Ultimate Galápagos Photo TourWITH PHOTOGRAPHERS THOM HOGAN AND ANTHONY MEDICI

TRIP DATESINSTRUCTORS: THOM HOGAN AND TONY MEDIC I

November 20-December 6, 2020

17-DAY TRIP / 15-DAY CRUISE ABOARD THE MARY ANNE

by thom.com

Ultimate Galápagos Photo TourWITH PHOTOGRAPHERS THOM HOGAN AND ANTHONY MEDICI

There’s so much to see and do on these amazing islands and in the glorious

underwater universe surrounding them, that I’m offering the “ultimate”

Galápagos photo adventure: an active 15-day cruise exploring all of the major

sites—and fascinating wildlife—of the archipelago! Our epic adventure aboard

the Mary Anne brings you to dramatic lava flows, white-sand beaches, and up–

close encounters with the exotic creatures that inspired Charles Darwin.

You’ll walk by magnificent frigatebirds, many in full courtship display, swim

with Galápagos penguins, and snorkel right alongside sea turtles. It’s a wildlife

experience like no other on the planet and because of that, the photography

opportunities will feel unlimited. I hope you decide to join us!

— Thom Hogan

ITINERARY & MAP 3

ABOUT PHOTOGRAPHY 9

TRIP COST, PAYMENT & INSURANCE 10

EXTEND YOUR ADVENTURE 12

HOTEL & YACHT ACCOMMODATIONS 14

TRIP LEADERS 16

ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE 17

TRIP DETAILS 18

1102 Ninth Street, Berkeley, CA 94710800-368-2794 • 510-558-2488

www.wildernesstravel.com • info@wildernesstravel.com

3800-368-2794 | 510-558-2488 | info@wildernesstravel.com

DAY 1 GUAYAQUILArrive in Guayaquil, where a Wilderness Travel transfer agent takes you on a short 15-minute ride to our group hotel, the Oro Verde...Meals on your own.

Those who arrive before 3:00 pm will meet with the photography instructors for a brief orientation and photo instruction at the hotel.

DAY 2 GALÁPAGOS CRUISE / BALTRA / BLACK TURTLE COVEIn the morning, shuttle back to the airport for the two-hour flight to the Galápagos, 600 miles off Ecuador’s coast. On arrival at Baltra Island at around 10 am, board the Mary Anne in time for lunch on deck. After lunch, we will navigate a short distance to Black Turtle Cove, a large mangrove lagoon on the north coast of Santa Cruz Island. 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 as it makes its way through the mangroves. Overnight aboard the Mary Anne...BLD

The afternoon is spent on the Zodiac doing photography, so you need a way to protect your gear from water. Polarizing f ilters are useful. We’ll most likely be using longer lenses to shoot birds and whatever pokes its head out of the water, but sometimes you can see rays, sharks, or f ish just under the surface if you have a polarizer.

DAY 3 DARWIN BAY, TOWER ISLAND / PRINCE PHILLIP STEPSWe travel to Tower (Genovesa) Island, landing at magnificent Darwin Bay, a flooded caldera. Here we enjoy a walk through a huge colony of photogenic red-footed boobies perched in palo santo trees, in red mangroves, and on prickly pear cactus. Red-footed boobies are the only members of the booby family to nest in trees. Great frigatebirds are also seen here on Tower, while elegant swallow-tailed gulls rest under the salt bushes. We may also see Darwin’s famous finches, including sharp-beaked finches and large cactus finches, along with Galápagos doves and swallow-tailed gulls. After lunch, we arrive at Prince Philip Steps, so named for the prince’s visit here in 1964, for a climb up to a clifftop where frigatebirds and Nazca boobies nest alongside red-footed boobies. We will also be looking for the impressive red-billed tropicbird amid the Galápagos storm petrels. Overnight aboard yacht...BLD

Photographically, today is bird heaven. We generally can get close to nesting birds, but we also will have many opportunities to shoot birds in flight. You mostly want a longer telephoto lens on a fast focusing camera, but it’s surprising how much you can do with shorter lenses, too.

DAY 4 BARTOLOMÉ ISLAND / SULLIVAN BAY, SANTIAGO ISLANDA hike to the top of Bartolomé offers us breathtaking views of photogenic Pinnacle Rock, the Galápagos’ most famous icon, and neighboring Santiago Island. After lunch, we head across to Sullivan Bay on Santiago Island to walk a recent lava flow with very fresh pahoehoe lava formations, lava bubbles, and

Itinerary

TRIP DETAILS AT-A-GLANCELength: 17 daysArrive: Guayaquil, EcuadorDepart: Guayaquil, EcuadorLodging: 15 days/14 nights aboard

Mary Anne, 2 hotel nights in Guayaquil

Meals: All meals included except 2 lunches and 2 dinners

Activity: Wildlife & Natural History, Small Boat & Yacht Cruising, Snorkeling

Trip Level: Daily hikes, snorkeling,

optional sea kayaking, daily photography, image reviews

HIGHLIGHTS• The most comprehensive

adventure in the islands, with daily photography sessions

• Cruise in comfort aboard a 16-passenger sailing yacht with 2 superb naturalist guides

• Active journey, with daily hiking, snorkeling, and sea kayaking

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pioneering plants. Along the shoreline, we may find Galápagos penguins and herons hunting for small fish. Overnight aboard yacht...BLD

We move photographically from animals to scenics today, so your wider angle lenses will come into play. It’s even possible someone might want to tackle a panorama or two.

DAY 5 RÁBIDA ISLAND / CERRO DRAGÓN, SANTA CRUZ ISLANDRábida, the red island, is a landscape of colorful eroded hills. We explore its fascinating maroon-tinted interior and saltwater lagoon to find Darwin’s finches, Galápagos mockingbirds, and yellow warblers. At certain times of the year, brown pelicans nest on salt bushes that fringe the beach. After lunch, we head across to Cerro Dragón on Santa Cruz Island’s northwest shore to visit a saltwater lagoon, home to greater flamingos, black-necked stilts, and white-cheeked pintails. Further inland, we find a fantastic land iguana nesting site. Overnight aboard yacht...BLD

We’ll be back to looking for animals today, and that will often be with longer telephoto lenses. That said, both sites today have scenic aspects, so this is one of those days you want to be prepared to go both directions with your photos.

DAY 6 EL CHATO TORTOISE RESERVE / CHARLES DARWIN RESEARCH STATIONWe head to El Chato Tortoise Reserve in the highlands of Santa Cruz to search for these giant creatures in the wild, then explore the Charles Darwin Research Station’s tortoise-breeding facility. The Research Station is the Galápagos-based branch of the international, non-profit Charles Darwin Foundation. Established in 1959, the station works closely with the Galápagos 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. Overnight aboard yacht...BLD

With the tortoises in the highlands, we typically don’t need a long lens, but the way Darwin Station is now configured, the animals are often far from the boardwalk we must remain on. So a mid-range to telephoto is what you’ll need most of the day.

Itinerary (cont’d)

“A great photographic trip, with excellent teaching and advice.”

Bill H., Carmel, INGalápagos Photo Workshop, 2015

5800-368-2794 | 510-558-2488 | info@wildernesstravel.com

DAY 7 SOUTH PLAZA ISLAND / SANTA FE ISLANDLanding on one of the oldest docks in the archipelago, we head ashore on South Plaza. This island captivates visitors with its vibrant colors, from green prickly pear cactus to the copper-colored land iguanas. Huge seagoing marine iguanas roam the shores, and swallow-tailed gulls and red-billed tropicbirds are often found here. The impressive seaward cliffs here are excellent for a variety of coastal birds. This is also a great place to observe adult and pup sea lions swimming along the shores. Later we land on a white beach on Santa Fe Island, where sea lions are usually resting, to look for the island’s endemic species of land iguana, larger and yellower than land iguanas on other islands. The largest prickly pear cacti in the Galápagos are also found here. Overnight aboard yacht...BLD

Two great locations in one day. The seaward cliffs offer some of the best birds in flight opportunities, and the other sections have great approachable animals, particularly the iguanas on Plaza. Photo instruction is always available in every group activity, but if you’re struggling with anything, today is a day you want to seek out individual help in the morning. That’s because today and tomorrow are some of the most classic Galápagos photography areas.

DAY 8 PUNTA SUAREZ, ESPANOLA ISLAND / GARDNER BAYWe spend the day on fantastic Española, southernmost island in the archipelago, with its long white beaches. This island has a high degree of species differentiation due to its remoteness. A spectacular walk at Española’s Punta Suárez offers nesting sites of blue-footed and Nazca boobies. One of the island’s most spectacular birds is 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 Galápagos but also to this island, where they exist in colonies of about 12,000 pairs. Later we walk up to an amazing viewpoint of the island’s famous blowhole, which shoots water as high as 90 feet in the air. Along the way, we’ll be passing marine iguanas just starting to get their mating colors as well as lazing Galápagos sea lions. After lunch, we explore the other side of Española at Gardner Bay, which has an outstanding beach with sea lions, marine iguanas, and the endemic Española mockingbird. Overnight aboard yacht...BLD

If you liked yesterday photographically, you’ll enjoy today, too. We get a slightly different set of birds, particularly the albatross, but much of what we did yesterday will repeat today with the difference being the landscape and the species involved. These two days are a great back-to-back contrast.

DAY 9 SANTA CRUZ HIGHLANDS / PUERTO AYORAWe return to the town of Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island and head once again to the lush highlands, this time to see the the huge twin craters called Los Gemelos and explore the lava tunnels. After lunch at a highland ranch, we

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enjoy free time in the charming small town of Puerto Ayora, with its shops and open-air cafes. Overnight aboard yacht...BLD

This walk requires opposites. In the lava tube and at the viewpoint, you’ll need a wide lens. I might even bring a tripod. But one of the things we’ll see is lots of interesting small birds, so you also need your longest lens, too.

DAY 10 PUNTA CORMORANT, FLOREANA ISLAND / DEVIL’S CROWN / POST OFFICE BAYWe spend the day on Floreana, legendary homestead of infamous Baroness Eloise Von Wagner de Bousquet. Landing on the olivine beaches of Punta Cormorant, we look for greater flamingos at a saltwater lagoon, then walk farther to a beach known as “Flour Beach” for its fine white sand where sea turtles nest. We end the outing with a Zodiac ride to Devil’s Crown, the remnant of a volcanic crater whose pinnacles rise up from the sandy bottom. Devil’s Crown is one of the island’s most dramatic snorkeling locations. We’ve been doing near daily snorkels at this point, but here’s our first location where your underwater camera or housing is going to earn its keep. After lunch, we visit the historic Post Office Barrel, where in the 18th century, sailors left letters to be posted by passing ships. Overnight aboard yacht...BLD

We’re back on the hunt for animals today. This island has many, but they’re a little more elusive than we just experienced, so telephoto lenses are going to come into play.

DAY 11 BLACK BEACH AND HIGHLANDS / SAIL FOR ISABELAIn the morning, we visit Floreana’s Black Beach, where we learn about the intriguing human history of the island and its first inhabitants. Floreana was the first of the islands to be settled, since it has one of the few sources for fresh water. We head into the highlands to visit the “Asilo de la Paz,” the freshwater spring, as well as the caves that served as hideouts for pirates and where the first settlers established their camps. 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. After our visit, we return to the yacht and sail across the sea to Isabela Island, with opportunities along the way to watch for whales and dolphins that inhabit these waters. We’ll enjoy a sunset dinner with extraordinary views. Overnight aboard yacht...BLD

This day is more about taking pictures of the place, so a wide-angle and mid-range lens is probably all that’s needed.

DAY 12 PUNTA MORENO, ISABELA ISLAND / ELIZABETH BAYWe arrive at Isabela, the largest island in the Galápagos. After breakfast, we step ashore at Punta Moreno for a walk on a superb pahoehoe lava flow surrounded by giant shield volcanoes, some still active. From here we hike to a lagoon where flamingos are usually present. After lunch, we explore by Zodiac in and around Elizabeth Bay, a saltwater lagoon surrounded by the largest red mangroves in

Itinerary (cont’d)

“Being aboard the yacht was a thrill, and eating on deck with

the beauty of the islands in view was beyond spectacular.”

Kay M., Morrison, CO

7800-368-2794 | 510-558-2488 | info@wildernesstravel.com

the Galápagos. Here it is usual to see sea turtles swim near our Zodiac to greet us. Flightless cormorants and Galápagos penguins are also more abundant in this part of the archipelago. Overnight aboard yacht...BLD

Today is similar to other days where we’ve split the day with a hike and a Zodiac ride, but again in a different locale that provides different backgrounds.

DAY 13 URBINA BAY, ISABELA ISLAND / PUNTA ESPINOSA, FERNANDINA ISLANDWe land at Urbina Bay on a black sand beach that is a nesting site for green sea turtles. We take a brief hike inland in search of land iguanas as well as giant tortoises (here at certain seasons when they migrate to and from the highlands). At the beach, we can admire the remains of a geological uplift exposing coral heads and marine fossils. If the sea conditions are good and there is time, we can snorkel in these waters. Setting sail at lunchtime, we cross Bolivar Channel to Fernandina Island, one of the world’s most unspoiled places, landing at Punta Espinosa for a stroll along the shoreline, on the lookout for flightless cormorants, Galápagos sea lions, Galápagos penguins, Galápagos hawks, sooty-colored marine iguanas, and bright red-orange Sally Lightfoot crabs. Overnight aboard yacht...BLD

We’re back in yet a different locale looking for iguana and tortoise. Generally they can be very close. The afternoon is lizard city, where marine iguanas should all be hanging out digesting their mid-day dives for food. You’ll want the telephoto for some things, especially those cormorants, but you’ll be surprised at what you can do with a mid-range zoom.

DAY 14 TAGUS COVE, FERNANDINA / DARWIN LAKE / PUNTA VICENTE ROCAWe land at Tagus Cove, a historic pirate hideaway named after a British warship that anchored here in 1814. From here we hike through beautiful Galápagos landscapes to Darwin Lake, a saltwater crater lagoon surrounded by tufa stone. After lunch, we land at Punta Vicente Roca for a Zodiac ride around the beautiful coast before jumping into the water to enjoy one of the best snorkeling sites in the Galápagos. The underwater cliffs here are filled with enough color and life to amaze anyone. Overnight aboard yacht...BLD

A scenic morning walk followed by an afternoon Zodiac ride along cliffs, so we go from wide angle in the morning to telephoto in the afternoon.

DAY 15 ESPUMILLA, SANTIAGO ISLAND / PUERTO EGASWe head to Santiago Island to land at Espumilla, a beach of golden sand and a nesting site for green sea turtles. A forest trail brings us through some of the largest specimens of palo santo on the islands and we can observe yellow warblers, the unbelievably tame Galápagos flycatcher, and the ever-intriguing Darwin’s finches. This afternoon’s landing is at Puerto Egas, where we land on a

“We were catered to every moment of the trip. The time on the ship was very well planned and organized—plenty of activities and yet time to relax. Every encounter was friendly and professional.”Cheryle W., Waukegan, IL

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beach of dark volcanic sand and where there is an interesting history of human settlement. Sleepy Galápagos fur seals lounge under arches of lava carved by the ocean here, occasionally dipping into the crystalline grotto pools. We walk along the shore to observe the abundant marine life. Overnight aboard yacht...BLD

Small birds mean lots of lens and the techniques you’ve been learning throughout the trip.

DAY 16 NORTH SEYMOUR ISLAND / BALTRA ISLAND / DISEMBARK / GUAYAQUILWe disembark on North Seymour, a small uplifted island, where we can walk right up to nesting colonies of the two species of frigatebirds as well as blue-footed boobies and swallow-tailed gulls. Depending on the season, the courtship displays can be spectacular. From Baltra, we fly back to Guayaquil, with lunch on board the aircraft, and transfer to the hotel upon arrival. Overnight at the Hilton Colon Guayaquil...B

Our last shore visit should be a good one, with birds extremely accessible in the trees and on the ground, as well as land iguanas. If you’ve started your packing, you can probably get down to a camera with a moderate zoom on it and do just f ine.

DAY 17 DEPARTMorning transfer to the airport for departure on homeward flights or extend your stay with one of our optional extensions...B

Photograpically, we have a wide mix of scenic, tourism (Puerto Ayora), wildlife, and on-board cruise photography available to us. If you’d like to see what that looks like, please check out the blog from Thom and Tony’s previous Galápagos trip at: http://www.bythom.com/photographic-travel/south-america/Galápagos/Galápagos-workshop-2014/. Warning! There’s a lot to digest there. Also note that the itinerary for that trip was a bit different than this one, though there is some significant overlap.

Itinerary (cont’d)

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This is a photography-oriented trip. Thus, we’re out early in the morning and stay as late as we can in the day. We have a maximum 7:1 student to instructor ratio on this trip, so instruction is always available. Be proactive about asking questions if you have them, as even with such a low ratio it can be difficult to apportion teaching time equally.During the trip, we have an introductory photography instruction session for two hours on the first day at the hotel in Guayaquil, then we punctuate that with shorter, near daily sessions on the boat during mid-day or the evening where we’ll tackle techniques appropriate to the Galápagos and do review of images from members of the group. This is a learning trip.

Because we have power available at all times, this is a trip where you should bring your computer and your photography software so that you can work on images during the trip (at least downloading them and doing some personal review of what’s working or not working for you). Our instructors are Lightroom and Photoshop experts as well as photographers, so they can help with work in those programs, as well, and often demonstrate techniques they use during the daily sessions.

You can find photo workshops on smaller boats that last only a week for the cruise portion for prices that aren’t that much lower than this trip’s. We are confident we’re giving you full value for your money. One final thought: we try to disclose every cost you’ll encounter. So make sure you compare total costs to total costs when selecting a Galápagos trip or photo workshop.

Our photography instructors will be sending out emails periodically to those enrolled in this trip to suggest equipment you might want to bring and provide additional tips about what to expect and how to maximize your experience. They usually do one large email six months prior to departure, and another shorter one 90 days prior to departure. You can also email our photo instructors directly with questions once you sign up for the trip.

PHOTOGRAPHY EQUIPMENTThis trip is mostly about wildlife, a little bit scenery. At a minimum you should consider bringing the following:

• Two camera bodies• A long telephoto zoom (70-300mm, 80-400mm); it

doesn’t have to have a fast aperture

• A monopod • Wide angle and normal zooms for scenic and boat

shooting• An underwater camera or a housing for one of your

bodies• A waterproof bag to carry equipment in on the Zodiac• Lenses should probably have image stabilization, as we

often shoot from moving platforms

The photo instructors will be supplying a longer description of what’s useful with their emails. In general, we can only be onshore between sunrise and sunset, so light is usually plentiful. You don’t need fast lenses except for perhaps isolation of animals from backgrounds. However, you can also get isolation from long focal lengths, so a 400mm f/5.6 is more useful than 70-200mm f/2.8 on this trip. Reach is useful both for birds, but also because sometimes the things you want to photograph are simply off the trail and you can’t walk over to them. A monopod for your camera can be handy as both a walking stick and casual support. Tripods aren’t something we use a lot in the Galápagos, but the instructors will have more to say about this in their emails.

The Galápagos are a great birding spot, so some of you will want to bring equipment for that, including long lenses. That’s fine, but just remember we’re usually hand-holding or using a monopod, and we have to carry that equipment with us as we move around on the islands. You could bring a 500mm or 600mm exotic lens, but you’ll be hard pressed to keep it safe from the elements, stable when you use it, and you’ll be lugging it over lava trails and worse.

At other times, you may find yourself struggling with close focus, as it’s also quite common to have birds and animals literally in your face. So lenses that aren’t limited in close focus, perhaps even macro lenses, are useful. Even when you try to stay the park-mandated 6 feet away, you may find some animals simply walk up to you.

Remember your equipment will be going from boat to shore and back, sometimes with you wading ashore, at least twice a day. Plus you’ll be carrying it over sometimes-awkward terrain (lava). You want to avoid big bulky lenses or things you can’t protect well, and it’s important to keep your equipment protected between boat and shore.

About Photography

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Trip Cost, Payment & InsuranceTRIP COSTPrices are for 2020$12495 (11-14 members)Single supplement (at Oro Verde): $235Internal airfare: $540 (subject to change)Galápagos park fee and transit card: $120 per personQuito transfer fee: $120No single supplement charge aboard the Mary Anne for single cabins only, call for details

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. If you are willing to share accommodations, we will match you with a roommate if one is available.

Note: The cruise/workshop trip cost above is the guaranteed price for 2020. The extension costs listed on pages 12-13 are based on 2019 rates. While we don’t expect much change, the 2020 prices will not be available until late spring, 2019.

RESERVATIONSEarly reservations are recommended as the group size is limited. Immediate confirmation can be arranged by calling 800-368-2794 and charging the deposit to a credit card. Each participant must complete the Trip Application and sign the Release of Liability and Assumption of Risks Agreement prior to departure. These will be sent to you in the Welcome Packet.

CURRENCY EXCHANGE RATEBecause the prices published for our program are set so far in advance of the trip dates, we are occasionally faced with exceptional cost increases and/or currency fluctuations that affect the actual cost of running the trip. In most years, no price changes are necessary. However, we do reserve the right to raise or lower the trip price if there is a significant change in costs or exchange rates. If this is the case, your final invoice will reflect the difference in trip cost.

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TRIP COST INCLUDES• Expert leadership of two naturalist guides onboard the

Mary Anne, local guides, photography instruction• Accommodations at the hotel in Guayaquil and aboard

the yacht• All meals included except 2 lunches and 2 dinners• Airport transfers as indicated

TRIP COST DOES NOT INCLUDEInternational airfare, internal flights, Galápagos park fee, any meals not specified after each itinerary day, airport departure taxes, optional gratuities (tipping your naturalist guides and yacht crew is customary, but at your discretion; the photo instructors do not accept tips), additional hotel nights (due to airline schedule changes or other factors), pre-trip expenses such as medical immunizations (if any), travel insurance, passports and visas, or other expenses of a personal nature (alcoholic beverages, laundry, and so on).

PAYMENT SCHEDULEAt time of reservation $600 150 days prior to departure 50% 90 days prior to departure Balance

CANCELLATION AND TRANSFER FEE SCHEDULEMinimum fee: $60061-120 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost60 days or less: 100% of trip cost

TRAVEL INSURANCEWe recommend that all travelers purchase coverage for medical expenses, baggage loss, and trip cancellation. Trip cancellation insurance reimburses you for non-refundable payments should you need to cancel your trip due to a covered sickness or injury to yourself, a traveling companion, or family member, or for certain other unforeseen circumstances. You can take advantage of a Travel Protection Plan designed for Wilderness Travel by Travelex Insurance, or purchase other insurance on your own. A Description of Coverage Brochure and Enrollment Form are included with your confirmation materials, and also available on our website at www.wildernesstravel.com/toucan/travel-insurance. Travel insurance must be paid for before final payment for the trip.

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To help you make the most of your adventure, we’ve created several exciting trip extensions. For detailed information, including full itineraries and complete pricing, please visit our Ultimate Galapagos webpage and click on the “Extensions” tab: www.wildernesstravel.com/trip/ecuador/galapagos-islands-floreana-isabela-tower-yacht-tour/extensions

HACIENDA ZULETA AND OTAVALO EXTENSIONA stunning boutique hotel and working farm, Hacienda Zuleta is owned by the Galo Plaza-Lasso family, who have provided two of Ecuador’s presidents. The hacienda is in an exquisite setting at 9,000 feet in the Ecuadorian Andes. The 19-room estate has 11 private rooms available to guests, each with hand-embroidered linens and beautiful garden views. Zuleta has a wonderfully remote ambience, famous hospitality, and its beautiful rural surroundings are a delight. It offers an authentic experience of the Ecuadorian highlands. Today the working farm produces a wide range of products including milk, cheese, quinoa, potatoes, and organic vegetables. Of special interest to many guests are the hand-embroidery workshop (optional tour at extra cost), condor rehabilitation project, trout farm, and cheese factory. Outside Magazine named Zuleta one of the world’s “Top Ten Finds.” 4 days. From $1475.

Extend Your Adventure

AMAZON RAINFOREST EXTENSION: NAPO WILDLIFE CENTEREnjoy an unforgettable adventure at Napo Wildlife Center for the best experience of the Ecuadorian Amazon. Explore by dugout canoe on blackwater lakes, hike trails through the emerald forest, visit the nearby clay lick where hundreds of parrots and macaws gather, get a birds-eye view from the canopy tower (207 steps!), with its unobstructed 360-degree view of undisturbed forest. NWC is owned by the native Yasuní people, who have lived in this area for centuries. They have a profound respect for maintaining the natural integrity of the ecosystem and are knowledgeable and passionate guides who enhance your experience. Guest cabins are very comfortable and the buffet-style meals in the dining room provide tasty, fresh, and plentiful meals with a good variety to choose from. Our extension has three nights at Napo Wildlife Center, but you have the option to add additional nights. 6 days. From $1895.

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Cusco & Machu Picchu ExtensionExplore charming Cusco, the former Inca capital, discover the fortress-ruins of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, then savor legendary Machu Picchu, the breathtaking mountain sanctuary of the Incas, with an overnight stay near the ruins.

DAYS 1-2LIMA / CUSCO / URUBAMBA VALLEY / OLLANTAYTAMBOArrive in Lima, Peru, in the early morning and connect with a flight to Cusco (11,200’). Spend the balance of the morning resting and acclimatizing to the altitude. After lunch, enjoy an afternoon city tour to explore this ancient capital of the Inca Empire. The next day is a private morning tour of the spectacular Inca ruins on the hills overlooking Cusco, then a drive through the Urubamba Valley to Ollantaytambo, a living Inca village, virtually unchanged from ancient times.

DAYS 3-6MACHU PICCHU / CUSCO / LIMA / DEPARTBoard the morning train with your guide for a short ride through the Urubamba Valley to Machu Picchu! At the Machu Picchu station, head up to the ruins by bus and explore the sanctuary on an afternoon tour, visiting the reconstructed ruins of staircases, altars, temples, and fountains and enjoying the incredible setting. Explore the wonders of Machu Picchu on your own the next morning,

then board your afternoon train to Cusco. On the following day, enjoy an independent exploration of Cusco, taking in the delightful blend of Inca and colonial architecture, the abundance of artisan and craft boutiques and wide variety of wonderful restaurants and street cafes, all with a welcoming atmosphere. On Day 6, depart for Lima in the morning and connect with onward flights.

2019 EXTENSION COSTS $3475 per person, double occupancySolo Traveler: $4995Single supplement: $1040Internal airfare: $580 (subject to change)Seasonal & Holiday Surcharge: Call for detailsOptional Hotel Upgrades: Call for details

Note: The extension costs listed above and on page 12 are 2019 rates. While we don’t expect much change, the 2020 prices will not be available until late spring, 2019.

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THE FINEST SAILING YACHT IN THE ISLANDS The three-masted Mary Anne is simply the most spectacular boat in the islands. She hosts just 16 guests and has the romantic ambiance of a classic tall ship, along with great comfort and delightful cuisine. On board, you’ll enjoy an inviting wood-paneled lounge, cozy bar, and library stocked with great books and videos on the history and wildlife of the Galápagos. A spacious deck offers lots of room for relaxing. The top-notch crew, most of whom are from the islands, provides great service, with a 2:1 passenger-to-crew ratio. To maximize your time both ashore exploring the islands and in the water snorkeling, most navigation is done at night. You’ll arrive at a new island—and new experiences—each morning. We’ll also use the lunch hour to quickly motor to a new landing site for the afternoon’s activities. For those who are sailors, the crew and captain love to raise the sails—a magnificent sight—but we’ll have the time to do this just once or twice per trip. You are welcome to help raise the sails and pilot the boat when we do!

The Mary Anne: Classic Sailing Yacht

"The Mary Anne was a big plus...lots of character and plenty of room to spread out, read, or have privacy when desired. The boat crew were really terrific—every one of them were attentive and skilled at their jobs."

-Jan S., Needham, MA

“The Mary Anne was incredible...such a great

experience on a great boat!” — Denise S., Lima, Peru

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THE ULTIMATE IN STABILITY Unlike the many light fiberglass vessels in the islands (which can bob like corks in the water), the Mary Anne’s steel hull and deep keel make her extremely stable. You will appreciate this as she glides between islands or sits comfortably at anchor. The Mary Anne’s environmentally friendly design meets the strictest international conservation standards.

COMFORTABLE CABINS (AND NO CHARGE FOR SINGLES ON BOARD!)The comfortable cabins feature individual climate control, porthole windows, a variety of upper and lower berth configurations, private bathrooms with hot showers, and there is daily cleaning service. Although smaller than those on large cruise ships, the cabins are quite large for a sailing

yacht. And the truth is, with our active days, you’ll spend most of your time exploring on shore and enjoying views from the open decks. Traveling solo? There’s no extra charge for the single cabins, but availability is limited—book early!

ZODIAC, SNORKEL, AND OPTIONAL KAYAKING ADVENTURESZip to shore on “go-anywhere” Zodiacs, or try out one of the Mary Anne’s sit-on-top sea kayaks. They’re easy to handle and tremendously fun—no previous experience necessary! Snorkeling gear, including shorty wet suits, is available on board free of charge.

VIEW THE DECK PLAN AND MORE PHOTOS AT: www.wildtrav.com/boats/mary-anne

PRE- AND POST-CRUISE ACCOMMODATION

Oro VerdeGuayaquil, Ecuador Day 1 (1 night), Day 9 (1 night)

Centrally located near Guayaquil's historic Malecón, the Oro Verde features spacious and comfortable rooms with a chic design aesthetic, in-room amenities like rainfall showers and Wi-Fi, several highly regarded restaurants, and attentive service.

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THOM HOGAN, PHOTO INSTRUCTORThom Hogan has been teaching photography since leaving Backpacker magazine in 2000, where he was the editor. Formally trained as a filmmaker, Thom taught film and television courses at Indiana University, and has developed coursework in many of the visual arts. While primarily known as a writer and instructor, Thom’s imagery has appeared in a number of magazines, including Backpacker, Outdoor Photography, Digital Foto, and Photographer’s I. “Galápagos is a treasure that every outdoor photographer should visit. It’s not what you expect it to be. It’s far, far better.” This will be Thom’s tenth trip to the Galápagos. Thom currently lives in Emmaus, Pennsylvania.

ANTHONY MEDICI, PHOTO INSTRUCTORAnthony Medici started as Thom’s assistant instructor, and now is an avid and experienced wildlife photographer on his own who specializes in birds. You’ll get plenty of wildlife shooting advice on this trip from Tony, including things to watch out for while shooting, and help getting focus on animals that are moving fast and often peeking through bushes. This will be Tony’s sixth trip to the Galápagos. Tony currently lives in the greater Orlando, Florida, area, where he also does studio photography with his brother.

CAROLINA LARREA ANGERMEYER, NATURALIST GUIDEAs a member of the pioneering Angermeyer family, Carolina has a long heritage in the world of conservation in the Galápagos. With a degree in biology, Carolina has been a guide in the Galápagos since 2008, earning her guiding license from the Galápagos National Park. Among the work she’s done in the area—including scuba diving training courses and environmental education programs—she was the scientific advisor for one of the episodes in the BBC documentary South Pacif ic. She currently resides in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island and speaks Spanish and English, as well as some French and German.

CECIBEL GUERRERO, NATURALIST GUIDEWhen 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 “Ceci” Guerrero is no exception. Originally from Ecuador, Ceci has been a guide in the Galápagos since 2001, having obtained her license as a Level III Naturalist Guide by the Galápagos National Park Service and the Charles Darwin Research Station. After taking a short break from guiding to start a family, she returned to the Galápagos in 2008 to continue her work in the place she loves the most. An avid snorkeler and scuba diver, Ceci has a real enthusiasm for sharing this special, unique, and magical place with our guests. “I feel blessed and honored to work in one of the most pristine places on earth,” she says.

Trip Leaders

17800-368-2794 | 510-558-2488 | info@wildernesstravel.com

Arrival & DepartureA list of required documents (passport, visas, etc.) will be sent you in the welcome packet, which is sent to you directly upon confirming your reservation for the trip. Please feel free to call if you would like this information before booking air arrangements.

ARRIVAL Oro VerdeGuayaquil, Ecuador

Date: Day 1 Suggested arrival time: anytime before 3:00 pm if possible *Hotel check-in is at 2:00 pm.Suggested Arrival Airport:Guayaquil, Ecuador (airport code: GYE)

Flights from the U.S. typically arrive in the late evening. Upon arrival, you will be met by a hotel representative (as you exit Customs) and be transferred to the hotel by complimentary airport shuttle.

DEPARTUREOro VerdeGuayaquil, Ecuador

Date: Day 17Suggested departure time: anytimeSuggested Airport for DepartureGuayaquil, Ecuador (airport code: GYE)*

*Hotel check-out is by 12:00 pm. Most flights depart for the U.S. in the early morning, but if your departing flight isin the evening we 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.

EXTENSIONSPlease note that if you are adding a post-trip extension in Ecuador, you will fly home from Quito (airport code: UIO) and will need a flight from Galápagos through to Quito (rather than Guayaquil).

INTERNAL FLIGHTS GUAYAQUIL/GALÁPAGOSPlease note that your internal Guayaquil/Galápagos round-trip flights will be issued and distributed by our local agent in Ecuador (the airfare will appear on your final Wilderness Travel invoice).

INTERNATIONAL AIR TRAVEL Trip members are responsible for making their own international air arrangements to and from Latin America. The following carriers typically have the most convenient schedules for this tour:

American Airlines Lan Airlines800-433-7300 866-435-9526www.aa.com www.lan.com

United Airlines 800-864-8331 www.united.com

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.

Please do not purchase your tickets until you are confirmed on the trip. 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.

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Trip DetailsWHAT THE TRIP IS LIKEThe trip is rated Level 1+. Trips that are rated 1 are non-camping trips with optional walks and little elevation gain or loss. The + indicates that this trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of this level. We feel this trip is appropriate for anyone in good health who is physically active and enjoys regular moderate walks and hikes, but we ask you to consider the following factors before choosing this trip: 

Shore ExcursionsTo get ashore each day you will be transfer from the Mary Anne onto our Zodiac (the small boat that brings you ashore) and stepping out of the Zodiac to go ashore. Passengers are required to wear life jackets when traveling in the Zodiac. Getting on 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 during this maneuver, but it nonetheless can often feel tricky depending on the amount of ocean swell.

Shore landings are either “dry” (where there are rocks or wooden piers to step onto when you disembark from the Zodiac) or “wet” (which involves stepping out of the Zodiac into a foot or so of surf and wading to shore). Getting out of the Zodiac for a dry landing is occasionally tricky even though a crew member will be there to assist, 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 into shallow surf, possibly up to your knees or higher if you disembark just as a wave comes in, so it is important that you have the agility for this. Of course, our boat staff will be on hand to assist with landings.

Hikes/walks on the Galápagos Islands are not long (up to 3 miles), but they often involve uneven ground, either on dry lava, which can be quite sharp if you fall, on rocky trails with uneven boulders, or on sandy beaches. 

Swimming/SnorkelingTrip members on any Galápagos trip should be able to swim and ideally have previous snorkeling experience. The itinerary includes snorkeling excursions on most days and they are a major attraction for any visit to the islands. Please consult both our office and your Trip Leader aboard the boat if you have any concerns about swimming and snorkeling.

Most of our snorkeling is in water that is between 10 to 40 feet deep, but if conditions allow, we may offer open-ocean snorkeling near a remote 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 and 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 those spots where you are completely comfortable. If you are not a strong swimmer or have little experience snorkeling, you might prefer to bring your own personal flotation device (PFD) rather than rely on the cumbersome on-board life jackets.

To get in the water, you will slide off the side of the Zodiac and into the water. Getting back in the Zodiac will require climbing up a small metal ladder attached to the side of the Zodiac. The seaman in charge of the Zodiac will help, but it is impossible for him to just pull you out of the water—you have to be prepared to do most of the work under your own power.

While normally a good variety of snorkeling equipment is available on the Mary Anne, if you are a particularly serious snorkeler, we highly recommend bringing your own snorkel, mask, and possibly even fins to assure a proper fit. A proper fit of your mask is critical for keeping water out and allowing you good vision underwater. There is no scuba diving available on our Galápagos trips. Our boats 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. However, everyone’s tolerance level is different and most prefer to use a wetsuit. Complimentary shorty wetsuits are available on board for your use. If you easily get cold, you may prefer a full-length wetsuit (you will need to bring your own from home). Many people wear a t-shirt while snorkeling to protect their arms and backs from sunburn. The backs of the legs are also prone to sunburn, so some people might want to swim in lightweight tights or leggings, or purchase “skins” (lycra bodysuits sold at dive shops).

19800-368-2794 | 510-558-2488 | info@wildernesstravel.com

LIFE ON BOARDYou should understand that this is not a “luxury cruise,” but once you have adjusted to boat living, you will find this to be one of the most pleasant journeys imaginable. The naturalist guides are superbly trained. Food served on board is delicious and varied, often supplemented by fresh fish. Cold beer, liquor, and soft drinks are available for purchase (you can run a tab and settle up at the end of the cruise). The yacht has a small selection of liquor, so if you want more than a small amount or a special brand, you can bring your own or make a stop at the duty-free store before leaving the US. Linens, blankets, and towels are supplied.

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 for the morning hike. On return to the boat, there may be a chance to snorkel or swim before a multi-course lunch is served. After lunch, the yacht sometimes 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 pm. After a cocktail on deck and a relaxing dinner, evenings are for photo discussions by the Trip Leader.

BEVERAGES ABOARD THE MARY ANNEFiltered water and fruit juices are complimentary on board, and a glass of beer, wine, or a soft drink is complimentary with each meal. Additional beer, liquor, and soft drinks are available for purchase (you can run a tab and settle up at the end of the cruise).

PROTECTING THE GALÁPAGOSWilderness Travel is proud to be a founding member of the International Galápagos Tour Operators Association (IGTOA), which is dedicated to the conservation of these extraordinary islands. IGTOA encourages Ecuadorian government action for lasting protection of the islands and advocates responsible, low impact travel and high professional standards for tour operators in the islands. We also support the Galápagos Conservancy, which supports and funds the important conservation and educational work of the Charles Darwin Foundation and the Galápagos National Park Service.

GALÁPAGOS CLIMATEBecause Ecuador is on the equator, there are 12 hours of daylight year-round. The Galápagos climate is influenced by two oceanic currents: the cold Humboldt Current and the warm tropical current from the Gulf of Panama. Consequently, there are two seasons as the currents alternate in strength: January to May/June, the warmer months, and May/June to December, the cooler months.

During January to May/June, the climate is typically tropical, warm and pleasant with occasional short rain showers. The ocean is the warmest for snorkeling and the seas are calmer. February usually has the highest sea temperatures, while March often has the highest air temperatures. During the cooler months, May/June to December, there are overcast skies due to a high fog called the “garua.” The air and sea temperatures are cooler. “Shorty” wetsuits are especially recommended for this season, but are always appropriate if you want to be in the water for extended periods.

A SEASONAL CALENDAR OF THE GALÁPAGOSThere is always something amazing to see and do, no matter what month you visit. Courtship displays, nesting, and rearing of juveniles of various species overlap a period of several months. For example, mating season for Galápagos sea lions lasts from May to January (and snorkeling with playful sea lions is a delight all year). Below is a general outline of things you may see during your trip in November/December:

November: The seas are calm, with water temperatures gradually getting warmer, allowing better visibility for snorkelers. Sea lion pups, now about three or four months old, can be very active in the waters in November and are very curious. They love to investigate visiting snorkelers.

December: As the waters warm up, green sea turtles begin their mating rituals and the eggs of the giant tortoises start to hatch. On Española, the juvenile waved albatrosses begin to leave their nests. Migratory birds and some whales will be visiting the Galápagos on their way south for the winter at this time of year.

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Please be advised that California has established a Travel Consumer Restitution Fund under the California Seller of Travel Law that took effect January 1, 1996. This fund is designed to protect consumers from unscrupulous practices by discount airfare ticket sellers or air charter operators. Unfortunately, this law does not cover non-California residents and, even in the case of California residents, it does not cover any foreign travel where the foreign “providers of transportation or travel services” are not in compliance with the Sellers of Travel Law (compliance being defined as registered as a Seller of Travel in California and a participant in the Travel Consumer Restitution Fund). Thus none of Wilderness Travel’s tours qualify and we are required by law to advise each client that they are not covered by the California Travel Consumer Restitution Fund. California law requires sellers of travel to maintain a trust account or bond. This business has a trust account. California Seller of Travel #100769640

While as accurate as possible at the time of printing, this itinerary should be considered an approximate indication of the schedule and scope of activities and trip routing, rather than an inflexible schedule of events; it is subject to change due to circumstances beyond our control. This trip is subject to the Limitation of Liability and all the terms and conditions as detailed in the General Information section of the Wilderness Travel Catalog.

WILDERNESS TRAVEL HAS BEEN AWARDED:Voted #1 Tour Operator: AFAR Magazine

Best Outfitter in the World Award: Outside Magazine World’s Best Awards: Travel + Leisure, 9-time winner

Trip of the Year: Outside Magazine, 9-time winnerBest Adventure Travel Companies: National Geographic Adventure, 3-time winner

50 Tours of a Lifetime: National Geographic Traveler, 9 years in a row