Guayaquil
Guayaquil 12/20/2024
Arrive in Guayaquil; it's a short drive to Hilton Colon hotel, where we spend the night.,
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
-
Ride Like a Local - 4 hours
One of the best ways to truly get to know a city is by using its public transportation systems. Be it buses, trains, subways or airways, they all give a real taste of what it really is to live in a specific city. Today you are welcome to be part of the experience of the locals and admire Guayaquil from above onboard the recently inaugurated Guayaquil Airway, an environmentally friendly project that seeks to reduce the emission of carbon dioxide into the air.
You will be picked up from the port and driven onboard the coach towards Parque Centenario Station where you will take the airway and, along with your guide board one of the cabins and go all the way through the Guayas River in a 20 minutes ride towards the station of Daule, where we will disembark and take the ride back to Guayaquil where you will debark at Four Mosqueteros station.
Adding the final touch to this exciting half-day visit the Anthropological and Contemporary Art Museum of Guayaquil (MAAC) that has an area of more than 9000 square feet. The museum is a pleasant surprise, not only because of its display of modern art, but because of the size and extent of its archeological collection. The MAAC is a great way to see more of Ecuador’s culture and history – and spend some time out of the sun.
At the end, board the bus and drive back to the quayside.
DURATION
4 Hours
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Easy (Limited Walking – under 500 meters over flat terrain with some steps)
WHAT’S INCLUDED?
- Touring in luxury private vehicles with A/C & PA-system
- Airway entrance fee (roundtrip)
- 1 Bottle of water per person
- Local English-speaking tour guide
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED?
- Any other services not mentioned above.
IMPORTANT NOTES, OBSERVATIONS & RECOMMENDATIONS
- This tour is not suitable for guests in wheelchairs or those with mobility issues.
- Few vendors accept credit cards; we recommend that guests bring cash (USD) if they wish to purchase anything. In Ecuador $50 or $100 notes are not easily accepted, so guests should try to bring small change. Travelers’ checks are not accepted.
- All timings are approximate and subject to change.
- It is recommended guests wear lightweight clothing, including long pants and a long-sleeved shirt, along with sunblock, sunglasses, a hat, insect repellent (it is a must) and flat, comfortable walking shoes and a camera.
-
Cerro Blanco Wildlife and Forest Trail - 4.5 hours
Introducing the "Cerro Blanco Wildlife and Forest Trail" - a tour of the largest and best-preserved dry forest in Ecuador. Explore the protected forest, located in the extreme Southwest of the Chongón Colonche mountain range, just outside the city. This adventure departs early in the morning and takes you on a 1.2 km trail, showcasing the breathtaking biodiversity of the area, the trail is called “Canoa”
The Cerro Blanco Protected Forest boasts an impressive number of endemic vascular plants, which protect approximately 100 of the 500 species registered in the tropical dry forest region. If we are lucky, you'll discover the magnificent range of wildlife that includes 54 species of mammals, such as monkeys, peccaries, agouti, 6 species of wild cats, including the majestic Jaguar, and 34 species of bats. Bird lovers will have the opportunity to spot a few of the 221 species of birds registered in the area that includes the endangered Great Green Macaw (Papagayo), which is the symbol of Cerro Blanco. Not to mention the 8 species of amphibians and 12 species of reptiles. It is important to note wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.
During your walk along the trail, you will experience a variety of landscapes, including the forest and mangrove. The route is divided into two sections. The first section is a mountainous terrain, where you will find small slopes, rocky paths, and a native vegetation of the dry forest. This part of the trail offers the perfect vantage points to take in the stunning scenery. The second section is a second-growth forest, where you can appreciate the beauty of the forest and its natural regrowth.
After returning from the hike, a delicious picnic will be waiting for us to refresh and recover energy before heading back to the pier.
SUGGESTED TOUR TIMINGS
| TIMING |
ITINERARY & POINTS OF INTEREST |
TERRAIN |
W/C FRIENDLY |
| 00:00 – 00:45 |
Depart the quayside and drive to Cerro Blanco |
Paved |
This tour is NOT suitable for guests in wheelchairs; and those with mobility issues, however, they must be able to board the coach on their own |
| 00:45 – 02:45 |
Walk around the Canoa Trail |
Uneven, slippery, muddy |
| 02:45 – 03:45 |
Deluxe Picnic |
Flat |
| 03:45 – 04:30 |
Drive back to the pier for embarkation |
Paved |
|
DURATION / MIN/MAX NO. OF PAX
4 ½ Hours
MIN 10 guests per departure
MAX 90 guests per departure
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Strenuous (walking over 1 km over uneven terrain with many steps)
WHAT’S INCLUDED?
- Touring in luxury private vehicles with A/C & PA-system
- 1 Bottle of water per person
- Local English-speaking tour guide
- Deluxe Picnin
- 1 ship’s escort free of charge per vehicle
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED?
- Any other services not mentioned above.
IMPORTANT NOTES, OBSERVATIONS & RECOMMENDATIONS
- This tour is NOT suitable for guests in wheelchairs or those with mobility issues.
- Few vendors accept credit cards; we recommend that guests bring cash (USD) if they wish to purchase anything. In Ecuador $50 or $100 notes are not easily accepted, so guests should try to bring small change. Travelers’ checks are not accepted.
- All timings are approximate and subject to change.
- It is recommended guests wear lightweight clothing, including long pants and a long-sleeved shirt, along with sunblock, sunglasses, a hat, insect repellent (it is a must) and flat, comfortable walking shoes and a camera.
|
12/20/2024 |
12/20/2024 |
Guayaquil
Guayaquil 12/21/2024
After the 1 1/2-hour flight to the Galápagos, we’ll immediately board the ship. Over the course of the week, our exact routing depends on the National Park Service.(B,L,D),
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
-
Ride Like a Local - 4 hours
One of the best ways to truly get to know a city is by using its public transportation systems. Be it buses, trains, subways or airways, they all give a real taste of what it really is to live in a specific city. Today you are welcome to be part of the experience of the locals and admire Guayaquil from above onboard the recently inaugurated Guayaquil Airway, an environmentally friendly project that seeks to reduce the emission of carbon dioxide into the air.
You will be picked up from the port and driven onboard the coach towards Parque Centenario Station where you will take the airway and, along with your guide board one of the cabins and go all the way through the Guayas River in a 20 minutes ride towards the station of Daule, where we will disembark and take the ride back to Guayaquil where you will debark at Four Mosqueteros station.
Adding the final touch to this exciting half-day visit the Anthropological and Contemporary Art Museum of Guayaquil (MAAC) that has an area of more than 9000 square feet. The museum is a pleasant surprise, not only because of its display of modern art, but because of the size and extent of its archeological collection. The MAAC is a great way to see more of Ecuador’s culture and history – and spend some time out of the sun.
At the end, board the bus and drive back to the quayside.
DURATION
4 Hours
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Easy (Limited Walking – under 500 meters over flat terrain with some steps)
WHAT’S INCLUDED?
- Touring in luxury private vehicles with A/C & PA-system
- Airway entrance fee (roundtrip)
- 1 Bottle of water per person
- Local English-speaking tour guide
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED?
- Any other services not mentioned above.
IMPORTANT NOTES, OBSERVATIONS & RECOMMENDATIONS
- This tour is not suitable for guests in wheelchairs or those with mobility issues.
- Few vendors accept credit cards; we recommend that guests bring cash (USD) if they wish to purchase anything. In Ecuador $50 or $100 notes are not easily accepted, so guests should try to bring small change. Travelers’ checks are not accepted.
- All timings are approximate and subject to change.
- It is recommended guests wear lightweight clothing, including long pants and a long-sleeved shirt, along with sunblock, sunglasses, a hat, insect repellent (it is a must) and flat, comfortable walking shoes and a camera.
-
Cerro Blanco Wildlife and Forest Trail - 4.5 hours
Introducing the "Cerro Blanco Wildlife and Forest Trail" - a tour of the largest and best-preserved dry forest in Ecuador. Explore the protected forest, located in the extreme Southwest of the Chongón Colonche mountain range, just outside the city. This adventure departs early in the morning and takes you on a 1.2 km trail, showcasing the breathtaking biodiversity of the area, the trail is called “Canoa”
The Cerro Blanco Protected Forest boasts an impressive number of endemic vascular plants, which protect approximately 100 of the 500 species registered in the tropical dry forest region. If we are lucky, you'll discover the magnificent range of wildlife that includes 54 species of mammals, such as monkeys, peccaries, agouti, 6 species of wild cats, including the majestic Jaguar, and 34 species of bats. Bird lovers will have the opportunity to spot a few of the 221 species of birds registered in the area that includes the endangered Great Green Macaw (Papagayo), which is the symbol of Cerro Blanco. Not to mention the 8 species of amphibians and 12 species of reptiles. It is important to note wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.
During your walk along the trail, you will experience a variety of landscapes, including the forest and mangrove. The route is divided into two sections. The first section is a mountainous terrain, where you will find small slopes, rocky paths, and a native vegetation of the dry forest. This part of the trail offers the perfect vantage points to take in the stunning scenery. The second section is a second-growth forest, where you can appreciate the beauty of the forest and its natural regrowth.
After returning from the hike, a delicious picnic will be waiting for us to refresh and recover energy before heading back to the pier.
SUGGESTED TOUR TIMINGS
| TIMING |
ITINERARY & POINTS OF INTEREST |
TERRAIN |
W/C FRIENDLY |
| 00:00 – 00:45 |
Depart the quayside and drive to Cerro Blanco |
Paved |
This tour is NOT suitable for guests in wheelchairs; and those with mobility issues, however, they must be able to board the coach on their own |
| 00:45 – 02:45 |
Walk around the Canoa Trail |
Uneven, slippery, muddy |
| 02:45 – 03:45 |
Deluxe Picnic |
Flat |
| 03:45 – 04:30 |
Drive back to the pier for embarkation |
Paved |
|
DURATION / MIN/MAX NO. OF PAX
4 ½ Hours
MIN 10 guests per departure
MAX 90 guests per departure
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Strenuous (walking over 1 km over uneven terrain with many steps)
WHAT’S INCLUDED?
- Touring in luxury private vehicles with A/C & PA-system
- 1 Bottle of water per person
- Local English-speaking tour guide
- Deluxe Picnin
- 1 ship’s escort free of charge per vehicle
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED?
- Any other services not mentioned above.
IMPORTANT NOTES, OBSERVATIONS & RECOMMENDATIONS
- This tour is NOT suitable for guests in wheelchairs or those with mobility issues.
- Few vendors accept credit cards; we recommend that guests bring cash (USD) if they wish to purchase anything. In Ecuador $50 or $100 notes are not easily accepted, so guests should try to bring small change. Travelers’ checks are not accepted.
- All timings are approximate and subject to change.
- It is recommended guests wear lightweight clothing, including long pants and a long-sleeved shirt, along with sunblock, sunglasses, a hat, insect repellent (it is a must) and flat, comfortable walking shoes and a camera.
|
12/21/2024 |
12/21/2024 |
Air Travel
Air Travel 12/21/2024
After the 1 1/2-hour flight to the Galápagos, we’ll immediately board the ship. Over the course of the week, our exact routing depends on the National Park Service.(B,L,D),
|
12/21/2024 |
12/21/2024 |
Cruise Starts (Embarkation)
Cruise Starts (Embarkation) 12/21/2024
After the 1 1/2-hour flight to the Galápagos, we’ll immediately board the ship. Over the course of the week, our exact routing depends on the National Park Service.(B,L,D),
|
12/21/2024 |
12/21/2024 |
Galapagos Islands
Galapagos Islands 12/22/2024
The following is a representative sample of the islands we may visit during your week onboard: Bartolomé: This is an enchanting landscape where lava, mangroves, and golden sand converge. Great walks and views abound, with a chance to snorkel with Galápagos penguins. Santiago: Santiago offers close encounters with Galápagos fur seals along with an opportunity to study the inhabitants of the island's countless tide pools. Santa Cruz: Home to the Charles Darwin Research station; learn about the science done here and visit the neighboring captive breeding program for endangered species of Galápagos giant tortoises run by their partners in conservation, the Galápagos National Park Service. Isabela: A small black sand beach offers wonderful morning swimming. Enjoy a more challenging hike over rugged shoreline and a shorter walk within an iguana colony. Kayaking and deep water snorkeling opportunities are on offer. Fernandina: This is the youngest island in the Galápagos and one of the most pristine tropical islands left on earth. Look forward to hikes over relatively recent lava flows, and spot marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, and Sally Lightfoot crabs. Floreana: Snorkel among sea lions in the clear waters off Champion Islet. We may also find flamingos, pintail ducks, and various shorebirds. Hike to a pristine white-sand beach, a favorite nesting site for sea turtles. Española: The exclusive home to waved albatross (seasonal) and particularly colorful marine iguanas, Española is also a paradise for Darwin's finches, sea lions galore, and the famous blue-footed boobies. Snorkel and stroll along the island's lovely beaches. (B,L,D Daily),
|
12/22/2024 |
12/26/2024 |
Galapagos Islands
Galapagos Islands 12/27/2024
Listed below is a sample of islands we may visit during our expedition. All ship itineraries are subject to Galápagos National Park regulations. (B,L,D Daily); North Seymour: Follow coastal trails past playful Galápagos sea lions on this wildlife-rich central island. Continue inland through a silvery forest of endemic palo santo trees, where frigatebirds nest, blue-footed boobies dance, and where we may also encounter prehistoric-looking land iguanas feeding on cactus. Isabela: Cross the Equator at Volcán Ecuador, northernmost of Isabela's six great shield volcanoes. Keep an eye open for whales and dolphins, sea turtles, and the elusive ocean sunfish. Over two days, land in the footsteps of Darwin and Melville, and look for wildlife along the wildly eroded volcanic shore. Fernandina: One of the most active oceanic volcanoes in the world, Fernandina is the youngest and most pristine island in Galápagos—and home to the strange flightless cormorant, Galápagos penguins, and the largest marine iguanas. Hikes ashore lead across impressive recent lava flows. Española: See swallow-tailed gulls, Española mockingbirds, Nazca boobies and, seasonally, the world's only population of waved albatross at this birdy paradise, also home to vividly colored marine iguanas. Watch sea lions on the wide sand beach, and snorkel offshore, at Gardner Bay. Floreana: Follow a trail past a rose pink-tinted lagoon frequented by flamingos. Snorkel among sea lions and abundant fish, or cruise along Champion Islet by Zodiac. Visit the famous barrel at Post Office Bay. Santa Cruz: Visit Puerto Ayora, the largest town and headquarters of both the Galápagos National Park and Charles Darwin Research Station. See the monument to Lonesome George, and tour the giant tortoise breeding corrals. See the giant tortoises roaming in the wild in the lush, green highlands. Bartolomé: Climb the steps to the summit of this 300-foot volcanic wonderland for stunning views. Explore, swim, and snorkel from the beach. You might even see Galápagos penguins, one of world's rarest. Santiago: Explore tide pools and look for fur seals sheltered in quiet grottos of black basalt. Swim, snorkel, kayak, and paddleboard along Santiago's spectacular coast, and explore an enchanting coastal forest where Charles Darwin once walked. Genovesa: Sail across the Equator to the remote northern realm of the Galápagos, surrounded by warmer tropical waters. San Cristóbal: Search for red-footed boobies and the endemic mockingbird and lava lizard—found only on this easternmost island, and dig your toes into the powdery white sand at a gorgeous beach fronted by iconic Kicker Rock. Explore Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, where sea lions thrive in the middle of town.,
|
12/27/2024 |
12/27/2024 |
Galapagos Islands
Galapagos Islands 12/28/2024
Return this morning to Guayaquil, where we transfer to our hotel. The late afternoon and evening are free to explore the city. Overnight at the Hotel Oro Verde. Ask your expedition specialist about Peru, Quito, and other post-voyage options. (B), Return this morning to Guayaquil, where we transfer to our hotel. The late afternoon and evening are free to explore the city. Overnight at the Hotel Oro Verde. Ask your expedition specialist about Peru, Quito, and other post-voyage options. (B),
|
12/28/2024 |
12/28/2024 |
Cruise Ends (Debarkation)
Cruise Ends (Debarkation) 12/28/2024
Disembark and fly to Guayaquil. The late afternoon and evening are free to explore the city. Overnight at the Hotel Hilton Colón. (B),
|
12/28/2024 |
12/28/2024 |
Air Travel
Air Travel 12/28/2024
Disembark and fly to Guayaquil. The late afternoon and evening are free to explore the city. Overnight at the Hotel Hilton Colón. (B),
|
12/28/2024 |
12/28/2024 |
Guayaquil
Guayaquil 12/28/2024
Disembark and fly to Guayaquil. The late afternoon and evening are free to explore the city. Overnight at the Hotel Hilton Colón. (B),
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
-
Ride Like a Local - 4 hours
One of the best ways to truly get to know a city is by using its public transportation systems. Be it buses, trains, subways or airways, they all give a real taste of what it really is to live in a specific city. Today you are welcome to be part of the experience of the locals and admire Guayaquil from above onboard the recently inaugurated Guayaquil Airway, an environmentally friendly project that seeks to reduce the emission of carbon dioxide into the air.
You will be picked up from the port and driven onboard the coach towards Parque Centenario Station where you will take the airway and, along with your guide board one of the cabins and go all the way through the Guayas River in a 20 minutes ride towards the station of Daule, where we will disembark and take the ride back to Guayaquil where you will debark at Four Mosqueteros station.
Adding the final touch to this exciting half-day visit the Anthropological and Contemporary Art Museum of Guayaquil (MAAC) that has an area of more than 9000 square feet. The museum is a pleasant surprise, not only because of its display of modern art, but because of the size and extent of its archeological collection. The MAAC is a great way to see more of Ecuador’s culture and history – and spend some time out of the sun.
At the end, board the bus and drive back to the quayside.
DURATION
4 Hours
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Easy (Limited Walking – under 500 meters over flat terrain with some steps)
WHAT’S INCLUDED?
- Touring in luxury private vehicles with A/C & PA-system
- Airway entrance fee (roundtrip)
- 1 Bottle of water per person
- Local English-speaking tour guide
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED?
- Any other services not mentioned above.
IMPORTANT NOTES, OBSERVATIONS & RECOMMENDATIONS
- This tour is not suitable for guests in wheelchairs or those with mobility issues.
- Few vendors accept credit cards; we recommend that guests bring cash (USD) if they wish to purchase anything. In Ecuador $50 or $100 notes are not easily accepted, so guests should try to bring small change. Travelers’ checks are not accepted.
- All timings are approximate and subject to change.
- It is recommended guests wear lightweight clothing, including long pants and a long-sleeved shirt, along with sunblock, sunglasses, a hat, insect repellent (it is a must) and flat, comfortable walking shoes and a camera.
-
Cerro Blanco Wildlife and Forest Trail - 4.5 hours
Introducing the "Cerro Blanco Wildlife and Forest Trail" - a tour of the largest and best-preserved dry forest in Ecuador. Explore the protected forest, located in the extreme Southwest of the Chongón Colonche mountain range, just outside the city. This adventure departs early in the morning and takes you on a 1.2 km trail, showcasing the breathtaking biodiversity of the area, the trail is called “Canoa”
The Cerro Blanco Protected Forest boasts an impressive number of endemic vascular plants, which protect approximately 100 of the 500 species registered in the tropical dry forest region. If we are lucky, you'll discover the magnificent range of wildlife that includes 54 species of mammals, such as monkeys, peccaries, agouti, 6 species of wild cats, including the majestic Jaguar, and 34 species of bats. Bird lovers will have the opportunity to spot a few of the 221 species of birds registered in the area that includes the endangered Great Green Macaw (Papagayo), which is the symbol of Cerro Blanco. Not to mention the 8 species of amphibians and 12 species of reptiles. It is important to note wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.
During your walk along the trail, you will experience a variety of landscapes, including the forest and mangrove. The route is divided into two sections. The first section is a mountainous terrain, where you will find small slopes, rocky paths, and a native vegetation of the dry forest. This part of the trail offers the perfect vantage points to take in the stunning scenery. The second section is a second-growth forest, where you can appreciate the beauty of the forest and its natural regrowth.
After returning from the hike, a delicious picnic will be waiting for us to refresh and recover energy before heading back to the pier.
SUGGESTED TOUR TIMINGS
| TIMING |
ITINERARY & POINTS OF INTEREST |
TERRAIN |
W/C FRIENDLY |
| 00:00 – 00:45 |
Depart the quayside and drive to Cerro Blanco |
Paved |
This tour is NOT suitable for guests in wheelchairs; and those with mobility issues, however, they must be able to board the coach on their own |
| 00:45 – 02:45 |
Walk around the Canoa Trail |
Uneven, slippery, muddy |
| 02:45 – 03:45 |
Deluxe Picnic |
Flat |
| 03:45 – 04:30 |
Drive back to the pier for embarkation |
Paved |
|
DURATION / MIN/MAX NO. OF PAX
4 ½ Hours
MIN 10 guests per departure
MAX 90 guests per departure
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Strenuous (walking over 1 km over uneven terrain with many steps)
WHAT’S INCLUDED?
- Touring in luxury private vehicles with A/C & PA-system
- 1 Bottle of water per person
- Local English-speaking tour guide
- Deluxe Picnin
- 1 ship’s escort free of charge per vehicle
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED?
- Any other services not mentioned above.
IMPORTANT NOTES, OBSERVATIONS & RECOMMENDATIONS
- This tour is NOT suitable for guests in wheelchairs or those with mobility issues.
- Few vendors accept credit cards; we recommend that guests bring cash (USD) if they wish to purchase anything. In Ecuador $50 or $100 notes are not easily accepted, so guests should try to bring small change. Travelers’ checks are not accepted.
- All timings are approximate and subject to change.
- It is recommended guests wear lightweight clothing, including long pants and a long-sleeved shirt, along with sunblock, sunglasses, a hat, insect repellent (it is a must) and flat, comfortable walking shoes and a camera.
|
12/28/2024 |
12/28/2024 |
Guayaquil
Guayaquil 12/29/2024
This morning fly home. (B),
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
-
Ride Like a Local - 4 hours
One of the best ways to truly get to know a city is by using its public transportation systems. Be it buses, trains, subways or airways, they all give a real taste of what it really is to live in a specific city. Today you are welcome to be part of the experience of the locals and admire Guayaquil from above onboard the recently inaugurated Guayaquil Airway, an environmentally friendly project that seeks to reduce the emission of carbon dioxide into the air.
You will be picked up from the port and driven onboard the coach towards Parque Centenario Station where you will take the airway and, along with your guide board one of the cabins and go all the way through the Guayas River in a 20 minutes ride towards the station of Daule, where we will disembark and take the ride back to Guayaquil where you will debark at Four Mosqueteros station.
Adding the final touch to this exciting half-day visit the Anthropological and Contemporary Art Museum of Guayaquil (MAAC) that has an area of more than 9000 square feet. The museum is a pleasant surprise, not only because of its display of modern art, but because of the size and extent of its archeological collection. The MAAC is a great way to see more of Ecuador’s culture and history – and spend some time out of the sun.
At the end, board the bus and drive back to the quayside.
DURATION
4 Hours
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Easy (Limited Walking – under 500 meters over flat terrain with some steps)
WHAT’S INCLUDED?
- Touring in luxury private vehicles with A/C & PA-system
- Airway entrance fee (roundtrip)
- 1 Bottle of water per person
- Local English-speaking tour guide
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED?
- Any other services not mentioned above.
IMPORTANT NOTES, OBSERVATIONS & RECOMMENDATIONS
- This tour is not suitable for guests in wheelchairs or those with mobility issues.
- Few vendors accept credit cards; we recommend that guests bring cash (USD) if they wish to purchase anything. In Ecuador $50 or $100 notes are not easily accepted, so guests should try to bring small change. Travelers’ checks are not accepted.
- All timings are approximate and subject to change.
- It is recommended guests wear lightweight clothing, including long pants and a long-sleeved shirt, along with sunblock, sunglasses, a hat, insect repellent (it is a must) and flat, comfortable walking shoes and a camera.
-
Cerro Blanco Wildlife and Forest Trail - 4.5 hours
Introducing the "Cerro Blanco Wildlife and Forest Trail" - a tour of the largest and best-preserved dry forest in Ecuador. Explore the protected forest, located in the extreme Southwest of the Chongón Colonche mountain range, just outside the city. This adventure departs early in the morning and takes you on a 1.2 km trail, showcasing the breathtaking biodiversity of the area, the trail is called “Canoa”
The Cerro Blanco Protected Forest boasts an impressive number of endemic vascular plants, which protect approximately 100 of the 500 species registered in the tropical dry forest region. If we are lucky, you'll discover the magnificent range of wildlife that includes 54 species of mammals, such as monkeys, peccaries, agouti, 6 species of wild cats, including the majestic Jaguar, and 34 species of bats. Bird lovers will have the opportunity to spot a few of the 221 species of birds registered in the area that includes the endangered Great Green Macaw (Papagayo), which is the symbol of Cerro Blanco. Not to mention the 8 species of amphibians and 12 species of reptiles. It is important to note wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.
During your walk along the trail, you will experience a variety of landscapes, including the forest and mangrove. The route is divided into two sections. The first section is a mountainous terrain, where you will find small slopes, rocky paths, and a native vegetation of the dry forest. This part of the trail offers the perfect vantage points to take in the stunning scenery. The second section is a second-growth forest, where you can appreciate the beauty of the forest and its natural regrowth.
After returning from the hike, a delicious picnic will be waiting for us to refresh and recover energy before heading back to the pier.
SUGGESTED TOUR TIMINGS
| TIMING |
ITINERARY & POINTS OF INTEREST |
TERRAIN |
W/C FRIENDLY |
| 00:00 – 00:45 |
Depart the quayside and drive to Cerro Blanco |
Paved |
This tour is NOT suitable for guests in wheelchairs; and those with mobility issues, however, they must be able to board the coach on their own |
| 00:45 – 02:45 |
Walk around the Canoa Trail |
Uneven, slippery, muddy |
| 02:45 – 03:45 |
Deluxe Picnic |
Flat |
| 03:45 – 04:30 |
Drive back to the pier for embarkation |
Paved |
|
DURATION / MIN/MAX NO. OF PAX
4 ½ Hours
MIN 10 guests per departure
MAX 90 guests per departure
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Strenuous (walking over 1 km over uneven terrain with many steps)
WHAT’S INCLUDED?
- Touring in luxury private vehicles with A/C & PA-system
- 1 Bottle of water per person
- Local English-speaking tour guide
- Deluxe Picnin
- 1 ship’s escort free of charge per vehicle
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED?
- Any other services not mentioned above.
IMPORTANT NOTES, OBSERVATIONS & RECOMMENDATIONS
- This tour is NOT suitable for guests in wheelchairs or those with mobility issues.
- Few vendors accept credit cards; we recommend that guests bring cash (USD) if they wish to purchase anything. In Ecuador $50 or $100 notes are not easily accepted, so guests should try to bring small change. Travelers’ checks are not accepted.
- All timings are approximate and subject to change.
- It is recommended guests wear lightweight clothing, including long pants and a long-sleeved shirt, along with sunblock, sunglasses, a hat, insect repellent (it is a must) and flat, comfortable walking shoes and a camera.
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12/29/2024 |
12/29/2024 |
The Signature Collection – Exclusive Amenities
