Worldwide 2024-25

The Galápagos Islands
Unique & rare species • Close encounters
with wildlife • Year-round destination
A visit to these remarkable isolated islands
along the equator is regarded as one of the
world’s greatest travel experiences. The
fascinating wildlife of the Galápagos has
adapted to a unique environment of stark lava
formations, cactus forests and lush highlands
without influence from the mainland. As a
result, the animals have never learned to
fear humans, allowing for extraordinary close
observation and endless photo opportunities.
Spot endemic species such as the giant tortoise
and the marine iguana, and abundant birdlife
including blue-footed, red-footed and Nazca
boobies, greater and magnificent frigate birds,
flightless cormorants, waved albatrosses,
Galápagos penguins, and Darwin’s finches.
Marine life is varied, ranging from Galápagos
sea lions, fur seals, whales, dolphins and
sharks, to colourful Sally Lightfoot crabs and
tropical fish.
The Galápagos Islands are accessed from
mainland Ecuador via the local airports on
Baltra and San Cristóbal, and can be explored
from an expedition cruise at sea, or from a
land-based hotel or lodge.
Blue-footed booby, Galápagos Islands
Endemic
Small boats & catamarans
Accommodating up to 16 guests, the small
yachts and catamarans have a more intimate
atmosphere and are suited to those who prefer
a more interactive cruise. These superior or
luxury vessels offer comfortable cabins, some
with private balconies, a bar-lounge, spacious
sun deck, and inside and outside dining areas.
Complimentary snorkelling equipment and
kayaks are often provided.
Isabella II
Medium-sized & large cruisers
The bigger boats accommodate from 40 up to
100 passengers and offer a greater stability at
rougher seas, more spacious social areas and
the most comprehensive range of facilities
including observation lounges, a library and
reading room, a separate dining room, fitness
room and hot tubs. Service is excellent and
daily shore excursions are still provided in
small groups with expert naturalist guides.
Giant tortoise, Galápagos Islands
Galápagos by land
Four inhabited islands on the archipelago
(Santa Cruz, Isabela, Floreana and San
Cristóbal) offer a number of hotels and lodges
for those who prefer to avoid long durations
at sea. Experiences can be better tailored by
choosing from a range of boat excursions
or land-based activities. Scenic inter-island
flights have led to increasingly popular island
hopping, or multi-centred combinations.
Suggested itinerary
Classic Ecuador
11 days & 8 nights
from £5,595 (incl. flights)
Category • Superior
Explore the highlights of mainland Ecuador
and take a cruise to see the unique wildlife
of the Galápagos Islands.
Days 1 & 2: Fly to Quito via Amsterdam
Fly to Quito for a 2-night stay. Take a city
tour. (N) (B)
Day 3: Cotopaxi • Riobamba
Visit Cotopaxi National Park and continue
south to Riobamba. Stay overnight. (B, L, D)
Day 4: Ingapirca • Cuenca
Drive to Alausi. Ride the switchback train
along the Devil’s Nose (subject to operation)
or visit a local Andean community. Continue
by road via Ingapirca to Cuenca. Stay 2 nights.
(B, L, D)
Day 5: Cuenca
Explore the quaint streets of colonial Cuenca
and nearby artisan villages. (B, L)
Day 6: Cajas • Guayaquil
Travel by road via Cajas National Park to
Guayaquil and stay overnight. (B)
Days 7-9: Fly to the Galápagos
Fly to the Galápagos Islands for a 3-night
cruise. (B, L, D)
Days 10 & 11: Fly home via Guayaquil and
Amsterdam (B) (N)
Extensions: It is possible to extend your time
in the Galápagos with a longer cruise or a
stay at the Finch Bay Eco Hotel.
Tailor-made travel
Contact our experts
020 3627 3097
CoxandKings.co.uk/make-an-enquiry
For more information or to book, contact us on 020 3627 3097 or speak to your travel agent
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