Tag: Ecuador
Ecuador’s Northern Highlands: Brimming with Culture & Art

Ecuador’s Northern Highlands: Brimming with Culture & Art

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In a small but remarkable region of the Ecuadorian Andes, the area’s local crafts have become famous worldwide. The skill and business acumen of the inhabitants of the province of Imbabura — where about 400,000 people live — have been the basis for the development of this dynamic Ecuadorian region. This is a timeless setting where artisans still rise before the sun to move their looms, turn on old sewing machines, and use chisels, lathes and brushes to cut, shape, and create.

If you travel to Ecuador, don’t overlook this as a privileged natural region, also known as the “Province of Lakes,” where some say the real “Middle of the World” is located. We assure you that you’ll be inspired by the wonderful environment of a region that combines a temperate climate, snow-capped volcanoes, crystal waterfalls, picturesque Andean villages, and an artisanal vein full of contrasts.

Let’s continue on this tour Ecuador’s northern highland province of Imbabura with the eyes of an apprentice anxious to learn the secrets of fiery kilns, carving workshops, century-old adobe houses housing enormous large looms, and modern garment and footwear factories. Here, we share with you a small sample of what is created in Imbabura.

Otavalo

This predominantly indigenous city is located about two hours north of Ecuador’s capital city of Quito. Home to the Kichwa ethnic group, Otavalo is a small town but with a cosmopolitan flair. The village has been declared the “Capital Intercultural Ecuador” due also to the large number of foreigners who visit to experience life in this unique destination.

In addition to its diversity, as well as it restaurants, hostels, haciendas converted into beautiful hotels, streets illuminated with lanterns, and clothing stores, Otavalo’s main attraction is undoubtedly its market. Located in the “Plaza de los Ponchos,” this market is one of the largest craft fairs in Latin America, bustling every Saturday with the arrival of hundreds of artisans, vendors and tourists. To experience this Andean bazaar, visitors come from all over the world. Arriving here, travelers spend hours marveling at the handiworks of craftspeople who have learned the skills of their ancestors and teach these to their descendants. Exhibited for sale in this square are their works: ponchos, tapestries, all kinds of wool garments, fine embroidery (most of them made by hand), carved wooden pieces, jewelry, stone sculptures, accessories, paintings, toquilla artworks, musical instruments and more. Visitors soon find that “bargaining” is a common here and an accepted practice.

In addition to the handicrafts fair, Otavalo boosts another attraction: Its animal market. Every Saturday, starting at 6:00 a.m., this exotic fair exhibits everything from chicks to llamas, as well as rabbits, guinea pigs, cows, sheep, goats, horses, and cats and dogs. It’s a scene that seems frozen in time.

Cotacachi

Walking through the city of Cotacachi is like walking through a great showcase. All kinds of leather goods — jackets, pants, belts, wallets, shoes, jackets, bags, and more — are seen in the windows of dozens of shops along the streets of this town of 40,000 inhabitants.

Although many of the models follow international fashion lines, Cotacachi’s own designs are also on show. Added to the styles, the prices are well below those in found in foreign cities and even large Ecuadorian cities. This combination of quality, style and value attract thousands of people to the town, especially on weekends, as they wander through Cotacachi’s narrow streets in search of the perfect garment or accessory.

But Cotacachi is not just leather. Visitors are usually surprised by the ornateness of the town’s main church, where inside are six chapels, gold-leaf altars, and “Quito School” works of art on display. Another point of attraction is the Athens Lookout Pont, from where you can see the stunning lakes of the Cotacachi Ecological Reserve, which is the largest conservation area in Ecuador’s northwestern Andes. With lush forests, nature reserves, snowy landscapes are the extra elements you will find in Cotacachi, in addition to the country finest leatherworks.

San Antonio de Ibarra

Marvelous shapes emerge from walnut wood thanks to the skillful hands of artisans of San Antonio de Ibarra, a village situated in the middle of Ecuador’s Andean highlands. Walking through the quiet streets of this town means discovering the many houses that are craft workshops, whose precious wood pieces have made this place famous. Worked with the techniques of the “Quito School” and covered with gold leaf, these unique works stand out for their rich earthly colors and beauty.

Small and large wooden sculptures, altarpieces, and motifs of all kinds are carved in cedar, orange tree, walnut and laurel. In the center of the village, works created by men, women and even children are sold in each house.

Zuleta

In Ecuador, many embroidered cloths with pre-Columbian designs have a seal that indicates their origin: The indigenous community of Zuleta, located to the southeast of the province of Imbabura. The tradition of skilled work using thread, thimbles and fabrics is old, but the craft found a space in the 1940s, in the hacienda of the Ecuadorian president Galo Plaza Lasso. The official’s wife created a workshop for women in the area where they could embroider and then market their beautiful garments, thus bringing in extra income for their households.

Dresses, blouses, tablecloths, rugs, towels, and other items, with fine finishes that reproduce details of the rural setting and the indigenous worldview are created by the skilled hands of more than 300 embroiderers. For the past 15 years, crafted garments have been displayed every other week on the premises of the hacienda at the Fair Zuleta Embroidery. Many public figures wear these highly original, embroidered attires, but what not many people know is that in a presidential visit to the Vatican, Pope Francis received two embroidered garments created by the skillful hands of Zuleta women.

Atuntaqui

This small colonial city whose Indian name means “big drum” and whose architecture and layout are the footprints of the Spaniards the past epoch. The village enjoys a mild climate and breathtaking scenery, as it’s located in the Andean foothills of the Imbabura Volcano. Its quiet pace of life has made many people choose it as a retirement destination.

On the ruins of an earthquake that destroyed the city in 1868 rose this village, today with a population of 21,000 inhabitants. In its reconstruction, a major role was played by the arrival of the railroad but also in the establishment of a textile factory.

Having now ceased operations, the first textile factory remains as a historic edifice that preserves antiquated English and German machinery within its walls. Declared an “Ecuadorian Cultural Heritage Site,” the building today houses the city’s Textile Museum. To visit here is to learn of the origins of an activity that remains one of the main industries for this population. In fact, every year in this small town a textile fair is organized that attracts almost 150,000 visitors. For those who come to experience this pleasant village, we can almost assure you that you’ll not want to leave without at least one of the beautiful garments on display in the windows of almost every store in Atuntaqui’s quaint downtown center.
Jaw-dropping Ecuadorian Archaeological Sites & Treasures

Jaw-dropping Ecuadorian Archaeological Sites & Treasures

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Tours of the vestiges of ancient civilizations — which left the imprints of their rites and ceremonies, as well as those of their members’ daily lives — allows us to understand the development and spirituality of early peoples.

In Latin America, the remains of such civilizations are found in various parts of the continent, usually framed in beautiful natural settings. Visiting them helps one to sense the splendor of some of these civilizations lost in time. Mexico, Colombia, Peru and Ecuador are among the countries that retain vestiges of pre-Columbian civilizations such as the Maya, the Inca and the Aztec. The Mayan city of Tikal, in Guatemala; the majestic ruins of Machu Picchu in Peru; and Chichen Itza, located in Yucatan, Mexico, and which are the ruins of the most important capital of the Mayan culture, are among the most representative sites on the continent.

Ecuador too retains the remains and foundations of important pre-Inca civilizations. We offer you a tour of the most famous and most visited by archaeologists and tourists alike.

Rumicucho (“Middle of the World” Park / Quito, Ecuador)

“Cornerstone” is the meaning of the Kichwa word “rumicucho.” Archaeological ruins of this same name are located just north of the city of Quito, offering us a clear view of a temple that was dedicated to the Sun God. From its privileged location, on a peak where you can see La Marca Hill and the Cayambe Volcano, these ruins form an east-west horizontal line at the precise location that the sun crosses during its equinox.

It is believed that Rumicucho was one of the most important temples for worshiping the “Star King.” Covering an area larger than 300 meters long and 75 meters wide, the ruins are made up of five pyramid-shaped stone terraces. During clashes between the native people and the Incas, this place served as a military and logistical support structure due to its strategic location. Today, like footprints, what remain are roads, bridges and temples; structures that — according to historians — were also used as an Inca military fort.

Rumicucho is a charming place with wonderful views where you can learn about these ancient peoples and their traditions while learning about the development and knowledge of ancestral cultures. What’s more, all of this is surrounded by a wonderful natural environment.

The Ingapirca Ruins (Cañar Province)

South of Ecuador, on a plateau in Cañar Province, are found the ruins that make up the Ingapirca Archaeological Complex.

Only 50 miles (80 km) from the beautiful and culture-rich city of Cuenca, these pre-Columbian ruins were built by members of the Cañar people to serve as a ceremonial and trade center.

What remains of Ingapirka (a word meaning “Inca wall”) may have been a sun and moon observatory, as well as a center for conducting religious rituals and carrying out military strategies, according to some scientific explanations. The building, which is of Inca-Canari origin, was built by direct order of the Inca leader Huayna Capac during wars of territorial expansion.

The environment around these majestic ruins consists of Curuquinga and Bueran highlands to the east and south, and a string of mountains to the west. It is said that the Canar civilization chose this land to build these temples as this site was on the route that ran between Ecuador and Peru. Large ceramic findings have helped to date these ruins to around 500 B.C. You can enjoy these places on a one-day visit, and then stay in the beautiful and culture-rich city of Cuenca, a UNESCO-declared “World Heritage Site.”

Agua Blanca Commune (Manabí Province)

Located about 9 miles (15 km) north of the coastal town of Puerto Lopez, in Ecuador’s Manabi Province, the Agua Blanca commune is an archaeological site embedded in a stunning natural setting.

Part of the Machalilla National Park, the commune has been transformed into a museum that reveals vestiges of the Machalilla civilization and the Manteña culture. The remains of temples, squares and houses of the Manteña culture (1500 BC), as well as funeral urns and pottery, especially from domestic and ceremonial use, can be seen in this museum. All of this gives visitors an idea of what the everyday life and culture of these ancient inhabitants must have been like.

Also found here is a lake that is high in sulfur, which is another attraction for those who visit the commune. These sulfur concentrations that flow from an underground volcanic formation into a natural lagoon are said to give these waters certain healing properties.

Pumapungo Complex (City of Cuenca)

Situate in the heart of the city of Cuenca, in its historic district in fact, you can find a ten-acre archaeological park that was built in the late 15th century. These are the ruins of what, according to some archaeologists and historians, was one of the most impressive cities of the Inca Empire. Found here are the “Temple of the Sun” and the “Temple of the Sun Virgins” as well as the “Tomebamba Temple.”

During work conducted over the last two decades, various ceramic materials, metal, shells and bones have been recovered, which can be seen in the site’s museum and evidence that ancient society’s developed and complex organization.

On these grounds was also founded the city of Tomebamba, which was destroyed before the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors. However, these colonialists later built their churches on top of the foundations of the preceding indigenous temples. It is said that this city was the birthplace of the son of the Inca leader Hayna Capac, and that this standing earned the site a sacred status. In the Pumapungo Archaeological Park, you can also see the entrance to a 30-meter tunnel that studies have determined served as a mausoleum and symbolized the spirit world. All of this was part of the complex and profound worldview of the people who inhabited what is now one of the country’s most important archaeological sites.

If you visit the Pumapungo Complex, you can stay in the beautiful city of Cuenca, built with features similar to those of its namesake city of Cuenca, Spain.
The “Camels” of the Andes | Surtrek South American Travel

The “Camels” of the Andes | Surtrek South American Travel

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When thinking about the Andes, most of us picture snow-capped mountains, vast green plains, indigenous peoples …and herds of llamas. And yes, these are some of the main characteristics of the mountainous South American region – including the llamas. In fact, American llamas and their close cousins inhabit the immense and frigid plains and slopes along the entire 4,000-mile mountain range. Possessing both beauty and elegance, with their thin necks and slender legs, they are placed in the same family as their more distant relative, the camel – from which they get the name “camelids.”

In South America, four species of these camelids exist, and here we’ll point out some of their features, similarities and differences.

Llamas: The Sacred Camels of the Incas

Among the Andean camelids, the llama is the largest. Their most striking feature is that they’re not a natural species, but a “creation” of human beings. Specifically, some 5,000 years ago, the people of the highlands began domesticating guanacos (see below), breeding them to constitute today’s llama. The animal’s geographical distribution is now wide, since it became a trade commodity during the Inca Empire. For the Incas, the llama was a sacred animal, believing that each llama on Earth had its “mirror” in the “Celestial Llama”: a constellation that could be seen from certain sacred places.

Today, llamas are found principally in the Andes of Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Ecuador, and Argentina, where they have traditionally been used as beasts of burden, though they are also still used for their wool and meat. As their wool is thick and strong, it’s highly valued – particularly because it doesn’t have to be chemically treated.

Alpaca: Sheep on Stilts

The alpaca is a smaller species, though, like the llama (and camels), it has the habit of spitting as a method of defense. Alpacas differ from llamas, though, in that they are not used as beasts of burden but were domesticated for thousands of years for their highly-valued wool – considered the finest among camelids. Alpaca wool is used to make products as diverse as blankets, ponchos, scarves, vests, and sweaters, while their meat is considered a delicacy by some peoples of Andes. These camelids stand at just around one-meter high and weigh between 50 and 55 kg. They are found mainly in Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina, although countries such as Australia, the USA, and New Zealand possess small numbers as breeders are making great efforts to increase their populations.

Guanaco: The Antelopes of the South

Elegant, possessing fine bones, and a fast runner (reaching up to 64 km per hour), the guanaco is also a threatened species of camelid, even scarcer than llamas. The animal is sociable, especially when young, though later they become more aloof in relation to humans while roaming in large herds in semi-desert areas. They have thick and soft coats that protect them from the cold, which is helpful in that they live mainly in Peru, Chile, Bolivia, and Argentina. Guanacos can weigh up to 140 kg and measure 1.70 m in height. Their coats are of three shades: beige on the upper body, white on their stomach areas and gray on their heads. Their wool and leather are used to make fine and highly valued garments.

Vicuña: The Babies of the Bunch

The vicuña, a patriotic symbol of Peru, is a smaller herbivorous camelid. Reaching a length of 80 cm and weighing between 40 and 50 kg. These sedentary animals have long legs and, in a sense, are ecological because the soles of their feet have a kind of pad that prevents them from digging up vegetation; in this way, they contribute less to erosion. They have a very structured and organized social system, with adult males living with a harem of two or three females and their young. The wool of the vicuña is some of the best of its type, since, in the world of haute couture, a square meter can cost up to $3,000. High fashion labels, especially Italian and French companies, use vicuña wool for the production of exclusive clothing; however, due to the intense hunting of these animals since ancient times, vicuna are now in danger of extinction. Like alpacas and llamas, they live mainly in Chile, Argentina, Bolivia, Peru, and Ecuador.

As for similarities, the four share some characteristics: for example, their ability to breed with each other and their sexual dimorphism (which means it’s not easy to distinguish their gender). Also, alpacas, llamas, and vicunas have another common feature: they live in highlands, while guanacos can live at sea level. Also, llamas and alpacas are domesticated species, while the sleeker vicuñas and guanacos are found only in the wild.

No matter how they vary, there is much to discover about these graceful animals. When traveling through the Andes, it’s worth seeing them up close and personal in the rugged landscapes in which they reign.
10 Surtrek Tips for an Awesome Galapagos Islands Vacation

10 Surtrek Tips for an Awesome Galapagos Islands Vacation

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One “bucket-list” dream for many people is a trip to the Galapagos Islands. But, because it isn’t cheap, this usually means that it’s a once in a lifetime experience for those who decide to travel there. Therefore, it’s to work with an experienced tour operator capable of planning every detail before the journey to ensure that everything runs smoothly. Based on Surtrek’s experience over the past 25 years of organizing travel to the “enchanted islands,” here’s are 10 tips that will help you enjoy your stay.

1. Planning your flight

If you plan to stay a few days in the islands, it’s advisable to land on Baltra Island, as it’s just across from Santa Cruz, which is the busiest and most central island. The distance from Santa Cruz to the other inhabited islands (San Cristobal, Isabela, and Floreana) is approximately four hours. However, if you land on easternmost San Cristobal Island and want to visit Isabela and/or Floreana islands, you will have to travel through Santa Cruz anyway, thus increasing your travel time.

Another good option is to land at the airport on San Cristobal Island and finally leave the islands from Baltra (or vice versa). The airlines that travel to the Galapagos Islands have traditionally had daily flights from Quito and Guayaquil. It takes about a half an hour to fly from Quito to Guayaquil, and about an hour and a half from there to the islands.

2. Dress for success: Types of clothes to pack

To travel to the Galapagos, you should note that airlines only allow one piece checked-in luggage of up to 20 kg (44 lbs.) and carry-on luggage of up to 8 kg. (17 lbs.). However, remember that while in the Galapagos, you’ll have to get around mainly on ships, which can be a big hassle if you’re lugging around a heavy suitcase. Therefore, you should try to take lightweight clothing on your trip. Comfortable shorts and shirts, and short sleeve garments are ideal for excursions and tours of the islands. It’s very important not to forget a hat and a pair of sunglasses, with sunscreen completing your protective gear. Remember, you will be on the equator and directly under the sun. On some cruises, you may want to bring clothes that are a little more formal — but also light and cool — for the afternoon or dinner time. But that is something that is strictly up to you, because there are no dress codes on the various ships.

Also, don’t forget that to get to the Galapagos Islands, you will have to go through Quito or Guayaquil. For the first city, you will need some warmer clothes, possibly a light jacket or a raincoat, which will also come in handy for the islands’ afternoon and evening winds.

Footwear and swimwear: “Teva-style” sandals with straps are recommended for various activities during your trip in the islands. This type of footwear is perfect for volcanic rock and land excursions, as well as for “wet landings,” etc. You can also wear tennis shoes if you want to switch up. You will also need one or two bathing suits (depending on the number of days of your trip). If you have your own snorkel gear and prefer to use it, that’s fine. But if not, you can always rent this in the islands if it is not supplied by your ship. You can also buy or rent gear in Quito.

Say “cheese”: Your camera and accessories: The Galapagos Islands are ideal for getting close to — and in some cases interact with — unique wildlife species that can only be seen here. With volcanic landscapes, the vastness of the crystal clear sea, and sunsets from the deck of his ship – everything will present unique opportunities for taking outstanding photos. So don’t forget to carry a camera (better if it’s has a wide-angle lens) and/or a video camera that you already know how to operate. Likewise, don’t forget the respective recharging cables.

3. An apple a day: Medicine to bring along

If you take any specific medication, you had better bring it with you because it is sometimes difficult to find special medications in the islands. Otherwise, all boats carry basic first aid supplies and equipment.

4. Documents you’ll need (A bureaucratic heads up)

If you are a foreigner, you should always carry your passport or at least a photocopy of it. Nationals of the countries of the Andean Community (Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia) are allowed to only carry their identity cards. To enter the islands you must acquire an immigration control card ($20) at the airport in Quito or Guayaquil. Please hang onto this card during your entire trip, as you will have to present it when you leave. Also, when entering the islands, you must pay the Galapagos National Park admissions fee in cash ($100 for adults, $50 for children under 12).

5. When to make your move

The Galapagos Islands are characterized by pleasant weather all year round. However, there are slight variations to be taken into account. For example, from June to December is a period known as the “dry season.” This condition reaches as far as the northern Galapagos Islands, driven by southerly winds of the cold Humboldt Current and its cool waters. Nonetheless, the afternoons are sunny during this period, though a layer of fog can be seen across the islands. Also during this time, mammals and land birds are very active, and visitors can observe the courtship rituals of many species.

6. Getting a good night’s sleep

The Galapagos Islands have a wide variety of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Most accommodations provide free breakfasts, which are usually varied. As the demand for accommodations in the inhabited islands is high, try looking ahead of time for a place to stay and be sure to reserve a room. You can also opt for a cruise, which is an excellent option for visiting several islands in a short time and also not having to worry about room reservations or meals – you can simply enjoy the islands.

7. Getting around between islands

When in the Galapagos, the best way to travel between the inhabited islands is by small boats (known as “fibras”), which head out every day. Most boats leave at dawn when the sea is calmer. When traveling on these boats, try taking a seasickness pill. Since the movement of the ocean can be strong, this can be physically upsetting if you’re not used to spending several hours at sea. If you want to avoid a long boat trip (it usually takes four hours to travel between islands), you can go by plane. The company that provides this service in the Galapagos Islands is EMETEBE. You also have the option of taking a cruise, which will even take you to those islands seldom visited by tourists.

8. Dinner time!

The islands have a host of restaurants, especially ones serving coastal cuisine and fast food. Most hotels have restaurants or dining rooms for guests. Also, you may find shops where you can buy a variety of food. Note that the food in the Galapagos Islands is a bit more expensive than on the mainland, but the prices don’t increase much. If you go on an organized excursion lasting several hours, you will be provided with a box lunch, which is usually a light and served cold. If you go on an excursion on your own, you should bring something light to eat – but don’ forget to also bring a small garbage bag.

9. The almighty dollar

The official currency of Ecuador is the U.S. dollar, although you can exchange other currencies in airports and on the islands. In any case, you should also bring some dollars with you in case you need to make some urgent purchase. Only San Cristobal and Santa Cruz islands have banks and ATMs. So, if you visit Floreana or Isabela, you’ll need to carry cash. While credit cards are accepted in most places, try to bring cash to avoid any inconveniences. Of this cash, carry denominations of no more than $20 bills, because larger banknotes are not accepted in some places.

10. Top-notch Guides

Most tours and excursions in the Galapagos cannot be undertaken without the company of a certified naturalist guide, which is especially important given that 97% of the land area of the archipelago is part of the Galapagos National Park. In fact, this is the institution that certifies guides and coordinates visits with operators. For each visit, there are marked trails that must be respected by visitors, but this doesn’t prevent tourists from witnessing many species of wildlife from close up, and in some cases even interacting with them.
The Best Times for Traveling to the Galapagos Islands

The Best Times for Traveling to the Galapagos Islands

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Set in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, and blessed by their temperate location right on the equator, the Galapagos Islands are beautiful all year round. So what’s the best time of year to visit these “enchanted islands”? Each month has its own pros and cons …it all depends on what you consider an ideal vacation.

Here we look at some of the factors that should keep in mind while deciding when you should visit the Galapagos Islands?

Peak vs. Non-peak tourist seasons

The peak seasons for Galapagos tourism tend to coincide with the general holiday and vacation months around the world. These run from the mid-December to January “Christmas vacation” and from the June to August “summer holidays” (for Europe and the USA). During these high-season periods, the availability of everything in the islands is stretched to the limit. Though the Galapagos National Park administration limits the number of tourists that can visit the islands at any given time, the high influx of travelers during peak season can make hotels and cruise docks especially cramped.

Likewise, Galapagos flights get particularly busy at these times, and, of course, the prices of cruises and accommodation are higher. During high seasons, it’s almost impossible to find a “last-minute deal,” and if by some miracle you do come across one, you’ll likely have to accept a boat that’s not your first choice. The low seasons in the Galapagos Islands are in springtime (May to June) and fall (September and October). During these periods, tourism in the Galapagos declines substantially and many cruises drop their prices to attract more passengers.

If you are planning your Galapagos getaway during the popular “vacation” months, we recommend that you book your trip at least six (6) months in advance of your desired travel date – or even sooner. Christmas cruises, for example, often book up more than a year in advance!

Alternatively, if you’re considering vacationing during the non-peak “shoulder” seasons, we advise you to keep a couple of factors in mind. The low tourist season is just that, so instead of enjoying the solitude of desolate beaches, you might just find yourself feeling a bit lonely and secluded. Hotel availability is usually not a problem during these times, though. Also, note that that the sea conditions are at their worst in late-August and September, which will increase your chances of getting seasick from the pitching and rolling of a cruise ship. In addition, because of those choppy waters, many cruise operators put their boats in dry dock for maintenance during this time. Therefore, you need to think twice before heading off to the islands in search of a “last-minute bargain” Galapagos cruise just because it’s low season.

Climate in the Galapagos Islands

Another factor that could influence your plans as to when to visit the Galapagos archipelago is the climate. Because the Galapagos are right on the equator, the air and water temperatures don’t vary much, though oceanic currents do influence the air and sea temperatures, sea conditions and rainfall across the islands.

Generally, the climate in the Galapagos Islands is divided into two seasons: the warm/rainy season (from January to May or June), and the cool/dryer season (from June or July to December). During the warm-wet season, temperatures reach up to 86°F (30°C), with sunny days interrupted by short but heavy cloudbursts. The sea is warm, 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C), and relatively calm. The warmer weather and calmer waters of the rainy season make this the best time to travel to the Galapagos if swimming and snorkeling are on your agenda. On the downside, though, there aren’t as many fish and seabirds to see as there are in the cooler parts of the year. The calm ocean waters of the January-June warm-wet season also reduce the chances of getting seasick on a cruise. But bear in mind that January to March is the doldrums on the equator, and there’s usually not enough wind for sailing yachts to truly set sail. In any case, all yachts can run by motor.

During the cool-dry June-through-November season, the Humboldt Current makes its way from the southern end of South America, bringing cold weather as well as nutrient- and plankton-rich waters that attract fish. It’s too chilly for casual snorkeling without a wet suit, but experienced divers claim that this is the best time for witnessing the wide variety of Galapagos underwater marine life … IF you’re willing to brave the cold water.

At around 72°F (22°C), the cool-dry season is more comfortable for trekking and exploring the volcanic origins of the Galapagos Islands, including its fascinating lava flows and other geological features.

Though the days are often grey and overcast, there’s usually not any rainfall down on the coast. In the highlands, though, the “garúa” fog sustains a constant dampness, which occasionally drops down to the coast.

Wildlife-watching opportunities

Wildlife is the main attraction for most visitors to the islands, and great wildlife viewing is guaranteed regardless of when you visit the archipelago. Almost all of the islands’ animal species spend the entire year in the Galapagos and do not migrate – including the tiny Galapagos penguin, the Giant Galapagos tortoise, the flightless cormorant, marine and land iguanas, the Red- and Blue-footed booby, the Galapagos hawk, the fur sea lion, and the California sea lion (one of the sole exceptions to this rule is the Waved albatross, which travel to the islands in the summer).

What do change during specific seasons are these animals’ behaviors (their mating, breeding, etc.). Therefore, you should take a look at a Galapagos wildlife activity calendar to get an idea of what you might see in each month. Similarly, there is some variation in the types of animals you’ll find on specific islands of the archipelago. If you are keen on seeing a particular animal or bird, talk with a Surtrek Galapagos travel coordinator to find the best cruise itinerary for this.

BON VOYAGE…!!
7 Top Luxury Yachts for Sailing the Galapagos Islands

7 Top Luxury Yachts for Sailing the Galapagos Islands

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It’s easy to see why the Galapagos Islands are on savviest travelers’ “bucket-lists.” With the archipelago being one of the world’s greatest natural wonders, nothing can prepare you for a visit to this exotic masterpiece of Mother Nature.

Some travelers prefer to experience this once-in-a-lifetime experience on a land-based “land-hopping” tour – eating, sleeping, and resting in a hotel on solid earth. Others will choose to explore the Galapagos Islands on a water-based cruise, where you will eat, sleep and rest on board a luxury yacht, a catamaran, a sailboat, or a larger cruise ship.

Still, no one comes to the Galapagos just to lie out on deck all day. Luxury cruises serving the Galapagos Islands offer daily land excursions that include hiking ancient lava fields where you will encounter prehistoric reptiles such as the iconic giant Galapagos tortoise, as well as endemic land and marine iguanas. On these landings, you can also witness the courtship dance of Blue-footed boobies, and observe a host of Galapagos penguins, Flightless cormorants and massive Waved albatross – just to name a few of the comical sea birds found here.

While marveling at the diversity of the land and marine life found in these paradisiacal islands, you can also enjoy the maximum in comfort, style, service, and safety on board a luxury ship. We have selected seven of these top-end “floating boutique hotels” that boast everything from Jacuzzis to private balconies, as well as spacious cabins and all the big-city amenities.

Silver Origin

The newest ship to take to the waters of the Galapagos archipelago, the Silver Galapagos will not fail to delight. It was designed for those looking for a larger luxury-class cruise ship with an excellent range of facilities and personal service.

The Silver Galapagos has the capacity for 132 passengers, making it one of the largest and most luxurious ships sailing the Galapagos. However, due to the National Park regulations, it only carries 100 passengers in its 50 spacious air-conditioned outside cabins — all with spectacular ocean views, their own private bathrooms, and small sitting areas.

The Silver Galapagos offers an impressive list of amenities and social areas, including a first-class restaurant and grill, a Jacuzzi, a spacious dining room, an electronic elevator, the Explorer Lounge, a piano bar, a fitness center, and massage room, a beauty salon, a boutique, a snorkel area, a library, and a large briefing/conference room. This briefing room is used by the vessel’s six (6) naturalist guides, who lead daily shore excursions and offer nightly presentations and briefings to fully prepare passengers for the islands to be visited the following day.

In addition, Silver Galapagos offers karaoke, star gazing, massage therapy, Spanish lessons, and even cocktail-making classes. Indeed, you’ll be spoiled by all the choices. And on top of all the pampering, this vessel also has power. Navigating the Galapagos Islands at a cruising speed that enables passengers to see more of the Galapagos archipelago in less time.

La Pinta

One of the most up-to-date vessels for luxury cruising in the Galapagos Islands, La Pinta has an excellent reputation for great service while offering a variety of activities for all levels of outdoor enthusiasts.

With a capacity for 48 guests, this 209-foot (63-meter) yacht provides superior accommodations. La Pinta has 20 comfortable double or twin-bedded staterooms, plus four (4) triple cabins (the third person must be under 12), all with ocean views, private bathrooms, personal safes, and individually controlled air-conditioning. Besides floor-to-ceiling windows in all staterooms, the yacht’s cabins are among the largest of any Galapagos cruising vessel. And in addition to La Pinta’s standard staterooms, the ship has four extra-large connecting suites, which are popular with family groups all year round.

Spacious public areas in the boat deck include a large observation lounge and bar that can be used for outdoor dining, a smaller outside “Sky Bar” towards the stern, fore and aft observation decks, an exercise room, a Jacuzzi, and a well-stocked natural history library-conference room.

Through panoramic windows, these social areas provide almost permanent visual contact with the islands, while the outside deck areas are also superb havens for relaxation, including an observation deck for dolphin, shark and whale watching.

On the main deck is a window-lined dining room with open seating (though there are no formal dress requirements), the reception area, a boutique, and a doctor’s office.

To get the most out of such enriching wildlife encounters, you will be accompanied by expert guides on La Pinta, which is complemented by the ship’s faultless service, delicious cuisine, and plenty of comfort on board. The ship’s crew and staff embrace a spirit of adventure, while ensuring comfort and safety at all times during your Galapagos Islands vacation.

Integrity

Taking a cruise on this luxurious 16-passenger Galapagos Islands cruiser is a bit like staying in a fabulous boutique hotel, but with ever-changing scenery and mesmerizing animals appearing just off the deck. The 141-foot luxury Integrity yacht was designed with painstaking attention to detail and has been spotlessly maintained. Indeed, it has earned the reputation as one of the finest ships sailing the Galapagos archipelago.

The Integrity Motor yacht is customized to carry 16 adventurers in comfort, safety and style – something it has been doing in the waters of the Galapagos Islands since April 2005.

With the most comfortable staterooms and suite of any “enchanted islands” vessel – big ship or small – your stay on board the Integrity will be one of sheer delight. The decor is tasteful and simple, featuring hardwood that its owner hand-harvested, milled and cured for this special yacht. Each stateroom is a double accommodation cabin with comfortable seating, lots of storage, and large picture windows (no tiny portholes!). Cabin temperatures are individually controlled, and you’ll have a mini-refrigerator stocked with water and snacks in your room. Bathroom facilities are en suite with a full-sized shower, lavatory, toilet, and storage cabinet.

The cozy lounge/salon is the perfect place for viewing your day’s Galapagos Islands photos on a wide-screen in this media center, as well as for reading or listening to the daily natural history briefing from the onboard naturalist.

In the large, well-equipped galley, the chef and his cooking team strive to satisfy. Menus are varied, carefully executed and very healthy. Breakfast is buffet style with cereals, juices, fresh fruit, toast, muffins, hot items, and eggs cooked to order. Freshly brewed coffee, a selection of teas, milk, and cocoa are also served. Lunch and dinner are served in several, elegantly plated courses and often start with a soup, followed by safe-to-eat-salads and the main course of fish, chicken, beef, or seafood. And there’s always dessert, coffee, and tea. Special diets are readily accommodated, and there are plenty of kid-friendly dishes.

As for the ship itself, the Integrity’s state-of-the-art stability and anti-vibration systems guarantee “smooth sailing” all the way. The interior design of the motor vessel is impeccable, while the social areas are spacious and the services are some of the best to be found.

Ocean Spray

The Galapagos Ocean Spray is described as a “mega” catamaran; and — since it’s equipped with large staterooms and a huge sundeck with a Jacuzzi — it’s not hard to see why! The unrivaled spaciousness of the vessel’s design, also seen in the cabins and all other guest areas, is complemented by the equally unmatched stability and speed that only catamarans can provide. Indeed, her speed, comfort, and stability make the Galapagos Ocean Spray a perfect choice for your Galapagos Islands cruise adventure.

Built in 2011, the ultra-modern 16-passenger yacht has three passenger decks with a total of nine (9) elegantly appointed and spacious double cabins, all with private facilities – including balconies. Each cabin boasts individual climate controls, private bathrooms and ample space for storing luggage. The Ocean Spray boasts some of the largest cabins on any small yacht in the Galapagos, with her double cabins measuring at least 284 square feet.

A top-notch menu of Ecuadorian and international cuisine, and pure style all make the Galapagos Ocean Spray a great cruise ship for your Galapagos trip. The Galapagos Ocean Spray catamaran is equipped with two bars, a spacious sun deck, a Jacuzzi, a comfortable lounge, and indoor and al fresco dining. This means that guests will find it difficult not to relax and enjoy the exclusive atmosphere of this luxury-class catamaran.

The crew is made up of 10 members plus a certified naturalist guide who each deliver the highest standards of quality service to guests in a friendly and professional manner.

The Ocean Spray boasts the most advanced navigation and safety equipment, which enhances guests’ comfort and security. She fully complies with the highest national and international safety standards and regulations for passenger vessels. Galapagos Ocean Spray is a luxury-class catamaran offering the best performance and comfort in cruising the Galapagos Islands. Ideal for small groups, families or couples.

Origin

The Origin motor vessel, named for Charles Darwin’s insightful work The Origin of the Species, made its appearance in the Galapagos Islands in early 2016 as the most environmentally efficient and comfortable 20-passenger yacht sailing in the waters of the archipelago.

The ship possesses 10 different deluxe double staterooms to choose from, two of which able to accommodate up to three people. Measuring approximately 140 square feet, each cabin is brimming with amenities, which include nightstands, an ample sectional closet, a sitting area, modern décor with local art work, fine linens and towels, climate controls, satellite TV/DVD, iPod docking station, a safe deposit box, and a private bathroom. Each bathroom includes hot water, full facilities, and features such as hair-dryers, slippers, and robes, as well as soap and shampoo that are both biodegradable. Your spacious cabin will be located on the main “Beagle” deck, with a panoramic window so you can wake up and fall asleep to the stunning views of the ocean and the archipelago. As an additional note, all cabins are cleaned twice daily and laundry service is available.

Throughout the yacht, you will find great extras such as a fitness room equipped with cardio machines, spacious social areas, satellite TV, and a spacious sun deck equipped with a fully stocked open wet-bar, BBQ, lounges, and hammocks. On top of all this, you can enjoy the available kayaks, paddleboards, wet suits, and snorkeling equipment for your own use when permitted. Masseuses are available on charters (only) for an additional charge.

In addition, the ship possesses semi-private nooks for you to escape to and relax on the boat, or you can mingle with other guests in one of the Origin’s three lounge areas, its library, computer station, or in the social area equipped with satellite TV.

The yacht runs two basic 8-day itineraries, a southern/central route, and a western/northern route. During these times, every need of the guests will be catered to cater to by the ship’s two expert naturalist guides, a concierge, a well-trained experienced crew, and a highly-qualified captain. The naturalist guides and captain are hand-picked to provide you with an educational experience and exceptional service while you tour each island.

The Origin combines modern sophistication and a high level of comfort and service, with indoor and al-fresco gourmet dining experiences (including Ecuadorian and Peruvian specialties), exciting physical activities, and a dose of intellectual science providing guests a life-enriching experience.

Petrel

One of the newest ships sailing the Galapagos Islands, the 16-passenger Petrel Luxury Galapagos Catamaran offers a luxury-class way to visit this magical archipelago.

This luxury cruise vessel is one of the best ways to see the Galapagos Islands.

Named after a sea bird common to the Galapagos, the “Petrel” is like its namesake: elegant, swift and silent at sea. Guests will travel in comfort to different islands where they can have up-close encounters with Blue-footed boobies, iguanas, giant tortoises, sea lions, and more.

A motorized catamaran, the Petrel is designed for comfort and stability and is outfitted with spacious cabins with private balconies, a comfortable lounge, and ample relaxation areas. The huge sundeck features the Jacuzzi, the perfect spot for dolphin- and whale-watching, or for simply unwinding and soaking up the sun between island excursions. In the evenings there is no better place for stargazing. Enjoy dining in the ship’s elegant restaurant, or dine al fresco on the deck while taking in the views over the islands. Order a drink at the bar in time for sunset.

On the Petrel, the emphasis is placed on the remarkable natural history of the Galapagos Islands, selecting naturalist land-tour guides who are knowledgeable about biology and ecology, in addition to having excellent language skills and client reviews.

Stella Maris

Touting itself as the “only luxury yacht based in the Galapagos Islands,” the M/Y Stella Maris has the facilities in place for serving the most demanding and discerning clientele. Accommodating up to 14 guests in ultimate of style, the ship is available for private charter groups, offering fully customized charters, complemented by complete pre-established 8-day cruise itineraries in which you and your party will thoroughly explore the Galapagos from end-to-end.

Her interior boasts a clean and inviting contemporary décor, the well-appointed panoramic windows allowing for natural light. Luxurious accommodations, the likes of which have never been seen in the Galapagos Islands, set the tone for the M/Y Stella Maris. This lavish motor yacht features a total of seven (7) suites: four (4) expansive suites on the aft/lower deck, two (2) suites on the front main deck, as well as one (1) master suite on the second aft deck, with the master suite featuring its own private access to an outdoor lounge. All suites are fully air-conditioned and offer private en-suite facilities. Note: Each of these spacious suites has its own private balcony.

On the main deck, the Stella Maris motor yacht features a beautiful central staircase that provides separation from the luxurious formal dining room and the ample living room with TV entertainment. These grand appointments and an attentive crew are important aspects contributing to the overall experience aboard the yacht; however, the savory cuisine available is its crowning jewel. The M/Y Stella Maris’ food and liquor service is available 24 hours a day, and the ship features a full stock of excellent quality wines and spirits. Among the crew some of the most qualified local chefs.

With whichever yacht you choose, it’s not uncommon for a Galapagos cruise vessel to be sold out six of nine months in advance – particularly for holiday periods like Christmas and New Year’s. This means that if you have a specific vacation date in mind, you and your Surtrek travel coordinator will have to book your trip well in advance to ensure the availability of your cruise ship.
Top Destinations for Vacationing in the Andes in 2021

Top Destinations for Vacationing in the Andes in 2021

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As we slowly return to normalcy, 2021 offers the possibility of again exploring the world around us. One of the sites worth discovering is the longest continental mountain range in the world: The Andean highlands, which stretch the length of South America’s western coast. Amazingly long (4,300 miles in length), and surprisingly thin (between 120 to 430 miles wide), the Andes is also the world’s highest mountain range outside of Asia …high enough to leave you breathless in more ways than one.

The Andes extend from north to south through seven South American countries: Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina. Within this region are of several high plateau, some of which host major cities that are ideal destinations for a 2021 summer vacation.

The following five Andean cities deserve special consideration for those seeking unforgettable Latin American travel experiences ahead.

Bogotá, Colombia

Today, as the Colombian Tourist Board’s slogan boasts, “The only risk in visiting Colombia is wanting to stay.” While this expression acknowledges the country’s turbulent past, it also highlights the new feeling of hope and optimism that defines travel experiences here.

This new spirit is no more apparent than in the nation’s vibrant and passionate capital city of Bogota. Home to 10 million people, Bogota’s energy as the metropolitan heart of Colombia is in part fueled by its hundreds of eclectic dining hot-spots, fantastic wines, and increasingly frequent “foodie” festivals. Whether you visit its historic Candelaria district or go on an indulgent shopping adventure on the city’s North Side, Bogota is well worth a visit.

Medellin, Colombia

This is another Colombian city deserving of serious consideration and a good look. Though infamous 30 years back for dangerous gangs and drug activity, Medellin has been transformed: It’s now a vibrant destination for travelers seeking a culturally rich vacation.

The city’s pleasant climate has earned it the nickname of the “City of Eternal Spring,” putting pep in the step of locals and visitors alike. Meanwhile, the city’s skyline seems to grasp for the heavens, as the clean lines of modern high-rise apartment contrast sharply against a backdrop of jagged mountain peaks. This bounce is especially apparent on weekends, when Medellin lets its hair down. This is when the city’s throngs of discos attract some of the most beautiful people in all of Latin America.

Quito, Ecuador

With a historic district considered the most beautiful city in all of South America, Quito is the jewel in Ecuador’s crown. Ensconced in a long and narrow Andean valley, while skirted by the peaks of the area’s “Avenue of the Volcanos,” most travelers sense of a wave of sheer awe the moment they touch down in the Ecuadorian capital city.

Because of its remarkable colonial architecture, the city was designated the planet’s first UNESCO World Heritage City in 1978 (ahead of cities like Bruges Belgium and Venice, Italy). Strolling through its narrow, cobblestone streets is like taking a journey back in time. Only a 20-minute walk from the history “old town” is Quito’s modern “new town.” A completely different world, here you will come upon trendy cafés, international restaurants, travel agencies, cybercafés, bars, and small hotels. For travelers, its heart is the colorful Mariscal Sucre district, which definitely lives up to its nickname of gringolandia (“gringo land”), though locals also flock here in droves on the weekend.

[As an aside, keep in mind that Quito also serves as a convenient jumping-off point for traveling to the nearby Amazon rainforest as well as for taking a short flight to the country’s legendary Galapagos Islands.]

Machu Picchu

Still the uncontested Mecca of Latin America, Machu Picchu reigns supreme. In a spectacular location, it’s the best-known archaeological site on the continent. This fabled “lost city of the Incas,” is South America’s greatest attraction, one that draws ever-increasing numbers of visitors from across the globe.

The attraction of Machu Picchu (which in the Quechua language means “old mountain”) is apparent: this 550-year old citadel was constructed by the most advanced pre-Columbian society. There is still no agreed-upon explanation as to how the Incas could have moved 20-ton stones to the top of the fortress … a mystery that adds to this uniquely spiritual and beautiful site.

Rising to 7,973 feet above sea level, Machu Picchu is high; so high in the clouds that this awe-inspiring ancient city was never revealed to the conquering Spaniards. Machu Picchu is also large. The ruins are the size of a small village, and —combined with the adjoining jungle and wilderness park — its area covers more than 116 square miles. Though the Incas carefully concealed Machu Picchu, it is no longer the “Lost City.” These days, you can reach it by high-speed train or a more labored two- to four-day trek. But no matter how you get there, though, Machu Picchu will remain unequaled in its mystery and magic.

Bolivia

“Nuestra Señora de La Paz,” commonly known as La Paz, is the Bolivian capital city that’s dizzying in every respect. Located in western Bolivia at an altitude of 3,650 meters (almost two miles above sea level), its height alone is enough to induce a touch of vertigo. At the same time, its striking beauty — with the city’s buildings clinging to the sides of a canyon and spilling spectacularly downwards — is likely to leave you woozy. Overlooking all of this is the towering triple-peaked Illimani Mountain, always snow-covered and visible from many parts of the city on clear days.

Bolivia’s harsh mountain landscapes and thick Amazonian jungles impeded Spanish conquest and large-scale European immigration, which has meant that La Paz has suffered few changes. You can see this in the way indigenous peoples of the city have managed to retain many of their traditions, while villages around the capital have remained virtually untouched for centuries. The result is that many people consider La Paz the most quintessentially South American capital city. You can absorb all of this by wander at your leisure through the alleyway and lively markets, marvel at the city’s fascinating museums, chat with the locals while having lunch in a comedor, or relax over some freshly brewed coffee in a neighborhood café.

(In addition to this colorful capital city, the jaw-dropping Uyuni salt flat is just a few short hours away)

In sum, on a summer vacation to this region, you’ll find snowcapped Andes Mountains towering above you as they seem to glow in the moonlight. The Andes of Colombia, Ecuador, Bolivia or Peru are well suited for everything from active travel adventures to indulgent shopping and dining in its big cities. The Andes are also perfect for more relaxed activities like city exploring, hikes, and archeological digs. All of this earns this region definite consideration when planning your 2021 summer vacation.
10 Reasons to Visit the Galapagos Islands | Surtrek Travel

10 Reasons to Visit the Galapagos Islands | Surtrek Travel

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As the Galapagos Islands is the ideal place for an unforgettable vacation, this archipelago is one of the most relished destinations for many travelers worldwide. Here we present our top-10 list of reasons to enjoy these “enchanted islands,” so that you might select them as your own vacation destination in 2021.

1. Still-Pristine Islands

The Galapagos Islands are one of the most valued and important national parks in the world. (Not everyone knows this, but the archipelago is part of Ecuador, a country located in South America and on the equator. Located at 600 miles (1,000 km.) from mainland Ecuador, the Galapagos are composed of 13 islands and more than 100 islets and minor volcanic islands).

Despite being a tourist destination, the isolation of the islands has allowed them to retain their pristine state. When walking along its trails and beaches, including in the inhabited islands, you feel like you’re in a newborn world where the power and generosity of nature are manifest at every turn. This is because only 3% of the archipelago is inhabited, while 97% of the area belongs to the Galapagos National Park.

Adding to this is the fact that the archipelago is home to endemic wildlife such as iguanas, Giant tortoises, Galapagos penguins, and a variety of species of finches.

2. A Living Laboratory of Natural Wonders

The Galapagos Islands are considered a natural laboratory for several reasons. One is that — being comprised of volcanic islands of differing ages — they clearly show examples of various stages of the earth’s geological formation. Similarly, varying types of endemic flora thrive on the different islands, including plants that grow in the middle of lava fields.

However, it’s the diverse and unique wildlife of the archipelago that is the star attraction to the islands. As the animals there have adapted to different climatic environments, in the islands you can find iguanas that have become accustomed to desert climates, sea lions that frolic on the beaches, tropical fish, all kinds of birds, giant tortoises, and more. One of the most representative species is the finch, a bird that allowed Darwin to observe the adaptation strategies of this species and then develop his theory of evolution.

One advantage is that the Galapagos Islands offer visitors the opportunity to observe from up close how life on the planet has evolved. As each island has its own particular species, the Galapagos archipelago is the best place for scientists wanting to learn more about evolution and nature. The Charles Darwin Foundation, along with the Galapagos National Park and other foundations, carry out scientific activities on the islands, always under the banner of conserving nature there.

3. Endemic Birdwatching

Ecuador is a paradise for bird lovers While Ecuador covers only 1.5% of South America, it is home to more than 50% of all species inhabiting the continent. Moreover, 18% of the nearly 9,700 species of birds known in the world live in this tiny country.

In the archipelago can be found 24 endemic species that can be observed from almost an arm’s length, and when armed with a pair of binoculars, tourists can observe precious species that can’t be seen anywhere else in the world. Magnificent frigates, Blue-footed boobies, pelicans, and even penguins can be seen in the islands. Living there are more than 10 species of Galapagos finches, in addition to Flightless cormorants, albatrosses, herons, three species of boobies, terns, and more.

When touring the Galapagos Islands, you need to also look up at the trees, cactuses, and the sky, because up above you’ll certainly spot birds that you’ve never seen before.

Note: The best islands for bird watching are Espanola and Genovesa (with this latter one known as La Isla de los Pajaros, or “Bird Island”).

4. An amazing Marine Reserve

The Galapagos Islands possesses the world’s second-largest marine reserve and the first in a developing country. The Galapagos Marine Reserve, created in 1988, is a protected area located 600 miles (1,000 kilometers) from mainland Ecuador, and 40 nautical miles from the baseline of the outermost islands.

The reserve covers 51,000 square miles (133,000 sq. km.), of which about 27,000 sq. miles (70,000 sq. km.) are inland waters of the archipelago. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is one of the richest and most diverse ecosystems in the world.

By going to the Galapagos Marine Reserve, it will make you feel like you are in a huge aquarium where life unfolds in special colors and at its own pace. Diving with benign sharks, whales, manta rays, turtles, sea lions and thousands of tropical fish of various sizes and colors is an experience that will leave you speechless.

5. Unique landscapes

On the thirteen principal islands of the Ecuadorian archipelago, declared a Natural Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1978, one can find all types of unique species coexisting within stunning natural landscapes crowned by erupting volcanoes.

Imagine walking through lava tunnels formed just below the surface of the islands or under the sea. Similarly, try to picture yourself swimming in the turquoise water of caverns in which the sunlight forms mysteriously colored shapes beneath the water. Think of standing on the rim of one of the world’s largest craters or trying to figure how far away one of the closer islands really is. Here, you can marvel at the contrasts of red beaches, turquoise sea, lush green landscapes, and rich brown cliffs. Or, you can observe amazing (seemingly impossible) rock formations jutting out of the middle of the ocean. Witness the coexistence of different species in a unique environment and end your day enjoying inspiring sunsets on a sandy beach. This is a small sample of a few of the sights that will surprise you during every moment of a trip to the Galapagos Islands.

6. Incomparable Beaches

Each beach in the Galapagos Islands is amazing. On these long stretches of white sand, you’ll find everything from comically shuffling sea lions to prehistoric iguanas that are more than content to simply bask in the sun. Many beaches are oases in which you can submerge in their water as if in a giant outdoor swimming pool. In addition, while walking through these spots you’ll feel the immense power of the sea and its relaxing breezes.

Some of the beaches you just can’t miss are found in the following locations:

  • Tortuga Bay: Located in the archipelago’s southwestern of the town of Puerto Ayora, on Santa Cruz Island, you’ll discover a beautiful white-sand beach that is home to sea turtles, iguanas, pelicans, seagulls, and flamingos. Getting here is an hour’s walk from Puerto Ayora following a well-signed road that is easy to travel. For many people, this is the most beautiful Galapagos beach – one that’s perfect for swimming, surfing, and watching the sun set.
  • Gardner Bay: The beach here is known for its population of playful sea lions calmly stretching out in the sand to sunbathe. This is a great place for snorkeling and an ideal locale for admiring dive-bombing pelicans, brilliantly colored tropical fish, and sleepy Galapagos reef sharks.
  • Conway Bay: Located on Santa Cruz Island, on this bay’s Bachas Beach one can also observe colonies of sea lions as well as groups of land iguanas from close up. Though not very well known, this beach is located on the northeastern coast of Santa Cruz Island. Meaning “barge,” this beach is another good place for spotting migratory birds, sea turtles, and flamingos. Its crystal clear waters invite you in for a dip and some sunbathing.

7. Lush Island Highlands

The beaches of the Galapagos Islands are not the only magical spectacles. The highland areas of each island have their own magic. In these zones, you can find the volcanic craters of the islands, many located in volcanic depressions. On Isabela Island, for example, you walk up and peer inside the crater of the Sierra Negra Volcano, the world’s second-largest shield crater. You’ll also notice lakes like El Junco, in San Cristobal, and solidified lava tunnels in Santa Cruz. From the highlands, it’s even possible to see the nearby islands across the straits.

These are a few of the highlands that you can’t afford to miss:

  • The Highlands of San Cristobal Island: On San Cristobal Island — the location of the provincial capital of the Galapagos Islands, the town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno — in the highlands you will find Lake El Junco at an altitude of 700 meters above sea level. The archipelago’s largest freshwater lake, it has a depth of six meters and a diameter of 300 meters. Located in the mountains on the south of the island, Lake El Junco is surrounded by ferns, making it great for a scenic stroll. On a clear day, the view of the lake is nothing less than spectacular. Here one can see Darwin’s finches, gulls, and boobies. Before reaching the lake, you can stop at the Galapaguera Tortoise Breeding Center, where you can come to appreciate the growth process of the famous Galapagos giant tortoises.
  • Santa Cruz Island: The highlands of Santa Cruz Island offer are a host of fascinating sights. For example, you can visit Los Gemelos (“The Twins”), two mountainous depressions surrounded by abundant scalesia-tree vegetation. Undoubtedly you’ll sight some Short-eared owls and Darwin’s finches. And near the towns of Santa Rosa and Bellavista, you will come upon solidified lava tunnels. Plus, nearby is the El Chato reserve, where you can see humongous Galapagos tortoises in their natural habitat. The highest point of the island is the Croker or Puntudo Hill, rising a half-mile (860 meters) above sea level. This is where you’ll come across several species of birds and miconia forests. On a clear day in the of Santa Cruz highlands, you can even see some of the nearby islands.
  • The Highlands of Isabela Island: The largest island in the archipelago, Isabela Island has a grand total of six volcanoes. Its Sierra Negra Volcano is the highest but most accessible. From there, the more adventurous can trek for an hour to the Chico Volcano and be astounded by the petrified lava cones along the way. Inside the volcanoes themselves are their own worlds of lush vegetation and varieties of birds. Note that access is restricted to the other volcanoes on the island.

8. Year-round pleasant climate

Galapagos has great weather year-round, so these islands can be visited at any time. From December to May is the warmest season; this is when the sky is clear and the sun beams down the strongest. But, if you’re looking to scuba dive in some amazing places, the best time to visit the Galapagos Islands is between June and November. The weather might be a bit cool during these months, but this is when you can enjoy the best of the islands’ famous marine reserve.

The two seasons in the Galapagos Islands clearly mark the beginning and end of the reproduction of many species. There is a transition period between the hot season and the dry season (April to June), followed by a transition period between the dry and hot season (November to January).

These are six months of the year in which the climate of the Galapagos Islands is conducive to a mixture of natural events that occur at the same time. Some of the happenings that you can witness in these transitional seasons are:

  • Marine iguanas beginning their nest building
  • Blue-footed boobies commencing their “wedding parties”
  • Northern whales starting to migrate south
  • Sea lions marking off their territory
  • Magnificent frigates inflating their brilliantly colored throat pouches for courting
  • Currents of warm waters circulate in, ideal for snorkeling
  • Albatrosses return to the Espanola Island
  • Southern migratory birds leave for the north

But during all seasons of the year, it’s possible to tour the islands and enjoy their unique natural events.

9. Laid-back Surfing

Its well-formed waves and pleasant year-round temperatures make the Galapagos one of the best destinations for surfing. San Cristobal Island is perfect for this sport, with its Tongo Reef and Carola Point, though other islands such as Santa Cruz and Isabela aren’t far behind.

10. World-class Diving

Because of the great diversity of marine life and underwater geological formations that can be found in the marine reserve, scuba diving is one of the principal activities in the Galapagos Islands. There are even several cruise ships exclusively for diving, and on these one can go diving four to five times daily in different parts of the archipelago to discover all its richness. Likewise, for those people who want to learn to dive, courses are available on the inhabited islands.
Ecuadorian Cloud-Forest Lodges Offered by Surtrek

Ecuadorian Cloud-Forest Lodges Offered by Surtrek

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This week we’re taking a look at lodges situated in and around the Ecuadorian cloud forest town of Mindo. A little over an hour from Quito, the Mindo cloud forest is filled with amazing plant and animal life – perfect for a day or even a week-long trip from the capital city. For the ornithologists in the bunch, Mindo, its surrounding cloud forest, and the local lodges make for a birdwatcher’s paradise!

1. Mashpi Lodge

Dubbed “The world’s most luxurious new jungle retreat” by Forbes Magazine, Mashpi Lodge ( just 2-1/2 hours from Quito) meets all the 5-star expectations for those traveling for comfort as well as intimate contact with nature. Situated deep in a cloud forest, yet with amenities on par with a high-end city hotel, you’ll awake with nature within arm’s reach of your floor-to-ceiling windows.

2. The Birdwatcher’s House

The Birdwatcher’s House was designed as a place to relax and enjoy the surrounding aromas of flowers as well as the sounds of birds. It’s located a few miles from the “adventure town” of Mindo, with easy access to all of the area’s birding sites. Specially designed for birders and photographers, this cloud forest inn features great views, incredible biodiversity, and 10 comfortable rooms.

3. Arasha Resort & Spa

According to several prestigious international tourism organizations, the Arasha Resort & Spa is “The finest resort in Ecuador;” and this may be for good reason, seeing how Arasha has been consecutively awarded at the London “World Travel Awards” (The “Oscar” of the travel industry). From close to a decade, Arasha was the winner in two categories, namely “Leading Resort in Ecuador” and “Leading SPA Resort in Ecuador.

4. Bellavista Lodge

Less than 1 hour and 45 minutes from the heart of Quito, or 1 hour from the “Mitad Del Mundo” equatorial monument, the Bellavista Lodge is on a private 1,700-acre (700-hectare) reserve near the famed adventure-town of Mindo. With 15 rooms with hot showers and comfortable beds in different cabins, the lodge offers an excellent network of trails and four area waterfalls.

5. Sachatamia Lodge

Sachatamia Lodge is located in a privately owned ecological reserve just over an hour and a half from Quito. Nestled in the cool cloud forest near the outdoor-adventure town of Mindo. This comfortable lodge offers a wonderful insight into the life of Mindo’s hummingbirds and is a great base for exploring the surrounding cloud forest.

6. Cabañas San Isidro

A place renowned for its bird diversity and great nature photo ops, the Cabañas San Isidro is located in the Mindo cloud forest on its own 1,900-hectare reserve. Consisting of cabins with 11 comfortable double rooms and 2 single rooms, each cabana has hot water and a small living room.
5 Must-See Day-Tour Sites & Attractions in Quito, Ecuador

5 Must-See Day-Tour Sites & Attractions in Quito, Ecuador

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Quito, the capital of Ecuador, has one of the largest historic districts in Latin America. Discover its narrow stone streets, colonial homes stretching a block and a half, houses from the Republican era, steep stairs in unexpected places, beautiful Catholic churches, and squares with birds everywhere.

Quito’s historic district has an area of 926 acres (375.2 hectares) and is home to 130 buildings that are considered monuments. In many of these — which include museums, churches, monasteries and convents — there exist diverse examples of sculptural and pictorial art, especially religious works. In 1978, UNESCO declared Ecuador’s capital a “World Heritage Site,” based on the fact that Quito’s historic district is the best-preserved in all of the Americas.

Below, we have created a list of five of the most interesting places to visit on a day-tour in Quito. These are the “must-see” attractions in this most historic area of the city:

1. Basilica del Voto Nacional:

This neo-Gothic structure is the largest in Ecuador and one of the largest in Latin America. Located just within the bounds of the historic district, it reaches a height of 115 meters, while within it are 24 chapels representing the number of provinces in Ecuador.

For its majesty and style, this Catholic church — which is in the shape of a Gothic cross — has been compared with other large cathedrals in the world, including the Basilica of Notre Dame (Paris) and Saint Patrick’s Cathedral (New York). Although the decree for its construction was signed in 1883, the building’s first stone was laid in 1892 by Emilio Tarlier, a French architect. The church was built in large thanks to contributions from Ecuadorians (mostly from Quito). One feature of this towering cathedral is that its famous gargoyles on the facade and exterior do not have classical motifs. Instead, these have been replaced by amphibians and reptiles of Ecuador, specifically animals from the Galapagos Islands. Visitors on a day tour in Quito can ascend to the building’s cafeteria/observation deck to appreciate striking views of the city and Andean mountains beyond.

  • Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
  • Admission: $1 (Ecuadorian citizens), $2 (foreigners)
  • Address: Santa Prisca neighborhood, between the Carchi N122and Venezuela streets

2. Catedral Metropolitana de Quito:

Located near Quito’s main square (“Plaza de la Independencia”), in the city’s historic district, the Metropolitan Cathedral was built of stone using the communal “minga labor system” for hauling and carving of the masonry. It stands as yet another must-see attraction on a day-tour of the Ecuadorian capital city.

The building’s construction began in 1560 on land that currently borders the Carondelet Palace (seat of Government) to the west, and the Municipal Palace to the east. An eruption of the Pichincha Volcano forced the rebuilding of the temple in 1660. Then, after two separate earthquakes in 1755 and 1868, additional work was required.

The Cathedral has a longitudinal arrangement that consists of three naves supported on stone arches. Several chapels are located in its right side nave, while the central nave has a coffered ceiling paneled in cedar. Behind the main chapel is a smaller nave. Experts consider its style of construction to be Gothic-Mudejar style, especially in the form of its arches, pillars, and carved ceilings. This Catholic church is the seat of the Archdiocese of Quito and occupies all of the south side of Quito’s Independence Square.

  • Hours: Monday through Saturday, from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
  • Address: Venezuela and Espejo streets
  • Cost: $1. 50 (adults), $1 (children and elderly)

3. Church of the Compania of Jesus

Built and embellished over a span of 160 years (1605-1765) by artists of the “Quito School,” this church is one of the most important representatives of Latin American baroque architecture. Its arches, altarpieces, sculptures, altar, and even its picture frames are all covered in gold leaf.

Some people consider it the best Jesuit church in the world. Its facade is completely carved in gray volcanic stone and draws the attention of visitors not only for its beauty but by the combination of styles and expressions of syncretism that combines European and indigenous features.

The construction of this temple took 160 years. The church is now visited by about 120,000 people each year. One of the biggest attractions is the picture of hell, attributed to Hernando de la Cruz. The work, supposedly based on The Divine Comedy by Dante Alighieri plays with violent scenes and intense reds, assumptions punishment and the torment of sinners.

  • Hours: Monday through Friday, from 9:30 to 17:30. Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
  • Phone: 2584175
  • Email: ficj-turismo@fundacioniglesiadelacompania.org.ec
  • Address: García Moreno and Sucre
  • Cost: Adult abroad: $4. International Student: $2. National Adult: $2. National students (6-18 years): 0.60. Children and seniors: free.

4. Church of San Francisco

No day tour in Quito is complete without visiting this site, one of the largest religious complexes in Latin America. Its size is 3, 5 hectares, including the church, the Museum of Religious Art Pedro Gocial, the Franciscan convent and the large square, one of the most popular and iconic spaces from downtown.

The temple of San Francisco was built between 1536 and 1605. It’s another sample of the Quito Art School, which combines inside the Mudejar, Mannerist and Baroque styles. Its main altar, side chapels and the pulpit, of great beauty, to attract tourists. Just at the altar, the image of the Virgin of Quito, authored by Bernardo de Legarda, one of the representatives of the call is displayed Quito School.

On one side of the church is located Cantuña Chapel, which houses a legend known to all Quito. According to this story, which is transmitted from generation to generation, an Indian named Cantuña promised to build the court within a certain period. But, seeing that it was very short and was not going to make it, sold his soul to the devil in exchange for the latter and his assistants finish the work on time. However, the Indian could save his soul because the devil and his assistants were lacking placed the last stone…

Another attraction of the churches is the procession that takes place every Good Friday in the city; it is one of the largest religious public displays of the country.

  • Hours: Monday through Friday from 9:00 to 18:00
  • Address: Cuenca 477 and Sucre
  • Cost of revenue: $2.

5. Palacio de Carondelet

It is the seat of the national government and is located on the western side of the Plaza de la Independencia, also known as Plaza Grande, surrounded by the Archbishop’s Palace, the City, and the Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito. In colonial times, it was known as the Royal Palace in Quito, as the home of the Royal Court. According to tradition, was the liberator, Simon Bolívar, who named the building as Palacio de Carondelet.

In the staircase leading to the first floor, a painted mural by Oswaldo Guayasamín, which recreates the discovery of the Amazon River in 1542 is displayed. The first body of the building is built in stone. In the second, there is a gallery that faces the Plaza de la Independencia. Today, the President, Vice President and Ministry of Government Complex occupy Carondelet. The Government House has been open to the public since August 2007. Entry is free, with only the presentation of identification required. On your day tour in Quito, you can visit this site at the location and time below:

  • Hours: Tuesday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and Mondays from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
  • Saturday hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., and Sundays from 9:00 a.m. to 4: 00 p.m.
  • Address: N10-43 Garcia Moreno between Chile and Espejo streets
  • Admission: Free

To discover exciting experiences like these while on a day tour in Quito, we suggest that you select a knowledgeable tour operator (Surtrek, of course) who can work with you to custom design such adventures. Expert travel coordinators will help you to plan and seamlessly carry out a tour that introduces you to the real – authentic – Ecuador, in a sustainable manner that leaves the most minimal impact on this nature-rich land.”