With an Expert Naturalist Guide

Galapagos Private Journey

Ecuador

8 Days

From $99,000

Level 1+

Easiest

Overview

    Contact Us Download Itinerary

    Call 1-800-368-2794 or contact us for any questions

    Note: This trip must start on a Saturday

    Overview

    The Galápagos Islands are truly “a world unto themselves,” as Darwin wrote. Aboard your own private yacht with your naturalist guide, set off into Darwin's world for an active journey full of nature hikes, snorkeling, and wonder. Abundant marine life makes for fantastic snorkeling, and swimming with playful sea lions is an experience you'll never forget! A Private Journey allows you to choose your own dates and your traveling companions—and still enjoy the signature quality of a Wilderness Travel group trip. The Passion has two 7-night/8-day routes (Eastern Itinerary and Western Itinerary) operating Saturday to Saturday—or opt to combine both for a 15-day Ultimate Galápagos journey! Your route will depend on your travel dates. No matter which itinerary you choose, you'll enjoy hiking, snorkeling, optional sea kayaking, and the unforgettable experience of life aboard a romantic yacht. Each itinerary sees all the major species of the Galápagos. For any questions about the differences between these routes, please reach out to our team of Area Specialists.

    Arrive: Baltra, Galapagos

    Depart: Baltra, Galapagos

    Highlights

    • Travel in comfort and style aboard your own private luxury yacht
    • Enjoy an active journey full of nature hikes and wildlife wonders
    • Snorkel with playful sea lions and tiny Galápagos penguins

    Overview

      Contact Us Download Itinerary

      Call 1-800-368-2794 or contact us for any questions

      Itinerary

      Download Itinerary Expand All Days
      Fly to Baltra, board your yacht, and enjoy a Zodiac cruise at Black Turtle Cove, a large mangrove lagoon on the north coast of Santa Cruz Island where pelicans and herons roost on the branches while marine dwellers such as green sea turtles or golden rays may cruise right next to our Zodiac. You'll then navigate to Genovesa (Tower) Island for a walk among its huge colony of photogenic red-footed boobies perched in palo santo trees—the only member of the booby family to nest in trees. A hike to the top of Bartolomé offers breathtaking views of Pinnacle Rock, the Galápagos' most famous icon, and neighboring Santiago Island. We'll be on the lookout for tiny Galápagos penguins, the only penguin species that lives north of the equator.
      Rábida's red-sand beaches give way to a saltwater lagoon with greater flamingos and white-cheeked pintails. After a snorkeling excursion, head into the highlands of Santa Cruz Island to visit El Chato Tortoise Reserve and search for these giant creatures in the wild. You'll also visit the Charles Darwin Research Station's tortoise-breeding facility. Established in 1959, the research station works closely with the Galápagos National Park Service to protect the islands. Here you'll see giant tortoise species from several different islands.
      Step ashore on South Plaza (Plaza Sur), where huge seagoing marine iguanas roam the shores, and swallow-tailed gulls and red-billed tropicbirds rest. On Santa Fé Island, you'll have the chance to snorkel in the beautiful turquoise waters before heading to fascinating Española, the southernmost island in the archipelago, for a spectacular walk on Punta Suarez near marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and Galápagos sea lions. The huge waved albatross, with its seven-foot wingspan, are considered endemic not only to the Galápagos but also to Española. Disembark on Day 8 in Baltra, and en route to the airport, make a short stop at Twin Craters (Los Gemelos).
      Days 1-3: Santa Cruz Island / Darwin Station / Floreana
      Fly to Baltra and explore the lush Santa Cruz highlands to look for the giant Galápagos tortoises that gave the islands their name. Board your yacht, then visit the Charles Darwin Research Station's tortoise-breeding facility. Cruise to Floreana for a walk to a salt-water lagoon where pink flamingos wade. Snorkel at Devil's Crown, a volcanic rock formation, and visit historic Post Office Bay, where sailors once left letters to be picked up by the next passing ship.

      Days 4-5: Isabela Island / Urbina Bay / Tagus Cove / Fernandina
      Land at Punta Moreno on Isabela for a walk on a superb broken lava flow surrounded by giant shield volcanoes—some are still active! Visit Urbina Bay, with its black-sand beach where green sea turtles nest, and hike at Tagus Cove, once an anchorage for pirate boats, for views of the volcanic landscapes of Darwin Volcano and Darwin Lake, a saline lake that is saltier than the sea! Cross Bolivar Channel to Fernandina Island and land at Punta Espinosa, a narrow point of land extending out from the base of the Fernandina Volcano, the most active volcano in the Galápagos. During nesting season (the first half of the year), you may see tiny marine iguana hatchlings here, as well as flightless cormorants, land iguanas, and Galápagos penguins.

      Days 6-8: Santiago / Sullivan Bay / North Seymour
      At Santiago, visit magnificent Puerto Egas, where you might see Darwin's finches and the endemic Galápagos hawk. Enjoy idyllic Espumilla Beach, a great place for swimming and snorkeling and an important site for nesting marine turtles. Walk the recent lava flows of Sullivan Bay, with their fresh pahoehoe formations, then head to North Seymour to hike among prehistoric-looking marine iguanas and a colony of magnificent frigatebirds. Disembark at Baltra and transfer to the airport for ongoing flights.

      Dates & Pricing

      Best months to go: January to December. For our Private Journeys, you choose your own group and your preferred dates. Prices are per person and not guaranteed until services are confirmed. Contact us for availability, questions, or to book your adventure!

      Payment & Cancel Schedule

      At time of reservation: $2,500
      180 days prior to departure: $2,500
      90 days prior to departure: Balance

      Please note that this differs from our standard policy.

      Cancellation & Transfer Schedule

      Minimum fee: $15,000
      91-180 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost
      90 days or less: 100% of trip cost

      Please note that this differs from our standard policy.

      Included
      • Expert leadership of a Galapagos naturalist guide and on-board chef and crew
      • Accommodations aboard the yacht
      • All meals
      • Use of kayaks, snorkel gear (masks and fins), and wetsuits (shorties, 3mm)
      • All ground transportation and baggage handling from meeting until departure
      • All activities as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
      Not Included
      • Travel to and from the arrival and departure location as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
      • Additional hotel nights outside the trip's scheduled dates
      • Optional gratuities to guide or crew
      • Optional travel insurance
      • Other expenses of a personal nature (some alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc.)
      • Any activities and services described as an upgrade or optional

      Accommodations

      Scroll through our signature accommodations for this trip below. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.

      The Passion

      Days 1-7 (7 nights)

      If you want to experience the Galápagos in supreme comfort, a cruise aboard the 14-guest Passion is the way to go! Originally a private family yacht, she has been adapted for cruising the Galápagos in chic, sophisticated style. The original name of the Passion was Bellissima (“gorgeous” in Italian), and...

      Trip Leaders

      Wilderness Travel Trip Leaders have a passion and a joy for creating an unforgettable journey. We are extremely proud of them and the incredible travel experiences they make possible. For more information, including client comments about them and which specific trips they will be leading, please click on their profiles below.

      Bitinia Espinoza

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      Cecibel Guerrero

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      Carolina Larrea Angermeyer

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      Fernando Ortiz

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      Rafael Pesantes

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      Silvia Vargas

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      Patricia Stucki

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      What the Trip is Like

      The trip is rated Level 1+, Easy, according to our trip grading system. Trips that are rated 1 have optional walks and little elevation gain or loss. The + indicates that this trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of this level. Our Galápagos journey is appropriate for anyone in good health who is physically active and enjoys regular moderate walks and hikes, but please consider the following factors when choosing this trip:

      Review Trip Level Details

      The daily hikes are not long (up to 3 miles) but often involve uneven ground, either on dry lava, which can be quite sharp, on rocky trails with uneven surfaces, or on sandy beaches.

      Trips ashore are by Zodiac. Boarding the Zodiac involves walking down a gang-plank set of stairs and stepping onto the Zodiac while both the yacht and Zodiac are moving with the roll of the seas. A crew member on the Zodiac will reach for your hand to help steady you, but it can often feel tricky, depending on the amount of ocean swell. Passengers are required to wear life jackets when traveling in the Zodiacs.

      Shore landings are either "dry" (you step out of the Zodiac on to large rocks or a wooden pier) or "wet" (stepping out of the Zodiac into a foot or so of surf and wading to shore). A dry landing is occasionally tricky, especially on days when the seas are active and the rocks you step onto may be slippery. For a wet landing, you may be stepping from the Zodiac into surf that may be up to your knees or higher, so it is important that you have the agility for this. Of course, our boat staff will be on hand to assist with landings.

      Trip members should be able to swim and ideally have previous snorkeling experience. The itinerary includes snorkeling excursions on most days and snorkeling is a major attraction for any visit to the islands. Please consult our office (and your Trip Leader on the boat) with any concerns about swimming and snorkeling in the islands. Most snorkeling is in water between 10 to 40 feet deep, but if conditions allow, we may offer open-ocean snorkeling near an off-shore reef. These open-ocean snorkels are not suitable for first-time snorkelers or weak swimmers. Your Trip Leader accompanies the group on all snorkeling excursions and the Zodiac will attempt to stay close, should anyone wish to get out of the water. We do not, however, have staff members available to individually assist snorkelers. It is incumbent on each swimmer to keep track of his or her own whereabouts. Currents in Galápagos can be strong at some sites. You should only choose to swim and snorkel in places where you are completely comfortable. To snorkel, you slide off the side of the Zodiac into the water. Getting back in the Zodiac requires climbing up a small metal ladder attached to the side of the Zodiac. The boat man will help, but it is impossible for him to pull you out of the water -- you must be prepared to do most of the work under your own power.

      A variety of snorkeling equipment is available on board, but if you are a serious snorkeler, we highly recommend bringing your own snorkel, mask, and possibly fins to assure a proper fit. A proper fit of your mask is critical for allowing you good vision underwater. There is no scuba diving available on our Galápagos trips (our yachts are not set up for scuba diving but there are places in Puerto Ayora where diving is available if you would like to extend your trip). Depending on your personal tolerance for cold, you may not need a wetsuit, but most trip members prefer a wetsuit. Complimentary shorty wetsuits are available on board for your use. If you easily get cold, you may prefer to bring your own full-length wetsuit. Some people like to swim in lightweight leggings or in "skins" (lycra bodysuits sold at dive shops).

      You should understand that this is not a "large-ship cruise," but once you have adjusted to yacht living, you will find this to be one of the most pleasant journeys imaginable. The day usually starts with a delicious breakfast of fresh fruit, cereal, breads, eggs, fresh juice, and coffee or tea. This is often the time when your Trip Leader gives you a briefing on the day's schedule so you can plan your clothing and equipment. On return to the boat, there may be a chance to snorkel or swim before a multi-course lunch is served. During lunch, the yacht often transits to a new area, and in the later afternoon, you'll make a second landing, taking the Zodiac ashore for more exploration and hikes. Visitors must depart the islands by 6:00 pm. After a relaxing dinner, a wrap-up talk will be given by the Trip Leader.

      Extend Your Trip

      Client Testimonials

      "This was a fantastic experience for us and for the rest of the family. The crew was exemplary, and they made it a trip of a lifetime for all. We look forward to another similar trip, and we also look forward to several upcoming Wilderness Travel adventures."

      Alan B.

      Honolulu, HI

      "I have cruised extensively as a scuba diver and wilderness photographer, and I have never experienced a better crew than yours."

      Beth B.

      San Diego, CA

      "Everything about this trip was truly outstanding. Every day was a new adventure. I wouldn’t change anything and we had the best Trip Leader!"

      Beth S.

      Winter Garden, FL

      "This trip was a dream come true. The sailing was wonderful and the crew and guide couldn’t have been more helpful and fun to be around."

      Carol F.

      Farmington, CT

      "Thank you very much! You enabled a fabulous adventure and unforgettable experience. Each family member was delighted."

      Elizabeth T.

      Charlottesville, VA

      "A truly memorable bucket list trip! The entire group of seven of us agreed that it was the best vacation we had ever taken. We were as active as we wanted to be, and we always felt safe."

      Gregory B.

      Fairport, NY

      "Our guides were super! Knowledgeable, good spirits, great in relating to us."

      Kat K.

      San Francisco, CA

      "It was a trip of a lifetime. From ages 7-85, everyone had a blast. It truly could not have been any better!"

      Kate M.

      Nashville, TN

      "My family thought this was the best trip we had ever gone on. We saw everything we wanted to see. The activities and overall running of the trip were really spectacular. Every day was exciting, fun, relaxing, and just great."

      Lisa G.

      Chicago, IL

      "This trip was an amazing experience! Almost three weeks since we departed and I am still in awe of this magical trip. I'm not sure it can ever be topped."

      Patty G.

      Valhalla, NY

      "We had a group who ranged in age from 5 to 69. Everyone felt that this was an experience of a lifetime."

      Rebecca P.

      Vancouver, WA

      "Our guide interacted very well with both adults and children. He was very knowledgeable, passionate about his profession, always attentive, and willing to answer our questions. He made the tour very enjoyable and fun for everyone."

      Renee H.

      San Clemente, CA

      "The Trip Leader made our adventure exceptional and the captain and crew were also first rate."

      Rick H.

      San Marcos, TX

      "The crew was top shelf and took amazing care of our group. It was the Ritz Carlton with blue-footed boobies and sea lions!"

      Shannon S.

      Los Angeles, CA

      Book your trip today

      Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

      Itinerary

      Submit the form below to download itinerary

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      Trip Levels

      With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult—see descriptions below for explanations of each number. A plus (+) sign means the trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of that level. The detailed explanation of each trip—below the bar with the number rating—is perhaps more important, specifying activities, altitudes, hiking, and travel conditions. The Detailed Itinerary, available by download or mail, gives further information. Our Area Managers can also answer questions and guide you to the trip that best suits your interests.

      Level 1 – Easiest

      Non-camping journeys, optional walks, little elevation gain or loss.

      Level 2 – Easy to Moderate

      Hotel nights and/or safari-style camping, hikes of two to four hours on some days. Other physical activities are sometimes included, such as optional sea kayaking.

       

      Level 3 – Moderate

      Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Many of our hotel-based walking tours are in this category, as are our snorkeling adventures.

      Level 4 – Moderate to Strenuous

      Full-day hikes (4-6 hours), mountainous terrain, significant elevation gains and losses (hiking up or down as much as 3,000 feet) on many days. Altitudes no greater than about 10,000 feet.

       

      Level 5 – Strenuous

      Full-day hikes (4-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 12,000 feet are in this category.

      Level 6 – Very Strenuous

      Full-day hikes (5-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Most hikes take place at altitudes above 10,000 feet, with some days ascending as high as 18,000 feet.

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This afternoon, head to Punta Suarez for a spectacular walk on a trail lined with marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and Gal&aacute;pagos sea lions. You will also walk up to an amazing viewpoint of the island&apos;s famous blowhole, El Soplador, which shoots water as high as 75 feet in the air. Other major sights on Espa&ntilde;ola include one of the island&apos;s most spectacular birds, the huge waved albatross, with its seven-foot wingspan. The birds nest here from April through December. Waved albatross are considered endemic not only to the Gal&aacute;pagos but also to this island, where they exist in colonies of about 12,000 pairs.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":8,"DayTo":8,"Headline":"Santa Cruz Island \/ Disembark","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Land on Santa Cruz Island at the town of Puerto Ayora, and after breakfast, bid farewell to your Trip Leader and crew, and disembark. En route to the airport, make a short stop at Twin Craters (Los Gemelos), which are in fact not craters but magna domes that have collapsed. Continue to Baltra Airport and depart on homeward-bound flights.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":9,"DayTo":9,"Headline":"Baltra Island \/ Santa Cruz Island \/ Puerto Ayora \/ Darwin Station","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"On arrival at Baltra Island in the Gal&aacute;pagos, you are met by your naturalist guide for a drive into the lush Santa Cruz highlands, where you can look for Gal&aacute;pagos tortoises. Transfer to the small town of Puerto Ayora and board the yacht, which is docked in its harbor. After lunch aboard the yacht, visit the Charles Darwin Research Station&apos;s tortoise-breeding facility. Established in 1959, the Darwin Station works closely with the Gal&aacute;pagos National Park Service to protect the islands and surrounding marine reserve. The Darwin Station conducts research, assists other researchers within the park, and provides environmental education to communities and schools within the islands. At the Fausto Llerena Tortoise Breeding Center here, you&apos;ll see tortoises from different islands. The tortoise pens are divided according to the tortoises&apos; ages, from eggs to adults. Overnight aboard yacht.","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":10,"DayTo":10,"Headline":"Floreana Island \/ Devil&apos;s Crown \/ Black Beach","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Cruise to Floreana, with its myriad volcanic cones and fascinating human history, and visit Punta Cormorant for a walk to a lagoon where elegant pink flamingos wade in the shallows. You may visit Devil&apos;s Crown, an offshore remnant of a volcanic crater that&apos;s a haven for a variety of tropical fish, and sometimes rays and sea turtles. In the afternoon,&nbsp; visit Floreana&apos;s Black Beach, with its lava sand and sea lion colony, where you will learn about the intriguing human history of the island and its first inhabitants. Head into the highlands to visit the Asilo de la Paz, the freshwater spring, as well as the caves that served as pirate hideouts and where the first settlers lived. Floreana is also well known for the mysterious disappearances of some of the later settlers in the 1930s, including the Baroness Von Wagner de Bousquet.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":11,"DayTo":11,"Headline":"Post Office Bay \/ Isabela Island","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"In the morning, visit Floreana&apos;s Post Office Bay, with its historic Post Office Barrel, where in the 18th century, sailors left letters to be posted by passing ships. After the visit, return to the yacht and head out on an afternoon sail to Isabela Island. Along the way, there may be a chance of seeing whales or dolphins swimming along with the yacht&mdash;a truly serendipitous moment not possible from the larger cruise ships. This evening, enjoy a sunset dinner with extraordinary views of Isabela's dramatic volcanic landscape.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":12,"DayTo":12,"Headline":"Punta Moreno \/ Urbina Bay","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Isabela was originally six islands, each with an active volcano. Extensive lava flows joined together to form what is today the largest island in the Gal&aacute;pagos. Five of these volcanoes are still active and contribute to Isabela&apos;s dramatic scenery and spectacular coastline of basaltic bluffs. Walk on Punta Moreno&apos;s superb broken lava flow surrounded by giant shield volcanoes. There are flamingos, gallinules, and you may even spot cormorants and Gal&aacute;pagos penguins. After lunch, visit Urbina Bay, with its black sand beach, a nesting site for green sea turtles. The bay was a site of remarkable tectonic activity in 1954 when miles of coastal seabed was dramatically uplifted 15 feet. Scramble along the rocky coast to see the large coral heads and other marine forms stranded after the uplift. As you hike over varied terrain, observe large land iguanas, a variety of endemic plants, and sometimes giant tortoises.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":13,"DayTo":13,"Headline":"Tagus Cove \/ Fernandina Island","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Enjoy a short morning hike at Tagus Cove, once an anchorage for pirate boats. At the top of the cliff you can view the volcanic landscapes of Darwin Volcano and Darwin Lake, a saline lake that is saltier than the sea! Setting sail at lunchtime, cross Bolivar Channel to Fernandina Island, one of the world&apos;s most unspoiled places, landing at Punta Espinosa, a narrow point of land extending out from the base of the Fernandina Volcano, the most active volcano in the Gal&aacute;pagos. During nesting season (the first half of the year), you may see marine iguana hatchlings here, so tiny they can easily be confused with lava lizards. You should also find flightless cormorants, land iguanas, and Gal&aacute;pagos penguins.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":14,"DayTo":14,"Headline":"Santiago Island \/ Buccaneers Cove \/ Espumilla Beach","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Cruising to Santiago (James) Island, visit Puerto Egas, a magnificent stretch of coastline where erosion in the lava has formed pools, caves, and inlets that host a great variety of wildlife. Later, take a panga ride around Buccaneers Cove, a safe haven for pirates, sailors, and whalers during the 18th and 19th centuries. Idyllic Espumilla Beach on the island&apos;s northern coast is a great place for swimming and snorkeling.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":15,"DayTo":15,"Headline":"Sullivan Bay \/ North Seymour Island","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"In the morning, you will walk the recent lava flows of Sullivan Bay, with their fresh pahoehoe formations. Wildlife seen may include Gal&aacute;pagos penguins and herons. After lunch, cruise to North Seymour Island for a hike among prehistoric-looking marine iguanas. North Seymour is a small, uplifted island just north of Baltra with abundant sea lions and blue-footed boobies.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":16,"DayTo":16,"Headline":"Baltra Island \/ Disembark","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Arrive in Baltra, bid farewell to your naturalist guide and yacht crew, and disembark. Transfer to the airport for departure on homeward-bound flights.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":1,"DayTo":3,"Headline":"Black Turtle Cover \/ Genovesa (Tower) Island \/ Bartolom&eacute; Island (Eastern Islands Itinerary)","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body>Fly to Baltra, board your yacht, and enjoy a Zodiac cruise at Black Turtle Cove, a large mangrove lagoon on the north coast of Santa Cruz Island where pelicans and herons roost on the branches while marine dwellers such as green sea turtles or golden rays may cruise right next to our Zodiac. You'll then navigate to Genovesa (Tower) Island for a walk among its huge colony of photogenic red-footed boobies perched in palo santo trees&mdash;the only member of the booby family to nest in trees. A hike to the top of Bartolom&eacute; offers breathtaking views of Pinnacle Rock, the Gal&aacute;pagos' most famous icon, and neighboring Santiago Island. We'll be on the lookout for tiny Gal&aacute;pagos penguins, the only penguin species that lives north of the equator.<\/body>","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true},{"DayFrom":4,"DayTo":5,"Headline":"R&aacute;bida Island \/ Santa Cruz Highlands \/ Charles Darwin Research Station","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"R&aacute;bida&apos;s red-sand beaches give way to a saltwater lagoon with greater flamingos and white-cheeked pintails. After a snorkeling excursion, head into the highlands of Santa Cruz Island to visit El Chato Tortoise Reserve and search for these giant creatures in the wild. You&apos;ll also visit the Charles Darwin Research Station&apos;s tortoise-breeding facility. Established in 1959, the research station works closely with the Gal&aacute;pagos National Park Service to protect the islands. Here you&apos;ll see giant tortoise species from several different islands.","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true},{"DayFrom":6,"DayTo":8,"Headline":"South Plaza \/ Santa F&eacute; Island \/ Espa&ntilde;ola \/ Los Gemelos","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"<body>Step ashore on South Plaza (Plaza Sur), where huge seagoing marine iguanas roam the shores, and swallow-tailed gulls and red-billed tropicbirds rest. On Santa F&eacute; Island, you'll have the chance to snorkel in the beautiful turquoise waters before heading to fascinating Espa&ntilde;ola, the southernmost island in the archipelago, for a spectacular walk on Punta Suarez near marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and Gal&aacute;pagos sea lions. The huge waved albatross, with its seven-foot wingspan, are considered endemic not only to the Gal&aacute;pagos but also to Espa&ntilde;ola. Disembark on Day 8 in Baltra, and en route to the airport, make a short stop at Twin Craters (Los Gemelos).<\/body><meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/>\n","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true}],"itinpdf":[{"ItinYear":"2024","docType":"1","FileName":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/portal\/galapagos-private-journey-itinerary-2024.pdf"},{"ItinYear":"2025","docType":"1","FileName":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/portal\/galapagos-private-journey-itinerary-2025.pdf"},{"ItinYear":"2024","docType":"2","FileName":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/portal\/galapagos-private-journey-predeparture.pdf"},{"ItinYear":"2025","docType":"2","FileName":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/portal\/galapagos-private-journey-predeparture.pdf"}],"whattoexpect":[{}],"highlights":[{"DisplayOrder":1,"HighlightText":"","Description":"Travel in comfort and style aboard your own private luxury 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Room","VendorName":"Wyndham Quito Airport","CustomFields":{"Custom_slug":"wyndham-quito-airport","Custom_Location":"Quito"}}],"inclusions":[{"DisplaySequence":1,"Type":"E","Description":"Travel to and from the arrival and departure location as indicated in Detailed Itinerary","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":2,"Type":"E","Description":"Additional hotel nights outside the trip's scheduled dates","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":3,"Type":"E","Description":"Optional gratuities to guide or crew","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":4,"Type":"E","Description":"Optional travel insurance","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":5,"Type":"E","Description":"Other expenses of a 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History","Primary":0},{"ActivityID":228,"Name":"Small Ship Cruising","Primary":0},{"ActivityID":237,"Name":"Family Trips","Primary":0}],"guides":[{"GuideID":850793,"First_Name":"Bitinia","Last_Name":"Espinoza","BioShort":"Bitinia Espinoza has been guiding groups to the Gal&aacute;pagos and throughout Ecuador since 1991. She graduated from the University of Guayaquil with studies in natural history. Her travels on the lecture circuit on behalf of the Gal&aacute;pagos National Park and the Charles Darwin Research Station have taken her to the US and other regions. Bitinia lives in&nbsp;Quito with her two daughters and three grandchildren.","BioLong":"Bitinia Espinoza, better known as Biti, is a native of the Gal&aacute;pagos&nbsp;whose family has lived in the islands since the 1930s. She graduated from the University of Guayaquil with studies in natural history and has been guiding groups in the Gal&aacute;pagos&nbsp;and throughout Ecuador since 1991. Her travels on the lecture circuit on behalf of the Gal&aacute;pagos National Park and the Charles Darwin Research Station have taken her to the US and other regions. She loves training young naturalists and applying her knowledge for the benefit of the future of the Gal&aacute;pagos. Biti enjoys kayaking, snorkeling, and professional photography (she has led photo safari trips several times), and lives in Quito with her two daughters and three grandchildren.&nbsp;"},{"GuideID":851087,"First_Name":"Cecibel","Last_Name":"Guerrero","BioShort":"When you grow up in one of the most diverse and extraordinary places on earth, it seems only right to invest your time and energy in keeping that place special, and Cecibel &ldquo;Ceci&rdquo; Guerrero is no exception. Originally from Ecuador, Ceci guided in the Gal&aacute;pagos from 1993 to 2001. After taking a short break to start a family, she returned to the Gal&aacute;pagos in 2008 to continue her work, obtaining her license as a Level III Naturalist Guide by the Gal&aacute;pagos National Park Service and the Charles Darwin Research Station.","BioLong":"When you grow up in one of the most diverse and extraordinary places on earth, it seems only right to invest your time and energy in keeping that place special, and Cecibel &ldquo;Ceci&rdquo; Guerrero is no exception. Originally from Ecuador, Ceci guided in the Gal&aacute;pagos from 1993 to 2001. After taking a short break to start a family, she returned to the Gal&aacute;pagos in 2008 to continue her work as a guide in the place she loves the most. She obtained her license as a Level III Naturalist Guide by the Gal&aacute;pagos National Park Service and the Charles Darwin Research Station, and in 2015, she also became a certified Guide Trainer in Environmental Interpretation. Ceci is an avid snorkeler and scuba diver, and has a real enthusiasm for sharing this magical place with our guests. &ldquo;I feel blessed and honored to work in one of the most pristine places on earth,&rdquo; she says."},{"GuideID":851085,"First_Name":"Carolina","Last_Name":"Larrea Angermeyer","BioShort":"As a member of the pioneering Angermeyer family, Carolina has a long heritage in the world of ecotourism and conservation in the Gal&aacute;pagos. With a degree in Biology, Carolina has been a guide in the Gal&aacute;pagos since 2008, earning her guiding license from the Gal&aacute;pagos National Park. Among the work she&apos;s done in the area&mdash;including interpretation for protected areas training courses, scientific research of flightless cormorants with the Charles Darwin Foundation, and environmental education programs&mdash;she was the scientific advisor for one of the episodes in the BBC documentary South Pacific. She currently resides in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island and speaks Spanish and English, as well as some German.","BioLong":"As a member of the pioneering Angermeyer family, Carolina has a long heritage in the world of ecotourism and conservation in the Gal&aacute;pagos. With a degree in Biology, Carolina has been a guide in the Gal&aacute;pagos since 2008, earning her guiding license from the Gal&aacute;pagos National Park. Among the work she&apos;s done in the area&mdash;including interpretation for protected areas training courses, scientific research of flightless cormorants with the Charles Darwin Foundation, and environmental education programs&mdash;she was the scientific advisor for one of the episodes in the BBC documentary South Pacific. She currently resides in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island and speaks Spanish and English, as well as some German."},{"GuideID":851255,"First_Name":"Fernando","Last_Name":"Ortiz","BioShort":"","BioLong":"Fernando Ortiz first came to the Gal&aacute;pagos in 1997 as a scuba instructor, also becoming part of Ecuador&apos;s first underwater video production team. Joining the Gal&aacute;pagos National Park Service, he managed various marine conservation projects around the islands, then later worked for the non-profit Conservation International as coordinator of their Gal&aacute;pagos program. He has also been race team manager of the Gal&aacute;pagos Challenge, the largest annual athletic event in the islands. As a full-time naturalist guide for the last decade, Fernando takes delight in introducing visitors to the famous wildlife, in interpreting the natural processes that take place on land and underwater in the islands, and in ensuring that visitors return with a true appreciation of these magical islands."},{"GuideID":851296,"First_Name":"Rafael","Last_Name":"Pesantes","BioShort":"Rafael Pesantes is a native Gal&aacute;pagueno, with more than three decades of experience as both a certified Gal&aacute;pagos guide and world naturalist. His achievements are inspiring, including the Prince Henri Award for Excellence by the Charles Darwin Research Station and HRH Crown Prince Henri of Luxembourg Award for excellence in guiding. Along with local qualifications, he led a joint research project with California&apos;s Point Reyes Bird Observatory in the Farallon Islands on local bird life. He is an excellent guide who loves sharing his passion for the Gal&aacute;pagos. \"The Gal&aacute;pagos is not just my home, it's where my heart is,\" he says. \"I love helping&nbsp;people discover&nbsp;the magic and beauty of this archipielago, so they return home with lasting memories.\"","BioLong":"Rafael Pesantes is a native Gal&aacute;pagueno, with more than three decades of experience as both a certified Gal&aacute;pagos guide and world naturalist. His achievements are inspiring, including the Prince Henri Award for Excellence by the Charles Darwin Research Station and HRH Crown Prince Henri of Luxembourg Award for excellence in guiding. Along with local qualifications, he led a joint research project with California&apos;s Point Reyes Bird Observatory in the Farallon Islands on local bird life. He is an excellent guide who loves sharing his passion for the Gal&aacute;pagos. \"The Gal&aacute;pagos is not just my home, it's where my heart is,\" he says. \"I love helping&nbsp;people discover&nbsp;the magic and beauty of this archipielago, so they return home with lasting memories.\""},{"GuideID":850524,"First_Name":"Silvia","Last_Name":"Vargas","BioShort":"Silvia Vargas is in love with the Gal&aacute;pagos Islands and has been since high school, when she first visited from her hometown of Guayaquil, Ecuador. Her passion for the islands drew her back to live in the Gal&aacute;pagos where she works as a certified naturalist&mdash;the perfect job for someone with such deep knowledge and a generous spirit. Exploring the same islands over and over?&mdash;it&apos;s a dream for this Trip Leader. &ldquo;The wildlife here has to adapt to weather so variable,&rdquo; Silvia notes, &ldquo;it&apos;s fun to see how each species figures it out.\"","BioLong":"Silvia Vargas is in love with the Gal&aacute;pagos Islands and has been since high school, when she first visited from her hometown of Guayaquil, Ecuador. Her passion for the islands drew her back to live in the Gal&aacute;pagos where she works as a certified naturalist&mdash;the perfect job for someone with such deep knowledge and a generous spirit. Exploring the same islands over and over?&mdash;it&apos;s a dream for this Trip Leader. &ldquo;The wildlife here has to adapt to weather so variable,&rdquo; Silvia notes, &ldquo;it&apos;s fun to see how each species figures it out.\" With a university degree in Linguistics and time spent living in Europe, Silvia is fluent in both German and English. Her passions include ecological design for both furniture and homes. She also hopes to work with Ecuadorian people to raise their awareness and stewardship of the local environment. As Silvia explains, \"Understanding nature has allowed me to understand human nature better. I feel blessed to work in the Gal&aacute;pagos because on almost every trip, we swim with dolphins and sea lions! And sometimes even whales! How lucky we are!&rdquo;"},{"GuideID":851086,"First_Name":"Patricia","Last_Name":"Stucki","BioShort":"Patricia &ldquo;Pati&rdquo; Stucki was born and raised in St. Gallen, a town in the eastern part of Switzerland. As a journalist for the Swiss news agency, Pati developed a genuine fascination for travel and natural history, and her journeys took her to Asia, Australia, and Central America before finally landing in the Gal&aacute;pagos in 1996, where the ocean and islands fully captured her awe. Her work as a naturalist and dive guide in the islands is fueled by her passion for the flora and fauna.","BioLong":"Patricia &ldquo;Pati&rdquo; Stucki was born and raised in St. Gallen, a town in the eastern part of Switzerland. Her interest and commitment to the Gal&aacute;pagos began at an early age&mdash;she once raised funds for the archipelago by selling Swiss chocolates. As a journalist for the Swiss news agency, Pati developed a genuine fascination for travel and natural history, and her journeys took her to Asia, Australia, and Central America before finally landing in the Gal&aacute;pagos in 1996, where the ocean and islands fully captured her awe. Her work as a naturalist and dive guide in the islands is fueled by her passion for the flora and fauna.&nbsp;&ldquo;One of the things I love most is to explore the underwater world and show people the part of Galapagos that Charles Darwin never got to see,&rdquo; she says. When not guiding, she enjoys gardening, photography, and tending to her organic cocoa plantation in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island (ask her about her &ldquo;Dark Shark&rdquo; chocolates!). She is fluent in Spanish, English, German, and French."}],"guestreviews":[{"GuestNames":"Alan B.","GuestLocation":"Honolulu, HI","GuestReview":"This was a fantastic experience for us and for the rest of the family. The crew&#160;was exemplary, and they made it a trip of a lifetime for all. We look forward to another similar trip, and we also look forward to several upcoming Wilderness Travel adventures."},{"GuestNames":"Beth B.","GuestLocation":"San Diego, CA","GuestReview":"I have cruised extensively as a scuba diver and wilderness photographer, and I have never experienced a better crew than yours."},{"GuestNames":"Beth S.","GuestLocation":"Winter Garden, FL","GuestReview":"Everything about this trip was truly outstanding. Every day was a new adventure. I wouldn&#8217;t change anything and we had the best Trip Leader!"},{"GuestNames":"Carol F.","GuestLocation":"Farmington, CT","GuestReview":"This trip was a dream come true. The sailing was wonderful and the crew and guide couldn&#8217;t have been more helpful and fun to be around."},{"GuestNames":"Elizabeth T.","GuestLocation":"Charlottesville, VA","GuestReview":"Thank you very much! You enabled a fabulous adventure and unforgettable experience. Each family member was delighted."},{"GuestNames":"Gregory B.","GuestLocation":"Fairport, NY","GuestReview":"A truly memorable bucket list trip! The entire group of seven of us agreed that it was the best vacation we had ever taken. We were as active as we wanted to be, and we always felt safe."},{"GuestNames":"Kat K.","GuestLocation":"San Francisco, CA","GuestReview":"Our guides were super! Knowledgeable, good spirits, great in relating to us."},{"GuestNames":"Kate M.","GuestLocation":"Nashville, TN","GuestReview":"It was a trip of a lifetime. From ages 7-85, everyone had a blast. It truly could not have been any better!"},{"GuestNames":"Lisa G.","GuestLocation":"Chicago, IL","GuestReview":"My family thought this was the best trip we had ever gone on. We saw everything we wanted to see. The activities and overall running of the trip were really spectacular. Every day was exciting, fun, relaxing, and just great."},{"GuestNames":"Patty G.","GuestLocation":"Valhalla, NY","GuestReview":"This trip was an amazing experience! Almost three weeks since we departed and I am still in awe of this magical trip. I'm not sure it can ever be topped."},{"GuestNames":"Rebecca P.","GuestLocation":"Vancouver, WA","GuestReview":"We had a group who ranged in age from 5 to 69. Everyone felt that this was an experience of a lifetime."},{"GuestNames":"Renee H.","GuestLocation":"San Clemente, CA","GuestReview":"Our guide interacted very well with both adults and children. He was very knowledgeable, passionate about his profession, always attentive, and willing to answer our questions. He made the tour very enjoyable and fun for everyone."},{"GuestNames":"Rick H.","GuestLocation":"San Marcos, TX","GuestReview":"The Trip Leader made our adventure exceptional and the captain and crew were also first rate."},{"GuestNames":"Shannon S.","GuestLocation":"Los Angeles, CA","GuestReview":"The crew was top shelf and took amazing care of our group. It was the Ritz Carlton with blue-footed boobies and sea lions!"}],"Extensions":[{"TripID":10247,"ExtensionTripID":10259,"Trip_Code":"CUSCOEXT","Trip_Name":"Cusco and Machu Picchu Extension"},{"TripID":10247,"ExtensionTripID":10263,"Trip_Code":"NAPO","Trip_Name":"Amazon Rainforest Extension: Napo Wildlife Center"},{"TripID":10247,"ExtensionTripID":10486,"Trip_Code":"QUITOEXT","Trip_Name":"Quito Extension"},{"TripID":10247,"ExtensionTripID":10264,"Trip_Code":"ZULETA","Trip_Name":"Hacienda Zuleta and Otavalo Extension"}],"SimilarTrips":[{"TripID":10247,"SimilarTripID":10232,"Trip_Code":"PJCOSTA","Trip_Name":"Costa Rica Private Journey"},{"TripID":10247,"SimilarTripID":10508,"Trip_Code":"PJECUADO","Trip_Name":"Ecuador Private Journey"},{"TripID":10247,"SimilarTripID":10414,"Trip_Code":"GALADVPAS","Trip_Name":"Galapagos Adventure aboard the Passion"},{"TripID":10247,"SimilarTripID":11164,"Trip_Code":"ULTGALPASE","Trip_Name":"Ultimate Galapagos aboard the Passion: Eastern and Western Islands"}],"Specialists":[{}],"TripSegments":[{"VendorID":73328,"ProductID":83564,"SelectType":"Optional","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Extension","Vendor":"Peru Runa Travel","Address1":"Calle Esperanza 184 #306","Address2":"","City":"Miraflores Lima","State":"","Postal":"","Product":"Pre-Trip Extra Services: Cusco and Machu Picchu Extension","Day":-6,"Sequence":3,"Duration":7,"PropertyDescription":"","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":73396,"ProductID":84213,"SelectType":"Optional","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Extension","Vendor":"Tropic Eco","Address1":"Av. 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You can learn more about this worthy project on\nyour online portal. Wilderness Travel actively collaborates with the environmental organizations and communities of the special places we visit, and we invite you to join us in supporting this effort. If you would prefer to opt out, just let us know.<\/p>","Custom_Final_Docs_Letter_Send_List":"","Custom_Sales_Email_-_Trip_Sales_Points":"","Custom_Sales_Email_-_TP_Trip_Sales_Points":"<div><br><\/div>Thank you very much for your message and interest in our Galapagos program!<br><br>\nWT has been welcoming travelers to the Galapagos for more than 45 years&mdash;our active itineraries, small yachts, and expert guides offer a wildlife and natural history experience that is simply unparalleled. We would love to have you join us!<br><br>\nAttached please find our 2024 Galapagos itineraries, with more details on the yacht, departure dates, weather, flight logistics, trip costs, terms and conditions, and our optional extensions to Ecuador's highlands, the Amazon rainforest, and Machu Picchu.<br><ul><li>\nGalapagos Adventure aboard the Passion<\/li><li>\nUltimate Galapagos aboard the Passion<\/li><li>\nGalapagos Private Journey aboard the Passion<\/li><li>\nForthcoming: Galapagos Adventure aboard the Coral II - 2025<\/li><\/ul><br>\nYou can also explore a wealth of additional information&mdash;and inspiration!&mdash;for WT's Galapagos adventures here:<br><ul><li>\nWT Webpage: <a href=\"https:\/\/wildernesstravel.829dev.com\/latin-america\/galapagos\/\">Experience the Galapagos Islands<\/a><\/li><li>WT Video: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=VLRqxiDTYN4\">Galapagos Islands Cruise<\/a><\/li><li>WT Galapagos Brochure 2024<\/li><li>\nWT Travel Blog: <a href=\"http:\/\/photoblog.wildernesstravel.com\/?s=galapagos\">Galapagos<\/a><\/li><\/ul><br>\nPlease reach out in the meantime with any questions, by phone 800-368-2794 or by email.<br><br>\nWe look forward to planning with you!","Custom_Sales_Email_-_Payment_Terms":"","Custom_Sales_Email_-_Region":"","Custom_Sales_Email_-_Region_Sales_Points":"","Custom_Emergency_Evac_Insurance":"","Custom_Welcome_Letter_Reading_List":"<strong>Reading List:<\/strong> Elevate your travel experience by delving into this <a href=\"https:\/\/bookshop.org\/lists\/wilderness-travel-galapagos\">curated collection of books<\/a> tailored to your upcoming adventure.","Custom_Valid_Passport_Alternative":"","Custom_Visa":"","Custom_FB_Before_You_Go_-_MISC_1":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-24T15:46:04 --><p><strong>WEATHER NOTE:<\/strong> Temperatures in the Galapagos are higher than average (El Nino pattern). Our guides recommend the following, to help stay cool and healthy: <\/p><p><br \/>- Plenty of sunscreen, lightweight clothing with UPF (long sleeves and long pants)<br \/>- Quick-dry &quot;Cooling&quot; towel or buff to wet and wear around your neck.<br \/>- Insulated water bottle or Camelbak (Minimum 1 Liter\/32oz) <br \/>- Lycra skin-suit (or rash guard\/lycra tops and bottoms) for sun protection while snorkeling if your skin is sun-sensitive. <br \/>- Electrolyte powder (Nuun,hydration tablets, Emergen-C, Gatorade, etc) <br \/><\/p>","Custom_FB_Before_You_Go_-_MISC_2":"","Custom_Luggage_Requirements":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-24T15:46:47 --><p><strong>LUGGAGE &amp; WEIGHT LIMIT: <\/strong>On the Galapagos flights, each traveler can have one checked bag (not to exceed 50lbs.), one carry-on bag (not to exceed 22lbs.) and one personal item. There is a fee for checked luggage that exceeds 50lbs. Due to limited space in our vehicles and the boat cabins, please limit your luggage to one soft sided suitcase, duffle, or roller bag and a daypack.<\/p>","Custom_Carry-On":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-24T15:47:01 --><p><strong>CARRY-ON: <\/strong>Valuable or essential items, such as camera equipment, binoculars, and prescription medications should be hand carried on your flights to avoid loss or damage. If you choose to bring hiking poles, they must be packed in your checked luggage as they are not permitted in carry-on bags. <\/p>","Custom_Hiking_Poles":"","Custom_Daypack":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-24T15:47:20 --><p><strong>DAY PACK:<\/strong> Your daypack should be large enough to carry a rain jacket, water bottle, camera, and other items you may want on excursions. <strong>Please arrive in the Galapagos ready to jump into activities! <\/strong>Clothing recommendation: long pants and closed-toe shoes, with a rain jacket handy.<\/p>","Custom_Vaccination_Card":"","Custom_FB_Packing_Reminders_-_MISC_1":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-24T15:47:54 --><p><strong>AMENITIES:<\/strong> Please review the current Pre-Departure Information with updated details on biodegradable toiletries and other amenities provided aboard the boat. Please be sure to bring your own &quot;reef-safe&quot; sunscreen. <\/p><p>&nbsp;<\/p><p><strong>LAUNDRY: <\/strong>There is no laundry service onboard. You can hand wash or bring enough clothes for the cruise. You will not need much in the islands!<\/p>","Custom_FB_Additional_Notes_-_MISC_1":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-24T15:48:56 --><p><strong>PHONE CALLS: <\/strong>We strongly recommend <a href=\"https:\/\/www.whatsapp.com\/\">WhatsApp<\/a> - please download the app on your phone in advance and enter your family contacts and the WT local\/emergency contacts for easy (and free) communication abroad.<\/p><p><br \/>Otherwise, when dialing an Ecuadorian phone number from a foreign phone (including your cell phone), you must first dial your country's international dialing code, symbolized by the + symbol, then the Ecuadorian country code (593).<\/p><p><br \/>International dialing code for the United States: 011<\/p><p><br \/>When dialing an Ecuadorian phone number from an Ecuadorian phone, replace the Ecuadorian country code (593) with 0 before dialing the rest of the number. You do not need to use an international dialing code.<br \/><\/p>","Custom_FB_Additional_Notes_-_MISC_2":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-24T15:49:13 --><p><strong>MONEY &amp; TIPPING: <\/strong>Credit cards are accepted aboard the boat for your bar bill and any purchases, but gratuities are to be paid in cash. Please refer to the Pre-Departure Information for complete details and guidelines. <\/p>","Custom_Arrival":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-24T15:51:35 --><p><strong>ARRIVING IN ECUADOR<\/strong><br \/>Upon arrival to Ecuador, proceed to immigration and present your passport. Continue to baggage claim to collect your luggage. <\/p><p>&nbsp;<\/p><p><strong>ARRIVAL TRANSFER<\/strong><br \/>All guests have arranged arrival transfers and hotel reservations on their own.<\/p><p>&nbsp;<\/p><p><strong>DEPARTING FOR THE GALAPAGOS<\/strong><br \/>Our local representative will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the airport for your flight to the Galapagos. Your air tickets and pre-paid Transit Control Card will be provided at this time. Please refer to your Extra Services Confirmation (ESC) for details. Reminder: allow enough time for breakfast and checkout before pickup. <\/p><p>&nbsp;<\/p><p><strong>TRANSFER AGENTS<\/strong><br \/>Guayaquil - WIM THEUNIS (+593 98 481 0295)<br \/>Quito - WENDY MEJIA (+593 99 117 2171)<\/p><p>&nbsp;<\/p><p><strong>ARRIVING IN THE GALAPAGOS<\/strong><br \/>Upon arrival at the Baltra Airport in the Galapagos, have your passport ready and proceed through immigration. Your Galapagos National Park fee has been prepaid. Once through immigration you will proceed to baggage claim to collect your luggage. Your Galapagos Naturalist Guide and transfer agent will be waiting for you at baggage claim, holding a sign that says Beluga. You will be escorted from the airport to the boat. <br \/><br \/><\/p>","Custom_Arrival-_Meeting_Place":"","Custom_Arrival_Transfer":"","Custom_Departure":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-24T15:51:50 --><p><strong>RETURNING TO MAINLAND ECUADOR<\/strong><br \/>You will disembark the Beluga and receive a transfer to the Baltra Airport for your flight back to mainland Ecuador. <br \/><\/p>","Custom_Extra_Services":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-24T15:46:27 --><p><strong>ESC: Your Extra Services Confirmation (ESC)<\/strong> includes your international and internal flight details, transfers, hotel arrangements, and any extra touring or extensions for your pre-cruise and post-cruise travel. Exact transfer pickup times will be re-confirmed to you locally. Carefully review your ESC and double check that your international flight details are current, as flight schedule changes are very common.<\/p>","Custom_Contact_Information_for_Friends_and_Family":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-24T15:52:43 --><p>If friends or family wish to contact you during the trip, we encourage them to call, text, or email you directly. If they are unable to reach you directly, please instruct them to call our office in Berkeley, California, and we will get a message to you as soon as possible. If they need to reach you outside of our office hours, we ask that they reach out to our local contact (information listed below) and also leave a message with our office, so that we can follow up with our team on the ground.<\/p><p>&nbsp;<\/p><p><strong>INTERNET &amp; CELL RECEPTION<\/strong><br \/>Due to the remote location, cell phone service and WiFi are not available during the cruise. The Galapagos Islands notorious for week signal and spotty connectivity. You will likely be able to send a text or email when you are in the town of Puerto Ayora, but when you are on the boat there will be little-to-no possibility of sending or receiving data. We recommend having friends and family members contact our office should they need to get a message to you. We can deliver emergency messages on board via the Captain's radio.<\/p><p>&nbsp;<\/p><p><strong>EMERGENCY MESSAGES TO THE BOAT<\/strong><br \/>If family or friends need to contact you while you are out of service\/aboard the boat, please have them contact the Wilderness Travel office. <strong>If it is outside our office hours, please advise them to contact Mar&iacute;a Mercedes Larrea \/ +593 9 9 117 2181 \/ headoffice@enchantedexpeditions.com<\/strong><br \/><\/p>","Custom_Outfitter_Contacts_Left":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-24T15:53:03 --><p><strong>ENCHANTED EXPEDITIONS<\/strong><br \/>24\/7 Emergency Contact: <br \/>Mar&iacute;a Mercedes Larrea \/ +593 9 9 117 2181 \/ headoffice@enchantedexpeditions.com<br \/>Wendy: +593 99 117 2171 \/ Debora: +593 99 143 0460 \/ debora@enchantedexpeditions.com<br \/>Office number: Mon-Fri, 8:30am-5pm \/ (+593 2) 334 0525<br \/><\/p>","Custom_Outfitter_Contacts_Right":"","Custom_name_slug":"galapagos-private-yacht-charter","Custom_Meta_Description":"Charter a private yacht, and with your naturalist guide, set off into Darwin&apos;s world for an active journey full of nature hikes and wildlife wonders, including fantastic snorkeling with playful sea lions.","Custom_List_Description":"Charter a private yacht, and with your naturalist guide, set off into Darwin&apos;s world for an active journey full of nature hikes and wildlife wonders, including fantastic snorkeling with playful sea lions.","Custom_Redirect":"","Custom_PJ_-_Best_Months":"January to December","Custom_After_Dates":"Note: Charters are available year-round, but we strongly recommend that you book well in advance. The yachts we charter are some of the most popular and sought-after in the islands, and tend to be reserved up to a year in advance. Please contact us at your earliest convenience to get your preferred dates of travel.","Custom_Trip_Web_Note":"Note: This trip must start on a Saturday","Custom_Title_Tag":"Galapagos Private Yacht Charter | Luxury Guided Tour","Custom_Before_Days":"","Custom_After_Days_Header_1":"Western Islands Itinerary","Custom_After_Days_Text_1":"<body><div><strong>Days 1-3: Santa Cruz Island \/ Darwin Station \/ Floreana<\/strong><\/div><div>Fly to Baltra and explore the lush Santa Cruz highlands to look for the giant Gal&aacute;pagos tortoises that gave the islands their name. Board your yacht, then visit the Charles Darwin Research Station's tortoise-breeding facility. Cruise to Floreana for a walk to a salt-water lagoon where pink flamingos wade. Snorkel at Devil's Crown, a volcanic rock formation, and visit historic Post Office Bay, where sailors once left letters to be picked up by the next passing ship.<\/div><div><br><strong>Days 4-5: Isabela Island \/ Urbina Bay \/ Tagus Cove \/ Fernandina<\/strong><\/div><div>Land at Punta Moreno on Isabela for a walk on a superb broken lava flow surrounded by giant shield volcanoes&mdash;some are still active! Visit Urbina Bay, with its black-sand beach where green sea turtles nest, and hike at Tagus Cove, once an anchorage for pirate boats, for views of the volcanic landscapes of Darwin Volcano and Darwin Lake, a saline lake that is saltier than the sea! Cross Bolivar Channel to Fernandina Island and land at Punta Espinosa, a narrow point of land extending out from the base of the Fernandina Volcano, the most active volcano in the Gal&aacute;pagos. During nesting season (the first half of the year), you may see tiny marine iguana hatchlings here, as well as flightless cormorants, land iguanas, and Gal&aacute;pagos penguins.<\/div><div><br><strong>Days 6-8: Santiago \/ Sullivan Bay \/ North Seymour<\/strong><\/div><div>At Santiago, visit magnificent Puerto Egas, where you might see Darwin's finches and the endemic Gal&aacute;pagos hawk. Enjoy idyllic Espumilla Beach, a great place for swimming and snorkeling and an important site for nesting marine turtles. Walk the recent lava flows of Sullivan Bay, with their fresh pahoehoe formations, then head to North Seymour to hike among prehistoric-looking marine iguanas and a colony of magnificent frigatebirds. Disembark at Baltra and transfer to the airport for ongoing flights.<\/div><meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><\/body>","Custom_After_Days_Header_2":"","Custom_After_Days_Text_2":"","Custom_Choosing_Right_Trip_Office_Contact":"","Custom_About_WT_Expeditions":"","Custom_Arrival_-_Sales":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2022-12-12T12:15:31 --><p>You may arrive in Quito or Guayaquil, Ecuador. To expedite transit to the Gal&aacute;pagos Islands, we recommend you book your international flights via Guayaquil (airport code: GYE), Ecuador. If you plan to travel within Ecuador before or after the cruise, we recommend you book your international flights via Quito (airport code: UIO), Ecuador. Regardless of your arrival city in Ecuador, we are happy to book extra hotel nights and airport transfers as needed. Please contact us should you need any assistance. Flights from the US typically arrive in the late evening, so most passengers prefer to arrive a day early to account for any missed connections or airline delays.<\/p>","Custom_Departure_-_Sales":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2022-12-12T12:16:00 --><p>Most flights depart for the US in the early morning, but if your departing flight is in the evening, you can request a late check-out and\/or day room. This will come at an extra charge, but makes for a more relaxing last day.<\/p>","Custom_International_Air_Travel":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2022-12-12T12:18:42 --><p>Trip members are responsible for making their own international air arrangements to and from Latin America.<br \/><br \/>There are many online consolidators for booking travel, but for more personal help arranging air transport, you can contact Exito Travel at 1-800-655-4053 in the US or 1-800-670-2605 in Canada. They are very adept at putting flight itineraries together, to even the most far-flung places. More information can be found on Exito's website at <a href=\"https:\/\/exitotravel.com\/\">www.exitotravel.com<\/a>.<br \/><br \/>The name on your airline ticket must match the name on your passport exactly, and your passport must be valid for at least six months after your date of return to the U.S. <br \/><br \/><strong>Please do not purchase your tickets until you are confirmed on the trip.<\/strong> Once your tickets have been purchased, please send us a copy of your airline schedule so we can reserve your airport transfers. It is your responsibility to ensure your flight times coordinate with the arrival and departure logistics for the trip.<\/p>","Custom_Extra_Hotel_Nights":"","Custom_Recommended_Hotels":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Header_1":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2022-12-12T12:16:32 --><p>EXTENSIONS<\/p>","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Text_1":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2022-12-12T12:16:23 --><p>If you are adding a post-trip extension in Ecuador, you should fly through Quito (UIO).<\/p>","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Header_2":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2022-12-12T12:17:01 --><p>INTERNAL GAL\u00c1PAGOS FLIGHTS<\/p>","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Text_2":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2022-12-12T12:16:51 --><p>Your internal round-trip flights to\/from the Gal&aacute;pagos will be issued and distributed by our local agent in Ecuador (the airfare will appear on your final Wilderness Travel invoice).<\/p>","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_1":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_1":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_2":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_2":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_3":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_3":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_4":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_4":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_5":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_5":"","Custom_file_name":"galapagos-private-journey","Custom_Passport":"A valid passport is required for your trip. Be sure to check the expiration date. <strong>Your passport must be valid for six months after your date of exit from Ecuador<\/strong>. In addition, we recommend your passport have at least two completely blank visa pages for every country you will be visiting. It is very important that the blank pages say &#8220;Visas&#8221; at the top. The last few pages of your passport, which say &#8220;Amendments and Endorsements,&#8221; and the final page of your passport, which may not have a page number, are not considered to be legitimate visa pages. You can request a new passport through <a href=\"http:\/\/travel.state.gov\/passport\/passport_1738.html\">US Passport Services Office<\/a> (the service of adding pages for visas was discontinued as of January 1, 2016) or use a visa service agency, which can take care of your passport renewal and expedite the process, if needed. We recommend <a href=\"http:\/\/www.passportvisaexpress.com\/?affId=2120\">Passport Visas Express<\/a>. Be sure to allow sufficient time to acquire or renew your passport before your trip. <br><br>It is a good idea to carry photocopies of your passport's photo page and any acquired visa pages for your trip (if applicable) in case your passport is lost or as an additional piece of identification, as well as two extra passport photos.","Custom_Visas_and_Entry_Notes":"US citizens do not need a visa for Ecuador. A tourist card will be issued to you on the flight to Ecuador. Half of the card is collected upon your entry to the country, and you keep the other half to present upon your departure. <br><br>If you are a citizen of any country other than the US, check with a local consulate for entry requirements.<br><strong><br>Inspection &amp; Quarantine<\/strong><br>The native animals and plants of Gal&aacute;pagos are highly vulnerable to pests and diseases. Because of this, the introduction of exotic organisms may put the biodiversity of the Gal&aacute;pagos Islands at risk. A quarantine inspector will check your luggage at the airport in Quito or Guayaquil, as well on your arrival in the Gal&aacute;pagos. You must declare any kind of organic product in your possession: fruit, vegetables, plants, food, or animal products of any type. The inspector will inform you if such items are permitted in Gal&aacute;pagos. You should also make sure that shoes and clothes are free of soil and seeds. <br><br><ul><li><strong>Food Products: <\/strong>Fresh and perishable food products such as fruit and meat are restricted or prohibited.<\/li><li><strong>Animal Products: <\/strong>Animal products or those derived from animal sources may be prohibited or restricted as they could be carriers of pests and diseases.<\/li><li><strong>Vegetable Products:<\/strong> Articles manufactured from vegetable products could be carriers of transferable seeds, viruses, insects, and fungi. In all cases, an inspection is required to determine the risk level.<\/li><li><strong>Plants and Fresh Flowers:<\/strong> Plants and fresh flowers are absolutely prohibited. Only seeds that are authorized and certified may be brought in.<\/li><li><strong>Live Animals: <\/strong>Live animals may not be brought into the Gal&aacute;pagos Islands.<\/li><li><strong>Inter-Island Trips:<\/strong> When traveling between islands, do not take food, plants, or animals. Make sure to clean your shoes and clothes of all soil and seeds before visiting new sites and islands.<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Money":"The unit of currency in Ecuador is the US dollar. Visa, MasterCard, and American Express cards are accepted in major hotels, restaurants and shops. If you plan to use your credit cards, inform your credit card company before your departure that you will be using the card abroad. ATMs are available in Guayaquil, Quito, and Puerto Ayora. Check with your bank for information about international transaction fees, daily maximum withdrawal limits, and PIN codes for international ATM use.<br><strong><br>Be sure to bring an appropriate supply of US cash with you<\/strong>. You will need to budget spending money for gratuities, personal items, any meals not included in the trip itinerary (approximately $15-$20 for lunches and $20-$35 for dinners in Guayaquil or Quito, cash or credit card), medical expenses, and extra beverages aboard the yacht. <br><br>Tea, coffee, water and natural juices are complimentary aboard the yacht. Alcohol and sodas are at additional cost. There is an individual bar bill that is tallied over the course of the cruise to be settled at the end and paid by credit card or USD. <br><br>USD bills are accepted in Ecuador and aboard the yacht, including $50 and $100 bills. We recommend that you bring a combination of small and large bills in good condition for expenses during your free time, as merchants are less willing to accept large bills for small purchases.","Custom_Tipping":"Tipping is completely discretionary, but over the years, clients have asked us for tipping guidelines to reward guides and local staff for excellent service. Aboard the yacht, a range of reference would be:<br><ul><li>For the boat crew, $190-$250 per trip member for the 8-day cruise.<\/li><li>For the Naturalist Guide (Trip Leader), $190-$230 per trip member for the 8-day cruise. <\/li><\/ul> <br><br>On your own in mainland Ecuador, a range of reference would be:<br><ul><li>For luggage porters, we suggest $1 per bag. For airport transfer drivers, $2-$5 per person.<\/li><li>Better restaurants add a 10% service charge to the bill. If the service is good, you can add an additional amount. <\/li><\/ul> <br><br>If you are adding extra days with guided activities and private transportation, a range of reference would be:<br><ul><li>For the guide, $20-$25 per person per day for a full-day tour.<\/li><li>For the driver, $10-$15 per person per day for a full-day tour. <\/li><\/ul> <br><br>For extensions to Napo, Otavalo, or Peru, please refer to your Extension Pre-Departure booklet.","Custom_Food":"Please reach out to us directly to discuss any dietary restrictions or concerns you may have. We can easily make arrangements for most diets, but please keep in mind that certain cultural differences or logistical limitations can make it difficult or at times impossible to accommodate all requests. With this in mind, please inform us at least eight weeks before your trip if you have a special diet, and any food allergies in particular, so we can do our best to meet your needs.","Custom_Communications":"<strong>Phone:<\/strong> The international dialing code for Ecuador is 593. Please contact your cell phone company for specific instructions for international use. Sporadic signals are available while cruising the islands, but cannot be guaranteed.<br><br>If you don't already have WhatsApp on your phone, we encourage you to download this free app before your trip. WhatsApp is used widely in Ecuador and is a convenient way to contact our local team and the emergency contacts on your trip.<br><strong><br>Email &amp; Internet Access:<\/strong> There are internet cafes in Puerto Ayora on the island of Santa Cruz in the Gal&aacute;pagos. Due to the remote location of the islands, cell phone service and WiFi are not available while you are on board. Sometimes there is a weak signal while the boat is near Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island, but it is not reliable. We recommend having friends and family members contact our office should they need to get a message to you. We can deliver messages aboard via the Captain's radio.","Custom_Electricity":"Ecuador and the Gal&aacute;pagos use 110\/120V current. There are two types of plugs: A (two flat pins) and B (two flat pins and a round grounding pin&mdash;the same as the US). Aboard the yacht and in most hotels, you can use either type of plug.","Custom_Laundry":"","Custom_Ship_Notes":"","Custom_Inoculations":"No inoculations are currently required for entry to Ecuador and the Gal&aacute;pagos. Entry requirements are subject to change. We recommend you discuss the following with your physician:<br><strong><br>Polio<\/strong><br>People who have received the primary series of at least three doses of polio vaccine are considered fully immunized. People who are unsure of their status should receive the vaccine (three doses spaced at intervals).<br><strong><br>Hepatitis<\/strong><br>The vaccines HAVRIX and VAQTA (two injections, six to 18 months apart) give long-term protection against Hepatitis A and are worthwhile if you travel regularly to developing countries.<br><strong><br>Tetanus Booster<\/strong><br>A booster is strongly recommended (effective for 10 years).<br><strong><br>Typhoid<\/strong><br>The CDC recommends the shot or the oral vaccine, Vivotif Berna, a course of four capsules, one every other day for a week, with full effectiveness reached in a week. You may not be able to take the oral vaccine simultaneously with mefloquine (for malaria prevention).<br><strong><br>For Travel to Ecuador's Amazon:<br><\/strong><strong><br>Yellow Fever<\/strong><br>A Yellow Fever immunization is not required for Quito, Guayaquil, or the Gal&aacute;pagos but is recommended for travel to Ecuador's Amazon. For most travelers, a single dose of yellow fever vaccine provides long-lasting protection and a booster dose of the vaccine is not needed. However, some travelers may require a booster dose. Also, certain countries might require a booster dose of the vaccine; visit the CDC Travelers' Health link (<a href=\"https:\/\/wwwnc.cdc.gov\/travel\">cdc.gov\/travel<\/a>) for information on specific country requirements. Have proof of the shot recorded in your International Health Card and carry the card with your passport. Health officials at borders often (but not always) request proof of the shot. <br><br>Please note: According to the CDC, people 60 years or older may be at increased risk for serious adverse events following vaccination, compared with younger persons. This is particularly true if they are receiving their first yellow fever vaccination. If you are over 60, please discuss this with your physician. <br><br>If you are advised to decline the vaccine, please get a written waiver from your physician or travel clinic in case you might need it during the visa application process.<br><strong><br>Malaria<\/strong><br>If you are traveling to the Amazon, antimalarial medications are strongly recommended but not required.For further malaria information, consult your doctor or the CDC Malaria Hotline (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/malaria\/travelers\/\">cdc.gov\/malaria\/travelers<\/a>) or by phone at 888-232-3228.","Custom_International_Health":"","Custom_Malaria_Prevention":"","Custom_Staying_Healthy":"<html><body style='font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;'><\/html>","Custom_Getting_In_Shape":"","Custom_Medical_Care":"Please understand your local guides do not necessarily possess first aid training. The Captains have some basic first aid training, and they can contact the nearest big cruise ships that have onboard doctors. For health problems, you should always carry your home doctor's phone number. People with serious medical concerns must take this into account in choosing Gal&aacute;pagos as a destination. We recommend you bring an ample supply of personal medications with you in your carry-on luggage.","Custom_Altitude_Considerations":"","Custom_Covid-19":"","Custom_Reading_List":"Elevate your travel experience by delving into this curated collection of books tailored to your upcoming adventure. They will not only entertain but also provide invaluable insights into the history, culture, cuisine, wildlife, mountain trails, or even folklore of the places you're about to explore. Discover the perfect companions for your journey ahead by <a href=\"https:\/\/bookshop.org\/lists\/wilderness-travel-galapagos\">following the link<\/a> or scanning the QR code.","Custom_Photography":"<strong><br>Underwater Photography<\/strong><br>Past clients have enjoyed taking photos of the underwater treasures and sharing them with other trip members after the snorkeling excursions. We recommend bringing a waterproof camera or waterproof housing for your camera. For more information, visit <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bestproductsreviews.com\/cheap-underwater-camera\">Best Underwater Compact Cameras<\/a>.","Custom_Cultural_Considerations":"","Custom_Giving_Back":"","Custom_Enviromental_Concerns":"Biodegradable shampoo, conditioner, bar soap (hand soap), body wash, and body lotion are provided aboard the yacht. If you choose to bring your own soap or shampoo, we recommend Dr. Bronner's, which comes in liquid and bar form, is environmentally friendly, and can be used as body soap, shampoo, hand soap, etc. We also like Wilderness Wash, Campsuds, and Acure Organics Biodegradable wipes. <br><br>You should plan to bring your own sunscreen and any other toiletries you might need. Since most products wash off your skin while snorkeling, and can cause damage to coral reefs and wildlife, we request you bring reef-safe products with natural and biodegradable ingredients. In general, try to stay away from products with phosphate, surfractants, triclosan, and antibacterial ingredients. For sunscreens we recommend mineral-based products with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Brands such as Honest Company, Badger, Raw Elements, and Alba Botanica are found in most sporting goods stores and drugstores. Please avoid all sunscreens that contain oxybenzone and octinoxate, which are harmful to coral reefs.<br>","Custom_Shopping_and_Souvenirs":"","Custom_Seasickness":"In general, the waters are calm. However, we recommend bringing some type of anti-seasickness medication, especially if you have never been on a boat before and don't know how your body will react. There are several medications for seasickness, from ZenTrip sublingual strips to tablets (Kwells or Dramamine) to acupressure wrist bands to Scopalomine patches (by prescription). Check with your doctor. Most people adjust naturally after a day or so of cruising. Lying down in your berth for a while, or going up on deck seems to be a remedy for nausea for many people.","Custom_Explore":"","Custom_Additional_Information":"<div><strong>National Park Rules<\/strong><br>The Gal&aacute;pagos Islands are very special. No one who visits them comes away quite the same, neither the scientist who works in the middle of Darwin's laboratory nor the casual traveler who discovers a little Eden where animals don't run away in fear. The islands are unique, and very delicate, and deserve our best efforts to preserve them in their natural state. <\/div> <br><br>To this end, the national park has published the following rules. It is essential that you respect and follow these directives, that you stay on the marked paths, and that you do not wander off or lag behind your group. You can expect your Gal&aacute;pagos guide to be quite strict in enforcing these rules, as the guides all love these islands and will do the utmost to protect them. <br><br><ul><li>No plant, animal, or remains of such (including shells, bones, and pieces of wood), or other natural objects should be removed or disturbed.<\/li><li>Be careful not to transport any live material to the islands or from island to island.<\/li><li>Do not take any food to the uninhabited islands.<\/li><li>Do not touch or handle the animals.<\/li><li>Do not feed the animals. It can be dangerous to you, and in the long run, would destroy the animals' social structure and breeding habits.<\/li><li>Do not startle or chase any animal from its resting or nesting spot.<\/li><li>Stay within the areas designated as visitor sites.<\/li><li>Do not leave any litter on the islands or throw any off your boat.<\/li><li>Do not deface the rocks.<\/li><li>Do not buy souvenirs or objects made of plants or animals from the islands.<\/li><li>Do not visit the islands unless accompanied by a licensed National Park Guide.<\/li><li>Restrict your visits to officially approved areas.<\/li><li>Show your conservationist attitude.<\/li><li>Park rules forbid fishing on tour boats in the Gal&aacute;pagos.<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Essentials":"<ul><li>Air tickets (or E-tickets)<\/li><li>\nPassport<\/li><li>\nOne other picture ID, such as a driver's license<\/li><li>\nExpense money<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Luggage":"<ul><li>Medium-sized duffel or roller bag, with small padlock (must be unlocked for air travel). Please note: Regular suitcases are very difficult to stow in the cabins on yachts.<\/li><li>Daypack, large enough for a water bottle, camera, and other items you want with you during the day.<\/li><li>Small roll-up duffel if you are an avid shopper or for any non-cruise items.<\/li><\/ul><div><br><strong><br>Weight Limits<\/strong><br>On the flight to\/from the Gal&aacute;pagos, the airline allows one checked piece of luggage per person with a maximum weight of 50 lbs., plus one carry-on bag with a maximum weight of 22 lbs. If the weight of the checked luggage is between 50 lbs. and 71 lbs., the charge is $10. Additionally, each passenger may take a personal item with them on board the plane (purse, cane, camera or binoculars, photography or video equipment or a laptop computer), as long as their size, volume, and weight do not inconvenience other people or obstruct the emergency exits.<\/div>","Custom_Clothing":"On our yachts, most people wear shorts and a t-shirt. For more protection from the sun, wear lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and long pants. Dressing in layers is the best way to stay comfortable. Neutral colors are encouraged&mdash;avoid red and yellow, which can attract wasps. We recommend comfortable shirts\/pants\/skirts for city\/hotel attire in mainland Ecuador. Laundry service is not available on the yacht. <br><br>The clothing list below is provided as a guideline only:<br><ul><li>Rain jacket\/windbreaker<\/li><li>Fleece or wool sweater for cool evenings in Quito and in the Ecuadorian highlands (Otavalo &amp; Hacienda Zuleta Extension)<\/li><li>Lightweight long pants; synthetic &#8220;travel&#8221; fabrics wash and dry easily.<\/li><li>Walking shorts (quick drying fabric)<\/li><li>Long-sleeved shirts; quick-drying fabrics like nylon are ideal<\/li><li>T-shirts (quick-drying fabric)<\/li><li>Shade hat with a wide brim<\/li><li>Lightweight hiking boots\/shoes or running shoes for island hikes; make sure your footwear has good traction because dock steps and rocky shores can be slippery.<\/li><li>Tevas, Keens, or another type of sturdy sandal for &#8220;wet landings&#8221;<\/li><li>Deck shoes (see note below)<\/li><li>Underwear\/ socks; synthetics dry faster<\/li><li>Sleepwear<\/li><li>City\/hotel attire for Guayaquil or Quito<\/li><li>Swimsuits (two recommended)<\/li><\/ul><br><strong><br>Note on Deck Shoes: <\/strong>To protect the teak decks of the yacht, passengers are asked to go barefoot, use non-slip socks, or bring a pair of slip-resistant, non-marking deck shoes. Flip-flops, clean sneakers, sandals, Sperry Top-Siders or Land's End Slip-On Deck Shoes work well. Your deck shoes cannot be worn on your land excursions, as the dirt and debris get caught in the treads and will damage the deck finish.","Custom_Hiking_Boots":"","Custom_Equipment":"<ul><li>Water Bottle. We suggest you bring an insulated water bottle, at least 20-24 oz.<\/li><li>\nSnorkel, mask, fins. There is a full supply of snorkeling gear and shorty wetsuits on board for your complimentary use. However, to ensure a proper fit, many guests bring a mask and snorkel from home and use the fins on board to save packing space in their luggage.<\/li><li>\nGood quality sunglasses with case. A spare pair of sunglasses is invaluable should your first pair be broken or lost.<\/li><li>\nCollapsible walking sticks or hiking poles for uneven surfaces on island walks.<\/li><li>\nCamera, spare batteries, spare flash cards, &#8220;dry bag&#8221; to protect camera<\/li><li>\nToiletry kit (see note under &#8220;Environmental Concerns&#8221;)<\/li><li>\nMoney belt or neck pouch. When you are not using the hotel room safe or in-cabin safe, always carry your passport, credit cards, and cash with you in a money belt or neck pouch tucked down inside your shirt or blouse.<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Personal_First_Aid":"Every trip member should bring a small first aid kit for personal use. Your own experience and consultation with your physician will influence your choices.<br><br><ul><li>\nWaterproof biodegradable sunscreen SPF 30 or higher. On the equator, the sun is very strong. We recommend mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide because they do not contain harsh chemicals that are harmful to the environment. Brands such as Honest Company, Badger, and Alba Botanica are found in most sporting goods stores and drugstores. You can also shop for \"reef safe\" sunscreen online.<\/li><li>\nLip balm with sunscreen and\/or zinc oxide<\/li><li>\nAspirin, ibuprofen, or Tylenol for muscle pain or headaches, Tylenol PM for sleeping<\/li><li>\n\nAnti-seasickness remedies (see information under &#8220;Seasickness&#8221;)<\/li><li>\nTopical antibiotic (such as Neosporin) for cuts, bites, or sores<\/li><li>\nInsect repellent<\/li><li>\nBlister kit, Second Skin, assorted Band-Aids<\/li><li>\nAntihistamine such as Benadryl<\/li><li>\nImodium for diarrhea. If you wish to bring an antibiotic for diarrhea prophylaxis, please consult your physician.<\/li><li>\nPrescription medications properly labeled. As a safety measure, we recommend you bring an extra week's worth of any prescription medications.<\/li><li>\nSpare contact lenses or spare prescription glasses<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Optional_Items":"<ul><li>Full-length wetsuit. Complimentary shorty wetsuits are available on board.<\/li><li>Lycra skins or rash guard for warmth and marine-safe sun protection while snorkeling<\/li><li>For snorkeling, some travelers opt to bring their own inflatable snorkel vest, swim buoy, or flotation belt, available online and in sporting goods stores. You are welcome to use the boat's standard life jackets (PFDs) as well. Flotation assistance is great for kids, and essential if you are not a strong swimmer.<\/li><li>Flashlight, extra batteries<\/li><li>Reading\/writing material<\/li><li>Binoculars. If you are planning to purchase binoculars, visit <a href=\"https:\/\/www.audubon.org\/gear\/binocular-guide\">audubon.org\/gear\/binocular-guide<\/a> for a comparison of all major brands<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Prohibited_Items":"","Custom_When_to_Go":"","Custom_Children":"","Custom_Tag_Line":"With an Expert Naturalist Guide","Custom_Lodging":"7 nights aboard the yacht","Custom_Meals":"All meals included","Custom_Difficulty":"Daily hikes, snorkeling, optional sea kayaking","Custom_Currency_Exchange_Rate":"","Custom_Fuel_Surcharge":"","Custom_Signing_Up_For_a_Trip_-_Email":"","Custom_Optional_Hotel_Upgrades_-_This_Year":"","Custom_Optional_Hotel_Upgrades_-_Next_Year":"","Custom_Trip_Cost_Misc_Header":"","Custom_Trip_Cost_Misc_Text":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like":"<p>The trip is rated <strong>Level 1+, Easy, <\/strong>according to our trip grading system. Trips that are rated 1 have optional walks and little elevation gain or loss. The + indicates that this trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of this level. Our Gal&aacute;pagos journey is appropriate for anyone in good health who is physically active and enjoys regular moderate walks and hikes, but please consider the following factors when choosing this trip:<\/p>","Custom_Terrain":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-06-11T22:44:23 --><p>The daily hikes are not long (up to 3 miles) but often involve uneven ground, either on dry lava, which can be quite sharp, on rocky trails with uneven surfaces, or on sandy beaches.<\/p><p>Trips ashore are by Zodiac. Boarding the Zodiac involves walking down a gang-plank set of stairs and stepping onto the Zodiac while both the yacht and Zodiac are moving with the roll of the seas. A crew member on the Zodiac will reach for your hand to help steady you, but it can often feel tricky, depending on the amount of ocean swell. Passengers are required to wear life jackets when traveling in the Zodiacs.<\/p><p>Shore landings are either &quot;dry&quot; (you step out of the Zodiac on to large rocks or a wooden pier) or &quot;wet&quot; (stepping out of the Zodiac into a foot or so of surf and wading to shore). A dry landing is occasionally tricky, especially on days when the seas are active and the rocks you step onto may be slippery. For a wet landing, you may be stepping from the Zodiac into surf that may be up to your knees or higher, so it is important that you have the agility for this. Of course, our boat staff will be on hand to assist with landings.<\/p>","Custom_Getting_in_Shape":"","Custom_Weather":"","Custom_Accommodations":"","Custom_Cuisine":"","Custom_Transportation":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Header_1":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-06-11T22:27:15 --><p>Swimming &amp; Snorkeling<\/p>","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Text_1":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-06-11T22:27:07 --><p>Trip members should be able to swim and ideally have previous snorkeling experience. The itinerary includes snorkeling excursions on most days and snorkeling is a major attraction for any visit to the islands. Please consult our office (and your Trip Leader on the boat) with any concerns about swimming and snorkeling in the islands. Most snorkeling is in water between 10 to 40 feet deep, but if conditions allow, we may offer open-ocean snorkeling near an off-shore reef. These open-ocean snorkels are not suitable for first-time snorkelers or weak swimmers. Your Trip Leader accompanies the group on all snorkeling excursions and the Zodiac will attempt to stay close, should anyone wish to get out of the water. We do not, however, have staff members available to individually assist snorkelers. It is incumbent on each swimmer to keep track of his or her own whereabouts. Currents in Gal&aacute;pagos can be strong at some sites. You should only choose to swim and snorkel in places where you are completely comfortable. To snorkel, you slide off the side of the Zodiac into the water. Getting back in the Zodiac requires climbing up a small metal ladder attached to the side of the Zodiac. The boat man will help, but it is impossible for him to pull you out of the water -- you must be prepared to do most of the work under your own power.<\/p><p>A variety of snorkeling equipment is available on board, but if you are a serious snorkeler, we highly recommend bringing your own snorkel, mask, and possibly fins to assure a proper fit. A proper fit of your mask is critical for allowing you good vision underwater. There is no scuba diving available on our Gal&aacute;pagos trips (our yachts are not set up for scuba diving but there are places in Puerto Ayora where diving is available if you would like to extend your trip). Depending on your personal tolerance for cold, you may not need a wetsuit, but most trip members prefer a wetsuit. Complimentary shorty wetsuits are available on board for your use. If you easily get cold, you may prefer to bring your own full-length wetsuit. Some people like to swim in lightweight leggings or in &quot;skins&quot; (lycra bodysuits sold at dive shops).<\/p>","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Header_2":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-06-11T22:27:31 --><p>Life On Board<\/p>","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Text_2":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-06-11T22:27:24 --><p>You should understand that this is not a &quot;large-ship cruise,&quot; but once you have adjusted to yacht living, you will find this to be one of the most pleasant journeys imaginable. The day usually starts with a delicious breakfast of fresh fruit, cereal, breads, eggs, fresh juice, and coffee or tea. This is often the time when your Trip Leader gives you a briefing on the day's schedule so you can plan your clothing and equipment. On return to the boat, there may be a chance to snorkel or swim before a multi-course lunch is served. During lunch, the yacht often transits to a new area, and in the later afternoon, you'll make a second landing, taking the Zodiac ashore for more exploration and hikes. Visitors must depart the islands by 6:00 pm. After a relaxing dinner, a wrap-up talk will be given by the Trip Leader.<\/p>","Custom_Trip_Level_Note_1":"","Custom_Trip_Level_Note_2":"","System_Choosing_the_Right_Trip":"<p>Adventure travel often involves exotic destinations, unusual levels of physical exertion, or activities you may not have participated in previously. We work hard to help you choose the right trip for you, paying attention to your individual interests, abilities, and needs. If you have questions about the level of comfort or any of the activities described in this itinerary, please call Wilderness Travel at 1-800-368-2794 or email us at <a href=\"mailto:\/\/info@wildernesstravel.com\">info@wildernesstravel.com<\/a>.<\/p>","System_References":"<p>We&rsquo;d be happy to put you in touch with a past client that has traveled with us.<\/p>","System_Visit_Our_Website":"<p>At <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/\">www.wildernesstravel.com<\/a>, you can book your trip online or find out about added departures, last-minute deals, and one-time Limited Edition adventures that aren&rsquo;t listed in our catalog. You can also access our complete library of detailed itineraries filled with enticing photos and videos, read bios of our Trip Leaders, find descriptions of trip accommodations, and check real-time availability of any trips that interest you.<\/p>","System_Helpful_Links":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-01-27T07:52:03 --><p>Wilderness Travel has compiled a list of useful websites for travelers. Find the Toucan Club tab on the home page of our website and choose Helpful Links: <a href=\"http:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/ toucan\/links\">www.wildernesstravel.com\/ toucan\/links<\/a>.<\/p>","System_About_New_Trips":"This is a new adventure and one that we are particularly excited about offering. However, as with all new departures, flexibility and a spirit of adventure are always appreciated! Activities are described in the itinerary but they can vary, sometimes considerably, depending on weather conditions, the group, and other factors.","System_About_Private_Journeys":"<p>Wilderness Travel Private Journeys are designed for people who want to travel with their own small private group, but who still want to experience the same superb itinerary design, great accommodations, and signature quality of Wilderness Travel's escorted group trips. These Private Journeys allow you to choose your own dates and your traveling companions&mdash;and enjoy the WT touch on all aspects of the journey.<\/p>","System_Limited_Edition_Adventures":"This is a Limited Edition adventure&mdash;which means a unique trip we've never run before or offer only every few years. Led by our most experienced Trip Leaders, these journeys often take place in remote destinations with only the most basic infrastructure for tourism. If you see a Limited Edition trip scheduled for this year, now is the time to sign up, as spaces fill very early and the trip may not be back for a while! Planned daily activities and actual timings may vary due to local conditions or the discretion of your Trip Leader&mdash;it is important to bring your spirit of adventure for these special exploratory journeys!","System_Social_Media":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:33:43 --><p><strong>SOCIAL MEDIA:<\/strong> We invite you to share your adventure with us on social media. Tag @wildernesstravel and we may even feature your content on our pages!<\/p>","System_If_You_Miss_Your_Flight":"<p><strong>IF YOU MISS YOUR FLIGHT<\/strong><br>If you miss your flight or are otherwise delayed, contact our Wilderness Travel office, as well as our local partners, with your new flight information. Refer to the Emergency Contact Information listed in this Final Bulletin.<\/p>","System_Valid_Passport":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-06-16T10:26:21 --><p><strong>VALID PASSPORT:<\/strong> Check that your passport is valid for at least six months from the last day of your trip, and that you have at least two blank pages for any necessary visa or entry and exit stamps.<\/p>","System_Insurance_Policy":"<p><strong>INSURANCE POLICY:<\/strong> If you have purchased the Travelex Travel Protection Plan, you should have received an email confirmation of your policy. Please bring a digital or printed copy of this policy with you. If you cannot find your email confirmation, please contact Travelex's Customer Solutions team at 844-877-1885 or e-mail customersolutions@travelexinsurance.com. If you have not purchased Travelex insurance already, you have the option to do so up to 24 hours prior to your departure.<\/p>","System_Covid-19_Travel_Requirements":"<p><strong>PRE-DEPARTURE INFORMATION<\/strong><strong>: <\/strong>Please review your Pre-Departure Information booklet included in this packet for important information regarding Wilderness Travel's COVID-19 protocols, packing lists, recommended reading, tipping, etc.<\/p>","System_Wilderness_Travel_Office":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:38:07 --><p>Our office in Berkeley, California can be reached at 510-558-2488, or by email at info@wildernesstravel.com. We are available during regular business hours (M-F, 8:30 am-5:00 pm, PST). <\/p>","System_ECI_Travel_Insurance":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:38:31 --><p>If you have purchased the Travelex Travel Protection Plan through Wilderness Travel, please remember to bring your Confirmation of Coverages (COC) with you on the trip, including your Plan Number and important emergency contact information.<\/p><p>If you've purchased a travel protection plan on your own, we recommend that you bring a copy of your policy, including all coverages, with you on your trip.<\/p>","System_Face_Masks_and_Hand_Sanitizer":"","System_DidNotPurchase_Insurance":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-02-28T12:27:44 --><p>Travel Insurance: We recommend that you purchase travel insurance for this trip. For your convenience, we offer Travelex travel protection. Please let us know if you would like us to add the Travelex Travel Protection Plan to this final invoice. You can learn more about the policy on our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/toucan\/travel-insurance\">website<\/a>.<\/p>","System_Purchased_Insurance":"Please remember to bring a copy of your Travelex Confirmation of Coverage and State Specific Policy with you on your trip. You should have received an email directly from Travelex with these documents. If you need this email to be re-sent, please contact Travelex's Customer Solutions team at 844-877-1885 or e-mail customersolutions@travelexinsurance.com. <br><br><br>","System_COVID-19":"The Public Health Emergency for COVID-19 declared by the World Health Organization and the US Department of Health and Human Services expired in 2023. As of March 2024, we no longer require guests who exhibit cold or flu symptoms to test for COVID-19. Guests who test positive for COVID-19 will be required to follow local health protocols, wear a mask in group vehicles and during indoor activities for the remainder of the trip, and may be asked to dine separately. Any travel companion sharing a room with them will also be required to wear a mask at all times in the shared group vehicles for the remainder of the trip.<br><br>We encourage all travelers to actively monitor their own well-being and to use common-sense preventative measures such as regular handwashing (or use of hand sanitizer) and\/or wearing a face mask. If you are feeling sick, we encourage you to self-isolate and\/or wear a mask to protect your fellow travelers. Guests may be required to wear a mask if the Trip Leader believes the situation warrants it.<br><br>Leading up to the trip, we encourage you to do everything possible to stay healthy, including avoiding close contact with anyone displaying cold or flu symptoms and washing your hands often. As always, by traveling with Wilderness Travel, guests agree to be accountable for their own well-being. If you are worried about a fellow traveler's cold or flu-like symptoms, you may opt to wear a mask or distance yourself as needed. It's important to remember that there are inherent risks associated with travel and group settings.<br><br>These protocols will be reviewed and adjusted as guidance evolves. <br><br>","System_Photography":"<strong>Camera Recommendations<\/strong><br>With the many advances in digital technology, a simple compact digital camera or even your smartphone is capable of taking pictures suitable for the needs of most people. For higher quality images and the ability to use long lenses for closer wildlife pictures, a DSLR camera is well worthwhile, though heavier. Most digital cameras and phones have good video options, but you may want to consider a GoPro for a lightweight, waterproof option. Always practice ahead of time with new equipment and bring your manual with you. You may want to consider renting camera equipment for your trip from places such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lensrentals.com\/\">lensrentals.com<\/a>. This is an especially good idea for renting large zoom lenses that you may need for just one trip. Adding their extra insurance fee to cover expensive equipment is recommended. <br><strong><br>Camera Accessories<\/strong><br>We recommend bringing at least two large capacity memory cards or a small digital storage unit (or tablet) to back up your photos, freeing space on your memory cards. Don't forget to bring a battery charger and a backup battery so one is always charged and ready to use. For trips where you may be away from power sources for multiple days, consider looking into a solar-powered battery charger or buying additional backup batteries, and check that you have the appropriate adapter for the electrical outlets in your destination.<br><strong><br>Sharing Your Images<\/strong><br>We would love for you to share photos from your trip, and with your permission, may even use your photos in our marketing materials or on our photo blog. We request that you send us a small sample of your best images. Please email your photos to wtphotoblog@gmail.com or tag us @WildernessTravel on social media.<br><strong><br>Photography Etiquette<\/strong><br>When taking pictures of local people, be aware of cultural considerations. Approaching people with a warm smile and using polite gestures or simple phrases to ask permission to photograph them usually works well. It is always recommended to engage people in conversation before asking to photograph them, but if people do not wish to have their photo taken, please honor their requests. We urge travelers to avoid giving money in exchange for photo opportunities, which makes it harder for future travelers to have a meaningful personal interaction with local people. Please always heed your Trip Leader's guidelines for what is appropriate. ","System_Gear_Store":"To help you prepare for your next WT adventure, we've put together a great collection of top brands including Patagonia, Outdoor Research, Eagle Creek, and more at our WT Gear Store (<a href=\"https:\/\/wildernesstravel.newheadings.com\/\">wildernesstravel.newheadings.com<\/a>).","System_Questions?":"<p>Our Area Specialists are your single point of contact and would be happy to answer any questions about your trip!<br>800.368.2794 | 510.558.2488<\/p>","System_Pricing_Detail-Small_Group_Adventure":" <br><br>To offer the lowest possible cost, our trips are priced according to the number of participants on the trip. All costs are per person, based on double occupancy. If you wish to have a single room, you must pay the single supplement fee. Please note that Wilderness Travel staff, or guests of Wilderness Travel such as travel writers, photographers, or leaders-in-training, are not included in the tier pricing count.","System_Travel_Insurance":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-01-27T07:58:05 --><p>We highly recommend you purchase travel insurance. You can take advantage of a comprehensive Travel Protection Plan designed for Wilderness Travel by Travelex, or purchase other insurance on your own. See our website for details: <a href=\"http:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/insurance\">www.wildernesstravel.com\/insurance<\/a><\/p>","System_Make_it_Your_Trip":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:44:18 --><p>The prices above are for the ready-to-book adventure outlined in this Detailed Itinerary, a popular option that has been handcrafted by our Area Specialists to include the best of every destination. While many travelers choose to book this tour as is, our Area Specialists are also happy to work with you to customize this Private Journey to suit your specific interests and style of travel. We can arrange for longer or shorter stays, offer hotel upgrades (see below for sample costs), or add an extension to additional places of interest. We can even add special activities or customize excursions depending on your interests. We invite you to contact us to discuss your options!<\/p>","System_Signing_up_for_a_Trip":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:44:42 --><p>Early reservations are recommended since accommodations often sell out far in advance. Please call 1-800-368-2794 and ask for our [Africa Manager] or email us at [africa@ wildernesstravel.com] with any questions that you may have about this trip. To reserve your Private Journey, we will need to know your preferred dates of travel. We will then check availability and send you a proposed itinerary with exact pricing for your adventure. We can typically hold a provisional booking for one week. At that time, we must collect your initial deposit or accommodations will be released. We accept Visa, Mastercard, or American Express card. Upon receipt of your deposit, we will send you a Welcome Packet that includes a letter of confirmation, Detailed Itinerary, Trip Application, Medical Form, and Pre-Departure Information Booklet with information to help you prepare for your adventure. Please see our Cancellations and Transfer Fee Schedule for specific payment information.<\/p>","System_Trip_Leaders":"<p>Wilderness Travel Trip Leaders have a passion and a joy for creating an unforgettable journey. We are extremely proud of them and the incredible travel experiences they make possible. For more information, including client comments about them and which specific trips they will be leading, please visit <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/leaders\/\">wildernesstravel.com\/leaders<\/a>.<\/p>"},"terms":{"PaymentSchedule":"<p>At time of reservation: $2,500<br>180 days prior to departure: $2,500<br>90 days prior to departure: Balance <br><br><em>Please note that this differs from our standard policy.<\/em><\/p>","CancelSchedule":"<p>Minimum fee: $15,000<br>91-180 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost<br>90 days or less: 100% of trip cost<\/p><p><em>Please note that this differs from our standard policy.<\/em><\/p>"}}