Ecuador & the Galapagos Islands

Tour Code: ECU10

A 20-day holiday incorporating a 2-week cruise around the 'Enchanted Isles' in our First Class motor boat 'Cachalote Explorer', a visit to Antisana or Otavalo, plus an optional 3-day extension to Sacha Lodge in the Amazon.

20 days from
£9,295 (Inc flights)

Land only price from
£8,495

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Highlights

Summary

The Galapagos Islands form a volcanic archipelago straddling the equator some 960 kilometres off the coast of Ecuador. They consist of volcanic peaks, strange lava fields, beautiful sandy bays, and clear seas. Their natural history is outstanding, and much of it is endemic. There are Giant Tortoises, prehistoric-looking Land and Marine Iguanas, and countless breeding seabirds; most appealing of all is the ‘tame’ and obliging nature of the islands’ extraordinary wildlife. Our unique 2-week cruise avoids the routine, large and luxury motor vessels. Instead we charter our own comfortable First Class motor boat (accommodates 16 passengers), which gives us the freedom to visit all of the major islands, and many of the smaller ones.

The most comprehensive Galapagos cruise on the market
28 endemic birds including the Darwin's finches
Led by expert natural history guide, born & raised in Galapagos
Daily landings at wildlife-rich visitor sites for Giant Tortoise, Blue-footed Boobies & more
Ample time & superb opportunities for photography
Snorkel in crystal-clear, fish-filled waters with inquisitive young Galapagos Sea Lions
Visits to Espanola, Genovesa & Fernandina
Waved Albatrosses nesting & courting May - December
Look for seabirds & cetaceans as we cruise between islands
Exciting Amazon rainforest extension at Sacha Lodge

Grading

Day walks only. Easy and optional, although terrain can be rough and unforgiving over lava fields.

The Galápagos Islands, surely, need no introduction. Ancient seafarers called them the Enchanted Isles, recognising their unique landscape and extraordinary fauna, but it was Charles Darwin who drew them to the world’s attention. By observing the fascinating changes and adaptations made in the birds and reptiles through thousands of years of isolation on these predator-free islands, Darwin was able to formulate his theory of evolution.

The Galápagos Islands form a large archipelago straddling the equator some 960 kilometres off the coast of Ecuador. Of volcanic origin, they are beautiful islands with great variety and often bizarre form; each island with its own peculiar shape and charm. There are volcanic peaks, strange lava fields, beautiful sandy bays, and clear seas, perfect for snorkelling in the sheltered coves. Their natural history is outstanding — so much of it endemic. 28 bird species, from the Small Ground Finch to the magnificent Waved Albatross, occur nowhere else in the world. There are giant tortoises, prehistoric-looking Land and Marine Iguanas, colourful crabs such as the Sally Lightfoot, and even a Galápagos Snake. Most appealing of all is the tame and obliging nature of this extraordinary wildlife; it is a photographer’s paradise — a telephoto lens is usually unnecessary.

Our 2-week cruise is special. We avoid the routine, large and luxury motor vessels, and their noisy crowds, by chartering our own vessel — an elegant motor boat that accommodates 16 passengers in comfortable quarters. This provides a freedom, flexibility and group independence essential to the specialist nature of our holiday. Moving at our own pace, we will have a greater chance to enjoy these islands to the full, and to benefit from the knowledge of our expert naturalist-guide.

We will aim to visit all the major islands and many smaller ones, starting and ending our cruise on Baltra Island. At Academy Bay, on Santa Cruz Island, we will visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and the giant tortoise breeding station, and make a trip up to the highlands to look for the reptiles in the wild. We will walk amongst spectacular volcanic scenery on Bartolomé Island, and we will swim amongst fur seals and Sea Lions from the beaches on James Island. With a mixture of night-time voyages (for the longer navigations) and shorter day-time sailings, we will explore each island for its own peculiar wildlife specialities. On Española we should see the magnificent Waved Albatross in November together with thousands of nesting seabirds and colourful Marine Iguanas. Genovesa, way to the north, hosts huge colonies of frigatebirds and Red-footed and Masked Boobies, plus a population of storm-petrel-hunting diurnal Short-eared Owls. Fernandina, geologically the newest of the islands and volcanically active as recently as January 2020, offers wonderful scenery with spectacular isolation. Endemic Flightless Cormorants breed here and we must keep an eye to sea for the chance of a passing pod of Orca or Bryde’s Whales.

As we cruise between the islands, there is time to read, relax and keep a tour diary. There will be time to sea-watch, enjoying our quiet companions the petrels, shearwaters, gulls and boobies, and to keep an eye out for dolphins playfully swimming in the bow-wave of our boat.

In Ecuador, after our cruise, we offer a choice between spending a day visiting and birdwatching on Antisana, a magnificent volcano permanently adorned with snow, and a day at Otavalo, an Indian town to the north of Quito with one of the best indigenous markets in South America. We also offer an extension to Sacha Lodge in the Amazon Jungle, enjoying the rich birdlife of the area and the various trails and dug-out canoe excursions that enable a thorough exploration of this area of the great Amazon rainforest.

DETAILED INFORMATION

Itinerary

Outline Itinerary

Day 1

Fly London to Quito

Day 2

Quito

Day 3/16

Galápagos cruise

Day 17

Quito

Day 18

Antisana or Otavalo

Day 19

Depart Quito

Day 20

Arrive London

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What's Included

What's Included?

Flights
Accommodation:
Comfortable hotel, Quito; comfortable motor boat in the Galápagos; and Sacha Lodge, Amazon extension. Private facilities on land and twin-share cabin on the boat.
Food:
Included in the price, except for main meals in Quito. Allow £60+.

Reviews

Darwin Alvarez must be the best guide in the Galagapos. His knowledge was encyclopaedic about the animals, geology, volcanoes, natural history, economics and politics of Ecuador, in fact there wasn't a question he couldn't answer or subject he couldn't cover. He was a fountain of knowledge and had numerous anecdotes and experiences to share. He was charming and helpful to everyone all the time. He helped those who had difficulty snorkelling so they had some experience of the underwater life. What more could I ask for? For two weeks Darwin gave us his all so we had the best experience of the Galapagos. A brilliant guide and tour leader.
Darwin Alvarez was our man in Galapagos and was nothing short of amazing, from his knowledge of birds and wildlife, fish and underwater life, volcanic structures and if we were likely to see anything exciting happening to local knowledge of crops and farm life. No question was left unanswered, sometimes a two hour walk took two and a half hours as he got so enthusiastic about answering our many questions, Why were goats introduced to Galapagos ? How many eggs to turtles lay in a season ? Which is the north star ? He knew it all and no question was felt to be 'silly'.
CJ, Surrey, Jan 24
It is very difficult to say which part of the holiday I enjoyed the most as every day was brilliant. I particularly enjoyed the snorkelling and seeing so many colourful fish, sea lions, turtles and penguins. Also seeing the birds - blue footed boogies, red footed boobies, magnificent frigate birds - at such close range. I found Naturetrek to be very efficient and helpful.
V.H. Suffolk, Jan 23

After an interesting day on a guided tour of Quito, [we took] a short flight to the Galápagos Islands and a two week cruise around the iconic Islands on a friendly little boat - Cachalote Explorer - with the most brilliant of Naturalist Guides, Juan Tapia, whose enthusiasm is unbounded and knowledge encyclopaedic. Unbelievable snorkelling with shoals of tropical fish - imagine swimming in an aquarium - rays, sea lions and 4 species of shark. Follow this with 3 days in the rainforest staying at a superb ecolodge with daily excursions into the surrounding ecosystem. Our initial email enquiry was answered within hours, despite the ongoing lockdown, and in all subsequent calls or emails our queries were answered promptly and thoroughly. Their initial information pack was very comprehensive but readily understood from recommended packing lists to flight information and the pre-departure pack left nothing out. All the overseas arrangements, collections, guides, cars, etc, were faultless.
G.W. Lancashire, Feb 22

This is how I would describe our two week holiday to the Galápagos aboard the Cachalotte Explorer. These islands are just amazing in both their raw beauty and individuality. On this cruise of only 16 passengers (a perfect number) we were able to visit most of the permitted islands and thus appreciate their different characteristics due to position age and climate and the wildlife that has also adapted to each. Walking in Darwin’s footsteps was truly an awe inspiring experience seeing what he saw and realising that the birth of his theories were born right there in only the five weeks he was permitted to stay by Captain Fitzroy. Our snorkelling expeditions were also every bit as inspiring with at times there seeming to be almost more fish than water to hold them. This just has to be on everyone’s ‘bucket list’.
J.C. Berkshire, Feb 20

We feel that the trip lived up to our expectations and surpassed it in many ways. All the guides were very enthusiastic, wanting us to appreciate the wonderful wildlife that they are so proud of. It was an amazing travel experience, we loved the variety of wildlife, the different geological formations of the volcanic islands, and the snorkelling. The organisation of the trip was very good too.
T.J, Glamorgan, Feb 20

14 night cruise around Galapagos + 2 nights in Quito either end. It was a massive privilege to walk through nesting colonies of frigates and boobies, find some late-leaving albatrosses, be constantly escorted at sea by flocks of petrels and phalaropes and pause until sea lions, iguanas or tortoises decided to move off the path. The guide was fantastic, the boat crew a total delight. I chose Naturetrek because they were one of the few companies offering a 14 night cruise and for their specialism in environmentally friendly holidays. The pre-departure information and general organization were all very good.
D.D. Middlesex, Jan 20

This was my dream trip from when I was very young and I feel privileged to have been able to see the varied range of wildlife, above and below the water. Our guide was exceptional in his knowledge and enthusiasm , he clearly loved the islands and was a very good teacher. The travel organisation was faultless. We had a wonderful, magical experience!

We had the full Galapagos experience of giant tortoises and blue-footed boobies, landing in surf and walking on lava, sweating in the sun and gazing at clear starry night skies. Being in a small group was essential, and I have made some good friends.
J.P. West Midlands, Jan 19

My two week cruise around the Galapagos Islands was amazing. All the expected wildlife, time to appreciate it and everything so close it was easy to get superb photographs. The excursions either side of the cruise, to Quito old town, the botanic gardens in Quito and to the Antisana Volcano reserve were also well run and fascinating. To round things off, a three-day extension to the Amazon rainforest at Sacha Lodge. Truly a trip of a lifetime. Naturetrek were helpful and informative from start to finish. All the literature by both email and post arrived promptly and the whole trip ran like clockwork. We were superbly looked after from start to finish in excellent accommodation and with friendly and informative guides at every point.
P.T. Norfolk, Dec 18

The holiday was fantastic - it was beyond my expectations and the two guides were both outstanding and contributed hugely to making it a very special trip. Xavier was extremely knowledgeable about Quito, Ecuador and South American history, birds and wildlife in general. Nothing was too much trouble form him, a very intelligent and supportive guide, very enthusiastic too - a treasure! Juan was wonderful, non-stop enthusiasm about all wildlife and extremely knowledgeable about everything. He made the whole trip fun and exciting. The hotel in Quito was excellent and a nice place to acclimatise. The museums in Quito were excellent. The snorkelling was brilliant. A wonderful trip and yes, we will be using you again!
C.B. London

The team on board the Cachalote was exceptional. The food was magnificent throughout. Xavier, our tour leader was highly knowledgeable, cheerful and able to resolve minor problems without most people realising that they existed! He was always on hand with help and encouragement. Our National Park guide, Juan, was the star of the show...his evening briefings became eagerly awaited performances. His knowledge of plants and volcanic formations was encyclopaedic and his love of the islands and his respect for the wildlife was obvious. The expeditions to the various island sites were pitched at the right level for us and most of the group. The visit to the Santa Cruz highlands was one of the highlights, and the varying wildlife and landscapes of the islands provided an amazing experience which we will always remember. Both of us enjoyed the day in the Antisana region, and the Sacha extension provided another magical experience. The lodge was superb and the guides again excelled.
I. & E.C. Staffordshire

Thank you for the opportunity to experience the Galapagos islands and the rainforest. I can not praise the leader enough. I cannot imagine a more knowledgeable guide. His approach to the group was professional but also friendly; a difficult compromise to achieve. All the drivers were very good and the flights were excellent. The organisation of the holiday was outstanding.
Mr & Mrs B. Lancashire

After 15 years of this type of travel we thought Darwin Alvarez and Vinicio Ortiz were the best guide and tour leader we have ever had.
T.E. Berkshire

An excellent holiday that exceeded my expectations. The Naturetrek group was extremely good and we all hit it off! Darwin Alvarez was a brilliant guide, superlatives are not enough. He was easy going, very knowledgeable and patient, a credit to the Galapagos national park service.
D.B. Somerset

The tour guide guide, Darwin, was exemplary and the crew, also excellent. We had our 40th Wedding Anniversary whilst on board and our fellow guests and crew gave us a surprise celebration, complete with decorated cake! The whole holiday exceeded expectations and will be unforgettable.
Mr & Mrs Y. Worcestershire

A wonderful trip, Darwin was a brilliant guide, he was very knowledgeable, enthusiastic, courteous and good humoured. The cruise of the islands on the Cachalote, was an unforgettable experience, the cook produced a wonderful variety of delicious meals from his little galley. The rainforest experience at Sacha Lodge was also tremendous.
Mr & Mrs B. Essex

An amazing adventure. Any lover of nature should put these places at the top of their agenda. The Amazon basin is somewhere we have all seen on TV but to experience it gives a new perspective. Seeing giant otters, many species of monkey and the varied and magnificent bird life is something worth doing in its own right. However, to accompany such a visit with a tour of the Galapagos raises the experience to a whole new level. I have been to many wonderful places in Africa, America and Australia but I would put the Galapagos top of my list. The combination of islands in all their variety and the sea cruises in between, in waters teeming with marine life is exhilarating. The wildlife is so unafraid of humans that the main problem is to avoid accidentally stepping on sleeping sea lions or nesting birds as you walk along the paths and beaches. Snorkelling with sea lions, feeding turtles, penguins, flightless cormorants, sharks, rays and a variety of tropical fish is a wonderful thing to do. We used a small 16 berth schooner on our Naturetrek holiday and I am pleased that we did. It seemed to put us in touch with our surroundings in a way that the bigger boats we saw wouldn't have done. The group were brilliant and everyone got along, having a common interest in nature. The crew were marvellous, the food great and our guide, Darwin, couldn't have been better. His knowledge and ability to inspire were first class. We were looked after wonderfully and Naturetrek's organisation was impeccable. Every day involves wet and dry landings on the islands, walks to see the wildlife and geology, swimming and snorkelling or simply relaxing on the boat if that's what you felt like. This combination of activities and relaxation made the holiday into far more than a simple passive viewing experience.
J.W. Buckinghamshire

Naturetrek does wildlife holidays to iconic destinations and the Galapagos has it all. We spent 14 nights on a topsail schooner, so were able to get where the bigger boats could not. There was a short written guide for each landing site to tell us about the island's geology, wildlife and a lecture each evening with more detail. Everyone was interested in wildlife, but the bird watchers shared their knowledge and we all saw the many finches with a discussion of what made each different. The small group gelled with their shared interests, so the social life was also fun. Meals on a rough crossing had everyone grabbing their beers and laughing as the steward served. There was also time to relax, and read and write up diaries on the spacious decks while keeping a eye out for birds. Wildlife highlights: watching the waved albatross fledglings learning to fly, and almost taking off in the wind; the tortoise by the "stop" sign on the path, so we did; the cute baby sea lions; the pilot whales swimming around and under the boat.
L.C. Surrey

We spent 13 days on a boat visiting 13 of the Galapagos islands. Each morning and afternoon was spent viewing the wildlife accompanied by a local expert. Part of some days was spent snorkelling . The geology was amazing, though these are not picture postcard South Sea Islands. On land we saw land and marine iguanas, crabs , giant tortoises and identified more than 50 varieties of bird. It was fabulous to be in such close proximity to them, they did not appear to be afraid or feel threatened. In the surrounding ocean we saw orca whales, basking sharks, bottle nose dolphins, sea lions, penguins, rays, turtles and countless varieties of fish. It was a privilege to visit this wild life heritage site.
S.J. East Riding of Yorkshire

We spent two weeks travelling round the Galapagos Islands in a motorised Yacht with a total of 16 passengers. Both the guide and the chef were outstanding which enhanced the enjoyment. We snorkelled with turtles, sea lions and sharks, as well as shoals of colourful fish. We climbed up to volcanic craters and watched giant tortoises mating. On panga rides we gazed at golden rays swimming in formation and flightless cormorants perched on rocky islands. On land we admired male frigate birds inflating their red "throat balloons" to attract females. At every turn there was something to watch and enjoy. What an experience to find birds and other animals which are not afraid of humans! Paradise indeed!
W.A. West Sussex

We had an amazing two week holiday aboard a two masted yacht sailing around the Galapagos islands in February 2016. We saw all the wonderful birdlife and land based wildlife but for me, the most incredible experiences were in the water. We snorkelled nearly every day and had unforgettable encounters with turtles, penguins, cormorants and several types of shark, including massive hammerheads.
D.S. Norfolk

Now in our early seventies, my husband and I share a vision see as much of the world whilst both still physically and mentally fit. Ecuador and The Galapagos has been one of those "must do" destinations so this February we left behind the dark grey skies and relentless rain of England to embark on a holiday of a lifetime. We did our homework before leaving so we would hit the ground running on arrival in Quito but no amount of reading would have given us the "in-depth" knowledge of our local guides who were quite exceptional. Punctual, articulate,friendly and extremely patient wherever we went : nothing was too much trouble. The Cachelote was our home for a fourteen day passage around most of the thirteen islands of the Galapagos and during that time we became good friends with all the Crew who looked after us so well. Everyday was packed, with visits ashore under the tutelage of our Naturalist Guide, James, who himself is passionate about the National Park and it's well-being. No day disappointed, the wildlife was amazing, skies cloudless, waters calm and the people we met so genuine in their welcome. We can scarcely believe that it is only two weeks ago we were swimming and snorkelling with hammer-head Sharks, manta-Rays, sea lions, penguins, turtles, marine iguanas and shoals and shoals of stunning fish: a photographer's paradise in every respect. The highlights? For me, kayaking in the Pacific whilst blue-footed boobies dived majestically around me, affording a freedom and peace of mind that erased the everyday stresses of life we left behind in England. For my husband , snorkelling with a Go-Pro and capturing no fewer than six large hammer-heads as they swam beneath him. If you haven't yet visited start saving now! A holiday of a lifetime awaits!
J.B. Hampshire

This holiday exceeded my expectations; two weeks cruising between the beautiful Galápagos Islands, crisis-crossing the equator, snorkelling with hammerhead sharks, sea lions, turtles and too many beautiful fish to list. The Rain Forest has to be experienced to be believed. I found the humidity challenging but will not forget walking across the high tree canopy walkway looking down on monkeys and so many beautiful birds. Truly a trip of a lifetime.
L.T. Norfolk

My 2 week trip to the Galápagos Islands was without doubt one of the highlights of my 4 month tour of Bolivia and Ecuador. I had dreamt of visiting these islands since I was a child and the tour still managed to exceed my expectations. In the 2 weeks we were able to cover the entire archipelago and land on every island where it is possible. Each day brought us something new and the views of the wildlife could hardly have been better. We had the opportunity to explore by land and to take to the water. Snorkelling was offered most days and we also took boat trips close to the shore. This enabled us to get very close to the birds, mammals, iguanas, tortoises, lizards and fish which live there. It was also interesting to consider the geology of the region and note the impact that volcanic activity has on the islands. We even witnessed a volcanic event when a cloud of gas vented off from a fissure close to where we were moored. Our guide, Juan, with 30 years of experience was full of knowledge and this was coupled with his great enthusiasm which was infectious. He ensured that we saw the most that was possible during our stay.
A.B. Edinburgh

An amazing experience - of a lifetime for people my age! Darwin Alvarez was outstanding! In many trips abroad with many leaders, I have never come across anyone with such a complete knowledge of his subject(s)! History, geology, meteorology, birds, fish, plants, insects - awesome! His self-taught English was also flawless - so were his diving/snorkelling abilities!
T.G. Guernsey

My recent trip to The Galapgaos/Sacha Lodge was everything I expected it to be - and more. Two nights in Quito included a comprehensive tour of that fascinating city. Our group(just 16 people)was met at Baltra by our guide, Darwin Alvarez, and our tour of the islands started immediately with a trip to see giant tortoises, followed by a lovely lunch, before boarding the Cachalote, our floating 'home' for the next two weeks. Darwin was just superb and his enthusiasm was infectious; his knowledge added even more to the experience of visiting so many of these very special islands. Nothing was too much trouble for the crew of the Cachalote either, with the captain willingly changing course if something interesting was spotted in the water. The chef catered for all/any special dietary requirements, even making me a glorious chocolate and nut cake for my birthday which occurred halfway through the cruise of the islands, and Richard's cocktails, to celebrate crossing the Equator, were something else! Sacha Lodge was a totally different experience but equally as outstanding. The long and varied journey to even reach it was an adventure in itself and again, nothing was too much trouble for either the staff or the guides who took us out two or three times a day, either on foot or by canoe, to experience this truly magical part of the world. Truly a holiday of a lifetime.
A.A.

An amazing adventure. Any lover of nature should put these places at the top of their agenda. The Amazon basin is somewhere we have all seen on TV but to experience it gives a new perspective. Seeing giant otters, many species of monkey and the varied and magnificent bird life is something worth doing in its own right. However, to accompany such a visit with a tour of the Galapagos raises the experience to a whole new level. I have been to many wonderful places in Africa, America and Australia but I would put the Galapagos top of my list. The combination of islands in all their variety and the sea cruises in between, in waters teeming with marine life is exhilarating. The wildlife is so unafraid of humans that the main problem is to avoid accidentally stepping on sleeping sea lions or nesting birds as you walk along the paths and beaches. Snorkelling with sea lions, feeding turtles, penguins, flightless cormorants, sharks, rays and a variety of tropical fish is a wonderful thing to do. We used a small 16 berth schooner on our Naturetrek holiday and I am pleased that we did. It seemed to put us in touch with our surroundings in a way that the bigger boats we saw wouldn't have done. The group were brilliant and everyone got along, having a common interest in nature. The crew were marvellous, the food great and our guide, Darwin, couldn't have been better. His knowledge and ability to inspire were first class. We were looked after wonderfully and Naturetrek's organisation was impeccable. Every day involves wet and dry landings on the islands, walks to see the wildlife and geology, swimming and snorkelling or simply relaxing on the boat if that's what you felt like. This combination of activities and relaxation made the holiday into far more than a simple passive viewing experience.
J.W. Cheshire

The holiday was great value for money. How such good food can be cooked in a little galley is beyond us. The crew were just fantastic and nice people too. All the guides and drivers were good. We have no complaints at all about this trip.
Mr & Mrs B. Kent

Food was superb and fresh fruit juices of many flavours. As a confident swimmer I loved the snorkelling every day and swimming with Turtles, Sharks and Sea Lions. Our guide David Paez was extremely good. He explained the programme for each day and had a summary on a whiteboard for us to refer to all day. He is very knowledgeable but doesn't tell you too much. Walks were organised to avoid other groups as much as possible and at certain points we were given time to do our own thing, stand and stare, watch animal behaviour. We never felt rushed which was lovely. They were also cunningly arranged to avoid the heat of the day. Both hotels in Quito were good. We particularly liked the Garden Hotel, Puembo. Trips in Quito were good. Ours to Otovalo was flexible and we went to a leather goods village as well, which was wonderful. The restaurant on this trip was lovely and very characterful.
W.A. Surrey

The Islands speak for themselves, wonderful to be able to experience so many of them. We trialled the staying at Guayaquil option and that worked extremely well. The meet and greet was extremely efficient. The Grand Hotel an excellent choice in itself and location, and the guided trips very enjoyable, particularly the canoe trip in the Churute Mangrove Forest on our return from the Islands. We had the good fortune to have Darwin Alvarez as our guide. He really contributed to the understanding and enjoyment of the Islands in his depth of knowledge of every aspect , and also his care of us.
Mr & Mrs E. Manchester

Darwin Alvarez was an excellent guide on the Galapagos, not just sharing his knowledge - which makes a huge difference to our appreciation of what we saw - but for his all round professionalism and commitment. We particularly appreciated his leadership and support in the snorkelling sessions, which comprised a major highlight. The guiding at Sacha Lodge was also very good too. This extension certainly added a whole new dimension to the overall experience and we would recommend anyone to take the option
Mr & Mrs B. Warwickshire

Darwin Alvarez's knowledge was amazing. The tour was fantastic anyway but his contribution added to the experience. The Cachalote was a great way to tour the islands - the crew were great.
B.M. South Glamorgan

Our local guide Darwin Alvarez was excellent. A small boat meant we visited the sites the bigger boats were not allowed to visit so fewer people to share our time on each island; at several, we were the only boat at anchor.
L.C. Surrey

Everything was planned very well and all transport arrangements worked like clockwork. This was our first Naturetrek experience and we were slightly taken aback by the pace of the activities, running one after the other. However, we embraced all the experiences as we knew it was the best way to see everything there was to see both above and below the water. The crew of the Cachalote were highly professional, efficient, polite and patient at all times. The Chef should be Michelin starred as he performed magic in the Galley. David our guide was brilliant. His knowledge on the subject of all life forms, geology, geography and history of the Galapagos Islands was vast. The captain and the crew worked hard to take us round the Islands and transport us to and from the Islands. Sacha Lodge was equally as good. Klinger and Walter our guides were knowledgeable about all subjects related to the Amazon. The accommodation was excellent.
Mr & Mrs H. Surrey

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Extensions

Sacha Lodge extn

Sacha Lodge, located on the banks of a tranquil oxbow lake deep in the Amazon rainforest, is one of the best rainforest lodges in the world. Explore canopy towers and walkways, terra firma and flooded forest on foot and by dugout canoe. Choose from the hardcore birding option (over 600 species to go at!), or a general natural history theme looking at all wildlife.

3 days from £1,695

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Dates & Prices

2025

Departures Availability Cost

Mon 6th Jan – Sat 25th Jan 3 £9,295

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Flights:

Most Naturetrek tours include flight costs ex-UK. If flights are not included, we indicate that here.

Flights are included in the tour cost

Regional Departures:

On certain tours it is possible to depart from a regional airport (rather than London). If a regional departure is possible, we indicate that here.

Regional Departures are available. Call 01962733051

Land only cost:

The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.

£8,495

Room sharing options:

If a customer on this departure has already expressed an interest in sharing a room it will be flagged here. We will identify if there are sharing options for male, female or both.

Male sharing available, Female sharing available

Single Room Supplement:

Single Room Supplement.

£250

Mon 3rd Feb – Sat 22nd Feb 4 £9,295

Book Tour Show Details

Flights:

Most Naturetrek tours include flight costs ex-UK. If flights are not included, we indicate that here.

Flights are included in the tour cost

Regional Departures:

On certain tours it is possible to depart from a regional airport (rather than London). If a regional departure is possible, we indicate that here.

Regional Departures are available. Call 01962733051

Land only cost:

The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.

£8,495

Single Room Supplement:

Single Room Supplement.

£250

Mon 5th May – Sat 24th May SPACES £9,295

Book Tour Show Details

Flights:

Most Naturetrek tours include flight costs ex-UK. If flights are not included, we indicate that here.

Flights are included in the tour cost

Regional Departures:

On certain tours it is possible to depart from a regional airport (rather than London). If a regional departure is possible, we indicate that here.

Regional Departures are available. Call 01962733051

Land only cost:

The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.

£8,495

Room sharing options:

If a customer on this departure has already expressed an interest in sharing a room it will be flagged here. We will identify if there are sharing options for male, female or both.

Female sharing available

Single Room Supplement:

Single Room Supplement.

£250

2026

Departures Availability Cost

Mon 12th Jan – Sat 31st Jan SPACES £9,795

Book Tour Show Details

Flights:

Most Naturetrek tours include flight costs ex-UK. If flights are not included, we indicate that here.

Flights are included in the tour cost

Regional Departures:

On certain tours it is possible to depart from a regional airport (rather than London). If a regional departure is possible, we indicate that here.

Regional Departures are available. Call 01962733051

Land only cost:

The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.

£8,795

Single Room Supplement:

Single Room Supplement.

£275

Mon 9th Feb – Sat 28th Feb SPACES £9,795

Book Tour Show Details

Flights:

Most Naturetrek tours include flight costs ex-UK. If flights are not included, we indicate that here.

Flights are included in the tour cost

Regional Departures:

On certain tours it is possible to depart from a regional airport (rather than London). If a regional departure is possible, we indicate that here.

Regional Departures are available. Call 01962733051

Land only cost:

The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.

£8,795

Single Room Supplement:

Single Room Supplement.

£275

Mon 16th Nov – Sat 5th Dec SPACES £9,795

Book Tour Show Details

Flights:

Most Naturetrek tours include flight costs ex-UK. If flights are not included, we indicate that here.

Flights are included in the tour cost

Regional Departures:

On certain tours it is possible to depart from a regional airport (rather than London). If a regional departure is possible, we indicate that here.

Regional Departures are available. Call 01962733051

Land only cost:

The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.

£8,795

Room sharing options:

If a customer on this departure has already expressed an interest in sharing a room it will be flagged here. We will identify if there are sharing options for male, female or both.

Female sharing available

Single Room Supplement:

Single Room Supplement.

£275

Please note that cabin grades are subject to availability. We recommend phoning the office before booking to confirm that your preference is available.

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            [title] => Birdwatching
            [alias] => birds
            [description] => Birding Tours Led by Expert Naturalists
The majority of our wildlife tours focus primarily on birds, allowing us to offer a huge choice of bird holidays. On most of our birdwatching tours we aim to see a wide variety of species, while taking time to enjoy other wildlife as well as cultural highlights and architecture.
Naturetrek Birdwatching Tours
We have one of the largest selections of professionally organised, small group birdwatching holidays around the world and all of our birdwatching tours are accompanied by at least one professional ornithologist leader with detailed knowledge of the area.
The majority of our bird tours have a relaxed, flexible approach which allows more time for photography, detailed wildlife exploration, leisure time and the region’s people, culture, history and architecture, while allowing the group to see a wide range of bird species.

Here is a small selection of our many bird holidays:

Southern Morocco – an exploration of the birdlife in Morocco’s southern deserts, oases and mountains
The Camargue in Spring – a short break to enjoy the spring birds of the Rhône Delta and Camargue wetland
Wallcreepers & Cranes in Northern Spain – a 2-centre holiday focusing on Lammergeier, Wallcreepers, raptors, Cranes, bustards, sandgrouse and more!
Madeira & Desertas Islands – A Seabird Extravaganza! – a short break focusing on special breeding seabirds, including a night on the remote Destertas Islands
Peru – Macaws & Machu Picchu – searches for boobies, macaws and Inca Terns
Spain & Morocco: Birding on Two Continents! – watch the spectacular spring bird migration from both sides of the Straits of Gibraltar

Our Bargain Birdwatching Selection
Our Bargain Bird Tours are intensive birdwatching holidays suitable for the serious birder. They are led by expert English-speaking local guides (and not accompanied from the UK by a tour leader). You can expect a higher-paced tour and to spend long hours in the field.
 

Our specialist recommends...


"Try Coto Doñana & Extremadura for an excellent introduction to Europe's wetland and steppe birds. I would recommend our bargain holiday, 'Nepal – A Birdwatching Tour' for those interested in Siberian rarities and Ibisbill, while Costa Rica offers a chance to search for arguably the world's most beautiful bird, the Resplendent Quetzal."

Byron Palacios - Tour Leader

  
 
All Birdwatching Tours
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            [path] => tour-focus/wildlife-cruises
            [title] => Wildlife Cruise
            [alias] => wildlife-cruises
            [description] => Wildlife Cruise Holidays
The oceans are one of the last great wilderness areas left on our planet.  Travelling by sea on a nature cruise represents the best way to see many of the world’s wildlife spectacles, as there are still wildlife paradises that are accessible by sea but cannot yet be reached by air. 
Naturetrek wildlife cruises offer:

A range of cruising experiences, from exclusively chartered 50-berth expedition ships to smaller motor yachts & schooners
Arctic & Antarctic nature cruises in ships with specially strengthened hulls
Each voyage is accompanied by expert naturalists
Wide range of wildlife cruises from five continents

We have been running wildlife cruises for over 30 years and if your image of cruising is endless deck quoits or bingo, think again! A life on the ocean waves can be a permit to witness scenes of natural splendour that most people will only ever see on their television screens.
A selection of our most popular wildlife cruises:

Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands – Unique 2-week Galapagos nature cruise aboard a 16-berth schooner in search of the confiding birds, mammals & reptiles that inhabit these islands made so famous by Darwin
The Sub-Antartic Islands of New Zealand – Penguins, marine mammals & seabirds (Tailormade) 
Spitsbergen - Realm of the Polar Bear – Polar Bears, Walruses & seabirds
Baja California – Blue Whales, Sperm Whales, thousands of dolphins & other marine life, plus San Ignacio’s friendly Grey Whales
Kamchatka Peninsula – Pacific Ocean seabird colonies, spectacular volcanic scenery & over a dozen species of auks, plus Steller’s Sea Eagle, Siberian Rubythroats & much more (Tailormade)
Brahmaputra Cruise, India – Unique nature cruise visiting Kaziranga & other National Parks


Our specialist recommends...




"If you love whales and dolphins I’d recommend our Baja & Sea of Cortez nature cruise. The world’s largest concentration of cetaceans is found here, but book early as this tour sells out fast. I’d also suggest ‘Spitsbergen – Realm of the Polar Bear’ for a spectacular combination of wildlife and scenery.” 

Paul Stanbury - Operations Manager 

All Wildlife Cruises
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Tour Dates or Itinerary Don't Suit?

Allow our experts to create a private, customised itinerary with dates and prices to suit you.

Enquire

Prefer to Travel in a Private Group?

For any interested natural history club or society, we can arrange for a private departure of this tour.

Enquire

Tour Reports

Tour report - December 2014

Tour report - February 2014

Tour report - January 2013

Tour report - February 2012

Tour report - January 2012

Tour report - February 2011

Tour report - December 2008

Tour report - February 2008

Tour report - January 2008

Tour report - December 2007

Tour report - July 2007

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Why Naturetrek?

At Naturetrek we craft expertly-guided group and tailor-made wildlife holidays and cruises to all seven continents. On one of our holidays, you can be assured that our passionate team will enable you to experience and enjoy the best of the world's wildlife and natural spectacles in as comfortable and rewarding a manner as possible, caring as best we can for the environment in the process. We are proud to provide:

The widest choice of wildlife holidays worldwide
Tours managed and led by naturalists, for naturalists
Outstanding value and exceptional customer service

Furthermore, as a Naturetrek client, our office team are always to on hand to help you – so if you have any queries about your holiday, whether before or after you have booked, we will be delighted to answer them on the phone. Please just give our team a call!