Galapagos Islands & Otavalo Highlands Multisport

Galapagos Islands & Otavalo Highlands Multisport Itinerary:

• Day 1

  Your trip begins today in Quito, Ecuador. Arrive in Quito any time today, pass through customs, gather your luggage and transfer on your own to our hotel for the evening. Dinner on your own if flight time allows.

• Day 2

  Following breakfast and ready to depart, meet your guide and other group members in the hotel lobby. We head immediately north of Quito to the highlands. For centuries, regional markets have played an important role in Indian life, providing regular gathering places for trade and socialization. Today we explore one of the most famous Ecuadorian Indian markets in Otavalo. This colorful market dates back to pre-Inca times and is well known for its fine textiles, tapestries and Indian jewelry. While in the Otavalo region we will also visit one or two of the local communities such as the Peguche, Carabuela or Quichuqui, known for their tradition of ancestral healing practices and fine craftsmanship. If time allows, we may stop for a quick hike at Peguche Falls, a pretty waterfall nestled in the green rolling hills just outside of Otavalo. This evening we retire to the lovely estate of an historic hacienda. Originally built in the 1700s and 1800s, haciendas today have modernized amenities but maintain their warm character and authenticity. Take a step back in time as you wander the lush grounds of this colonial style estate. All meals included.
  
  Optional hiking: 2-3 miles, 1 hour, between 10,000' – 11,000'.

• Day 3

  This morning we continue to explore the highlands and emerald Laguna Cuicocha (10,638'), a crater lake surrounded by the rim of Cotacachi volcano. Winding up to the lake, we drive through incredible Andean cloud forest scenery, glimpsing views of nearby snowcapped mountains. We dedicate the day to hiking and exploring this fascinating crater lake region. The flowers are superb and so is the birding. You may see such Andean birds as caracaras, buzzard eagles, hummingbirds, ducks, hawks and the occasional condor. On a clear day the views of the surrounding countryside are breathtaking. It is the perfect spot to enjoy a fantastic picnic lunch. Following our hike we will stop to visit the true Equator line, and then it's off to Papallacta Hot Springs Resort which involves crossing a 13,000' pass that offers stupendous Andean scenery. Relax in the thermal baths (some of the best in all of Ecuador) before dining on delicious local cuisine. All meals included.
  
  Hiking: 4-5 hours between 10,000' – 11,300'.

• Day 4

  After a healthy breakfast, we visit the nearby highland interpretation center to learn about the unique paramo ecosystem and the Atlantic-Pacific continental divide. Your guide will present you with several options today. Perhaps take advantage of the nourishing waters at Papallacta by scheduling a massage or soaking in the sulfate and alkaline rich waters of the spa pools. Or, choose to join your guide on a hike in a very scenic reserve, part of the larger United Nations Biosphere Reserve. The environment here is endemic highland paramo (moorlands) with patches of cloud forest. This area of the Andes retains great amounts of water as it is the source to the largest water system in the world. It features a great number of lakes, possibly the highest concentrations in the Andes range. Numerous species of orchids thrive in this lush, damp environment. While hiking, keep an eye out for birdlife. We may see up to three different species of deer and, if we're lucky, the elusive spectacle bear. Our group meets again at the resort in time for lunch and a last quick soak. This afternoon we stop at the continental divide to enjoy some fantastic views on our way back to Quito. This evening is free for you to shop and sample the delicious fare of Quito's local restaurants on your own. Breakfast and lunch included; dinner on your own.
  
  Hiking: Optional 5-7 miles, 4-5 hours. Terrain: uneven trails that may include slippery or rocky sections at altitudes up to 14,000'.

• Day 5

  It's off to the Galapagos Islands this morning! A transfer is provided to the airport where we board our flight to the islands, located roughly 600 miles offshore. After our plane makes a brief stop in Guayaquil, we land on San Cristobal Island where we spend the next two days hiking, kayaking, and snorkeling. Upon arrival in the Galapagos you are obligated to pay a park entrance fee of $100 per person (subject to change) - you should have this handy in U.S. dollars. After lunch overlooking the ocean, we head out for an afternoon of exploration. Our first stop is the impressive San Cristobal Interpretation Center where we learn about the volcanic formation of the Galapagos archipelago and the unique evolution of life on the islands. Our walk this afternoon is along trails of lava rock into dry forest of cacti, acacia, palo santo, Galapagos cotton, and other endemic vegetation and features splendid views of the rugged coastline. As we approach Frigate Hill, be on the lookout for blue footed boobies, the magnificent frigate bird, Darwin finches and much more. On our way back to our lodging, we may stop for a refreshing dip at Carola or Mann Beaches. In the evening we explore the small town of Port Baquerizo Moreno before dining at our waterfront hotel. All meals included.
  
  Hiking: 3 miles, about 2 hours.

• Day 6

  Today is all about being on the water! After breakfast we slip into our ocean kayaks and spend the morning paddling along the coast, past Carola Beach and onto Darwin Bay, the site of the first landing of the HMS Beagle. The route is home to colonies of sea lions, marine turtles, blue-footed boobies, and frigate birds. Once we reach Playa Ochoa, we continue on to nearby Isla Lobos on the lookout for marine iguanas and sea lions. This is a fantastic snorkeling site where we are nearly guaranteed to enjoy one of the best sea lion encounters in the entire archipelago. We continue on to Leon Dormido, locally known as Kicker Rock, the jagged remains of an old tuff cone whose flanks are home to thousands of sea birds. At Leon Dormido we enjoy excellent snorkeling. There is a good chance of seeing Galapagos sharks, eagles and golden rays, as well as dozens of species of tropical fish, clams, starfish, and marine invertebrates. With a little luck we may also swim with hammerhead and white-tipped sharks. We return to our hotel for dinner and our last evening on San Cristobal. All meals included.
  
  Kayaking: 2-3 hours; Snorkeling: 2-3 hours.

• Day 7

  After an early breakfast we take a flight from San Cristobal to Isabela Island, the largest island in the archipelago. Isabela was formed by six volcanoes - Alcedo, Cerro Azul, Darwin, Ecuador, Sierra Negra and Wolf. Five of these volcanoes remain active, making this island one of the most volcanically active places on earth. This is a remarkably beautiful island and one of the youngest in the archipelago. Isabela is also known for its beautiful and expansive white sand beaches. After lunch we head to Las Tintoreras, a set of small islets within Isabela bay, to walk through the otherworldly landscape of lava rocks. The islets are filled with wildlife - marine iguanas, blue footed boobies, whitetip reef sharks, marine turtles, penguins, and much more. The rest of the afternoon is free to enjoy the lovely white sand beaches in the port town of Puerto Villamil. All meals included.
  
  Hiking: 1 hour; Snorkeling: 1 hour.

• Day 8

  Today we explore the fascinating Galapagos highlands! We get an early start this morning to begin our hike over rugged terrain to the rim of the Sierra Negra Volcano, the second largest intact caldera in the world after Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania. The trail can be quite muddy or dusty depending on the season, but the walk is well worth it as the vantage point from the rim offers fantastic views of the six by five mile wide lava-filled caldera as well as the other volcanoes beyond and the surrounding coastline. After catching our breath, we can choose to continue along the trail to Chico Volcano. With its puffing fumaroles and striking lava formations, it offers an out-of-this-world environment and good examples of the dramatic geological events that have forged the Galapagos Islands over millennia. In the afternoon we return to our lovely hotel with free time to wander the beach, swim or watch the iguanas and sea lions before dinner at our hotel. All meals included.
  
  Hiking: 3-9 miles. Up to 5 hours. Terrain: uneven trails that may include slippery or rocky sections.

• Day 9

  After breakfast we gear up for a bike tour of Isabela Island and El Muro de las Lágrimas - Wall of Tears. With miles of unpaved, sandy streets, mountain bikes are the perfect way to explore the island. We ride along the coast with spectacular views as we pedal through mangroves and salty lagoons that are home to the mangrove finch, endemic to Isabela. We can also spot American oyster catchers, herons, flamingos, and many other shore birds. We reach the Wall of Tears, a historic site that dates back between 1946 and 1959 when Isabela was a penal colony. The wall was built by prisoners using huge blocks of lava for no other reason than to keep the prisoners busy from the madness of isolation. On our way back we ride by and explore Isabela's gorgeous white sand beaches. In the afternoon we can take the opportunity to walk through mangrove forest to Concha y Perla bay, whose clear waters are perfect for snorkeling. All meals included.
  
  Mountain biking: 8-10 miles, unpaved, sand and gravel roads with some rolling hills; Snorkeling: 1-2 hours.

• Day 10

  After an early breakfast, we transfer (flight or fast boat depending on oceanic conditions) from Isabela to Santa Cruz Island. Once there we head to El Chato Reserve in the upper part of Santa Cruz Island – the natural habitat of the Santa Cruz tortoise, the largest in the Galapagos. The most recognized symbol of the Galapagos, the tortoise weights over 500 pounds and may have a shell measuring almost five feet! While we seek out these lumbering giants, we'll also come across pintail ducks, egrets, flycatchers, finches, and frigate birds bathing in freshwater lakes. We enjoy lunch at a traditional highland hacienda where we also explore lava caves featuring incredible volcanic tunnel formations. On a clear day we can see Media Luna from here, an old collapsed crater on top of Santa Cruz Island. After lunch we slip into our kayaks and paddle around Divine Bay and Punta Estrada, traveling through multiple lava channels of calm, turquoise waters. Within the channels, white tipped sharks and rays patrol beneath the waves while colonies of blue footed-boobies, tropic birds, herons and marine iguanas perch along the jagged cliffs. Enjoy a farewell dinner this evening as you wrap up your adventure to one of the most magical places on earth. All meals included.
  
  Kayaking: 3 hours.

• Day 11

  Early this morning we visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn about conservation and management efforts in the archipelago. The research station is also home to "Lonesome George", the very last tortoise of his particular species from Pinta Island. We then bid farewell to the Galapagos and transfer to Baltra Island where we board our flight back to Quito. We say goodbye to our guide this afternoon and then have free time to explore Quito or shop for last souvenirs. Meet your group in the hotel lobby this evening for dinner at a local restaurant. All meals included; light lunch on flight.

• Day 12

  You can depart anytime today. Transfer on your own to airport for flights home. Or, continue your adventure in Ecuador by joining us for our five day Amazon Wildlife Kayaking extension. Breakfast included.
  
  Explore even more. See the Amazon Wildlife Kayaking trip extension for this trip.

Although we do our very best to adhere to the schedule listed above, this itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control.  This includes changes to activity locations in the Galapagos due to changes in regulations and permitting by the Galapagos National Park Service.

If you are traveling alone and specifically request single accommodations, you will be asked to pay the full single supplement noted above. If you wish to share accommodations, we will assign a roommate if one is available. If a roommate cannot be found, you will be asked to pay a reduced single fee, which is one-half of the full single supplement. Please be advised that there are a limited number of single rooms available.

Accommodations and meals as noted in the daily itinerary; private transfer in Otavalo highlands; airport transfers Quito-Galapagos-Quito; inter-island transfers; sea kayaks and necessary paddling gear, bikes/helmets, snorkel/mask/fins; services of a skilled bi-lingual guide throughout.

International airfare to and from Quito; airport transfers on international flights in and out of Quito; round trip airfare from Quito to Galapagos, Galapagos Islands transit card (mandatory add-on cost & subject to change); Galapagos National Park entrance fee; 2 dinners; travel/evacuation insurance; optional activities; optional wet-suit for snorkeling; excess baggage charges; airport taxes; alcoholic beverages or soft drinks; optional gratuities to your guides; items of a personal nature.

In addition to the required $400 deposit to reserve your space on this trip, the cost of the internal flight to the islands and the Galapagos Transit Fee is also due at the time of registration. The deposit, flight and fee are non-refundable 90 days prior to departure. If you needed to cancel your participation on this trip for a reason covered by your optional Travel Insurance plan, this flight cost would be reimbursable by that plan.

This trip is rated Moderate [3].  It contains a variety of activities including moderate hikes, mountain biking, and sea kayaking. Although not particularly strenuous, the entire hike in the Otavalo highlands is above 10,000' and, as a result, can be more tiring than expected. In general, the island hiking is moderate in both length and terrain. We are not moving at a fast pace as our primary objective is to take time to enjoy the wildlife. The biking on Isabela Island is on unpaved, sand and gravel roads with some small rolling hills. You can choose not to bike this portion. Sea kayaking is broken up with stops to take advantage of the snorkeling opportunities.

Quito is at 9,200 feet above sea-level and maintains a spring-like climate year round. The temperature ranges from 55° at night to 70° at midday, with the average temperature being in the mid-60s. In the Highlands, the average temperatures range in the mid-50s to upper 60s/low 70s year round. Be prepared for some rain at any time of year. In cloudy and/or rainy conditions temperatures may feel cooler. The Galapagos have two seasons. The warm and rainy season lasts from January to June, and the average air temperature ranges from the low 80s to the low 90s with the average water temperature around 75°. There are many warm, often hot, sunny periods interspersed by rain showers. From July to December, the cooler and dryer months, the average air temperature is in the 70s with an average water temperature hovering between 64-68°. There may be occasional mist and overcast skies due to the garúa (fog) that sometimes pervades the islands at this time of year. A sweater or jacket is often needed at night. Note that at any time of year, the highlands on the islands are often enveloped in mist and fog keeping them much greener than areas near their shores.

This trip is subject to the booking information set forth in the current REI Adventures Reservation Information. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A full gear list and pre-departure information is sent upon sign-up. We highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance through REI Adventures. If coverage is purchased at the time of your initial reservation, the 'Pre-existing Conditions Exclusion' is waived (certain exclusions apply).

We look forward to having you join us for the trip of a lifetime! Why wait? Space is limited, reserve your adventure today.

The key to staying comfortable during this trip is layering. To obtain maximum comfort with minimum weight, you need versatile layers that mix and match to create the right amount of insulation, ventilation and weather protection.  This gear list has been created to help you choose your clothing and gear for this trip. Bring only what is necessary, as this will help you and the field staff. 

Weather

Quito is at 9,200 feet above sea-level and maintains a spring-like climate year round. The temperature ranges from 55° at night to 70° at midday, with the average temperature being in the mid-60s. In the Highlands, the average temperatures range in the mid-50s to upper 60s/low 70s year round. Be prepared for some rain at any time of year. In cloudy and/or rainy conditions temperatures may feel cooler. The Galapagos have two seasons. The warm and rainy season lasts from January to June, and the average air temperature ranges from the low 80s to the low 90s with the average water temperature around 75°. There are many warm, often hot, sunny periods interspersed by rain showers. From July to December, the cooler and dryer months, the average air temperature is in the 70s with an average water temperature hovering between 64-68°. There may be occasional mist and overcast skies due to the garúa (fog) that sometimes pervades the islands at this time of year. A sweater or jacket is often needed at night. Note that at any time of year, the highlands on the islands are often enveloped in mist and fog keeping them much greener than areas near their shores.

Gear Checklist

Things to Consider

• Always pack essential items such as your passport, money, eyewear, medications, hiking shoes and one set of spare clothes in your carry-on baggage in case your luggage is delayed.
• If the weather dictates the need to fly rather than to boat between islands, the flight(s) between the islands have a strict checked luggage limit of 25 pounds. If luggage exceeds this limit, it may be transferred by sea transportation with possible delay. Extra luggage is stored in Quito while you are in the islands so keeping your luggage to 25 pounds or less should be easily accommodated.
• Quick-drying, synthetic clothing items are advisable. In the Galapagos, you can hand-wash in your hotel room or send out laundry (allowing for a 24-hour turn around).
• Cotton is wonderful in warm weather. However, once it becomes wet it drains your body heat. Plan on bringing at least two synthetic t-shirts made of fabric such as Capilene®, MTS® and Thermax®.
• Make sure your hiking boots/shoes are broken-in, and bring moleskin, Second Skin® or Blister Block® for foot treatment. Thin liner socks worn under regular hiking socks may minimize the risk of blisters (the liner sock should be silk or synthetic).
• A shorty 2mm or 3mm wetsuit is highly recommended. While it is possible to snorkel without one, you will be much more comfortable and be able to snorkel and enjoy the marine life longer while wearing one. Note: It is possible to rent a wetsuit once in the Galapagos (~$30/week) but it is recommended to bring your own for best fit.
• A mask, snorkel and fins are provided, but you can bring your own for best fit and comfort.
• Sarongs make excellent lightweight, quick-drying and compact travel and beach towels. Another good option is the REI MultiTowel (available in various sizes) or similar. See www.rei.com for details.
• The sun is particularly strong on the equator, so a good sun hat and a long-sleeved, light-colored shirt are important. Bring plenty of water-resistant sunscreen.
• For those joining the Amazon Wildlife Kayaking Extension, no additional clothing or gear items are necessary.