Galapagos
Luxury Travel in the Galapagos Islands
“Embark on a voyage through the enchanting Galapagos Islands and follow in the footsteps of pirates, whalers, sailors and fur seal traders, and of course Charles Darwin, whose discoveries here altered the course of history and human understanding of evolution. With a remote location more than 500 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos are made up of 19 islands plus a vast number of islets and rocks. The land here is constantly shape-shifting due to volcanic activity that causes the older islands to sink progressively and the younger ones - still at least one million years old - to rise up in the seas. It’s is a stunningly biodiverse ecosystem, as more than half of the mammals, birds, reptiles and insects here are endemic. Experience thrilling up-close encounters with exotic wildlife including pink iguanas, giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, penguins, sea lions, manta rays, reef sharks, golden rays, cormorants, finches... these are just some of the inspiring species you’re likely to see as you as you roam lava fields and beaches where sand colors range from red to gold to green and black. Whether you choose an odyssey by sea on a small first class luxury vessel, a land-based class safari camp or a sleek modern hotel, this is an awesome expedition for curious explorers seeking that indescribable feeling of discovery while on the trip of a lifetime.
Spend another week exploring Ecuador, from riding horseback through the cloud forests, to meeting renowned artists and chocolatemakers in Quito, to canoe trips in the Amazon to see an astounding biodiversity, and Quilotoa Crater Lake, etc”
WHAT WE LOVE
Galapagos by sea:
luxury yachting at its finest, with yoga, meditation, excellent food, plush bedding, spacious staterooms with huge windows - it'll feel as though you've chartered a private yacht. There are so many ways to explore the Galapagos - clear bottomed boat rides, sea kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, scuba diving, guided nature walks on lava fields. You’re guaranteed an expert guide with vast knowledge of the terrain and the endemic wildlife.
Biodiversity and Endemic wildlife:
The Galapagos is home to the only penguins in the Northern Hemisphere, the only marine iguana in the world, and the rare waved albatross. These are just a few of the spectacular creatures you're sure to see on your voyage
Get away and get lost:
The Galapagos Islands are a remote, pristine wilderness. You're the visitor here and you'll feel that, gaining a new appreciation for even the tiniest insects who inhabit this magical spot on the map.
Quito Chocolate tasting:
Cooking class with a local chef, A visit to Casa Celia, an historic house and foundation once owned by famous pianist Celia Zaldumbide that educates young musicians, have tea with them, Visit the private atelier of a famous local contemporary painter.
Andean cloud forests:
north of Quito, 45 minutes outside Quito, a taste of horseback riding in the Andes with views of volcanoes and southern valleys of Quito. Or go one step further and ride with the Chagra – Ecuadorean cowboys – watch them rodeo and lasso, In the cloud forest outside quito, aerial bike and visits to the butterfly farm, hiking in the cloud forest (Mashpi Lodge), Horeseback rides and rodeos with Ecuadorean cowboys
Quilotoa Crater Lake, San Agustin de Callo and activities Amazon Rainforest
Amazon Rainforest
Canoe trips, birding, hiking, Get a close-up view of the Amazon wildlife in the Yasuní National Park, a sacred land considered one of the most diverse areas in the planet. birds like herons, kingfishers, Chances to spot some species of monkeys as well as large birds like toucans, parrots or even macaws. Spider monkeys and endemic Golden mantle tamarin monkeys. Otter families.
REST & REJUVENATE
REGION: The Galapagos Islands
MV Theory: A sleek luxury yacht with just 10 roomy, secluded staterooms, the Ecoventura MV Theory is considered the most luxurious accommodation option in the Galapagos. Cabins have individual climate control and giant windows for taking in the breathtaking ocean views. Food is locally sourced and prepared by expert chefs. When you're not exploring by land or sea, relax with a drink at the elegant bar, or take a yoga, reiki, or meditation class. Beyond the supreme level of comfort aboard the ship, the highlight of your voyage is the expert naturalist guides who create immersive wildlife experiences for guests, as well as the various adventurous ways to explore - by glass bottomed boat, sea kayak, scuba diving, or nature walks. The MV Theory and its sister ship the Origin are committed to maintaining the highest standards of sustainability and responsible operations that respect the fragile environment in which they operate.
Galapagos Safari Camp: Galapagos Safari Camp is a good choice for travelers who really want a traditional safar camp setting and the feeling that they can really connect with nature. The simple canvas tents are comfortable but basic. Service here is warm and friendly. Situated on Santa Cruz Island, so close to a tortoise reserve that you might just see one roam past your tent! and with panoramic views of the Pacific. A yoga platform and infinity pool are the luxury amenities. A 55-hectare farm that is home to many exotic bird species.
Pikaia Lodge: A Relaix & Chateau property. Modern, sleek design with incredible views. A more solid structure, with walls and windows - a different option for people who prefer something other than the tents. Santa Cruz Island is a central island of the archipelago. Hugs the rim of an extinct volcanic crater, a dramatic location. A private wild giant tortoise reserve. A former cattle ranch. Panoramic floor to ceiling windows, large terraces, private plunge pools, huge bathrooms where even the bathtubs have breathtaking views. This is the only modern design luxury hotel in the region.
REGION: The Andean Cloud Forests
Mashpi Lodge: Located about three hours by car outside Quito in the midst of a thick, spellbinding cloud forest, Mashpi Lodge is a cocoon of elegance surrounded by nature at its most pristine and untouched. Rooms and suites are modern and simple, meant to blend in with the environment. Lie back and watch from the comfort of your plush bed as the forest comes to life through floor to ceiling glass windows, or grab binoculars for early morning birdwatching on the terrace. There are so many ways to explore this famously rich and biodiverse ecosystem that sits over 3,000 feet above sea level with the highly trained naturalist guides who have grown up around the local flora and fauna - hiking on forest trails and visits to waterfalls, gliding over the treetops on the jungle swing or the awesome skybike.
Hacienda Zuleta: A 4,000 acre colonial-era working farm about 2 hours outside Quito, in the heart of the Avenue of Volcanoes, Hacienda Zuleta has belonged to the family of a former president of Ecuador for more than 100 years. The inn’s 21 guest rooms each have their own fireplace and hot water bottles for chilly nights. Rooms and suites can be joined together for groups or families. Most guests take advantage of the 60-horse stable and ride out through pine and eucalyptus forests and high-altitude grasslands where views of volcanoes lead to pre-Inca archaeological sites. Other activities include hikes and birdwatching around the nearby crater lake and the San Marcos Lagoon, visits to local food and handicraft markets, embroidery classes with locals, learning about the regions endangered species, and memorable evening bonfires with traditional Andean music to unwind from the adventures of the day.
REGION: THE AMAZON RAINFOREST
La Selva Lodge: Take a five hour journey from Quito by air, canoe and on foot, to reach rustic La Selva Lodge, situated within the Yasuni Biosphere reserve in the middle of the Amazon rainforest. The lodge’s 19 airy cabanas each have rainforest showers, private balconies with panoramic lake views, electricity and hot showers. Explore the Amazon with all kinds of adventures - kayaking, canoe rides, hiking with expert guides, birdwatching, night walks in search of wildlife, star gazing, endangered turtle adoption, and visits to the local indigenous community round out an awesome mix of fun adventures all support La Selva’s commitment to sustainability and having a positive impact on the environment and local communities. Relax after a day of exploring with a massage in the spa or a cocktail in the lovely restaurant and lounge.
REGION: QUITO
Casa Gagotena: Casa Gangotena is a boutique hotel with the stately elegance of an historic mansion, situated on the main square in the heart of Quito’s old town. The hotel’s lovely sun drenched rooms are spread over three floors, each with high ceilings and an art deco design. We especially love the charming bar and the excellent service at Gangotena.
Illa Experience Hotel: Situated in colorful San Marcos, a neighborhood known for its strong creative community of artists and musicians, Illa Experience is a lovely boutique hotel with a good mix of modern comforts and historic charm. A rooftop bar and some of the suites have incredible views of the surrounding hilly landscape. This is great spot for exploring on foot just a short distance to the main plaza and other landmarks. The onsite restaurant with its own wine cellar is known for its excellent food – an innovative take on traditional Ecuadorean cuisine, and massage treatments are available and the small spa.
REGION: QUILOTOA
Hacienda San Agustin de Callo
REGION: GUAYAQUIL
Hotel Del Parque
WHAT TO KNOW
Galapagos - when to go: there really is no off-season in the Galapagos. With a location right on top of the equator, the Galapagos receive 12 hours of sunlight year round and maintain a cool, sub-tropical climate in one of the Pacific’s dry zones, meaning it never gets overly hot and humid. Historically, December to May have been a bit warmer and wetter. Most species do not migrate and live on the islands year-round, making no time of year better than any other for seeing unique wildlife.
Galapagos - getting there - luxury vessels set sail from Quito, Ecuador with options for either 7- or 14-day itineraries.
