Galapagos & Amazon (Archipel I)
Experience Overview
Spend a week up high and down low in the Amazon, looking for giant otters, sloth, monkeys, caiman and many colourful species of bird. By contrast, the volcanic islands of the Galapagos offer a very different encounter: Sea lions scatter the beaches, fearless Marine iguanas find camouflage on blackened rocks and countless birds nest in the cliffs above.
Profile
— Accommodation: 11 Superior nights (7 catamaran, 4 hotel), 3 Classic nights (lodge) — Travel by internal flight, catamaran, canoe and minibus — Group normally 4 to 16 plus local naturalist guide
At a Glance
— Accommodation: 11 Superior nights (7 catamaran, 4 hotel), 3 Classic nights (lodge) — Travel by internal flight, catamaran, canoe and minibus — Group normally 4 to 16 plus local naturalist guide
Trip For You
This trip has been graded Activity Level 1 (Easy) with a Safari rating of 5. Visit our Wildlife Holidays page for more on our Wildlife ratings. For more information on our trip gradings please visit the Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.
This trip is great for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and those with an interest in history or geology. Though you do not need to be particularly fit, there will be some walking on rough ground and sharp volcanic rocks due to the volcanic nature of the Galapagos Islands. The ability to withstand high temperatures and to swim will maximise your enjoyment of the trip. Due to local regulations, we have specific time slots for making our landings and site visits. There is usually very little disruption to the schedule, but this can mean little room for deviation in the event of poor weather or other circumstances.
Landings: Each day in the Galapagos will feature a mixture of walking, snorkelling and exploring the islands by boat. To get closer to the designated landing sites on each of the islands, we disembark into small pangas (motorised dinghies). Landings are divided into two types – wet and dry. For dry landings, the panga will take you right up to a landing stage or rocky outcrop where you can disembark without getting wet. However, where there is no landing stage, the panga will stop close to a beach and you will be expected to walk through shallow water (generally no more than ankle-deep) to the shore. The leader will always advise on conditions prior to leaving and it is possible to skip any excursion if you would rather relax on the boat.
Snorkelling: There are plenty of snorkelling opportunities in the Galapagos and this is one of the best ways to experience the marine life. A mask and snorkel will reveal an exciting underwater world with sea lions, rays, turtles, marine iguanas, and a colourful array of fish. On most days, there will be one or two snorkelling sessions. Snorkelling in the Galapagos does not require any special skills; however, at times, you will be snorkelling in open water where there are fairly strong currents. Before going into the water, the guide will evaluate the strength of the currents and the general sea condition to ensure they are right for a safe and enjoyable activity. The dinghy will remain very close at all times; if you get tired or feel like coming out of the water, you only have to raise your arm and they will pick you up so you can rest for a while before going back in or stay in the dinghy until it is time to return to the boat. Snorkelling equipment (snorkel, fins and masks) is provided; however, it is advisable to wear a wetsuit, which not only protects you from the cold but also makes floating much easier without as much effort.
Travellers: We offer this Galapagos cruise in conjunction with our Ecuadorian partners, and Exodus participants will join an international group, not all of whom have booked through Exodus. Occasionally some of these may be younger than Exodus’ minimum age for this trip.
Deposit terms
At the time of booking, we will ask you for the standard Exodus deposit plus an extra 10% of the trip cost to secure your space on the boat. If for any reason we are unable to secure the space and we have to cancel the trip, you will receive a full refund.
Cancellation terms
Due to the nature of this trip, it has slightly different cancellation charges to those listed in the standard Exodus Booking Conditions. After booking, if cancelling your travel arrangements, you will have to pay cancellation charges as follows:
From 90 days to 65 days before departure: loss of deposit (20%)64 days or less (or failure to join the trip): 100% of the trip cost
Islands visited on this itinerary:
Santa Fe: The dense vegetation of Santa Fe comprises some of the largest species of cactus, including a forest of prickly pear. Large numbers of the endemic Santa Fe land iguana reside here – one of the largest land iguanas on the islands.
South Plaza: A tiny island formed of lava and carpeted with cacti and plants that give it a luxurious red surface. There is abundant bird life here (including tropic birds and swallow-tailed gulls), plus a large number of land and marine iguanas that feed on the cacti.
San Cristóbal: The easternmost island of the archipelago and the first landing point for Charles Darwin in 1835. The provincial capital of the Galapagos Islands, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, is on San Cristóbal, and the town is home to the excellent Galapagos Interpretation Centre. Popular sites for visitors include El Junco Lake (one of the few freshwater lagoons in the archipelago), Frigatebird Hill (unsurprisingly named for the large colonies of magnificent and great frigatebirds), and Kicker Rock, a towering split rock that rises more than 330ft (100m) from the ocean. The highland cloud forests provide a natural habitat for giant tortoises. Huge numbers of sea lions are also present on San Cristóbal and nearby Isla Lobos, reachable by boat, is a big nesting site for blue-footed boobies.
Santa Cruz: The second-largest island in the archipelago, Santa Cruz is home to Puerto Ayora – where most Galapagos ships are docked for embarkation – and the Charles Darwin Research Station, which conducts tortoise research programmes and is heavily involved in the management and conservation of the islands along with the national park authorities. The Santa Cruz highlands are much greener than the dry lowlands of the other islands and are home to freely roaming tortoises. In common with the rest of the group, Santa Cruz has many interesting volcanic features, such as pit craters and lava tunnels, and there is also a flamingo lagoon at Cerro Dragón.
Fernandina: The third-largest island, Fernandina is an active shield volcano noted for its fine examples of aa and pahoehoe lava flows. The Fernandina ecosystem is remarkably untouched, and the island has never been invaded by foreign species and predators. As a result, the cormorants here had no real need to fly and gradually evolved into flightless birds with small wings and feet that are extremely well-adapted to swimming. Land iguanas have also flourished due to the lack of predators – the island is home to the largest colony in the Galapagos.
Isabela: One of the youngest and most volcanically active islands with stark lava fields blackening the landscape, Isabela is larger than all the other islands combined. The lunar-like interior is perfect for an unusual trekking experience, and the cloud forest is home to five subspecies of the giant Galapagos tortoise. Marine life here is rich and varied, and it’s possible to see stingrays, white-tipped reef sharks and turtles in the mangroves and submerged lava tunnels, plus playful dolphins and the odd glimpse of breaching humpback whales.
Santiago: Home of the Galapagos fur seal, which likes the rocky shoreline and shady spots of the island. Around 30,000 to 40,000 live in the Galapagos, and the majority are found close to Puerto Egas, either on the rocks or on its black beaches. The island is a good place to see Galapagos hawks and Darwin finches, and there’s a popular snorkelling site called Chinese Hat where penguins, rays, turtles and playful sea lion pups reside.
Group Description
At the Napo Wildlife Centre, a wildlife guide or biologist will act as your main leader and be accompanied by a leader from a local tribe who may not speak English.
In the Galapagos you'll be accompanied by an English-speaking guide registered with the Galapagos National Park service. In Quito there will be a local, English-speaking guide.
Eating Drinking
All breakfasts, 10 lunches and 10 dinners included. On board meals are plentiful with a wide choice of international and local cuisine. Breakfasts will usually consist of cheese, meats, eggs, cereal, toasts, yoghurts, and fruits. Snacks are provided mid-morning and mid-afternoon, and for lunches and dinner soup usually precedes the main course. Alcoholic drinks are available on board (approx. US$4 per beer, US$32.50 for a bottle of wine, around US10 for selected cocktails) and the crew request that you do not bring your own alcohol with you. Drinking water, tea, coffee and juice is freely available at no additional charge. At Napo Wildlife Centre, breakfast is a large buffet of cereals, fresh fruit and breads with cheese, eggs and jams. Lunch and dinner are usually three courses and served by a waiter. The lodge has a well-stocked bar. Vegetarians and vegans can be well catered for on this holiday - please do inform us before departure of any special dietary requests so that our local team can be well prepared.
Transportation
In Quito, transport is in private air-conditioned minibuses, and we use internal flights to reach the Amazon and Galapagos.
At Napo Wildlife Centre motorised canoes are used to navigate the main river and paddled dug-out canoes on the smaller tributaries and streams.
In the Galapagos we use a motor yacht for our main navigation and small semi-inflatable pangas (motorised boats or Zodiacs) for landings.
There are extensive walks in the Galapagos Islands, as well as a variety of long and short hikes at the Napo Wildlife Centre (all longer walks can be avoided if required).
Joining Instructions
Key information
Start hotel: La Casona de la Ronda Hotel, Juan de Dios Morales Oe1-160 y, Quito 170405, Ecuador
Phone: +593 2-228-7538
Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today
Airport: Mariscal Sucre Quito International Airport (UIO)
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately 45 minutes’ drive from the airport. Exodus provides free arrival transfers to the start hotel from the airport for all customers. If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
The trip ends at Guayaquil Airport (GYE), where it's possible to connect with international flights from 6pm onwards. Please speak to your sales representative if you need more information.
Please note, unless specified otherwise, the transfer will be to the start (or pre-tour) hotel and will be on the date on which the tour starts; transfers to other hotels in the same city and/or on different dates may attract an extra charge. Transfers should be booked with your sales representative at least two weeks before the tour starts.
Transfer Details
Exodus offers FREE airport arrival transfers for any flight for this trip, for both Land Only and Flight Inclusive clients, so no matter which flight you choose to arrive on you will be met and transferred to your hotel. We do not offer free departure transfers on this trip because the tour ends at Guayaquil airport. All those taking advantage of the free airport arrival transfers must provide full flight details in advance; unless specified otherwise, the transfer will be to the Exodus start (or pre-tour) hotel; transfers to other hotels in the same city may attract an extra charge; transfers may be shared with other Exodus customers on the same flight, or on a flight with similar arrival times.
Weather Information
In Quito and the highlands, it should be warm by day and generally dry. Maximum daytime temperatures are almost constant throughout the year at 20ºC, nights 8ºC. Some rain can be expected in February to May and October to November but storms, though heavy, are generally short, and Quito is considered to have quite a pleasant climate. It is possible to visit the Galapagos at any time of year, but seasonal variations do affect what you see and there are climatic changes to be aware of. The weather is controlled by the two main ocean currents of the region, the Humboldt, bringing cold water from the Antarctic, and El Nino, which brings tropical water from the Gulf of Panama. How close to Galapagos they converge (which varies from year to year) is the key to the weather. 'Dry season' Generally speaking, late May to early December is the cooler 'dry' season. In this period, it is not necessarily dry, as there is a persistent light mist (garua) and often light drizzle, and the higher mountain slopes are covered in cloud and fog or rain. At this time the winds are in the southeast and are higher than at other times, so seas can sometimes be choppy, and anyone worried about seasickness might be better advised to avoid it. Daytime maximum temperatures lie between 27ºC and 31ºC, the cooler months being July to November. In July and August, the fairly strong winds introduce a chill factor, and it can feel quite cold at nights, though throughout the year the official night temperatures vary between 19ºC and 24ºC. 'Wet season' Depending on how close the convergence of the two currents comes to Galapagos, there may or may not be a wet season from January to April or May. Approximately every seven years the El Nino current actually hits the islands and there will be heavy rains in these months. In other years rain usually falls sporadically from otherwise clear skies. The ocean temperatures are higher, with generally calm seas and strong sunshine: pleasant, but potentially very hot. Apart from an El Nino year, the weather is usually better from December/January to April/May than at other times even if there is some rain, and most people would regard these months as the best time to go. There are plenty of wildlife highlights throughout the year: January: Nesting land birds; Green sea turtles arrive to lay eggs on the islands beaches; land iguana’s start breeding on Isabela.February: Nesting Marine iguanas on Santa Cruz; Greater flamingos start nesting on Floreana. March: The bright red throat pouches of frigatebirds are inflated during mating season on Genovesa and San Cristobal. April: Huge numbers of Waved albatross on Española displaying courtship rituals; eggs of Green sea turtles begin to hatch; land iguana eggs hatch on Isabela. May: Courtship of Blue-footed boobies begins on North Seymour; Waved albatross on Española start laying eggs. June: Giant tortoises migrate to the lowlands and start nesting; migrating birds stop in the Galapagos to rest; migrating Humpback whales can often be seen around the western islands. July: Dolphins and whales are more likely to be seen around the western islands; Blue-footed boobies on Española start breeding. August: Nazca boobies nest on Genovesa Island; Sea lions start giving birth to pups. September: Penguins seen in the water when snorkelling around Bartolome. October: Galapagos Fur seals start mating; Blue-footed boobies start raising chicks. November: Curious Sea lion pups found in the water amongst snorkelers. December: Mating Green sea turtles; Waved albatross chicks fledge.
Spending Money
You should carry your money in US dollars cash. Other currencies can be difficult to exchange and may incur a poor exchange rate. Obtaining change for larger denomination banknotes (US$100 and US$50) can be difficult. Try to carry a number of small notes (US$1 or US$5) as many small businesses and taxis do not carry large amounts of change.
On this trip there is a compulsory Galapagos Tax of US$200, which can only be paid locally in cash (US dollars) and will be collected by the National Park Service on arrival at San Cristóbal. In addition, all visitors to the Galapagos are required to obtain an immigration control card (Ingala card) in mainland Ecuador – these cost US$20 per person and will be supplied and paid for locally in cash (US dollars). Galapagos taxes are subject to increase without notice, and any such increase will be collected in Quito or San Cristóbal.
All food is provided in the Galapagos. For the days in Quito, we provide breakfast only and you should budget roughly US$10-US$15 for lunch and US$15-US$20 for main evening meals (22% tax included). It is possible to eat more cheaply or more expensively than this, and the cost estimates don’t include alcohol. Tipping is customary in restaurants and cafes throughout Ecuador, and we recommend leaving a tip between 10% and 15% of the total bill. Drinks and incidentals are quite expensive in the Galapagos as everything is imported from the mainland.
Free-to-use snorkelling equipment (mask, snorkel and fins) is available on board but wetsuits are charged at US$8 per day. Additional fees apply if the equipment is damaged. Alternatively, bring your own equipment to ensure a good fit.
Optional excursions
The following optional excursions are available from Quito. Arrangements and payment can be organised on arrival subject to availability.
— Otavalo day tour (Saturday only) on a sharing basis, approximately US$90 per person — Cotopaxi National Park day tour (Thursday only) on a sharing basis, approximately US$90 per person — Mindo Cloud Forest day tour on a private basis, approximately US$236 per person (minimum of two people required) — Quito city tour on a sharing basis (three hours approximately) US$33 per person — Equatorial monument tour (three hours approximately) US$22 per person — Bellavista Cloud Forest day tour approximately US$155 (one client), US$147 per person (two clients), US$131 per person (three clients).
Tipping
Tipping is an optional but very much customary practice in Ecuador and forms part of the service culture. Due to the dominance of US visitors in the destination, tips are reasonably high and this is likely to add up during your stay. Please remember that you are never under any obligation to give a tip and you should only do so when you are happy with a service you have received.
To show appreciation to local guides on the mainland, a tip of around US$3-5 per day from each group member is sufficient. Drivers and other local staff may be given closer to US$1-2 in tips per day. You may want to form and manage a 'tip kitty' with the other members of the group to facilitate tips.
By definition, gratuities are not something we can include in the tour cost. It is also usual for groups to tip the boat crew in addition to the guide. It would be reasonable for each group member to contribute about US$20-25 a day for the crew and staff in the Galapagos. You may also wish to tip the naturalist guides directly and this is at your discretion, but US$10 per person per day would be a good gratuity.
At the Napo Wildlife Centre, you will have two leaders - one is a wildlife guide or biologist who will speak English and the other will be from the local tribe and may not speak English but is highly skilled at spotting and identifying wildlife. The two working together should provide an excellent service and if you think both do a good job, then a tip of about US$20 per person to each leader for your stay would be well received. You may also wish to leave a tip for the other lodge staff and a central box is left for this (US$10-15 per person per day is a good tip).
Highlights
— Stay in the Napo Wildlife Centre, a community-owned lodge within the UNESCO Biosphere of Yasuni National Park — Visit parrot clay licks, explore the lake by dug-out canoe and walk through primary rainforest — Seven nights aboard a catamaran exploring the Galapagos Islands - a maximum of 16 clients on board — Snorkel with iridescent fish, playful Sea lions and turtles — Fantastic on-board service with experienced naturalist guide
Trip Details
Product Code: 6461
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: equired).
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Exodus Travel
Supplier Code: WAJ
Starts: Quito, Ecuador
Finishes: Quito, Ecuador
Duration: 15 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Unknown
Includes
— All breakfasts, 10 lunches, 10 dinners — All accommodation — All transport and listed activities — Tour leader throughout — Flights from London (if booking incl. flights) — Arrival and departure transfers — Snorkel equipment (mask, snorkel and fins) available free of charge on boardAccommodation
Catamaran, jungle lodge and hotelOn this trip, we spend: Four nights in a hotel (normally Hotel Casona de la Ronda)Three nights in a jungle lodge at Napo Wildlife Centre, where you stay in individual wooden and concrete cabins. The centre is small with only 12 cabins.We also spend seven nights on a catamaran (see below for more) Worth knowing Single rooms can be arranged for a supplement for the four hotel nights in Quito and the three nights at the Napo Wildlife Centre, subject to availability – please enquire at the time of booking.Unfortunately, we cannot offer single cabins on board the boat in the Galapagos, and you will be paired up with another traveller of the same sex for the seven nights on board.
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $16,150 ($1,077 /day)
Itinerary
The adventure begins in Quito, aim to arrive at the hotel this afternoon/evening. Free transfers are available for all clients. A local guide will welcome you to Quito and explain the schedule for the next few days. Accommodation: Hotel Casona de la Ronda (or similar)
We have a half-day city tour of Quito, one of the smaller and more attractive of the capitals of South America - 2,850m high in the western cordillera of the Andes. Quito is the second highest capital in the world, and as always at altitude, it is a good idea not to do anything too strenuous at first! We explore the colonial centre with its narrow streets and hanging balconies. The tour usually includes the Independence Plaza, flanked by the Presidential and the Archbishop palaces as well as La Compañia Church with its impressive gold leaf decorations. A short drive brings us to El Panecillo Hill for a panoramic view of the city and to admire the 45m high statue of the ‘Virgen de Quito’, the only original Madonna with wings. Please note that entrance fees are not included. Accommodation: Hotel Casona de la Ronda (or similar)
Transfer to Quito airport this morning for a 40-minute flight from Quito to Coca. A short drive takes us to the dock where we board a large, motorized canoe for a two-hour ride down-stream. At the entrance to the Napo Wildlife Centre reserve, we transfer to smaller, paddled dug-out canoes so as not to disturb the wildlife. This paddle can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours depending on what sightings we have (we may have the chance to spot Giant otters, along with monkeys and countless bird species including toucans, parrots, and macaws). The final part of the journey involves crossing the spectacular Anangu Lake and arriving at the lodge to receive a welcome drink and briefing. Accommodation: Napo Wildlife Centre
Return to Quito the same way we arrived - paddled canoe down the creek, motorised canoe back up the river to Coca and then a short drive to the airport for the flight to Quito. Accommodation: Hotel Casona de la Ronda (or similar)
We include a free day in Quito to allow time for any delays coming back from the rainforest. An optional excursion to the cloud forest can be organised for this day at the start of the tour. Accommodation: Hotel Casona de la Ronda (or similar)
Morning: Fly to Galapagos Transfer to Quito Airport and fly to Baltra Airport in the Galapagos Islands. Upon arrival, you pass through the airport inspection point to make sure no foreign plants or animals are introduced to the island, and to pay the national park entrance fee. Your guide will meet you, help you collect your luggage and escort you on a short bus ride to the harbour where a dinghy will take you to the yacht. Afternoon: Bachas Beach (Santa Cruz) This is a lovely bay with soft, white coral sand frequently visited by egg-laying sea turtles – watch your step! After enjoying leisure time at the beach, you could explore a small lagoon hidden behind bushes, where occasionally it is possible to observe flamingos, black-necked stilts and whimbrels. You might also see rusty barges, which were abandoned here after the Second World War when the USA rented this island as a strategic point to protect the Panama Channel from Japan. Accommodation: Archipel I
Morning: Prince Philip's Steps Genovesa has a royal touch. Follow in the footsteps of Prince Philip – who admired the Galapagos for many years – and visit this favourite birding spot, home to the largest breeding colonies of red-footed and nazca boobies and short-eared owls, which hunt on foot. Afternoon: Darwin Bay One of the outer islands and among the most exclusive spots on the Galapagos, Genovesa is well worth last night's longer navigation. This compact site displays the varied coastal ecosystems of the Galapagos in miniature – nearly too much for a single day. Accommodation: Archipel I
Morning: Bartolomé This tiny volcano islet is just recently born out of fire. Enter its wild setting of spatter cones and craters and admire beautiful panoramas of the Galapagos. Afternoon: Sullivan Bay (Santiago) Sullivan Bay is incomparable to any other site; setting foot on the recently solidified lava flow is like walking on the moon. Accommodation: Archipel I
Morning: El Chato Reserve – Twin Craters El Chato Reserve is a protected area and part of the Galapagos National Park, extending from Cerro El Chato as far down as the southwestern coast of Santa Cruz Island. Afternoon: Fausto Llerena Breeding Center On a tour of the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center, you can see the tortoises of Española Island, ending in the tortoise exhibit corral. Tortoises of this corral are accustomed to humans – an excellent chance to capture a photo for your wall back home. Accommodation: Archipel I
Morning: Cormorant Point and Devil’s Crown The peninsula of Cormorant Point forms the extreme north cape of Floreana, which exists out of smaller volcanic cones, covered by a tropical dry forest of palo santo. At the landing beach, you will be welcomed by a small Galapagos sea lion colony. The green sand on this beach contains a high percentage of glassy olivine crystals, which have been blown out by the surrounding tuff cones. The flour-sand beach on the southern side of the peninsula is made of even finer white-coral sand, which feels very smooth on the feet. Parrotfish have pulverised it, grinding the calcareous skeletons of living coral. You can spot schools of stingrays who love the sandy bottom to hide. During the first months of the year, Pacific green turtles come ashore to bury their eggs. Devil’s Crown is one of the best snorkelling spots in the Galapagos due to the coral reef in its centre, which attracts a lot of marine life. Here you can spot Galapagos penguins, sea lions, sea turtles, many different colourful fish and even dolphins. The current can be a bit strong sometimes, so it should not be attempted by novice swimmers. Afternoon: Post Office Bay and Baroness Lookout Historically, this site was the location of a wooden barrel placed by an 18th-century whaling ship crew; letters placed inside were collected and delivered by sailors returning home. Tourists still leave thousands of letters here today and many still reach their destination. You can also relax on the beach at Post Office Bay, where you may see Galapagos sea lions, Pacific green turtles, golden rays and Galapagos penguins (this is the only place in the southeastern archipelago where penguins reside). You can also climb Baroness Lookout, a small basaltic cone, and enjoy paradisiacal views of the coastline. This viewpoint was the favourite spot the eccentric baroness and self-proclaimed Empress of Galapagos, Eloisa von Wagner, who was one of the first settlers on Floreana. Accommodation: Archipel I
Morning: Osborn Islet and Gardner Bay The striking white beach at Gardner Bay is an important breeding site for Pacific green turtles. However, without a doubt, its main attraction is the Galapagos sea lion colony. Females stay year-round in this nursery, suckling their pups until they are three years' old, although they start to fish at five months. During the breeding and mating season, the colony becomes even bigger. Afternoon: Suarez Point The west tip of Española is a dream for birdwatchers and photographers. Feel as though you're within an exciting nature documentary and hike a short distance from colourful marine iguanas. Accommodation: Archipel I
Morning: Pitt Point Two wind-sculpted tuff cones at Pitt Point constitute the easternmost end of the Galapagos and were the first sight of land for the crew of Darwin’s HMS Beagle. Afternoon: Witch Hill Enjoy a leisurely afternoon in Witch Hill's crescent-shaped beach of soft powdery sand. Accommodation: Archipel I
Morning: Lobos Islet (San Cristobal) and Transfer to San Cristobal Airport The Lobos Islet’s beach harbours a colony of Galapagos sea lions. As in other colonies in the archipelago, you can approach nurturing females within a few metres. In the breeding season, this colony is also visited by territorial males, defending and mating the harem on their part of the beach. This low islet is home to more than just Galapagos sea lions, two other emblematic species breed here: male blue-footed boobies and great frigate birds who try to impress the females (and tourists) with clumsy dances, heaving their striking blue feet or blowing up their balloon-sized scarlet pouches. Assisted by the naturalist guide and some crew members, the dinghy will bring you and your luggage to San Cristobal, where we take the airport shuttle. From here, we fly to Guayaquil where it's possible to connect with international flights from 6pm onwards.
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Tour Operator
Exodus Travel
It’s all about adventure That is what Exodus was founded upon 50 years ago, and what the company is still all about. Discovering countries, cultures, environments, cities, mountain ranges, deserts, coasts and jungles; exploring this amazing planet we all live on. At Exodus, we know what makes you tick when it comes to holidays. It’s a desire shared by so many others. A yearning to visit new places and come home with a real sense of what they’re all about. This means delving into local traditions, cultures, cuisine, lifestyles – anything that contributes to its unique identity. At the same time, we always remember that we are only guests. So we travel courteously and respectfully, in smaller groups to minimise our impact, to ensure that every Exodus holiday is a beneficial experience for everyone involved. This is a philosophy we take with us around the world, helping you reach some incredible destinations on 500 itineraries across over 90 separate countries. We also strive to provide as much flexibility and choice as we possibly can, making it simple for you to experience a very different holiday. Exodus started life on 4 February 1974 when two friends got together to provide an overland truck to travel to the Minaret of Jam, deep in the heart of the Hindu Kush, the most inaccessible of the world’s great monuments. See our history page for more details about how we began and how we have grown over the past 50 years. Never travelled with Exodus before? Visit our New to Exodus page for some useful, first-timer information.
In Business Since 1974
Reviews
Tony Teperek - Traveled, June 2022
Galapagos & Amazon, what a combo! The Napo Lodge Wildlife centre lodges are amazing and very comfortable. Lots of wildlife to see from the open canoe up the various creeks and the easy walking through the jungle. In Galapagos we did the western itinerary (B) this time having done the eastern itinerary 10 years ago. We found the two to be quite different in some ways with noticeably fewer seabirds on this trip compared to 10 years ago although they were slightly different times of year. However this itinerary is much better for penguins and turtles and the flightless cormorant can only be seen on itinerary B. B is said to be better for whales but we didn’t see any – just dolphins. Either way it is a tremendous wildlife experience but don’t expect an idyllic tropical island paradise, the islands can be quite stark and barren and the water is cold despite it being on the equator. Most Inspirational Moment In the Amazon undoubtedly watching a family of giant otters feeding. And in Galapagos it has to be the snorkelling. Thoughts on Group Leader In the Amazon, Guido was extremely knowledgeable and despite the fact that I have a Canon SLR camera with long lens he was able to take picture with my mobile phone that I didn't know it was capable of! In the Amazon Franklin was again very knowledgeable and went out of his way to get my to a Chemist when I had a tummy upset. We had a delayed arrival in Quito due to and cancelled flight and the reps in Quito rearranged our itinerary for us and were most helpful. Advice for Potential Travellers The lodges in the Amazon are amazing but to get there involves nearly 2 hrs of paddling in an open canoe (don't worry the paddling is done for you!) because no engines are allowed in the national park. Ponchos are provided if it rains (and it does) but they are not that effective against a torrential downpour. It rained for the last 20 minutes of our return trip when we left and we were still wet sitting in the airport waiting for our flight back to Quito. Maybe have your own reliable waterproofs available. The trip notes say that Wellington boots are issued but they may not cater for big feet. I am a UK size 12 or even 13 and had no problem, in fact the first pair I tried were too big! In Galapagos we found "Cachalote Explorer" rather a noisy ship, especially when on the move and particularly in the downstairs cabins, and that's most of them. There is quite a lot of moving at night and the sea can have quite a swell on. I thought I'd find sleep difficult but I got used to it. The sea in Galapagos can be pretty cold but wet suits are provided free now - there used to be a charge.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/21/2022
Debi Jones - Traveled, April 2019
What an experience!!!! I hoped for a lot, but expected nothing (especially in the Amazon) but we saw more wildlife than I knew there was! And as for the Galapagos…..Sensational. Holiday of a lifetime and would recommend to anyone. Truly brilliant. Am delighted to have managed to have whittled my photos down to about 650 (and 35 videos!). The Napo Lodge was stunning with fabulous staff but the Cachalotte was possibly even better (though cabin much smaller and less glamorous than lodge). The memories will be something I treasure forever. The organisation from beginning to end made everything so easy and I will definitely be travelling with Exodus again. Most Inspirational Moment Snorkeling with sealions, a turtle and penguin (never having snorkeled before!) And the animals and birds just being truly fearless and natural I could go on.... Thoughts on Group Leader Very pleasant and efficient Advice for Potential Travellers Try snorkeling at home first! I panicked the first 2 times in the water (although it was a deep water snorkel) but after an hour's practice in the shallows I took to it like a penguin to water. And take lots of SD cards! Suggestions Just GO!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/23/2019
Kirsten Andersson - Traveled, April 2019
Met and exceeded expectations Great trip first to Napo then to Galapagos. We were delighted with the quality of service, organization and attention to details. Most Inspirational Moment There were so many moments to choose from. Highlights were swimming with sea lions, watching wave albatrosses mate and watching land iguanas battle for territory. A difficult but natural moment occurred when we watched a boa attack and absorb a parrot Thoughts on Group Leader Group leader in Napo was great. Knowledgeable and highly skilled communicator. Group leader in Galapagos was a nice young man but we could tell he was on one of his last trips. Advice for Potential Travellers Be ready to wake up early and go to bed early. Eat everything they feed you; you’ll either work it off in activities or sweat it out in the heat. Suggestions We were flummoxed and frustrated with the tipping of staff. We found the suggested tip rates to be far too high and we’re concerned that the tips are being used to supplement wages which is not the purpose of a tip. Exodus needs to find a better system. That was the only thing we were very dissatisfied about
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/12/2019
Penelope Becker - Traveled, July 2018
Good trip Went with my 22 year old son July 18 .. flew via Bogotá to Quito on Avianca ..Long transit at Bogotá Airport, recommend buying transit lounge pass, but staff very unhelpful, and on return trip . Quito high altitude and lovely authentic hotel .. restaurant close by , son ate guinea pig ,, and recommend artisan market for Alpaca poncho and Panama hats .Long boat ride to Napo destination and wonderful accommodation in newest palapa on lake edge with outdoor jacuzzi , deck and hammock, but very little free time to relax ..stinky turkey birds …great character and plumage …Canoe rides fab, but not much wildlife can be seen from canoes because of dense undergrowth . Super watchtower at Napo valley for birdwatching ..no good if you can’t do heights, climbed two other watchtowers for amazing views over canopy to see blue macaws and toucans ..best view from watchtowers with scope provided and set up by Eduardo ..also took pics through scope ..can sway a bit with large group up top ..not for the faint hearted ..also saw cayman and river otters from canoe ..managed to get away from noisy Australians by ducking out of village tour , and instead Eduardo took us for a. Jungle trek and climbed watchtower on our own to see blue macaws ..absolutely fantastic . He also presented us with an enormous male crested owl after a trek ..so exciting … back to back excursions, got bitten last night as too tired to be vigilant, blessed the fact we had our vaccinations ..lots of monkeys ..very hard to see ..your own bins an absolute must .. one sloth , through scope ..hard to see ….Very remote location ….parrot licks amazing ..back to Quito and then to Galapagos, fortunately for us we were upgraded to Beluga …lovely boat, no time to rest…daily very early starts ..on and off a panga to islands ..all that you could wish for ..2 more owl, barn in lava cave ..short eared owl on open terrain ..swum with sea lions, lots of turtles, son went diving in washing machine ..not good clarity .ha ha …all the boobies you could wish for ..right next to you .. ..albatross ..nesting ..eggs, chicks tropicbirds , yellow warblers ..finch, Galapagos mockinbird .. marine and land iguanas everywhere ..sea lions ..no penguins ….could see golden rays from cliff top ..a lot of walking ..daily ..extreme snorkelling ..very cold water for me …my shortie not thick enough ..even with rash vest ..too exhausted to do one afternoon on lava island ..thought I would rest in cabin, but staff had a noisy get together ..also rough sea on night journeys ..every night ..barely slept ..big day with tortoises ..returned via night in Guayancil ..more alpaca from market ..and then Bogotá to London ..arrived home totally exhausted ..not enough sleep throughout trip ..good food on board ..took my own snorkel and fins .. saw a juvenile hammerhead from panga on last day around mangroves , juvenile sharks .spotted rays and turtles plentiful ..managed to change cabins for final 3 nights …put in tiny cabin .originally …one porthole and not enough daylight ..make sure you get one with at least 2 portholes ..upstairs cabins open on to seating area ..but best with huge windows ..lots of getting on and off pangas and trekking ..would rate level 2 … came home and slept for a week ……camera with bird watching zoom lens essential Most Inspirational Moment Mating dance of albatross and the albatross nesting site .. Thoughts on Group Leader Good Advice for Potential Travellers Too tired.. in Quito twice but only went to park and city tour ..artisan market ..too tired to go to cloud forest and very expensive ..however managed to see England v Sweden World Cup match .., and also when we were thrashed by Croatia ..there in no internet on the boat but can get on Darwin in cafe Suggestions High energy level needed !
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/15/2018
Eric Watts - Traveled, August 2017
Amazon and Galapagos Excellent wildlife, the snorkeling was amazing – turtles, sea lions and occasional (small) sharks. Good guides. Hectic with early starts and busy schedule. Worst experience was having my bag with all my valuables stolen from the hotel lobby – although we were aware of steet crime we did expect to be safe within the hotel. Most Inspirational Moment Swimming with sea lios Thoughts on Group Leader Good - both of them Advice for Potential Travellers Never let go of your valuables Suggestions It is unfortunate that the risk of theft was understated - it takes a lot of time to replace everything that was taken and the photos are irreplacable
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/15/2017
Ruth Luck - Traveled, August 2016
Amazon and Galápagos Islands This trip surpassed anything I could ever have imagined. The Napo Wildlife Centre is beautiful. The service, accommodation, guiding and sightings were fantastic. An incredible place to stay with some incredible birding. The Cachalote 1 and her crew were just amazing. Kind, generous, knowledgeable and so helpful. I had hurt my neck earlier in the trip and the crew went above and beyond to help me out. Each island brought a new, remarkable landscape with it’s own unique species. The snorkelling was beyond the imagination and our guide was flexible and eager for us to see as much as possible. Most Inspirational Moment Amazon -Being introduced to the entire of the Napo staff, their names, their roles and being given the opportunity to say our thanks to the "backstage" staff you rarely see. Listening to Howler monkeys. Galápagos - sitting on the upper deck of the Cachalote, staring up at the big Southern Hemisphere sky feeling blessed, having just swam with sea lions, sharks and dolphins. Darwin is an incredibly knowledgeable guide who genuinely loves what he does. His excitement is contagious and his ability to find what you want to see is unreal. Thoughts on Group Leader We had 2 guides in the Amazon and both were fantastic at spotting animals and birds as well as being able to identify everything! They were happy to answer questions and spend time with each of the group members. Darwin was our guide in the Galápagos and his knowledge was outstanding. He was approachable, happy to answer questions and keen to adapt to the groups needs. The best thing I could say is that when I return to the Galápagos, I will only go with Darwin and the Cachalote crew. Advice for Potential Travellers Get up early, be adventurous and sit quietly in order to truly appreciate the beauty of your surroundings. Take your snorkel stuff with you on every panga ride (if you are allowed), you just never know when you'll see something amazing. And if you go in August - take seasickness pills (I never got sick and it only took me 2 days to get my sea legs but the seasickness pills saved me) Suggestions A massive thank you for the opportunity to see a part of the world I have always dreamed of. It was more than I ever imagined.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/25/2016
Ethel Robinson - Traveled, February 2015
Galapagos and Amazon What a fantastic adventure! The rain forest was amazing, paddling up the creek to the Napo Wildlife Centre was like going to a different world. The cabanas were lovely, food plentiful and tasty. We saw Giant River Otters twice! Wow! It was the rain forest, so guess what, it rained! (but not all the time.) Cachalote was equally comfortable, if a little cramped, and Cookie produced excellent meals, need to go on a diet now. The walks on the islands were short, but interesting with an abundance of wildlife providing loads of photo opportunities.Snorkeling was brilliant, even for a novice like me. The Hotel Vieja Cuba in Quito was quaint and unusual. Most Inspirational Moment When the boat was surrounded by a pod of minky whales. We could even hear them calling to one another. Thoughts on Group Leader Delfin was informative and knowledgeable, keen and enthusiastic, whilst Fabio had eagle eyes. Together they were amazing. In the Galapogas Christina was equally knowledgeable and as a resident showed her love of the islands. Advice for Potential Travellers Pracice snorkelling and buy a good camera or you will be very left out! Suggestions Having travelled from Manchester via Amsterdam I would have been happier to return from Guayaquil to avoid a day travelling back to Quito to return to Guyaquil the next day and spend another 2.5 hours in the airport there whist plane refuelled and a new crew came aboard,but apart from that it was a wonderful experience and well organised
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/20/2015
Karen Beswick - Traveled, January 2015
Galapagos and Napo Wildlife Centre This trip was unbelievable and hard to put into words to give it justice. I went with no expectations although the reviews I read were good. From the moment we arrived it was an adventure with experiences that can only be described as amazing. From the wildlife to climbing the volcano every moment is one which I will treasure. There is not one thing I can say that is negative. Most Inspirational Moment There are so many it is hard to choose but when you get out of the sea after swimming with a pod of about 100 dolphins and struggle to control your emotions I guess it has to be that but honestly everything had it's own special moment.. to be able to swim with dolphins, turtles, sea lions, penguins, sharks, sea iguanas, and the most amazing fish was a privilege beyond compare. Climbing the volcanoes and seeing the views was equally amazing. Napo was beautiful and the highlight has to be the macaws flying over the canopy as we stood on the tower. We saw lots of parrots and birds. Also several types of monkey, The setting on the lake is beautiful. Thoughts on Group Leader Darwin....well I think he is a merman! Fantastic guy who swam with the most able and then equally came on to the beach to be with the least able. Good sense of humour and very knowledgeable. Could not fault him. Kind and caring without being patronising. In Napo we were guided by Delpin and he was brilliant. Even managed to find a blue frog. Advice for Potential Travellers Book it and extend to Napo Wildlife Centre after. Such a contrast to the Galapagos and equally as amazing. It is an active trip but all abilities are able to go.. the fit and not so fit... Suggestions I honestly can not fault this trip. The food was excellent. The crew on the boat were friendly..just amazing.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/23/2015
Anonymous - Traveled, November 2013
GALAPAGOS & AMAZON A wonderful trip, which combined an exhilerating journey into the Amazon basin and a unique tour of a number of the Galapagos islands on board the Cachalote. Most Inspirational Moment Difficult to pick out just one memory. The Napo Lodge, run by Anangu Kichwa community, is breathtaking. Snorkling with sealions and huge turtles was also a fantastic experience. Cachalote is a wonderful yacht - great atmosphere and the best way to island hop in the Galapagos. Thoughts on Group Leader This trip did not involve just one group leader. The three we met were all excellent. A special mention to Glorio in Quito who helped us find an alternative hotel when we arrived in Quito without accomadation at one o'clock in the morning! Advice for Potential Travellers Take sun protection with a high factor. You will need plenty of protection whilst on the Cachalote. Suggestions Although arrangements had been made to be picked up at the Quito airport, we discovered that Gloria, Exodus's representative in Quito, was not expecting us. Fortunately we had arrived 15 minutes before the group she was waiting for. Neither had we been allocated a room at the Vieja Cuba! Quite a shock at 1.00 a.m. Fortunately again Gloria was on hand to help us out.But had we arrived at Quito airport half an hour later we would have had problems.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/15/2013
Anonymous - Traveled, May 2013
GALAPAGOS & AMAZON A fantastic two and half weeks. The organisation of all the guides was superb, excellent food through out the holiday and the wildlife sightseeing in both the Amazonian rainforest and on and around the Galapagos Islands was sensational. Most Inspirational Moment The mini-bus having to stop and then squeeze past a giant tortoise on the track road on our first tour on Santa Cruz.Snorkelling with sea lions swimming close by, and having to "make way" for a large turtle as it ascended to the surface for air, I was floating directly above the turtle looking down while it was feeding.Walking past sea lions basking on beaches, and laying down beside them (not too near!!) to have the customary tourist photograph taken.Diving off the Cachalote yacht into the Pacific Ocean. Thoughts on Group Leader All the leaders were superb. Juan (Galapagos islands) was very good and attentive to detail and very informative about the wild life. Jairo (Napa Wildlife Lodge) was also very good, friendly and outgoing, helpful and knowledgeble. Advice for Potential Travellers Take waterproof camera for snorkelling. Take more cash than you think you might need, especially if you wish to tip the guides, boat crew and other leaders through out the hoilday. Used ATM once to withdraw additional dollars without any problem, took the precuation of using an ATM within a building (e.g. inside The Raddisson Hotel).Pack lightly and with luggage that can be folded for the yacht cruise. Storage space is limited, the Exodus holdalls are superb for this job and you can pack these in a larger bag so you can split luggage and leave some in the hotel in Quito. Suggestions If you love wildlife, this is a fantastic holiday to take.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/20/2013
Anonymous - Traveled, March 2013
GALAPAGOS & AMAZON A fantastic two and half weeks. The organisation of all the guides was superb, excellent food through out the holiday and the wildlife sightseeing in both the Amazonian rainforest and on and around the Galapagos Islands was sensational. Most Inspirational Moment The mini-bus having to stop and then squeeze past a giant tortoise on the track road on our first tour on Santa Cruz.Snorkelling with sea lions swimming close by, and having to "make way" for a large turtle as it ascended to the surface for air, I was floating directly above the turtle looking down while it was feeding.Walking past sea lions basking on beaches, and laying down beside them (not too near!!) to have the customary tourist photograph taken.Diving off the Cachalote yacht into the Pacific Ocean. Thoughts on Group Leader All the leaders were superb. Juan (Galapagos islands) was very good and attentive to detail and very informative about the wild life. Jairo (Napa Wildlife Lodge) was also very good, friendly and outgoing, helpful and knowledgeble. Advice for Potential Travellers Take waterproof camera for snorkelling. Take more cash than you think you might need, especially if you wish to tip the guides, boat crew and other leaders through out the hoilday. Used ATM once to withdraw additional dollars without any problem, took the precuation of using an ATM within a building (e.g. inside The Raddisson Hotel).Pack lightly and with luggage that can be folded for the yacht cruise. Storage space is limited, the Exodus holdalls are superb for this job and you can pack these in a larger bag so you can split luggage and leave some in the hotel in Quito. Suggestions If you love wildlife, this is a fantastic holiday to take.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/10/2013
Anony - Traveled, March 2013
GALAPAGOS & AMAZON We found this trip to be well planned with a full and interesting itinerary. we particularly enjoyed the activities from the cruise section of the holiday. Most Inspirational Moment The various snorkelling activities - each swim was a completely different experience with regard to the variety of marine life seen. The varied wildlife on each Galapagos Island - close encounters cannot be avoided as wildlife at times is almost underfoot. Thoughts on Group Leader Within the tour are two separate parts - each part we were allocated a guide, in particular we found Juan, our Galapagos guide really enthusiastic and knowledgeable. Advice for Potential Travellers Ensure you take/consider- anti bug spray for rainforest- ear plugs to reduce engine noise whilst sleeping on boat- we found hiring a wet suit on board the boat was necessary in order to snorkel for extended periods- take a spare bag so that you can leave luggage in Quito and travel lighter to Amazon and Galapagos- be vigilant with personal security when out and about in Quito Suggestions To enable you to get the most out of your time, be prepared for early starts and pretty full schedules.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/25/2013
Anonymous - Traveled, December 2012
GALAPAGOS & AMAZON A fantastic holiday, well organized.We had a major problem on the last day and the local Agent was brillient. Most Inspirational Moment The trip to the rain forest was majical from the moment we set foot on the moterised canoe - but seeing the Napo Centre from under our rain ponchoes was amaizing . The atmosaphire, accommodation and people at the Centre were all inspirational. Thoughts on Group Leader Group leader in the Rain Forest was so enthustatic it was infectious, nothing was too much for her and she was always on the look out for us, made sure everyone saw what she saw!!The Leader in the Galapados was good but lacked the enthusiam. Advice for Potential Travellers GoIt is not as warm as you might expect in the GalapagosThe trip to the Cloud Forest was worth going on.Take a safety belt for money especially in Quito. Suggestions Great Holiday but pity about the 11 flights we seem to have spent a lot of time at Guayaquil airport!! Don't take Tavellers Cheques - NO ONE acceps them.The market in Quito is great especially if you enjoy bargening.- get most of your presents to take home there.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/10/2013
Anonymous - Traveled, November 2012
GALAPAGOS & AMAZON A very full holiday that combined the museums and architecture of colonial Quito with an extraordinary variety of wildlife and habitat. Most Inspirational Moment watching the giant otters in the Anangu creek, and snorkelling in the 'turtle garden' at Fernandina Island. Thoughts on Group Leader All good. The leader in Napo (the Amazon basin) was outstanding. The leader in Quito was a mine of interesting local chat on political and social subjects. Advice for Potential Travellers The schedule is focussed on the Amazon basin and the Galapagos, but Quito itself is also a treat. It has a charming colonial old town, some wonderfully over-decorated baroque churches, as well as some good museums (the Museo Casa del Alabado is not the most famous, but should not be overlooked). The local guide organised a morning tour of Quito, which was good, but is very brief. Bear in mind that Quito is high (>2,800 m, and >4,000 m at the top of the cable car), so take it easy and allow a day or two extra. Get up early to visit; the best weather seems to last no more than the morning. Rain and thunderstorms punctuated every afternoon. It is also worth considering the optional excursion to the cloud forest, if only for the variety of humming birds, although there is much more to be seen - provided it is not too cloudy. This is normally a day tour, and slightly unsatisfactory as it is a 2.5 h drive each way, and one arrives too late for the best of the weather and the bird-spotting. One couple solved this by arranging to spend the night there in the interval between the Napo valley and the Galapagos. A number of us thought that Exodus is missing a trick by not offering this as an extra.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/23/2012
Anonymous - Traveled, October 2012
GALAPAGOS & AMAZON This is a truly memorable trip. The Amazon and Galapagos so very different but both providing opportunities to see a variety of wildlife and at a proximity you never believed possible. Most Inspirational Moment Snorkelling with sealions and hammerhead sharks! Thoughts on Group Leader It's worth noting for exodus veterans, that there is no group leader. Whilst someone meets you at Quito and you have guides in the Amazon and the Galapagos, these guides are simply responsible for that component of the trip. In that respect it doesn't feel like an Exodus trip. Our guide Lena in the Amazon was outstanding but Sylvia on the Catchalote was rude and unhelpful. Advice for Potential Travellers People said time and time again to take it easy in Quito but really do! My friends and I (all fit and healthy) all struggled with the altitude.It's not included in the trip, but when in Quito take the opportunity to visit the cloud forest. Another opportunity to see a different part of the place and more and different wildlife.When asking Exodus staff before leaving whether there was room for full luggage on the Catchalote, I was assured that there was. There is...but only just. The rooms are tiny (which isn't a problem when there as you spend so little time in your cabin) but if possible enable yourself to take only what you need.Be careful in Quito - a member of our group had her bag slashed on a bus. Suggestions It might be expensive but it's worth it
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/10/2012
- Traveled, May 2012
GALAPAGOS & AMAZON An excellent trip to two different environments (plus Quito), seeing lots of wildlife and visiting wild places, new experiences (snorkelling and being at the highest altitude that I've been to). The itineraries at Napo and in the Galapagos Islands are busy but there's also time to relax and just enjoy the sights and sounds. Most Inspirational Moment Getting comfortable with snorkelling which gave me the opportunity to snorkel with penguins, a white tipped shark, turtles and a multitude of fish. Hearing howler monkeys in the rainforest (we got to see them too on the canoe trips), seeing the colourful birds at the clay lick. Seeing a large pod of dolphins hunting just before sunset, seeing whale sharks right next to our boat and seeing just how unconcerned the Galapagos wildlife is about the presence of humans. Taking the cable car in Quito up to 4100m and not having any major problems with the altitude, which opened up a number of trip destinations for me. Thoughts on Group Leader Estoban (Quito), Patti (Napo), Juan (Galapagos Islands) were all excellent, well organised and enthusiastic. Advice for Potential Travellers Take it easy the first few days in Quito, it can take a while to get used to the altitude, I felt lightheaded on a couple of occasions but nothing that some slow deep breathes couldn't fix.Take plenty of $1 and $5 bills for taxis and small purchases as getting change might be a problem with higher denomination notes.Use plenty of sun block when snorkelling, especially on your legs.Our flights back from Napo and the Galapagos Islands all ran to time so there was plenty of time to go on some of the optional excursions, allow for this in your budget.The cabins on the Cachalote are quite small so try and avoid taking huge bags/cases, you can always leave items in storage at the hotel in Quito. You can also get laundry done at Napo and at the hotel in Quito.Take more camera memory than you think you'll need, you wouldn't want to run out! It's also worth taking a second camera in case anything happens to the first one. Suggestions A lot of early mornings but you can always catch up on sleep when you get home!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/21/2012
Anonymous - Traveled, November 2011
GALAPAGOS & AMAZON A holiday of 2 different locations both equal in enjoyment. Napo lodge in the Amazon was a stunning location on the edge of a lagoon deep inside the rainforest run under true eco friendly community ideas. The array of birds & mammals seen was exceptional with loads of information from the excellent naturalist guide. But not to be beaten, the Cachalote, crew & guide Efrain showed us the amazing prolific & unique wildlife of the Galapagos with a full programme of island landings, snorkelling & forays along the coast in the dinghy. Even knowing beforehand how unperturbed the wildlife & birds are supposed to be did not prepare us for the reality of it. This really is a 'close encounters' trip. Most Inspirational Moment Snorkelling with sea lions coming over to investigate & 'play' with these strangely inflexible wetsuited humans. With penguins cormorants & sea turtles all swimming past completely unconcerned.A feeding frienzy all around the dinghy with Pelicans & Blue footed Boobies dive bombing into the shoals of fish & Noddy's waiting for the small fry to spill out of the Pelicans pouch, all unconcerned with our presence. Thoughts on Group Leader As there is no overall leader for this trip, I would consider the guides in the 2 locations to be the leaders & both were excellent Advice for Potential Travellers Go! Suggestions The trip notes should make it clearer that providing flights are on time there is time to have 2 separate full days of optional activities in the Quito area as well as 2 half days. So time for Cotopaxi, cloud forest, Equator, City tour & cable car. Who wants to sit in a hotel room!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/05/2011
Anonymous - Traveled, July 2011
GALAPAGOS & AMAZON When booking a trip to the Galapagos one immediately thinks of Charles Darwin's adventures and the shift in thinking they caused. How could such a trip to these isles ever compare to such grand impressions of them. Is it even remotely possible to see what Darwin saw or even begin to imagine what he felt as he walked on the islands? The answer is yes, if you book with Exodus! Most Inspirational Moment On our final full day we were travelling between Isabella and Santiago. The trip had already been far more than I had wished for. We had seen the many changing faces of the islands and several of their charismatic inhabitants such as the inquisitive sea-lions, ancient tortoises, slovenly marine iguanas and the downright ridiculous blue footed boobies. The islands had decided however they would throw us yet another surprise. As our boat the Cachalote broke the waves, rocking back and forth in the now familiar rhythm, a cry was heard from our guide Darwin - "dolphins!". As the sight I had seen so many times in nature documentaries of dorsal fins breaking the waves became more and more numerous, the excitement grew. Suddenly one of the pod broke the waves and revealed itself to the boat load of gasping tourists. They then began to ride the bow wave of the boat occasionally leaning sideways and eying the smiling faces almost falling over the sides of the boat trying to capture a glimpse. Fully lost in the moment and mesmerized by the sight of the creatures it took a while for Darwin's comment to actually register, "OK, so we can try and swim with them if your grab your stuff". As the words sunk in I left the side of the boat and ran to grab my snorkel, mask and flippers. Within what seemed like a few seconds about half of our group were aboard the small panga boats and gliding along the surface of the ocean surrounded by our new friends now riding the much less impressive bow wave of the panga. We slowed and the cry of ‘GO’ was heard from Darwin. I let go of the side of the boat and rolled backwards, met with the usual sight of a mass of bubbles which cleared quickly to reveal the far more unusual sight of 4 dolphins staring straight at me. Three of them slowly swam into the blue whilst one, holding what seemed to be some sort of starfish or sea sponge in its mouth came closer as if to show me its prize. After exchanging eye contact for what seemed like an eternity it turned too and swam into the blue. Our group then slowly swam after the dolphins who occasionally turned, swam past us and then away again as if almost expressing surprise in our clear inability to swim with any sort of gracefulness. Eventually the pod, which in total must have consisted of between 20-30 individuals, began to disappear into the distance. We then climbed back aboard the pangas and once the engine was running and we were again surrounded by dolphins. Again we dived in, exchanging glances and momentarily forgetting the endlessness of the blue beneath us. This routine was repeated about 5 times until we were truly exhausted and had taken on a good few pints of sea water. We returned to the Cachalote. As we began once again to sail, the pod resumed riding the bow wave and glancing at us for another 5 minutes or so as if to wave us off. Then one by one they returned to the expanse of ocean to which they are so perfectly suited and I was left with one of the most moving experiences of my life. Thoughts on Group Leader Our guide Darwin thankfully made a great first impression which was fully justified. As soon as we arrived on the Galapagos we were met by a smiling, enthusiastic and welcoming face. Throughout the trip he taught us much about the islands often derived from personal experiences and impossible to gain from the Internet, books or documentaries. It felt a very personalised tour. Darwin quickly realised the aspects of the islands that interested our group the most and talked more about these. This kind of treatment is what separates a great guide from a good guide. It was clear that he was as enthusiastic about the wildlife as we were and he seemed to love seeing our enjoyment of the islands as well. Darwin certainty had his work cut out living up to his name but it is a challenge he most certainly rose to and the trip would not have been half as enjoyable were it not for his knowledge and guidance throughout. Advice for Potential Travellers Personally on the jungle portion of the trip I did not find long trousers necessary. The paths are well cut and maintained and the amount of actual trekking is minimal. I suppose insect numbers and weather conditions vary and it is certainty worth packing them but I found it much more comfortable to trek in shorts. Washing services are available in the jungle and Quito and easy enough to perform yourself on the boat so don't fill up your case with endless clothes. Bird/wildlife guides are a great idea to take. I have never been a twitcher but recording my sightings in the Galapagos gave me great enjoyment and I was thrilled with my final count of 176 species. The only other piece of advice I would offer is don't forget your camera charger and after-sun. Although if you do I am sure you can borrow from the group if they are as obliging as mine was. Suggestions Only that it was the trip of a lifetime. That is for now anyway but as I enjoyed it so much I am already researching other Exodus trips such as the Antarctic!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/10/2011
Anonymous - Traveled, April 2011
GALAPAGOS & AMAZON A wonderful and well organised trip which exceeded all my expectations. The Napo accomodation was in the most amazing setting, and the bungalows were beautiful. The Cachalote scooner for the Galapagos cruise was just perfect. With just 16 people, it is easy to get to know your fellow travellers, and all the crew made your 8 days feel extra special. Most Inspirational Moment There were so many highlights, it's hard to pick out the ones to put here. The peacefull atmosphere of the Napo reserve, and the frog chorus that you fell asleep to every night. The amazing views across the jungle canopy from the observation tower were wonderfull. Seeing the Giant Otters was very special.The Galapagos Islands were stunning, each with their own character. To be able to view the wildlife so closely, was a real experiance. Snorkelling with Green Pacific Sea Turtles, Sea lions, Penguins and Cormorants were all amazing, and seeing the Blue Footed Boobies doing their courtship dance was also very special. Thoughts on Group Leader All the Tour Guides were great. Stefan in Quito, Robby in Nappo and Juan in Galapagos were so knowledgeable and had such enthusiam. They looked after you very well. Advice for Potential Travellers Don't just think about doing this trip, just do it! An amazing experiance awaits. High deet insect repellant required in Napo, and high factor sunscreen for Galapagos as the sun is so strong. Definately worth doing the cable car ride in Quito, the views are amazing from up the mountain. The Equator museum is also nice to do if you have a few hours to spare. Very informative and good fun.On a feminine note, if any lady travellers have long hair like me, take some leave in conditioner to save you hair turning to straw like mine! You can only use the bio-degradeable shampoo they provide, but you will find that all the sun and sea water will soon take it's toll!Also, if you have any nice white, or pale coloured clothes, I would advise against pegging them out on the metal ropes at the back of the boat, and many of us got rust stains on our washing! Suggestions At both sites, you were looked after so well. The meals were also fantastic, and I really don't know how the chef on Cachalote managed to cook such a huge amount of food from such a small kitchen! The 2 vegetarians on the boat were always well looked after too.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/20/2011
Anonymous - Traveled, December 2010
GALAPAGOS & AMAZON I have no regrets in taking this trip and if I could turn back time I would do exactly the same again. You already imagine this is the trip of a lifetime and for me it was. Most Inspirational Moment The Amazon was easily the highlight of the trip. The accomodation at the lodge (Napo Wildlife Centre) was superb and the guides were of the highest quality. Particularly in the Amazon. It is difficult to highlight the best bits of the holiday. Everyday was different and I can't believe so much happened and I experienced so much in 3 weeks. Thoughts on Group Leader I had numerous group leaders throughout my stay in Ecuador and all were very good. The Amazon guides are the best guides I have ever been with.On a more personal note the leader in Quito, Estaban, was fine as you would expect for the main part of the trip. However I extended my stay both at the start and end of the trip and Estaban was extremely helpful with giving local advice about backpacking opportunities and local tourist trips, sites and attractions. My luggage arrived late and when it arrived I was on a 2 day tour miles from the airport. Estaban, the Quito leader was able to collect my luggage from the airport on my behalf. He was clearly very passionate about Ecuador and his clients and when things go wrong (through no fault of exodus) he was able to go the extra step. Advice for Potential Travellers Lots, firstly some possible myths. I spent 12 months researching the country and came across lots of advice indicating that Ecuador is a very dangerous country. I arrived a week after the shoot out between police and the presidents army in October 2010. There were no signs of any violence and after a couple of days settling in I felt very safe. Even walking around the streets alone.When the notes say Quito can get quite cold. They are telling the truth. Sometimes it felt freezing with temperatures as low as 5C although generally it was comfortable in pants and a long sleeve t shirt and fleece.In the Amazon you imagine lots and lots of insects and that may put people off. Yes there are lots of large insects and spiders (you can hear them all the time) but this should not put you off. It's not like you trip over them. The beds have mosquito nets so nothing gets in. There are literally thousands of ants, but they congregate together and you can easily see them and step over them. The lake at the lodge is of a make up that is safe for humans but which mosquito's can't stand. As a result the resort is almost completely free from mosquito's. We chose to do the easy walking routes through the Amazon which lasted around 2 to 3 hours, each at a very gentle pace. The paths were clear and easy to navigate alllowing you to look at the wildlife rather than watching every step. The wildlife is very well camouflaged and whilst if you blink you will miss something the guides were always pointing something out. You need binoculars to get the most out of the Amazon.Learn Spanish, a little bit of Spanish will go a long way as they (the locals) do not speak very good English. I bought a teach your self DVD for £ 10 ish and got on fine. It enhanced my holiday experience.Do some research on Ecuador and if you can afford to stay a little longer it is deffinately worth it. The cloud forest was particularly exceptional. It was not advertised in the Exodus brochure and I feel they should at least offer it as an optional extension. I heard about Bellavista Mindo Cloud forrest through a popular travel guide book. I asked if exodus could book a trip in advance. They emailed me several different trips with itineries and prices. Exodus booked everything from the UK and it went like clockwork. I would recommend the 2 day trip because the bird life is very lively at sun rise (cost was around £ 200.00 all inclusive for my trip).The advice regarding how much to tip varied a lot. I still don't know what the right tip percentage should be. I would just be aware that you may tip more or less than the Exodus brochure recommends.I spent around £ 70 on malaria tablets (Malorone) which was the most expensive and I think the yellow fever was about £ 40. I was never asked to show the yellow fever certificate. That was my only medical expense (plus suncream)Jet lag and altitude sickness varies from person to person. I felt some jet lag but it did not effect my enjoyment of the holiday. Everyone in our group was aware that the altitude was effecting them but for us it was never a problem and walking at normal pace was OK.Local food is pork and chicken usually served with corn or rice and whilst I personally will eat anything that is put on a plate. There was nothing extreme and if you are a (can I say) difficult eater you will not have any problems in Ecuador. On the galapogas trip, some of the group had special dietary requirements and I was worried I would be eating soup the whole time. The chef was superb and everyone was well catered for with a large variety of food for everybody. That said if you want to try different foods, they have fruits that are not just better than in the UK but not available in the UK. A potato and cheese soup is a local speciality which I would recommend you ask for. Others include Mura Juice and a fruit called Grenade fruit (it's yellow about the size of a large orange but breaks open very easily and contains seeds much like our passion fruit. Suggestions I took a night flight and arrived in the morning which is what I would do again if I went back.I had a 2 day trip to Bellavista Cloud Forest to see the humingbirds which was excellent. Panaramic views of mountains covered in forest was also excellent.I went on a day trip to Cotopaxi and a local market which was excellent (the local leader helped me arrange this on the last minute, I deliberately left it late to see how I handled the altitude).On the first day of arrival our group ascended the cable car which they advised was enjoyable but exhausting because of the altitiude on there first day (I was at Cotopaxi that day).I first met the group on the day we flew out to the Amazon.On the free day after returnign from the Amazon we had the city tour which finished at around 11.30AM, had lunch at the hotel then me and 2 others went to the Equator line exhibition. It was very touristy as you would expect but the part around the corner (ask the guide and then ask locally) was much smaller but worth every minute. You go in and a guide will greet you and give you a 40 minute tour with experiments that seam like magic and give you an insight into the local life of years gone by and also the Amazon local life. The taxi driver (booked from hotel) waited in the car park for us and was excellent. In the evening I went to a football match (not organised through exodus, spur of the moment from a friend I met) south american cup quarter final. The atmosphere was amazing and there was no trouble. It may be possible to organise this through the hotel, the ticket was $6 and the football shirt on the stands outside was $5. All paid for on the day.Galapogas trip was amazing, the notes don't tell you about the excellent food on board and doesn't tell you that actually there is a certain pleasure in riding the big ocean waves in a very small boat. It was certainly interesting trying to take showers whilst on the move. The Galapogas part of the trip is pretty much exactly as described in the trip notes and there is not much I can add. Your hands reach for the camera all the time.After Galapogas I went to Otavalo for 2 days and this was very good (more so because I took the local bus and stayed in a run down hostel that didn't speak any English to try and get a true traveller experience) and the town was nice and friendly and small (especially when compared to Quito which is huge). The Market was very good (it wasn't even market day). There was a parade which made the trip extra special. Although Otavalo was a good experience it didn't have any special charm and I wouldn't go overly out of my way to see it. If you likle markets you'll like Otavalo.Overall I was very glad I did what I could in Ecuador, the country has so much to offer that I could have spent an extra week there easily.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/18/2011
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