Highlights of Quito and Galapagos Cruise

Highlights of Quito and Galapagos Cruise

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7 Days From

$3044

Highlights of Quito and Galapagos Cruise

7 Days Starting and ending in Quito, Ecuador

Visiting: Quito, Galapagos Islands, Santa Cruz, Genovesa Island

Tour operator:

Indus Travels

Tour code:

IndTur213

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 22

Physical rating:

Easy

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Cruise

From: $3044

NB: Prices correct on 19-Sep-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey with the "Highlights of Quito and Galapagos Cruise" tour, exploring the vibrant city of Quito and the unique wildlife of the Galapagos Islands. Begin your adventure with breathtaking views from Penecillo Hill in Quito before flying to the Galapagos Islands. Discover the famous Giant Tortoises on Santa Cruz Island, marvel at pink flamingos in the Flamingo Lagoon on Floreana, and observe Blue Footed Boobies and Hawks on Espanola Island. Get up close with sea lions on San Cristobal and visit the remote Genovesa Islands, home to a red-footed booby colony. Enjoy superior accommodations and full board meals on a luxurious cruise, with all transportation and guided tours included.

Highlights

  • Enjoy the breathtaking viewpoint from Penecillo Hill in Quito

  • Search for the famous Giant Tortoises on Santa Cruz Island

  • Discover pink flamingos in the Flamingo Lagoon on Floreana

  • See the Blue Footed Boobies and Hawks on Espanola Island

  • Get up close and personal with the sea lions on San Cristobal

  • Visit the beautiful and remote Genovesa Islands, famous for its red-footed booby colony

  • Explore the mangroves by panga to find rich marine wildlife in Black Turtle Cove

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Quito (Arrival)

Location: Quito

Accommodation Name: hotel

Make your own way to the airport for your international flight to Quito. Enjoy inflight meals and services. Upon arrival in Quito, you will be met by your guide at the airport and transferred to your hotel.




Overnight in Quito

Day 2: Quito – Galapagos Islands (By Flight) (Embarkation): Santa Cruz (B/L/D)

Location: Galapagos Islands

Accommodation Name: Onboard Cruise

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Baltra Island, one of the world-famous Galapagos Islands. As you prepare to land in Baltra, look out the window. The landscape below will seem otherworldly – you will truly be landing in a place that is like no other. The Galapagos Islands are unique, and you will certainly see why! Upon arrival, you will be met by our cruise staff and escorted to your boat. Afternoon enjoy the highlands, visit a tortoise Ranch, and see some of the amazing volcanic formations on Santa Cruz. Take an excursion to the Highlands of Santa Cruz and get a chance to see the Galapagos giant tortoise in its natural surroundings. Explore the area and its incredible underground lava tunnels, some are more than 1km long! Wander along the volcanic tubes and keep an eye out for the nocturnal barn owls and sometimes roost here.


Overnight Onboard Cruise

Day 3: Dragon Hill / Chinese Hat (B/L/D)

Location: Santa Cruz

Accommodation Name: Onboard Cruise

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning travel to the west coast of Santa Cruz to Visit Cerro Dragón (Dragon Hill) for some prime birdwatching. Take a short walk from the beach to a hypersalinic (saltier than the ocean) lagoon frequented by pink flamingos, common stilts, pintail ducks, and other species of birds. Pass through a Scalesia tree forest; endemic to the area, there are only 400 specimens of Scalesia trees left in the world. Your journey continues to arrive at a small uniquely shaped island off the southern tip of santiago called Chinese Hat. Here it is often possible to see galápagos penguins, and the marine life is fantastic for snorkelling. There is also a large sea lion colony as well as many marine iguanas that can be seen while walking amongst the volcanic scenery. Trek to see good views of the island's volcano. Explore Chinese Hats beautiful landscape and spectacular white-coral sand beach. Snorkel right from the white-coral sand beach and come face to face with playful sea lions and large schools of tropical fish. Keep an eye out for marine iguanas and penguins too!


Overnight Onboard Cruise

Day 4: El Barranco / Darwin Bay (B/L/D)

Location: Genovesa Island

Accommodation Name: Onboard Cruise

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Visit the beautiful and remote Genovesa Islands. This northern island, famous for its red-footed colony, is a paradise for bird lovers. It is estimated that about 200,00 Red-footed boobies live on this island. Start our day with the visit to El Barranco or Prince Phillipss Steps as otherwise known. It was named after a visit by the British Monarch in 1964, El Barranco's steep 81-foot stairway leads up to a high cliff-face that opens out onto the plateau surrounding Darwin Bay offering you an amazing view of the surrounding. Once at the top of the stairway meet Nazca boobies, red-footed boobies, mockingbirds, and finches along the way of a palo santo trail. It will also be possible to see wedge-rumped storm petrels swarm and short-eared owls. Next sail to visit Genovsa Islands also known as Darwin Bay, formed by the collapse of the flooded caldera of Tower Island. After landing at a small sand and coral beach, it easy to realize why this island is a bird lover paradise. Among the bird species found here, the most common are swallow-tailed and lava gulls, mockingbirds, yellow-crowned night herons, lava herons, Galapagos doves and yellow warblers. Continue on a short and flat trail to encounter red-footed booby and great frigatebird nests. Visit a tidal lagoon where sea lions swim playfully ending our path on a cliff with magnificent views of this remote part of the Galapagos.


Overnight Onboard Cruise

Day 5: Black Turtle Cove- Baltra Island (Disembarkation) – Quito (By Flight) (B/-/-)

Location: Quito

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Explore the mangroves by panga to find rich marine wildlife between the fresh and salt waters. Keep any eye out for manta rays and sea turtles in this tranquil ecosystem. Whitetip reef sharks can also be seen gliding by.. In the afternoon you will be transferred to Baltra Airport for your flight to Quito. Quito is the largest colonial town in the Americas and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you will see extensive architecture ranging from modern skyscrapers to colonial churches. Upon arrival, you will be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy rest of the day at leisure.


Overnight in Quito

Day 6: Quito (B/-/-)

Location: Quito

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, you may head on a guided city tour of Quito. You will explore the Colonial District of the city, learn more about Quitos long and fascinating past, and visit Plaza de la Independencia, the citys main square. Here you can see the Cathedral, the Presidential Palace, and several historic churches. You can also enjoy the breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings from the viewpoint at Penecillo Hill before returning to your hotel, where you can relax and unwind.




Overnight in Quito

Day 7: Quito (Departure) (B/-/-)

Location: Quito

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today you will be transferred back to the airport for your flight home.

What's Included

  • Accommodation in Superior Hotels

    03 nights accommodation on a twin sharing basis at listed superior hotels or similar.

  • Accommodation on Superior Cruise

    03 nights accommodation on a twin sharing basis at listed superior cruise or similar.

  • Daily Buffet Breakfast

    Daily buffet breakfast is included.

  • Full Board Meal Plan

    Full Board meal plan during Galapagos Cruise.

  • Airport Transfers

    All arrival and departure airport transfers are included.

  • Transportation

    All transportation is provided in modern, air-conditioned vehicles, including domestic round-trip flights to and from the Galapagos Islands.

  • English-Speaking Guide

    Services of English-speaking guide during the tours.

  • Sightseeing

    All sightseeing as per the detailed itinerary.

  • Entrance Fees

    All entrance fees as per the detailed itinerary.

  • Domestic Flights

    Domestic round-trip flights to/from Galapagos Islands.

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What's Not Included

  • Personal Expenses

    Items of personal nature, tips and gratuities.

  • Visa Fees

    Visa fees if applicable.

  • Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee

    Galapagos National Park entrance fee (USD 200 pp, to be paid locally in cash only).

  • Transit Control Card & Lobito Fee

    Transit Control Card (USD 20 pp) & Lobito Fee – Batra Island (USD 10 pp).

    Pre-tour purchase is mandatory.

    $30 Fee must be paid with the final payment 75 days prior to departure.

  • Unmentioned Items

    Any items not mentioned as included.

Mode of Transport

All transportation is provided in modern, air-conditioned vehicles, including domestic round-trip flights to and from the Galapagos Islands.

Accommodation

Enjoy 3 nights in superior hotels in Quito and 3 nights on a superior cruise in the Galapagos Islands, both on a twin sharing basis.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on this tour?

    You can expect to see a variety of wildlife including Giant Tortoises on Santa Cruz Island, pink flamingos in the Flamingo Lagoon on Floreana, Blue Footed Boobies and Hawks on Espanola Island, sea lions on San Cristobal, and a red-footed booby colony on Genovesa Islands. Additionally, you may encounter Galapagos penguins, marine iguanas, and various species of birds such as Nazca boobies, mockingbirds, and finches.

  • What activities are included during the Galapagos Cruise?

    During the Galapagos Cruise, you will enjoy activities such as birdwatching at Dragon Hill, snorkeling at Chinese Hat, exploring volcanic formations and lava tunnels on Santa Cruz, and visiting the red-footed booby colony on Genovesa Islands. You will also have opportunities to see marine wildlife in Black Turtle Cove and take guided walks to observe various bird species and other wildlife.

  • What kind of accommodation is provided on this tour?

    The tour includes 3 nights in superior hotels in Quito and 3 nights on a superior cruise in the Galapagos Islands, both on a twin sharing basis.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, daily buffet breakfast is included throughout the tour. During the Galapagos Cruise, a full board meal plan is provided, which includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

  • What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?

    All transportation is provided in modern, air-conditioned vehicles. This includes domestic round-trip flights to and from the Galapagos Islands, as well as all arrival and departure airport transfers.

  • Will there be a guide during the tour?

    Yes, the services of an English-speaking guide are provided during the tours.

  • Are there any additional fees that I should be aware of?

    Yes, there are additional fees such as the Galapagos National Park entrance fee (USD 200 per person), Transit Control Card (USD 20 per person), and Lobito Fee for Batra Island (USD 10 per person). These fees must be paid locally in cash.

  • What is the itinerary for the first day of the tour?

    On the first day, you will make your own way to the airport for your international flight to Quito. Upon arrival in Quito, you will be met by your guide at the airport and transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay.

  • What can I expect during the city tour of Quito?

    During the city tour of Quito, you will explore the Colonial District, visit Plaza de la Independencia, and see the Cathedral, the Presidential Palace, and several historic churches. You will also enjoy breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings from the viewpoint at Penecillo Hill.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    Yes, but only in case it was previously agreed by both sides and arranged by us.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Our e-document package includes all local contact details, daily itinerary, airline e-ticket information, service vouchers, and travel tips which should be everything you require to go on your trip.

  • If I need one, who is responsible to obtain my visa?

    You are responsible for obtaining the proper travel documents for the destinations on your itinerary, including having a passport that is valid for at least 6 months before the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the Visa section in the Know Before You Go document for the countries you will be visiting.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    No, not as standard. Solo travellers can book and occupy their own room for a supplement.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    We have been organizing unforgettable trips since 2001.

  • Can I arrange flights via Indus Travels, too?

    In some cases, yes. Indus Travels can provide flights from/to selected departure points in the USA. If you would like a quote inclusive of flights, please let us know and we'll be happy to check the details for you!

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    Changes to an existing reservation up to the Final Payment Date, whatever the cause, will incur a $100 per person amendment fee, potential loss of any supplier fees (such as non-refundable event tickets, park permits, and sea cruise reservations) plus any costs for replacement services. On/ after the Final Payment Date, the $100 change fee is no longer valid, instead cancellations terms apply.

Reviews of this operator

Joyce Elyse Baumbach  

The tour organized by Indus Travels ...

16-Dec-2022

The tour organized by Indus Travels was flawless. Hotels, tours, and transportation all impressed me. We had a very relaxing time knowing what was happening at each stage. The scenery and activities were fantastic and did not disappoint. The highlight of the trip was definitely Galapagos Islands.

Indus Travel Reviews
Sirjirick Gibson (Google Reviewer)  

This is my fourth Indus...

20-Aug-2024

This is my fourth Indus trip coming up. I love the way the app works. I love the way the trips are organized and small groupings. I love the accommodations. I love the transportation it’s just top-notch service for individual traveler. I just completed my fourth trip with This and I have already signed up for my up-and-coming fifth trip with Indus travel. Once again, I have to say the service of this is absolutely top-notch service. I am so grateful to have this opportunity to travel and style and comfort. The organization of this is top-notch service from start to finish.. I have to say this sales management and associate team is absolutely amazing which basically allows me to continuously book my trips through end this. My travel life is to travel to as many countries as possible, and it will all be done through excellent job. I would like to give a special thanks to Rachel P. And Ravi., I have been involved with Rachel for the past five years and I will continue to travel within due to the fact that she makes this such a pleasant experience. Great job to her..

Neeraj Nauhwaar (Google Reviewer)  

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with...

07-Dec-2023

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with them visiting Cairo and a 03 Nights Cruise from Luxor to Aswan in May. All services were perfect since the time we arrived at the airport, we were met by a hospitable Indus Representative who helped us with the purchase of local SIM and currency exchange. He was always there in time to assist for transfers. The Amwaj Cruise which we took from Luxor to Aswan was a Gem. We had great guides and all sightseeing worked like a clockwork. We enjoyed visiting Karnak Temples, Temples of Edfu, Kom Ombo and the boat ride to see Phillae Temple. Evening entertainment on cruise were great and engaging. In Cairo and Aswan, we had ample leisure time to explore on own, the Pyramids were impressive and visiting Khan e Khalili was fun. Overall and impressive and enjoyable tour, Thanks to Indus Travels!

Dhruv R (Google Reviewer)  

Recently went on a Rhine...

09-Jun-2023

Recently went on a Rhine River Cruise, a first for me. I must say the experience was exceptional, their tagline says. The group I was with were some of the most fun and interesting set of people I've ever traveled with. The ground transportation arrangements were top notch and comfortable. Variety in menu that we were provided with in the cruise was astounding. I was a bit worried if they'd have much options for me as I'm a vegetarian. But they not only had options, the taste was something I'd savor for foreseeable future. There's a reason Rhine cruises are popular owing to it's serene and picturesque route. Guided tours were very informative and gave us a bit of an insight of German culture. We had good amount of time to explore the towns on our own too. Strasbourg and Cochem were my favorite stops. Luckily the weather worked in our favour and it didn't rain the way it was predicted originally. No one from our group wanted the tour to end. If this trip was any indication, I can't wait to book my next trip with Indus Travels.

Dennis V (Google Reviewer)  

My wife and I travelled...

02-Jul-2024

My wife and I travelled with Indus on the essentials Portugal Spain Switzerland and Italy tour last October and had the time of our lives. The tour was very well planned we visited a lot of the highlights the countries had to offer. The tour went very smoothly with knowledgeable guides and courteous drivers. We would highly recommend travelling with Indus.

Gloria Parra (Google Reviewer)  

Indus Travel runs a highly...

04-Mar-2024

Indus Travel runs a highly professional organization. From customer service to brochures, bookings, tour guides, etc. and the consideration for their customers is superb. This was the first time I had travelled with Indus Travels. We took the Taste of Portugal Tour. Group numbers are small, accommodation comfortable and food excellent. The expert guide who accompanied us was outstanding - passionate, informative, engaging, and entertaining. This company is obviously at the heart of the itinerary planning, and attention to detail is second to none. I would highly recommend this company to anyone wanting a fun, relaxed, educational vacation with fine food - they will deliver! We will never forget this trip and we are already planning for another one to Wonders of Italy, Vienna, Budapest, and Prague.

Olivia  

Best of Italy

16-Nov-2022

Indus Travels did an excellent job planning the trip to Italy. We were on Best of Italy in Oct 2022. The tour was 5 stars all the way. The hotel accommodations were comfortable and clean & guides were top-notch.

Indus Travel Reviews
DJWalter Capote (Google Reviewer)  

We were looking for a...

07-Oct-2023

We were looking for a customized, small group tour. We took a chance on Indus without knowing much about the company. We just returned from our trip to Greece and are more than highly please and satisfied with our experience. They planned an amazing itinerary, booked amazing hotels, hired knowledgeable tour guides and arranged high quality transportation services. Everyone went above and beyond to please us. We are already planning a trip for next year (2024) and will definitely use Indus to do so.

Carole Pollack (Google Reviewer)  

Glimpse of Egypt Quick paced tour...

11-Jul-2023

Glimpse of Egypt Quick paced tour taken after Egypt opened back up to tourists, particularly Americans. Went in November and weather was beautiful. Decent hotels and overnight Nile cruise. You will see a lot on this tour and be aware there are some early wake ups. Lots of walking but doable if you're in decent shape. Overall a fun tour with all the sites you have only seen in books!

Erik Folke (Google Reviewer)  

Indus has some very good...

24-May-2024

Indus has some very good tour itineraries at very competitive prices. I called with several specific questions about land only vs. air included, and they were immediately responsive, and within hours had the website description updated to assist anyone else who might have the same questions. I called again with specific questions about insurance, and the first person to answer the phone was completely knowledgeable based on past experience and gave me good advice. Four stars vs. five only because I just made the booking yesterday, and withhold one pending how this whole trip turns out two months from now.

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Indus Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 45 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of indus travels charges.

    Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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