Trip Leader: Dr. Jones
Dates: February 28, 2020 to March 7, 2020
Cost: $4,100 per student
Deposit: $1,000
Maximum Number of Students: 24
Trip Description and Purpose:
The Galápagos are most famous for the profound discoveries of Charles Darwin. Carry on that scientific tradition as you learn about the unique species that call the islands home. The Galápagos are a common destination to see whales, dolphins, sharks, rays, sea lions, marine iguanas, finches, Galapagos penguins and flightless cormorants. We will hike, boat, and swim one of the world’s greatest natural reserves.
The Galápagos are home to a fragile ecosystem facing serious challenges. Students will have an extraordinary opportunity to explore the Galápagos, survey the ecosystem and analyze sustainability issues caused by an increasing human population and the high demands of tourism. Students will expand their global perspectives by following in Darwin’s footsteps. This is truly a life transforming trip!
DAY 1: Travel to Ecuador
DAY 2: Quito
- Explore Quito
- Independence Plaza
- Government Palace
- Santo Domingo Monastery
- Equatorial Line
- Intiñan Museum
DAY 3: Quito→ Baltra Island→ Santa Cruz Island
- Fly to Baltra Island
- Twin Craters
- Lava Tunnels
- Santa Cruz highlands (wild tortoises!)
- Charles Darwin Research Station
DAY 4: Santa Cruz Island→ Isabela Island
- Boat to Isabela Island
- Pink flamingo habitat
- Tortoise breeding center
- Boat excursion to the Tintoreras Lava Islet
- Snorkeling
DAY 5: Isabela Island→ Santa Cruz Island
- Boat to Santa Cruz Island
- Swimming at Las Grietas canyon
- Playa de los Alemanes Beach
DAY 6: Santa Cruz Island→ San Cristóbal Island
- Boat to San Cristóbal Island
- San Cristóbal Interpretation Center
- Hike Tijeretas Hill
- Snorkeling at La Loberia Beach
DAY 7: San Cristóbal Island→ Quito
- Explore San Cristóbal Island
- Fly to Quito
DAY 8: Quito→ Otavalo→ Travel Home
- Explore Otavalo
- Visit a waterfall in Cotacachi
DAY 9: HOME
