QUOTE
Ecuador & the Galapagos – Science Experience & Research
The Study | Sarah Howard
Activities & Attractions
- Guided walking tour of Quito
- Participate in a multi-day scientific research project on San Cristobal
- Explore San Cristobal: work with organic farmers, visit a tortoise sanctuary, Visit Laguna El Junco, tand more.
- Private boat ride and snorkeling day to Kicker Rock, and additional Galapagos island beaches and hot spots
- Retrace Charles Darwin’s tracks and thoughts on a Darwin walk and discover the interpretative center
- Enjoy Santa Cruz Island
- Participate in a kayak adventure
- Discover the Charles Darwin Research station
Trip Details
Accommodations
9 Nights accommodation in Ecuador
- 3 Nights’ Hotel Accommodation in Quito
- 5 Nights Accommodation on Organic farm in the Galapagos
- 1 Nights Hotel accommodation in Santa Cruz
Meals
- All meals included while on ground in Ecuador
- Water is included for the group while in Ecuador
Transportation
- Flight Price included is an estimate, TBD until 300 day before departure
- Flight 1, Montreal – Quito, Ecuador
- Flight 2, Quito – San Cristobal, Galapagos
- Includes Galapagos Islands Park Fee
- Includes Galapagos Islands Transit Control Card
- Flight 3: Santa Cruz, Galapagos – Quito, Ecuador
- Flight 4: Quito – Montreal
- Includes Airport Departure Tax
- Private Coach/Van transportation as needed for duration of tour
- Boat transfer between Galapagos islands
Additional Personnel
- 1 Evolve Tours Guide for duration of trip
- Additional local guides as needed for duration of tour
Exclusives
- Creative Trip programming and leadership activities
- Videography and Photography
- Forever Green by Evolve Tours- Carbon Offset this whole trip (ask for details)
Insurance
- INCLUDED: youth insurance coverage for medical, cancellation and lost baggage
Package Price is based on
- Prices subject to availability and change until contract signed
- Total Package price may vary if number of paying customers changes
- Does not include airline baggage fees if applicable
- Tips for drivers and guides are appreciated
- Happy with what you see? Sign a 2-year contract with Evolve and pay the same rate for two years. Ask us for more information. *Based on same group size
Itinerary
Day 1: February 26, 2025
Meet at Montreal International Airport for your flight to Quito, Ecuador. Upon arrival, your Evolve leader will greet you at Quito airport and transfer you to our Quito hotel. Accommodations will be in Quito. Dinner on arrival.
Day 2: February 27, 2025
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a Quito walking tour of the Old City. Visit bustling markets, impressive churches, and governmental buildings. Delight in a group lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch, explore the Equator line at Mitad del Mundo and learn about Ecuador’s indigenous groups. Return to the hotel to freshen up before a traditional dinner at Azuca Beach.
Day 3: February 28, 2025
Today, head to the airport for a flight to San Cristobal. Upon arrival, check into Hacienda Tranquila. Engage in meaningful scientific research and learn about sustainable practices on the farm, including efforts related to the Galapagos Tortoise. Enjoy a briefing on scientific research goals.
Day 4 and 5: March 1, 2025
Engage in various projects focusing on controlling introduced species, working with organic farmers, preservation, and reforestation efforts. Visit a Tortoise Sanctuary to learn about their conservation. Enjoy group dinners and free time in the evenings.
Day 6: March 3, 2025
Split into smaller groups for a private boat ride around the island. Enjoy snorkeling and encounters with diverse marine life, including sea lions, turtles, and exotic fish. Return to the Hacienda in the evening for dinner.
Day 7: March 4, 2025
Visit the San Cristobal Centro de Interpretación to learn about the natural and human history of the Galapagos Islands. Explore the coastline, birdwatch, and discover landmarks significant to Darwin’s history on the island.
Day 8: March 5, 2025
Depart from San Cristobal to Santa Cruz Island by a high-speed boat. Explore the natural habitat of the Galápagos tortoise, participate in a kayak adventure, and witness native wildlife. Check-in at El Descanso del Guia and enjoy a group dinner.
Day 9: March 6, 2025
Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to see Galapagos Tortoises and gain insight into conservation efforts. Later, board a flight back to Quito. Settle into the hotel and explore the Mariscal artisanal market for souvenirs before a farewell dinner.
Day 10: March 7, 2025
Transfer to the airport for your journey back home.