This means that you will be able to enjoy Galapagos’ marvelous underwater worlds in comfort, relax with unlimited non-alcoholic drinks of your choice during downtime (virgin cocktails not included), and remain connected with family and friends all along the way from the convenience of the 2 computer stations in La Pinta’s library and WiFi available in public social areas. Better yet, you won’t have to spend an extra penny for any of these extra services!

Metropolitan Touring has been handling expert trips in South America since 1953, to destinations such as Ecuador, Peru, Argentina, and Chile. At this time, Galapagos tourism was comprised of just a few settlements almost too much a stretch to be called towns. As such, it wasn’t until interest started to rev up in the islands in the 1960’s that the company began offering trips to some of the first curious visitors.

Today, their modern fleet includes the 40-passenger La Pinta and Isabela II, and the 100-passenger Santa Cruz. On land in the Galapagos, Metropolitan Touring is also the proprietor of the celebrated Finch Bay Eco-Hotel, respected for its extensive environmentally friendly and sustainable practices, not to mention the picturesque beach found at its front doors.

Contact a Latin Excursions travel consultant today to get more information about Metropolitan Touring’s 60 year specials and promotions, including departure deals on board La Pinta, Isabela II, and Santa Cruz throughout the months of March, April, and May 2013.

The post Enjoy your Galapagos cruise details on the house! appeared first on Galapagos Excursions.

Updates in the National Geographic Endeavour’s maintenance schedule have opened up 2 unplanned Galapagos departure dates in 2013. Not only does this mean more chance for you to fit in your cruise this year, but the company is also offering an incredible buy-one-get-one special!

Bring a friend, a spouse, a family member, or another loved one along for the ride in order to take advantage of this spectacular 50% off deal. This is also an ideal trip for the whole family or a friendly reunion where with the purchase of one full priced cruise, a second person gets to travel for free, saving up to $4,990 per person.

The National Geographic Endeavour, with capacity for 100 guests, is one of the top vessels in the Galapagos Islands with trips that take you across the archipelago over a period of 10 days at a time. There are 7 categories of full service rooms with air conditioning, all basic amenities, and more. The cruise price includes all excursions, Zodiac and kayak explorations, snorkeling (wetsuits, masks, fins, and snorkel equipment), educational presentations, all meals, entrance fees, transfers, and the friendly service of an accommodating staff.

Reach out to one of Latin Excursions’ Travel Consultants today to book this limited time Galapagos cruise offer, as it is not promoted in any brochures or websites.

The post 50% off National Geographic Endeavour’s Surprise Departure Dates appeared first on Galapagos Excursions.

Opuntia Galapagos, the hotel group responsible for top quality properties such as Casa Opuntia (San Cristobal Island), Angermeyer Waterfront Inn (Santa Cruz Island), and Iguana Crossing (Isabela Island), is offering for a limited time 2 very special excursion opportunities for Summer 2013.

From June 25 to July 1, take advantage of Opuntia’s 7-Day Multiactive Adventure as expert guides take you to experience the Galapagos while kayaking, hiking, biking, snorkeling, and more on these wonderfully unpredictable islands. The program will offer close encounters with famous Galapagos wildlife, as well as see volcanoes and underwater kingdoms few get the chance to. As well, you will be arranged with stays at Opuntia properties depending on the location of the activities.
Opuntia’s 7-Day Multiactive Adventure

Special promotional price is available only for the June 25-July 1 trip. However, Opuntia’s Multiactive Adventures also have 7 day departures for March 15, April 2, May 11, July 16, August 6, September 17, October 15, November 6, and December 3, 2013.

Highlights:

• Sea kayak with sharks, marine iguanas, sea turtles, and sea lions.
• Walk among giant Galapagos tortoises in their natural habitat.
• Snorkel with colorful, multiple species of tropical fish, beautiful rays, and non-aggressive sharks (possibly including the giant hammerheads).
• Hike the rim of the 2nd largest volcano caldera in the world and discover extraordinary lava formations.
• Travel the only exclusive mountain biking route on Isabela Island.
• Relax on sandy beaches with sea lions and marine iguanas!
• Every step, peddle, and paddle of your journey is expertly led by top of the line adventure and nature guides.
• Enjoy the exceptional service, waterfront location, decor, privacy, and world class dining at the finest boutique hotels in the Galapagos.
• Program provides direct benefits to the local communities.

Opuntia’s 5-Day Wildlife Discovery

If your interest is more focused specifically on Galapagos wildlife, then be sure to take advantage of Opuntia’s 5-Day Wildlife Discovery trips. These journeys take you to get up close and personal with your favorite species, allowing for eye-to-eye friendships. As you walk, swim, snorkel, and zoom through the various natural habitats, you will see both land and water animals in what is essentially a fenceless zoo.

The special promotional price applies for all departures that begin on dates April 24, April 28, May 22, June 9, June 19, July 3, July 21, August 4, August 25, August 28, September 1,  September 25, October 9, October 23, November 3, November 20, December 8, and December 18, 2013.

Highlights:

Swim with sea turtles, sea lions, penguins, sharks, rays, and countless fish.

• Learn about evolution as you meet finches, mockingbirds, boobies, penguins, endemic plants, giant tortoises, land iguanas, and marine iguanas.
• Hike an endemic forest of scalesia trees, a long-lost relative of daisy flowers.
• Relax on sandy beaches amongst sea lions and marine iguanas.
• Every step of your journey is expertly led by top-rated naturalist guides.
• Enjoy the exceptional service, waterfront location, decor, privacy, and world class dining of the finest boutique hotels in the Galapagos.
• Support local communities through this eco-friendly, sustainable program.

Reach out to one of Latin Excursions’ expert travel consultants today to start planning your thrilling vacation!

The post Opuntia Galapagos Summer Specials appeared first on Galapagos Excursions.

This means that you will be able to enjoy Galapagos’ marvelous underwater worlds in comfort, relax with unlimited non-alcoholic drinks of your choice during downtime (virgin cocktails not included), and remain connected with family and friends all along the way from the convenience of the 2 computer stations in La Pinta’s library and WiFi available in public social areas. Better yet, you won’t have to spend an extra penny for any of these extra services!

Metropolitan Touring has been handling expert trips in South America since 1953, to destinations such as Ecuador, Peru, Argentina, and Chile. At this time, Galapagos tourism was comprised of just a few settlements almost too much a stretch to be called towns. As such, it wasn’t until interest started to rev up in the islands in the 1960’s that the company began offering trips to some of the first curious visitors.

Today, their modern fleet includes the 40-passenger La Pinta and Isabela II, and the 100-passenger Santa Cruz. On land in the Galapagos, Metropolitan Touring is also the proprietor of the celebrated Finch Bay Eco-Hotel, respected for its extensive environmentally friendly and sustainable practices, not to mention the picturesque beach found at its front doors.

Contact a Latin Excursions travel consultant today to get more information about Metropolitan Touring’s 60 year specials and promotions, including departure deals on board La Pinta, Isabela II, and Santa Cruz throughout the months of March, April, and May 2013.

The post Enjoy your Galapagos cruise details on the house! appeared first on Galapagos Excursions.

Take advantage of a Galapagos cruise aboard the M/V Eclipse this May 2013 alongside professional photographer Jonathan R. Green to learn how to take unforgettable photos of landscapes and wildlife.

Whether photography for you is a side hobby, budding interest, or full time or professional interest, the 48-passenger Eclipse yacht’s upcoming Photo Expedition trip May 25 to June 1, 2013 will surely teach you something new. Ocean Adventures and Latin Excursions invite you on board the Eclipse this Spring to join award-winning wildlife photographer Jonathan R. Green as he demonstrates his best tips and tricks for capturing that fast-moving frigate bird or that baby sea lion who just won’t stay still.

The photography workshops will take place on board as well as in the field during your Galapagos cruise on the Eclipse. Learn how to best make use of the natural sunlight, how to time your snapshots, how to frame your images to generate interest, how to best take in the magnitude of the Galapagos’ magnificent landscapes, and much more. Green’s lessons cater to every skill level.

Contact a Latin Excursions travel consultant to book this unique educational journey aboard the M/V Eclipse today, as spaces are running out quickly.

Photography enthusiasts should also look forward to the next Photo Expedition, scheduled for August 17 to 24, 2013.

We can’t wait to see your shots!

The post Professional Photography Lessons on board the Eclipse, May 2013 appeared first on Galapagos Excursions.

	The rich natural and geographic diversity of the Galapagos is the result of millions of years of volcanic eruptions and formations. Whether it was sunrise, raining, or the middle of the day with beating down sun, the San Cristobal Island’s subtle but expansive views were always sights to behold.
	Our days were jam packed! When we were not eating or snorkeling or laughing, the crew was getting us ready for hiking! Even at 9 in the morning, the sun was unbearably hot at Punta Pitt; be sure to bring lots of water and sun protection. Getting into the deep of the land makes you realize how strong and powerful Mother Nature really is.
	We sure walked a long way! After a wet landing on the beach (meaning you step off the dinghy and right into the water in order to disembark), we hiked up to a pass that allowed us this panorama. Wouldn’t you want to just set up a tent and spend the night listening to the lapping Pacific waves and gazing at the stars?
	Going to the Galapagos is like visiting an open zoo with no fences or cages. Because the animals have lived millions of years without knowing humans, they never developed a fear of them. Sea lions will swim right up to your goggles, and birds won’t budget even if you are just inches from their feet! Too bad we couldn’t bring back this adorable baby sea lion back on board the Ocean Spray with us, but I’m sure he preferred the amazing waters of Cerro Brujo Beach instead.
	Dinghy rides were some of the most fascinating excursions because the small boats can take you into bays and nooks where the catamaran couldn’t venture. From above the water, it is possible to see giant marine turtles gliding through the water, blue footed boobies waddling around looking for food, sealions yelling at each other, and so much more.
	Floreana is famous as a popular spot for nesting marine turtles, which we indeed saw at a hidden beach on the other side of the point. This sunset over a lagoon at Cormorant Point on Floreana Island was a most beautiful way to close out our 4 day cruise, which was way too short!

The post Galapagos Photo Post: Cruising the Eastern Islands appeared first on Galapagos Excursions.

Isabella II Yacht

The popular, first-class Isabella II yacht to the Galápagos recently got a facelift, making it an even more appealing option if you are looking to travel to the Galápagos Islands in style. Improvements include an enlarged gift shop, a re-sized business center with an extensive book collection, and a complete interior decoration revamp across the main deck.

Distinguished interior decorator, Diego Artera, who also designed the inside of Casa Gangotena, added upgraded details such as enhanced lighting, darker woods, and soothing, earth-tone fabrics throughout the main deck, contributing to an unmistakably more relaxed and sophisticated feel throughout.

Now is the time to book your trip to the Galápagos aboard the Isabella II yacht. Choose from one of our five-day, four-night or seven-day, six-night naturalist itineraries aboard this 40-passenger luxury boat and secure your dream vacation to the Galápagos today!

The post Isabella II Yacht’s Main Deck Upgraded appeared first on Galapagos Excursions.

Led by Ecuador’s Minister of the Environment, Marcela Aguiñaga, this movement has the goal of educating people about the actual pollution of beaches and oceans of Ecuador, while creating a consistent protection system for the coasts.

The results were extremely positive, as more than 5,000 pounds of garbage were collected by the Galapagos Islands residents with the help of this campaign, which celebrates the Day of Clean Beaches that was created back in 1991. Now more than 121 countries have joined the initiative.

Over 400 people participated in the collection, and now the main goal is to classify the garbage in order to start a recycling campaign as well. Initiatives like this proves that Galapagos Islands residents are aware that they live in a true paradise and that they are committed to preserving  it in a tangible way.

Contact us for more information on our luxury cruises or customized family trips to the Galapagos Islands, and see for yourself why conserving the beaches of the Galapagos is important.

The post Galapagos Islands Residents Join World Movement for Clean Beaches appeared first on Galapagos Excursions.

Blue-footed Boobies are, without a doubt, one of the trademark species of the Galapagos Islands. Now that a new colony of this unique bird species has been discovered on the islands, we have another reason to visit the Galapagos Islands.

This new colony of Blue-footed Boobies is located near the beach of La Millonaria and the Galapagos National Park is currently studying them to determine their age. The first results of the investigations have made it clear that there are more than 362 new birds and the majority of them are adults.

Traditionally, Blue-footed Boobies inhabit the islands of Española, Fernandina, Floreana, Genovesa, Isabela, Pinzón, and from now on, they can be found on Baltra Island as well. A couple of years ago, the local conservation authorities started a program to help restore the population of Blue-footed Boobies on   Baltra Island and part of this  process was to remove the cats and goats that were on the island. Now the boobies can live there without the risks posed to them and their offspring by the cats and goats.

So if you were waiting for another reason to the visit the Galapagos Islands, we can now say the playful Blue-footed Boobies are waiting for tourists from all over the world to visit them in their new home on Baltra Island.

Contact us to arrange the perfect trip to the Galapagos Islands for you and your family, whether you prefer a luxury cruise or a land-based tour.

The post New Blue-Footed Booby Colony Found in Galapagos appeared first on Galapagos Excursions.

Explore Galapagos by sea and by land on this exciting new trip that combines a 4 or 5 day cruise on board La Pinta with a several day stay at Finch Bay Eco Hotel. Begin the trip with two nights in Quito at the city’s top boutique hotel – Casa Gangotena – overlooking Plaza San Francisco in the historic colonial district of the city. Then fly to the Galapagos Islands to begin your cruise on the exclusive La Pinta yacht. With space for just 48 guests, La Pinta is the perfect midsized yacht for exploring the Galapagos. You’ll travel in style, with spacious cabins with large windows, a dining salon featuring Ecuadorian & international cuisine, comfortable lounge & bar, library, fitness center, al fresco dining area & Jacuzzi; there are sea kayaks & snorkel equipment free of charge for guests, and wetsuits are available for rent. Guides are some of the best in the Galapagos, and service on board is excellent.

La Pinta yacht.
La Pinta offers two Galapagos cruise itineraries – a 4 day/3 night and 5 day/4 night option. The 4 day cruise takes guests to highlights of the Eastern Islands, like Española & San Cristóbal Islands. The 5 day cruise visits Northern Islands, like Genovesa, Santiago & Bartolomé.

Finch Bay Eco Hotel
After the cruise, disembark and begin the next phase of the adventure – a three night stay at Finch Bay Eco Hotel. Outside the busy town of Puerto Ayora, the hotel offers guests a peaceful retreat for relaxing after a busy cruise. The hotel has a pool and beach, and offers a variety of multisport activities. Finch Bay has six ocean view suites, as well as Garden View Rooms; book early to guarantee a suite. Guests on the 5 day/4 night La Pinta cruise would enjoy a visit to Tortuga Bay, a popular sea turtle nesting site and fantastic spot for snorkeling, while at Finch Bay. Guests on the 4 day/3 night La Pinta cruise would enjoy a day trip to nearby South Plazas Island on one of Finch Bay’s new day trip yachts.

Ideal For: Families, couples or older travelers.

Ideas for extending your trip: Several days exploring the Amazon from a jungle lodge base; drive through the majestic Andes & stay at traditional haciendas; continue on to Peru and the legendary Machu Picchu.

Pricing:
4 day/3 night cruise, Finch Bay & mainland services – From: US$ 5,995 per person, based on double accommodations; excludes domestic & international airfare, and Galapagos National Park fees.

5 day/4 night cruise, Finch Bay & mainland services – From: US$ 6,515 per person, based on double accommodations; excludes domestic & international airfare, and Galapagos National Park fees.

Contact Us to assist you with planning a trip

The post Combine a boat and hotel combination in the Galapagos appeared first on Galapagos Excursions.