! Adventure, Activities and Random Events
Epic Ecuador & Galapagos Islands Vacation
Thursday Nov 12 - Saturday Nov 21, 2015
Don’t wait another year to make your Travel Bucket List dreams come true. You’ll be awed by all the exotic and unique scenery, have the rare opportunity to experience wildlife up close, and relax on some of the most beautiful beaches on the planet. This is your chance to see all the Galapagos has to offer, with the ease, safety and fun of an expert guide. This carefully planned journey will take you to the best destinations in the Galapagos Islands, San Cristóbal, Santa Cruz and Bartolome. You will see wildlife closer than you ever thought possible! Sea lions, giant tortoises, pelicans, iguanas, and more interact with visitors daily. The endemic fauna and volcanic island rock formations provide so many incredible landscapes that you’ll have a hard time putting your camera down. In addition, this trip will feature a special tour of Quito and the Ecuador mainland.
Robert Fernandez Bucheli, the owner of Mountain Views Inn in Ecuador will be leading guests on an incredible journey through the Galapagos Islands. Robert is a longtime partner of RANDOM EVENTS, sharing his Ecuadorian heritage with an incredible and fun Adventure Tour starting in mainland Ecuador. Inclusive Features:
• 10 Days & 9 Nights Accommodations at Mountain Views Inn, Hotel Fiesta or similar cozy and comfortable 3-Star Boutique Hotels. You will always feel at home with the Bed and Breakfast charm of special attention and service provided by the attentive staff. All hotels have a bar or dining area and free Wi-Fi, with additional services such as International Phone Calls and Laundry provided at cost. Each hotel carries a personality of its own with amenities such as pool and jacuzzi areas for an ambiance of tranquility and comfort.
• All Breakfasts and Lunches
• Welcome and Farewell Dinners at Mountain Views Inn, with Beer & Wine
• Roundtrip flights between Quito and Galapagos Islands
• All Excursions, Tours, Airport Transfers, and Transportation
• Full Service, Bilingual Tour Guide, with time available for personal exploration
• Full tour of Quito, the most beautiful city in South America with highlights including Independence Plaza, La Mariscal Artisan Market and Intiñan Interactive Solar Museum
• All Top-Ranked Activities and Attractions of the Galapagos Islands: Tortuga Bay Beach, Snorkeling at Kicker Rock, Giant Tortoise Reservations, and the Charles Darwin Research Station with Snorkeling Gear provided
• Incredible interactions with wildlife: walking among Iguanas, Sea Lions & Giant Tortoises or snorkeling with Sea Turtles, Manta Rays & Penguins
• All Ecuadorian Taxes and Service Fees (22%)
Non-Inclusive Features:
• International roundtrip airfare
• Galapagos Island Entrance Fee ($100) and Visitor Card ($10)
• Scuba Diving with Wet Suit, Gear Rental and Certified guide can be arranged at Kicker Rock and Santa Cruz instead of Yacht Tour for an additional $195 per day. Scuba diving will be arranged at the time of request, pending availability.
• Remaining Dinners (7 meals), Alcoholic Beverages, and Personal Snacks
• Additional Hotel options including but not limited to Phone Calls, Internet, or Massage Services
• Any personal changes to the planned itinerary
***Inclusive features are subject to revision at the discretion of Random Events and MVI***
***Additional Time and Excursions at Mountain Views Inn can be added on before or after the tour. Each additional night $150 and includes Meals, Taxes, Tips and Service fees. Excursion packages available starting at $100.
~ Daily Itinerary ~
Day 1: Arrive in Quito, Airport Pickup, Welcome Dinner at Mountain Views Inn
Day 2: Quito City Tour, La Mariscal Artisan Market & Intiñan Interactive Solar Museum
Day 3: Departure to San Cristóbal, Visit the Interpretation Center, Hike to Tijeretas Point, and Loberia Sea Lion Viewing at Playa Mann
Day 4: Tour Cristóbal Highlands, El Junco Volcanic Crater Walk and Enjoy Puerto Chino Beach
Day 5: Boat Tour and Snorkeling at Kicker Rock
Day 6: Boat Taxi to Santa Cruz, Walk through El Chato Tortoise Reserve and the Lava Tunnels of the Santa Cruz Highlands
Day 7: Yacht Tour to Bartolomé Island, Lava Field Hike, Penguin Viewing & Snorkeling
Day 8: Walk, swim & snorkel at Las Grietas and Tortuga Bay Beach
Day 9: Return to Quito, Farewell Dinner at Mountain Views Inn
Day 10: Departure
~ Itinerary Details~
Day 1 - Thursday (November 12)
Arrive in Quito, Airport Pickup, Welcome Dinner at Mountain Views Inn
Upon arrival, Mountain Views Inn will arrange Airport Transfer. Settle in by relaxing for the evening in our room or unwind by the game room, outdoor pool and hot tub. Meet others as they arrive throughout the evening. Enjoy a special Ecuadorian meal with your host at MVI.
Day 2 - Friday (November 13)
Quito City Tour, La Mariscal Artisan Market & Intiñan Interactive Solar Museum
See the city that has been declared by many to be the most beautiful in South America. This city was the first declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1979. With its cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and gilt decorated churches, there is much to see. Take some time exploring Ecuadorian culture and shopping in La Mariscal Artisan Market. Then travel to the always fun, interactive Equatorial Intiñan Solar Museum located at 0 degrees latitude. Learn of the indigenous culture and understand the effects of the natural gravitational forces while standing on the Equator!
Day 3 - Saturday (November 14)
Departure to San Cristóbal, Visit the Interpretation Center, Hike to Tijeretas Point, and Loberia Sea Lion Viewing at Playa Mann
Travel from mainland Ecuador to San Cristóbal Island. After registering in the national park and checking in at the hotel, kick off Galapagos tours with a visit to the Interpretation Center. The museum holds a brief history on the Galapagos Islands, then opens to a unique dry forest filled with cacti, finches, and little lava lizards. Hike the volcanic rock trail to Tijeretas Point and Darwin Bay. You will be treated to your first sweeping views of the Galapagos and Puerto Baquerizo Moreno Bay, with Tijeretas and Blue Footed Boobies flying by. This is a great area to snorkel, see exotic fish and swim with sea lions in a turquoise pool set inside a stunning Volcanic Rock shoreline.
Afterward it’s a short walk to Playa Mann, where the remainder of the afternoon will be spent relaxing on the beach and enjoying the Loberia. Since so many Sea Lions share the island, Cristóbal is also known as Isla Lobo and has many protected breeding areas. You’ll enjoy watching Sea Lions play in the sand alongside sun bathers and swimmers.
The sun sets about 6pm daily in the Galapagos. Each evening we will return to the hotel to freshen up and make dinner plans. You can choose to explore the downtown areas at your leisure or join the group for dinner. The hotels in both Cristóbal and Santa Cruz are located within walking distance to the restaurant and shopping districts. At both islands you’ll easily be able to choose from an array of restaurants featuring both local seafood specialties and traditional international meals. There will be a different, top rated restaurant chosen each evening with a special group dinner and drink available.
Day 4 - Sunday (November 15)
Tour Cristóbal Highlands, El Junco Volcanic Crater Walk and Enjoy Puerto Chino Beach
Start off the day with an early and refreshing breakfast at the hotel so that we can hit the road for the beautiful highlands of San Cristóbal. A small hike leads up the side of an extinct volcano to El Junco, a miraculous fresh water lake in the center of the volcanic crater. This beautiful site offers both incredible panoramic views of the island and ideal bird watching. You may see many of the endemic bird species including Galapagos mockingbirds, pintails, moorhens, pied-billed grebes and frigate birds as they swoop down to the water to wash off the salt from the ocean and dive for fish.
Next it’s a short ride to the San Cristóbal Tortoise Reservation. In conjunction with the Charles Darwin Research Center, this Reservation is a remarkable sanctuary and breeding center for the Giant Tortoises. Quietly wander through open trails to see these gentle giants in their natural habitat. They are often at arm’s length, sharing the trails and searching for leafy greens.
Finally, spend the afternoon in the beautiful and secluded Puerto Chino. This sandy beach is a surfer’s paradise and the perfect spot to enjoy a swim and look for Blue-footed Boobies & Ghost Crabs on the Rocky shore. In the evening take time to stroll through Downtown Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, where sea lions share the cobblestone streets and harbor benches.
Day 5 - Monday (November 16)
Boat Tour and Snorkeling at Kicker Rock
After breakfast, prepare for an unforgettable snorkeling experience. Enjoy a refreshing boat ride with beautiful views of the coastline. Then look at the volcanic rock formations ahead, two towers rising out of the water. Between these towers is an incredible channel filled with colorful schools of fish as well as exciting marine life. Float on the waves above while you watch all the beautiful life below swimming through the channel. This truly is a once in a lifetime snorkeling experience with tropic fish and sea turtles passing alongside you, and eagle rays and hammerhead sharks swimming in the distance. The boat will take us around Kicker Rock to view the best snorkeling sites and wildlife observation sites.
After a day of sun, swim and snorkel, take some time to relax before enjoying a final evening and dinner in Puerto Moreno.
Day 6 - Tuesday (November 17)
Boat Taxi to Santa Cruz, Walk through El Chato Tortoise Reserve and the Lava Tunnels of the Santa Cruz Highlands
After an early morning boat taxi to Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, take some time to check in and relax at the hotel. Then an official Galapagos National Park guide will take everyone to El Chato Tortoise Reserve Ranch. Step deeper into the Giant Tortoise’s natural environment as an official guide leads the way through lush endemic Galapagos ferns to ponds were the Giant Tortoises congregate. The ranch is also one of the islands best restaurants, a hidden gem. After you’ve worked up an appetite on the short hike, enjoy a delicious lunch including freshly made empanadas and locally grown organic coffee – a favorite souvenir to take home.
Afterward take an impressive walk through the underground Lava Caves. See the incredible rock formations created in these amazing underground caverns. After the walk through the Lava Caves, our ride back to the hotel will take us into the evening. We will have time to relax or change before enjoying our first dinner in the lively and beautiful downtown area of Puerto Ayora.
Day 7 - Wednesday (November 18)
Yacht Tour to Bartolomé Island, Lava Field Hike, Penguin Viewing & Snorkeling After breakfast, leave for a ride through the highlands to Puerta Itabaca on the far North Side of the island. From this port, board a luxury Yacht for a comfortable ride to Bartolomé, an uninhabited island off of Santiago. The day will be filled with the best snorkeling in the Galapagos Islands, a walk through fields of cooled lava, and a ride along the shore looking for the endemic Galapagos Penguins. If you are lucky, the penguins, sea lions or iguanas might swim along by during your incredible snorkeling experience. Get back on board for a freshly prepared lunch while the boat travels back to Itabaca Canal. Relax on the boat and taxi rides back to the hotel. In the evening, share stories of the day’s incredible sites over a delicious meal.
Day 8 - Thursday (November 19)
Walk, swim & snorkel at Las Grietas and Tortuga Bay Beach
After so many amazing locations, you won’t believe we’ve saved the best for last! After lunch, head to Las Grietas. The guide will lead the way through volcanic terrain to a rocky crevasse that opens to a beautiful lagoon filled with crystal clear water. Everyone will appreciate a refreshing swim and amazing snorkeling in the peaceful cool turquoise waters. Then spend the afternoon at Tortuga Bay, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The walking path to the beach is about 1.5 miles and worth every step. While at the beach you can stroll along the pristine white sand while watching iguanas, herons or pelicans. Put on your snorkeling gear to see sea turtles, sea lions or manta rays and more colorful fish. The beauty of this bay will make it hard to leave. Catch a couple minutes of beautiful sunset views before hitting the trail back out of the park. Celebrate the time with your new lifelong friends over a dinner in Puerto Ayora. Day 9 - Friday (November 20)
Return to Quito, Farewell Dinner at Mountain Views Inn An early breakfast will allow an opportunity to check out some sights in the highlands on the way to the airport. As the taxi travel north, stop and see Los Gemelos or Twin Craters. Though they are called craters, these formations are actually the result of collapsed dormant volcanos. The Taxi will continue north to Itabaca Canal for a Ferry ride to the airport on Baltra Island. After our flight back to Quito, we will return to Mountain Views Inn for a delicious traditional Ecuadorian dinner. Day 10 – Saturday (November 21)
Departure
Unfortunately the trip comes to an end but leaving us with wonderful photos and memories. MVI will arrange airport transfers and look forward to having you, your family and your friends return.
Itinerary Changes: Itinerary details are established in advance and subject to change according to unforeseen factors and local conditions such as availability, weather, traffic or construction. In the event that conditions prevent an excursion your host and hotel staff will accommodate to the best of their ability a similar tour. If personal needs or preferences do not align with a certain day or portion of the trip, and the guides will do everything possible to accommodate or assist. However, changes will be the guest's responsibility and priority will be given to the planned itinerary. Random Events and Mountain Views Inn are not liable for itinerary changes. Meals: Breakfast and lunch will be provided daily. Guests will be responsible for their own dinner.
• Each morning there will be an American style breakfast provided.
• Moderate lunches and snacks will be provided throughout the tour including local treats such as Empanadas, freshly prepared Fish or Chicken with Rice & Vegetables, or traditional favorites like Pizza and Sandwiches.
• Each night there will be a Restaurant selected and recommended for guests. A mid-range priced restaurant will be selected based on menu options and reputation or reviews of quality. Dinner prices in the Galapagos range from $10-$25. Beer prices start at $3, and Wine or Cocktail prices start at $5. Guests will also have the flexibility to explore other locations at their discretion to suit their personal tastes or budget.
Meals may fluctuate according to the itinerary and seasonal availability. Vegetarian, Vegan and other dietary dietary restrictions or requirements can be accommodated, but must notify ahead of time. Please email info@EcuadorMVI.com by December 15th with any allergy or dietary needs.
~ Travel Preparation ~
Ecuador Travel Important Note
Proof of citizenship is mandatory. To enter Ecuador, foreign travelers need a passport that is valid for at least six months before arrival (May 12th 2015). If you do not have one or need a new one, U.S. guests may contact the State Department Passport Office in your area immediately or visit http://www.travel.sta....
Galapagos Island Registration
Pre-registration is required prior to check in for flight to the Galapagos Islands. All guests are responsible for their pre-registration, and instructions will be sent after final registration and payment is complete.
Galapagos Islands National Park Entrance
Upon your entrance to The Galapagos Islands National Park, you will be required to pay $110 in cash for your entrance and visitor card. Each guest must bring $110 in US Dollars for these fees.
Baggage
For the flights to and from the Galapagos there are weight restrictions for both checked and carry-on baggage. You may check 1 or 2 bags, with a total weight restriction of 48lbs. You may also bring 1 carry-on not weighting more than 18 lbs. Major airlines are frequently updating their policies regarding checked baggage and have added fees for traveling with luggage. We recommend that you visit your carrier’s website or call them directly for up-to-date information about baggage allowance, weight restrictions and fees. Please abide by the carry-on luggage restrictions. All liquids, gels and aerosols must be in three-ounce or smaller containers. Larger containers that are half-full or toothpaste tubes rolled up are not allowed. All items must be stored in a clear, 1 quart, zip lock bag.
Just in case your luggage is lost, we strongly recommend that you pack a change of clothing in your carry-on luggage. Do not pack money, travel documents, jewelry or medicine in your checked baggage. Hand carry these essential items!
Airport Transfers
Round trip airport transfer from Quito Mariscal Sucre Airport (UIO) are included in your package. Please send all flight information by October 12th so that your host can arrange transportation. Upon arrival you’ll pass immigration to claim your luggage and proceed through customs. After you exit the customs area, your airport transfer will be waiting with a sign saying RANDOM EVENTS– MVI, and your name. Travel Insurance
If you have not purchased travel insurance for this trip, there is still time to purchase, as it will cover any emergency medical needs or other covered concerns that may arise while you are overseas.
If you have purchased travel insurance make sure you take a copy of your policy and emergency and contact phone numbers with you in case you need assistance.
Log on to Meet your Travel Companions
Start meeting your fellow adventurers! RSVP on Meetup and attend the informational meetings for the Epic Ecuador and Galapagos Islands Vacation and get ready to HAVE FUN!
Travel Documents
Always carry a copy of the first page of your passport with your photo during your visit. Upon arrival you will have received a tourist card to fill out from the airline (prior to landing) at no additional charge, which should be carried along with your passport at all times. You will need your tourist card for trip extensions, passport checks and to depart the country. U.S. and Canadian citizens are not required to carry a Visa in Ecuador. In addition to your passport and tourist card you “officially” need a ticket out of the country, although they rarely ask to see it.
It is always a good idea when traveling to have a photocopy of the important pages of your passport kept separate, in case it is lost or stolen. Note that you are required by law to carry your passport with you at all times. On the back of the photocopy, it wouldn’t hurt to list emergency phone numbers, as well as the numbers listed on your traveler’s checks, airline tickets, credit cards, etc. It would also be wise to photocopy your airline ticket and insurance policies. Keep these copies in a separate place other than your security travel wallet. We recommend that you leave this information in a safe place in your room at the Inn. Chances are you won’t have to use any of these, but it sure makes life easier if something is lost. In addition, you should leave a photocopy of all of these documents, as well as your itinerary and any contact numbers you’re aware of at home with a friend or family member. Note that you should always lock your door in your hotel and ask about a safe for your important documents, such as credit cards and/or travelers checks. Emergency Contact Info
Travel Delays: If you are delayed and will miss a flight, contact RANDOM EVENTS so that we may communicate the new information to our local representatives.
US Embassy in Quito: Contact Information for the US Embassy in Quito, Ecuador. Ave. Avigiras E12-170 y Ave. Eloy Alfaro (next to SOLCA) Phone: 02-398-5000 Fax: 2-250-2052 E-mail: contacto.usembuio@state.gov
Tour Guide Address & Contact Info:
Mountain Views Inn Tumbaco, Ecuador
USA Contact: Robert Fernandez Bucheli, 516-851-7141
Ecuador Landline (with a USA Number): 516-587-6567
Ecuador Landline 011-59-322-204-6921
Ecuador Cell Number 011-593-99-502-3336 Communication
In the Galapagos Islands, cell phone coverage and internet is available but limited in certain areas.
Time
Mountain Views Inn, Ecuador Continental territory is on Eastern Standard Time (GMT -5). Galapagos Islands is on Central Standard Time (GMT -6). There is no Daylight Savings Time.
Electricity
110 volts, 60 cycles, AC. Plugs have two flat prongs, the same as in North America. Money/Exchange
The currency used throughout our trip is the US Dollar. Many locations do not accept major credit cards. If bringing a credit card, it is a good idea to notify your credit card provider that you will be making international charges to avoid potential problems.
For incidentals and small vendors you will need US dollars in small denominations, $1, $5, $10 and $20 bills that are not too old, worn or ripped. ATM machines are usually located in large cities, but are limited in smaller towns and rural areas. Traveler checks and Bank checks are not advised as it usually takes 1-2 hours to wait at an Ecuadorian bank to deliver the funds. Be sure to change traveler’s checks in Quito. Please note that debit cards from local community banks or credit unions without the Visa or Mastercard, typically do not work on the ATM machines. What to Pack and Suggested Attire
• A pair of sneakers or comfortable hiking boots
• A pair of shoes for restaurants (loafers, sandals, etc)
• A bathing suit and sandals or water shoes
• Lightweight, comfortable clothing for walking, hiking
• Warm jacket and long pants for cool evenings
• Lightweight raingear, poncho
• Sunglasses, sun block (30 or higher for face), sun hat, baseball cap or visor
• Toiletries: all your daily essentials
• Prescription medications: sufficient supply for the entire trip plus legible written prescription in case of loss. Keep medications in their original, labeled container. Always pack your medications in your carry-on bag!
• Over the counter medications: cold remedy, aspirin/pain reliever, antacid/stomach upset remedy, Band-Aids, anti-bacterial medication, Dramamine (if prone to motion sickness), Neosporin, anti-itch cream
• Eyeglasses, contacts, contact lens solution. You may want to bring along a written prescription for your eyewear in case of loss
• Mosquito repellant
• Ziploc baggies to carry wet clothing or to store camera/electronics in case of rain
• Binoculars and Personal snorkel gear, if desired
• An underwater case or protection for camera and video equipment, if desired
• GoPro or other water-proof cameras
• Optional: Pack old clothing, shoes, and toys to donate to the local church/school. Here’s a great tip if you are feeling generous: Pack a second bag with your donations and then use the empty bag to bring back the souvenirs and gifts you have collected.
We look forward to hosting you on your adventure vacation. If you have any questions before you go, please email info@QuietEvents.com or call (800) 833-9281.
Bon Voyage!
The Crew at Random Events
http://www.meetup.com...
(800) 833-9281
New York, NY 10019 - USA
Thursday, November 12 at 7:00 PM
Attending: 1
Details: http://www.meetup.com/RandomEvents/events/221148915/