Two worlds - Antarctic and tropical. Incredible nature awaits us in the midst of the stormy waters of the Pacific Ocean.
We arrive in Quito, the second highest capital in the world. We are 2850 meters above sea level.
It's time to get to know the local cuisine better. Ecuadorians love different types of grilled meats, especially the Kui guinea pig. Vegetable lovers will appreciate the dishes made from potatoes, corn, cassava roots and green plantains. Canelaso, a hot drink made from fruit juice, cane alcohol, cinnamon and cloves, is especially loved by the locals.
In the morning we fly to the Galapagos Islands, check into a hotel in the town of Puerto Ayora on the island of Santa Cruz. Let`s begin in the Charles Darwin reserch center. Here, an international team of scientists work on research and conservation of the island animals that are not found anywhere else in the world. We will learn about local animals, their life and habits, and understand how exactly on the Galapagos Islands Charles Darwin came up with the idea of evolution.
But isn`t it better to learn out in the wild? Let`s meet local wild animals at arm's length! We will walk around the island admiring huge turtles, iguanas and fur seals. We might also meet pink flamingos.
In the morning we leave for the most beautiful beach of the Galapagos Islands, Tortuga Bay. You can swim here only in specially designated places so as not to dirturb the wild animals that live here. But we will see plenty of marine iguanas, Galapagos crabs, brown pelicans and huge turtles.
We return for lunch, rest and explore the island in jeeps. Today we will see the famous lava tunnels. Only a few thousand years ago, volcanoes erupted here, and only these arches, reminiscent of long caves, remained from the boiling lava flows. Galapagos islands are home to 21 volcanoes, of which 13 are active. Scientists believe that the islands were created millions of years ago by volcanic eruptions on the ocean floor.
This trip is of easy physical grade. It includes city and nature walks, and one easy hike to the top of the volcano 1124 meters above sea level. The hike will take us 5 hours. The trip includes short rides by rented and public transport. We will also take two domestic flights.
Accommodation in guesthouses and hotels with hot water and, in most cases, wifi.
