Living with Nature, Galápagos Pre-voyage Extension

Arrive in Guayaquil, where you are met for the short ride to the Hotel del Parque, a 44-room Relais & Châteaux hotel set along the river in lush tropical gardens.

Fly to Baltra in the center of Galápagos, a little world unto itself in the Tropical Pacific. You'll be welcomed by a local naturalist upon arrival, and you'll travel together over the island of Santa Cruz, crossing through several ecological zones, to Puerto Ayora, where you'll check into your hotel. Receive your first introduction to the highlands and sample local food at a highlands farm. (B,L,D)

You'll have the full day today to meet with local friends working in a variety of fields, with your schedule depending on your guide for what and who is available today. You will have an in-depth visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station, whose work is supported by the Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic Fund. Lunch and dinner out in the town, featuring products from local providers. Option for scuba diving with a local partner (at additional expense and by prior reservation). (B,L,D)

Rest, relax and explore this morning, choosing from many options. Later head up to the highlands, and continue to the pier, where a Zodiac awaits us to bring us to the ship for lunch, and the many adventures ahead aboard National Geographic Islander II.

* If you are an experienced scuba diver, ask about the dive packet and information about reserving day trips to nearby intermediate and advanced diving sites with a local partner. Dive trips are from about 8:00-12:00 and you would later rejoin the group. Reservations made directly with the local provider are pending approval of your application with experience (intermediate or advanced) and at additional cost. (B,L,D)