Ultimate Galapagos

Indulge in a pampering cruise around the Galapagos Islands and experience the unique wildlife from the Origin & Theory, a luxurious ship with highly specialized naturalist guides. Combined your cruise with a stay on land at the spectacularly located Pikaia Lodge, where giant tortoises can be found roaming in this highland paradise.

1. Fly to Quito

2. Days 1-3: Quito

   Two nights in Quito affords plenty of time to take in all of the key sites of Ecuador's charming capital. Stay at the beautiful Casa Gangotena for the duration and explore the charming old town with a specialist guide, focusing on the history of this colonial capital, rich in religious scandal and filled with ornate churches and grand mansions. In the evenings there are optional activities provided by the hotel should you wish for a more in-depth visit; enjoy chocolate tasting or try your hand at making the house drink, ‘Agua de frescos’. Alternatively, there are numerous good restaurants and bars abuzz with a mix of tourists and locals and serving up delicious local and international menus. Take the ‘Teleferico’ cable car to enjoy unparalleled views over the city’s rooftops and surrounding volcanoes – you can even enjoy horse riding and hiking at the top, or simply relax and enjoy a picnic and the stunning scenery below.

   Accommodation: Casa Gangotena (2 nights)

3. Days 3-6: Galapagos

   Upon departing Quito, a 2.5 hour flight brings you to the Galapagos Islands where you can experience up-close encounters with the endemic wildlife from the moment you step on shore until the moment you depart, creating a magical environment which can be explored by cruise or as part of a land-based stay. We suggest three nights at the luxurious Pikaia Lodge, located on the island of Santa Cruz which is one of the few hospitable islands amongst this volcanic archipelago, before jumping on a cruise, which allows you to truly maximize your experience.

   Pikaia Lodge boats a spectacularly remote location perched up on a hillside and has its own boat which allows you to take day trips out to the islands while returning in the evening for a dash of luxury and relaxation. This offers a perfect introduction to the wildlife and landscapes of the Galapagos before you go further afield as part of a luxurious expedition cruise. Your stay can be fully-inclusive of meals and activities, or as part of a more flexible package to suit your style of travel.

   Accommodation: Pikaia Lodge (3 nights)

4. Days 6-13: Galapagos

   From here, spend a week on board the Origin or Theory, the most luxurious small expedition vessel operating in the islands. Follow in Darwin’s footsteps as you encounter rare marine iguanas, giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, penguins, sea lions and manta rays. Nothing will prepare you for such a close encounter with nature. Stroll over incredible lava flows spotting unique flora and fauna and snorkel with the rich marine life.

   Accommodation: Origin & Theory (7 nights)

5. Fly home

• Full day Scuba Diving from Santa Cruz Island

  Scuba diving in the Galapagos is world-class, thanks to the abundance of tame marine life. You will typically come up lose with large rays, green turtles, sea lions and schools of sharks. The diving is suitable for intermediate and experienced divers.

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• Mountain biking Santa Cruz

  Enjoy a full-day mountain biking adventure and explore the volcanic landscape of the Galapagos Islands, encountering wildlife and speeding down rugged paths for a fun-filled alternative to the sea-based activities.

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• Panoramic Quito at night with dinner

  Soak in the city sights on this drive through tour of Quito, as the city's beautiful plazas are lit in vivid hues adding a magical feel to this already charming capital. Ascend one of the surrounding hills for superb views and enjoy a delicious dinner.

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Quito & Galapagos