GALAPAGOS ISLANDS AND THE AMAZON JUNGLE MARCH 11 - 25, 2018

TRIP SUMMARY

HIGHLIGHTS

• Immerse yourself in the amazing biodiversity of Ecuador, from the Amazon to the Galapagos • Stay deep in the jungle, awaking to exotic bird calls • Swim and snorkel among sea lions and brightly colored fish • Hike to the rim of a volcano and see the effects of a 12 year old eruption

Phone: 877-439-4042 Outside the US: 410-435-1965 Fax: 410-435-3084 Email: info@goodadventure.com

TRIP AT A GLANCE Dates: Mar 11 - 25, 2018 Location: Ecuador's Galapagos Islands and Amazon Jungle Cost: $4,095.00 Activities: Multisport Arrive: Plan to arrive at the Quito airport (UIO) by 3pm on March 11 Depart: You can leave anytime on March 25

TRIP OVERVIEW

Located right on the equator, Ecuador has incredibly rich and varied geography and natural history. The Amazon Jungle is known for its exceptional biodiversity and the peoples who have lived there for centuries. The Galapagos Islands are loved the world over for their rich and accessible wildlife and fantastic geology. On this journey we experience both. We'll spend four days in the jungle learning about the flora and fauna as we walk on different trails, led by our guide who knows the area intimately. We'll also learn about the customs of the people who live there. In the Galapagos we'll swim with sea lions, snorkel in clear waters teeming with brightly colored fish, hike to a volcanic crater, and walk within a few feet of blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, and Giant Tortoises. Our unique itinerary takes you to three main islands as well as many coves and inlets that include a wealth of wildlife. Ecuador is widely regarded as the most diverse country in South America and this trip will take you to two of its most famous ecosystems.

RATING

This trip is appropriate for women in good physical condition who want to spend 4 to 6 hours every day actively exploring the Amazon Jungle and the Galapagos, including hiking and kayaking. With the exception of the hike up Sierra Negra Volcano, none of the days are strenuous; however, the days are full and some will involve early mornings. There are many opportunities to snorkel on this trip and being comfortable in the water is important if you want to snorkel. There are also several speedboat transfers and while the ocean is typically calmer this time of year, this trip may not be a good choice if you are very prone to seasickness. Rating: 1 2 [3] 4 5.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

• Local guides in the Amazon and the Galapagos and an AGC Trip Leader • Internal flights to Coca City and the Galapagos Islands • Double occupancy lodging in hotels (14 nights) • Meals as noted on the itinerary • All activities on the itinerary • Airport transfers on scheduled arriving and departing days • Gratuities for staff and day guides

Not included: Travel to and from Quito, Galapagos National Park Entry Fee ($100), Galapagos Transit Card ($20), Isabela Port Fee ($5), alcoholic beverages, guide gratuities, travel insurance, meals not noted on itinerary, optional activities not on the itinerary.

OUR ITINERARY

Below is the proposed itinerary for the trip. As is true on any adventure travel trip, plans for any specific day may be modified due to weather considerations, unforeseen circumstances, new opportunities, and group interests.

D A Y 1 MARCH 11, SUNDAY

Our trip starts in Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Ecuador's Capital City. At over 9,000 feet, Quito is the highest capital city in the world and it is likely you'll experience some symptoms of breathlessness as you walk around. We'll gather at 5 pm in the lobby for introductions and a trip orientation before going out for our first dinner together. Overnight Hotel La Cartuja or similar. D

D A Y 2 MARCH 12, MONDAY

Our adventure starts with an early morning transfer to the airport for our short 30-minute flight to Coca City. We'll be greeted by our hosts from Yarina Eco Lodge, an Eco lodge situated on the Napo River in the Amazon Rainforest. Started 10 years ago as a program to teach the importance of conserving wildlife and our environment with the local community and located in area of great diversity of micro-habitats, the lodge has steadily expanded its services and is part of one of best rescue centers of wildlife in the Ecuadorian Amazon. After an hour long ride in a motorized canoe, we arrive in time to settle in before lunch and an introductory briefing. Our exploration of the Amazon starts this afternoon with a walk on the Socali Path, a perfect introduction to learning about the different flora and fauna that we can find in different types of forest. We'll return in time for a little downtime before dinner and then be lulled to sleep by the sounds of the jungle. Overnight Yarina Lodge. B, L, D

D A Y 3 MARCH 13, TUESDAY

Today and each of the following days, we'll be offered a morning and afternoon activity, with return to the lodge for lunch. You might choose to do both, just one, or neither if you'd rather relax and soak up the ambience - the choice is completely yours. After breakfast we'll hike on the Capibara Path. Named after the small guinea pig like rodent that we are likely to see, the path traverses several swamps and we'll see palm trees that aren't possible to see any place else. After lunch and some downtime back at the lodge, in late afternoon our guides will teach us how to use a blowpipe (don't worry, we won't use it to shoot poisoned darts at each other). Following that we'll take a small canoe upriver to try our hand at piranha fishing. Even if we're successful, however, they won't be on our menu when we return to the lodge for dinner. Overnight Yarina Lodge. B, L, D

D A Y 4 MARCH 14, WEDNESDAY

We have two different hikes today that showcase different aspects of the jungle. After breakfast we don rubber boots for a canoe trip up river. On our way our guide will point out birds, butterflies, orchids, and amphibians. We then have a short hike on the trail 'Dos Ramas' as our guide teaches us about medicinal plants, birds, and animals. We return to the lodge for lunch before setting out on the Tucan trail. This trail takes us to one of the tallest birdwatching towers in the Ecuadorian jungle. At the top of the tower we'll be in the jungle canopy, where we can see birds that are hard to see from the jungle floor - really an amazing experience! We'll return to the lodge for dinner and some down time. Overnight Yarina Lodge. B, L, D

D A Y 5 MARCH 15, THURSDAY

We continue our jungle exploration today with learning more about the indigenous people of the Quichuas del Oriente community who have long inhabited the Amazon lowlands. We'll take the motor boat to visit one of the families who live there and, with our guide interpreting, learn about the traditions and dress of the tribe. After lunch back at the lodge we'll walk on the Guastos trail, learning more about how some plants, animals, and birds are traditionally used. This is our last night at the lodge and our regret at leaving the jungle, after all we've seen and done, is outweighed only by our excitement for the next leg of our adventure. Overnight Yarina Lodge. B, L, D

D A Y 6 MARCH 16, FRIDAY

After a final delicious breakfast, packing up, and a short hike this morning, we'll return by canoe to Coca City for our return flight to Quito. We'll have some free time to explore the city and dinner is on your own, so you can choose whether to spend time relaxing before the next leg of our adventure or enjoying the city and people of Quito and fitting in as much as possible. Overnight Hotel LaCartuja or similar. B

D A Y 7 MARCH 17, SATURDAY

It's back to the airport early this morning for our flight to the Galapagos! Today will be a long travel day but it will be mitigated by our excitement about being in the Galapagos. We arrive in Baltra, formerly the location of an air base built by the US Navy during WW II, located just off Santa Cruz Island and one of the two main airports in the Galapagos. After paying our Galapagos National Park Entry fee ($100 each), we transfer to Itabaca Channel where our we board our waiting speed boat for a 2.5-hour trip to Isabela Island. This seahorse-shaped island is the largest in the archipelago at 80 miles in length. Despite its remarkable beauty, Isabela is not a stop on most Galapagos cruises, making it a less-visited site perfect for our adventures. Isabela was formed approximately one million years ago by the merger of six shield volcanoes: Alcedo, Cerro Azul, Darwin, Ecuador, Sierra Negra, and Wolf, all but one of which are still active. Two of the volcanoes, Wolf and Cerro Azul, stretch above the cloud cover and are therefore arid on their upper flanks. Because it is a relatively young island, Isabela's lava fields and surrounding soil do not have the varied vegetation zones of other islands. Despite this, the rich animal, bird, and marine life are beyond compare.

Upon arrival on Puerto Villamil, the main town on Isabela, we check into San Vicente Hotel. On a walking tour we'll start learning about and get oriented to the area. Overnight San Vicente Hotel or similar. D

D A Y 8 MARCH 18, SUNDAY

We start our first full day on Isla Isabela with a short transport to the Tortoise Breeding Center, an initiative of the National Park for the conservation of Isabela's tortoises. With almost a thousand giant tortoises training for life on their own, we'll observe giant tortoises in all stages of development. After our visit, we'll walk back to town through the marshlands or humedales where elevated walkways take us over tidal lagoons that include four mangrove species and provide habitat for flamingos and numerous migratory birds. We'll arrive back to the village with plenty of time to choose your lunch spot and relax a bit before the afternoon activities.

The afternoon begins with a boat ride to the small isolated islet of Tintoreras or Shark Alley. This island is a unique volcanic formation. On its west face a primitive species of lichen flourishes in the moisture brought by the prevailing wind. This is a popular iguana nesting site that's home to hundreds of marine iguanas. In the quiet lagoon there are also boobies, penguins and other birds. We'll explore by boat and then by foot, walking through the volcanic rock and observing the wildlife and then, we'll explore by water - snorkeling! We'll snorkel in a calm inlet with colorful fish and winding underground lava tubes. This area is frequented by green sea turtles that like to rest on the calm, sandy bottom. Late afternoon, we'll return to town in search of our own sandy resting spot and enjoy our first Isabela sunset, arguably the most beautiful of all the islands. B, D

D A Y 9 MARCH 19, MONDAY

After breakfast this morning we drive to the highlands of Isabela for an entirely new view and feel of the Galapagos (and likely our most challenging day of the trip). After a 4 5minute drive we reach the starting point of our hike up Sierra Negra, one of the most active volcanoes in the Galapagos. It last erupted on October 22, 2005 and deposited a new and dramatic layer of lava. The caldera of this volcano is the second largest in the world, with a diameter of approximately six and a half miles. On our hike, 4 - 9 miles depending on our energy and the weather, we can spot a variety of birds, including finches and flycatchers and if we're lucky, the Galapagos hawk. From the rim of the caldera we hike to Chico Volcano to see fumaroles and the unusual lava formations, a striking visual record of the geological history of these islands. From our highest points, we'll enjoy views of Isabela's other volcanoes and nearby islands. Returning to the starting point of our hike and then driving back to town, we'll have time for a walk to the beach for a cool swim, or perhaps a stroll in town. B, L

D A Y 1 0 MARCH 20, TUESDAY

We'll begin the day with a with a kayak excursion in a protected bay. While here, we'll search for the protected Galapagos penguin - the only penguin found close the equator. It's also the smallest and looks like a duck until you see it out of the water. Along the way, we'll also keep an eye out for eagle rays, sea turtles, and blue-footed boobies. In the afternoon we head by boat to Isla Santa Cruz (about 2.5 hours), also called Indefatigable Island. The tourist capital of the Galapagos, Santa Cruz is located in the center of the Galapagos Islands archipelago. It is also the center of human activity, since the National Park Headquarters, the Darwin Research Station, and the largest settlement in the Galapagos Islands, Puerto Ayora, are all located on Academy Bay on the south side of Santa Cruz Island. We'll check in to the hotel and then go for a short walking tour of Puerto Ayora. Our hotel is close to the center of town and if you have been wanting to do some shopping, there are lots of choices here. Overnight Lobo de Mar hotel or similar. B, D

D A Y 1 1 MARCH 21, WEDNESDAY

Santa Cruz is the only island having a road that crosses its interior (running from Puerto Ayora in the south to the Itabaca Channel crossing in the north), thus providing visitors a rare opportunity to see the interior and higher elevations of a Galapagos island. This morning we drive to the Santa Cruz highlands where we will see wild Galapagos Tortoises. These huge creatures weigh 200 to 500 pounds and are scattered all over the island. Walking on level paths gives us the chance to observe the giant tortoise roaming in its natural habitat. Returning to town, in the afternoon we'll walk to Tortuga Bay, a gorgeous beach accessible only by foot. Do you prefer swimming, sunbathing, or bodysurfing? Or all 3? It's totally up to you. B, L

D A Y 1 2 MARCH 22, THURSDAY

This morning we'll visit the Charles Darwin Station, formerly the home of Lonesome George, the famous of his subspecies on Pinta Island. We'll learn about the Foundation's successes in repopulating the islands with the once endangered land iguana and several species of giant tortoise, and see the most representative animals of the islands. In the afternoon we'll take a speed boat to San Cristobal (about 2.5 hours), our last island on this journey. San Cristobal Island is the easternmost island in the archipelago chain. It is also one of the oldest and thus its volcanic peaks are greatly eroded and vegetation is more abundant than on the other islands. Upon arrival in the provincial capital and second-largest town in Galapagos, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, we'll have some time to settle into our hotel, Casa de Nelly, before going on a walking tour to get oriented to the town. Overnight Casa de Nelly or similar B, D

D A Y 1 3 MARCH 23, FRIDAY

This may be your favorite day, particularly if you like snorkeling. It begins with a short boat ride to Sea Lion Island where we'll disembark and take a short hike through and around the island observing the Frigatebird and their unusual mating rituals. The males have a distinctive red throat pouch, which they inflate during the breeding season to attract females. Sea lions and Blue Footed Boobies are also inhabitants and entertainers on the island. After observing the island by land, we'll next observe it by water -- snorkeling! We'll snorkel the length of the island on the lagoon side where we'll be treated to a beautiful array of tropical fish and sea stars. We'll most likely be joined by playful young sea lions and enjoy their graceful antics in the sea. After snorkeling, we'll return to the boat for lunch and then head over to Ochoa Beach where we can choose between finding a shady spot to relax, soak up some sun on the beach or float around in this gorgeous lagoon watching for turtles -- or, maybe all three! Returning to Isla San Cristobal we'll have a bit of free time to do whatever we want. Perhaps you might go for a hike to Frigate Bird Hill for panoramic views of the Pacific Islands and some bird watching. Or you may find it hard to leave Mann Beach, with its delightful setting and more opportunities to swim with sea lions. Perhaps you just want to sit on a quiet beach and reflect on everything you've seen and done in the past 2 weeks. However you want to spend it, it will be just perfect. B, L

D A Y 1 4 MARCH 24, SATURDAY

This morning we'll visit the Interpretation Center where we'll learn about the history of the 'Enchanted Islands' and the conservation projects which seek to preserve the unique Galapagos wildlife. It's a fitting way to spend our last time here and particularly meaningful after we've seen it all up front. And then it's time to head to the airport for our flight back to Quito and transfer to the hotel. We'll share a final farewell dinner tonight, saying goodbye to each other and to this amazing country. B, D

D A Y 1 5 MARCH 25, SUNDAY

This morning our adventure comes to an end. There are no planned activities and you can leave whenever you want. We'll arrange several group shuttles based on your departure times.

ADDITIONAL TRIP INFORMATION

GETTING THERE

You will be flying into the Mariscal Sucre Airport (UIO) in Quito, Ecuador. Airport transfers are on a group basis (which means you may need to wait for up to an hour for other people to arrive) on March 11 are included in the trip price. Once all travel plans are known, group times for transfers will be assigned. If you are arriving early or if you prefer not to wait for your assigned group transfer, alternatives include a private transfer, taking a taxi, using public buses, or an airport express bus. Detailed information will be included in your Pre-Departure document that will be sent out 5 months before the trip start.

If you would like help with any travel plans we recommend our travel agent Sara Schuitemaker at sara@scaneastwest.com or call 800/727-2157

ACCOMMODATIONS

We will spend two nights in Quito at a tourist class hotel about 5 blocks from the Old Town and our last night at the Wyndham Airport Hotel. In the Amazon we'll spend four nights at the Yarina Lodge, located on the Napo River. In the Galapagos we'll be staying at three different locally-owned and small hotels (see itinerary for specifics). In every hotel the rooms are double occupancy with ensuite bathrooms.

Vegetarian options for this trip will be limited. Other types of dietary needs cannot be accommodated unless supplemental food is brought.

WEATHER

Ecuador is on the equator and the weather varies with the location. Because Quito is at high elevation, the climate is cool with highs in the 60s and lows in the 40s. In the Amazon Rainforest, it's normally hot, humid, and sunny with average high temperatures in the mid-80s to 90s. Rainstorms can occur at any time of the day and April is about average for rainfall. In the Galapagos, it is sea currents that dictate temperature and weather conditions, specifically, the cold Humboldt Current from the south and the warm El Nino current from the north. Each year is different, depending on the currents and whether it is an "El Nino" year. Historically, the month of March sees temperatures (Max/Min) of 88/75. Average water temperatures for March are in the 70s and 80s, delightful for swimming.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND TRIP CANCELLATION/TRIP INTERRUPTION INSURANCE, WHICH COVERS YOUR COST IF YOU NEED TO CANCEL OR INTERRUPT YOUR TRIP for medical reasons, trip delay, lost baggage, and other unforeseen emergencies. Adventures in Good Company will send you information about travel insurance with your registration information, or you may purchase coverage through your own insurance company. In order to avoid disappointment and expense in the event that you must cancel your trip we strongly urge you to purchase some type of insurance coverage. You can also sign up for it online at Travelex Insurance. To get the best rates, use 20-0016 as your location number on the Get A Quote page.

PACKING LIST Please note: The packing list for this trip has been divided into 4 sections due to the distinct differences in climate and activities of the 3 areas you will be visiting (Quito, Galapagos Islands, Amazon Jungle). The last section will list items that are definitely common to all 3 areas such as sleepwear, etc. Just so you know, there will be a secure place to store items between trips. There will also be the opportunity to wash clothes between the Amazon and the Galapagos so you may be able to take advantage of any overlap in the packing list. Having the ability to leave items in Quito is especially important on this trip since there are several inter-island flights and luggage is limited to 35 total pounds/person.

QUITO:

FOOTWEAR __ 1 pair comfortable walking shoe for touring Quito. CLOTHING/EQUIPMENT __ Clothing suitable for touring Quito. Temps can be quite cool, long pants/long sleeve shirts suggested. __ Travel Umbrella __ Rain Jacket or rain poncho (For Quito, the rain jacket is recommended) __ Warm fleece/down jacket __ 1 buff for use as a neck gaiter __ 1 pair lightweight gloves AMAZON JUNGLE:

FOOTWEAR __ 1 pair sturdy tennis shoes, running shoes or lightweight hiking boots or trail shoes. Note: You may be wearing rubber

boots supplied by our Amazon partner for most of the hiking depending on the weather. __ 1 pair sandals for use around lodge __ 1- 2 pair ‘knee’ socks to use with rubber boots (Boots are provided. They are calf height; knee socks will help with

any possible chafing. (Trust me, these become your very best friend!) __ 1- 2 pair light nylon or cotton socks for miscellaneous use. __ 1 pair inner soles (prescription or over the counter) for use with rubber boots. We recommend Super Feet – see

notes on Packing List. CLOTHING/EQUIPMENT __ 1-2 pair lightweight pants: (Supplex, or nylon/polyester/spandex blend) __ 2 – 3 t-shirts (non-cotton) __ 1 lightweight, long sleeved shirt for sun protection (button up front is best) __ 1 brimmed hat, for rain and/or sun. __ 1 – 2 changes of comfortable clothes to wear around the lodge. __ Rain Jacket/pants or rain poncho. (Poncho recommended – lightweight but sturdy) __ Travel Umbrella

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS:

FOOTWEAR __ 1 pair sturdy tennis shoes or lightweight hiking boots or trail shoes. __ 1 pair sandals for use around hotel/village/etc. __ 2 pair light nylon or cotton socks

__ 1 pair slightly heavier sock for the Volcano hike day.

CLOTHING/EQUIPMENT __ 1 pair lightweight pants: (Supplex, or nylon/polyester/spandex blend) __ 1-2 lightweight long-sleeved shirts (a surfing shirt, called a “rash guard” is great for snorkeling and kayaking) __ Rain Jacket/pants or rain poncho. (Poncho recommended – lightweight but sturdy) __ 1- 2 pairs of shorts or ¾ pants. Non-cotton and quick drying. __ 2 – 3 t-shirts, non-cotton. __ 1 lightweight, long sleeved shirt for sun protection (button up front is best) __ 1 bathing suit - some women prefer ¾ leggings and long sleeved rash guard for snorkeling, kayaking, swimming. __ 1 – 2 changes of comfortable clothes to wear around the hotels and out to dinner (e.g. pants and/or skirt, with a

couple of tops) ALL 3 AREAS: CLOTHING/EQUIPMENT __ Capacity to carry 2 liters of water __ 1 – 2 bandana __ headlamp or flashlight with extra bulb and batteries __ small day pack for day use (hiking). Must be able to carry your rain gear, water, snacks, etc __ 1 brimmed hat or baseball style for protection from sun/rain __ Underwear/nightwear ESSENTIALS __ Passport (and copy of passport) __ sunglasses plus retention strap: 100% UV blocking __ 2 – 3 gallon Ziploc bags (wet clothes) __ watch with an alarm and/or small alarm clock __ ear plugs (for a good night’s sleep) __ Bug Repellant __ sunscreen (30 or higher) __ Lip protection with sunscreen (SPF of at least 15) TOILETRIES (small everything) __ towel, biodegradable soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, hand sanitizer, contact essentials, skin lotion, etc. __ extra pair sunglasses (also glasses if you wear them)

__ Personal first aid/patch kit - Band-Aids, 1 safety pin, moleskin, compeed (or blister bandages), ibuprofen, any

personal medications Please note: Individuals who have had or have the potential for a severe allergic reaction to insect stings, specific

foods or medications must bring an epi-pen. Please consult your physician and tell your guide.

OPTIONAL __ Camera and film/extra memory card __ One 2mm or 3mm wetsuit of a “shorty” style. __Book, notebook, journal __ Favorite snack and Gatorade powder __ Binoculars __ waterproof camera box __ Dry bag for personal items when on water. __ Beach cover up/sarong __ Hiking poles are optional but will come in handy on the volcano hike if you normally use poles

NOTES ON PACKING Adventures in Good Company's packing list covers everything you need to assure your safety and comfort. You may not use everything you bring; however, you need to come prepared for all possible weather conditions. At the same time, you must be able to carry your own luggage, sometimes up and down stairs. Daypacks: Your daypack should be large enough to hold the following items: 1 – 2 liters of water, rain gear, lunch/snacks (for the day), sun screen, warm layer (if needed for area) personal first aid kit personal items such as camera,etc. We recommend a daypack with a capacity of between 1800 and 2400 cubic inches with a hip belt, padded shoulder straps, and ‘lifters’. Line your daypack with a durable plastic bag to keep your belongings dry, or have an elasticized pack cover that fits snuggly over it. Before you leave home check to be sure that it is comfortable to wear all day and has sufficient space for all of your items. Personal First Aid Kit: Bring a small first aid kit with familiar medicine and first aid supplies you might need. Recommendations include the following: blister or foot remedies like moleskin, Compeed, blister bandages, or similar, a small role of duct tape (always useful!), remedies for respiratory ailments, stomach ailments, sore muscles or joints. The guides will have a first aid kit but having what you know works well for you is a good idea. Clothing: The clothing listed on the packing list has been chosen for your specific trip conditions and for its versatility for layering. NO COTTON for your active wear! It should all be made from synthetic/synthetic blends, down/down blends or wool/wool blends.

Rain Gear: You will need a waterproof/breathable garment for this trip. Fabric like Gore-tex, HellyTech, Membrane, H2No, or Ultrex is recommended. Be sure the garment you choose does keep water out. A rain jacket works best in Quito where staying warm can sometimes be the issue when it is raining. In the jungle and then in the Galapagos, a poncho (the longer style) is recommended. Ponchos aren’t quite as warm and also cover not only you but your backpack as well. Umbrellas are recommended for all 3 areas of your trip. If purchasing a rain poncho – be sure to buy one that is sturdy.

Dry Bags: If you choose to bring waterproof bags, several companies make vinyl bags with good closures (Sea to Summit, Phoenix, Outdoor Research, Cascade Designs). The oversize zip lock bags can also be used.

Bringing your camera on the trip: in regard to the Galapagos island portion of the trip, ocean water is highly corrosive to camera equipment. We suggest you consider protecting your camera from the salt by packing it in a waterproof sports bag. Many outdoor retailers and most camera shops have inflatable bags that are waterproof, float, and cushion your camera against bumps. Phoenix, Basic Designs, and manufacturers of whitewater equipment make inflatable camera bags. Ammo cans work and can be purchased at Army surplus stores.