The Wonders of the Galapagos Islands and Ecuador's Andes
A Galapagos Photo Tour and Workshop with Boyd Norton
April 23 - May 3, 2010
(11 days) with a maximum of 10 participantsOptional Extension to Photograph Remote Villages and Scenery of Ecuadorian Andes:
May 3 - 8, 2010
Click here to download a PDF brochure of the trips
Galapagos - Land of Evolutions
on board a superior motor yachtExtension To The Avenue of Volcanoes Ecuador
This extraordinary journey begins in Quito, Ecuador and continues to the Galapagos Islands. This is the perfect trip for individuals who want to combine natural history with Andean cultural heritage. You will begin with a day of cultural discovery at the Otavalo Market. The following day, you will set out to explore the Galapagos Islands. Your English-speaking naturalist guide will make your experience both fun and educational since you will have ample time to learn about the evolutionary and geological significance of the islands while still having the opportunity to relax, enjoy the warm Ecuadorian sun, and snorkel and swim in the pristine turquoise waters. During this once-in-a-life-time experience you will have the opportunity to view extraordinary wild life, many of them endemic, including species such as: the marine iguana, 7 species of lava lizards, two species of land iguanas, Galapagos sea lion, giant tortoise, Galapagos Fur Seal, Pacific green sea turtle, bottlenose dolphin, and over 100 species of birds. Some of the bird species include the blue-footed booby, brown pelican, masked booby, red-footed booby, frigate birds, Galapagos Hawk, lava gull, Galapagos dove and thirteen finch species made famous by Charles Darwin. Marine life is also abundant and those interested in snorkeling can view numerous species of fish and mammals including Galapagos fur seals, tropical fish, and manta rays. Since much of the islands existence has to do with relatively recent volcanic activity, visitors can have the opportunity to witness the slow creation of these islands and to observe lava flows as recent as 100 years.
The second portion of your journey will begin in Colonial Quito, a World Heritage Site, where you will visit the historical sites and museums. The next day we begin a journey into one of Ecuador's more remote regions, the Province of Bolivar. Here we visit the lower slopes of Mt. Chimborazo (20,800 feet) and for the next few days see and photograph villages and markets rarely visited by tourists.
ITINERARY - Galapagos Islands Main Trip
Day 1 - April 23 Arrival in Quito (Friday)
Arrival in Quito, Ecuador. Meet Mondo Verde Expeditions representative and Boyd Norton. Transfer to hotel for overnight. Meals aloft.
Day 2 - April 24 Otavalo Market (Saturday)
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Otavalo Market: Depart Quito early in the morning to arrive at the market as early as possible. We enjoy a typical lunch at the Hosteria Chorlavi. On our way back to Quito, we stop at the small towns of Calderon, Cotacachi and San Antonio de Ibarra.
B,L (Note: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner)
Day 3 – April 25 Galapagos (Sunday) San Cristobal / Playa Ochoa / Leon Dormido
Transfer back to airport for flight to Galapagos. Upon arrival to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, SAN CRISTOBAL Island, our crew is waiting at the airport to escort you to your anchored yacht. After the welcome briefing and safety drill we set sail for Playa Ochoa, where we have a chance to test our snorkeling equipment and at the same time swim with a small colony of sea lions. Behind the beach, there is a tidal lagoon where bird can be spotted including the rare Chatham mockingbird. At sunset, we cruise around Kicker Rock (Leon Dormido), a vertical tuff cone formation that abruptly juts up almost 500 feet out of the ocean. On the cliffs, we find blue-footed boobies, masked boobies and magnificent frigate birds.
B,L,D
Please take note: the following itinerary may change slightly due to the National Park rules and scheduling. Be assured that we will be visiting many of the fabulous islands here but that the order in which we visit them may be altered.
Day 4 – April 26 Galapagos (Monday) : Darwin Bay/ Prince Philip’s Steps, Tower
We spend the entire day on TOWER (Genovesa), considered to be one of the most spectacular Islands in Galapagos for bird species. This morning, we have a dry landing at Prince Philip’s Steps. Red-footed boobies nest here in Palo Santo trees and Nazca (formerly masked) boobies nest near the trail. In an open lava field, we find storm petrels in large numbers. If you are lucky, we will see the elusive short-eared owl.
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After lunch, sea kayaks are available to paddle along the shoreline. Look for the beautiful red-billed tropic bird usually seen in a crevice. A snorkeling opportunity is offered along the inner rim of the volcanic crater. We land on Darwin Bay, a coral sand beach where swallow-tailed and lava gulls gather near the tide pools. Enter a forest of Optuntia cactus and mangroves where colonies of great frigate birds nest. The males inflate their red-throated pouches to attract females as they fly overhead. The trail leads through a rich inter tidal zone where we find a wide diversity of animal life. Swim from the beach with sea lions.
B,L,D
Day 5 – April 27 Galapagos (Tuesday) Bachas Beach/ North Seymour
This morning, we visit Las Bachas, which is the Spanish translation
for “barges”. There is a long stretch of a soft white-sand beach
and interior lagoons where we find the Greater Flamingo. There is
also a wonderful chance to snorkel here from the beach. Remnants of
the U.S. presence from World War II – a floating pier - is found
here.
This afternoon, we disembark on North Seymour, a small geological
uplift. After a dry landing, we follow a trail that leads us to
swallow-tailed gulls, blue-footed boobies and the endemic land
iguanas. Visit the largest colony of magnificent frigate birds found
in Galapagos. As we stroll along the beach, sea lions body surfing
the northern swells.
B,L,D
Day 6 – April 28 Galapagos (Wednesday) Tagus Cove, Isabela / Punta Espinoza, Fernandina
This morning, we visit Tagus Cove, located on the western Island of ISABELA. Six volcanoes flowed together and formed the largest Island in Galapagos. On our walk, we discover a salt-water lagoon, a scenic overlook with a spectacular view of the ocean, lava fields and volcanic formations. Graffiti dating back to the 1800's is written on the rocky cliffs. Explore the Cove in pangas or sea kayaks to find Galapagos penguins, boobies, pelicans and other seabirds. After lunch, we cross the Bolivar Canal. Be on the look out for whales and dolphins riding the bow wave.
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We disembark at Punta Espinoza, FERNANDINA, the youngest and most pristine Island found in Galapagos. Hundreds of marine iguanas, the largest colony in Galapagos, bask in the sun along the rugged shoreline. Observe sea lion harems with resident bulls carefully guarding their territory. Flightless Cormorants build their nest on the point and Galapagos Hawks fly overhead. Recent lava flows formed by an active volcano stretch their way around the coast. A snorkel here provides opportunities to see many sea turtles.
B,L,D
Day 7 – April 29 Galapagos (Thursday) Puerto Egas, Santiago/ Bartolome
This morning, stroll along the shore at Puerto Egas, SANTIAGO (James) looking for octopus, starfish and other sea life caught in the tide pools. At low tide, catch a glimpse of marine iguanas as they feed on exposed green algae. Watch for great blue herons, lava herons, American oystercatchers and yellow-crowned night herons. Our walk ends at the grottos, deep pools of clear water where we encounter fur sea lions once on the verge of extinction. Before returning to the yacht, there is a snorkeling opportunity with loads of tropical fish.
On Bartolome, it seems like we are walking on the moon. This young Island is inhospitable to most plants and animals. After a dry landing, climb 30 minutes up stairs leading to the summit of a once active volcano. Along the way, we pause to marvel at lava bombs, spatter cones and cinder cones. From the top of the wooden stairs, we can gaze out across the island for a panoramic view of the island and "Pinnacle Rock", an eroded tuff cone. Down below, crystal clear water is an invitation to snorkel with schools of tropical fish and Galapagos Penguins. On the other side of the Island, encounter sea turtles and white-tipped sharks.
B,L,D
Day 8 – April 30 Galapagos (Friday) Darwin Station / Highlands, Santa Cruz
Friday is feeding day at the tortoise corals at the Charles Darwin Research Station. We visit all three tortoise corals and the breeding center with new hatchlings and miniature tortoises not yet ready to be repatriated. Scientists from all over the globe work at the station and conduct biological research from anatomy to zoology. We also visit the Van Straelen Hall where there are exhibits and a short video presentation. Visitors can now see the pen of Lonesome George, the last surviving member of the Pinta Island subspecies.
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After lunch on board, we travel by bus to the highlands of SANTA
CRUZ Island. The scenery gradually
changes as we wind our way through all seven vegetation zones found
in Galapagos. From June to January, we can find giant tortoises on a
private farm in the highlands. We visit Los Gemelos, Spanish for
“The Twins”, a pair of large pit craters where we find the bright
red male vermilion flycatcher. We stop at "the tunnels", the
largest lava tubes found in Galapagos. Stroll through the town of Puerto Ayora (population: 15,000) the largest town in the
Galapagos. Buy souvenirs, mail postcards or kick back at an
internet cafe in the social heart of the Islands.
B,L,D
Day 9 - May 1 Galapagos (Saturday) Gardner Bay / Punta Suarez, Espanola (Hood)
This morning, step onto Gardner Bay, ESPANOLA (HOOD). Walk along seemingly endless stretches of sandy beach where you’ll find large colonies of sea lions. There is no trail to follow so this is a chance to explore and you may find a Galapagos Hawk, Darwin’s Finches or Hood Mockingbird. Swim with sea lions from the beach. There’s an excellent snorkeling site off Gardner Islet with a colorful diversity of sea life near Gardner Islet and Tortuga Rock with caves covered with invertebrates.
This afternoon, we disembark at Punta Suarez, ESPANOLA, where we witness the highest rate of endemic species in Galapagos. Sea lions noisily green us as we land on their beach. Curious Hood mockingbirds peck at our shoelaces. From April to November, the waved albatross, found only on Espanola, perform their wild mating ritual. Colonies of blue-footed boobies engage in “sky-pointing” to show off for potential mates. Nazca (formerly masked) boobies busily care for their young. Stunning swallow-tailed gulls are the only nocturnal gulls in the world. Red-billed tropicbirds take shelter under the cliffs. We also find Darwin’s Finches, Galapagos Doves and Galapagos Hawks. Observe a unique specie of marine iguana identified with traces of red and green colorings. Colorful sally light-foot crabs crawl along the shoreline near to the famous "blow hole".
B,L,D
Day 10 –
May 2 Galapagos (Sunday) Interpretation Center/ San Cristobal/ QuitoThis morning, we drop anchor in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, SAN CRISTOBAL. We visit the Interpretation Center opened in 1999. Here we gain a more complete understanding of the natural and human history of the Islands. Afterwards, we head straight to the airport for our flight back to Quito. Depending on your air arrangements, most will stay at the airport for the late night flight back to the U.S. Those staying for the Extension will transfer to hotel for overnight. Dinner at the hotel on your own.
B,L
Day 11 – May 3 Arrival in the morning in USA
Trip Cost: $5495 based on double occupancy and 10 client minimum and maximum. The trip will not be run with less than 10 participants. Single accomodations are VERY expensive, nearly equal to the cost given; if you are traveling alone we urge you to bring along a friend to share the boat cabin. Also, prices may be subject to change based on fuel surcharges by the boat operator and internal airline. A 50% deposit per person is required to register. The balance is due 90 days before the trip begins.
To register for this trip, go to this web page: www.mondove.com/register1.html. Be sure to enter the trip (Galapagos) and dates (April 23 - May 3, 2010). Payments should be in U.S. Dollars (USD).
To contact us
email: barb@mondove.com
phone: 303-674-3009 (Boyd & Barb Norton); 877-870-0578 (Mondo Verde Expeditions, Toll Free)
To make payment by check, send to Mondo Verde Expeditions, PO Box 2605, Evergreen, CO 80437.
To make payment by credit card using secure online form, go to www.mondove.com and click on "Login" at the bottom of the page. Add an additional 5% USD for credit card payment.
TRIP DIFFICULTY: Journey requires moderate walking along trails and sufficient mobility to board small boats in variable land and sea conditions. In the Galapagos several islands require "wet landings" meaning passengers must step out of a small zodiac in shallow water in order to reach the beach. Passengers are not required to go out on every outing and have the option to remain on board the large boat to relax. Travelers with heart conditions and high blood pressure should consult their physician before traveling at high altitude (Quito & Otavalo)
TRIP COSTS INCLUDE: All hotel accommodations based on double occupancy. Roundtrip airfare Quito to Galapagos (As noted above there may be a fuel surcharge added). Galapagos park and transit fees. Cabin accommodation, all meals and snacks on the boat, non-alcoholic beverages, mineral water, Captain's welcome and farewell cocktail, guide services, shore excursions, use of wet suits, snorkeling equipment and sea kayaks, transfers in the Islands between the airport and dock. Other meals as specified in the itinerary, entrance fees, transfers, and English speaking guides. B=Breakfast; L= Lunch; D=Dinner.
NOT INCLUDED: Does not include international airfares, airport departure taxes or visa fees, meals not specified, tips and gratuities, excess baggage charges, alcoholic beverages, insurance of any kind.
Avenue of the Volcanoes Extension
May 2 to May 7, 2010
Day 10 - May 2
Galapagos to Quito or Guayaquil (Sunday) Interpretation Center/ San Cristobal/Lima, Peru
This morning, we drop anchor in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, SAN CRISTOBAL. We visit the Interpretation Center opened in 1999. Here we gain a more complete understanding of the natural and human history of the Islands. Afterwards, we head straight to the airport for our flight back to the mainland. After arrival in Quito we transfer to hotel for overnight.
B,L
Day 11- May 3 (Monday) Colonial Quito
Our full day guided excursion begins with exploring Colonial Quito, including bustling San Francisco Square, the incredible gold-leafed La Compania church, hidden cloisters and more surprises while walking around the city with your guide. Not only that, today we will experience the “changing of the guard” ceremony at Plaza Grande. Then it is off to the north for our first lunch at the brim of an extinct volcanic crater. In the afternoon we have a comprehensive lecture at our exclusive Solar Museum straddling the equator where unusual interactive experiments will prove you are standing on the zero latitude line. This will also be an excellent opportunity to better understand Ecuador’s geographical and climatic environment as an introduction to what will be experienced in the following days. Overnight at Hotel Sebastian (BL).
Day 12 May 4 (Tuesday) Quito / Chimborazo / Bolivar region
One of the most remote regions in Ecuador is the Province of Bolivar, located in the heart of the country and off the main highway, always bypassed by most travelers. This morning we leave very early, via of the Avenue of Volcanoes and head south to the land where in the early 19th century the famous German naturalist and explorer, Alexander von Humboldt, visited the foothills of Mt Chimborazo, at 6,310 meters, one of the highest peaks in the Andes. We then head southwest, up and down an old cobblestone and dirt road, to a remote village which time has seemed to forgotten. We are guests at a simple but delightful lodge run by the local indigenous community with private rooms and an adjacent bathroom. This region still remain today a unique place for photography with hardly a foreign traveler to be seen, hence the reason why there are no fancy accommodations for the “typical or average”. However what is to be seen well than compensates any creature comforts that might be lacking. After a home-cooked dinner, we will enjoy some informal conversation and get our gear ready for tomorrow’s cultural experience (BLD}.
Day 13 May 5 (Wednesday) Bolivar region & remote market / Baños region
We have a very early wake-up and breakfast before walking to the weekly market at this village, where we will be able to see the natives slowly arriving from the foothills and surrounding valleys with their produce and animals for this fair, quite different from anything seen previously in Otavalo. From the most strategic spots, you can photograph to your heart content given that these natives do not normally see outsiders and are thus oblivious about getting their pictures taken - what could be termed as a “cultural Galapagos”! At around 11 am we gather our gear and backtrack up the mountain in our trusty vehicle and now head east, towards the region of Baños located on the lower foothills of Mt Tungurahua, one of Ecuador’s most active and attractive volcanoes and from where this province gets its name. We will overnight at a lodge with a front view of this Andean giant that from time to time sends out lava and volcanic ash into the sky. Of course, we hope to be lucky with the weather to see this natural spectacle! Here we overnight at a quaint lodge with more of the modern-day conveniences (BLD).
Day 14 May 6 (Thursday) Baños region / Riobamba
We descend into the Pastaza River canyon for a glimpse of the eastern cloud forest, seeing rushing rivers and streams and cascades that eventually make their way into the immense Amazon basin. Via a cable car we will have great photo ops. We then return to the main road and continue to the town of Riobamba where the first Constitution was written in the 19th century. In the distance, Mt Chimborazo, at 6.310 meters above sea level, again casts its shadow over this colonial town. En route, the most fertile of Andean fields will be seen for great photographic opportunities. We overnight at a local lodge in the outskirts of town (BLD).
Day 15 May 7 (Friday) Riobamba / Devil´s Nose Train / Quito
We have a very early wake-up and breakfast before embarking on a fabulous train trip that will take us past villages overlooked by the Pan American Highway and local people dressed in bursting colors waving at you at each station. Now at 2.700 meters above sea level, we will reach an impressive stretch of the train track, where a 300-meter descent is achieved by three amazing switchbacks in just a few kilometers. After a home-cooked lunch, we backtrack to Quito for an early evening arrival with more photo ops on the way and in time for your return flight to the States that evening (BL).
Day 16 May 8 (Saturday) Arrive back in U.S. for connecting flights home.
Avenue of Volcanoes Extension Cost: US$ 1995 based on double occupancy 4 client minimum. The trip will not be run with less than 4 participants. Also, prices may be subject to change based on possible fuel surcharges. A 50% deposit per person is required to register. The balance is due 90 days before the trip begins. Single accomodations are possible on this extension; contact us for pricing.
To register for this trip, go to this web page: www.mondove.com/register1.html. Be sure to enter the trip (Ecuador) and dates (May 3-7, 2010). Payments should be in U.S. Dollars (USD).
To make payment by check, send to Mondo Verde Expeditions, PO Box 2605, Evergreen, CO 80437.
To make payment by credit card using secure online form, go to www.mondove.com and click on "Login" at the bottom of the page. Add an additional 3% USD for credit card payment.
To contact us
email: barb@mondove.com
phone: 303-674-3009 (Boyd & Barb Norton); 877-870-0578 (Mondo Verde Expeditions, Toll Free)
TRIP DIFFICULTY: Travelers with heart conditions and high blood pressure should consult their physician before traveling at high altitude (Cuzco and Sacred Valley).
INCLUDES: All hotel accommodations based on double occupancy. Meals as specified in the itinerary, entrance fees, transfers, and English speaking guides. B=Breakfast; L= Lunch; D=Dinner.
NOT INCLUDED: Does not include international airfare, airport departure taxes or visa fees, meals not specified, tips and gratuities, excess baggage charges, alcoholic beverages, insurance of any kind.
All photos © Boyd Norton; all rights reserved
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Boyd Norton