In Darwin's Footsteps

Galapagos by Sea and Land

If someone deserves credit for changing the modern views of what happens around us, it must be given to Charles Darwin. With his theory of evolution by means of natural selection, Darwin was able to explain the dilemma about where species come from, and how they interact with their surrounding environment. Many of these conclusions were inspired by the most remarkable trip any Naturalist can take; a voyage to the Galápagos Islands.

Charles Darwin explored Galápagos while on board the H.M.S. Beagle, between September and October 1835. We want to explore with you the islands that gave him the same inspiration, and what a better opportunity to do so on board our expedition vessel M/V Santa Cruz and Finch Bay Ecohotel, next to a group of fellow explorers, a team of seasoned Naturalists, and the most remarkable wildlife experience of this planet. Come with us and rediscover Galápagos…In Darwin’s Footsteps.

2009 Departures: Friday to Wednesday-weekly departures based on availability

2009 Costs:

• $2089 (includes main or upper deck cabin on the Santa Cruz—upgrades possible with surcharge)
• $535 Galapagos airfare, Park Tax & Transit Control Card (subject to change)
• $72 Fuel Surcharge

Note:  This is a fully escorted tour with specific departure dates. Trip extensions can be arranged on request.

Itinerary

Our Voyage:  In our 6 day/5 night Galapagos expedition plan (a.k.a. the itinerary), exploring the islands’ grandeur will be topped by spending time on the beautiful island of Santa Cruz. Our voyage includes:

Day 1: Friday-Quito to San Cristobal/Galapagos Islands.

You’ll be picked up at your hotel and transferred to the Quito airport, where you’ll be assisted with check-in for your flights to the Galapagos Islands. Note: there is a strictly enforced luggage limit on Galapagos flights of one piece of checked luggage not to exceed 44 pounds. Arrival to San Cristobal in the late morning. Your Galapagos Park tax ($100) and Transit Control Card ($10) have been pre-paid. You will need to clear agricultural inspection and the proceed outside where you’ll meet the guides and crew of the M/V Santa Cruz, who will assist you with transfer by bus (5 minutes) to the dock to board the MV SANTA CRUZ.  Your luggage will follow in a separate boat. You may wish to pack shorts, sunscreen & sandals in your back-pack pack if you wish to change into cooler clothing before the luggage arrives. Cabin assignment and introductory welcome talk will be given once everyone is on board. Later, lunch, and ship’s boat drill. 

The 46 cabin M/V Santa Cruz, built exclusively for Galapagos Islands cruising  was completely renovated in 1998, having been redesigned and refurbished inside and out. The SANTA CRUZ has gained worldwide recognition for its excellent standards, including superb service, expert crew, the most knowledgeable multilingual naturalist/guides and menus that feature the very best international cuisine and celebrated Ecuadorian dishes. Its capacity is for ninety guests.

Our Expedition Team consists of a Chief Naturalist and five Naturalists. All will delight guests with diverse natural history explanations, superb on-deck talks, and eye-catching lectures regarding natural history issues. Their multimedia presentations and recaps will complement the day's activities. Together with the Captain, they will plan the day's program. They are masters of Galapagos' knowledge. Soon enough, our Naturalists will become the highlight of your voyage. At night, when pitch-dark starry skies are seen, stargazing is an amazing nocturnal activity. The southern skies are beautifully arranged with exuberant constellations. For more information, please visit the M/V Santa Cruz website.

Island: San Cristóbal (Chatham)--89º30’W-0º50’S

Landing site: Cerro Brujo. Wet landing.

The northern coast of San Cristóbal holds a large harbour called Stephen’s Bay. Our site welcomes us with a white coralline beach, while inland a black lava flow dominates this volcanic coastline. The dramatic landscape includes a selection of tuff cones, spatter cones, and vast lava flows. Swimming and snorkeling available from the beach.

Wildlife highlights: Sea lions, Chatham mockingbird, Darwin’s finches, blue-footed boobies, Chatham lava lizards, lagoon birds, brown pelicans.

Charles Darwin’s relevance: Being his first island, the volcanic setting of this place got his attention, and chances are you will notice these unique features too; just like Darwin did. In Voyage of the Beagle, and while referring to this island, he writes: “One night I slept on shore on a part of the island, where black truncated cones were extraordinarily numerous: from one small eminence I counted sixty of them, all surmounted by craters more or less perfect.”Charles Darwin, September 17 th, 1835.

Day 2: Saturday

Island AM: Española (Hood)--89º15’W-1º20’S

Landing site: Punta Suárez. Dry landing.

Española Island is one of the oldest islands in the archipelago. Perhaps one of the most rewarding wildlife contacts in Galápagos will happen here.

Wildlife highlights: Black and red marine iguanas, sea lions, swallow-tail gulls, Hood mockingbird, Nazca boobies, Darwin’s finches, blue-footed boobies, waved albatrosses (April to December), Hood lava lizards, yellow warblers.

Charles Darwin’s relevance: Actually, this island was the first approach for the HMS Beagle. Although, no landing was scheduled, Captain Robert Fitzroy managed to send a boat to extensively survey the coastline. Charles Darwin writes about his arrival to the islands, and first impressions: “This archipelago consists of ten principal islands, of which five exceed the others in size. They are situated under the Equator, and between five and six hundred miles westward of the coast of America.” Charles Darwin, September 15 th, 1835.

Island PM: Floreana (Charles)--90º30’W-1º15’S

Landing site: Punta Cormorant. Wet landing.

Back in the 1700’s, Floreana Island was the place pirates chose for getting most fresh water. Later, in 1832, the first Ecuadorian settlers placed Ecuador’s flag and claimed the islands as a new territory. Swimming, snorkeling and glass-bottom boat can be arranged.

Wildlife highlights: Greater flamingos, pintail ducks, common stilts, frigatebirds, sea turtles, Galápagos flycatchers, tropical and subtropical fish, sea lions.

Charles Darwin’s relevance: On this island Charles Darwin met with the Governor of the Galápagos. This meeting was crucial as Darwin was introduced to why giant tortoises are different from island to island. This simple, but solid, fact is mentioned in Origin of the Species. Charles Darwin writes about Floreana Island: “ Higher up, the woods gradually became greener; and as soon as we crossed the ridge of the island, we were cooled by a fine southerly breeze, and our sight refreshed by a green and thriving vegetation.” Charles Darwin, September 17 th, 1835.

Day 3: Sunday

Island AM: Fernandina (Narborough)--91º30’W-0º15’S

Landing site: Punta Espinoza. Dry landing.

Fernandina Island is the western-most island of Galápagos. It is an island of frequent volcanic activity and we can witness this by walking on lava flows younger than 300 years of age. Its main volcano shows the classical dome shape of young volcanic islands. Snorkeling can be arranged, but it will depend on sea conditions.

Wildlife highlights: Blue-footed boobies, flightless cormorants, densest colony of marine iguanas, Galápagos hawks, intertidal pools, Galápagos penguins, brown pelicans, sally-lightfoot crabs.

Charles Darwin’s relevance: He was quite amazed to see how different the younger volcanos can be. Also, he mentioned about the cooler waters around the islands. Charles Darwin’s entry: “ We doubled the south-west extremity of Albemarle Island, and the next day was nearly becalmed between it and Narborough Island. Both are covered with immense deluges of black naked lava, which have flowed either over the rims of the great caldrons, like pitch over the rim of a pot in which it has been boiled, or have burst forth from smaller orifices on the flanks; in their descent they have spread over miles of the sea-coast.” Charles Darwin, September 29 th, 1835.

Island PM: Isabela (Albemarle)--91º15’W-0º20’S

Landing site:  Punta Vicente Roca. Coastal Exploration.

Isabela is the largest of the Galápagos Islands.  It is formed by the fusion of six large-shield volcanos.  Punta Vicente Roca is a part of an adjacent parasitic cone to giant Ecuador Volcano, the most northern shield volcano of Isabela Island and crossed by the equatorial line.  Its cliffs hold the most dramatic volcanic landscape and unique wildlife can be seen all along its coastline.  Right at this are we are looking at some of the youngest geological features of the archipelago, and we are at the northern tip of the Galápagos' largest island, Isabela. This area is part of Ecuador Volcano, where a collapsed caldera floor is revealed after a major sinking of half of the whole volcano structure. The anchoring place lies in front of tuff-stone layers of a parasitic cone, next to the slopes of the host volcano. Lava intrusions, called sills and dikes, reveal the relatively recent volcanic activity of this area. Since there is no landing site at this location, our outing will include coastal exploration where our Naturalists will commit to explaining the dramatic geology of the area. Wildlife here will definitely surprise everyone; few hours before we crossed the Equator and yet this tropical area can have surprises like dolphins, whales, sea lions, sea birds, turles, and more. Where is all this life coming from? The answer is the Cromwell Current; a deep submarine current that upwells right at the volcanic platform of the western islands. These cool nutrient-rich waters attract plenty of sea-depending species which include brown pelicans, blue-footed boobies, noddy terns, shearwaters, and the only tropical penguin on Earth, the Galápagos penguin. Depending on sea conditions (current and visibility), we will schedule a snorkeling outing too. 

Wildlife highlights: Marine iguanas, Galápagos penguins, flightless cormorants, noddy terns, gulls, brown pelicans, sea turtles, and plenty of marine species. 

Charles Darwin’s relevance: Charles Darwin visited Isabela just few miles south of this site, but certainly sailed the shores of where we are today.  His amazement grew with every site visited.  He writes about Isabela Island: “On both of these islands, eruptions are known to have taken place; and in Albemarle, we saw a small jet of smoke curling from the summit of one of the great craters. In the evening we anchored in Bank's Cove, in Albemarle Island.” Charles Darwin, September 29 th, 1835.

Day 4: Monday

Island: Santa Cruz (Indefatigable)--90º20’W-0º40’S

Landing site: Itabaca Channel. Dry landing.

This morning we transfer early to the island of Santa Cruz, as we say goodbye to our expedition vessel. Our Naturalist will introduce us to great features on Santa Cruz Island, including a bus ride up through the lush and vibrant green highlands. This area is perhaps the least seen by visitors to the Galápagos. Seeing the changes in vegetation will be new to us, and the wildlife found here will have no comparison to any other area explored. We will travel by bus from the north shores of the island, towards the south end. In route we will explore pit craters, lava tunnels, the Scalesia forest, and the giant tortoises’ wild habitat. Check-in at Finch Bay and lunch. Then, off to the famous Charles Darwin Research Station, and some time afterwards to stroll in the town of Puerto Ayora.

The charming Finch Bay - named after the famous Darwin's Finches abundant in the surroundings - is just steps from the beach on a private seaside location, surrounded by mangroves. Here guests can cherish the privacy, natural surroundings and superb service offered by the Finch Bay. Swimming pool, Jacuzzi, outdoor bar, and water-sports center are all part of the experience.

Located on Santa Cruz Island at Punta Estrada, across the bay from the town of Puerto Ayora, it is situated in a quiet location, with only pedestrian and bicycle circulation - there are no cars in the neighborhood.

Finch Bay accommodates 42 guests with 21 rooms (with twin or king-size beds), each with private facilities, air conditioning and unlimited water supply, as the hotel has its own desalinization plant. This ecologically oriented hotel also boasts innovative garbage processing and recycling programs. The entire infrastructure as well as the activities are totally oriented to a concept of true ecotourism in a pristine natural environment.

Delicious healthy international and Galapagos inspired menus are prepared daily by our chef, using the freshest ingredients. For more information, please visit the Finch Bay Eco Hotel website.

Wildlife highlights: Vermillion flycatchers, giant tortoises, Darwin’s finches (look for tree finches and woodpecker finches), egrets, Galápagos doves, lava lizards, Galápagos mockingbirds.

Charles Darwin’s relevance: Santa Cruz Island is the only location in Galápagos, where up to nine species of Darwin’s finches can be observed (there are thirteen in total). Although he was not on Santa Cruz Island, his description of his visit to the highlands of another island in the archipelago is quite interesting. He writes: “In the first part of the road we passed through leafless thickets. Higher up, the woods gradually became greener; and as soon as we crossed the ridge of the island, we were cooled by a fine southerly breeze, and our sight refreshed by green and thriving vegetation.”Charles Darwin, September 23 rd, 1835.

Day 4: Tuesday

Island: Santa Cruz (Indefatigable)--90º20’W-0º40’S

Landing site: Academy Bay. Dry landing.

Finch Bay Ecohotel setting is right at the shoreline. Mangroves host an array of wildlife, and low tide is the best time to experience this. Right from the start, Darwin’s finches dominate the landscape, but it is quite a thrill to see a cacti forest in the tropics, and right next to the ocean. Your outings today include a list of activities that allow you to have a “Galápagos a la carte” adventure. May we suggest ocean kayaking along the azure waters of Devine’s Bay, or hiking to Las Grietas, a crack in the volcanic shores where sea water has seeped in, or a walk to Tortuga Bay, a coralline beach of about six miles in length, or mountain biking up in the highlands, or a refreshing swim right off our beach, or snorkeling to nearby shallows? Do it all, or do none. It is your holiday. Tonight, enjoy the view of the bay by dining at Angermeyer’s Point, our partner and the finest Galápagos restaurant.

Wildlife highlights: Of course it will depend on what you do, but expect Darwin’s finches, cattle egrets, lava lizards, Galápagos mockingbirds, sea turtles, lava herons, lava gulls, and all the rest you can see.

Charles Darwin’s relevance: As our voyage ends, nothing can be more relevant than Charles Darwin’s overall impressions about Galápagos: “Considering the small size of the islands, we feel the more astonished at the number of their aboriginal beings, and at their confined range. Seeing every height crowned with its crater, and the boundaries of most of the lava- streams still distinct, we are led to believe that within a period geologically recent the unbroken ocean was here spread out. Hence, both in space and time, we seem to be brought somewhat near to that great fact -- that mystery of mysteries -- the first appearance of new beings on this earth.”Charles Darwin, October 8 th, 1835.

Day 5: Wednesday

Island: Baltra (South Seymour)--90º20’W-0º30’S

Landing site: Baltra. Dry landing.

It is time to take our flight back to the Ecuadorian mainland. We will transfer from Santa Cruz Island to Baltra Island, and as we go from the lowlands to the highlands, and back to the lowlands we will have our last contact with the Galápagos environment. All airport procedures will be assisted by Finch Bay Ecohotel’s staff. Make sure you have your passport ready for I.D. verification before entering the departure lounge. Our flight will take us first to Guayaquil and then to Quito. Don’t forget we will go back to mainland’s time, so please add an hour to your watch during the flight. Bon Voyage!

Wildlife highlights: who knows, but, maybe a farewell committee of Darwin’s finches at breakfast, or a cluster of marine iguanas by the hotel’s dock. Let’s keep our eyes open.

Charles Darwin’s relevance: More than 25 years passed between Darwin’s time in Galápagos and when he wrote his masterpiece. Interestingly enough, he never used the word “evolution”. It seems Darwin’s most elaborate writing is the way he ends Origin of Species, and with a humble attitude he writes: “ There is grandeur in this view of life, with its several powers, having been originally breathed by the Creator into a few forms or into one; and that, whilst this planet has gone circling on according to the fixed law of gravity, from so simple a beginning endless forms most beautiful and most wonderful have been, and are being evolved.”Charles Darwin, November 24 th, 1859.

B=Breakfast; L=Lunch; D=Dinner

INCLUDED: Accommodations in tourist, or first class and tourist superior hotels, meals as described, adventure and protective equipment, professional English speaking guide, land and sea transportation.

NOT INCLUDED: Airfare to/from Galapagos (Low season $340, High season $400, subject to change) Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee ($100 per person), hotel & restaurant diners, beverages, tips or gratuities, or personal expenses.

IMPORTANT: This itinerary is subject to change without notice due to seasonal changes, last minute weather conditions and adjustment of Galapagos National Park policy.

Trip notes:

• This trip begins and ends in Quito or Guayaquil, Ecuador, which can be reached via daily flights on a wide variety of airlines. Latin American Escapes offers excellent discounted airfares, please contact us for a quote from your home city.
• Additional days may be added in Quito at either the beginning or end of this itinerary if you wish to explore the city in more depth, or visit other interesting areas of Ecuador---the Amazon rainforest, colonial cities, Indian markets, volcanoes, hot springs, etc.

To confirm reservations:

A deposit of $300 per person is required to confirm reservations. In addition, the following payment procedures apply:

Payment for airline tickets is due at the time tickets are issued, but no later than time of final payment.

Last Minute Bookings: Last minute reservations (less than 30 days before departure) will be accepted, subject to availability, if payment has been received, and documents can be delivered. Any special communication costs and delivery charges will be at the client's expense.

Revision Fee: Revision fees will apply once the initial deposit has been received. Charges will vary based on itinerary, and extent of changes, with a minimum charge of $50. Changes requested after documents have been issued (generally with-in 30 days) will incur a minimum $100 change fee, plus additional services requested.

International bookings: We gladly accept bookings from passengers outside the US. However, an additional surcharge of $50 per booking is applied to cover additional shipping charges.

CANCELLATIONS & REFUNDS--At the time we receive written notification that you must cancel your trip, money will be returned less the following cancellation fees:

Trip Documents: Trip documents will be forwarded approximately 3 weeks prior to travel, and once all payments and completed application forms have been received.

Risk and Responsibility

In arranging these trips, Latin American Escapes, Inc. acts only as the agents for the owners, contractors and suppliers actually providing tour services for these trips with whom Latin American Escapes, Inc. has no legal connection or joint ownership. These local tour operators attempt to conduct these trips as described in the preceding itineraries. However, it is possible that due to transportation schedule changes, weather, delays and unforeseeable acts of God, humans or nature, itineraries may vary from what is described. Participants are responsible for extra costs due to travel delay or itinerary changes for reasons beyond our control and assume all risks, whether identified in advance or unforeseen, as described under Limitation of Liability, and Trip Member Responsibility, located in our Terms and Conditions, which all travelers agree to sign. Traveler's insurance is not included, but is offered, and is strongly recommended. CST # 2023695-40.