Your 10-day tour through Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands will undoubtedly be a memorable one. Enjoy the sightseeing and spectacular views in Quito, then board your cruise yacht for an unforgettable excursion through the many Galápagos islands, which offer some of the best wildlife viewing in the world. 

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 - Quito

Fly to Quito. Arrive late this evening and meet your Go Ahead representative.

Day 2 - Quito

A professional local guide leads this morning’s sightseeing tour of Quito. Take in spectacular views of the Valley of Tumbaco. Then pass Catholic University, the Legislative Palace, Independence Square, the Government Palace and El Sagrario Church as you venture through the streets of the Old Town. Stop for a visit to the enormous 16th-century San Francisco Monastery. Continue through the Old Town to La Compañia, the city’s exquisite baroque church. This afternoon, take an included journey to the Equatorial Line monument. Enjoy an included dinner with the rest of your tour group this evening. (B, D)

Day 3 - Galapagos Islands

This morning, fly to Baltra Island, gateway to the Galápagos. Board your cruise, the Galápagos Legend, following in the footsteps of Charles Darwin. Depart on dinghies for a dry landing visit to Bartolomé Island. Gaze up at the island’s volcanic formations, including lava bombs, spatter and cinder cones. Hike 365 steps to the summit for wildlife sightings and spectacular views of the surrounding islands. Hike back down to Pinnacle Rock to see its sea lions and penguins and nesting sea turtles (in season). Then enjoy a snorkeling excursion. (B, D)

Day 4 - Galapagos Islands

Voyage to Isabella Island today, made up of six ancient volcanoes that merged into a single landmass. You’ll sail to Urbina Bay, located at the foot of Alcedo Volcano. Look out for land iguanas during an onshore hike, followed by a snorkeling excursion. Reach Fernandina Island for a look at Punta Espinosa, a geologic site formed by a vertical tectonic shift. Turtles and sharks surround the point, and groups of marine iguana gather here. (B, L, D)

Day 5 - Galapagos Islands

Travel to Santiago Island for a wet landing at Puerto Egas, a bay of black-sand beaches and unique rock formations. On your hike, you’ll see fur sea lions before enjoying the day’s first snorkeling trip. This afternoon, go on a deep sea snorkeling excursion to see sea lions and turtles. Then its off to explore the shores of Rábida Island, known for its red hue. After a wet landing, walk to a salt water lagoon to spot flamingos. End the day with a short hike for stunning island views. (B, L, D)

Day 6 - Galapagos Islands

Your first stop today is Santa Cruz Island, where you’ll visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and the Galápagos National Park offices, the hub of conservation efforts. Learn about the ecology of the islands and meet giant tortoises George and Diego at the breeding center. This afternoon, take a boat trip to Cerro Chato, where you’ll observe giant tortoises in their natural habitat. (B, L, D)

Day 7 - Quito

Leave for Bachas Beach on Santa Cruz, for a morning swim off its white sand beaches. Later, board a flight back to Quito and check into your hotel. (B)

Day 8 - Quito

Enjoy a free day in Quito, or join our full-day optional excursion to the traditional craft markets of Otavalo, which date back to pre-Incan times. You’ll also stop at some of the native villages along the way. This full-day excursion also includes lunch at a traditional Hosteria. (B)

$95 USD

Otavalo Journey to the native Indian community of Otavalo for a visit to the crafts market. Shop for sweaters, leather goods, belts, jackets, blankets and rugs, handmade in a tradition that goes back centuries.

Day 9 - Quito

With another free day in Quito, visit the city’s many museums, shops and cafés. Or join an optional excursion to Mindo Reserve. Situated northwest of Quito, Mindo Reserve encompasses15,000 acres of protected land, 2,000 species of plants and 325 bird species—three reasons why it was named one of the top five biodiversity spots in the world. This full-day excursion includes lunch in a butterfly garden. Tonight, opt for a Quito Evening Tour and Dinner. If you are traveling on the extension to Peru, transfer to the airport later this afternoon to board your flight to Lima. (B)

$95 USD

Mindo Reserve *A Go Ahead Favorite excursion!* An excursion to Ecuador's Mindo Reserve, a rainforest of 15,000 acres, introduces you to one of Conservation International's Top Five Biodiversity Zones in the world.

$59 USD

Quito Evening Tour and Dinner Enjoy an evening in the first city to be named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as you explore Quito's vibrant restaurants and nightlife.

Day 10 - Quito

Transfer to the airport to board your return flight home. (B)

Protect your investment with affordable travel protection

Basic Trip Cancellation/Interruption Coverage
Protect yourself in the event you need to cancel your trip or leave your tour unexpectedly due to an emergency. Or choose one of the comprehensive packages below, and receive a discounted rate!

TravelSafe Plus — For one low price, you’ll receive:

• Trip cancellation & interruption protection
• Medical & accident protection
• Baggage & property protection

TravelSafe Gold with Flight Cancellation Protection
Take advantage of the best possible deal for your investment dollar. For $60 USD more, you’ll get all of the above plus additional coverage (up to $1,000 USD) if the flight to your tour is cancelled due to reasons beyond your control.

Purchase your travel protection package early and receive an added benefit!
Purchase one of the above TravelSafe packages within 14 days of reserving your tour, and you’ll automatically receive AnyTime Travel Protection at no additional charge. This means you can cancel for any reason up to 72 hours prior to the departure of your initial flight and still protect your investment. You will be provided with a credit voucher towards your next Go Ahead tour.

What’s unique about these protection plans?

• Most primary travel protection companies don’t cover international travel.
• Under the AnyTime Travel Protection Plan, you can cancel for any reason and your investment is protected in the form of a credit voucher.
• Efekta travel protection covers lost or stolen cash while on tour.
• Efekta travel protection covers the cost towards replacement of valuable documents—such as passports, airline tickets and visas while on tour.
• In the event that your roommate cancels for a reason covered under the policy, you will be reimbursed for the single supplement fee, should you still choose to travel.
• The following policies are also available to be purchased separately:
  • Medical & Accident: $70 USD
  • Baggage & Property: $60 USD

Extended Protection Plan
The Extended Protection Plan allows you to purchase extended coverage for any travel you do before or after meeting up with your Go Ahead Tours tour group (with flights arranged by Go Ahead Tours).

For more detailed descriptions of the benefits available under Efekta Insurance International LTD's Travel Protection Plans please call 1-800-597-0350 or download a PDF copy of the Efekta Travel Protection booklet here.

Passport & Visa

In order to enter Ecuador and Peru (on extension), U.S. citizens need a valid passport. The expiration date must extend at least six months beyond the date of your return to the United States.

No visa is required for U.S. citizens. If you are not a U.S. citizen, you must contact each country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.

Health

Travelers to Ecuador should be comfortable in high-altitude conditions. Elevation throughout the country varies widely. The altitude of Quito is close to 10,000 feet (Cuzco on extension is 11,000 feet). Travelers (especially those with heart or lung conditions) should consult with their personal health-care providers before undertaking high-altitude travel. The best way to prevent “altitude sickness,” which sometimes results in headaches and nausea, is to make sure that you are well hydrated throughout your stay.

In order for you to stay healthy throughout your tour, we recommend the following:

• Drink bottled water. Refrain from drinking tap water, including when brushing teeth.
• Avoid eating fresh fruits and vegetables unless they are cooked or washed in clean water and peeled.
• Bring a small first-aid kit, including antacids, anti-diarrhea medication and any prescription medications.

Transportation / Walking on tour

Round-trip flights arrive in and depart from Quito.

The tour also includes a flight to and from the Galápagos Islands and the four-night island cruise aboard either the MV Galapagos Legend or the MV Galapagos Coral.

Most destinations on tour are walkable, including Quito, although local buses and taxis are available as well.

FAQ's about the Galapagos Cruise Ship(s):

Q: How can I pay my expenses on board?
A: You can either set up an account with your credit card when you arrive on the boat or you can use cash to pay for any on board purchases. All tips must be paid in cash.

Q: Are there phones and Internet access on the ship?
A: No. There is no phones or Internet access on board the ship. You will be able to make calls and/or use the internet on day 4 of the cruise during your visit to Santa Cruz. There are many Internet cafes and phones on this Island.

Q: What is the dress code for dinner on board the ship?
A: The cruise ship is very casual. They only request that you don't wear a swimsuit or a hat to dinner. Otherwise, anything goes!  

Q: Are drinks included on the ship?
A: Water, juice (with breakfast), coffee or tea are provided. Soft drinks and alchoholic beverages will be billed to you room.

Q: Is fresh water provided on the ship?
A: Yes. You will be given one refillable water bottle per person when you arrive. There are purified water stations located at several locations on the boat where you can refill your bottle during the duration of your cruise.

Q: Is there a doctor on board the ship?
A: Yes, there is a doctor available 24 hours on the ship.

Q: Is smoking permitted on the ship?
A: Smoking is only permitted on the open sun decks.

Q: What kind of experience do the Galapagos Naturalist Guides have? Are they certified?
A: The guides are the highest level naturalists in Galapagos - some with 25+ years of experience. They must be certified in order to guide a group on the Galapagos.

Q: Are taxes, Galapagos National Park tax and Galapagos immigration cards included in the cost?
A: Yes. Your tour director will provide you with the appropriate documentation when you arrive in the Galapagos.

Clothing & Packing Tips

Light, loose-fitting clothing suitable for exploring the sights is essential for your tour. A sun hat, sunglasses and a sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers are recommended for sightseeing. Sandals (or waterproof shoes), a bathing suit and insect repellent are recommended for your visit to the Galápagos.

It’s always a good idea to be prepared for any eventuality—a sports jacket and emergency rainwear are advised. If you plan to visit an elegant restaurant, you will probably feel more comfortable with something more formal to wear. Also, remember that it is preferable not to visit churches or other religious sites with bare legs and shoulders (and entrance may be denied on this basis).

Packing list:
Tevas - Perfect for the wet landings in the Galapagos islands, tevas or other water shoes have good tread even when wet and will eliminates the need to change into shoes and socks, which can take time away from seeing the islands!

Small day pack - Perfect for the excursions to the Galapagos islands, a small day pack can hold your camera, water bottle, suncreen and bug spray.

Sunscreen and bug spray - The sun is very strong on the equator so be sure to reapply often, and the bug spray will help ward off the pesky mosquitoes in Mindo, Bartolome and Isabela Island.

Swimsuit, shorts and t-shirts - The weather on the Galapagos is generally hot and dry, around 85 degrees year round.  Many swimming and snorkeling and opportunities so don't forget your swimsuit. Snorkeling gear and wetsuits are available for rent on the ship.

Brim Hat with a strap or tie - The sun is very strong on the Equator. You will appreciate having a hat by the second day of the cruise. If you forget, they can be purchased on the ship for $12 in the gift shop. The strap is to stop it from flying off your head while you're on the dingies and the wind is blowing!

Long-sleeve, lightweight cotton t-shirt - You may want to cover your arms if you're getting too much sun. It can actually cool you off!

Lightweight jacket and/or sweater - Quito is in the mountains and can cool down quite a bit at night. With all the sun you'll get in the Galapagos, the cool air might feel extreme when you get back to Quito and you'll appreciate having packed the warmer clothes.

Be sure to visit www.travelsmith.com, official outfitters for Go Ahead Tours. Please enter JY9220 in the field for Catalog Key Code when creating your account!

Currency

Ecuador's official currency is the US dollar, and the notes are identical to those issued in the US. Frequently used denominations include one, five, 10 and 20 dollar bills. Rarely used denominations include two, 50 and 100 dollar bills.

Coins of one, five, 10, 25 and 50 cents are identical in shape, size and color to their US equivalents, but bear images of famous Ecuadorians rather than US presidents. Both US and Ecuadorian coins are accepted. 

Every significant town has an ATM, making ATM cards the best way to handle your cash. Major credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas and big hotels, though merchants will often add a surcharge of 6% to 8%. Credit cards are also increasingly accepted at Ecuadorian ATMs and for cash advances at banks, though not all branches provide this service. Cheaper hotels, restaurants and stores typically don't accept credit cards.

We advise that you take credit cards and traveler’s checks, which can be exchanged for cash at local banks, as needed. We suggest that you inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans, so that they won’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.

Tipping

At the end of your tour, it is customary to offer your Go Ahead Tour Director and bus driver a gratuity. We suggest $2 per person, per day for your bus driver and $6 to $8 per person, per day for your tour director.

The ship also recommends $12 per person, per day for the boat staff and $8 per person, per day for your Galapagos Naturalist Guide.

Tips may only be paid in cash.