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Day 1
Journey begins
Fly to Quito, the gateway to your Wild Galapagos and Colombian Coffee adventure. Upon arrival, take time to settle in and absorb the Andean atmosphere, framed by snow-capped peaks. Let the anticipation of vibrant wildlife, lush landscapes, and rich cultural experiences begin to build as your extraordinary journey unfolds.
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Day 2
Quito, Ecuador
On arrival in Quito, a team member welcomes you and assists with your luggage before transferring you to the elegant Casa Gangotena Boutique Hotel. Along the scenic drive, gain a first glimpse of the city and its surrounding Andean landscapes, while your guide shares insights into Quito’s rich history, vibrant culture, and what to expect during your stay in Ecuador.
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Day 3
Quito, Ecuador
Explore the historic heart of Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1978. Stroll through Independence Plaza, admiring the Cathedral, Presidential Palace, Municipal Building, and Archbishop’s Palace. Visit La Campania de Jesus and San Francisco Church and Convent to marvel at their gilded and baroque interiors. Climb the Metropolitan Cathedral for stunning views of the city and its domes. Enjoy lunch at Plaza Grande Cafe, savouring authentic Ecuadorian cuisine. In the afternoon, experience the art and chocolate of Ecuador at the home of celebrated painter Oswaldo Guayasamin, including tasting exquisite creations from the renowned To’ak brand.
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Day 4
Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
Transfer to Quito airport for your flight to the Galapagos, the start of your seaborne adventure aboard the luxury yacht Isabela II. Arrive at Baltra Airport and cross the Itabaca Channel by ferry to Santa Cruz Island. A short drive takes you to the island’s lush highlands, where you explore rich ecosystems and unique biodiversity. Enjoy lunch at a charming local restaurant before visiting a nearby reserve to encounter giant tortoises in their natural habitat, wandering peacefully among grasses and pools. Explore fascinating lava tunnels before a brief transfer to Puerto Ayora to board the yacht, ready to set sail on your Galapagos journey.
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Day 5
Santiago Island & Chinese Hat, Galapagos
Step ashore at Puerto Egas on Santiago Island, where black volcanic sands meet rugged lava formations. Observe recently reintroduced land iguanas and a variety of terrestrial and marine birds, while marine iguanas graze on algae and fur seals rest in shaded rock crevices. In the afternoon, visit Chinese Hat Islet, a younger volcanic formation with a crescent-shaped white sandy beach. Follow a 400-metre trail along its shoreline and enjoy swimming or snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, where white-tipped reef sharks glide gracefully and playful Galapagos penguins add a touch of charm to this extraordinary marine paradise.
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Day 6
Genovesa Island & Darwin Bay, Galapagos
Begin the day with a scenic panga ride along the cliffs of Genovesa, known as Bird Island, before ascending Prince Phillip’s Steps to a plateau alive with wildlife. Witness colonies of Nazca and red-footed boobies, magnificent frigatebirds, and storm petrels, keeping watch for the rare short-eared owl. For those not landing, an extended panga tour along the cliffs is available, with optional snorkelling and kayaking. After lunch, explore the pristine white sands of Darwin Bay, where avian life abounds. Frigatebirds soar overhead while red-footed and Nazca boobies, gulls, herons, finches, and mockingbirds populate the shore, creating a vivid display of Galapagos biodiversity.
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Day 7
Santa Fe Island & South Plaza Island, Galapagos
Take a morning dinghy ride to the white sandy shores of Santa Fe Island, where playful sea lion colonies greet you. Observe majestic Galapagos hawks perched on salt bushes and keep an eye out for the rare Santa Fe land iguana. Conclude your walk with snorkelling along a natural wave barrier or a glass-bottom boat ride. After lunch, make a dry landing on South Plaza Island, where turquoise waters meet white sands and black lava. Explore a vibrant carpet of scarlet succulents among green prickly-pear cacti, watch land iguanas feeding beneath them, and enjoy sea lions and soaring seabirds in this colourful, dynamic landscape.
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Day 8
Guayaquil, Ecuador
Conclude your Galapagos adventure with a transfer from Baltra Island to the airport for your flight back to the mainland. Upon arrival in Guayaquil, relax and unwind as you are escorted to the Wyndham Hotel, where a comfortable room and restful evening await, offering the perfect pause after your extraordinary island journey.
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Day 9
Bogota, Colombia
Transfer to the airport this morning for your flight to Bogota, Colombia’s vibrant capital. Upon arrival, meet your guide at El Dorado International Airport and transfer to the luxurious Sofitel Hotel in the prestigious La Cabrera neighbourhood. After check-in, your guide will provide an overview of your itinerary. Surrounded by museums, monuments, boutiques, and restaurants, the hotel offers a perfect base to explore the city’s rich culture and lively atmosphere.
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Day 10
Bogota, Colombia
Begin the day with panoramic views of Bogota on the drive to Zipaquira, where you descend underground to marvel at the extraordinary Salt Cathedral, carved within an active salt mine formed 250 million years ago. Return to the city to explore the colonial charm of La Candelaria, a favourite for photographers, and visit the Museo del Oro and the Botero Museum, celebrating Colombia’s iconic artist. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to the Sofitel Hotel, where you overnight in comfort, reflecting on the city’s remarkable blend of history, art, and culture.
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Day 11
Pereira, Colombia
Meet your guide at the hotel lobby for a transfer to the airport, where assistance with check-in ensures a smooth journey to Pereira. Arrive in Colombia’s Coffee Triangle, a lush region of Caldas, Quindio, and Risaralda, renowned for its rolling green valleys, exotic wildlife, and gentle climate. Relax and soak in the scenery, savouring the freshest coffee you may ever taste, as the serene landscape invites you to unwind and immerse yourself in the beauty of one of Colombia’s most enchanting regions.
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Day 12
Pereira, Colombia
Venture into Quindio’s stunning Cocora Valley, home to Colombia’s national tree, the wax palm, which can soar up to 190 feet. Begin with a traditional canelazo cocktail before exploring the misty cloud forest, where your guide highlights the importance of conservation. Contribute to the ecosystem by planting wax palms. Continue to the charming town of Salento, founded in 1842, where colourful colonial bahareque architecture lines Calle Real, filled with restaurants, bars, and handicraft shops. Enjoy a typical lunch in the valley, featuring smoked trout, while taking in the valley’s breathtaking scenery and the serene rhythm of the Coffee Triangle.
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Day 13
Depart Pereira
Take a relaxed transfer to the airport for your flight to Bogota, connecting with your onward international journey. Reflect on the rich wildlife, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultures you have experienced across Ecuador and Colombia, carrying memories of the Galapagos, the Andes, and the Coffee Triangle as your extraordinary adventure comes to a close.
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Day 14
Arrive home
