill, an area well known for the
presence of land iguana.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 5Charles Darwin Station and Highlands
Santa Cruz is one of the inhabited islands to be visited during this itinerary. Puerto
Ayora, with a population of about 25,000 people is the location of the Charles Darwin Research
Station and Galapagos National Park main headquarters world famous for their tortoise breeding
programs. After touring the Station, journey by bus to the highlands to go for a walk through the
giant lava tubes and also have the unique opportunity to see the giant tortoises in the wild quite
close to you in their natural surroundings. This afternoon is free time to explore the town of Puerto
Ayora.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 6Punta Cormorant & Post Office Bay (Floreana Island)
After breakfast, disembark at Point Cormorant (wet landing) for an easy walk to see the flamingos
that inhabit a brackish water lagoon, and other birds such as ducks, stilts and sandpipers. For
those who like water activities there is great snorkeling opportunity at Devil’s Crown an eroded
islet offshore from Punta Cormorant. This afternoon is another wet landing at the historical Post
Office Bay to learn about the human side of the islands, the early inhabitants and the story of the
first barrel. But before that a panga ride will take you to nearby islets to observe sea lions, rays, sea
turtles, boobies and possibly the Galapagos penguin.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 7Española (Hood) Island, Punta Suarez & Gardner Bay
Punta Suarez is one of the most outstanding wildlife areas of the archipelago, with a long list of
species found along its cliffs and sand or pebble beaches. The most emblematic is the Galapagos
Albatross that nests here from April to December, but apart from this huge bird this island is also
the home of the naïve Hood mockingbirds, Galapagos doves and Galapagos hawks. Several types of
reptiles, including the brilliantly colored marine iguana and the oversized lava lizard, are unique to
this island. When heavy swells are running, Punta Suarez is also the site of a spectacular blow hole,
with thundering spray shooting 30 yards in to the air. Gardner Bay is on the eastern shore and has
a magnificent beach. This white sandy beach is perfect spot for a colony of sea lions, and is also a
major nesting site for sea turtles. Around the small islets nearby, snorkelers will find lots of fish and
sometimes sea turtles and sharks.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 8Leon Dormido (San Cristóbal) Island & Kicker Rock
The main town is Puerto Baquerizo Moreno which is located south-west of the island and it is also
the capital city of the Galapagos Islands. San Cristóbal is the second most populated Island of the
Archipelago. The famous Naturalist Charles Darwin who is the author of the Origin of Species landed
at San Cristobal in 1835. Kicker Rock is located 4 miles away from San Cristóbal Island. A site in the
middle of the sea composed by 2 vertical cone shaped lava rocks with a height of 145mts from the
Ocean. These rocks form a channel that is navigable only by small boats. The snorkeling and diving
is great. Frigate birds and boobies are flying all over the rocks. The sea is crystal clear allowing you
to see many colorful tropical fish up to 15mts depth. Transfer to San Cristóbal Island airport in order
to catch your flight back to Quito or Guayaquil on the mainland. Upon arrival on the mainland your
trip concludes.
meals: B
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galapagos islands on eden
Cruise the Galapagos Islands for a unique view of the natural world
This itinerary is subject to change with any change in Community regulations as well as Governmental changes and natural circumstances beyond our control.
itinerary at a glance – Itinerary 2 Fernandina (2)
DAY 1FLY TO GALAPAGOS FROM QUITO/GUAYAQUIL, COMMENCE CRUISE
DAY 2SANTA FÉ (BARRINGTON) ISLAND & SOUTH PLAZAS ISLAND
DAY 3SANTA CRUZ (INDEFATIGABLE) ISLAND & CHARLES DARWIN RESEARCH STATION
DAY 4ISABELA, WEEPING WALLS & CENTRO CRIANZA ARMANDO TUPIZA
DAY 5ISABELA ISLAND, PUNTA MORENO & ELIZABETH BAY
DAY 6ISABELA ISLAND, CALETA TAGUS (TAGUS COVE) & FERNANDINA ISLAND, PUNTA
ESPINOZA
DAY 7SANTIAGO ISLAND, PUERTO EGAS & RÁBIDA ISLAND.
DAY 8NORTH SEYMOUR ISLAND. CRUISE CONCLUDES, FLY TO QUITO/GUAYQUIL
detailed itinerary: Itinerary 2 Fernandina (2)
DAY 1Fly to Galapagos from Quito/Guayaquil, commence cruise
You can commence your itinerary in the city of Quito, located in the highlands of Ecuador just
south of the equator or alternatively you may chose to commence from Guayaquil, the largest city
in Ecuador located on the banks of the Guayas River. From your starting city you fly to the Baltra
airport in the Galapagos Islands. You will then be met upon arrival and transferred to your boat to
commence your cruise. Motorised dinghy, called ‘Pangas ’will transport you to the motor yacht Eden
and our crew will welcome you on board. After departure and lunch, the first island visit is made. It
takes around one hour by boat from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno to get to Lobos Island.
This is a peaceful small area separated by a channel from San Cristobal Island and it is a great
place for snorkeling. After a dry landing and a short walk sea lions, marine iguanas and blue footed
boobies can be seen in different spot of the island.
NOTE: Itineraries are flexible and are subject to change according to weather, local conditions and
circumstances beyond our control. Please note the itineraries should be used as a guide only.
meals: L,D
DAY 2Santa Fé (Barrington) Island & South Plazas Island
This island, according to the latest geological studies, shows to be one of the oldest islands on the
Archipelago along with Española. The small bay on Santa Fe’s northern coast provides one of the
most photographed harbors within the archipelago. A large sea lion colony inhabits most of the
surrounding landing site and the trail takes you among very tall forest of Opuntia cacti, where large
and somewhat pale land iguanas, that are island endemics, can be seen. This island is also home
of a variety of finches, the Galapagos mockingbird and a colony of Galapagos hawks. This afternoon
we visit
South Plazas, home to a large sea lion colony as well as some swallow-tailed gull, land iguanas, lava
lizard and marine iguanas.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 3Santa Cruz (Indefatigable) Island & Charles Darwin Research Station
Santa Cruz is one of the inhabited islands to be visited during this itinerary. Puerto
Ayora, with a population of about 25,000 people is the location of the Charles Darwin Research
Station and Galapagos National Park main headquarters world famous for their tortoise breeding
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galapagos islands on eden
Cruise the Galapagos Islands for a unique view of the natural world
programs. After touring the Station, journey by bus to the highlands to go for a walk through the giant
lava tubes and also have the unique opportunity to see the giant tortoises in the wild quite close to you
in their natural surroundings. This afternoon is free time to explore the town of Puerto Ayora.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 4Isabela, Weeping walls & Centro Crianza Armando Tupiza
The Weeping Wall (Muro de las Lagrimas) and the Wetlands are located some 6km away from Puerto
Villamil., the main village of Isabela. The former are the remains of one of the tree jails that used
to function during the years of 1946 – 1959 while the latter is an area of saltwater lagoons that
provides an excellent opportunity for scenic views and wildlife observation such as flamingos. This
afternoon visit Centro Crianza Armando Tupiza, a breeding center for giant tortoises, which provides the
opportunity to observe and understand the programs of the Galapagos National Park protection that
works in conjunction with the Charles Darwin Research Station. In the Breeding Centre you can see
two of the five sub-species of giant tortoises. The center was created to protect individuals in their first
years of life from introduced animals such as pigs and donkeys.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 5Isabela Island, Punta Moreno & Elizabeth Bay
Punta Moreno is situated on the southwest portion of Isabela, one of the youngest
island of the Archipelago together with Fernandina. The panga will take you to the rocky landing
area but just before reaching this spot You will see many marine iguanas and blue-footed boobies on
the rocks. The trail here takes you over a pahoehoe flow field where the visitor can have an idea of
the birth of this Archipelago and the amount of magma that a single eruption can produce by these
volcanoes. An area where only pioneer plants live and brackish ponds or oasis of life can be found.
One of the few areas used by the flamingos to feed. This afternoon visit Elizabeth Bay by dinghy. You
will come across a small group of islets known as Mariela that are frequented by Galapagos penguin.
Because this area is so sheltered from the currents you can find other species such as green turtles
and rays.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 6Isabela Island, Caleta Tagus (Tagus Cove) & Fernandina Island, Punta Espinoza
Caleta Tagus (Tagus Cove) is a natural harbor where for centuries, whalers and pirates left their ship’s
names painted or carved on the rocks. Take a walk uphill to Darwin’s Crater salt-water lake for a
superb view of the bay and other Isabela volcanoes. A trip along the shoreline will let you see penguins,
flightless cormorants, boobies, pelicans and sally light foot crabs. This afternoon visit Fernandina
Island. Fernandina is the most western island of the entire Archipelago and the youngest as well, but
has an abundance of life. Marine iguanas can be found in their thousands. Sea lions especially big
bulls are found resting on the beach as well as females with pups. Galapagos hawk juveniles and
adults surround this area and can be spotted (with a bit of luck).
meals: B,L,D
DAY 7Santiago Island, Puerto Egas & Rábida Island.
Puerto Egas is located on the west side of Santiago one of the central island of the Archipelago where
fresh water can also be found. On entering the Bay you will have the opportunity to see the Buccaneer
Cove, the Sugarloaf cone and the black beach of Puerto Egas. The latter is where we disembark to start
the visit. The trail will take you through some tidal pools along the coast where you can see marine
iguanas, coastal birds such as the oyster-catcher and pelicans. This is also one of the few places
where you will have the opportunity to observe Galapagos fur seals. This afternoon visit Rábida Island.
Rábida lies off the southern shoreline of Santiago. The trail here takes you from the beach to a salt
water lagoon and wonderful viewpoint from the cliffs.
meals: B,L,D
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galapagos islands on eden
Cruise the Galapagos Islands for a unique view of the natural world
DAY 8North Seymour Island. Cruise concludes, fly to Quito/Guayquil
An early morning disembark (dry landing) for a walk along the coast and the interior of the island,
observing bird colonies of blue-footed boobies, frigate birds, swallow tailed gulls and also sea lions,
marine iguanas and land iguanas. Transfer to Baltra airport in order to catch your flight back to Quito or
Guayaquil on the mainland. Upon arrival on the mainland your trip concludes.
meals: B
This itinerary is subject to change with any change in Community regulations as well as Governmental changes and natural circumstances beyond our control.
boat cruise
The Eden
Set sail aboard our ‘Tourist Superior’ motor yacht. The shaded lounge on the bridge is the
ideal area to relax with your fellow passengers and enjoy the sights, maybe soaking up some
equatorial sun, or perhaps reading with the wind in your hair and salt in the air. Alternatively,
make use of the loungers forward of the bridge. Within her air conditioned and appealing
decorated interior is a lounge with a connecting dining area/bar serving buffet style Ecuadorean
inspired cuisine. The Eden accommodates just 16 passengers. Her 8 double cabins, all with
private bathrooms, bunk beds and hot water. Exploration does not have to end at the shoreline
as the Eden is fully equipped with snorkelling gear equipment.
Technical Specifications: Type : Motor Yacht. Steel hull, built in 1996. Category : Tourist
Superior: 16 passengers L.O.A. : 88.9 feet/25.40 meters. Beam: 21.35 feet/6.10 meters.
Speed: 9 knots cruising. Engines: Two Detroit diesel (6/71 – 180 HP c/u) Equipment: 220/110
volt. AC, 2x20 kw KOHLER, freezer and refrigerator, TV and DVD player. Fully air‑conditioned
Safety Equipment: 24 Mile Furuno, Radar, GPS, compasses, Epirb, VHF radio, HF radio. Safety
equipment complies with international Coast Guard regulations. Guest Accommodation: 8
cabins; 3 cabins with bunk beds, 1 cabin with a double bed, 4 cabins with twin lower beds.
Each cabin is provided with private facilities (private bathroom, hot / cold water, and central air
condition). Comfortable dining room, ample social areas, bar, mini library, TV, DVD, complete
snorkel equipment (mask, tube, fins), ample sundeck, and a desalination machine. Crew: seven
members plus, multilingual naturalist guide.
suggested extensions
Ecuador Experience
country information
Ecuador has a population of close to 14 million people. It is made up of pure‑blooded Indians
(approx 40%) whose forebears were the Incas and speak Quechua. Over time, these people
have developed sub‑groups according to their locality and with it, their own language and
culture. The balance of the population is basically made up of Mestizos ‑ a mixture of Spanish
and Indian stock, many of whom live in urban/city areas. Approximately half the population lives
in the coastal areas and Galapagos, and the other half in the highlands. Ecuador has an area of
283,520 square kms (a little larger than the state of Victoria) and is situated on the Equator on
the Pacific coast of South America. Its capital, Quito, at 2850 metres, is located in the highlands
and makes an ideal base for our trip. With a population of 1.8 million, it is a city rich in history
with well‑preserved colonial architecture in the old part of town, and modern developments in
the new area. Guayaquil is an important port city for the country, with a population similar to that
of Quito. The country’s main exports are oil, bananas, shrimp and various agricultural products.
Official languages are Spanish and Quechua. The form of government is a republic that is
democratically elected, headed by a president. Geographically, Ecuador is extremely varied but
can be divided into three distinct regions which each have a dry and a wet season. The coastal
lowlands and Galapagos Islands are basically warm and tropical. To the east is the tropical
rainforest of the upper Amazon basin known as the Oriente. It is however, the Central Highland
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Cruise the Galapagos Islands for a unique view of the natural world
region, with high mountains and fertile valleys that is of greatest interest to us on our visit. Much
of the population is located in this region, as well the snowcapped volcanoes that run in the
form of a ladder down the length of the country. The eastern and western cordilleras (mountain
ranges) contain a total of thirty volcanoes of varying seismic activity and size. The valleys in
between provide access to our climbs and treks as well as a cultural insight into the various
indigenous groups throughout the country.
climate
Ecuador has an amazing variation in weather and seasons and is unpredictable; largely as a
result of its tropical and coastal location, and geographic diversity. Galapagos temperatures and
weather patterns are very variable and cannot be easily forecast. The coolest season is from
June to November. The wet season from November to February brings rain, high temperatures
and humidity. March to May brings moderate temperatures and mainly clear skies. Temperatures
are generally mild to hot.
a typical day
This volcanic archipelago consists of 13 major and 6 minor islands plus 42 islets, which all
possess an untamed beauty and enchantment giving the impression that you are on another
planet. Rising from the floor of the Pacific Ocean up to 1,700 metres, the islands are a
naturalist’s paradise, with more than 875 species or varieties of plants and a fish population of
289 species from 88 families, many of them unique to the area. You are able to enjoy swimming
with Galapagos fur seals, and revel in the sights of breeding colonies of sea lions, land and
marine iguanas, lava lizards, penguins (the most northerly in the world), pelicans and flamingos.
There are just 8 different land mammals but due to the isolation of the islands and the lack of
hunting and predatory animals these few are unafraid of man. Birdwatchers get a special treat
in being able to see at remarkably close range up to 89 species of birds. We also see Swallow
tailed gulls, blue & red footed boobies, frigate birds, Darwin’s finches, warblers, mockingbirds,
flycatchers and the strange flightless cormorant. Every day we are woken early for breakfast
on board before taking the dinghy to walk along the beaches or onto the well marked trails on
the islands. We are accompanied at all times by our onboard naturalist guides who also give
us comprehensive lectures and debriefings after each day’s cruise and island visits. Distances
between the islands vary greatly. Some days we could be motoring for no more than 2 hours
whereas on other days we will cover greater distances and 5 or 6 hours of cruising (sometimes
at night ‑ depending on sea conditions). The itineraries are designed to make maximum use of
the generally smaller vessels we use and therefore the advantage of a shallow draught and the
greater accessibility this allows to some of the smaller islands and coves.
Our vessels anchor off shore at two sites per day. The sailors ferry our passengers to the landing
sites in “pangas” (local expression for dinghy). These landings are either “wet” or “dry”. At wet
landings you will step from the panga into the water and wade to shore. The guide and sailor
are there to assist you at all landings. Once on shore, you will follow marked trails set up by
the National Park. Your guide will lead these excursions, interpreting and explaining the natural
history as you walk along. The shore visits are done at a leisurely pace, allowing plenty of time
to enjoy and photograph the amazing wildlife and scenery. You will spend 2 to 4 hours at each
site. There is often an opportunity to swim and snorkel after the morning visit and sometimes
before the afternoon excursion. Our detailed pre departure information, provided on booking,
will help you to prepare for your trip and includes a list of clothing and equipment suitable for
the conditions you’ll encounter.
dietary requirements
Provided we are advised in advance of your departure we are able to cater for vegetarian diets
and can assist with medically recommended diets (allergies and intolerances). Please ensure
you discuss your requirements with us well in advance (at least 1 month prior to your trip) to
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galapagos islands on eden
Cruise the Galapagos Islands for a unique view of the natural world
determine whether we can cater to such dietary requirements on your chosen adventure. Please
note that options are likely to be limited in very remote locations or alternatives may be more
expensive or unavailable. There may be times when those with special requirements may need
to provide their own food. We are unable to guarantee a peanut‑free or allergen‑free trip, and
therefore, we strongly encourage that travellers with life‑threatening or severe allergies take
all necessary medical precautions to prepare for the possibility of exposure. Passengers must
travel with all necessary medications for food allergies and be capable of self‑administering
these medications.
accommodation on the trip
The Eden has 8 cabins; upper berths and one matrimonial cabin, all with private facilities and
fully air conditioned.
what you carry
In your daypack you will need to carry extra warm clothing (depending on the altitude, location
and weather), a rainjacket, water bottle, camera gear, valuables and personal items such as
sunscreen, lip‑eze etc.
equipment required
Specialist gear required include walking boots and day pack (a comprehensive gear list is
provided in the pre‑departure information provided on booking).
non exclusive trips
This itinerary is not exclusive to World Expeditions. Whilst in the Galapagos you will be
accompanied by local expert naturalist guides who may conduct the tour in English and other
languages. You may be with other people from other operators worldwide in a group.
wildlife
This volcanic archipelago consists of 13 major and 6 minor islands plus 42 islets, which all
possess an untamed beauty and enchantment giving the impression that you are on another
planet. Rising from the floor of the Pacific Ocean up to 1,700 metres, the islands are a
naturalist’s paradise, with more than 875 species or varieties of plants and a fish population of
289 species from 88 families, many of them unique to the area. You are able to enjoy swimming
with Galapagos fur seals, and revel in the sights of breeding colonies of sea lions, land and
marine iguanas, lava lizards, penguins (the most northerly in the world), pelicans and flamingos.
There are just 8 different land mammals but due to the isolation of the islands and the lack of
hunting and predatory animals these few are unafraid of man. Birdwatchers get a special treat
in being able to see at remarkably close range up to 89 species of birds. We also see Swallow
tailed gulls, blue & red footed boobies, frigate birds, Darwin’s finches, warblers, mockingbirds
flycatchers and the strange flightless cormorant.
vehicles & safety
During the course of your trip, we will use a variety of vehicles, all of which are fit for purpose
and the conditions encountered. It should be noted that laws governing transportation safety
may differ from those in your home country and on occasion some vehicles may not have
seat belts fitted. While game viewing within a national park could be one example, public bus
transfers or specialised transport such as ‘tuk‑tuk’s’ could be another. Where seat belts are not
provided we strongly recommend that you hold tight to a fixed part of the vehicle at all times.
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galapagos islands on eden
Cruise the Galapagos Islands for a unique view of the natural world
what’s not included
Airport transfers on the mainland
International flights and airport taxes
Use of wetsuits on cruise (can be rented onboard at approx $30 USD for an 8 day trip)
Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
Bottled water, aerated and alcoholic drinks
Travel insurance
Medical treatment
visas
A visa is exempt for passport holders from the following countries visiting Ecuador for short term
tourism purposes:‑
Australia
New Zealand
Canada
United States
United Kingdom
If you are travelling via any other countries en‑route to Ecuador please ask your reservations
consultant/travel agent about any other necessary visa requirements.
All other nationalities should check with your nearest embassy or consulate.
Please bear in mind that visas may be required for countries you are visiting en route or
transiting through on the way to your destination. It is important that you check the requirements
of all countries you will visit. Visa costs and requirements do change regularly so we suggest
you check with your travel agent or World Expeditions reservations consultant. It is your
responsibility to obtain all necessary visas.
info nights
World Expeditions invites you to attend our inspiring adventure travel slide shows. These special
evenings are designed to inform and entertain and are hosted by our most experienced and
passionate adventure travellers and mountaineers. Ask our staff for a slide show schedule or
register on our website ‑ www.worldexpeditions.com. Shows can fill early so it is important to
register your attendance so we know to save a seat, or two!
private groups
The adventures featured in our brochures, and on our website, are just a starting point for
many of our private group travellers. Working closely with our Groups Department we can
organise custom designed itineraries for groups of friends, clubs, charity’s, schools or even
work colleagues. Our team will assist you with all aspects of your private group adventure from
itinerary design to group flights. Contact our team today.
subscribe to our e-newsletter
Subscribe to our enewsletter! To keep up to date with our new and exciting adventure
opportunities, special promotions and adventure news, subscribe to our monthly enewsletter!
You can do this online through our website, www.worldexpeditions.com or contact our office.
social networking
Follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/WorldExpeditions
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galapagos islands on eden
Cruise the Galapagos Islands for a unique view of the natural world
trip availability
If this trip seems right for you then we encourage you to call us now to check availability as we
operate strictly small group adventures. Many of our adventures require us to secure services
on your behalf; such as permits, hotels and flights to name but a few. The demand for these
services is increasing each year making it difficult to join a trip last minute. To ensure we can
assist you onto your adventure of a lifetime we ask that you check your trip availability with our
team at your earliest convenience.
how to book
To book a World Expeditions trip, you will need to complete a booking form which is found at
the back of our brochure or can be downloaded from our website www.worldexpeditions.com.
On completion, fax or post the form to your nearest World Expeditions office along with your
non‑refundable deposit. World Expeditions has access to competitive airfares to Morocco.
Call your nearest World Expeditions office or travel agent for assistance with your travel
arrangements including flights, travel insurance and additional accommodation.
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