We’ll walk to Limpiopungo Lagoon, a beautiful lake that mirrors the dramatic surrounding peaks. Birdlife to look out for includes the Andean Gull, several species of Hummingbird and – with some luck – the majestic Condor. This mostly treeless landscape is characteristic of the Andean moorlands, or paramo, and you may see herds of llamas roaming wild here. Food aside, clothing and other handicrafts can be purchased here, and it’ll give you a chance to chat with the friendly stallholders.Ĭotopaxi National Park, set amidst mountainous splendor, is only an hour-and-a-half’s drive from Quito. The local indigenous people sell their produce here, and you‘ll see vibrantly-colored legumes, fruits and vegetables. Today you’ll get up close and personal with one of Ecuador’s natural wonders as we visit an active volcano and walk to a height of almost 12,800 ft.īut first, we’ll stop in on the photogenic Sangolqui open-air market, where you can sample different Andean specialities. This area is part of the Ecuadorian Choco rainforest, known as one of the world’s greatest biodiversity hotspots. This optional extension program is also available as post-program. Or arrive a couple of days earlier to Quito and join us on a 4-day-tour to a Cloudfores Lodge at the Mashpi Reserve. Our optional 4-day Pre-Program starts in Lima and ends in Quito. Take a look at the sparkling city lights that spread up the surrounding hills and mountains at night – truly a mesmerizing sight! Experience another highlight of South America and discover the lost civilization of the Incas, including the breath-taking mountain stronghold of Machu Picchu. It’s full of shops and cafes, and there are many handicrafts available for sale here. If you have enough time in the evening, make sure you visit the Calle La Ronda, an ancient pedestrianized street with links to poets and artists who have lived here. In fact, the city’s diligent preservation of its history caused it to be declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site back in 1978. But you don’t need to look too far beneath the contemporary façade to find the past, and the Old Town is a showcase of classical Spanish architecture. Quito was founded on an ancient Inca settlement, and today it’s a bustling and modern place. Beautifully situated in a high valley, at 9,350 ft this is the second highest capital city in the world, and the views of the nearby mountains remind you at all times of your Andean location. Your voyage of discovery begins in Quito, a city which straddles the equator and where it feels like spring is eternally in the air. Safety and sustainability are always at the core of our operations, and our aim is to leave the smallest footprint behind wherever we go.įor your safety, we always sail with a Medical Officer onboard. There’s a wide range of activities to choose from, and the Expedition Team will guide you on landings. You’ll get closer to the natural wonders with the use of our small expedition boats, kayaks, snorkeling gear and paddle boards. On this science-oriented expedition, we’ll be learning about Darwin’s discoveries, as well as making a few of our own. His seminal work On the Origin of Species, proved revolutionary. Beagle in 1835, he discovered that several species, including tortoises and land iguanas, had evolved differently depending on their habitat. When the English naturalist Charles Darwin visited here aboard H.M.S. The onboard facilities are excellent, and you can look forward to mouth-watering dishes prepared by our chefs, as well as comfortable cabins to relax in after each exciting day of discovery. You’ll take part in an unforgettable cruise and experience the very best the UNESCO protected Galápagos has to offer. From here we’ll pay a visit to an active volcano and go on a nature walk in stunning surroundings, as well as experiencing a vibrant open-air market.Īfter we fly to the Galápagos, step aboard Santa Cruz II-our comfortable and stylish expedition vessel ideally suited to remote adventures. This World Heritage city of graceful Spanish-era architecture is packed with cosy restaurants and small artisanal shops. The landings cover a wide array of ecosystems, spectacular landscapes, and great opportunities for wildlife watching, including most of the iconic animals of Galapagos.īegin your adventure with two nights at a hotel in Quito, one of South America’s most charming capitals. We will also call at Mosquera Islet, see the land iguanas of Santa Fe and South Plaza, the giant turtles of Santa Cruz, and the amazing bird colonies of Española, Eden Islet, and North Seymour. Our Eastern itinerary explores San Cristobal, the first of the four Galapagos island visited by Darwin in 1835, and the easternmost landmass of the archipelago. We offer you unique expedition cruises to sail in the footsteps of Darwin.
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