Days 4 to 9

The Galapagos

Lying about 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands are a haven for some of the world’s most varied wildlife. It was this diversity that first led naturalist Charles Darwin to propose that species evolved in response to their environment. Today, tourism to the Galapagos is closely managed, and your visit adheres to the strictest standards of environmental responsibility. Because weather, water and wildlife conditions are subject to constant change, your island itinerary is not fixed, but two daily trips are planned to the main sites and islands.

Explore landmarks such as Punta Espinoza on Fernandina Island, El Barranco on Genovesa Island, Pinnacle Rock on Bartolome Island and the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island. Each day begins with an early breakfast, perhaps taken al fresco on Eclipse’s spacious deck. You’ll then board a sturdy rubber raft called a panga for the morning shore excursion. See sunbathing sea lions; skittering Sally Lightfoot crabs; tangles of marine iguanas; penguins, finches, terns and blue-footed boobies overhead and underfoot; even a century-old tortoise diligently trudging over the sand. You’ll return to Eclipse for a light lunch, followed by time at leisure. Keep your binoculars close by for a possible sighting of whales or seabirds.

In the afternoon, return to the pangas for the second excursion of the day, perhaps with an opportunity to swim, kayak or snorkel. You may well find yourself face to face with curious dolphins or sea lion stopping by to inspect the visitors to its equatorial home.

In the evening, your time is your own: attend a lecture on board by one of your friendly guides, recapping the day’s sights and gaining a sneak peek at tomorrow’s itinerary; explore the mysteries of the night sky with a fascinating astronomy lecture on deck; peruse the ship’s excellent library; or gather for cocktails in the lounge to cap off a day of extraordinary discovery.

Day 10

Hacienda Zuleta

Leaving the Eclipse behind, today you’ll fly from the Galapagos to Hacienda Zuleta in Otavalo, where you’ll stay for the next two nights. The rest of the day is yours to spend at leisure.

Day 11

Hacienda Zuleta

An early morning hike is the best way to start the day before a hearty breakfast. In the morning you’ll visit the Andean Condor reserve, where you can choose to arrive on foot, horse or bicycle. Here you’ll learn about the conservation of these magnificent birds and hopefully see a bird in full flight. For the more adventurous there are challenging hikes or take the horse drawn carriage down to visit the Foundation-run library where the local children spend their afternoons.

Day 12

Hacienda Zuleta/Quito

Today a member of the team will drive you from Zuleta back to Quito where you’ll spend two nights at Casa Gardenia; the evening is yours to enjoy Quito.

Day 13

Cotopaxi National Park

This morning you’ll meet your private guide for your trip to the incredible Cotopaxi National Park. Cotopaxi offers an excellent opportunity to see the Andean páramo (high grasslands) and its interesting flora and fauna. The Park’s centrepiece, Mount Cotopaxi, is Ecuador’s second highest peak and one of the world’s highest active volcanoes.

Day 14

Quito / UK

A member of the team will drive you to the airport for your onward travel back to the UK.