May 1-12, 2013

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS ORIGIN of SPECIES CRUISE with Dr. LINDA CAYOT 12 days/11 nights (8 days/7 nights aboard the luxurious MV Integrity)

Galapagos Conservancy, in collaboration with INCA (inca1.com), has arranged our 5th annual cruise around the Galapagos Islands in the company of two experts — Galapagos guide extraordinaire, Richard Polatty, and GC’s own Science Advisor and Galapagos wildlife and reptile expert, Dr. Linda Cayot.

This 12-day adventure, unlike any other Galapagos cruise available, has been designed by some of the most knowledgeable experts on Galapagos. With naturalist Richard Polatty, who has more than 25 years as a guide in Galapagos, and tour leader Linda Cayot, who lived and worked at the Charles Darwin Research Station in Galapagos for more than a decade, as well as visits from special guests from the Charles Darwin Research Station and other institutions, you will learn about the biological, evolutionary, and geological history of this extraordinary ecosystem and the efforts to conserve it for future generations.

Picture yourself in Charles Darwin’s shoes, as he voyaged to Galapagos more than 150 years ago. Be amazed by the mind-boggling array of fascinating creatures, from the fearless birdlife to the slow and steady giant tortoises and sea-faring marine iguanas. You’ll also enjoy the exclusive opportunity to go behind the scenes at the Charles Darwin Research Station and dine in the company of a few of Galapagos’ most ardent scientists and conservationists, while gaining insight into the efforts being made to keep the Galapagos Islands as pristine as they were when first discovered in 1535.

West Route (2014, 2016) East Route (2013, 2015) Route prior to 2011

Galapagos Conservancy hosts one cruise each year, and will alternate between the West and East Routes. Daily itineraries may change without notice.

2013’s cruise follows the East Route.

Day 1: Hotel Colon in Quito, Day 2: Fly to Baltra in Galapagos Galapagos Safari Camp, Santa Cruz Day 3: Charles Darwin Research Station Galapagos Safari Camp, Santa Cruz Day 4: Santa Cruz Exploration Board the MV Integrity for dinner Set sail! Days 5-11: Island hopping (See routes at left.) Day 11: Disembark yacht, return to Hotel Colon in Quito Day 12: Head home or to next adventure! TOUR LEADER NATURALIST Dr. Linda Cayot has Richard Polatty is INCA’s Chief worked for Galapagos Naturalist and Galapagos Guide conservation for more than Coordinator; he manages the 30 years. She first came guiding schedule and ensures to Galapagos in 1981 to the guides maintain their study giant tortoises for commitment to excellence. her PhD from Syracuse University. She has stayed involved in the Islands ever since. He began guiding in Galapagos in 1985 and has received only rave reviews since then. He has Linda served as herpetologist of the Charles Darwin Research been guiding exclusively for INCA’s Galapagos Island trips Station (CDRS) from 1988 to 1998, during which time she since 1990. Other impressive accomplishments of his include: supervised both the giant tortoise and land iguana breeding • principal author of the “CD-ROM encyclopedia of and rearing programs, worked extensively with the recently Galapagos” deceased Lonesome George, the last member of the tortoise • spokesperson for Pentax binoculars and featured in full subspecies Chelonoidis abingdoni from , and page ads in many international magazines (such as supervised Ecuadorian students studying the endemic reptiles Audubon and Smithsonian) of Galapagos, among many other endeavors. • active pilot with land and seaplane ratings • avid astronomer, having taught astronomy classes for the In her final year with the CDRS, Linda coordinated the start Galapagos National Park Naturalists Course of the successful Project Isabela, aimed at ridding Isabela • research associate for the Oceanites Foundation and and other islands of feral goats. She is currently the Science researcher for the Antarctic Site Inventory funded by the Advisor to Galapagos Conservancy, a nonprofit organization US National Science Foundation 1992 to present dedicated to the long-term protection of the Galapagos Islands. Linda participated in returning tortoises to Pinta Island Richard Polatty is originally from Atlanta, GA but has lived in in 2010, and more recently, she played a leading role in the Ecuador for 27 years. He earned his bachelors degree from Galapagos Tortoise Workshop of July 2012, making plans for Vanderbilt University and a masters from Emory University in the next 10 years of tortoise conservation in Galapagos. the United States. He is reforesting his ranch in the Galapagos highlands with native plants to help conserve endemic birds.

EXCEPTIONAL is the only term that comes to mind for both. Richard has indeed encyclopedic knowledge about the Galapagos and other subjects. Linda is a world renowned expert in her field. We were very fortunate to make our first visit to the Galapagos under the guidance of such gifted people. — Claude and Fabrizia Ostfeld, guests from GC’s 2010 cruise, on the quality of Richard and Linda’s trip knowledge and leadership

Eastern Route: A Summary The eastern half of the Galapagos Islands contains some of the oldest islands and the most abundant populations of seabirds. Española to the south and Genovesa to the north provide some of the best opportunities in the archipelago to see Nazca, Blue- footed, and Red-footed Boobies, as well as Lava Gulls, Swallow- tailed Gulls, Frigatebirds, Yellow-crowned Night Herons, and many others; and, in the case of Waved Albatrosses on Española, the only opportunity in the world. El Junco, one of a few freshwater lakes in the archipelago, sits in the highlands of Travellers from past GC cruises explore the islands. (Zorica Kovacevic) San Cristóbal, the oldest of the islands. Many satellite islands off the coasts of Española, San Cristóbal, Santa Cruz, and Santiago offer incredible opportunities for snorkeling and showcase beautiful landscapes teeming with Galapagos wildlife. Other highlights of this tour include a visit to the giant cactus groves on Santa Fe with the possibility of seeing the Santa Fe land iguana and a trek across an amazing lava field on the southern coast of Santiago, providing a glimpse at the origin of the islands. Our days on Santa Cruz will include giant tortoises and visits to other natural areas, as well as a look into the important role that humans play in protecting these extraordinary islands. The 2013 Day-by-Day Origin of Species Itinerary*

Day 1: May 1, 2013 PM Cerro Brujo & Kicker Rock — A short panga ride along Arrive in Quito, Ecuador and stay at the Hotel Hilton Colon. the cliffs of Cerro Brujo will be followed by a visit to the lovely coral sand beach, frequented by waders and migrant birds. Days 2-4: Baltra Airport and Santa Cruz Island Snorkelers will see an amazing array of sea life at Kicker In the morning, we’ll fly to in Galapagos! We’ll Rock, often including manta rays, sea turtles, and sharks. spend two full days exploring the varied ecology of Santa Non-snorkelers will enjoy a close cruise around dramatic Cruz Island, while staying at the Galapagos Safari Camp Non-snorkelers will enjoy a cruise around the base of in the lush highlands. During the course of our stay, we will dramatic Kicker Rock (top left photo), a 500 m vertical tuff hike in the moist highlands, visit giant tortoises in their natural cone. The orange glow on the rock at sunset is one of the habitat, visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, stroll more dramatic sights in all of Galapagos. through the bustling town of , and explore lava tubes. We’ll visit a few Galapagos Conservancy project sites Day 7: Santa Fé and South Plaza Islands to see conservation efforts in action and learn more about AM Santa Fé — After landing on a white beach usually how humans interact with the environment. We’ll have time to covered with sea lions, we’ll walk into a giant Opuntia cactus shop, dine well, and relax. The days will also include special grove where we’ll have the opportunity to see the endemic visits and meals with Station scientists and others involved in land iguanas. The land visit will be followed by snorkeling Galapagos conservation. and/or kayaking in the turquoise waters of the bay, full of sea lions, rays, urchins, eels, and fish of all colors. In the afternoon of Day 4, we will board our yacht, Integrity, PM South Plaza — We will see another species of Galapagos for dinner and set sail on our Island cruise. We will live land iguana as well as cactus finches. Both North and South aboard the yacht and spend as much time exploring the Plazas were formed by geological uplift and tilt to the north, islands as park rules permit. Every day will have some with cliffs on their southern coasts. On small islands like this, snorkeling and/or kayaking opportunities – not all of which terrestrial and marine species interact more than on the larger are mentioned in the following itinerary. Each night, we’ll islands, and the occasional hybrid iguana (land and marine) travel on to the next destination. with its “zebra-like” stripes can often be observed. The south- Day 5: Española Island facing cliffs swarm with a myriad of bird species. Bachelor sea AM Gardner Bay — We’ll stroll along a magnificent white lions climb steep cliffs in the late afternoon to spend nights sand beach where sea lions lounge, marine turtles nest, and away from the larger dominant bulls. the curious Española mockingbirds follow our every footstep. Day 8: We can take a brief swim on the beach or wait for an amazing AM Darwin Beach — At the north side of Darwin Bay, snorkel in the company of schools of colorful fish, turtles, sea this beach was formed by the rim of a sunken crater. Red lions, and possibly small sharks along the underwater cliffs of mangroves along the hiking trail provide habitat for yellow Gardener-by-Española, a small satellite islet. warblers, yellow-crowned night herons, and pintail ducks. The PM Punta Suárez — This is one of the Galapagos’ most highlight of this site is the incredible abundance of Red-footed famed visitor sites. You’ll be dazzled by spectacular cliff views Boobies, Frigatebirds, Swallow-tailed Gulls, and Yellow- of pounding surf and seemingly unlimited populations of an crowned Night Herons. Although the most abundant booby in amazing variety of seabirds. Brightly-colored marine iguanas the islands, this is one of the few places visitors can observe and the largest lava lizards of Galapagos frequent the Red-footed Boobies. coastline and rest on the trail. From the cliff top you’ll watch PM Prince Phillip’s Steps — While riding in a panga along the a blowhole spray water 30 meters in the air. Española is the base of the eastern cliffs of Darwin Bay, we’ll scour the cliff only island where you’ll see waved albatrosses and possibly crevices for all kinds of animal life. We’ll come to a rockfall observe their fascinating mating dance. that forms a natural staircase up the cliffs, known as Prince Day 6: San Cristóbal Island Phillip’s Steps or the “Stairway to Seabird Heaven.” We’ll walk AM Puerto Baquerizo Moreno & El Junco — Puerto Baquerizo through massive colonies of Red-footed and Nazca Boobies Moreno is the capital of the Galapagos province. We will and an extraordinary Palo Santo forest on the way to a lava travel from there up into the highlands and visit El Junco, one ridge where thousands of storm petrels dart about while short- of the few freshwater lakes in the islands. The lake sits in an eared owls stalk them for prey. extinct volcano and is an ideal spot for bird-watching. From the crater there is a view over most of the island, including Day 9: Santiago and Bartolomé Islands the 900 m peak of Cerro San Joaquin. There is time for AM Sulivan Bay (Santiago) — We’ll walk across a recent wandering the streets of the town before returning to the ship. lava flow and view its beautiful structural characteristics. Formed in the second half of the 19th century, the flow is too The Details young for much plant or animal life. It is the lava itself and the contrasting black pahoehoe flow and the reddish-yellow tuff This tour can accommodate 15 passengers, ages 10 cones that are the stars of this visit. The colors and shapes of years or older. Prices are per person, and approximately the lava are fantastic for photos. 12% of the cost goes toward Galapagos conservation. PM Bartolomé — Arguably the most recognized landmark Unlike many Galapagos trips available, roundtrip airfare in Galapagos, Pinnacle Rock juts straight out of Bartolomé’s between Quito and Galapagos is included. A $1500/ northern bay. Snorkeling in the bay provides visitors with a person non-refundable deposit is required. chance to swim with Galapagos Penguins. Climbing up the 600-m trail to the top of the island provides spectacular views of Double Stateroom $7,750 (12 people, Rooms 3-9) Pinnacle Rock, Santiago Island, and and Minor. King-suite $8,650 (2 people, Room 1) Single in own room $8,400 (1 person, Room 2) Day 10: Rábida and Sombrero Chino Islands ($1000 of the tour cost is a tax-deductible contribution AM Rábida — We’ll land at Red Beach where wading birds to Galapagos Conservancy and automatically entitles you and ghost crabs dot the sand. Behind the beach is a saltwater to membership in our elite Galapagos Ambassador Society) lagoon where Pintail ducks and Common Stilts are frequently seen along with a group of bachelor sea lions. Brown pelicans Price includes: nest in the nearby salt brush. A short trail inland provides a Roundtrip flights between Quito and Galapagos; roundtrip chance to observe finches, Galapagos Doves, Yellow Warblers, airport transfers in Quito and Galapagos; all yacht and hotel and mockingbirds, as well as the occasional snake. accommodations (2 nights at Hotel Colón in Quito, 2 nights PM Sombrero Chino — The turquoise waters near Sombrero at Galapagos Safari Camp in Galapagos, and 7 nights on Chino provide one of our best opportunities to see Galapagos board Integrity); all meals beginning with breakfast on Day 2 Penguins. A panga ride in search of wildlife is followed by a and ending with breakfast on Day 12 (Day 11 dinner in Quito snorkel that often includes sharks, sea lions, penguins, and is not included); all non-alcoholic beverages and beer while rays. We will land at a beautiful white sand beach for a short on Integrity; guided tours and special excursions with scientists; use of kayaks and snorkel equipment; MedEvac emergency walk along a trail that meanders over varying types of lava. insurance, and Galapagos yacht fuel surcharge.

Days 11-12: Baltra Island to Quito on the Mainland Price does not include: We’ll have breakfast on board Integrity, then disembark $100 Galapagos National Park entrance fee (this fee is at Baltra Island and fly back to Quito. Your afternoon and expected to increase within the next year.); $10 airport transit evening are free for city exploration. Enjoy your final overnight fee; roundtrip airfare between your home and Quito; meals on stay at Hotel Colon. You’ll depart for home on the 12th day, or Day 1 and Day 12; tips for yacht crews, guides, naturalists (at your discretion); wetsuits (which can be rented in Galapagos); continue with your own adventures in Ecuador. alcoholic beverages, except beer, on Integrity; excess baggage charges; insurance coverage for trip cancellation/interruption, * This itinerary may change at any time under orders from the travel accident, travel delay, baggage delay or theft (it is Galapagos National Park Service. recommended you obtain coverage for these items).

INTEGRITY BASICS type: motor yacht Size: 141 ft x 24 ft speed: 12 knots stabilizers: yes air conditioning: individually controlled guests: 16 crew + naturalist: 10 + 1 CD-DVD-LCD: en suite satellite phone: en suite kayaks: yes

For more information or to reserve your spot, contact: Becca Fuhrken at 703-383-0077 or [email protected] Galapagos Conservancy • 11150 Fairfax Boulevard, Suite 408 • Fairfax, VA 22030 • www.galapagos.org