Ecuador & Its Galápagos Islands (Treasure of Galapagos)
Ecuador & Its Galápagos Islands (Treasure of Galapagos)
Ecuador & Its Galápagos Islands (Treasure of Galapagos)
8 Days Starting and ending in Quito, Ecuador
Visiting: Quito, Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos Islands, Bartolomé Island, Mosquera Islet, San Cristobal Island, San Cristobal
Tour operator:
Ship Name:
Treasure of GalapagosGuide Type:
Fully Guided
Ship Capacity:
18
Age range:
8-99
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands with the "Treasure of Galapagos" tour. Begin your adventure in Quito, exploring its rich history and vibrant culture, including visits to the San Francisco Monastery and a local chocolate factory. Fly to the Galápagos Islands and board the Treasure of Galápagos for a five-day cruise, where you'll experience the unique wildlife and stunning landscapes of Santa Cruz, Santiago, Bartolomé, North Seymour, and San Cristobal Islands. Enjoy naturalist-guided walks, snorkeling, and the chance to see iconic species like giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, and Galápagos penguins. Conclude your journey back in Quito, enriched by the wonders of this biodiverse paradise. With luxurious accommodations, full board meals, and expert guides, this tour offers an unparalleled exploration of one of the world's most extraordinary destinations.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive In Quito,Ecuador
Location: Quito
Accommodation Name: Swissotel
Bienvenido a Ecuador! South America’s Most Biodiverse Country Take free time today to relax and prepare for your upcoming Galápagos adventure or walk through the historic city to sample ceviche or helado (Latin-American ice cream). Dine out tonight or ask about the best clubs for music and dancing.
ARRIVE IN QUITO, ECUADOR Bienvenido a Ecuador! South America’s Most Biodiverse Country Take free time today to relax and prepare for your upcoming Galápagos adventure or walk through the historic city to sample ceviche or helado (Latin-American ice cream). Dine out tonight or ask about the best clubs for music and dancing.
Day 2: Quito
Location: Quito
Accommodation Name: Swissotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Take a Guided Walk down Calle La Ronda—one of Quito’s oldest streets—with a wealth of artist’s workshops and galleries where you’ll meet local artists and learn about their original works. Later, visit a local chocolate factory for a tour and a tasting to discover why Ecuador is one of the world’s finest chocolate producers.
Your day in Quito ends with a Guided Excursion to the Ciudad Mitad del Mundo—a monument to the Equator—the “middle of the world”. Stand in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres at the same time at the exact location of the Earth’s Equator. Observe the equatorial effects of the dual-spiraling directions of water and balancing eggs on end.
QUITO A Gold Altar, Artistic Avenues, and Two Hemispheres in One DayDISCOVERY Travel through the Tandayapa Valley to the Andean Chocó cloud forest and nature reserve. The Alambi Reserve, renowned for bird watching, is home to more than 250 species of birds, including 30 different hummingbirds. While here, visit the hummingbird garden to observe these characteristic birds in their natural habitat. CLASSIC Take a Guided Sightseeing Tour of Quito that showcases the colonial city’s historic sites, including the impressive Legislative Palace with its enormous, sculpted mural of Ecuadorean history. You’ll also see Independence Plaza and visit the 16th-century San Francisco Monastery, and La Compañía Church—the exquisite Jesuit cathedral with its spectacular Spanish baroque architecture—more than 160 years in the making. DISCOVERY Take a Guided Walk down Calle La Ronda—one of Quito’s oldest streets—with a wealth of artist’s workshops and galleries where you’ll meet local artists and learn about their original works. Later, visit a local chocolate factory for a tour and a tasting to discover why Ecuador is one of the world’s finest chocolate producers.CLASSIC Your day in Quito ends with a Guided Excursion to the Ciudad Mitad del Mundo—a monument to the Equator—the “middle of the world”. Stand in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres at the same time at the exact location of the Earth’s Equator. Observe the equatorial effects of the dual-spiraling directions of water and balancing eggs on end.This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at a famed local restaurant with delicious regional cuisine.(B,D)
Day 3: Baltra,Galápagos Islands (Embarkation),Santa Cruz Island
Location: Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos Islands
Accommodation Name: Treasure of Galapagos
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Join your naturalist on a Guided Excursion to Santa Cruz Island to visit the Charles Darwin Research Station— established to help conserve the Galápagos’ natural habitat and protect the famous giant tortoises. While here, learn about the tortoise-rearing program and see many of the various islands’ tortoises.
BALTRA–GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS (EMBARKATION)–SANTA CRUZ ISLAND The Theory of Evolution—and Giant BabiesThis morning, take a flight to the Galápagos Island of Baltra where you’ll embark on your five-day cruise aboard the Treasure of Galápagos. DISCOVERY Join your naturalist on a Guided Excursion to Santa Cruz Island to visit the Charles Darwin Research Station— established to help conserve the Galápagos’ natural habitat and protect the famous giant tortoises. While here, learn about the tortoise-rearing program and see many of the various islands’ tortoises.Later on board your ship, join in a briefing of the next day’s adventures, and enjoy a Captain’s welcome with cocktails and dinner.NOTE: The ship’s itinerary may vary according to Galápagos National Park policies and regulations, weather conditions, and seasonal changes to create the perfect cross-section of sites visited.(B,L,D)
Day 4: Bartolomé Island
Location: Bartolomé Island
Accommodation Name: Treasure of Galapagos
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning, you will find yourself anchored in the western-central part of the archipelago where volcanoes are still active, attributing to the dramatic scenery. Take a Naturalist Led Excursion of Sullivan Bay on Santiago Island where you will walk on newly formed (less than 100 years ago) lava flows reminiscent of the lunar landscape. You can catch sight of lava lizards, marine iguanas, Sally Lightfoot crabs, and even the Galápagos penguin.
SANTIAGO ISLAND Volcanoes, Marine Life, and Lunar Landscapes DISCOVERY This morning, you will find yourself anchored in the western-central part of the archipelago where volcanoes are still active, attributing to the dramatic scenery. Take a Naturalist Led Excursion of Sullivan Bay on Santiago Island where you will walk on newly formed (less than 100 years ago) lava flows reminiscent of the lunar landscape. You can catch sight of lava lizards, marine iguanas, Sally Lightfoot crabs, and even the Galápagos penguin.This afternoon, cruise to Bartolomé Island.BARTOLOMÉ ISLANDHike the Summit, Snorkel, and Swim ACTIVE Take a Guided Hike to Bartolome’s 114-meter summit for spectacular panoramic views of the region with two beautiful bays and fascinating formations of lava flows and spatter cones, including the iconic Pinnacle Rock. Later, take a snorkel and swim off the beach here—home to playful sea lions, Pacific green turtles, white tip reef sharks, and Galápagos penguins.(B,L,D)
Day 5: Mosquera Islet
Location: Mosquera Islet
Accommodation Name: Treasure of Galapagos
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Take a Guided Walk on the white coral beaches to the islands’ largest congregation of Galápagos sea lions. You’ll see a wide variety of shore birds reflecting the island’s amazing biodiversity—from the deep-gray lava gull to the yellow-crowned night heron.
Take a Naturalist-Led Excursion to see colonies of remarkable bird species, including blue-footed boobies, great frigate birds, and magnificent frigate birds—with its inflated red chest and nearly 7-foot wingspread. Watch for gulls and herons of all assortments.
NORTH SEYMOUR ISLAND Masterful Marine Iguanas and Birds of a Different ColorCLASSIC Take a Naturalist-Led Excursion to see colonies of remarkable bird species, including blue-footed boobies, great frigate birds, and magnificent frigate birds—with its inflated red chest and nearly 7-foot wingspread. Watch for gulls and herons of all assortments.ACTIVE Take a Guided Snorkeling Excursion in the aqua blue waters just off North Seymour Island’s shore—teeming with sea lions and amphibious marine iguanas—found only in the Galápagos.This afternoon, cruise for the sandy island of Mosquera Islet.MOSQUERA ISLETA Sea Lion Haven of White Coral Sand DISCOVERY Take a Guided Walk on the white coral beaches to the islands’ largest congregation of Galápagos sea lions. You’ll see a wide variety of shore birds reflecting the island’s amazing biodiversity—from the deep-gray lava gull to the yellow-crowned night heron.(B,L,D)
Day 6: San Cristobal Island
Location: San Cristobal Island
Accommodation Name: Treasure of Galapagos
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning, take a Naturalist-Led Excursion to South Plaza Island to observe wildlife, including sea lions, land iguanas, marine iguanas, and hybrid iguanas (only found on this island and a result of a cross between land and marine iguanas). You will see blue-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, frigate birds, swallow-tailed gulls, Audubon’s shearwaters, and many other species.
SOUTH PLAZA ISLAND Tracing Darwin’s Footsteps and Audubon’s MusesDISCOVERY This morning, take a Naturalist-Led Excursion to South Plaza Island to observe wildlife, including sea lions, land iguanas, marine iguanas, and hybrid iguanas (only found on this island and a result of a cross between land and marine iguanas). You will see blue-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, frigate birds, swallow-tailed gulls, Audubon’s shearwaters, and many other species.This afternoon, cruise to Cerro Brujo on San Cristobal Island.SAN CRISTOBAL ISLANDBlue Herons, Blue Lagoons, and a Sleeping LionACTIVE Take a Guided Walk at the site where Charles Darwin first visited the Galápagos. See the volcanic remains of magnificent Kicker Rock—also called León Dormido (Sleeping Lion). Walk beside one of the island’s blue lagoons to see a number of migratory birds, including pelicans and great blue herons.(B,L,D)
Day 7: Galápagos Islands (Disembarkation),San Cristobal,Quito
Location: San Cristobal
Accommodation Name: Swissotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, cruise to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno for a Naturalist Guided Tour of the San Cristobal Interpretation Center. You’ll learn about the Galápagos’ fascinating volcanic origins, remote location, climate, and the arrival of diverse species that inspire both imagination and science.
GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS (DISEMBARKATION)–SAN CRISTOBAL–QUITO The Geological Genesis of a Magical Archipelago DISCOVERY This morning, cruise to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno for a Naturalist Guided Tour of the San Cristobal Interpretation Center. You’ll learn about the Galápagos’ fascinating volcanic origins, remote location, climate, and the arrival of diverse species that inspire both imagination and science.This afternoon, you’ll say farewell to the magical islands of Galápagos and fly to Quito. This evening, spend free time relaxing or enjoy one of Quito’s many fine restaurants. (B)
Day 8: Quito
Location: Quito
Accommodation Name: Swissotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
QUITO Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
Ship Details
Treasure of Galapagos
Ship Overview
Exploring the Galápagos Islands on board the 9-suite Treasure of Galápagos goes beyond traditional cruising and allows you a truly intimate experience with a maximum of 16 guests. Chartered for Avalon guests, the Treasure of Galápagos features spacious suites with balconies and takes you around the archipelago to explore the natural wonders of this region in privacy and comfort. Completely refurbished recently, the Treasure of Galápagos is designed to surpass luxurious standards with an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere, allowing guests to enjoy all of the treasures of the Galápagos Islands! From penguins and flamingos sharing the same beach, ancient tortoises and iguanas that swim, colorful birdlife that forgot how to fly, and the diverse marine world teeming with life, these dramatic volcanic islands truly are "a laboratory of evolution." Delve into this unique world with the Treasure of Galápagos' crew and expert Naturalist, who share their passion for nature and conservation of this mysterious part of the world. Your Galápagos cruise includes Naturalist-guided shore excursions, lectures, and exploration of the marine reserve by strolling, hiking, and snorkeling. At day's end, you'll return to the relaxed luxury of your ship.
Please note: For the few rivers not sailed by Avalon Suite Ships®, we carefully select only the best river ships that meet our high standard of excellence in quality, comfort, and amenities. Avalon personally charters the Treasure of Galápagos to deliver the exceptional experience cruisers have come to expect from Avalon Waterways.
Ship Details
Ship Name:
Treasure of Galapagos
Adults Only Areas:
kids allowed
Ship Children Facilities:
none
Ship Nursery:
none
Smoking Areas:
some
Ship Size:
mini
Ship Style:
expedition
Ship Type:
ocean
Ship Currency:
USD
Ship Language:
es+en
Ship Capacity:
18
Ship Crew Count:
10
Number of Decks:
3
Number of Cabins:
9
Number of Large Cabins:
0
Number of Wheelchair-Friendy Cabins:
0
Ship Launch Year:
2009
Ship Refit Year:
2017
Ship Gross Tonnage:
343
Ship Length (Meters):
31.6 M
Ship Width (Meters):
11.2 M
Ship Speed (Knots):
12 Kn
Deck Plans
Main Deck
Dining AreaLoungeReception AreaCabinsSuite
Sun Deck
JacuzziBarShaded AreaSun Deck
Upper Deck
Shaded Outside DeckBridgeGuideCaptainCabins
Cabins
The Treasure of Galapagos has 8 spacious suites with balconies for a maximum of 16 guests. All suites are air-conditioned, and have private bathrooms, living space and balconies.
Master Suite (Grade M )
King size bedIn-room safeComplimentary waterIndividual climate controlTwice-daily housekeepingBedside tables with reading lightsPrivate bathroom with full shower, hairdryer & bath productsSmall table with two chairsCloset for storageTwo private balconiesPrivate living area with sofa bed
Suite (Grade J )
5 twin cabins with 2 single beds (cabins 2, 3, 4, 8, & 9)3 double cabins with 1 queen bed (cabins 5, 6 & 7)In-room safeComplimentary waterIndividual climate controlTwice-daily housekeepingBedside tables with reading lightsPrivate balconyPrivate bathroom with full shower, hairdryer & bath productsCloset for storage
Dining
Treasure of Galapagos cruises feature a buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner onboard, with menus that feature the very best international cuisine and celebrated Ecuadorian dishes. Guests will receive wine with dinner as well as 24-hour complimentary water, tea and coffee.
Dining Room
Treasure of Galapagos cruises feature a buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner onboard, with menus that feature the very best international cuisine and celebrated Ecuadorian dishes. Guests will receive wine with dinner as well as 24-hour complimentary water, tea and coffee. (complimentary)
Entertainment
Avalon Waterways want your experience with them to be as rich as possible and have included everything that they know will be important to your cruise enjoyment.
With so many amenities on board, whether you are making the most of happy hour by enjoying a glass of wine or a gin and tonic in the bar, or having a quiet moment in the Lounge with a cappuccino, there is plenty of space to stretch out and relax on an Avalon ship. Complimentary Wi-Fi access and free use of computers or laptops is available to help you stay in touch with friends and family. They've designed a cruise experience that includes all the right things...but still leaves room for your own preferences.
Lounge
The lounge is located on the Main Deck.
Sun Deck
The sun deck features a jacuzzi, a shaded area, premium lounge chairs and a bar.
Enrichment
Observation & Exploration
There is an observation area on board where you can watch for whales and dolphins, a reading room and Natural History Library, Expedition lectures given by the expert crew and multi-lingual Naturalist.Free use of snorkeling equipment is also available for those who wish to explore.
Stargazing Program
Look to the stars and see the galaxy as you have never before. In the complete beauty of the Galápagos Islands at night learn all about the constellations and witness the abundance of shooting stars.
Kids and Teens
Children aged 8 years and over are welcome on board the Treasure of Galapagos. A trip to the Galapagos is both fun and educational for children, who will enjoy the excitement of coming face to face with the local wildlife.
Health & Fitness
Cruise into total body wellness. Start your mornings with an exercise program in the Fitness Centre on the Boat Deck.
Fitness Centre
An exercise room located on the contains a bike, elliptical and treadmill.
Gratuities
Gratuities are included for your Cruise Director and Ship’s Crew only and does not include Local Hosts, Local Guides and drivers. For the Egyptian sailing please note that gratuities are not included for your Cruise Director, Ships Crew, Local Hosts, Local Guides or drivers.
Useful Information
Accessibility
Avalon Waterways makes reasonable attempts to accommodate the special needs of disabled and mobility impaired travellers but is not responsible in the event it is unable to do so. Because we cannot provide individual assistance to travellers in many situations, and most of our transportation services are not equipped with wheelchair ramps, we recommend that you view our terms and conditions for details and contact us to learn more.
Age Restrictions
Avalon Waterways do not accept bookings for children under 8. There are no special arrangements or activities on board for children and they cannot accept bookings from unaccompanied children under 18 years of age and any travellers under this age must share the adult’s accommodation.
Dietary Requirements
Avalon Waterways will try their best to accommodate dietary requirements if they are mentioned at the time of booking.
Disabled Facilities
Passengers must report any disability to Avalon before any reservation is made so that Avalon may advise whether they and/or their suppliers for any particular holiday are able to accommodate the passengers. Avalon may rely on the information provided to them by the passengers regarding the details of any disability in order to make a decision as to whether the passengers can be accommodated. Avalon will make reasonable attempts to accommodate the special needs of disabled passengers, in accordance with the applicable laws.Not all sightseeing stops/sites accommodate wheelchairs and some locations and sightseeing activities require extensive standing, sitting or walking. Avalon is not responsible for any missed activities due to a participant’s inability to participate within a group.All of the ships have lifts, however they do not service the SkyDeck. Additionally most stateroom doors and bathrooms are not wide enough to allow access by standard wheelchairs, and bathrooms and other doorways may be fitted with coamings.For safety reasons passengers cannot be carried on ramps in ports when the ship is docked. In certain circumstances, they may ask that a disabled person or person with reduced mobility be accompanied by another person capable of providing any assistance required.
Dress Code
Your comfort is our first concern. Onboard and onshore dress codes are casual. Please bring comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing. Dinner attire is casual—open-neck shirts and slacks for men; slacks, skirts, or dresses for ladies. Coats and ties may be worn if preferred. The Welcome and Farewell Dinners in Europe are dressy, but not formal. On the Mekong, Amazon, and Galápagos, dress attire, including coats and ties, is not recommended due to the warm, humid climate.
Economic Initiatives
Tourism cares, Traveller iconsOur passion for showing you the world is only matched by our dedication to help preserve both historic treasures° and natural resources to be enjoyed for generations to come. That's why we partner with Tourism Cares, a non-profit initiative that focuses funding of "Traveler Icons" of North and South America.Rural AidAustralia is not only home to some of the world's most unique wildlife, but its vast and varied landscapes makes it one of the most interesting places on Earth. That is why we are dedicated to helping support Rural Aid, which focuses on providing assistance to farmers and rural communities in times of natural disaster° as well as supporting the sustainability of the agricultural community.
Environment
The right kind of FootprintsWith the philoshophy “take memories; leave only footprints”, we strive to protect and preserve each extraordinary destination for its people, wildlife, and future travelers by finding meaningful ways to reduce our environmental footprint. New! The Ocean CleanupNature's beauty is a gift to travelers and it is our commitment to preserve the precious environment around us. When you use disposable° plastic products like straws and utensils, they can wind up in our rivers and oceans forever. The Globus family of brands is proud to partner with The Ocean Cleanup in an effort to remove and reduce the presence of plastics in our oceans.Eliminating plastic useWe have taken great measures to make a positive impact on our guests while also reducing our own impact on the environment. Taking sustainability to greater depths, we are committed to removing° single-use plastic products—from straws to disposable water bottles on our motor coaches and ships by 2020
Internet Access
Wi-Fi is not available in the Galápagos.
Smoking Policy
All ships have non-smoking interiors. Smoking is permitted only in a designated outdoor area of each ship.
Social Initiative
MAKE-A-WISHBringing families together to experience some of the world's most remarkable destinations is what we do best. Globus family of brands is committed to supporting our local communities and is honored to partner with the Make-A-Wish Foundation to offer trips to children and their families facing life-threatening illnesses.Landmine DesignOur partnership with Landmine Design, a social enterprise committed to educate and provide jobs for women living in poverty in Cambodia, has provided dozens of women with the opportunity to work at home with their children and avoid the dangers of traveling to neighboring cities for work. By hand rolling paper beads and crafting them into beautiful jewelry, we are creating hope where there once was despair.Childsafe networkWe are committed to improving the lives of the individuals° who call our travel destinations home. As a partner of the Childsafe Network, we help raise awareness, provide education, training, employment, and shelter for children and their families who otherwise live on the streets, including the Kaliyan Mith program in Siem Reap, Cambodia.Wildland Firefighter FoundationFor over three decades, we have introduced travelers to the beauty of America's national parks. We are proud to recognize and honor the brave firefighters who risk their lives to help protect our private and public lands from fire. Each year, we contribute to the Wildland Firefighter Foundation, which provides immediate financial and crisis assistance to families of injured or fallen wildland firefighters.Wildlife Conservation NetworkWhen you travel with us, you are securing the future of the world's wildlife! By partnering with Wildlife Conservation Network, Globus helps to support a world network of leading conservationists with the most effective solutions° to saving our planet's wildlife—with every dollar translating into tangible, lasting impact on endangered wildlife and the long-term protection of 87 species in crisis across 38 countries.South African National Parks Honorary RangersEducation is critical to preserving protected lands and its inhabitants. That is why we make a contribution to the South African National Parks Honorary Rangers, who work tirelessly to protect and preserve South African National Parks. This includes the Lion Recovery Fund, which provides education to protect African Lion habitats and populations by preventing poaching and promoting co-existence for local farmers and communities.Globus gives backEvery year, Globus family of brands gives back to each° of our local office communities. Every year, on Earth Day, we come together to help restore trails at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater to preserve the beauty° of our state parks for future generations.UNICEFEvery child deserves to grow up in a safe and inclusive environment. That is why we are proud to support UNICEF in their efforts to help all children – especially the most disadvantaged and marginalized – to lead safe, healthy lives and realize their full potential.
Sustainable Travel
Avalon is committed to minimizing its impact on the environment and to reducing its dependence on non-renewable resources. In this endeavor, we have implemented policies to support this mission and are working carefully to enhance our products with this mission and our values combined. We are committed to complying with all relevant legislation and/or regulations.Avalon maintains a policy of "Leave Only Footprints and Take Only Photos." Our staff and major service providers strive to ensure that no removal of any natural or cultural artifacts or materials occurs to ensure each environment looks and functions the same before and after our visit. Our cruise directors educate passengers on our "do no harm" code of conduct to ensure passenger compliance.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Accommodation in a suite or stateroom of your choice is included.
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Meals
Full board with breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily in our panoramic restaurant is included.
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All gratuities
All gratuities are included.
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Avalon Adventure Host
An Avalon Adventure Host is available as your guide for fitness activities and active excursions.
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Avalon Choice®
Avalon Choice® with your preference of Classic, Active, or Discovery included excursions and sightseeing with Certified Local Guides; and MyAvalonSM Guided Optional Excursions are included.
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Club lounge
Access to a club lounge with a 24-hour self-serve beverage station and sweet treats is included.
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Complimentary beverages
Complimentary sparkling wine with breakfast; wine, beer, or soft drinks with lunch and dinner are included daily on board.
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Daily Happy Hour and Afternoon Tea
Daily Complimentary Happy Hour and Daily Afternoon Tea are included.
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Expert Cruise Director
An Expert Cruise Director is included.
What's Not Included
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Airport Transfers at Destination
Airport transfers at the destination are not included.
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International Travel
International travel is not included.
Notes
Maximum elevation on this tour is 9,200 ft. In the Galápagos, there will be “wet landings” meaning guests will need to be able to jump in the water, out of the boats/zodiacs and walk a couple of meters to the beaches. Terrain is rocky and uneven. Itinerary in the Galápagos are subject to change.
Accommodation
In Quito, enjoy a stay at the Swissotel, offering comfortable accommodations to enhance your travel experience.
Rivers
Galapagos Islands
Mode of Transport
The tour includes flights to the Galápagos Islands and a five-day cruise aboard the Treasure of Galápagos, with naturalist-guided excursions and snorkeling activities.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on the Galápagos Islands tour?
During the Galápagos Islands tour, you can expect to see a variety of wildlife including giant tortoises at the Charles Darwin Research Station, lava lizards, marine iguanas, Sally Lightfoot crabs, Galápagos penguins, sea lions, blue-footed boobies, great frigate birds, Nazca boobies, and many other bird species.
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Are there any special activities included in the Galápagos Islands cruise?
Yes, the cruise includes naturalist-guided walks, snorkeling excursions, and a guided hike to Bartolomé Island's summit for panoramic views. You will also have opportunities to snorkel and swim with sea lions, Pacific green turtles, and white tip reef sharks.
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What is the significance of the Charles Darwin Research Station visit?
The visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island is significant as it is dedicated to conserving the Galápagos' natural habitat and protecting the famous giant tortoises. You will learn about the tortoise-rearing program and see various tortoises from the islands.
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What should I know about the landings during the Galápagos cruise?
In the Galápagos, there will be 'wet landings,' meaning guests will need to be able to jump in the water from the boats/zodiacs and walk a couple of meters to the beaches. The terrain is rocky and uneven.
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What is the maximum elevation reached during this tour?
The maximum elevation reached during this tour is 9,200 feet.
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Cuisine
All meals on board are prepared by accomplished chefs who prepare regional specialties as well as familiar favorites with only the freshest, local ingredients. Our Suite Ships® feature daily buffet-style breakfast and lunch with your choice of soups, main courses with starter, salad, or sandwich, and, of course, dessert. Complimentary room service is also available with Continental breakfast, lunch, and dinner. On the Mekong and Ganges, a mix of Western and local dishes is offered; in the Galápagos, you'll be able to taste some Ecuadorian specialties; and in the Amazon, you will be able to sample Peruvian specialties along with Western dishes.
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Cruise Director
A professional, experienced, English-speaking Cruise Director accompanies every departure. Naturalists are on board in the Amazon and Galápagos. Special Interest cruises typically include an expert specific to the cruise theme—from Wine Masters to History Experts.
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What about young travellers and children?
In our many years of cruising experience, we have found that children under the age of eight typically are too young to fully enjoy a cruise vacation. Because of this and for the safety and enjoyment of all passengers, we do not accept children under eight years of age. In addition, please note that there are no special arrangements or activities for children on our ships.
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What are single room supplements?
For single travellers who prefer the privacy of their own room and stateroom, single accommodation can, of course, be requested.
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Clothing & Dress Code
Your comfort is our first concern. Onboard and onshore dress codes are casual. Please bring comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing. Dinner attire is casual—open-neck shirts and slacks for men; slacks, skirts, or dresses for ladies. Coats and ties may be worn if preferred. The Welcome and Farewell Dinners in Europe are dressy, but not formal. On the Mekong, Ganges, Amazon, and Galápagos, dress attire, including coats and ties, is not recommended due to the warm, humid climate.
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When will I receive my digital travel documents?
Avalon will email you a set of travel documents, which includes a copy of your itinerary and, where applicable, information on your hotels and optional excursions. Electronic Travel documents, including applicable eTicket receipts, itineraries, and other information are sent approximately 2-3 weeks prior to departure, provided full payment has been received.
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Where can I find the docking location for my cruise ship?
Avalon Waterways strives to bring you the best docking locations along Europe’s rivers. In many cities, this includes multiple docking sites. Docking positions at each port are assigned by local authorities, and may vary depending upon the number of ships in port on any given day. This can sometimes result in double-docking with more than one ship assigned to the same dock and the ships “rafted” together, temporarily obstructing some views from on board the ships. Exact docking locations will be available 24-72 hours prior to embarkation. Before your cruise’s docking location is available, you can download a map of all possible docking sites for your embarkation city at www.AvalonWaterwaysPorts.com. Once your ship’s docking assignment is available, you can download a map that shows only that specific location, including address.
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Are Avalon River Cruises Handicap Accessible?
Avalon Waterways makes reasonable attempts to accommodate the special needs of disabled and mobility impaired travellers but is not responsible in the event it is unable to do so. Because we cannot provide individual assistance to travellers in many situations, and most of our transportation services are not equipped with wheelchair ramps, we recommend that you view our terms and conditions for details or contact us to learn more.
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Internet Access
All Avalon ships in Europe have complimentary Wi-Fi available. On the Mekong and Ganges, complimentary Wi-Fi access is available in the Panorama Lounge. The signal is not always reliable, as you will be cruising through remote areas. To access the ship's Wi-Fi Internet network, you will be given a PIN number at reception to use on your laptop, tablet, or mobile device. Wi-Fi is not available in the Amazon or Galápagos.
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Onboard Language
The language on board is English. All staff, crew, and tour guides speak English. All announcements and commentary will be in English.
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Low Deposit
Avalon Waterways requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of avalon waterways charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 35% of booking price.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.