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Deposits & Cancellations
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Free air to Galapagos Islands extended Galapagos M/V Santa Cruz one child free and 2nd child 50%
ECUADOR
One of the most magnificent countries in Latin America....Ecuador has everything, history, culture, archaeological sites, nature, beautiful people and something very unique....Galapagos Islands.....
Come -Join us to discover Ecuador !
Choose one the many programs we offer....
Amazon Rain Forest -Manatee River Boat 7 days exploring the Ecuadorian Amazon....best buy for the Amazon
8 day trip: Cruising the Galapagos Islands for 5 days and visiting Guayaquil, Quito and Otavalo.
8 days visiting Quito, Riobamba, Otavalo & Riobamba with La Chiva Express.
Galapagos with the M/V Explorer US$300 discount per person, select dates ...please call us! 8 days visiting Quito, Otavalo & the Galapagos Islands aboard the M/V Explorer for 3 nights plus extension to the Amazon Rain Forest (Kapawi)
M/V Explorer Galapagos Enchanted Islands -12 days visiting Quito, Otavalo & Cruising the Galapagos Islands for 7 nights.
8 days Cruising Galapagos aboard the M/V Legend and visiting Quito and surroundings areas. Free air to Galapagos
Galapagos & the Amazon Rain Forest New ! 12 days visiting the Amazon Rain forest aboard the Manatee, cruising Galapagos for 4 days and exploring Quito for 3 days.
Galapagos Explorer & Machu Picchu S $300 discount per person, select dates ...please call us! with 5 star hotels, tours & cruise for a total of 14 days visiting Quito, Otavalo, Galapagos, Lima, Cuzco & Machu Picchu.
Galapagos, The Legend & Machu Picchu 14 day program Cruising Galapagos for 8 days and then visit Cuzco and Machu Picchu (The Lost City of the Inkas) for 6 more days.
Short visit to Galapagos and Machu Picchu 10 days/9 nights ...for those people on the run ....Guayaquil, Galapagos, Lima, Cuzco, Machu Picchu
Ecuador & Galapagos Free air to Galapagos Cruise Galapagos for 7 nights aboard the deluxe yachts Eric, Letty, Flamingo & visit Quito for 2 more nights.
Extension to the Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest...La Selva Jungle Lodge, Kapawi, The Manatee River boat.... Extension to Lima, Cuzco & Machu Picchu for Ecuador trips only... Extension to Salinas Beach Barcelo Colon Miramar 4 days/3 nights -Daily departures from Guayaquil -Great all inclusive...
PLEASE BE ADVISED - The USA airport departure taxes, security and fuel surcharges change daily. Some airlines are charging $100 to $200 per person. We will advise you of the exact cost at the time of placing reservations. This amount will be added to your final bill.
GALAPAGOS ABOARD THE M/V LEGEND
**Free air to Galapagos from Sep 16 to Dec.15
Tickets must be issue by Aug.04, 2010
Visiting Quito, Otavalo and cruise around the Galapagos Islands aboard the M/V LEGEND
8 day/7 night Program DAY 01 FRI. MIAMI-QUITO: (Add-ons available from more than 100 USA cities) Depart Miami for Quito, Ecuador. After going through customs and immigration, you will be transferred to the new hotel Dann Carlton or Alameda Real. DAY 02 SAT. QUITO: Afternoon drive along the northern residential section and see the impressive Parliament Building. Then stroll downtown to visit the colonial temple and monasteries designated by UNESCO a World Heritage Site. Visit San Augustine Convent with its colonial cloisters, coffered ceilings and vast collection of paintings. Continue to the Independence Plaza flanked by the Cathedral, Presidential Palace, Municipal Building and Archbishop's Palace. Next, visit the great church and Monastery of San Francisco with the Virgin of Quito at its main altar. Your scenic tour ends at a lookout point with a great view of Quito (B) DAY 03 SUN. OTAVALO COUNTRY TOUR & MARKET:
DAY 04 MON. QUITO-GALAPAGOS-M/V LEGEND Transfer to the airport for flight to Galapagos. Welcome at Baltra Airport . Briefing on
ship's facilities at lounge given by guides as well as National Park. Safety drill practice with passengers, crew and guides.
Morning at Santa Cruz (Dragon Hill or Venice). Wet landing.
Passengers can walk towards a salt-water lagoon behind the beach, where
occasionally pink flamingos can be observed. This trail leads up to Dragon Hill,
which offers a lovely view of the bay. This is a nesting site for reintroduced
land iguanas, and there is also a scalesia tree forest. Passengers may opt to
take a dinghy to Venice islet and observe the vegetation and marine animals like
spotted eagle rays, golden rays, mullets, sharks and sea turtles. Land iguanas
have often been observed as well. Española Island . Travelers enjoy a dry landing at Suarez Point. Upon landing visitors will learn more about the lava terrain while crossing the inactive lava fields.. Aside from the Sea Lion colonies, this is one of the most important sites for bird watching. As soon as visitors step foot on this island many species can be spotted and observed up close. Among the many species, the Hooded Mocking bird and Red Billed Tropic Bird can be seen. Travelers will also spot a large colony of Marine Iguanas, Lava Lizards, and the colorful Sally Light Foot Crabs. After a short trek visitors encounter colonies of masked and blue-footed boobies. Nesting grounds sometimes overlap the trail. Visitors will also find Galapagos Doves, Hawks and Swallow-Tailed Gulls. After crossing the nesting grounds you will reach the world's largest colony of Waved Albatross (15000 approx.), Their mating rituals are a highlight. Nearing the end of this excursion passengers will visit the famous blowhole, where water shoots into the air at almost 23 mts. (75 ft.). Morning at Santa Cruz (Carrión Point). During this visit you can snorkel and see a variety of fish, rays and perhaps the harmless white tipped reef sharks. From Punta Carrion the short navigation is through the beautiful Itabaca Channel with its turquoise waters. Return to the M/V Galapagos Legend, check-out and transfer to the airport for flight to Quito with transfer to hotel Dann Carlton. (B) DAY 08 FRI. QUITO-MIAMI: Transfer to the airport for flight to Miami and homeward bound. (B) (SEE OPTIONAL TO CUZCO AND MACHU PICCHU AT THE END OF THIS PAGE)
INCLUDING: Round trip airfare from Miami to Quito via American Airlines or Lan Airlines. Meeting and transfer service. Tours as noted in itinerary including entrance fees and English speaking naturalist guides. Hotel Dann Carlton or Alameda for 4 nights including room taxes and service charges with Buffet Breakfast. The 4 day/3 night Galapagos Cruise aboard the M/V Legend –outside SUPERIOR cabins-with 2 lower berths. Meals as noted in itinerary B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner. · Airfare from Quito to Baltra Island via Tame Airlines. Tips to airport porters.
NOT INCLUDED: Services not mentioned in itinerary; Passport fees; Galapagos National Park Tax upon entry $100; $10 immigration card to enter Galapagos; Airport departure taxes of $2.00 to $5.00 for local flights in Ecuador; Insurance; Tips to hotel porters and tour guides; USA departure tax/security/fuel surcharges/airport tax of $150-300 (this is to be paid here in USA at the moment of issuing your airline tickets); Ecuador airport departure tax of $32 to $48 depending on airport; new fuel surcharge for all Galapagos cruises ...about $30 per day (we will advise you at the time of making reservations).
US$350.00 per person at the time of booking. Final payment is due 65 days before departure. INSURANCE: Through Insure America, cost for this program starts at US$235-305. Please see information on the Insurance section..(click here) CANCELLATIONS:
**NOTE: If you travel with Lan Airlines from Miami or New York between Sep.16 to Dec.15 -please deduct US$400 per person from above rates as Lan Airlines is offering free air to Galapagos from Guayaquil or Quito. Tickets must be issue by Aug.04, 2010
RATES PER PERSON * From Jan.01 to Mar.31 and from Jun.15 to Aug.15 -please add $100 per person (high season for the air portion). From Dec.09 to 31 -please add $300 per person. Children rate based –sharing room with 2 adults. Note: Upgrade to Junior Suite for $300 per person. For the Legend suites add $520 per person. (For inside cabins, you can deduct US$250 per person. Please take note inside cabins are very limited.
ADD-ONS VIA AMERICAN AIRLINES: For same package add $180 from ORL, TPA, JAX, FMY and Zone 1; $220 from ATL; add $250 from BDL, BOS, BWI, EWR, NYC, PHL, RDU, WAS, + Zone 3 - - Add $300 from CHI, CLE, DTT; - Add $330 from DEN, DFW, HOU, MSY, SJU ZONE 2 & 4; Add $390 from LAX, SFO + ZONE 5; Add $410 from Zone 6. RATES SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME. ADD-ONS VIA LAN AIRLINES: From New York US$200 more per person.
Zone 1: FL; Zone 2: AR, LA, MS, NM, OK, TX; Zone 3: CT, GA, MA, MD, NC, NH, NY, PA, RI, SC, VA, VT; Zone 4: AL, AZ, CO, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MI, MN, MO, NE, OH, SD, TN, WI; Zone 5: CA, ID, NV, UT; Zone 6: OR, WA
GALAPAGOS & THE AMAZON RAIN FOREST
Visiting Quito, Otavalo, cruise around the Galapagos Islands aboard the M/V Legend and exploring the mightyAmazon Rain Forest aboard the M/N Manatee
US$4,093 including air from Miami (Add-ons available from more than 100 USA cities)
12 day/11 night Program DAY 01 FRI. MIAMI-QUITO: Depart Miami for Quito, Ecuador. After going through customs and immigration, you will be transferred to the new hotel Dann Carlton or Mercure Alameda. DAY 02 SAT. QUITO: Afternoon drive along the northern residential section and see the impressive Parliament Building. Then stroll downtown to visit the colonial temple and monasteries designated by UNESCO a World Heritage Site. Visit San Augustine Convent with its colonial cloisters, coffered ceilings and vast collection of paintings. Continue to the Independence Plaza flanked by the Cathedral, Presidential Palace, Municipal Building and Archbishop's Palace. Next, visit the great church and Monastery of San Francisco with the Virgin of Quito at its main altar. Your scenic tour ends at a lookout point with a great view of Quito (B) DAY 03 SUN. OTAVALO COUNTRY TOUR & MARKET:
This
excursion goes north, to the land of the Otavalos and South America’s most
famous Indian fair along the Pan-American Highway through dramatic mountain
scenery to the textile market of Otavalo, where guests will enjoy visiting the
many stalls full of ponchos, scarves, blankets, wall hangings, woven belts,
hats, handbags and much more. Here Otavaleños barter in silence, in marked
contrast to the raucous noise of other markets; take your time to negotiate the
best bargains. Then, proceed to Peguche, an Indian village very near Otavalo
that is home to the artisans who do the weaving in their homes; guests can learn
about their culture and everyday life and then take the cobblestone road to San
Pablo, with a stop along the way at a weaving workshop specialized in fine
backstrap loom woven textiles. Lunch is at one of the charming country inns or
haciendas of the area. DAY 04 MON. QUITO-GALAPAGOS-M/V LEGEND Transfer to the airport for flight to Galapagos. Welcome at Baltra Airport . Briefing on
ship's facilities at lounge given by guides as well as National Park. Safety drill practice with passengers, crew and guides.
More
information about the Legend Morning at Genovesa Island . Best known as “the island of birds.” Passengers enjoy the safe harbor of being anchored deep within the cater formed bay. A dry landing at El Barranco (Prince Philip's Steps). Passengers will walk on lava terrain observing Red Footed Boobies, Frigates, and the fragrant Palo Santo trees. Thousands of Storm Petrels can be seen hovering over the open expanses. Your second visit is a refreshing wet landing, travelers visit Darwin Bay . Visitors will enjoy observing the Red-Footed Boobies, Frigates, Sea Lions, Lava Gulls, Night Herons, and Fiddler Crabs at this site. This site also offers snorkeling in the bay to observe sharks and rays at a safe distance. Passengers never forget the beaches on this island. (B,L,D) Española Island . Travelers enjoy a dry landing at Suarez Point. Upon landing visitors will learn more about the lava terrain while crossing the inactive lava fields.. Aside from the Sea Lion colonies, this is one of the most important sites for bird watching. As soon as visitors step foot on this island many species can be spotted and observed up close. Among the many species, the Hooded Mocking bird and Red Billed Tropic Bird can be seen. Travelers will also spot a large colony of Marine Iguanas, Lava Lizards, and the colorful Sally Light Foot Crabs. After a short trek visitors encounter colonies of masked and blue-footed boobies. Nesting grounds sometimes overlap the trail. Visitors will also find Galapagos Doves, Hawks and Swallow-Tailed Gulls. After crossing the nesting grounds you will reach the world's largest colony of Waved Albatross (15000 approx.), Their mating rituals are a highlight. Nearing the end of this excursion passengers will visit the famous blowhole, where water shoots into the air at almost 23 mts. (75 ft.). Morning arrival at Black Turtle Cove located near Las Bachas beach in the north of Santa Cruz Island . This excursion provides passengers with a “panga” ride though the mangrove, during which the outboard motor of the small boat is turned off. This allows for the close observation of Sea Turtles, White Tipped Reef Sharks, Spotted Eagle Rays, and Yellow Rays. Transfer to the airport for flight to Quito with transfer to hotel Dann Carlton or Mercure Alameda.
DAY 08 FRI.
QUITO-COCA-AMAZON-Manatee Amazon Explorer
More information about the Manatee DAY 12 TUE. QUITO-MIAMI: Transfer to the airport for flight to Miami and homeward bound. (B) (SEE OPTIONAL TO CUZCO AND MACHU PICCHU AT THE END OF THIS PAGE)
INCLUDING: Round trip airfare from Miami to Quito via American or Lan Airlines. Meeting and transfer service. Tours as noted in itinerary including entrance fees and English speaking naturalist guides. Hotel Dann Carlton or Mercure Alameda for 5 nights including room taxes and service charges with Buffet Breakfast. The 4 day/3 night Galapagos Cruise aboard the M/V Legend –outside SUPERIOR cabins-with 2 lower berths. 3 nights aboard the Manatee with 2 lower berths (air conditioned cabins) and all meals while on the cruise. Meals as noted in itinerary B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner. · Airfare from Quito to Baltra Island via Tame Airlines and from Quito to Coca. Tips to airport porters. US$ 25 Parrot Clay Leek fee and Yasuni National Park entrance of US$20
NOT INCLUDED: Services not mentioned in itinerary; Passport fees; Galapagos National Park Tax upon entry $100; $10 immigration card to enter Galapagos; Airport departure taxes of $2.00 to $5.00 for local flights in Ecuador; Insurance; Tips to hotel porters and tour guides; USA departure tax/security/fuel surcharges/airport tax of $340 (this is to be paid here in USA at the moment of issuing your airline tickets); Ecuador airport departure tax of $32 to 48 depending on airport; new fuel surcharge for all Galapagos cruises ...about $30 per day (we will advise you at the time of making reservations).
US$350.00 per person at the time of booking. Final payment is due 65 days before departure. INSURANCE: Through Insure America, cost for this program starts at US$305-340. Please see information on the Insurance section..(click here) CANCELLATIONS:
RATES PER PERSON * From Jan.01 to Mar.31 and from Jun.15 to Aug.15 -please add $100 per person (high season for the air portion). From Dec.09 to 31 -please add $300 per person. Children rate based –sharing room with 2 adults. Note: Upgrade to Junior Suite for $300 per person. For the Legend Suites add $520 per person. Upgrade to five star hotel HILTON COLON please add $323 per person/double for the five nights in Quito (SGL US$592)
ADD-ONS & VIA AMERICAN AIRLINES: For same package add $180 from ORL, TPA, JAX, FMY and Zone 1; $220 from ATL; add $250 from BDL, BOS, BWI, EWR, NYC, PHL, RDU, WAS, + Zone 3 - - Add $300 from CHI, CLE, DTT; - Add $330 from DEN, DFW, HOU, MSY, SJU ZONE 2 & 4; Add $390 from LAX, SFO + ZONE 5; Add $410 from Zone 6. RATES SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME.
Zone 1: FL; Zone 2: AR, LA, MS, NM, OK, TX; Zone 3: CT, GA, MA, MD, NC, NH, NY, PA, RI, SC, VA, VT; Zone 4: AL, AZ, CO, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MI, MN, MO, NE, OH, SD, TN, WI; Zone 5: CA, ID, NV, UT; Zone 6: OR, WA
**NOTE: If you travel with Lan Airlines from Miami or New York between Sep.16 to Dec.15 -please deduct US$400 per person from above rates as Lan Airlines is offering free air to Galapagos from Guayaquil or Quito. Tickets must be issue by July 21, 2010
GALAPAGOS, THE M/V LEGEND
& MACHU PICCHU
Cruising Galapagos for 8 days and then visit Machu Picchu
14 days/13 nights
DAY 01 SUN. MIAMI-GUAYAQUIL Arrive Guayaquil with transfer to hotel HAMPTON INN. Transfer to the airport for flight to Galapagos. Welcome at Baltra Airport . Briefing on ship´s facilities at lounge given by guides as well as National Park. Safety drill practice with passengers, crew and guides. Afternoon visit North Seymour Island . After a dry landing guests will encounter Swallow Tailed Gulls and Sea Lions. This site is also known for being a major nesting colony for Blue Footed Boobies, and the largest colony of the Magnificent Frigate Bird. (a different species from the Great Frigate Bird). Travelers will also spot both endemic species of iguanas, the Marine Iguanas and Land Iguanas. Passengers will enjoy this relaxed hike around the nesting sites. (B,L,D) Morning at Genovesa Island . Best known as "the island of birds." Passengers enjoy the safe harbor of being anchored deep
within the cater formed bay. A dry landing at El Barranco (Prince Philip's Steps). Passengers will walk on lava terrain observing Red Footed Boobies, Frigates, and the fragrant Palo Santo trees. Thousands of Storm Petrels can be seen hovering over the open expanses. Your second visit is a refreshing wet landing, travelers visit Darwin Bay . Visitors will enjoy observing the Red-Footed Boobies, Frigates, Sea Lions, Lava Gulls, Night Herons, and Fiddler Crabs at this site. This site also offers snorkeling in the bay to observe sharks and rays at a safe distance. Passengers never forget the beaches on this island. (B,L,D) AM Española Island . Travelers enjoy a dry landing at Suarez Point. Upon landing visitors will learn more about the lava terrain while crossing the inactive lava fields.. Aside from the Sea Lion colonies, this is one of the most important sites for bird watching. As soon as visitors step foot on this island many species can be spotted and observed up close. Among the many species, the Hooded Mocking bird and Red Billed Tropic Bird can be seen. Travelers will also spot a large colony of Marine Iguanas, Lava Lizards, and the colorful Sally Light Foot Crabs. After a short trek visitors encounter colonies of masked and blue-footed boobies. Nesting grounds sometimes overlap the trail. Visitors will also find Galapagos Doves, Hawks and Swallow-Tailed Gulls. After crossing the nesting grounds you will reach the world's largest colony of Waved Albatross (15000 approx.), Their mating rituals are a highlight. Nearing the end of this excursion passengers will visit the famous blowhole, where water shoots into the air at almost 23 mts. (75 ft.). Afternoon at San Cristóbal Island . Dry landing at Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. Here passengers visit the Interpretation Center providing travelers an opportunity to learn about the natural and human history of the islands through an hour-long interactive presentation. There is some time to shop in town. (B,L,D) AM Santa Cruz Island . Arrive at Black Turtle Cove located near Las Bachas beach in the north of Santa Cruz Island . This excursion provides passengers with a "panga" ride though the mangrove, during which the outboard motor of the small boat is turned off. This allows for the close observation of Sea Turtles, White Tipped Reef Sharks, Spotted Eagle Rays, and Yellow Rays.
Afternoon at Bartolomé Island . Dry landing. Arriving on this island, passengers will see volcanic formations including lava bombs, spatter, and cinder cones. After a hike to the summit visitors have an impressive view of the surrounding islands, including the eroded tuff cone of Pinnacle Rock. During the ascent travelers will often see a large colony of Marine Iguanas and Lava Lizards. Red Mangroves, Tiquilla, and various cacti all add to the experience. Visitors also enjoy a chance to cool off while snorkeling. Here travelers often see the Galapagos Penguin, Sea Turtles, and White Tipped Sharks from a safe distance. (B,L,D) Fernandina Island . After a dry landing at Espinosa Point, passengers will see the largest colony of Marine Iguanas mingling with Sally-light Foot Crabs. Also enjoyed are the Flightless Cormorants nesting sites, the Galapagos Penguins, Galapagos Hawks, and Sea lions. Among the flora and volcanic formations observers will note Brachycereus Cactus, "pa-hoe-hoe" lava, and other unusual lava formations. Travelers will view recent lava flows from a safe distance. Also numerous mangrove beds extend into the sea, depicting a healthy and thriving eco-system.
Afternoon at Isabela Island . Is the largest island in the Galapagos. At Tagus Cove, passengers enjoy a dry landing. Visitors learn more about the eruption of five volcanoes that flowed together to form this land mass. During the walk passengers will see the largest population of Giant Tortoises.(about 4000, but difficult to spot) the marked trail leads to Darwin 's salt water lagoon and an excellent view of the lava fields, scoured with unique volcanic formations,. Time is allowed for viewing marine life from the dinghy. Frequently visitors see Galapagos Penguins at this site. A view of graffiti dating back to the 1800's can help passengers better appreciate the relationship between the islands and tourism today. Most of the graffiti is believed to be done by pirates and buccaneers. (B,L,D) Santiago Island . Visit the dark sand beach at Puerto Egas during a wet landing. Most of the landscape is tuff-stone layers and lava flows, the surrounding area is prime for spotting and observing Hunting Herons, Great Blue Herons, Lava Herons, Oyster Catchers, and the Yellow Crowned Night Heron. Passengers enjoy the sight of Marine Iguanas grazing upon algae beds at low tide sharing space with Red Sally Light-Foot Crabs. There is a colony of Fur-Seal swimming in deep pools of cool water called "grottos". This is an excellent spot for swimming and snorkeling in search of Octopuses, Sea Horses, Star Fish and other sea life caught in the small tidal pools. >From a safe distance travelers can admire Moray Eels, Hammerhead Sharks, White Tip and Galapagos Sharks, Golden and White Spotted Eagle Rays, Jacks, Wahoo, Tuna, Groupers, Red-Tailed and Dog Snappers, Sea Lions, and Sea Turtles. All located in the back drop of cold water and warm water corals, fans, and sponge.
Afternoon at Rábida Island . Dry landing at the dark red colored beach of volcanic origin, frequented by sea lions. It is often considered the geographic center of Galapagos because it has the most diversified volcanic rocks in all of the Islands . Here a short trail leads to a salt water lagoon, where we find small colonies of Flamingos feeding. The brown pelican nests in the mangroves found at the far side of the lagoon. Also to be found are boobies and 9 species of Darwin 's finches.
Dingy ride by the reefs and an excellent opportunity for snorkeling. (B,L,D)
Morning at Santa Cruz Island . On another visit, travelers have the chance to investigate the Charles Darwin Research Station in Puerto Ayora.
Staffed with international scientists conducting biological research and conservation projects. Here you can also admire Giant Tortoises, part of the breeding program. Also travelers can admire the impressive Giant Prickly-Pear Cactus forest and many land birds. The visit to the station takes around 40 minutes. After this visit passengers have some free time to walk around town and shop for souvenirs. The trail then leads up to Dragon Hill, which offers a beautiful view of the bay. This area is a nesting site for a big number of reintroduced Land Iguanas, again thanks to the Charles Darwin Research Station. There is also a bizarre Scalesia tree forest. (B,L,D)
Transfer to the airport for flight to Guayaquil with transfer to hotel HAMPTON INN. Transfer to the airport for flight to Cuzco. Reception and transfer to the HOTEL DON CARLOS. Afternoon city tour of Cuzco and the surrounding valley and ruins of Kenko, Tambomachay, Puca-Pucara and the Fortress of Sacsayhuaman. (B) Full day excursion by train to the most mysterious and energetic place of the Inka civilization. Early morning your tour guide will pick you up and transfer you to the train station for your 3 1/2 hour trip with spectacular views of the Urubamba River and the Andean mountain range to Machu Picchu. Temples, palaces, towers and staircases are built into the side of the mountain. Here your tour guide will take you from site to site explaining the advanced world of the Inkas. (B) Transfer to the airport for flight to Lima with transfer to HOTEL FARAONA. (B) DAY 14 SAT. LIMA-MIAMI Transfer to the airport. (B)
RATES PER PERSON * From Jan.01 to Mar.31 and from Jun.15 to Aug.15 -please add $100 per person. From Dec.09 to 31 -please add $300 per person. Children rate based –sharing room with 2 adults.
INCLUDING:
NOTE: For outside cabins -please add $250 per person.
NOT INCLUDED: Services not mentioned in itinerary; Passport fees; Galapagos National Park Tax upon entry $100; $10 immigration card to enter Galapagos; Airport departure taxes of $2.00 to $5.00 for local flights in Ecuador; Insurance; Tips to hotel porters and tour guides; USA departure tax/security/fuel surcharges/airport tax of $340 (this is to be paid here in USA at the moment of issuing your airline tickets); Ecuador airport departure tax of $32 to 48 depending on airport; new fuel surcharge for all Galapagos cruises ...about $30 per day (we will advise you at the time of making reservations).
ADD-ONS & VIA AMERICAN AIRLINES: For same package add $180 from ORL, TPA, JAX, FMY and Zone 1; $220 from ATL; add $250 from BDL, BOS, BWI, EWR, NYC, PHL, RDU, WAS, + Zone 3 - - Add $300 from CHI, CLE, DTT; - Add $330 from DEN, DFW, HOU, MSY, SJU ZONE 2 & 4; Add $390 from LAX, SFO + ZONE 5; Add $410 from Zone 6. RATES SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME
American Airlines Zone Chart: Zone 1: FL; Zone 2: AR, LA, MS, NM, OK, TX; Zone 3: CT, GA, MA, MD, NC, NH, NY, PA, RI, SC, VA, VT; Zone 4: AL, AZ, CO, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MI, MN, MO, NE, OH, SD, TN, WI; Zone 5: CA, ID, NV, UT; Zone 6: OR, WA
DEPOSITS: US$500.00 per person at the time of booking. Final payment is due 65 days before departure. INSURANCE: Through Insure America, cost for this program starts at US$305. Please see information on the Insurance section..(click here) CANCELLATIONS:
AMAZON RAIN FOREST -MANATEE RIVER CRUISE
US$1870 per person including airfare, Amazon cruise and more... Departs every Sunday
Including:
RATE VALID FOR 2010: COST PER PERSON DOUBLE US$ 1870 (SINGLE US$2950)
Not included: Insurance and any other service not specifically mentioned in the included section. Airport departure taxes Guayaquil $32-38 and Quito US$48.
NOTE: If you want to use your own airfare...please deduct US$500 to the cost of Tour Package. From Dec.09 to 31 -please add $300 per person...(high season airfare).
ADD-ONS FROM OTHER USA CITIES: For
same package add $180 from ORL, TPA, JAX, FMY and Zone 1; $220 from ATL; add
$250 from BDL, BOS, BWI, EWR, NYC, PHL, RDU, WAS, + Zone 3 - - Add $300 from
CHI, CLE, DTT; - Add $330 from DEN, DFW, HOU, MSY, SJU ZONE 2 & 4; Add $390 from
LAX, SFO + ZONE 5; Add $410 from Zone 6. RATES SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME ITINERARY
DAY 01 SUNDAY USA-QUITO Depart Miami for Quito, Ecuador. After going through customs and immigration, you will be transfer to hotel Dann Carlton.
DAY 02 MONDAY Quito-Coca-Manatee Amazon Explorer Arrive in Quito and transfer to hotel Dann Carlton for the night. (B)
DAY 07 SATURDAY QUITO-MIAMI: Transfer to the airport for flight to Miami and homeward bound. (B) Extra days in Quito available upon request.
Galapagos with the M/V Explorer
Visiting Quito "Queen City of the Andes", Otavalo market and cruise around the Galapagos Islands aboard the Deluxe M/V Galapagos Explorer From US$ 3,580 including airfare from Miami See discounts for Kids 7-15 years old. (Add-ons available from more than 100 USA cities -see below)
8 day/7 night Program DAY 01 SUN. USA-QUITO Depart Miami for Quito, Ecuador. After going through customs and immigration, you will be transfer to hotel Dann Carlton. DAY 02 MON. QUITO Afternoon combined tour of colonial and modern Quito. Drive through this beautiful city and its colonial center visiting the Cathedral, Government Palace, the La Compania Church with its ornate golden altars, then a drive through modern Quito. Overnight hotel Dann Carlton. (B) DAY 03 TUE. OTAVALO COUNTRY TOUR
This excursion goes north, to the land of the
Otavalos and South America’s most famous Indian fair along the Panamerican
Highway through dramatic mountain scenery to the textile market of Otavalo,
where guests will enjoy visiting the many stalls full of ponchos, scarves,
blankets, wall hangings, woven belts (fajas), hats, handbags and much more. Here
Otavaleños barter in silence, in marked contrast to the raucous noise of other
markets; take your time to negotiate the best bargains. Then, proceed to Peguche,
an Indian village very near Otavalo that is home to the artisans who do the
weaving in their homes; guests can learn about their culture and everyday life
and then take the cobblestone road to San Pablo, with a stop along the way at a
weaving workshop specialized in fine backstrap loom woven textiles. Lunch is at
one of the charming country inns or haciendas of the area. Overnight hotel Dann
Carlton.
(B,L) Transfer to the airport for your flight to San Cristobal Island in Galapagos Islands to board the M/V "Galapagos Explorer II. Your
first day in Galapagos you'll visit one location near San Cristobal Island. At Cerro
Brujo (wet landing), you will go to the beach for swimming and snorkeling
activities. You can see: blue footed boobies, brown pelicans, coast bird (whimbrels,
sander lings, etc), Darwin’s finches, yellow warblers. Free time to walk on
the beach. Morning at Punta Suarez (Hood Island) which is on the west end of Española, has a landing beach where visitors are generally greeted by a colony of sea lions. On the nearby lava rocks one of the most colorful subspecies of marine iguana can be found, along with brilliant red Sally light-foot crabs. Among the birds in the immediate area are long-billed mockingbirds, Galapagos doves, short-eared owls, an occasional lava heron, oystercatchers and swallow-tailed gulls. Behind Punta Suarez, on a cliff plateau, blue-footed and masked boobies nest. Beyond the booby colonies and farther inland, are many waived albatross colonies. Afternoon
at Gardner Bay in Española Island Morning at Puerto Ayora in Santa Cruz Island. P. Ayora is famous because the Charles Darwin Research Station. A wildlife reserve has been set aside under the guidance of the Ecuadorian Land Commission and the Charles Darwin Station. Tortoises from different islands can also be seen in captivity at the Charles Darwin Station at Puerto Ayora. Afternoon
at Rábida DAY 07 SAT. GALAPAGOS-BALTRA-GUAYAQUIL Morning at Bachas Beach in Santa Cruz Island It is White sand beach where you can see some nesting site for sea turtles, a small lagoon, whimbrels, heron, pelican, Sally Lightfoot crab and other species. Early then transfer to the airport for flight to Guayaquil. Overnight at hotel Oro Verde or Hampton Inn. (B) DAY 08 SUN. GUAYAQUIL-USA Transfer to the airport for flight to Miami and homeward bound. See extensions to the Ecuadorian Amazon Rain Forest... Click here (B)
INCLUDING: Meeting and transfer service. Tours as noted in itinerary including entrance fees and English speaking guides. Hotel selected for 4 nights including room taxes and service charges. The 4 day/3 night Galapagos Cruise aboard the deluxe ship M/V Explorer. Meals as noted in itinerary B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner. Airfare from Miami to Quito and from Quito to San Cristobal Island via Tame or similar. Tips to airport porters.
NOT INCLUDED: Services not mentioned in itinerary; Passport fees; Galapagos National Park Tax upon entry $100; $10 immigration card to enter Galapagos; Airport departure taxes of $2.00 to $5.00 for local flights in Ecuador; Insurance; Tips to hotel porters and tour guides; USA departure tax/security/fuel surcharges/airport tax of $340 (this is to be paid here in USA at the moment of issuing your airline tickets); Ecuador airport departure tax of $32 to 48 depending on airport; new fuel surcharge for all Galapagos cruises ...about $26-30 per day (we will advise you at the time of making reservations).
DEPOSITS: US$300.00 per person at the time of booking. Final payment is due 60 days before departure. INSURANCE: Through Insure America, cost for this program starts at US$US$235-305. Please see information on back page. CANCELLATIONS:
RATES PER PERSON (some departures for July, Aug, Sep & Oct have US$300 discount per person. Please call your travel agent or 1-800-327-0080 for availability) * From Jan.01 to Mar.31 and from Jun.15 to Aug.15 -please add $100 per person. * From Dec.09 to 31 -please add $300 per person.Jun. to Sep. 2010: Kids 7 to 15 years old going with 2 parents discount of US$700 per kid. Maximun 2.
Extension to the Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest...La Selva Jungle Lodge, Kapawi, The Manatee River boat....
NOTE: Rates are based on Magellan or Columbus deck-Classic Suite (all cabins are suites at the M/V Explorer). For Premiun Suite-Marco Polo deck add $145 pp; for Deluxe Suite Erickson Deck add $300 pp; for Renaissance Suite add $500 pp. UPGRADE TO HOTEL MARRIOTT or HILTON : Please add $376 for Double or Triple and $484 for Single.
ADD-ONS & VIA AMERICAN AIRLINES: For same package add $180 from ORL,TPA, JAX, FMY and Zone 1; $220 from ATL; add $250 from BDL, BOS, BWI, EWR, NYC, PHL, RDU, WAS, + Zone 3 - - Add $300 from CHI, CLE, DTT; - Add $330 from DEN, DFW, HOU, MSY, SJU ZONE 2 & 4; Add $390 from LAX, SFO + ZONE 5; Add $410 from Zone 6. RATES SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME
American Airlines Zone Chart: Zone 1: FL; Zone 2: AR, LA, MS, NM, OK, TX; Zone 3: CT, GA, MA, MD, NC, NH, NY, PA, RI, SC, VA, VT; Zone 4: AL, AZ, CO, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MI, MN, MO, NE, OH, SD, TN, WI; Zone 5: CA, ID, NV, UT; Zone 6: OR, WA
Visiting Quito "Queen City of the Andes", Otavalo -the Indigenous colorful market and Galapagos Islands for 8 days aboard the M/V EXPLORER
12 day/11 night Program DAY 01 SUN MIAMI-QUITO:
DAY 03 TUE. OTAVALO NATIVE MARKET:
DAY 04 WED-QUITO-SAN CRISTOBAL Transfer to the airport for your flight to San Cristobal Island in Galapagos Islands to board the M/V "Galapagos Explorer II. Your
first day in Galapagos you'll visit one location near San Cristobal Island. At Cerro
Brujo (wet landing), you`ll go to the beach for swimming and snorkeling
activities. You can see: blue footed boobies, brown pelicans, coast bird (whimbrels,
sander lings, etc), Darwin’s finches, yellow warblers. Free time to walk on
the beach. Morning at Punta Suarez (Hood Island) which is on the west end of Española, has a landing beach where visitors are generally greeted by a colony of sea lions. On the nearby lava rocks one of the most colorful subspecies of marine iguana can be found, along with brilliant red Sally light-foot crabs. Among the birds in the immediate area are long-billed mockingbirds, Galapagos doves, short-eared owls, an occasional lava heron, oystercatchers and swallow-tailed gulls. Behind Punta Suarez, on a cliff plateau, blue-footed and masked boobies nest. Beyond the booby colonies and farther inland, are many waived albatross colonies. Afternoon
at Gardner Bay in Española Island Morning at Puerto Ayora in Santa Cruz Island. Puerto Ayora is famous because the Charles Darwin Research Station. A wildlife reserve has been set aside under the guidance of the Ecuadorian Land Commission and the Charles Darwin Station. Tortoises from different islands can also be seen in captivity at the Charles Darwin Station. Afternoon
at Rábida
DAY 07 SAT. SANTA CRUZ ISLAND Transfer to the airport for flight to Miami and homeward bound. (B)
(SEE OPTIONAL TO CUZCO AND MACHU PICCHU AT THE END OF THIS PAGE) NOT INCLUDED: Services not mentioned in itinerary; Passport fees; Galapagos National Park Tax upon entry $100; $10 immigration card to enter Galapagos; Airport departure taxes of $2.00 to $5.00 for local flights in Ecuador; Insurance; Tips to hotel porters and tour guides; USA departure tax/security/fuel surcharges/airport tax of $340 (this is to be paid here in USA at the moment of issuing your airline tickets); Ecuador airport departure tax of $32 to 48 depending on airport; new fuel surcharge for all Galapagos cruises ...about $30 per day (we will advise you at the time of making reservations).
DEPOSITS:
Final payment is due 60 days before departure. INSURANCE: CANCELLATIONS:
Per person. Rates includes airfare from Miami via American Airlines. * From Jan.01 to Mar.31 and from Jun.15 to Aug.15 -please add $100 per person. From Dec.09 to 31 -please add $300 per person.
ADD-ONS & VIA AMERICAN AIRLINES: For same package add $180 from ORL,TPA, JAX, FMY and Zone 1; $220 from ATL; add $250 from BDL, BOS, BWI, EWR, NYC, PHL, RDU, WAS, + Zone 3 - - Add $300 from CHI, CLE, DTT; - Add $330 from DEN, DFW, HOU, MSY, SJU ZONE 2 & 4; Add $390 from LAX, SFO + ZONE 5; Add $410 from Zone 6. RATES SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME
American Airlines Zone Chart: Zone 1: FL; Zone 2: AR, LA, MS, NM, OK, TX; Zone 3: CT, GA, MA, MD, NC, NH, NY, PA, RI, SC, VA, VT; Zone 4: AL, AZ, CO, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MI, MN, MO, NE, OH, SD, TN, WI; Zone 5: CA, ID, NV, UT; Zone 6: OR, WA
(Applies to Galapagos programs only)
DAY 01 GUAYAQUIL/LIMA: Morning arrival in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, San Cristobal Island. Transfer to the airport for flight to Guayaquil to connect with flight to Lima. Reception and transfer to Hotel selected DAY 02 LIMA-CUZCO: Transfer to the airport for flight to Cuzco. Reception and transfer to HOTEL selected. Afternoon city tour of Cuzco and the surrounding valley and ruins of Kenko, Tambomachay, Puca-Pucara and the Fortress of Sacsayhuaman. (B) DAY 03 CUZCO-MACHU PICCHU: Full day excursion by train to the most mysterious and energetic place of the Inka civilization. Early morning your tour guide will pick you up and transfer you to the train station for your 3 1/2 hour trip with spectacular views of the Urubamba River and the Andean mountain range to Machu Picchu. Temples, palaces, towers and staircases are built into the side of the mountain. Here your tour guide will take you from site to site explaining the advanced world of the Inkas. (Optional overnight in Machu Picchu upon request) . HOTEL selected (B) DAY 04 CUZCO: Day at leisure to explore Cuzco on your own. HOTEL selected. (B) DAY 05 CUZCO-LIMA: Transfer to the airport for flight to Lima with transfer to the Hotel selected. Afternoon sightseeing tour of Lima, founded by Francisco Pizarro in 1535 and called "City of Kings". Your guided tour will take you to see the most important sites of modern and colonial Lima. (B) DAY 06 LIMA-USA: Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the USA and homeward bound. Along with the souvenirs, you will carry memories of your journey through the Galapagos, Machu Picchu and the Amazon. (B) 2010 RATES including airfare from Guayaquil to Lima
3 stars hotels: Lima: Faraona -Cuzco: Don Carlos 4 stars hotels: Lima: Sofitel - Cuzco: Novotel or Dorado International 5 stars hotels: Lima: Marriott - Cuzco: Monasterio Overnight in Machu Picchu available upon request. Add $556 per person for day excursion to M.Picchu aboard the Orient Express service inc. 3 meals and drinks.
INCLUDING: Tips to porters at airports and ports (not at hotels); tours as mentioned in itinerary including entrance fees and English speaking tour guides; Hotel accommodations for 5 nights including room taxes and service charges of 25% in Peru; round trip bus/train tickets to Machu Picchu (vistadome) ; meals as noted B=American Breakfast; all transfers to airport, hotel and ports; airfare Quito or Guayaquil to Lima and Lima-Cuzco-Lima. NOT INCLUDED: Other services not mentioned in itinerary; passport, visa, tourist car fees or insurance; departure taxes: USA departure taxes, Ecuador $32-48 (depending on the airport), Peru $30.25; $6.00 each domestic flight in Peru; tips to tour guides and drivers. DEPOSITS/PAYMENTS:US$200.00 per person at the time of booking. Full payment is due 45 days prior to departure (for the extension) CANCELLATIONS: Please refer to General Conditions and Information. click here INSURANCE: Not included. Available through Insure America, cost for this program starts at US$90-125. For further information, please have your Travel Agent call Tara Tours Inc.
GALAPAGOS WITH THE M/V SANTA CRUZ
Visiting Guayaquil, Quito, Otavalo and cruise around the Galapagos Islands for 5 days... **Cruise portion is free for 1 kid with 2 parents (July to September 2010) Second child pays only 50% cost of cruise. You must have 2 children
8 day/7 night Program DAY 01 SUN. MIAMI-GUAYAQUIL: Depart Miami for Guayaquil, Ecuador. After going through customs and immigration, you will be transferred to the hotel Hampton Inn. DAY 02 MON. GUAYAQUIL-GALAPAGOS-CRUISE Baltra Island Transfer to the airport for flight to Galapagos Islands. Arrival by plane to Baltra Island and immediate transfer by bus (5 minutes) to the dock to board the MV SANTA CRUZ. Cabin assignment and introductory welcome talk. Later, lunch, and ship’s boat drill. Dragon Hill (Santa Cruz Island) The north shore of Santa Cruz hosts Cerro Dragón (Dragon Hill). A dinghy ride among mangrove-lined islets allows the observation of the dramatic landscape and coastline, an area of amazing past volcanic activity. While exploring the nearby waters, various types of birds can be seen, such as boobies, frigates, pelicans. Quite commonly, the black lava will reveal the presence of marine iguanas. The navigation in shallow turquoise colored water gives the chance to see marine turtles, rays and sharks. Dry landing and a walk that includes a brackish water lagoon frequented by greater flamingos, common stilts, pintail ducks and a variety of shore / lagoon birds. Further along the trail, we head to Dragon Hill, which offers a beautiful view of the bay and the western area of the archipelago. This area is a nesting site of a big number of land iguanas re-introduced by the Charles Darwin Research Station. The arid-zone vegetation can be a rewarding location for birdwatching, where Darwin’s finches, Galápagos mockingbirds, the endemic flycatcher, and yellow warblers are regular sightings.(B,L,D) DAY 03 TUE. GALAPAGOS Bartholome Island Disembark at Bartholomé Island (dry landing) for a hike to the summit. Great way to start the day. This is a steep climb aided by a wooden staircase; the view from the top is worth the effort. Panga ride around colossal Pinnacle Rock, time to enjoy the beach (wet landing) and snorkeling. Chance to snorkel next to Galápagos Penguins. There is also the possibility to ride on the glass bottom boat for great views of the underwater world. Lunch on board. Puerto Egas (James Island) Afternoon outing at Puerto Egas (wet landing). This is a great location to see particularly shore birds, while land birds can be observed a little more inland. The pitch black shores are great places for watching sea birds and their foraging duties. The trail brings us to a colony of the endemic fur-sea lions. At low tide, marine iguanas graze upon emerald green algae beds. Outstanding snorkeling and swimming from the beach before the walk. ECO Moment and briefing before dinner. Weather permitting, stargazing on deck. (B,L,D) DAY 04 WED. GALAPAGOS Darwin Bay (Tower Island) Before breakfast, early morning entrance into Darwin Bay. Wet landing at a small white-coralline beach for an easy stroll observing hundreds of birds, mainly Great frigate birds, red footed and Nazca (masked) boobies, lava gulls, herons, finches and mockingbirds. The trail also includes an area of sharp lava and uneven terrain, but you may return to the beach for swimming and snorkeling at this beautiful natural harbor. Those more adventurous can snorkel along the cliffs and look for Hammerhead Sharks. Lunch on board. During navigation, spend some time on deck looking for dolphins or possibly whales. North Seymour Island This is one of the few uplifted islands in Galápagos. In previous times, this was the ocean’s bed. Today’s afternoon walk includes a dry landing for a view of the coast and the interior of the island, while exploring colonies of blue footed boobies, Magnificent frigate birds, and swallow-tail gulls. The sandy shore teems with Galápagos sea lions and marine iguanas. A shorter walk may be also offered. ECO Moment, briefing, and dinner. (B,L,D) DAY 05 THU. GALAPAGOS Santa Fe (Barrington) Island Early morning disembarkation to visit Santa Fe (Barrington) Island. This island, according to the latest geological studies, shows the islands’ oldest rocks. The small bay on Santa Fe's northern coast provides one of the most picturesque anchorages within the archipelago. Follow the trail among a very tall forest of opuntia cacti, where large land iguanas, that are endemic to Barrington, can be seen. A variety of finches and the Galápagos mockingbird abound. Back to the ship and sail to Santa Cruz Island. Puerto Ayora (Santa Cruz Island) Mid morning disembarkation (dry landing) to visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and the rearing in captivity program for the giant tortoises. Impressive giant prickly-pear cactus forest and many land birds can be also seen. Then, a stroll along the main street of Puerto Ayora will allow you to see how Galapagueños live in this magical paradise. We believe that our presence should benefit local communities too. Lunch at beautiful Finch Bay Hotel. In the afternoon drive up to the lush highlands, including the Scalesia (an endemic giant daisy tree) forest and the twin pit craters Los Gemelos. The trip to the highlands includes the islands’ most-famous reptile: the giant tortoises in their wild habitat. What a privilege to see an endangered species roving in this lush environment. The vermilion flycatcher will delight all participants with its scarlet feathers against an emerald green forest. Look for the Darwin’s finches of the highlands (most of them from the tree-finch group), particularly the famous Woodpecker Finch. Return aboard the MV SANTA CRUZ for tonight’s ECO Moment, briefing and dinner. (B,L,D) DAY 06 FRI. GALAPAGOS-QUITO Visiting the famous Charles Darwin Research Station will be certainly a rewarding adventure for this morning's program. It will just require a different approach, in order to accomplish all our travel plans. This outing is an optional program and an early one. We arrive at the Itabaca Channel, between the islands of Baltra and Santa Cruz and disembark at the public dock (dry landing) for a 30-minute bus ride along the highlands in route to Puerto Ayora where changes in vegetation can be witnessed. Upon arrival, we proceed to visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and the rearing in captivity program for the famous giant tortoises. Here we will get to understand the conservation efforts promoted by this institution, and stroll among an impressive giant prickly-pear cactus forest where endemic land birds can be seen. Then, transfer to airport for flight to Quito with transfer to hotel Dann Carlton. (B) DAY 07 SAT. OTAVALO COUNTRY TOUR:
This excursion goes north, to
the land of the Otavalos and South America’s most famous Indian fair along the
Panamerican Highway through dramatic mountain scenery to the textile market of
Otavalo, where guests will enjoy visiting the many stalls full of ponchos,
scarves, blankets, wall hangings, woven belts (fajas), hats, handbags and much
more. Here Otavaleños barter in silence, in marked contrast to the raucous noise
of other markets; take your time to negotiate the best bargains. Then, proceed
to Peguche, an Indian village very near Otavalo that is home to the artisans who
do the weaving in their homes; guests can learn about their culture and everyday
life and then take the cobblestone road to San Pablo, with a stop along the way
at a weaving workshop specialized in fine back strap loom woven textiles. Lunch
is at one of the charming country inns or haciendas of the area. DAY 08 SUN. QUITO-MIAMI: Transfer to the airport for flight to Miami and homeward bound. (B) (SEE OPTIONAL TO CUZCO AND MACHU PICCHU AT THE END OF THIS PAGE)
INCLUDING: Round trip airfare from Miami to Quito via American Airlines. Meeting and transfer service. Tours as noted in itinerary including entrance fees and English speaking naturalist guides. hotel accommodations for 2 nights in Quito, 1 night in Guayaquil with room taxes and service charges with Buffet Breakfast. The 5 day/4 night Galapagos Cruise aboard the M/V SANTA CRUZ –outside main deck twin cabins-with 2 lower berths. Meals as noted in itinerary B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner. · Airfare to/from to Galapagos Island. Tips to airport porters.
NOT INCLUDED: Services not mentioned in itinerary; Passport fees; Galapagos National Park Tax upon entry $100; $10 immigration card to enter Galapagos; Airport departure taxes of $2.00 to $5.00 for local flights in Ecuador; Insurance; Tips to hotel porters and tour guides; USA departure tax/security/fuel surcharges/airport tax of $340 (this is to be paid here in USA at the moment of issuing your airline tickets); Ecuador airport departure tax of $32 to 48 depending on airport; new Fuel surcharge for all Galapagos cruises about $30 per day.
DEPOSITS: US$300.00 per person at the time of booking. Final payment is due 65 days before departure. INSURANCE: Through Insure America, cost for this program starts at US$235-305. Please see information on the Insurance section..(click here) CANCELLATIONS:
**For this special offer valid for July to September only -please deduct US$1728 from child rate (For second child deduct $864). Offer is valid for 2 adults with 2 children (if you have only one child -please deduct $864 for the child)
Same program doing a 4 day/3 night cruise aboard the Santa Cruz... Cost per person 2009: Double US$3310; Triple $3220; Single $5020; Child $2860 Cost per person 2010: Double US$3409; Triple $3310; Single $5128; Child $2896 **From July to September cruises only -deduct US$1296 from the child rate. From 2nd. child deduct $648. Offer is valid for 2 adults with 2 children (if you have only one child -please deduct $648 for the child) **Child rate applies only when traveling with 2 adults.
Extension to the Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest...La Selva Jungle Lodge, Kapawi, The Manatee River boat....
RATES PER PERSON *From Jan.01 to Mar.31 and from Jun.15 to Aug.15 -please add $100 per person. From Dec.09 to 31 -please add $300 per person. NOTE: *Children rate based –sharing room with 2 adults. Note: Upgrade to Boat deck twin standard is $310.00 per person
ADD-ONS & VIA AMERICAN AIRLINES: For same package add $180 from ORL,TPA, JAX, FMY and Zone 1; $220 from ATL; add $250 from BDL, BOS, BWI, EWR, NYC, PHL, RDU, WAS, + Zone 3 - - Add $300 from CHI, CLE, DTT; - Add $330 from DEN, DFW, HOU, MSY, SJU ZONE 2 & 4; Add $390 from LAX, SFO + ZONE 5; Add $410 from Zone 6. RATES SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME
American Airlines Zone Chart: Zone 1: FL; Zone 2: AR, LA, MS, NM, OK, TX; Zone 3: CT, GA, MA, MD, NC, NH, NY, PA, RI, SC, VA, VT; Zone 4: AL, AZ, CO, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MI, MN, MO, NE, OH, SD, TN, WI; Zone 5: CA, ID, NV, UT; Zone 6: OR, WA
Visiting Quito "Queen City of the Andes", Cuenca Otavalo indigenous market and Riobamba
8 days/ 7nights
Day 01 MON. U.S.A-QUITO : Depart Miami, Los Angeles or New York for Quito, Ecuador. Airport reception and transfer to the Hotel Alameda or Dann Carlton for overnight. Day 02 TUE. QUITO: Combined Quito City and Equatorial Monument Tour. Drive through this beautiful city and its colonial center. Possibly visit the Cathedral, Government Palace with a visit to La Compañia Church with its ornate golden altars. Then off for a quick jaunt to the Middle of the Earth at the Equatorial Monument. This is your chance to be in two places at once! Straddle the line and you are in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres or stand directly on the equator and you are nowhere... latitude 0... Overnight at Hotel Alameda or Dann Carlton. (B) Day 03 WED. QUITO-RIOBAMBA:
The adventure starts in
Quito with a bus ride to the neighboring Valley of Sangolquí, for a visit to its
interesting market with many stalls with bright colored produce and interesting
fruit. The specialty of this market: whole roasted pigs, decorated with an
apple on their mouth and chili peppers coming out of their ears are a must-see.
Stop for a snack at a dairy hacienda with cows, horses and llamas. Then the
road advances up and down the slopes of Cotopaxi volcano on to the fertile
Valley of Latacunga for a visit to a rose plantation and a taste of the products
of the land (potatoes and broccoli picked that same morning). Continue by bus
to Urbina and at the foot of imposing Chimborazo volcano, to visit a Tagua nut
workshop and warm up with a canelazo by the fireplace. Arrive to Riobamba
for dinner and overnight. Day 04 THU. RIOBAMBA-CUENCA:
After an early breakfast,
transfer to the train station to board the "Chiva Express" a colorful one coach
train, like a bus on tracks. You will leisurely enjoy the ever-changing scenery
as the Chiva Express advances along the ancient tracks in an astonishing ride,
twisting and turning over the Andes, along bridging ravines and river gorges.
Stop at Guamote, an Indian town, for a short visit to an Educational Center for
Adults’ Development and Sustainability. Continue aboard the Chiva to Alausí,
and prepare to go down the Devil’s Nose switch backs, one of the most impressive
feats of rail engineering in the world, and back to Alausí, where a snack is
served. Continue south along the Andes by motorcar to Cuenca, visiting the
Inca Ruins of Ingapirca to arrive at dusk, with a stop for lunch.
Accommodations and all meals at the hotel in Cuenca (B,L,D) Morning sightseeing tour of this beautiful and charming city of Cuenca -which has been recognized as a World Cultural Heritage Site. Its red tiled roofs, cobblestone streets, flowery plazas and museums make it very special. Lunch is served at a cozy restaurant. Late afternoon transfer to the airport to take the flight to Quito. Arrive and transfer to hotel Dann Carlton. (B,L,) Day 06 SAT. OTAVALO-QUITO:
This excursion goes north, to
the land of the Otavalos and South America’s most famous Indian fair along the
Panamerican Highway through dramatic mountain scenery to the textile market of
Otavalo, where guests will enjoy visiting the many stalls full of ponchos,
scarves, blankets, wall hangings, woven belts (fajas), hats, handbags and much
more. Here Otavaleños barter in silence, in marked contrast to the raucous noise
of other markets; take your time to negotiate the best bargains. Then, proceed
to Peguche, an Indian village very near Otavalo that is home to the artisans who
do the weaving in their homes; guests can learn about their culture and everyday
life and then take the cobblestone road to San Pablo, with a stop along the way
at a weaving workshop specialized in fine backs trap loom woven textiles. Lunch
is at one of the charming country inns or haciendas of the area.
Day 07 SUN. QUITO: Day 08 MON. QUITO-USA: Transfer to the airport.
INCLUDED: * Meeting and transfer service in all destinations in Ecuador. * Tours as noted including entrance fees with English speaking guides. * Seven nights hotel accommodations room taxes and service charges. * Ground transportation to Otavalo and Riobamba * Expresso Metropolitano from Quito to Riobamba and Cuenca. * Airfare from Miami to Quito via American Airlines. (see add-ons from more than 100 USA cities at the end of page) * Tips to airport porters only. Local airfare Cuenca-Quito.
NOT INCLUDED: Services not mentioned or Passport fees.* Departure taxes: when departing USA $340 (Inc. USA airport tax/security/fuel surcharges).* Meals except as noted in itinerary, tips to porters, guides and tour bus drivers. *Insurance * international departure tax USD48 per person, Guayaquil however will remain at USD32 per person.
RATES PER PERSON FROM MIAMI (see add-ons from other cities below) *From Jan.01 to Mar.31 and from Jun.15 to Aug.15 -please add $100 per person. From Dec.09 to 31 -please add $300 per person.
ADD-ONS & VIA AMERICAN AIRLINES: For same package add $180 from ORL,TPA, JAX, FMY and Zone 1; $220 from ATL; add $250 from BDL, BOS, BWI, EWR, NYC, PHL, RDU, WAS, + Zone 3 - - Add $300 from CHI, CLE, DTT; - Add $330 from DEN, DFW, HOU, MSY, SJU ZONE 2 & 4; Add $390 from LAX, SFO + ZONE 5; Add $410 from Zone 6. RATES SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME
American Airlines Zone Chart: Zone 1: FL; Zone 2: AR, LA, MS, NM, OK, TX; Zone 3: CT, GA, MA, MD, NC, NH, NY, PA, RI, SC, VA, VT; Zone 4: AL, AZ, CO, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MI, MN, MO, NE, OH, SD, TN, WI; Zone 5: CA, ID, NV, UT; Zone 6: OR, WA
INSURANCE: Tara Tours Inc. strongly recommends that you purchased Travel Insurance. Insure America has designed a policy for Tara Tour’s client. (Please see cost, inclusions on our Insurance Page).
OPTIONAL TO THE AMAZON -LA SELVA LODGE: You can take an optional tour to discover The Amazon Rain Forest at La Selva Jungle Lodge before you start your tour "Highlands of Ecuador" .You will arrive on Tuesday in Quito and from Wednesday to Saturday you will stay at the beautiful "La Selva Jungle Lodge" which includes all your meals, jungle excursion, canoe trips, airfare from Quito to Coca and transfers to La Selva. The price, also includes your transfers in Quito and 2 extra nights at hotel Alameda (Tuesday and Saturday night).
Cost per person: Sharing double $1051.00; Sharing Triple $968.00; Single $1,393 Not Included: Meals in Quito, insurance, tips to guides & drivers, vaccinations and any other service not specifically mentioned in itinerary.
Visiting Quito "Queen City of the Andes" and cruise around the Galapagos Islands aboard deluxe yacht "Eric", "Flamingo" or "Letty" (7 nights cruise)
11 day/10 night Program
DAY 01 FRI. MIAMI-QUITO Depart Miami for Quito, Ecuador. After going through customs and immigration, you will be transferred to hotel selected. (B) DAY 02 SAT. QUITO Afternoon drive along the northern residential section and see the impressive Parliament Building. Then stroll downtown to visit the colonial temple and monasteries designated by UNESCO a World Heritage Site. Visit San Agustine Convent with its colonial cloisters, coffered ceilings and vast collection of paintings. Continue to the Independence Plaza flanked by the Cathedral, Presidential Palace, Municipal Building and Archbishop's Palace. Next, visit the great church and Monastery of San Francisco with the Virgin of Quito at its main altar. Your scenic tour ends at a lookout point with a great view of Quito.(B) DAY 03 SUN. QUITO-GUAYAQUIL-BALTRA-GALAPAGOS Morning transfer to the airport for flight to Guayaquil and Baltra Island. Reception and transfer to the private yacht Eric (carries only 20 passengers in 10 double cabins with private bathrooms and air conditioning). This afternoon, visit Bachas Beach where we enjoy a subtle introduction to the Galapagos with a beautiful beach and opportunity to snorkel. A visit to Black Turtle Cove consists of a panga ride through a series of mangroves surrounded by coves. Here we can see sea turtles mating (September to February), white-tipped sharks, spotted eagle rays and yellow cow-nosed rays. (B, L, D) DAY
04 MON: Darwin Bay- Prince Philip’s Steps, Tower Island We spend the entire day on TOWER (Genovesa), one of the most spectacular Islands in Galapagos. After a wet landing on Darwin Bay’s coral beach, wind your way past tide pools where swallow-tailed and lava gulls gather. Enter a forest of mangroves where colonies of great frigatebirds nest. The males inflate their red-throated pouches to attract females that fly overhead. After swimming or sea kayaking, take a panga ride along the jagged shoreline. See the beautiful red-billed tropic bird. At Prince Philip’s Steps, find storm petrels and the elusive short-eared owl, and watch the famous red-footed boobies nesting in palo santo trees.(B, L, D) DAY 05 TUE: Cerro Dragon-Rabida This morning explore the newsly open site called Cerro Dragon (Dragon Hill) on the north end of Santa Cruz. Follow a footpath to endemic land iguanas. Once part of the Darwin Station's breeding program, these repatriated iguanas display orange-yellow skin and large spines along their backs. Walk quietly to keep from startling pink flamingos that feed in the salt-water lagoon. Along the trail, keep your eyes open for Darwin Finches and Yellow Warblers. From the top of Dragon Hill, enjoy a majestic view of the bay. In the afternoon, disembark on RABIDA Island (Jervis) located off James Island. Rabida sports the most diversified volcanic rocks of all the islands and why it’s often called the geographic center of Galapagos. The dark-red beach originated from the erosion of volcanic stones. Follow a trail leads to a salt-water lagoon, and, hopefully, observe Greater Flamingos as they feed. Brown Pelicans nest in the mangroves at the far side of the lagoon. After your walk, don a mask and snorkel and slip into the ocean for some undersea excitement.(B, L, D) DAY 06 WED: Tagus Cove, Isabela - Punta Espinoza, Fernandina Island This morning, we visit Tagus Cove, ISABELA. Six volcanoes flowed together and formed Isabela, the largest Island in Galapagos. On a nature walk, discover a salt-water lagoon, a scenic overlook, and a spectacular view of lava fields, volcanic formations and the ocean. Note graffiti dating back to the 1800's is written on the rocky cliffs. Explore Tagus Cove in pangas or sea kayaks and find Galapagos penguins and other seabirds. After lunch, we cross the Bolivar Canal and disembark at Punta Espinoza, FERNANDINA. Located in the western part of the archipelago, Fernandina is the youngest and most pristine Island found in Galapagos. Hundreds of marine iguanas, the largest colony in Galapagos, bask in the sun along the rugged shoreline. Observe sea lion harems with resident bulls carefully guarding their territory. Flightless Cormorants build their nest on the point and Galapagos Hawk fly overhead. Evidence of recent lava flows formed by an active volcano stretch their way around the coast. (B, L, D) DAY 07 THU: Puerto Egas, Santiago-Bartolome This morning, stroll along the shore at Puerto Egas, SANTIAGO (James) looking for octopus, starfish and other sea life caught in the tide pools. At low tide, catch a glimpse of marine iguanas as they feed on exposed green algae. Watch for great blue herons, lava herons, oystercatchers and yellow-crowned night herons. Our walk ends at the grottos, deep pools of clear water where we encounter fur sea lions once on the verge of extinction. On Bartolome, it seems like we are walking on the moon. This young Island is inhospitable to most plants and animals. After a dry landing, climb 30 minutes up a steep slope to the summit of a once active volcano. Pause along theway to marvel at lava bombs, spatter cones and cinder cones. From the top, gaze out across a panoramic view including the famous "Pinnacle Rock", an eroded tuff cone. Down below, crystal cleat water invites you to snorkel with schools of tropical fish. Penguins often swim in this area. On the other side of the Island encounter sea turtles and white-tipped sharks. (B, L, D) DAY 08 FRI: Highlands-Darwin Station, Santa Cruz Island This morning, climb aboard a bus and take an excursion to the highlands of SANTA CRUZ Island. Watch the scenery change as we wind our way through all seven vegetation zones found in Galapagos. From June to January you can find giant tortoises on a private farm in the highlands. The rest of the year, we visit Los Gemelos "The Twins", a pair of large pit craters where we find the bright red male vermilion flycatcher. Afterwards, we head to "the tunnels", the largest lava tubes found in Galapagos. After lunch, we visit the Charles Darwin Research Station. Scientists from all over the globe work at the station and conduct biological research from amatomy to zoology. Get your picture taken with the giant tortoises. Observe year-old tortoises and learn about the captive-breeding program. Next, stroll through the town of Puerto Ayora (population: 10,000) –the largest town in the Galapagos. Buy souvenirs, mail postcards and absorb local charm in the social heart of the Islands.(B, L, D) DAY 09 SAT: Gardner Bay / Punta Suárez, Espanola (Hood) This morning, step onto Gardner Bay, ESPANOLA (HOOD). Walk along seemingly endless stretches of sandy beach where you’ll find colonies of sea lions. Swim and snorkel with the sea lions and enjoy the colorful diversity of sea life near Gardner Islet. This afternoon, we disembark at Punta Suarez, ESPANOLA, where we witness the highest rate of "endemicism" in the Galapagos. Sea lions noisily green us as we land on their beach. Curious mockingbirds peck at our shoelaces. From April to November waved albatross perform their wild mating rituals only on Espanola. Colonies of blue-footed boobies engage in "sky-pointing" while masked boobies busily care for their young. Stunning swallow-tailed gulls and red-billed tropicbirds take shelter under the cliffs. Other species endemic to Espanola include Darwin’s Finches, Galapagos Doves and Galapagos Hawks. Observe a unique specie of marine iguana identified with traces of red and green colorings. Colorful sally light foot crabs crawl along the shoreline near to the famous "blow hole". (B, L, D) DAY 10 SUN: Daphne Major-Baltra-QUITO This morning, we cruise the small islets of Daphne major and minor for good views of these partially-eroded tuff formations. We arrive to Baltra in time for your early flight back to the QUITO on Tame Airlines. Transfer to your hotel (B) DAY 11 MON. QUITO-USA Transfer to the airport for flight to Miami and homeward bound. (B)
INCLUDING: Meeting and transfer service. · Tours as noted in itinerary including entrance fees and English speaking guides. · Hotel selected for 3 nights including room taxes and service charges. · The 8 day/7 night Galapagos Cruise aboard the Yacht Eric, Flamingo or Letty. · Meals as noted in itinerary B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner. · Airfare from Miami to Quito and San Cristobal Island . · Tips to airport porters.
NOT INCLUDED:
Services not mentioned in itinerary; Passport fees; Galapagos National Park Tax upon entry $100; $10 immigration card to enter Galapagos; Airport departure taxes of $2.00 to $5.00 for local flights in Ecuador; Insurance; Tips to hotel porters and tour guides; USA departure tax/security/fuel surcharges/airport tax of $340 (this is to be paid here in USA at the moment of issuing your airline tickets); Ecuador airport departure tax of $32 to 48 depending on which airport; new fuel surcharge for all Galapagos cruises ...about $30 per day (we will advise you at the time of making reservations).
DEPARTURE DATES: Independent departures every Sunday. Please call for availability. DEPOSITS: US$500.00 per person at the time of booking. Final payment is due 60 days before departure. INSURANCE: Through Insure America, cost for this program starts at US$305-340. Please see information on back page. CANCELLATIONS: Cancellations must be in writing and received by Tara Tours Inc. Penalties are as follows prior to departure date: - At any time....deposit to Galapagos cruises of $300 is not refundable. - 120-61 days $350 penalty per passenger service charge. - 60-31 days 50% penalty - 30 or less -no refunds
RATES PER PERSON including airfare from Miami (see add-ons from other USA cities below) NOTE: If international air is not desired...please deduct $500. * From Jan.01 to Mar.31 and from Jun.15 to Aug.15 -please add $100 per person. From Dec.09 to 31 -please add $300 per person. * For upgrade to hotels Hilton or JW Marriott -please add $358 per person for Double, $313 for Triple, for Single 610 * Rates are based on Iguana Deck (lower berth). For Boobie or Dolphin Deck please add US$300.00 per person
Extension to the Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest...La Selva Jungle Lodge, Kapawi, The Manatee River boat....
ADD-ONS & VIA AMERICAN AIRLINES: For same package add $180 from ORL,TPA, JAX, FMY and Zone 1; $220 from ATL; add $250 from BDL, BOS, BWI, EWR, NYC, PHL, RDU, WAS, + Zone 3 - - Add $300 from CHI, CLE, DTT; - Add $330 from DEN, DFW, HOU, MSY, SJU ZONE 2 & 4; Add $390 from LAX, SFO + ZONE 5; Add $410 from Zone 6. RATES SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME
American Airlines Zone Chart: Zone 1: FL; Zone 2: AR, LA, MS, NM, OK, TX; Zone 3: CT, GA, MA, MD, NC, NH, NY, PA, RI, SC, VA, VT; Zone 4: AL, AZ, CO, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MI, MN, MO, NE, OH, SD, TN, WI; Zone 5: CA, ID, NV, UT; Zone 6: OR, WA
Exploring the Galapagos Islands aboard the deluxe M/V Explorer II for 4 days, Cuzco and "The Lost City of the Inkas" Machu Picchu
14 Days/13 Nights Departs every Sunday from Miami, New York, Los Angeles.
DAY 01 SUN. USA-QUITO: Depart USA with American Airlines. Airport reception and transfer to the five star hotel Marriot. DAY 02 MON. QUITO: Afternoon sightseeing tour of Quito, known as "Queen of the Andes" - visiting the modern Legislative Palace, San Agustin Monastery, Independence Square, La Compania Church, the Cathedral and many other places of interest in old and new Quito. (B) DAY 03 TUE. OTAVALO COUNTRY TOUR This excursion goes north, to the land of the Otavalos and South America’s most famous Indian fair along the Panamerican Highway through dramatic mountain scenery to the textile market of Otavalo, where guests will enjoy visiting the many stalls full of ponchos, scarves, blankets, wall hangings, woven belts (fajas), hats, handbags and much more. Here Otavaleños barter in silence, in marked contrast to the raucous noise of other markets; take your time to negotiate the best bargains. Then, proceed to Peguche, an Indian village very near Otavalo that is home to the artisans who do the weaving in their homes; guests can learn about their culture and everyday life and then take the cobblestone road to San Pablo, with a stop along the way at a weaving workshop specialized in fine backstrap loom woven textiles. Lunch is at one of the charming country inns or haciendas of the area. (B,L) DAY 04 WED-QUITO-SAN CRISTOBAL Transfer to the airport for your flight to San Cristobal Island in Galapagos Islands to board the M/V "Galapagos Explorer II.
Your
first day in Galapagos you'll visit one location near San Cristobal Island. At Cerro
Brujo (wet landing), you wil ll go to the beach for swimming and snorkeling
activities. You can see: blue footed boobies, brown pelicans, coast bird (whimbrels,
sander lings, etc), Darwin’s finches, yellow warblers. Free time to walk on
the beach. Morning at Punta Suarez (Hood Island) which is on the west end of Española, has a landing beach where visitors are generally greeted by a colony of sea lions. On the nearby lava rocks one of the most colorful subspecies of marine iguana can be found, along with brilliant red Sally light-foot crabs. Among the birds in the immediate area are long-billed mockingbirds, Galapagos doves, short-eared owls, an occasional lava heron, oystercatchers and swallow-tailed gulls. Behind Punta Suarez, on a cliff plateau, blue-footed and masked boobies nest. Beyond the booby colonies and farther inland, are many waived albatross colonies. Afternoon
at Gardner Bay in Española Island Morning at Puerto Ayora in Santa Cruz Island. P. Ayora is famous because the Charles Darwin Research Station. A wildlife reserve has been set aside under the guidance of the Ecuadorian Land Commission and the Charles Darwin Station. Tortoises from different islands can also be seen in captivity at the Charles Darwin Station at Puerto Ayora. Afternoon
at Rábida Island. DAY 07 SAT. GALAPAGOS-BALTRA-GUAYAQUIL Morning at Bachas Beach in Santa Cruz Island It is White sand beach where you can see some nesting site for sea turtles, a small lagoon, whimbrels, heron, pelican, Sally Lightfoot crab and other species. Then continue to the airport for flight to Guayaquil where you will be transferred to hotel Hilton. (B) DAY 08 SUN. GUAYAQUIL-LIMA: Reception and transfer to the new Hotel JW Marriott located in Miraflores and facing the Pacific Ocean . Afternoon sightseeing tour of Lima, founded by Francisco Pizarro in 1535 and called "City of Kings". Your guided tour will take you to see the most important sites of modern and colonial Lima. (B) DAY 09 MON. LIMA-CUZCO: Transfer to the airport for flight to Cuzco. Reception and transfer to the Hotel Libertador. Afternoon city tour of Cuzco and the surrounding valley and ruins of Kenko, Tambomachay, Puca-Pucara and the Fortress of Sacsayhuaman. (B) DAY 10 TUE. CUZCO-MACHU PICCHU: Full day excursion via alpine train to Machu Picchu. Early morning transfer to the train station for your 3 1/2 hour train ride along the Urubamba river to Putucusi bridge, then by bus up to the ruins of Machu Picchu. Here your guide will explain the advanced world of the Inkas. Overnight in Machu Picchu at hotel El Pueblo Inkaterra. (B,D) DAY 11 WED. MACHU PICCHU-CUZCO: Morning at leisure to explore the magnificent archeological site on your own. Late afternoon return to Cuzco by train and to the Hotel Libertador for overnight. (B) Day 12 THU. CUZCO: At leisure to walk and experience "The Capital of the Inka Empire". Cuzco is like an open museum, full of Inka buildings, temples, palaces -and beautiful Spanish churches. Also great shopping! (sweaters, alpaca rugs, ceramics, silver & gold jewelry). (B) DAY 13 FRI. CUZCO-LIMA: Morning transfer to the airport for flight to Lima and transfer to hotel JW Marriott with great views of the Pacific Ocean. (B) DAY 14 SAT. LIMA-USA: Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the USA and homeward bound. Along with the souvenirs, you will carry memories of your journey through the Galapagos and Machu Picchu. (B)
INCLUDING: Tips to porters at airports and ports (not at hotels); tours as mentioned in itinerary including entrance fees and English speaking tour guides; Five star hotel accommodations for 10 nights including room taxes and service charges of 15% in Ecuador and 25% in Peru (including the 4 day/3 night Galapagos cruise aboard the deluxe M/V Explorer); round trip bus/train tickets to Machu Picchu; meals as noted B=Breakfast, L=Lunch and D=Dinner; all transfers to airport, hotel and ports; airfare via American Airlines from Miami to Quito, and Lima. Also local airfares to Galapagos, Quito-Lima and Lima-Cuzco-Lima.
NOT INCLUDED:
Services not mentioned in itinerary; Passport fees; Galapagos National Park Tax upon entry $100; $10 immigration card to enter Galapagos; Airport departure taxes of $2.00 to $5.00 for local flights in Ecuador and Peru; Insurance; Tips to hotel porters and tour guides; USA departure tax/security/fuel surcharges/airport tax of $340 (this is to be paid here in USA at the moment of issuing your airline tickets); Ecuador airport departure tax of $32 to 48 depending on airport; new fuel surcharge for all Galapagos cruises ...about $30 per day (we will advise you at the time of making reservations). Peru airport departure taxes of $30.
DEPOSITS/PAYMENTS: US$600.00 per person at the time of booking. Full payment is due 60 days prior to departure. CANCELLATIONS: Penalties are as follows prior to departure date: - At any time....deposit to Galapagos cruises of $300 is not refundable. - 120-61 days $350 penalty per passenger service charge. - 60-31 days 50% penalty - 30 or less -no refunds
INSURANCE: Through Insure America, cost for this program starts at US$445-483. Please see information on back page.
RATES PER PERSON NOTE: If international air is not desired...please deduct $500. * From Jan.01 to Mar.31 and from Jun.15 to Aug.15 -please add $100 per person. From Dec.15 to 31 -please add $300 per person due to high season airfares. * Rates have been based on Classic Suite (Magellan/Columbus deck) for Premium Suite (Marco Polo deck add $145 per person). Group rates available upon request.
ADD-ONS & VIA AMERICAN AIRLINES: For same package add $180 from ORL,TPA, JAX, FMY and Zone 1; $220 from ATL; add $250 from BDL, BOS, BWI, EWR, NYC, PHL, RDU, WAS, + Zone 3 - - Add $300 from CHI, CLE, DTT; - Add $330 from DEN, DFW, HOU, MSY, SJU ZONE 2 & 4; Add $390 from LAX, SFO + ZONE 5; Add $410 from Zone 6. RATES SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME
American Airlines Zone Chart: Zone 1: FL; Zone 2: AR, LA, MS, NM, OK, TX; Zone 3: CT, GA, MA, MD, NC, NH, NY, PA, RI, SC, VA, VT; Zone 4: AL, AZ, CO, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MI, MN, MO, NE, OH, SD, TN, WI; Zone 5: CA, ID, NV, UT; Zone 6: OR, WA
Cancellations must be in writing and received by Tara Tours Inc. Penalties are as follows prior to departure date: - At any time....deposit to Galapagos cruises of $300 is not refundable. - 120-61 days $350 penalty per passenger service charge. - 60-31 days 50% penalty - 30 or less -no refunds
GALAPAGOS & MACHU PICCHU
Cruising Galapagos aboard the M/V LEGEND for 4 days and then Visit Machu Picchu
10 days/9 nights
DAY 01 SUN. MIAMI-GUAYAQUIL Arrive Guayaquil with transfer to hotel HAMPTON INN. Transfer to the airport for flight to Galapagos. Welcome at Baltra Airport . Briefing on ship´s facilities at lounge given by guides as well as National Park. Safety drill practice with passengers, crew and guides. Afternoon visit North Seymour Island . After a dry landing guests will encounter Swallow Tailed Gulls and Sea Lions. This site is also known for being a major nesting colony for Blue Footed Boobies, and the largest colony of the Magnificent Frigate Bird. (a different species from the Great Frigate Bird). Travelers will also spot both endemic species of iguanas, the Marine Iguanas and Land Iguanas. Passengers will enjoy this relaxed hike around the nesting sites. (B,L,D) Morning at Genovesa Island . Best known as "the island of birds." Passengers enjoy the safe harbor of being anchored deep
within the crater formed bay. A dry landing at El Barranco (Prince Philip's Steps). Passengers will walk on lava terrain observing Red Footed Boobies, Frigates, and the fragrant Palo Santo trees. Thousands of Storm Petrels can be seen hovering over the open expanses. Your second visit is a refreshing wet landing, travelers visit Darwin Bay . Visitors will enjoy observing the Red-Footed Boobies, Frigates, Sea Lions, Lava Gulls, Night Herons, and Fiddler Crabs at this site. This site also offers snorkeling in the bay to observe sharks and rays at a safe distance. Passengers never forget the beaches on this island. (B,L,D) AM Española Island . Travelers enjoy a dry landing at Suarez Point. Upon landing visitors will learn more about the lava terrain while crossing the inactive lava fields.. Aside from the Sea Lion colonies, this is one of the most important sites for bird watching. As soon as visitors step foot on this island many species can be spotted and observed up close. Among the many species, the Hooded Mocking bird and Red Billed Tropic Bird can be seen. Travelers will also spot a large colony of Marine Iguanas, Lava Lizards, and the colorful Sally Light Foot Crabs. After a short trek visitors encounter colonies of masked and blue-footed boobies. Nesting grounds sometimes overlap the trail. Visitors will also find Galapagos Doves, Hawks and Swallow-Tailed Gulls. After crossing the nesting grounds you will reach the world's largest colony of Waved Albatross (15000 approx.), Their mating rituals are a highlight. Nearing the end of this excursion passengers will visit the famous blowhole, where water shoots into the air at almost 23
mts. (75 ft.). Afternoon at San Cristóbal Island . Dry landing at Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. Here passengers visit the Interpretation Center providing travelers an opportunity to learn about the natural and human history of the islands through an hour-long interactive presentation. There is some time to shop in town.
(B,L,D) The
M/V Legend arrives
at S.Cruz Island. Disembark and transfer to the airport for flight to Guayaquil
for connection to Lima. Arrive and transfer to hotel Faraona.
(B) Transfer to the airport for flight to
Cuzco. Reception and transfer to the HOTEL DON CARLOS. Afternoon city tour of Cuzco and the surrounding valley and ruins of
Kenko, Tambomachay, Puca-Pucara and the Fortress of Sacsayhuaman. (B) Full day excursion by train to the most mysterious and energetic place of the Inka civilization. Early morning your tour guide will pick you up and transfer you to the train station for your 3 1/2 hour trip with spectacular views of the Urubamba River and the Andean mountain range to Machu
Picchu. Temples, palaces, towers and staircases are built into the side of the mountain. Here your tour guide will take you from site to site explaining the advanced world of the
Inkas.(B) Day at leisure to explore the area on your own or take an optional tour to visit one of the colorful indian markets held on Sundays nearby Cuzco. HOTEL DON CARLOS (B) DAY 09 MON. CUZCO-LIMA Transfer to the airport for flight to Lima with transfer to HOTEL FARAONA. (B) DAY 10 TUE. LIMA-MIAMI Transfer to the airport. (B)
RATES PER PERSON * From Jan.01 to Mar.31 and from Jun.15 to Aug.15 -please add $100 per person (high season for the air portion). From Dec.09 to 31 -please add $300 per person.
Children under 12 years old –sharing room with 2 adults, 20 % discount. Note: Upgrade to Junior Suite for $300 per person. For the Legend suites add $520 per person.
NOT INCLUDED: Services not mentioned in itinerary; Passport fees; Galapagos National Park Tax upon entry $100; $10 immigration card to enter Galapagos; Airport departure taxes of $2.00 to $5.00 for local flights in Ecuador and Peru; Insurance; Tips to hotel porters and tour guides; USA departure tax/security/fuel surcharges/airport tax of $340 (this is to be paid here in USA at the moment of issuing your airline tickets); Ecuador airport departure tax of $32 to 48 depending on airport; new fuel surcharge for all Galapagos cruises ...about $30 per day (we will advise you at the time of making reservations). Peru airport departure tax of $30 per person.
ADD-ONS & VIA AMERICAN AIRLINES: For same package add $180 from ORL, TPA, JAX, FMY and Zone 1; $220 from ATL; add $250 from BDL, BOS, BWI, EWR, NYC, PHL, RDU, WAS, + Zone 3 - - Add $300 from CHI, CLE, DTT; - Add $330 from DEN, DFW, HOU, MSY, SJU ZONE 2 & 4; Add $390 from LAX, SFO + ZONE 5; Add $410 from Zone 6. RATES SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME
American Airlines Zone Chart: Zone 1: FL; Zone 2: AR, LA, MS, NM, OK, TX; Zone 3: CT, GA, MA, MD, NC, NH, NY, PA, RI, SC, VA, VT; Zone 4: AL, AZ, CO, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MI, MN, MO, NE, OH, SD, TN, WI; Zone 5: CA, ID, NV, UT; Zone 6: OR, WA
Cancellations must be in writing and received by Tara Tours Inc. Penalties are as follows prior to departure date: - At any time....deposit to Galapagos cruises of $300 is not refundable. - 120-61 days $350 penalty per passenger service charge. - 60-31 days 50% penalty - 30 or less -no refunds
Exploring Quito "Queen city of the Andes", Galapagos aboard The M/V Explorer and visiting the Amazon Rain Forest at La Selva Lodge
12 Days/ 11 nights
DAY 01 SUN. MIAMI-QUITO Afternoon sightseeing tour of Quito, known as "Queen of the Andes" - visiting the modern Legislative Palace, San Agustin Monastery, Independence Square, La Compania Church, the Cathedral and many other places of interest in old and new Quito. (B) DAY 03 TUE. OTAVALO COUNTRY TOUR This excursion goes north, to the land of the Otavalos and South America’s most famous Indian fair along the Panamerican Highway through dramatic mountain scenery to the textile market of Otavalo, where guests will enjoy visiting the many stalls full of ponchos, scarves, blankets, wall hangings, woven belts (fajas), hats, handbags and much more. Here Otavaleños barter in silence, in marked contrast to the raucous noise of other markets; take your time to negotiate the best bargains. Then, proceed to Peguche, an Indian village very near Otavalo that is home to the artisans who do the weaving in their homes; guests can learn about their culture and everyday life and then take the cobblestone road to San Pablo, with a stop along the way at a weaving workshop specialized in fine backs trap loom woven textiles. Lunch is at one of the charming country inns or haciendas of the area. (B,L) DAY 04 WED. QUITO-GALAPAGOS FLIGHT
Early morning transfer to the Quito airport on time for your
flight to San Cristobal Island which is the eastern most of the Galapagos
Islands. Puerto Baquerizo Moreno is the capital of the Galapagos province and
the location of the extraordinary Interpretation Center for Galapagos National
Park. You will board ship and settle into your cabin.
RATES PER PERSON * From Jan.01 to Mar.31 and from Jun.15 to Aug.15 -please add $100 per person (high season for the air portion). From Dec.09 to 31 -please add $300 per person.
Children under 12 years old –sharing room with 2 adults, 20 % discount. Note: Upgrades at the M/V Explorer: for Premium Suite add $170 per person/double (Triple $150 pp; Single $306) For Deluxe balcony Suite US$475 per person double (Triple $450; Single $855)
EXTENSIONS
BARCELO COLON MIRAMAR -SALINAS BEACH, ECUADOR
It is a 5 star Hotel and located right on the beach in Salinas Ecuador , 90 miles from Guayaquil city and the airport. This hotel is one of the top holiday hotels in South America, boasting first class services and facilities. Its variety of event rooms also make it a popular spot for groups, conventions and conferences. It is an ideal location for families, fishing enthusiasts, water sports and relaxing, first rate spa treatments.
Barceló All Inclusive Program
Including: Buffet-style breakfast, lunch and dinner A la carte evening meals are also available (Reservation required) Lunches and snacks are served at the buffet restaurant, or at the poolside snack bar (hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken breasts, salads and other assorted dishes) Local beverages with meals including soft drinks, fruit juices and local beers Drinks in bars: Local alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages Entertainment and sports: Day and nighttime entertainment programs.
4 days/3 nights program Daily departures from Guayaquil
Children rate apply when child is from 2 to 12 years old and shares room with 2 adults. All rates are subject to change at any time. Please call your Travel Agent or Tara Tours 1-800-327-0080. For more information about the Barcelo Colon Miramar please click here
Red Mangrove Galapagos Expedition
**Free air to Galapagos from Sep 16 to Dec.15
Tickets must be issue by Aug.04, 2010
Visiting the city of Quito, Guayaquil and exploring Galapagos with the Red Mangrove Lodges
8 days/ 7 nights
More
programs to Ecuador & Peru with Bolivia in
Combined Countries section
or more Galapagos boats at www.galapagos-amazoncruises.com
Coral I & II; Eric,Letty,Flamingo; M/V Explorer; La Pinta; S.CruzIsabela; The Eclipse SS Saguita; SS Mary Anne; MS Diamante; MY Samba; MS Beagle; Queen Galapagos; Estrella del Mar I; Evolution; Lammer Law; Mistral, Alta; Parranda; Finch Bay; Hotel Finch Bay Diving
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This
excursion goes north, to the land of the Otavalos and South America’s most
famous Indian fair along the Panamericana Highway through dramatic mountain
scenery to the textile market of Otavalo, where guests will enjoy visiting the
many stalls full of ponchos, scarves, blankets, wall hangings, woven belts (fajas),
hats, handbags and much more. Here Otavaleños barter in silence, in marked
contrast to the raucous noise of other markets; take your time to negotiate the
best bargains. Then, proceed to Peguche, an Indian village very near Otavalo
that is home to the artisans who do the weaving in their homes; guests can learn
about their culture and everyday life and then take the cobblestone road to San
Pablo, with a stop along the way at a weaving workshop specialized in fine
back strap loom woven textiles. Lunch is at one of the charming country inns or
haciendas of the area.
DAY 04
WED-QUITO-SAN CRISTOBAL
