Galapagos Islands
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, the Galapagos Islands are another-worldly spectacle - a kaleidoscope of intertwining colors of flora and fauna, landscape, sea and sky. Inspiring Charles Darwin's theory of evolution in 1835, this "living museum and showcase of evolution" features an extraordinary diversity of natural environments. It is the ideal location for any nature lover as its unique array of endemic species continues to thrive in this isolated archipelago.
The 13 main and 6 smaller islands in the archipelago are spread out across nearly 20,000 square miles of the Pacific Ocean. They are characterized by a rough volcanic landscape that is home to an unfathomable variety of wildlife including marine birds, albatrosses, penguins, boobies, turtles, giant tortoises, iguanas, sea lions, whales and dolphins. Experience the greatest diversity of living creatures on the planet and discover why Charles Darwin began his ground-breaking theory of evolution here. In addition to hiking, biking, and kayaking, experience the best snorkeling and reef diving of your life. Swim with tropical reef fish, penguins, sharks, and float eye-to-eye with marine birds.
All this is possible in the Galapagos Islands, the Mecca for nature enthusiasts. The Galapagos archipelago is one of the most significant natural wonders on Earth, and a "must-see" place in a lifetime.
Please note that the following itinerary is an example, as all of our journeys are custom-made.
Quito (2 nights)
Upon arrival in Quito, you will be greeted by your personal host and transferred to a luxury boutique hotel in the historical center of Quito, Casa Gangotena. With your expert guide, discover the colonial treasures of Ecuador's capital, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, nicknamed "the Florence of South America" for the artistic traditions of the colonial period. Visit Quito's most picturesque churches and indulge in gourmet meals in Quito's finest restaurants. Blue Parallel will provide you with exclusive, insider access to La Compania de Jesus in the evening, a Jesuit church constructed in a Latin American Baroque style, known for its breathtaking interiors and 360º views of the city from its rooftop.
The Galapagos Islands (4 - 7 nights)
Fly to the Galapagos Islands. Upon arrival, you will be met by a host and be transferred by vehicle and zodiac to your yacht, cruise ship, hotel or luxury villa. Each day will offer the opportunity to observe up close the amazing fauna and flora that inhabit these islands - you will walk, hike, swim, snorkel or scuba dive among giant tortoises, marine and land iguanas, sea lions, red and blue-footed boobies, turtles and penguins. Please note that Blue Parallel will be happy to organize a private aerial sightseeing tour over the Galapagos Islands at the end of your journey should you be interested in having a complementary bird's eye perspective of the National Park.
Sea Based: Private Charter
One of the best ways to experience the Galapagos Islands is on board your own private motor yacht, accompanied by an expert crew. Our on-board naturalist guides will accompany your explorations, and customize the level of activity according to your profile. The trip is designed to cater exclusively to your interests and those of your companions. Blue Parallel will staff the yacht according to the requirements of your group. Take some of your closest family members, friends or business associates for the experience of a lifetime in the Galapagos.
Sea Based: Non Private Cruise
If you are traveling as a couple or small group, we would recommend experiencing the Galapagos Islands on one of our preferred cruises, staying in select cabins which we have personally vetted. Depending on your interests and profile, we will be able to pair you up with the ideal cruise experience for your party. The boats, which range from small to large occupancies, have been handpicked for our clients and are fitted with stabilizers, which will minimize the effects of sea-sickness. The boats feature beautiful interiors, observation decks with lounge chairs, delicious cuisine, hot-tubs, and spacious cabins. You will explore different islands and bays on a daily basis with expert bilingual naturalist guides. Activities include hiking, swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and more.
Land Based Options
For those who prefer the comfort of staying on land during their exploration of these islands, Blue Parallel can create custom-made programs that involve the islands of Santa Cruz and Isabela, using a private plane between both islands. Starting on Santa Cruz Island, stay at the recently inaugurated Pikaia Lodge or at a private ocean front villa with its own boat and modern amenities. Go on daily excursions with your naturalist guide to discover nearby islands on a high-end boat and to visit the highlights of Santa Cruz Island. You can hike, snorkel with sea lions, visit a penguin colony or relax on beautiful secluded beaches, to name a few. In the evenings, enjoy a water front barbeque; indulge in a massage or simply relax in the outdoor swimming pool. Following your stay on Santa Cruz Island, take a private plane over the archipelago to Isabela Island where you can stay at Iguana Crossing, a beach front property on this incredible island, and experience a multitude of activities and excursions to nearby islands and bays on your private boat.
Recommended Extensions
Ecuador
- Spend 2 nights before or after your trip in a traditional hacienda in the Andean Highlands to experience Ecuador's highland culture and its breathtaking natural beauty.
- The Amazon Basin, home to the world's remaining rainforest and unparalleled diversity.
Peru
- Discover the Incan civilization on a memorable journey to Machu Picchu. Visit the colonial treasures of Cusco, the archeological ruins of the Sacred Valley, and explore the fascinating Machu Picchu ruins on different hikes.
Colombia
- Experience the myriad climates, people and cultures, from coastal Caribbean to the terraced green slopes of the Andes Mountains in Colombia. Whether horseback riding through coffee plantations, hiking through cloud and pine forests, or snorkeling in dazzling crystal clear waters, Colombia offers an array of unforgettable moments.
The Discovery
- Quito
- Galapagos Islands
The Adventure
- Sailing
- Hiking
- Kayaking
- Snorkeling
- Scuba Diving
- Swimming
Insider Access
- Exclusive access to one of Quito's most picturesque colonial churches at night
- Private diving team can be brought to your cruise or charter boat for a diving excursion
- Private villa with gourmet meals and a dedicated staff
- Private yacht exclusively staffed with a chef, a masseuse, and nanny, depending on your needs
- Private aerial sightseeing tour over the Galapagos Islands
- And much more...
CALL: +1-301-263-6670
info@blueparallel.com
- Best Time to Go
- Recommended Stay
- Price Reference
- Year-round
- 6-11 days
- Please Contact Us
Note: Prices per passenger will vary based on the specifics of the itinerary and the number of passengers in your party.
Booking Procedures:
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