per person based on double occupancy
Nestled in the Pacific Ocean—at the confluence of three ocean currents—the Galapagos Islands are a haven for explorers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a profound connection with the natural world. Join us on a transformative expedition voyage through these enchanting islands to celebrate life's diversity and to witness firsthand the stunning display of nature's endless wonders.
– Visit must-see highlights of Quito during a full-day guided city tour including Old Town Quito, the colorful San Francisco Market, La Compañía de Jesús (the "Golden Church") and Casa del Alabado Archaeological Museum.
– Experience unparalleled opportunities for immersive, up-close encounters with a myriad of wildlife. Walk among curious creatures on shore, snorkel beside sea lions and turtles in the clear waters of the world's second largest marine reserve, and witness genuine interactions between species in the wild.
– Benefit from knowledgeable naturalist guides who will provide insight on the origins of the unique flora and fauna endemic to the Galapagos Islands.
– Choose from a variety of water activities, as Isabela II is well-equipped with snorkel gear and ocean kayaks. Guides will also lead numerous outings by panga and glass-bottom boat.
– Enjoy exclusive access to many island locations. Isabela II has sailing privileges other vessels do not, so no other boats will be in sight during many moorings and shore landings.
– Visit historic sites, including the Charles Darwin Research Station—the iconic site of Galapagos National Park research and conservation efforts—most notable for its captive breeding program for the Galapagos giant tortoise; and Sullivan Bay on Santiago Island, one of the first sites visited by Charles Darwin.
WESTERN ITINERARY
Day 1: En Route from U.S. | Arrive in Quito, Ecuador
Day 2: Quito
Day 3: Quito | Flight to Baltra | Santa Cruz: Highlands | Puerto Ayora – Embarkation
Day 4: Bartolomé | Santiago: Sullivan Bay
Day 5: Santa Cruz: Dragon Hill | Santiago: Buccaneer Cove
Day 6: Isabela: Punta Vicente Roca | Fernandina: Punta Espinoza
Day 7: Baltra – Disembarkation | Flight to Quito, Ecuador
Day 8: Quito | Depart for U.S.
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, R = Reception
WESTERN ITINERARY
Day 1: En Route from U.S. | Arrive in Quito, Ecuador
Tuesday, May 20, 2025
After an evening arrival in Quito transfer to your five-star boutique hotel—the only Relais & Châteaux property in Quito—for a restful night's sleep.
Day 2: Quito
Wednesday, May 21, 2025 (B,L,R)
The journey begins with a full-day guided tour of Quito, a city steeped in rich history. Explore the captivating streets of historic Old Town where colonial architecture imparts the tales of centuries past. A local expert will escort you through a lively neighborhood for an opportunity to visit with local artisans, shopkeepers and confectioners.
Delight your senses in the vibrant San Francisco Market full of colorful local fruits and vegetables and culinary traditions. Stop by a chocolatier to learn how cacao beans are processed followed by a tasting of Ecuador's finest chocolates.
Stroll to La Compañía de Jesús for an inside tour. Built by the Jesuits in the 17th century, the church's intricate façade, lavish interiors, elaborate wood carvings and ornate, gilded decorative elements make it a true architectural gem.
After a special lunch featuring local ingredients visit the Casa del Alabado Archaeological Museum, located inside a restored 17th-century colonial mansion, to view its collection of pre-Columbian art.
This evening become acquainted with fellow travelers during a welcome reception and orientation.
Day 3: Quito | Flight to Baltra | Santa Cruz: Highlands | Puerto Ayora – Embarkation
Thursday, May 22, 2025 (B,L,D)
After breakfast at the hotel transfer to Quito's Mariscal Sucre International Airport for the approximate two-hour flight to Baltra Airport. Upon arrival transfer to the Baltra Ferry Terminal to ferry to Santa Cruz Island.
A short, scenic drive across Santa Cruz brings you to the Highlands for lunch. Afterward visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and the Giant Tortoise Breeding Center where you'll encounter the magnificent and iconic Galapagos giant tortoise, a species for which the Galapagos Islands are named. Walking among these enormous creatures is a profound and humbling experience. Gain an understanding of the comprehensive conservation efforts of maintaining and improving the environment and biodiversity in this remarkable archipelago. Also learn about the various stages of tortoise care and development, including a visit to the baby tortoise breeding area.
Visit Puerto Ayora's main street before arriving to the port where your expedition vessel, Isabela II, awaits. During embarkation take time to unpack and become familiar with your stateroom and the ship's welcoming public spaces.
This evening before dinner join fellow travelers, the captain and spirited expedition staff for a cocktail and to learn details of the activities ahead.
Day 4: Bartolomé | Santiago: Sullivan Bay
Friday, May 23, 2025 (B,L,D)
Our island-hopping adventure takes us to Bartolomé and its spectacular beach. If desired, climb the wooden staircase (less than a half-mile distance) to reach the summit for expansive panoramic views of the Galapagos. Back at the beach see herons and Galapagos hawks and enjoy time to snorkel in the calm waters.
Set out on a panga boat for a cruise around Pinnacle Rock, formed of limestone created by the accumulation of small volcanic elements. This active spot is home to playful Galapagos penguins that share the area with sea lions and colorful fish.
After lunch explore Sullivan Bay, renowned for its otherworldly volcanic landscape. Walk through paths of extensive lava flows and photograph the unique geological formations covering the barren terrain.
Returning to the ship embrace valuable leisure time to rejuvenate between adventures. Relax on the spacious sun deck while admiring the panoramic landscape, take a dip in the hot tub or re-energize with a workout in the fitness room.
You'll anticipate on-board meals with excitement, as each is prepared by the ship's Le Cordon Bleu-trained gastronomic director and created with top-quality organic ingredients.
Day 5: Santa Cruz: Dragon Hill | Santiago: Buccaneer Cove
Saturday, May 24, 2025 (B,L,D)
Arriving back to Santa Cruz at the northwest tip walk the trail to Dragon Hill. Along the way see the endemic land iguana (which resemble small dragons) and other reptiles, plus mockingbirds, Darwin's finches and yellow warblers.
Dragon Hill offers a beautiful view of the bay and the western islands of the archipelago. Enjoy leisure time to stroll the shoreline or snorkel with hopes of spotting rays and green turtles.
Cruise the coastline beside the impressive cliffs of Buccaneer Cove and hear about the pirates, privateers and whalers who set anchor here during the 17th and 18th centuries. It's home to a large number of marine birds, sea lions and intertidal organisms. The geology is fascinating, with layers of compacted tuff volcanic material that, due to wave and wind action, has eroded into different forms and shapes, namely “Elephant Rock” and an impressive natural cave.
During leisure time join a guide for a relaxing panga or glass-bottom boat ride, or snorkel or kayak.
Day 6: Isabela: Punta Vicente Roca | Fernandina: Punta Espinoza
Sunday, May 25, 2025 (B,L,D)
This morning explore the captivating coast of Isabela by watercraft looking for wildlife, including colonies of Galapagos fur seals, Nazca boobies, flightless cormorants, penguins and marine iguanas. Depending on conditions there may be a chance to snorkel along the cliffs, hopefully in the company of green sea turtles.
Back aboard Isabela II navigate along the Bolivar Channel where nutrient-rich upwellings provide fertile fishing grounds for cetaceans.
This adventure's final island destination is Fernandina, the youngest island of the archipelago and arguably one of the most pristine ecosystems on the planet. Punta Espinoza boasts an amazing combination of barren landscapes and abundant wildlife, all dominated by the lofty volcano at the heart of the island. Highlights to spot include hawks, penguins, countless marine iguanas and the famous flightless cormorant with its beguiling blue eyes.
Day 7: Baltra – Disembarkation | Flight to Quito, Ecuador
Monday, May 26, 2025 (B,L)
Bid a fond adiós to the Isabela II crew this morning prior to departing Baltra for Quito where you will spend your final night. (Returning flights to the U.S. may begin departing late evening on Day 7 approximately around 9:00 pm and later.)
For post-tour guests: Depending on prevailing air schedules, guests may take an evening group flight to Lima, Peru, and overnight near the airport.
Post-Tour Overnight: Wyndham Costa del Sol Airport Hotel
Day 8: Quito | Depart for U.S.
Tuesday, May 27, 2025 (B)
After breakfast main program guests departing during the suggested times take a complimentary transfer to the airport for flights home.
If post-tour guests did not depart on Day 7, they will depart Quito for flights to Cusco, Peru, this morning.
(Itinerary subject to change.)
| Category | Rate* |
|---|---|
| Standard: | $5,795 |
| Classic Double: | $6,795 |
| Classic Twin: | $6,995 |
| Premium Suite: | $8,995 |
| Single: | $9,995 |
*Special group rates; limited offer. Rates are per person based on double occupancy except where noted as Single, in U.S. dollars. Single availability limited. Internal airfare between the mainland and the Galapagos Islands is included. Airfare otherwise not included.
Immerse yourself in the unparalleled natural beauty and exclusivity of Mashpi Lodge, nestled within the lush Mashpi Rainforest. Each day, delve into the ecological wonders of the rainforest through interactive workshops, enriching nature activities and expert-led discussions that provide valuable insights into the region's unique flora and fauna.
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
Day +1: Arrive in Quito, Ecuador
Saturday, May 17, 2025
Upon arrival in Quito transfer to your five-star hotel to refresh for tomorrow's full day of activities.
Day +2: Quito | Mashpi Lodge | Mashpi Reserve
Sunday, May 18, 2025 (B,L,D)
After an early breakfast depart via group transfer, journeying 3.5 hours through the northwest corner of Quito's Metropolitan District. The sweeping landscape along the western flank of the Andes marks the equatorial line. Along the way stop to stretch before continuing the final descent into the Mashpi Reserve. Observe changes in the vegetation as you lower in altitude following the course of the Rio Blanco.
Arrive at the magnificent Mashpi Lodge where the staff and naturalist guides welcome you and conduct a brief orientation.
As you settle into your elegantly appointed room notice the seamless blend between modern design featuring locally-inspired décor and the charm of the rainforest—it's the perfect balance between luxury and nature. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer breathtaking views of the surrounding greenery, creating an enchanting ambiance amidst the tranquility of your room.
Enjoy lunch then choose from several optional activities. Take a guided hike to one of several waterfalls or follow the Howler Monkey Trail to the Life Centre, which provides extensive information about the rainforest's incredible biodiversity. Take time to relax in lounge chairs or spot for wildlife on the expansive observation deck, and later, visit the adjacent butterfly house.
After an exciting day of exploration return to the lodge for restful time to rejuvenate among the property's five-star amenities. Take a leisurely dip in the open-air rooftop hot tub or visit the spa for a luxurious treatment (additional fee applies) complemented by the soothing sounds of the rainforest.
At meals, prepare for gastronomic excellence, which is a top priority at the lodge. Talented chefs are dedicated to preparing Michelin-star quality, three-course cuisine using locally sourced ingredients.
As the evening sets in join an optional guided night walk along the Luminous Trail in search of various nocturnal creatures, including frogs, snakes, insects and even tarantulas.
Day +3: Mashpi Lodge | Mashpi Forest Canopy Exploration
Monday, May 19, 2025 (B,L,D)
Wake this morning to lively sounds from the variety of birds fluttering in the trees outside your windows. A staggering 400 species of birds—including approximately 36 of which are endemic—are estimated to inhabit this forest.
For early risers pre-breakfast activities are available to take advantage of the quietude of dawn beneath the canopy. Admire the plethora of plant species, from ferns and bromeliads to a vast assortment of orchid species—many newly discovered, which biologists come from around the world to observe.
After lunch get a birds-eye view of the Mashpi Forest canopy during a guided ride aboard the Dragonfly—an aerial cable car that offers a spectacularly unique way to see an expanse of the reserve. Go for the entire two-hour ride, or combine the Dragonfly experience with a guided nature or waterfall hike.
Located close to the lodge the Sky Bike makes for another thrilling way to explore the forest canopy. Designed to seat two people, pedal between two points of the forest approximately 655 feet apart. Next climb the Observation Tower to take in the reserve in its entirety and watch the sun set behind the clouds.
This evening join fellow travel companions to hear a collection of lectures by a resident biologist or naturalist, perhaps including Secret Wildlife of Mashpi: The Camera Trap Project or The Chocó: a Biological Hotspot about the formation and diversity of the Chocó.
Day +4: Mashpi | Quito | Main Program Begins
Tuesday, May 20, 2025 (B,L)
After breakfast and final activities at the lodge take a group transfer to Quito for lunch before joining the group for the main program.
Pre-tour space is limited. We recommend reserving early for best availability.
This pre-tour is not escorted by an Orbridge Expedition Leader, however, staff naturalists at the Mashpi Lodge are available for assistance with activity planning.
(Itinerary subject to change.)
| Category | Rate* |
|---|---|
| Double: | $1,995 |
| Single: | $2,895 |
*Pre-tour rate is per person based on double occupancy except where noted as Single, in U.S. dollars. Single availability limited. Airfare not included.
Travel to the mist-shrouded mountain citadel of the Incas. So remote and inaccessible that it was left untouched by the Spanish conquistadors, Machu Picchu was unknown to the outside world until Hiram Bingham rediscovered it in 1911. During your time in the Peruvian highlands, you will have a chance to explore the famous city of Cusco and the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Ride the train through the Urubamba Valley, marvel at the massive stone stairs at Ollantaytambo and break bread in the home of a local Peruvian family outside of Cusco.
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
Day 7: Depart Main Program | Flight to Lima, Peru
Monday, May 26, 2025
Depending on flight schedules guests may take a group flight to Lima this evening.
Day 8: Lima | Flight to Cusco | Sacred Valley
Tuesday, May 27, 2025 (B,L)
Fly over the Central Andes' peaks and plateaus to the ancient capital of Cusco, Peru.
After arrival meet your guide and transfer to the Sacred Valley. From harrowing mountain peaks and rural villages to roaming llamas and alpacas, the Sacred Valley of Peru is legendary.
In the late afternoon have a light lunch with fantastic photography opportunities of panoramic views over the Sacred Valley. This 70-mile narrow strip of land in the Peruvian Andes runs roughly from the old imperial capital of Cusco to the enigmatic citadel of Machu Picchu.
Before arriving to the hotel visit the Yucay Museum of Living Culture for a guided visit.
The evening is at leisure to refresh before tomorrow's exciting expedition to the heights of Peru.
Day 9: Sacred Valley | Machu Picchu
Wednesday, May 28, 2025 (B,L,D)
After breakfast make your way through the intimate cobblestone streets of Ollantaytambo, a "living" Inca town. Here, Inca descendants inhabit the largely unchanged homes of their ancestors and continue to maintain ancient customs and traditions. The massive fortress, perched among steep stone terraces carved into the hillside, is where the Inca won their greatest victory against the conquistadores.
Journey to the rail station to board the Vistadome train to Aguas Calientes, a town along the Urubamba River Valley that is a gateway to the Inca ruins of Machu Picchu.
Disembark the train for a bus ride up the mountain. Lunch will be at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, followed by guided exploration of the ruins. Learn about the archaeology and history of Intihuatana (the Sun Dial), the Sacred Plaza, and the Temple of the Sun, with plenty of time to wander, hike and take pictures of the photogenic site.
Return to the village at the base of the mountain and then the hotel. Perhaps take a short stroll through the lush gardens at the hotel before dinner.
Day 10: Machu Picchu | Sacred Valley | Cusco
Thursday, May 29, 2025 (B)
After an early breakfast experience the wonder of a quiet morning at Machu Picchu, imagining the sanctuary as it was centuries ago. Today have a more in-depth look at this amazing place and its surroundings from the upper citadel, then begin the return to Cusco.
Day 11: Cusco | Sacsayhuaman | Kenko | Villa Tipon | Cusco
Friday, May 30, 2025 (B,L)
Immersive excursions in Cusco this morning include visits to the colorful San Pedro market and Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun). From here continue to Sacsayhuaman and the Kenko archaelogical sites.
Enjoy lunch at a private home and hear an informative discussion about modern Peru followed by a traditional Pachamama ceremony.
The remainder of the afternoon and evening are at leisure.
Day 12: Cusco
Saturday, May 31, 2025 (B,D)
Today's activities may include a visit with a historian or a stop at one of Cusco's intriguing museums. Visit with artisans who make Andean musical instruments or hats.
Explore Cusco's streets still flanked in places by Inca walls built with gigantic carved granite blocks. View the unique masonry up close to truly appreciate the astonishing perfection and mass of this true Inca marvel.
This evening celebrate the rich rewards of your journey during a special farewell dinner.
Day 13: Cusco | Flight to Lima | Depart for U.S.
Sunday, June 1, 2025 (B)
After a leisurely morning and lunch in Cusco transfer to the airport for an afternoon flight to Lima.
An Orbridge representative will meet guests in Lima to assist with connections to tonight's international flights. A group room will be provided for comfort between flights. International flights will begin departing Lima late into the evening.
Hospitality Suite: Wyndham Costa del Sol Lima Airport
Post-tour space is limited. We recommend reserving early for best availability.
(Itinerary subject to change.)
| Category | Rate* |
|---|---|
| Double: | $5,190 |
| Deluxe Double: | $5,890 |
| Single: | $7,190 |
| Deluxe Single: | $7,990 |
—rate includes $1,195/person internal airfare—
*Post-tour rates are per person based on double occupancy, in U.S. dollars. Single availability limited. Internal airfare to/from Cusco is included. Airfare otherwise not included.
Orbridge strongly recommends that you purchase travel and cancellation insurance to protect your investment in the event of unexpected or unforeseen circumstances. It is best to look into travel insurance immediately after making your deposit. Depending on the insurance provider, some coverage can be linked to timing of initial payment. Check your options carefully. If you are on an international departure, you should purchase travel insurance that—at a minimum—provides emergency medical, evacuation, and repatriation coverage. Information regarding an insurance program will be sent to you directly from your alumni association. You also may wish to visit your alumni association’s travel website at https://select.travelinsure.com/?pcode=32248 for more information.
Travel with the Flying Jayhawks is a benefit of membership in the KU Alumni Association. If you are not a member, a $60 annual membership fee will be invoiced to you by KUAA.
Our air partners can make flight arrangements for guests. In the event of flight delays and/or schedule changes, they will provide guests with personalized assistance. To book flight reservations with our air partners, contact (206) 319-5011 and select the option for your destination to discuss flight details with our air colleagues. Upon ticketing, a fee will be charged.
On this program, you will have the benefit of an expert Expedition Leader with extensive local knowledge and experience as a cultural, historic, and naturalist interpreter. With their contribution of exceptional know-how and enthusiasm adding depth to your experience, enjoy the cultures and locations you explore with added confidence, understanding, and appreciation.
Orbridge looks forward to welcoming you on tour. Find frequently asked questions below to help you prepare for your travels.
NOTE: For guests confirmed on this tour, important Program Documents will be sent to the email address provided during the reservation process approximately four to five months prior to your departure date. Final Documents will be emailed and shipped via FedEx approximately two weeks prior to your departure date.
If you have questions about those documents or have questions not addressed below, contact Orbridge Guest Services at (206) 855-6929 or via email at guestservices@orbridge.com.
Guests should be sure-footed on stairs and able to walk at least one mile on rocky, volcanic, and uneven ground. Some optional nature hikes will be over irregular and steep terrain. Guests should also be comfortable managing wet beach landings and boarding small vessels, both from shore and the deck of the Isabela II. Guests will experience varying altitudes to which they may not be accustomed. The maximum elevation is 9,350 feet in Quito, Ecuador.
For the optional post-tour, guests should be sure-footed on stairs of varying heights and able to walk at least two miles on rocky, uneven ground without assistance. The maximum elevation is 11,200 feet in Cusco, Peru.
Arrival and departure information is provided in the Air & Transfer section of the Confirmation Documents emailed to reserved guests approximately five to seven days after booking a tour. Guests who arrive and depart during the suggested times are eligible to receive complimentary airport transfers. If you need an additional copy of your Confirmation Documents or have questions, email guestservices@orbridge.com for assistance.
A visa is not required.
A passport is required for all U.S. citizens traveling internationally.
Ensure that your passport has sufficient space for entry and exit stamps, and that it is valid for six months after the date of your return from this tour. U.S. passports issued to citizens 16 years of age or older is valid for 10 years.
Send a copy of your passport photo page to Orbridge at least 90 days prior to departure.
If you are not a U.S. citizen and are traveling abroad for tourism purposes, you will require a passport from your country of citizenship. You may require a visa, depending upon your country of citizenship's requirements for visiting countries on this tour. Check your visa status with those countries you will visit during your travel program and obtain visas, if needed.
Should you need the assistance of a visa specialist, we recommend using G3 Global Services. Along with the cost of the visa, a fee is charged for their service. Learn more here.
The U.S. dollar is Ecuador's legal currency. The country introduced its only monetary unit, the centavo coin, in 2000 when it converted from the sucre to the U.S. dollar. Centavo coins come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50, are identical in size and value to U.S. coinage, and circulate within Ecuador alongside U.S. coins and banknotes.
The Isabela II and properties on land accept U.S. dollars and major credit cards.
ATMs are available in Quito. Check with your bank to ensure you can use your ATM card in a foreign country.
Major credit cards are widely accepted, however merchants may a minimum purchase.
Inform your bank or credit card company prior to departure that you will be using your card(s) in another country to avoid security blocks. Your bank or credit card company may charge a fee for international transactions.
For the optional post-tour, the Nuevo Sol is Peru's legal currency, however U.S. dollars are legal and accepted for payment, particularly in tourist areas. It is helpful to have Nuevo Sol (in small denominations) on hand for personal purchases and incidentals.
Currency exchanges can be completed at casas de cambio or foreign exchange bureaus, which are open long hours and often give slightly better rates than banks. Do not exchange money on the street, as counterfeits are a problem.
The Galapagos Islands typically have two distinct seasons. The warm season is December to June, characterized by warmer air and water temperatures with more precipitation, resulting in a more tropical-feeling climate. Air temperatures range from low 70s ºF to high 80s ºF. Water temperatures average 75ºF.
The dry season is June to November, characterized by cooler air and water temperatures with less precipitation, resulting in warm but less humid days with cooler evenings. Air temperatures range from high 60s ºF to high 70s ºF. Water temperatures average 70ºF.
Quito's higher-elevation climate is milder. Daytime temperatures range from high 50s ºF to low 70s ºF.
Check the predicted forecast for your travel dates on weather.com to help you prepare.
All land accommodations in Ecuador visited during this program use 110V electrical outlets. A North American electrical device designed to operate in the 110V-120V range should work without a converter.
The Isabela II has standard North American 110V and USB outlets in each stateroom.
For the optional post-tour, Peru uses three types of outlets, and two of them may require the use of an adapter and/or converter:
All land accommodations in Peru visited during the post-tour use 220V, Type A or Type B electrical outlets. Most North American devices do not fit Type A sockets and use 120 volts, so you will need to bring a Type A adaptor and a converter.
The Isabela II offers on-board computers with complimentary Wi-Fi, however, internet connection is low bandwidth and intermittent. Therefore, you should be prepared for no internet access while sailing. The vessel also has radio, telephone, and fax communications available for an additional fee.
International Direct Dial is available at reception on board. The rate is $2 + 12% VAT per minute (subject to change) and connection strength varies.
Your U.S.-based cell phone may or may not work depending on your phone plan. Prior to travel, check with your cell phone provider about international phone plans, international fees, and service availability.
While viewing wildlife in their natural habitat, we strive to minimize our impact on the animals and the environment. Your Expedition Leader will ask you to follow these guidelines:
Flights to and from the Galapagos Islands restrict checked luggage to one 50-pound bag per person, one 17-pound carry-on bag (such as a camera case or daypack) that must fit in the overhead compartment or under your seat, and one small personal item, such as a handbag or tablet/small laptop.
The fee for overweight checked luggage is $2 per kilogram plus tax.
Airport inspectors will check bags for safety and any harmful species. Do not bring any fruits, seeds, flowers or other live plants.
On board the ship, you may store your bags in your stateroom, in the closet or under the bed.
For the optional post-tour, due to space constraints on the train carriages between the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, guests are allowed only one small carry-on, such as a backpack, for the overnight stay in Machu Picchu. The carry-on should weigh no more than 11 pounds and measure 62 inches overall (L + H + W). Your driver will transfer the remainder of your luggage to a secure storage room at the Cusco hotel until your return to the Sacred Valley. If you need to take additional luggage with you for the journey to Machu Picchu, it can be transported on a luggage car, but may travel on a different train and incur an additional fee.
Travel light and bring casual, lightweight clothing.
Quito's higher-altitude climate is mild. Bring a light outer layer to protect from occasional rain showers and to cover bare shoulders when entering a church or cathedral.
Light, summer clothing is ideal for the Galapagos Islands' warmer temperatures and humidity. The ship does not have a formal dress code, but shoes or sandals, shirts, and pants or shorts are required in public areas.
Knee-high socks are recommended to wear under the rubber boots provided while visiting the Tortoise Center.
Closed-toe shoes, lightweight hiking boots or athletic shoes with a rugged sole, are helpful for walks/hikes on rocky paths and volcanic flows. Closed-toe sport sandals or waterproof shoes are appropriate for wet landings. The crew will advise about footwear prior to each excursion.
Also consider packing:
The ship provides guests with masks, snorkels, fins, and shorty wetsuits (available in men’s sizes S-XXL, women’s sizes 6-16, and children’s sizes 6-16). We encourage you to pack any custom equipment that better suits your needs and fit.
A packing list will be included with your Final Documents. Use this form to personalize for your own needs.
The online Guest Information (GIF) does not allow you return and make updates once originally submitted. To update existing information, email the details to guestservices@orbridge.com, and your account will be updated accordingly.
To complete the GIF for the first time, access the secure online form here. It should take approximately 5-10 minutes to complete. The system will not save partially completed forms, so it's important to complete and submit the form in one sitting.
Access the secure passport form here to input information and upload an electronic copy.
Some domestic tours require us to collect a copy of the photo ID you plan to use while traveling in order to confirm on-tour arrangements. If you have been requested to provide a copy, upload a copy of your ID here.
To pay by check, make the check payable to Orbridge LLC and mail it to:
Orbridge
P.O. Box 1376
Poulsbo, WA 98370
To pay by credit card, click here to access our secure online credit card portal. Be sure to click “submit information” at the bottom of page one in order to be directed to the payment screen.
To pay by electronic funds transfer (EFT), click here to access our secure payment portal where you will be able to conveniently and securely provide your account and routing number.
Payments made by check or EFT may be eligible for a discount. Reference your final payment reminder or email guestservices@orbridge.com to learn more.
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