Guayaquil is Ecuador’s principal harbor and largest city, with about 3 million inhabitants. Guayaquil’s strong culture and traditions stand in amazing contrast to the modernity of its new constructions. Guayaquil’s harbor, “Puerto Maritimo”, is the main seaport of the country and is where 80% of the country’s imports and more than 50% of its exports are handled.
Ecuador’s Galápagos Islands are one of the world’s most remarkable destinations: an open-air wildlife museum that stirs the explorer within everyone. The archipelago, located about 600 miles west of mainland Ecuador, is home to an astonishing variety of endemic species — enough to inspire a theory that would change the world — and proves an irresistible destination for adventurers and nature-lovers to this day.
Special Note: Any guests travelling with Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines should read further below for airline stipulations with regards to bringing this equipment on tour. This is not a wheelchair accessible program and is not recommended for guests who require the use of a wheelchair or mobility scooters. Guests with mobility concerns are advised to carefully assess their personal physical capabilities and stamina. Participants must be able to independently board and disembark from transportation, including motor coaches, and should be accompanied by an able-bodied companion if assistance is needed. We encourage guests to contact the cruise line in advance to discuss any specific mobility-related questions or concerns before booking this program.
DAY 1
This morning, you will be picked up from the port of Manta and begin your journey to Guayaquil, a scenic drive that takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours.
You’ll arrive in Guayaquil in time to enjoy a traditional lunch at a charming local restaurant.
Next, enjoy a city tour of Guayaquil. You are welcome to immerse yourself in the locals’ culture, atmosphere, and daily life in Guayaquil. First enjoy a breathtaking adventure as you embark on a tour of Guayaquil's iconic Aerovía, offering panoramic views of the city's stunning landscape and vibrant urban life.
Aerovia is a public transportation system, an environmentally friendly project that seeks to reduce the emission of carbon dioxide into the air that provides an alternative mode of transportation for residents and tourists alike.
This mass air-suspended public transport system consists of 154 cabins, a cable car whose infrastructure gives a lot of visibility which allows us to enjoy the Guayaquil landscape, such as the hills of Guayaquil, the Ferris wheel of the Malecon 2000, the giant artistic paintings painted by local artists, and the Guayas River watching the boats that cross it.
After the aerial gondolas ride, you will disembark and take a short walk through the Panama street, a historical street in the downtown to reach the Cacao Museum. Stride into the museum and delve into the origins of cacao, a sacred plant revered by ancient civilizations such as the Maya and Aztecs. Learn about the cultural significance of cacao in indigenous communities and its transformation from a revered beverage to the indulgent chocolate we know today. Immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of cacao through exhibits that highlight its role in Ecuadorian traditions, festivals, and cuisine. Gain insight into the socioeconomic impact of cacao cultivation on local communities and its significance as a source of livelihood for generations of farmers.
Afterwards, embark on the coach and continue discovering Guayaquil, pass by Malecon 2000 -the iconic waterfront promenade, La Rotonda -a historical monument commemorating the meeting of South American liberators Simon Bolivar and Jose de San Martin, Las Peñas -one of Guayaquil's oldest and most picturesque neighborhoods and Seminario Park -a lush green oasis in the heart of downtown Guayaquil with its most famous residents – the iguanas – as they bask in the sun and roam freely among the trees and pathways.
Finally, drive to the hotel to check in.
Dinner will be served at the hotel.
Overnight at HILTON COLON Guayaquil Hotel or similar
DAY 2
After breakfast, meet your guide to transfer to Guayaquil airport to board a domestic flight to Galapagos Islands.
Upon arrival at Baltra Airport, a Galapagos Naturalist Guide will welcome us and help with luggage and guidance towards the public bus that heads towards the Itabaca Channel which separates Baltra Island from Santa Cruz Island. A public ferry crosses the azure waters of the channel towards Santa Cruz, which will take approximately 5 minutes. On Santa Cruz, board a private vehicle to transfer to Puerto Ayora on the other side of the island. Driving through the rural areas of the island, travelers can experience the agriculture of the archipelago as well as the diversity of its flora. Surrounded by wild landscapes and different species, keep a lookout for the finches that are famous for being the basis of Darwin´s theory of evolution.
Lunch will be served at a local venue in the highlands.
During our first visit, to the Santa Cruz Highlands, watch the famous Galapagos land tortoises in their natural environment and learn how the private ranches aid to protect these special animals. One can hear their sounds while they are trying to eat the leaves of the trees or crash through the undergrowth. Tortoises of all different ages and sizes gather here: Small young ones with shining carapaces, and older ones which are a little bit more laggard and cracks in their shells showing evidence of a long life. While seeking the giant tortoises, the local guide will share the story of the origin of the lava tunnels located at this area. Formed by the lava floods of the volcanoes, they range from the highlands down to the sea level.
Continue to the hotel for check-in. Dinner is served at the hotel after an exciting and memorable day.
Overnight at IKALA Galapagos Hotel or similar
DAY 3
GALAPAGOS
Today we take a full day boat tour to one of the following nearby Islands: (Island Subject to confirmation)
BARTOLOME: Prepare for an early start - 6 AM. The bus departs from the hotel to take us to the Itabaca Channel, where the yacht awaits, ready to depart. Experience a day in paradise with beautiful white beaches, outer space ambient, clear water, and observe as many native animals start their day.
On the two-hour boat trip breakfast is served while watching the sunrise at sea. There may be an opportunity to observe dolphins and other marine residents very close to the boat in the early hours.
Landing in Bartolome, approximately 300 steps lead up through the moon-like landscape to the highest point of the island. The reward is an amazing view over the islands Santiago, North Seymour, Baltra, Santa Cruz and Rabida. Also in view is Chinese Hat Island, as well as the well-known Pinnacle Rock, which is all that remains of an ancient volcano. The rock is home to a large quantity of sea birds and is the most photographed landscape in the Galapagos Islands.
After changing clothes for the beach visit, board the dinghy ride for a short ride to Sullivan Bay for snorkeling. Those who don't wish to snorkel may stay on the dinghy to go search among the rocks for the diminutive Galapagos Penguin. Look for one standing on the cliff or shooting like a bullet through the clear waters. Back at the beach after snorkeling or the dinghy ride, enjoy some time to relax or swim. The shallow sea invites us to go swimming and snorkeling while we search for Galapagos penguins, sharks, starfish, rays, sea turtles and other exotic and colorful fish. Enjoy the diversity of native residents such as marine iguanas, sea lions, pelicans, and more.
After this amazing adventure, lunch is served on the boat.
SEYMOUR AND BACHAS: Starting at 8 AM, this tour offers the golden chance to get to know Seymour Island and Bachas beach. First transfer to the yacht at the Itabaca Channel. During the 1-hour navigation to Seymour Island, observe the slow awakening of the archipelago as the day begins.
Disembark via dinghy onto the rocky coast near a small forest consisting of gray and silver Palo Santo (Holy Stick) trees, which are without leaves for most of the year. Seymour is famous for its large colonies of birds. The unique male frigate birds with their inflated red pouches attract females during breeding season, and the famous Galapagos blue-footed boobies can be observed as well. These seabirds have a wedge-shaped tail, long pointed wings and for courtship, the males lift first one, then the other blue foot into the air and dance to impress the female. Other highlights of this excursion are a beach with small cliffs, seagulls, many sea lions, marine iguanas and pelicans, mostly an arm's length away.
The freshly cooked lunch consists of two courses and is served on the yacht. During siesta time, the yacht navigates to Bachas beach along the northern coast of Santa Cruz Island. Take a short hike to the flamingo pond just behind the beach and afterwards refresh yourself by swimming and snorkeling at this isolated paradise beach with white sand and turquoise waters. Sea lions, rays, sea turtles, and tropical fish may join in our underwater experience!
PLAZAS AND PUNTA CARRION: Depart at 8 AM from the hotel for the Itabaca channel, where we board the yacht to cruise South Plaza Island. The island welcomes travelers with a bright colorful red and green carpet of sesuvio, an endemic plant, spread over the Island, as well as the loud, friendly barking of several sea lion families which have settled down on the shore of the channel between North and South Plaza Islands where the yacht anchors. The turquoise water of the ocean juxtaposes perfectly with the white shining beaches and the black lava rocks of the coast.
The hike is easy and goes alongside relaxing sea lions and land iguanas which can be found on most parts of the island. The trail leads to the highest cliff where swallow-tailed gulls cross the air screaming. Here lie the sea lions which could not persist against their competitors climbing up the almost vertical wall. At the same time, tropical birds, blue-footed boobies, and other marine frigate birds glide gently in the wind. We suggest bringing along binoculars to get an extraordinarily close view of these animals, as well as the other marine life. The view from the highest point over the ocean and the powerful waves breaking at the cliffs is an experience that visitors will not forget.
Afterwards, the trip continues to Punta Carrion, where lunch is served on board the ship. This is a great spot to snorkel and swim among rays, sharks, and hundreds of colorful tropic fish.
SANTA FE: Formed by uplifting, rather than by a volcano, Santa Fe is known for having one of the most beautiful coves in all the Galapagos. Some of the island’s endemic species include the Galapagos hawk, Galapagos snake, land iguanas, various types of finches, and the Galapagos mockingbird. The visit includes a hike on a trail past salt bushes where Galapagos hawks as well as the Santa Fe land iguanas tend to roam. Playful sea lions will usually accompany swimmers and snorkelers during beach time.
FLOREANA: This morning, navigate to the small town of Puerto Velasco Ibarra located on the Floreana Island (approximately 2.5 hours from Santa Cruz). Upon arrival, take local transportation known as “Chiva” to start a 30-minute ride up to the highlands of Floreana Island. The chiva will ascend a dirt road surrounded by typical dry vegetation transform into a lush, green vegetation as we gain elevation. In this area, we also find some farms with bananas, coffee, cacao, and other tropical plantations. Our short drive will end at the “pampada” from where we start a beautiful walk which permits us to observe the typical flora of the area. On our way, we will also encounter some giant Galapagos tortoises. Continue to the place known as “Asilo de la Paz” (Peace Asylum), a historical place where the German Wittmer family settled down when they arrived to Floreana in 1932. Observe the caves used as their home before moving to the place which is now known as Puerto Velasco Ibarra. Back in town, enjoy lunch prepared in a small, local restaurant.
Next, we walk to “La Loberia”, a beautiful bay. The main attraction is the presence of a small colony of sea lions. There is also a great chance to observe marine iguanas resting on the rocks, and in the waters of the bay we may be able to see marine turtles.
ISABELA: This morning, sail to the town of Puerto Villamil on Isabela Island (approximately 3 hours from Santa Cruz). Upon arrival, visit the Isabela Tortoise Breading and Interpretation Center where our guide will explain the different activities developed by the National Park to protect the fragile environment. Here, we also find Giant Galapagos Tortoises of different species and sizes.
Afterwards, we start our walk to the place known as “Humedales” (Wetlands). The walk follows a well-maintained path from which we can observe this beautiful place composed of lagoons and rocks and surrounded by 4 species of mangroves and typical trees of the area. In the lagoons we can observe flamingos and migratory birds.
After lunch at a local restaurant, we visit "Las Tintoreras”, a scenic area where we find colonies of marine iguanas, sea lions, and many sharks known as Tintoreras (White-tipped sharks) resting in the channels formed by lava flows. Later, we can do some snorkeling, perhaps in the company of sea lions, penguins and marine turtles.
Difficulty level: Moderate
The day trip ends with a late afternoon return and dinner at the hotel.
Overnight at IKALA Galapagos Hotel or similar
DAY 4
After breakfast, we are going to visit Charles Darwin Research Station and its famous residents within an impressive giant prickly-pear cactus forest. These are the headquarters of scientific research, conservation, and the National Park administration in the islands. Gain insight into the huge efforts being made by scientists, guides, rangers, and park managers to preserve this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Charles Darwin Research Station is also part of the "Centro de Crianza Fausto Llerena" which is the breeding center for tortoises. Tortoises are raised here in the care of researchers and then when ready re-introduced into their natural environment.
The next stop is Galapagos airport for our flight to Guayaquil.
Once in Guayaquil, a representative will drive us to have a late lunch at a local hotel. After lunch, transfer back to the airport and check in at the airline’s desk for the international flight to Lima.
Upon arrival in Lima, a representative will meet us to transfer to the hotel.
Overnight at Country Club Lima Hotel or similar
DAY5
This morning our representative will meet us in the hotel lobby to transfer to Callao Port approximately 40 minutes away to embark on the vessel.
Land Program Step by Step:
Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. This program is subject to flight confirmations which are beyond our control. All program details including timings and any flights indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Direct flights are never guaranteed. Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.
DAY 1
(Listed timings are approximate)
8:45am Disembarkation at Manta’s Port
9:00am Transfer to Guayaquil city
12:30pm Arrival to Guayaquil city
12:45pm Lunch at a local restaurant
2:00pm City tour of Guayaquil
4:30pm Drive to the hotel and check in
7:00pm Dinner at the hotel
Overnight at the HILTON COLON Guayaquil or similar hotel
DAY 2
7:00am Breakfast at the hotel
8:00am Transfer to Guayaquil´s Airport, check in procedures
10:10am Flight to Baltra Island (suggested flight LA1413 – Subject to change)
11:07am Arrival to Baltra Airport and transfer to Santa Cruz Island
12:15pm Lunch and visit to the Highlands of Santa Cruz
3:15pm Transfer to the hotel &check in
7:30pm Dinner at the hotel
Overnight at the IKALA Galapagos Hotel or similar hotel
DAY 3
7:00am Breakfast at the hotel or onboard the boat (depending on the navigable tour)
7:30am Transfer to the dock
8:30pm Navigable tour (island subject to confirmation)
1:00pm Lunch onboard or in a seated venue (depending on the island visited)
3:00pm Navigate back to the dock and transfer to the hotel.
5:30pm Leisurely time (depending on the island visited)
7:00pm Dinner at the hotel
Overnight at the IKALA Galapagos Hotel or similar hotel
DAY 4
7:15am Breakfast at your hotel
7:45am Transfer Charles Darwin Station
8:00am Visit Charles Darwin Station
10:00am Arrival at Baltra Airport - check in procedures
12:30pm Flight to Guayaquil (suggested flight LA1414 – Subject to change)
3:24pm Arrival to Guayaquil Airport
4:00pm Transfer at local restaurant
4:20pm Late Lunch at local restaurant
5:30pm Transfer to airport to board flight to Lima
8:40pm Flight to Lima (suggested flight LA 1437 - Subject to change)
10:35pm Arrival to Lima
11:20pm Transfer to the Hotel
11:40pm Check in at the hotel and Box Dinner
Overnight at the Country Club Lima Hotel or similar hotel
DAY5
8:00am Breakfast at the hotel
9:30am Hotel check out
9:45am Transfer to Callao Port
10:30am Approximate arrival at the ship for embarkation.
General Information
Expected Weather:
Overall, December in Guayaquil is characterized by warm temperatures, increased rainfall, and high humidity, with ample daylight hours and a high UV index. Average High: Approximately 32.5°C (90.5°F) Average Low: Around 22.4°C (72.3°F) Mean Temperature: About 27.1°C (80.8°F).
The Galapagos Islands have a subtropical climate regulated by the cold Humboldt Current and the warm El Nino current. The weather varies during the year. From December until May temperatures range from the low 80°s (26 C°) to the high 90°s (32°) (with possibilities of rain). From June to September temperatures vary from the low 60°s (15 C°) to the high 70°s (21°). This is the garua season (mist in the mornings). From October until December temperatures range from the 70°s (15 C°) to the 80°s (26 C°) (dry season).
What to Bring:
It is not necessary to carry much to the Galapagos, pack light and pack smart. Lightweight, fast drying materials are recommended (many synthetics; merino wool – consult your local outdoor gear shop)
•Must carry their passports.
•Cotton pants
•Shorts
•T-shirts
•Long sleeved shirt
•A windbreaker or light sweater for the evening or early morning
•Hat: preferably that cover the ears
•Lots of sunscreen lotion
•Shoes: you will have dry landings (step directly from the dinghy onto dry land) and wet landings (wade to shore from the dinghy through shallow water). You can either bring one pair of “hybrid” shoes that are good for walking and getting wet (Keens are great; Chacos and Tevas work as well), or one set of footwear for getting wet (sandals or water shoes) and one pair to bring ashore in a backpack for hiking (light hikers or sneakers)
•Sunglasses (with strap)
•An extra pair of prescription glasses (if needed)
•Small backpack to carry on land visits for your camera and water)
•Plastic bag to keep your camera or photographic equipment dry.
•Snorkeling gear (not essential)
•Wetsuit (not essential – maybe provided by boat or can be rented in the islands)
•Rash guard
•In Ecuador $50 or $100 notes are not easily accepted, so guests should try to bring small change. Travelers’ checks are not accepted.
•Medications (anything you might be using while your cruise)
•Trasderm scoop or tablets (if you are prone to sea sickness)
•Binoculars
•If you wear glasses, it is a good idea to bring contact lenses for diving and snorkeling.
•Insect repellent
•On board the boats snorkeling gear will be available for all passengers. If you use a fin size smaller than 6-7 or bigger than 10-11, please inquire with us.
Local Currency:
Ecuador’s local currency is the US Dollar
Peru’s currency is the Nuevo Sol (S/.) - some venues accepted U.S. dollars.
Electricity
Ecuador: uses 110-volt, 60 cycle electricity, same as the US. Plugs are typically the 2-pronged flat type so US travelers will not typically need a converter or adapter. In case needed, hotels can provide adapters.
Peru: The current is 220 volts AC. In most hotel bathrooms, there is an electrical outlet with 110 volts for electric shavers, but this should not be used for travel irons or hair dryers. Most hotel rooms are equipped with hairdryers and adapters.
Luggage information
The luggage allowance for all flights on this program are as follows:
One piece of luggage per person is permitted free of charge. Maximum weight 50 pounds (23 kg) and one carry-on bag with a maximum of 15pounds (17 kg).
Should guests have excess or overweight luggage, any fees will be paid by each guest at the various airports upon check in. Prices are set by the airline and are subject to change.
Carriage of Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines on internal flights per airline regulations (subject to change as each airline has their own regulations)
1. Guests must obtain a Doctor’s Certificate mentioning their medical condition and the need to carry this equipment with them on their flights.
2. The certificate should have attached a picture of the equipment with its description/specifications especially with regards to the type of batteries used (lithium/dry or any other type)
3. These documents need to be sent to the Land Program Team via Reservations at least one month prior to travel so that our local operator can begin the notification process with the airline(s).
4. Failure to comply with the above regulations may result in a denial of this equipment at the airport for which the cruise line nor our local ground operator be responsible for.
5. Guests should bring with them on the flight any paperwork from their doctor and /or specific details that explain the type of device they are bringing on board. Each brand should have a website with paperwork that can be printed for flights.
Documents and Visa Requirements:
Please note that passport holders are responsible for obtaining the required documentation applicable for entry. Please note also that passports must be valid for at least six (6) months after completion of your journey and should also have enough blank pages for visas and immigrations stamps. Oceania Cruises wont be held responsible should you be denied entry to a country due to non-compliance with these requirements. Should you require specific information ahead of travel, please consult the travel advice produced by the government of your home jurisdiction, as well as that of the government who issued the passport and/or visa you intend to travel under.
VERY IMPORTANT
The name on your cruise booking, passport and any visas if required, must all be exactly the same for flight ticket purchase for this program otherwise guests may be denied travel by flight. Please ensure that all documents are identical in spelling to the names provided for your cruise reservation including first, middle and last name.Manifests generated by the cruise line must match your travel documents.
Failure to have the required documents ahead of time will result in denial of travel and guests will have to pay for any expenses incurred in order to not proceed with the program.
The above information is subject to change and serves as a guide only. We would like to take this opportunity to remind all of our guests that it is the ultimate and sole responsibility of the guest to ensure they meet the entry requirements for each destination.
If traveling internationally, the countries you are flying to and/ or connecting through may have different document requirements and as such we encourage you to visit the government and airport websites of every country you will be traveling to throughout the journey to familiarize yourself with their requirements.
Aircraft type (subject to change):
Flight GYE-GPS-GYE Airbus A319
Flight GYE-LIM Airbus A319
Please Note:
Boat tours may be shared with independent guests if we do not reach 16 guests (incl. ship escort).
Boat sailing during the navigable day tour is usually rough and due to sea conditions, it may take longer than 2 hours.
This itinerary may change without prior notice due to National Park dispositions or due to force majeure. The islands to be visited are determined at the sole discretion of the Galapagos National Park.
Hotel Addresses:
HILTON COLON Guayaquil Hotel
Av. Francisco de Orellana Mz. 111, Guayaquil 090512
+593 4 5010000
IKALA Galapagos Hotel
Tomás de Berlanga 110 & Moisés Brito, Puerto Ayora - Galápagos, Ecuador
+593 52526133
Country Club Lima Hotel
Av. Los Eucaliptos 590, San Isidro – Lima, Perú
+511 6119000
*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required, they will be of equal ratings and standards, and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure, then you will be staying at the hotels listed in this program.
Program Includes for guests:
•Transfers
•English-speaking guides
•Porterage at hotels & airports (based on 1 piece of luggage per person)
•Airport assistance in Guayaquil and Lima
•Galapagos Naturalist Guide (provided by the Galapagos National Park) to accompany and guide the guests in the Galapagos Islands
•Snorkeling equipment
•1 full daily boat tour with lunch
•Entrance fees to the cable car, Cacao Museum
•1 night at the Hilton Colon Guayaquil Hotel (Deluxe room) on a bed & breakfast basis
•2 nights at the Ikala Galapagos Hotel or similar (Suite) on a full board basis (from dinner on the first day in the Galapagos until breakfast on the last day in the Galapagos)
•1 Night at Country Club Lima Hotel or similar (Standard) on a bed & breakfast basis
•2 glasses of local wine or beer with lunches and dinners(excepting boxed meals)
•Meals as described in the itinerary
•Box Dinner in Lima
•All activities mentioned in the itinerary
•Economy class flights per itinerary (direct flights are not guaranteed)
•Galapagos National Park taxes and entrance fees
Program Excludes for guests:
•Any meals not listed in the itinerary
•All other accommodations •All items of a personal nature, such as telephone calls, laundry & curio shop purchases
•Any other services not mentioned above.
•Alcoholic beverages and extra soft drinks
•Gratuities for drivers and guides
•Hotel incidentals including mini bar and room service.
•Excess or overweight luggage fees on flights
Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, gravel and natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion.
This is not a wheelchair accessible program and is not recommended for guests who require the use of a wheelchair or mobility scooters. Guests with mobility concerns are advised to carefully assess their personal physical capabilities and stamina. Participants must be able to independently board and disembark from transportation, including motor coaches, and should be accompanied by an able-bodied companion if assistance is needed. We encourage guests to contact the cruise line in advance to discuss any specific mobility-related questions or concerns before booking this program. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.
All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations.
Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Mid cruise overland programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty.
