Perfect if you want a trip wholly focused on wildlife. Every aspect, including the vehicle, accommodation and guide, is geared to immerse you in, and educate you about, the natural world.
Ecuador’s contrasting ecosystems, from the Amazon jungle to the Galapagos archipelago
Spend a week up high and down low in the Amazon, looking for giant otters, sloth, monkeys, caiman and many colourful species of bird. By contrast, the volcanic islands of the Galapagos offer a very different encounter: Sea lions scatter the beaches, fearless Marine iguanas find camouflage on blackened rocks and countless birds nest in the cliffs above.
Highlights
Stay in the Napo Wildlife Centre, a community-owned lodge within the UNESCO Biosphere of Yasuni National Park
Visit parrot clay licks, explore the lake by dug-out canoe and walk through primary rainforest
Seven nights aboard a catamaran exploring the Galapagos Islands - a maximum of 16 clients on board
Snorkel with iridescent fish, playful Sea lions and turtles
Fantastic on-board service with experienced naturalist guide
Travel by internal flight, catamaran, canoe and minibus
Group normally 4 to 16 plus local naturalist guide
Countries visited: Ecuador
What's Included
All breakfasts, 10 lunches, 10 dinners
All accommodation
All transport and listed activities
Tour leader throughout
Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Arrival and departure transfers
Snorkel equipment (mask, snorkel and fins) available free of charge on board
What's Not Included
Travel insurance
Single accommodation (availble on request)
Visas or vaccinations
Compulsory Galapagos taxes US$220, paid locally
Sustainability and Impact
At Exodus, we thrive on travel, and we firmly believe our adventures should help destinations thrive too.
As a certified B Corp, we aim to take a ‘nature positive’ approach across our adventures, including carbon and waste reduction, animal welfare and support for rewilding and conservation. We also seek to contribute to local communities, providing economic opportunity and empowerment.
The adventure begins in Quito, aim to arrive at the hotel this afternoon/evening. Free transfers are available for all clients. A local guide will welcome you to Quito and explain the schedule for the next few days.
Accommodation: Hotel Casona de la Ronda (or similar)
Day
2
Quito city tour
We have a half-day city tour of Quito, one of the smaller and more attractive of the capitals of South America – 2,850m high in the western cordillera of the Andes. Quito is the second highest capital in the world, and as always at altitude, it is a good idea not to do anything too strenuous at first!
We explore the colonial centre with its narrow streets and hanging balconies. The tour usually includes the Independence Plaza, flanked by the Presidential and the Archbishop palaces as well as La Compañia Church with its impressive gold leaf decorations. A short drive brings us to El Panecillo Hill for a panoramic view of the city and to admire the 45m high statue of the ‘Virgen de Quito’, the only original Madonna with wings. Please note that entrance fees are not included.
Accommodation: Hotel Casona de la Ronda (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast
Day
3
Fly to Coca; canoe excursion to Napo Wildlife Centre
Transfer to Quito airport this morning for a 40-minute flight from Quito to Coca. A short drive takes us to the dock where we board a large, motorized canoe for a two-hour ride down-stream. At the entrance to the Napo Wildlife Centre reserve, we transfer to smaller, paddled dug-out canoes so as not to disturb the wildlife. This paddle can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours depending on what sightings we have (we may have the chance to spot Giant otters, along with monkeys and countless bird species including toucans, parrots, and macaws). The final part of the journey involves crossing the spectacular Anangu Lake and arriving at the lodge to receive a welcome drink and briefing.
Accommodation: Napo Wildlife Centre
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Days
4 - 5
Two days at the Napo Wildlife Centre
Spend the next two days at the Napo Wildlife Centre (NWC). Choice and flexibility are key at the lodge but hopefully the following information should give you a good idea of what to expect. Rather than fixed programmes, the guide will design the most suitable schedule to match the groups physical condition and personal interests. Early starts are necessary in order to maximise our wildlife viewing opportunities. NWC has one of the best parrot clay licks in Ecuador, located around one hour from the lodge. We aim to arrive at the lick before the parrot activity kicks off fully at around 7-8am. The lodge also has a 36m-canopy tower, which offers a fantastic insight into the various vertical layers of the jungle and their inhabitants. Spider monkeys frequent the higher canopy searching for fruit and the panoramic view from the top is magnificent, as is the bird viewing. Numerous trails from the lodge offer hikes amongst the primary rainforest and we will head out during the day to learn about the trees and the forest and at night in search of caiman and other nocturnal creatures. Naturally, exploring the lake and creeks by dug-out canoe is a highlight and one of the best ways to see larger animals.
Accommodation: Napo Wildlife Centre
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day
6
Fly to Quito
Return to Quito the same way we arrived – paddled canoe down the creek, motorised canoe back up the river to Coca and then a short drive to the airport for the flight to Quito.
Accommodation: Hotel Casona de la Ronda (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast
Day
7
Discover Quito at your leisure
We include a free day in Quito to allow time for any delays coming back from the rainforest. An optional excursion to the cloud forest can be organised for this day at the start of the tour.
Accommodation: Hotel Casona de la Ronda (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast
Day
8
Fly to Baltra Airport on the Galapagos and visit Bachas beach
Morning: Fly to Galapagos
Transfer to Quito Airport and fly to Baltra Airport in the Galapagos Islands. Upon arrival, you pass through the airport inspection point to make sure no foreign plants or animals are introduced to the island, and to pay the national park entrance fee. Your guide will meet you, help you collect your luggage and escort you on a short bus ride to the harbour where a dinghy will take you to the yacht.
Afternoon: Bachas Beach (Santa Cruz)
This is a lovely bay with soft, white coral sand frequently visited by egg-laying sea turtles – watch your step! After enjoying leisure time at the beach, you could explore a small lagoon hidden behind bushes, where occasionally it is possible to observe flamingos, black-necked stilts and whimbrels. You might also see rusty barges, which were abandoned here after the Second World War when the USA rented this island as a strategic point to protect the Panama Channel from Japan.
Accommodation: Archipel I
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day
9
Genovesa Island
Morning: Prince Philip’s Steps
Genovesa has a royal touch. Follow in the footsteps of Prince Philip – who admired the Galapagos for many years – and visit this favourite birding spot, home to the largest breeding colonies of red-footed and nazca boobies and short-eared owls, which hunt on foot.
Afternoon: Darwin Bay
One of the outer islands and among the most exclusive spots on the Galapagos, Genovesa is well worth last night’s longer navigation. This compact site displays the varied coastal ecosystems of the Galapagos in miniature – nearly too much for a single day.
Accommodation: Archipel I
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day
10
Bartolomé and Santiago
Morning: Bartolomé
This tiny volcano islet is just recently born out of fire. Enter its wild setting of spatter cones and craters and admire beautiful panoramas of the Galapagos.
Afternoon: Sullivan Bay (Santiago)
Sullivan Bay is incomparable to any other site; setting foot on the recently solidified lava flow is like walking on the moon.
Accommodation: Archipel I
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day
11
Santa Cruz Island
Morning: El Chato Reserve – Twin Craters
El Chato Reserve is a protected area and part of the Galapagos National Park, extending from Cerro El Chato as far down as the southwestern coast of Santa Cruz Island.
Afternoon: Fausto Llerena Breeding Center
On a tour of the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center, you can see the tortoises of Española Island, ending in the tortoise exhibit corral. Tortoises of this corral are accustomed to humans – an excellent chance to capture a photo for your wall back home.
Accommodation: Archipel I
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day
12
Floreana Island
Morning: Cormorant Point and Devil’s Crown
The peninsula of Cormorant Point forms the extreme north cape of Floreana, which exists out of smaller volcanic cones, covered by a tropical dry forest of palo santo. At the landing beach, you will be welcomed by a small Galapagos sea lion colony. The green sand on this beach contains a high percentage of glassy olivine crystals, which have been blown out by the surrounding tuff cones. The flour-sand beach on the southern side of the peninsula is made of even finer white-coral sand, which feels very smooth on the feet. Parrotfish have pulverised it, grinding the calcareous skeletons of living coral. You can spot schools of stingrays who love the sandy bottom to hide. During the first months of the year, Pacific green turtles come ashore to bury their eggs.
Devil’s Crown is one of the best snorkelling spots in the Galapagos due to the coral reef in its centre, which attracts a lot of marine life. Here you can spot Galapagos penguins, sea lions, sea turtles, many different colourful fish and even dolphins. The current can be a bit strong sometimes, so it should not be attempted by novice swimmers.
Afternoon: Post Office Bay and Baroness Lookout
Historically, this site was the location of a wooden barrel placed by an 18th-century whaling ship crew; letters placed inside were collected and delivered by sailors returning home. Tourists still leave thousands of letters here today and many still reach their destination. You can also relax on the beach at Post Office Bay, where you may see Galapagos sea lions, Pacific green turtles, golden rays and Galapagos penguins (this is the only place in the southeastern archipelago where penguins reside). You can also climb Baroness Lookout, a small basaltic cone, and enjoy paradisiacal views of the coastline. This viewpoint was the favourite spot the eccentric baroness and self-proclaimed Empress of Galapagos, Eloisa von Wagner, who was one of the first settlers on Floreana.
Accommodation: Archipel I
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day
13
Española Island
Morning: Osborn Islet and Gardner Bay
The striking white beach at Gardner Bay is an important breeding site for Pacific green turtles. However, without a doubt, its main attraction is the Galapagos sea lion colony. Females stay year-round in this nursery, suckling their pups until they are three years’ old, although they start to fish at five months. During the breeding and mating season, the colony becomes even bigger.
Afternoon: Suarez Point
The west tip of Española is a dream for birdwatchers and photographers. Feel as though you’re within an exciting nature documentary and hike a short distance from colourful marine iguanas.
Accommodation: Archipel I
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day
14
San Cristobal Island
Morning: Pitt Point
Two wind-sculpted tuff cones at Pitt Point constitute the easternmost end of the Galapagos and were the first sight of land for the crew of Darwin’s HMS Beagle.
Afternoon: Witch Hill
Enjoy a leisurely afternoon in Witch Hill’s crescent-shaped beach of soft powdery sand.
Accommodation: Archipel I
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Disembark San Cristobal; fly to Guayaquil and end
Morning: Lobos Islet (San Cristobal) and Transfer to San Cristobal Airport
The Lobos Islet’s beach harbours a colony of Galapagos sea lions. As in other colonies in the archipelago, you can approach nurturing females within a few metres. In the breeding season, this colony is also visited by territorial males, defending and mating the harem on their part of the beach. This low islet is home to more than just Galapagos sea lions, two other emblematic species breed here: male blue-footed boobies and great frigate birds who try to impress the females (and tourists) with clumsy dances, heaving their striking blue feet or blowing up their balloon-sized scarlet pouches.
Assisted by the naturalist guide and some crew members, the dinghy will bring you and your luggage to San Cristobal, where we take the airport shuttle. From here, we fly to Guayaquil where it’s possible to connect with international flights from 6pm onwards.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day
15
Disembark San Cristobal; fly to Guayaquil and end
Morning: Lobos Islet (San Cristobal) and Transfer to San Cristobal Airport
The Lobos Islet’s beach harbours a colony of Galapagos sea lions. As in other colonies in the archipelago, you can approach nurturing females within a few metres. In the breeding season, this colony is also visited by territorial males, defending and mating the harem on their part of the beach. This low islet is home to more than just Galapagos sea lions, two other emblematic species breed here: male blue-footed boobies and great frigate birds who try to impress the females (and tourists) with clumsy dances, heaving their striking blue feet or blowing up their balloon-sized scarlet pouches.
Assisted by the naturalist guide and some crew members, the dinghy will bring you and your luggage to San Cristobal, where we take the airport shuttle. From here, we fly to Guayaquil where it’s possible to connect with international flights from 6pm onwards.
Meals included: Breakfast
Arrive London.
Flight Inclusive clients arrive back into London today.
Essential Info
Is this trip for you?
This trip has been graded Activity Level 1 (Easy) with a Safari rating of 5. Visit our Wildlife Holidays page for more on our Wildlife ratings. For more information on our trip gradings please visit the Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.
This trip is great for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and those with an interest in history or geology. Though you do not need to be particularly fit, there will be some walking on rough ground and sharp volcanic rocks due to the volcanic nature of the Galapagos Islands. The ability to withstand high temperatures and to swim will maximise your enjoyment of the trip. Due to local regulations, we have specific time slots for making our landings and site visits. There is usually very little disruption to the schedule, but this can mean little room for deviation in the event of poor weather or other circumstances.
Landings: Each day in the Galapagos will feature a mixture of walking, snorkelling and exploring the islands by boat. To get closer to the designated landing sites on each of the islands, we disembark into small pangas (motorised dinghies). Landings are divided into two types – wet and dry. For dry landings, the panga will take you right up to a landing stage or rocky outcrop where you can disembark without getting wet. However, where there is no landing stage, the panga will stop close to a beach and you will be expected to walk through shallow water (generally no more than ankle-deep) to the shore. The leader will always advise on conditions prior to leaving and it is possible to skip any excursion if you would rather relax on the boat.
Snorkelling: There are plenty of snorkelling opportunities in the Galapagos and this is one of the best ways to experience the marine life. A mask and snorkel will reveal an exciting underwater world with sea lions, rays, turtles, marine iguanas, and a colourful array of fish. On most days, there will be one or two snorkelling sessions. Snorkelling in the Galapagos does not require any special skills; however, at times, you will be snorkelling in open water where there are fairly strong currents. Before going into the water, the guide will evaluate the strength of the currents and the general sea condition to ensure they are right for a safe and enjoyable activity. The dinghy will remain very close at all times; if you get tired or feel like coming out of the water, you only have to raise your arm and they will pick you up so you can rest for a while before going back in or stay in the dinghy until it is time to return to the boat. Snorkelling equipment (snorkel, fins and masks) is provided; however, it is advisable to wear a wetsuit, which not only protects you from the cold but also makes floating much easier without as much effort.
Travellers: We offer this Galapagos cruise in conjunction with our Ecuadorian partners, and Exodus participants will join an international group, not all of whom have booked through Exodus. Occasionally some of these may be younger than Exodus’ minimum age for this trip.
Deposit terms
At the time of booking, we will ask you for the standard Exodus deposit plus an extra 10% of the trip cost to secure your space on the boat. If for any reason we are unable to secure the space and we have to cancel the trip, you will receive a full refund.
Cancellation terms
Due to the nature of this trip, it has slightly different cancellation charges to those listed in the standard Exodus Booking Conditions. After booking, if cancelling your travel arrangements, you will have to pay cancellation charges as follows:
From 90 days to 65 days before departure: loss of deposit (20%)
64 days or less (or failure to join the trip): 100% of the trip cost
Islands visited on this itinerary:
Santa Fe: The dense vegetation of Santa Fe comprises some of the largest species of cactus, including a forest of prickly pear. Large numbers of the endemic Santa Fe land iguana reside here – one of the largest land iguanas on the islands.
South Plaza: A tiny island formed of lava and carpeted with cacti and plants that give it a luxurious red surface. There is abundant bird life here (including tropic birds and swallow-tailed gulls), plus a large number of land and marine iguanas that feed on the cacti.
San Cristóbal: The easternmost island of the archipelago and the first landing point for Charles Darwin in 1835. The provincial capital of the Galapagos Islands, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, is on San Cristóbal, and the town is home to the excellent Galapagos Interpretation Centre. Popular sites for visitors include El Junco Lake (one of the few freshwater lagoons in the archipelago), Frigatebird Hill (unsurprisingly named for the large colonies of magnificent and great frigatebirds), and Kicker Rock, a towering split rock that rises more than 330ft (100m) from the ocean. The highland cloud forests provide a natural habitat for giant tortoises. Huge numbers of sea lions are also present on San Cristóbal and nearby Isla Lobos, reachable by boat, is a big nesting site for blue-footed boobies.
Santa Cruz: The second-largest island in the archipelago, Santa Cruz is home to Puerto Ayora – where most Galapagos ships are docked for embarkation – and the Charles Darwin Research Station, which conducts tortoise research programmes and is heavily involved in the management and conservation of the islands along with the national park authorities. The Santa Cruz highlands are much greener than the dry lowlands of the other islands and are home to freely roaming tortoises. In common with the rest of the group, Santa Cruz has many interesting volcanic features, such as pit craters and lava tunnels, and there is also a flamingo lagoon at Cerro Dragón.
Fernandina: The third-largest island, Fernandina is an active shield volcano noted for its fine examples of aa and pahoehoe lava flows. The Fernandina ecosystem is remarkably untouched, and the island has never been invaded by foreign species and predators. As a result, the cormorants here had no real need to fly and gradually evolved into flightless birds with small wings and feet that are extremely well-adapted to swimming. Land iguanas have also flourished due to the lack of predators – the island is home to the largest colony in the Galapagos.
Isabela: One of the youngest and most volcanically active islands with stark lava fields blackening the landscape, Isabela is larger than all the other islands combined. The lunar-like interior is perfect for an unusual trekking experience, and the cloud forest is home to five subspecies of the giant Galapagos tortoise. Marine life here is rich and varied, and it’s possible to see stingrays, white-tipped reef sharks and turtles in the mangroves and submerged lava tunnels, plus playful dolphins and the odd glimpse of breaching humpback whales.
Santiago: Home of the Galapagos fur seal, which likes the rocky shoreline and shady spots of the island. Around 30,000 to 40,000 live in the Galapagos, and the majority are found close to Puerto Egas, either on the rocks or on its black beaches. The island is a good place to see Galapagos hawks and Darwin finches, and there’s a popular snorkelling site called Chinese Hat where penguins, rays, turtles and playful sea lion pups reside.
Following a review of all our trips we have categorised this trip as generally not suitable for persons of reduced mobility. However if you are a regular traveller on such trips, please contact customer services to discuss the trip and your personal condition.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Start hotel: La Casona de la Ronda Hotel, Juan de Dios Morales Oe1-160 y, Quito 170405, Ecuador Phone: +593 2-228-7538 Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today Airport: Mariscal Sucre Quito International Airport (UIO)
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately 45 minutes’ drive from the airport. Exodus provides free arrival transfers to the start hotel from the airport for all customers. If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
The trip ends at Guayaquil Airport (GYE), where it’s possible to connect with international flights from 6pm onwards. Please speak to your sales representative if you need more information.
Please note, unless specified otherwise, the transfer will be to the start (or pre-tour) hotel and will be on the date on which the tour starts; transfers to other hotels in the same city and/or on different dates may attract an extra charge. Transfers should be booked with your sales representative at least two weeks before the tour starts.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
If booking regional flights other than with Exodus, you must allow a minimum connecting time (in addition to the international check-in time) of 1 hour at Gatwick, and 1.5 hours at Heathrow; this is longer than the official minimum, but baggage handling is known to be subject to delays.
Transfer Details
Exodus offers FREE airport arrival transfers for any flight for this trip, for both Land Only and Flight Inclusive clients, so no matter which flight you choose to arrive on you will be met and transferred to your hotel. We do not offer free departure transfers on this trip because the tour ends at Guayaquil airport. All those taking advantage of the free airport arrival transfers must provide full flight details in advance; unless specified otherwise, the transfer will be to the Exodus start (or pre-tour) hotel; transfers to other hotels in the same city may attract an extra charge; transfers may be shared with other Exodus customers on the same flight, or on a flight with similar arrival times.
Vaccinations and Health
Ecuador
There are no required vaccinations. However, recommended vaccinations include tetanus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies, tuberculosis, typhoid and yellow fever. Please check all vaccination recommendations with your doctor or travel clinic.
You will also require a yellow fever vaccination certificate if arriving from Brazil, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda or if you have transited through those same three countries for more than 12 hours.
If you plan to visit the Amazon Rainforest, we recommend a yellow fever vaccination. Malaria is also a risk in some areas of the country (including the Amazon Rainforest) so we suggest you consult a doctor for more advice. Additionally, dengue, chikungunya and zika, all viral diseases spread by mosquitoes, are known risks in places visited. There are currently no vaccines or prophylaxes available, so take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
Please note: All visitors to Ecuador will be required to show valid medical insurance on arrival and cannot enter the country without it.
Visa
Ecuador
Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Ecuador. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.
All breakfasts, 10 lunches and 10 dinners included.
On board meals are plentiful with a wide choice of international and local cuisine. Breakfasts will usually consist of cheese, meats, eggs, cereal, toasts, yoghurts, and fruits. Snacks are provided mid-morning and mid-afternoon, and for lunches and dinner soup usually precedes the main course. Alcoholic drinks are available on board (approx. US$4 per beer, US$32.50 for a bottle of wine, around US10 for selected cocktails) and the crew request that you do not bring your own alcohol with you. Drinking water, tea, coffee and juice is freely available at no additional charge.
At Napo Wildlife Centre, breakfast is a large buffet of cereals, fresh fruit and breads with cheese, eggs and jams. Lunch and dinner are usually three courses and served by a waiter. The lodge has a well-stocked bar.
Vegetarians and vegans can be well catered for on this holiday – please do inform us before departure of any special dietary requests so that our local team can be well prepared.
Weather
In Quito and the highlands, it should be warm by day and generally dry. Maximum daytime temperatures are almost constant throughout the year at 20ºC, nights 8ºC. Some rain can be expected in February to May and October to November but storms, though heavy, are generally short, and Quito is considered to have quite a pleasant climate.
It is possible to visit the Galapagos at any time of year, but seasonal variations do affect what you see and there are climatic changes to be aware of. The weather is controlled by the two main ocean currents of the region, the Humboldt, bringing cold water from the Antarctic, and El Nino, which brings tropical water from the Gulf of Panama. How close to Galapagos they converge (which varies from year to year) is the key to the weather.
‘Dry season’
Generally speaking, late May to early December is the cooler ‘dry’ season. In this period, it is not necessarily dry, as there is a persistent light mist (garua) and often light drizzle, and the higher mountain slopes are covered in cloud and fog or rain. At this time the winds are in the southeast and are higher than at other times, so seas can sometimes be choppy, and anyone worried about seasickness might be better advised to avoid it. Daytime maximum temperatures lie between 27ºC and 31ºC, the cooler months being July to November. In July and August, the fairly strong winds introduce a chill factor, and it can feel quite cold at nights, though throughout the year the official night temperatures vary between 19ºC and 24ºC.
‘Wet season’
Depending on how close the convergence of the two currents comes to Galapagos, there may or may not be a wet season from January to April or May. Approximately every seven years the El Nino current actually hits the islands and there will be heavy rains in these months. In other years rain usually falls sporadically from otherwise clear skies. The ocean temperatures are higher, with generally calm seas and strong sunshine: pleasant, but potentially very hot. Apart from an El Nino year, the weather is usually better from December/January to April/May than at other times even if there is some rain, and most people would regard these months as the best time to go.
There are plenty of wildlife highlights throughout the year:
January: Nesting land birds; Green sea turtles arrive to lay eggs on the islands beaches; land iguana’s start breeding on Isabela. February: Nesting Marine iguanas on Santa Cruz; Greater flamingos start nesting on Floreana. March: The bright red throat pouches of frigatebirds are inflated during mating season on Genovesa and San Cristobal. April: Huge numbers of Waved albatross on Española displaying courtship rituals; eggs of Green sea turtles begin to hatch; land iguana eggs hatch on Isabela. May: Courtship of Blue-footed boobies begins on North Seymour; Waved albatross on Española start laying eggs. June: Giant tortoises migrate to the lowlands and start nesting; migrating birds stop in the Galapagos to rest; migrating Humpback whales can often be seen around the western islands. July: Dolphins and whales are more likely to be seen around the western islands; Blue-footed boobies on Española start breeding. August: Nazca boobies nest on Genovesa Island; Sea lions start giving birth to pups. September: Penguins seen in the water when snorkelling around Bartolome. October: Galapagos Fur seals start mating; Blue-footed boobies start raising chicks. November: Curious Sea lion pups found in the water amongst snorkelers. December: Mating Green sea turtles; Waved albatross chicks fledge.
Weather Charts
Catamaran, jungle lodge and hotel
On this trip, we spend:
Four nights in a hotel (normally Hotel Casona de la Ronda)
Three nights in a jungle lodge at Napo Wildlife Centre, where you stay in individual wooden and concrete cabins. The centre is small with only 12 cabins.
We also spend seven nights on a catamaran (see below for more)
Worth knowing
Single rooms can be arranged for a supplement for the four hotel nights in Quito and the three nights at the Napo Wildlife Centre, subject to availability – please enquire at the time of booking.
Unfortunately, we cannot offer single cabins on board the boat in the Galapagos, and you will be paired up with another traveller of the same sex for the seven nights on board.
Archipel I catamaran
Cruise around the Galapagos on Archipel I, a catamaran overseen by nine crew members. On top is a spacious sundeck (come here for stretching views over the Pacific Ocean and islands), plus loungers and a dining area.
Inside, there’s a lounge with a stocked bar and another dining space. Additionally, the vessel has eight cabins: two with double beds and six with two single beds; all have air conditioning and private bathrooms.
The experience is undoubtedly enhanced by the on-board naturalist, an expert on the wildlife of the Galapagos. The vessel also has four double sea kayaks and snorkeling equipment, which we can use on guided adventures.
Boat specifications:
Catamaran
16-passenger capacity with two double cabins and six twin cabins
Single rooms can be arranged for a supplement for the hotel nights in Quito, subject to availability – please enquire at the time of booking. We cannot offer single cabins on the catamaran; therefore, solo guests will be paired with another guest of the same sex for the seven nights on board.
Travelling between islands is often done overnight, so expect some cabin noise and movement.
The Napo Lodge Wildlife centre lodges are amazing and very comfortable. Lots of wildlife to see from the open canoe up the various creeks and the easy walking through the jungle.
In Galapagos we did the western itinerary (B) this time having done the eastern itinerary 10 years ago. We found the two to be quite different in some ways with noticeably fewer seabirds on this trip compared to 10 years ago although they were slightly different times of year. However this itinerary is much better for penguins and turtles and the flightless cormorant can only be seen on itinerary B. B is said to be better for whales but we didn’t see any – just dolphins. Either way it is a tremendous wildlife experience but don’t expect an idyllic tropical island paradise, the islands can be quite stark and barren and the water is cold despite it being on the equator.
Most Inspirational Moment
In the Amazon undoubtedly watching a family of giant otters feeding. And in Galapagos it has to be the snorkelling.
Thoughts on Group Leader
In the Amazon, Guido was extremely knowledgeable and despite the fact that I have a Canon SLR camera with long lens he was able to take picture with my mobile phone that I didn't know it was capable of!
In the Amazon Franklin was again very knowledgeable and went out of his way to get my to a Chemist when I had a tummy upset.
We had a delayed arrival in Quito due to and cancelled flight and the reps in Quito rearranged our itinerary for us and were most helpful.
Advice for Potential Travellers
The lodges in the Amazon are amazing but to get there involves nearly 2 hrs of paddling in an open canoe (don't worry the paddling is done for you!) because no engines are allowed in the national park. Ponchos are provided if it rains (and it does) but they are not that effective against a torrential downpour. It rained for the last 20 minutes of our return trip when we left and we were still wet sitting in the airport waiting for our flight back to Quito. Maybe have your own reliable waterproofs available.
The trip notes say that Wellington boots are issued but they may not cater for big feet. I am a UK size 12 or even 13 and had no problem, in fact the first pair I tried were too big!
In Galapagos we found "Cachalote Explorer" rather a noisy ship, especially when on the move and particularly in the downstairs cabins, and that's most of them. There is quite a lot of moving at night and the sea can have quite a swell on. I thought I'd find sleep difficult but I got used to it.
The sea in Galapagos can be pretty cold but wet suits are provided free now - there used to be a charge.
Debi Jones
Reviewed May 2019
What an experience!!!!
I hoped for a lot, but expected nothing (especially in the Amazon) but we saw more wildlife than I knew there was! And as for the Galapagos…..Sensational. Holiday of a lifetime and would recommend to anyone. Truly brilliant. Am delighted to have managed to have whittled my photos down to about 650 (and 35 videos!). The Napo Lodge was stunning with fabulous staff but the Cachalotte was possibly even better (though cabin much smaller and less glamorous than lodge). The memories will be something I treasure forever.
The organisation from beginning to end made everything so easy and I will definitely be travelling with Exodus again.
Most Inspirational Moment
Snorkeling with sealions, a turtle and penguin (never having snorkeled before!)
And the animals and birds just being truly fearless and natural
I could go on....
Thoughts on Group Leader
Very pleasant and efficient
Advice for Potential Travellers
Try snorkeling at home first! I panicked the first 2 times in the water (although it was a deep water snorkel) but after an hour's practice in the shallows I took to it like a penguin to water.
And take lots of SD cards!
Kirsten Andersson
Reviewed May 2019
Met and exceeded expectations
Great trip first to Napo then to Galapagos. We were delighted with the quality of service, organization and attention to details.
Most Inspirational Moment
There were so many moments to choose from. Highlights were swimming with sea lions, watching wave albatrosses mate and watching land iguanas battle for territory. A difficult but natural moment occurred when we watched a boa attack and absorb a parrot
Thoughts on Group Leader
Group leader in Napo was great. Knowledgeable and highly skilled communicator. Group leader in Galapagos was a nice young man but we could tell he was on one of his last trips.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Be ready to wake up early and go to bed early. Eat everything they feed you; you’ll either work it off in activities or sweat it out in the heat.
Penelope Becker
Reviewed August 2018
Good trip
Went with my 22 year old son July 18 .. flew via Bogotá to Quito on Avianca ..Long transit at Bogotá Airport, recommend buying transit lounge pass, but staff very unhelpful, and on return trip . Quito high altitude and lovely authentic hotel .. restaurant close by , son ate guinea pig ,, and recommend artisan market for Alpaca poncho and Panama hats .Long boat ride to Napo destination and wonderful accommodation in newest palapa on lake edge with outdoor jacuzzi , deck and hammock, but very little free time to relax ..stinky turkey birds …great character and plumage …Canoe rides fab, but not much wildlife can be seen from canoes because of dense undergrowth . Super watchtower at Napo valley for birdwatching ..no good if you can’t do heights, climbed two other watchtowers for amazing views over canopy to see blue macaws and toucans ..best view from watchtowers with scope provided and set up by Eduardo ..also took pics through scope ..can sway a bit with large group up top ..not for the faint hearted ..also saw cayman and river otters from canoe ..managed to get away from noisy Australians by ducking out of village tour , and instead Eduardo took us for a. Jungle trek and climbed watchtower on our own to see blue macaws ..absolutely fantastic . He also presented us with an enormous male crested owl after a trek ..so exciting …
back to back excursions, got bitten last night as too tired to be vigilant, blessed the fact we had our vaccinations ..lots of monkeys ..very hard to see ..your own bins an absolute must .. one sloth , through scope ..hard to see ….Very remote location ….parrot licks amazing ..back to Quito and then to Galapagos, fortunately for us we were upgraded to Beluga …lovely boat, no time to rest…daily very early starts ..on and off a panga to islands ..all that you could wish for ..2 more owl, barn in lava cave ..short eared owl on open terrain ..swum with sea lions, lots of turtles, son went diving in washing machine ..not good clarity .ha ha …all the boobies you could wish for ..right next to you .. ..albatross ..nesting ..eggs, chicks tropicbirds , yellow warblers ..finch, Galapagos mockinbird .. marine and land iguanas everywhere ..sea lions ..no penguins ….could see golden rays from cliff top ..a lot of walking ..daily ..extreme snorkelling ..very cold water for me …my shortie not thick enough ..even with rash vest ..too exhausted to do one afternoon on lava island ..thought I would rest in cabin, but staff had a noisy get together ..also rough sea on night journeys ..every night ..barely slept ..big day with tortoises ..returned via night in Guayancil ..more alpaca from market ..and then Bogotá to London ..arrived home totally exhausted ..not enough sleep throughout trip ..good food on board ..took my own snorkel and fins .. saw a juvenile hammerhead from panga on last day around mangroves , juvenile sharks .spotted rays and turtles plentiful ..managed to change cabins for final 3 nights …put in tiny cabin .originally …one porthole and not enough daylight ..make sure you get one with at least 2 portholes ..upstairs cabins open on to seating area ..but best with huge windows ..lots of getting on and off pangas and trekking ..would rate level 2 … came home and slept for a week ……camera with bird watching zoom lens essential
Most Inspirational Moment
Mating dance of albatross and the albatross nesting site ..
Thoughts on Group Leader
Good
Advice for Potential Travellers
Too tired.. in Quito twice but only went to park and city tour ..artisan market ..too tired to go to cloud forest and very expensive ..however managed to see England v Sweden World Cup match .., and also when we were thrashed by Croatia ..there in no internet on the boat but can get on Darwin in cafe
Eric Watts
Reviewed September 2017
Amazon and Galapagos
Excellent wildlife, the snorkeling was amazing – turtles, sea lions and occasional (small) sharks.
Good guides.
Hectic with early starts and busy schedule.
Worst experience was having my bag with all my valuables stolen from the hotel lobby – although we were aware of steet crime we did expect to be safe within the hotel.
Most Inspirational Moment
Swimming with sea lios
Thoughts on Group Leader
Good - both of them
Advice for Potential Travellers
Never let go of your valuables
Ruth Luck
Reviewed August 2016
Amazon and Galápagos Islands
This trip surpassed anything I could ever have imagined.
The Napo Wildlife Centre is beautiful. The service, accommodation, guiding and sightings were fantastic. An incredible place to stay with some incredible birding.
The Cachalote 1 and her crew were just amazing. Kind, generous, knowledgeable and so helpful. I had hurt my neck earlier in the trip and the crew went above and beyond to help me out. Each island brought a new, remarkable landscape with it’s own unique species. The snorkelling was beyond the imagination and our guide was flexible and eager for us to see as much as possible.
Most Inspirational Moment
Amazon -Being introduced to the entire of the Napo staff, their names, their roles and being given the opportunity to say our thanks to the "backstage" staff you rarely see. Listening to Howler monkeys.
Galápagos - sitting on the upper deck of the Cachalote, staring up at the big Southern Hemisphere sky feeling blessed, having just swam with sea lions, sharks and dolphins. Darwin is an incredibly knowledgeable guide who genuinely loves what he does. His excitement is contagious and his ability to find what you want to see is unreal.
Thoughts on Group Leader
We had 2 guides in the Amazon and both were fantastic at spotting animals and birds as well as being able to identify everything! They were happy to answer questions and spend time with each of the group members.
Darwin was our guide in the Galápagos and his knowledge was outstanding. He was approachable, happy to answer questions and keen to adapt to the groups needs. The best thing I could say is that when I return to the Galápagos, I will only go with Darwin and the Cachalote crew.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Get up early, be adventurous and sit quietly in order to truly appreciate the beauty of your surroundings. Take your snorkel stuff with you on every panga ride (if you are allowed), you just never know when you'll see something amazing. And if you go in August - take seasickness pills (I never got sick and it only took me 2 days to get my sea legs but the seasickness pills saved me)
Ethel Robinson
Reviewed March 2015
Galapagos and Amazon
What a fantastic adventure! The rain forest was amazing, paddling up the creek to the Napo Wildlife Centre was like going to a different world. The cabanas were lovely, food plentiful and tasty. We saw Giant River Otters twice! Wow! It was the rain forest, so guess what, it rained! (but not all the time.)
Cachalote was equally comfortable, if a little cramped, and Cookie produced excellent meals, need to go on a diet now. The walks on the islands were short, but interesting with an abundance of wildlife providing loads of photo opportunities.Snorkeling was brilliant, even for a novice like me.
The Hotel Vieja Cuba in Quito was quaint and unusual.
Most Inspirational Moment
When the boat was surrounded by a pod of minky whales. We could even hear them calling to one another.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Delfin was informative and knowledgeable, keen and enthusiastic, whilst Fabio had eagle eyes. Together they were amazing.
In the Galapogas Christina was equally knowledgeable and as a resident showed her love of the islands.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Pracice snorkelling and buy a good camera or you will be very left out!
Karen Beswick
Reviewed February 2015
Galapagos and Napo Wildlife Centre
This trip was unbelievable and hard to put into words to give it justice. I went with no expectations although the reviews I read were good. From the moment we arrived it was an adventure with experiences that can only be described as amazing. From the wildlife to climbing the volcano every moment is one which I will treasure. There is not one thing I can say that is negative.
Most Inspirational Moment
There are so many it is hard to choose but when you get out of the sea after swimming with a pod of about 100 dolphins and struggle to control your emotions I guess it has to be that but honestly everything had it's own special moment.. to be able to swim with dolphins, turtles, sea lions, penguins, sharks, sea iguanas, and the most amazing fish was a privilege beyond compare. Climbing the volcanoes and seeing the views was equally amazing.
Napo was beautiful and the highlight has to be the macaws flying over the canopy as we stood on the tower. We saw lots of parrots and birds. Also several types of monkey, The setting on the lake is beautiful.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Darwin....well I think he is a merman! Fantastic guy who swam with the most able and then equally came on to the beach to be with the least able. Good sense of humour and very knowledgeable. Could not fault him. Kind and caring without being patronising.
In Napo we were guided by Delpin and he was brilliant. Even managed to find a blue frog.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Book it and extend to Napo Wildlife Centre after. Such a contrast to the Galapagos and equally as amazing.
It is an active trip but all abilities are able to go.. the fit and not so fit...
Reviewed December 2013
GALAPAGOS & AMAZON
A wonderful trip, which combined an exhilerating journey into the Amazon basin and a unique tour of a number of the Galapagos islands on board the Cachalote.
Most Inspirational Moment
Difficult to pick out just one memory. The Napo Lodge, run by Anangu Kichwa community, is breathtaking. Snorkling with sealions and huge turtles was also a fantastic experience. Cachalote is a wonderful yacht - great atmosphere and the best way to island hop in the Galapagos.
Thoughts on Group Leader
This trip did not involve just one group leader. The three we met were all excellent. A special mention to Glorio in Quito who helped us find an alternative hotel when we arrived in Quito without accomadation at one o'clock in the morning!
Advice for Potential Travellers
Take sun protection with a high factor. You will need plenty of protection whilst on the Cachalote.
Reviewed June 2013
GALAPAGOS & AMAZON
A fantastic two and half weeks. The organisation of all the guides was superb, excellent food through out the holiday and the wildlife sightseeing in both the Amazonian rainforest and on and around the Galapagos Islands was sensational.
Most Inspirational Moment
The mini-bus having to stop and then squeeze past a giant tortoise on the track road on our first tour on Santa Cruz.Snorkelling with sea lions swimming close by, and having to "make way" for a large turtle as it ascended to the surface for air, I was floating directly above the turtle looking down while it was feeding.Walking past sea lions basking on beaches, and laying down beside them (not too near!!) to have the customary tourist photograph taken.Diving off the Cachalote yacht into the Pacific Ocean.
Thoughts on Group Leader
All the leaders were superb. Juan (Galapagos islands) was very good and attentive to detail and very informative about the wild life. Jairo (Napa Wildlife Lodge) was also very good, friendly and outgoing, helpful and knowledgeble.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Take waterproof camera for snorkelling. Take more cash than you think you might need, especially if you wish to tip the guides, boat crew and other leaders through out the hoilday. Used ATM once to withdraw additional dollars without any problem, took the precuation of using an ATM within a building (e.g. inside The Raddisson Hotel).Pack lightly and with luggage that can be folded for the yacht cruise. Storage space is limited, the Exodus holdalls are superb for this job and you can pack these in a larger bag so you can split luggage and leave some in the hotel in Quito.
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and can be booked, although some components will need to be requested. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and can be booked, although some components will need to be requested. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip Price£ 8499£ 9699
Book with £ 2124 deposit
Book with £ 2424 deposit
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and can be booked, although some components will need to be requested. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip Price£ 8499£ 9699
Book with £ 2124 deposit
Book with £ 2424 deposit
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and can be booked, although some components will need to be requested. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip Price£ 8499£ 9799
Book with £ 2124 deposit
Book with £ 2449 deposit
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and can be booked, although some components will need to be requested. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
Land Only Trip Price£ 8499£ 9799
Book with £ 2124 deposit
Book with £ 2449 deposit
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and can be booked, although some components will need to be requested. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
*Please note any date & price adjustments will be displayed on the next step of booking. You will be able to revert back to booking without flights if the options aren't suitable for you.
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