DETAILS
Join us for this extraordinary First-Class voyage and share in the wonder of Charles Darwin’s revolutionary observations of this remarkable world unto itself. Experience the astounding biodiversity of the UNESCO-inscribed Galápagos archipelago, preserved much as it was when Spanish colonists arrived in 1535. Home to unique animals, reptiles, birds, plants and aquatic life, Darwin’s “living laboratory of evolution” continues to inspire the thrill of original discovery in every visitor.
- Pricing from
- $13,995
Reserve early & SAVE up to $7,530!
- Trip Type
- Group Travel Tour, International Ocean & Sea Voyages
- Departure Dates
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Nov 8, 2024 - Nov 17, 2024
With state-of-the-art technology designed for the Galápagos Islands, the Silver Origin is the most elegant, sustainable ship to explore this unique ecosystem. Discover the spellbinding beauty of these islands in luxury with on board amenities not found anywhere else. Immerse yourself in the rare flora and fauna of the Galápagos with the interactive Basecamp hub of discovery. In addition to the included Zodiac excursions and marine activities, enjoy gourmet farm-to-table Ecuadorian recipes made with the freshest local ingredients, accompanied by regional wines in the ship’s restaurant and grill. Complimentary alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, 24-hour in-Suite service, and unlimited Wi-Fi access are also available throughout the cruise.
Six-Star, all-Suite accommodations feature an ocean-view veranda, butler service, a fresh water purification system, private bathroom and large wardrobe with a personal safe. Silver and Veranda Suites offer two twin beds or one queen bed. Medallion, Royal, Grand, and Owner’s Suites offer two twin beds or one king bed.
Quito, Ecuador – November 6 to 8, 2024 (Tour Begins: November 6)
Explore the UNESCO treasures, rich indigenous traditions and contemporary verve of Quito, South America’s most beguiling capital city. Walk the streets of the Old Town, where Spanish colonial grandeur and pre‑Columbian rituals coalesce in a panoply of Baroque cathedrals, ornate palaces and lively plazas. Uncover Quito’s artistic soul along La Ronda, one of the city’s oldest streets, and visit a local chocolatier. Experience the Middle of the World and stand with one foot in each hemisphere. Accommodations are for three nights in the five-star JW Marriott Hotel Quito.
Price per person, based on double occupancy: $875
Price per person, based on single occupancy: $1,095
Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley – November 16 to 22, 2024 (Tour Ends: November 22)
Explore Peru’s UNESCO-inscribed archaeological treasures on this tour featuring Machu Picchu, Cuzco, the Sacred Valley and Lima. Journey by train to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, cradled by the soaring Andes Mountains. In the historical Inca capital of Cuzco, see the stone fortress of Sacsayhuamán and architecture that provides a mix of pre‑Columbian and colonial influences. Admire the spectacular sites of the Sacred Valley, including the fortress of Ollantaytambo, which stands as a lasting testimony to the Inca Empire. Cap off the journey in Lima with a tour of its historical center. Enjoy deluxe accommodations in Urubamba, Machu Picchu, Cuzco and Lima.
Price per person, based on double occupancy: $3,685
Price per person, based on single occupancy: $4,675
A non-refundable administrative fee of $300 per person will apply for all cancellations received more than 7 days after booking and before other fees take effect at 120 days:
120 days $300 per person admin fee after 7-day grace period from booking
120 – 91 days 25% of full invoice fare
90 – 61 days 50% of full invoice fare
60 – 31 days 75% of full invoice fare
30 – 0 days 100% of full invoice fare
Separate airfare Terms & Conditions apply
TOUR MAP
ITINERARY
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day 1
Depart Home City/ Quito, Ecuador
Depart home city and fly to Quito. Upon arrival, transfer to the JW Marriot Quito hotel.
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day 2
Quito/San Cristóbal, Galápagos Islands/Embark
Fly to San Cristóbal to embark the Silver Origin. San Cristóbal, one of the oldest islands in the archipelago, emerged from the sea approximately 2.4 million years ago. After boarding, settle in your stateroom; then gather for a Captain’s Welcome Reception at the end of the day.
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day 3
Genovesa Island
Anchor in sight of Genovesa Island, home to the largest colony of red‑footed boobies. Here, nutrient‑rich, cold waters provide excellent nesting sites for large bird colonies. Ride aboard a panga (an inflatable Zodiac) to shore and ascend Prince Phillip’s Steps to take in impressive views at the top. Expect to see colonies of Nazca boobies, frigatebirds and storm petrels during your walk. Next, discover the horseshoe‑shaped Darwin Bay, where a beautiful white‑sand beach makes a cozy playground for snoozing sea lions and scampering Sally Lightfoot crabs. You may see frigatebirds, red‑footed boobies, herons, finches and mockingbirds, which are abundant on the island. Continue your adventure by snorkeling or swimming, sharing the bay with green sea turtles, sharks, rays and schools of colorful fish.
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day 4
North Seymour Island/ Santiago Island
North Seymour Island was named after Lord Hugh Seymour, a British Royal Navy officer. Embark on a guided nature hike across the rocky landscape, marveling at myriad blue-footed boobies, magnificent frigatebirds and land iguanas, camouflaged against the arid scrub. Back on board, settle in for lunch while cruising to Sullivan Bay, located on Santiago Island. Get a glimpse into the island’s storied geologic history while strolling by surreal rock formations and pahoehoe lava flows, slow-moving lava with low viscosity and a billowy surface. Sullivan Bay is also known for its expansive coral‑sand beach and clear waters, where sea turtles and tropical fish flourish.
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day 5
Fernandina Island/ Isabela Island
Young Fernandina Island is one of the world’s most volcanically active spots and, since the island is free of introduced species, it is also one of Earth’s most pristine island ecosystems. While exploring Mangle Point, look for evidence of black lava flows and admire the high density of marine iguanas, sea lions, Sally Lightfoot crabs, hawks and penguins. It is also one of the few places in the Galápagos to spy the flightless cormorant, an unusual bird who forgot how to fly. Continue to spectacular Isabela Island to photograph lava flows and inviting turquoise lagoons. Isabela’s first visitors were pirates and whalers, who used the island to restock supplies and even hide treasure. During your panga ride to Moreno Point, watch for curious penguins and shorebirds. A guided hike passes by mangroves, crystal tide pool and green lagoons, where you may see pink flamingoes and white-cheeked pintails. Isabela also offers sanctuary to more wild giant tortoises than all of the other Galápagos Islands combined!
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day 6
Santa Cruz Island/ Santa Fé Island
Spend part of the day on Santa Cruz Island. Travel from the arid, sunny coast to the mist-shrouded highlands. Here, free-roaming giant tortoises live in their natural environment. After lunch on board, cruise near the picturesque bay of Santa Fé. This unique landscape provides a habitat for Opuntia cacti and endemic Barrington land iguanas with their eye-catching yellowish‑orange coloration. You may see these peculiar creatures basking themselves in the sun or munching on the blossoms of prickly pear cactus. After exploring on foot, cool off with a swim or snorkel. Friendly sea lions approach snorkelers while turtles, sharks, sting rays and colorful fish can be seen.
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day 7
Española Island
Española Island, the southernmost island of the archipelago, is the breeding site of the unique waved albatrosses. You might witness these special birds launching themselves into the air currents from the high cliffs. Visit Gardner Bay, a sprawling stretch of pristine white sand, and Suarez Point, where albatrosses fly overhead.
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day 8
San Cristóbal Island
The Galapaguera de Cerro Colorado is vital in safeguarding the preservation of the endangered Galápagos giant tortoise. See baby tortoises in protected breeding enclosures and adult tortoises roaming freely. Learn about the center’s remarkable conservation and research efforts as well as the repatriation programs that are saving subspecies of tortoises from extinction. Continue to the secluded Cerro Brujo, an eroded tuff cone that is also known as Witch Hill. The area teems with wildlife and visitors will enjoy blue‑footed boobies, great blue herons and finches. The calm waters offer opportunities to see sea turtles, rays, sea lions and tropical fish. Enjoy the Captain’s Farewell Reception at the end of the day and raise a toast to your epic Galápagos adventure!
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day 9 & 10
San Cristóbal, Galápagos/Guayaquil/ Return Home
Disembark the ship at San Cristóbal and fly to Guayaquil. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure before an overnight flight back to your home city.
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