Central and South America

Galápagos Islands | Nature and Wildlife with Wildstock Photography

aboard M/Y Tip Top IV
Date:
Feb 28 - Mar 9, 2024
Duration:
11 Days
Price:
From $6,375
Interests:
Photography
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Galápagos sea lion
Marine iguana
Red-footed Booby
Galápagos giant tortoise
Pahoehoe lava flow
Punta Espinosa on Fernandina Island
Flightless Cormorant
Galápagos land iguana
Blue-footed Booby
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About this trip

With its inspirational beauty, the Galápagos Islands offer a fascinating variety of landscapes, ecosystems, and wildlife that can only be captured through a lens. Cruise the archipelago aboard the M/Y Tip Top IV with Reinier Munguia of Wildstock Photography; explore and experience the wondrous islands while photographing its natural elements. From steep cliffs and volcanic craters to sandy beaches and tranquil lagoons, the scenic landscapes are home to interesting fauna including land and marine iguanas, lava lizards, sea lions, sea turtles, sharks, Blue-footed Boobies and Flightless Cormorants. Join this 11-day journey with incredible photographic opportunities while witnessing and admiring the awe-inspiring nature.
PLEASE NOTE: Cruise itineraries are subject to change without prior notice due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g. weather) or at the discretion of the captain, guide, or the Galápagos National Park.

Highlights

  • Capture images of the Galápagos' iconic wildlife, including Blue-footed Boobies, marine iguanas, Darwin’s finches, Flightless Cormorants, and Galápagos Penguins.
  • Snorkel in the beautiful Pacific waters of the archipelago to spot endemic marine species like sea turtles, sea lions, reef sharks, an abundance of fish, and marine invertebrates.
  • Discover fascinating geological history while trekking volcanoes and lava fields.
  • Take part in a centuries-old tradition by leaving a postcard in the barrel at Post Office Bay.
  • Photograph the impressive orchids and other plant collections at the Guayaquil Botanical Garden on Ecuador's mainland.

Meet your leader

Reinier Munguia

Reinier Munguia is a commercial and nature photographer with a strong education and conservation vision. His work has appeared in several publications including textbooks and magazines. His passion for nature has taken him to become an advocate for causes related to the protection of species. Educating people about nature has become his most important goal. Reinier has also taken on the role of vice-president of education for the Lake Region Audubon, where he has been doing multiple presentations as well as leading conservation and outreach programs. Over the years he has presented at large nature and photography events such as the Space Coast Birding Festival, The Big “O” and the First Coast Nature & Photo Fest among others. Wanting to explore more of the natural world has led Reinier to lead photography and birding trips though the United States, as well as other destinations including Costa Rica, Ecuador and Puerto Rico. As the President and teacher of the Polk County Camera Club, he has been educating amateur photographers not only in the proper use of their equipment but also in the ability to self-evaluate their work.

Land Cost

$6,375

Per person

About this price

Land cost only. Does not include round-trip airfare to and from destination.

Single room supplement $1800

What makes us different

Wildlife up-close

Enjoy up-close observation of the behaviors and interactions of wildlife in their native habitats

Expert guides

We take pride in hiring local guides who are carefully selected for their knowledge, sensitivity and skill in the field

Flight arrangements

We’re a full service travel provider and are happy to assist with making your flight arrangements if desired

Low stress travel planning

We take care of all the details so you know your trip will be smooth sailing

Sustainable travel

We believe travel should have a positive impact on the world. We are committed to maintaining responsible travel practices and partner with ClimateSafe to provide carbon offsetting.

Service anytime

Enjoy worry-free travel — our emergency line is monitored 24/7/365 so we can assist you if any problems arise while you’re traveling with us

AND MORE!

See all the reasons why you should travel with Holbrook

What makes us different

Daily Itinerary

Print Itinerary
Guayaquil
Upon arrival in Guayaquil you will be met and escorted to your hotel. Check in starts at 3 pm.
Hotel Oro Verde
Guayaquil
Your wonderful day in Guayaquil will be spent exploring gardens and natural areas surrounding this coastal city of Ecuador. On the way out of town, stop for a quick visit to Lineal Park, a small but charming park with ornamental and endemic species that are found in this region. Continue on to the Cerro Blanco Protected Forest, a 15-acre reserve within the tropical dry forest ecosystem of the Ecuadorian coast, located in the extreme southwest area of the Chongón-Colonche mountain range. The ecosystem of this lush native flora is home to 54 mammal species, 221 bird species, 8 amphibian species, and 12 reptile species. In addition, there are more than 700 species of vascular plants, 20% of which are endemic to the southwest of Ecuador. After your time in the reserve, have lunch at a typical restaurant, and then visit Jardín Botánico de Guayaquil. The garden sits on a hill overlooking the Guayas and Daule rivers. Development of the garden began in 1979, and it was opened to the public in 1989. There are approximately 324 plant species that can be observed in their natural habitat, as well as timber and fruit trees, ornamentals, and exotics. Orchids are the main attraction. Return to your hotel; dinner is on your own.
Breakfast-Lunch- included
Hotel Oro Verde
Galápagos
Fly from mainland Ecuador to Baltra Island. After boarding M/Y Tip Top IV, attend your first orientation and have a light snack. After lunch, explore the coast and the interior of North Seymour Island, a low, flat island that was uplifted from the sea by underground seismic activity. Look for Blue-footed Boobies, marine iguanas, pelicans, frigatebirds, shorebirds, sea lions, and endemic palo santo trees. *Note: Cruise itineraries are subject to change without prior notice due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g. weather) or at the discretion of the captain, guide, or the Galápagos National Park.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Tip Top IV
Galápagos
After breakfast, land at Darwin Bay on Genovesa Island to walk and observe frigatebirds, herons, mockingbirds, boobies, shorebirds, sea turtles, marine iguanas, and other wildlife. There will be time for those who would like to swim, snorkel, or kayak. Return to the boat for a delicious lunch. Later in the afternoon, go ashore at the natural stone staircase of El Barranco (Prince Philips's Steps) to observe the interesting lives of the birds here. Tonight, learn about conservation efforts to protect the islands.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Tip Top IV
Galápagos
After breakfast, visit Puerto Egas (James Bay) on Santiago Island to walk and observe sponges, snails, hermit crabs, a variety of shore birds, barnacles, the endemic four-eyed blenny, marine iguanas, and sea lions. This afternoon, travel to Espumilla Beach, a brown-sand beach that's an important site for nesting sea turtles. Also look for land birds like Yellow Warblers, Darwin's finches, and Galápagos Flycatchers. Follow a trail that leads through a palo santo forest and behind the beach to arrive at a saltwater lagoon, where flamingos are sometimes seen. Later navigate around Caleta Bucanero (Buccaneer Cove), an area of steep cliffs and dark beaches. This was a popular place for 17th and 18th century buccaneers to careen their vessels, and the cliffs and pinnacle are used as nesting areas by several species of seabirds.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Tip Top IV
Galápagos
After breakfast, take a panga ride around Punta Vicente Roca on Isabela Island to observe sea lions, marine iguanas, Blue-footed and Nazca Boobies, and Flightless Cormorants. There will be time for those who would like to swim and/or snorkel. In the afternoon, land at Punta Espinoza on Fernandina Island, home to a large colony of sea lions, as well as marine iguanas, Flightless Cormorants, and lava cactus. Return to the yacht for dinner and your nightly orientation.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Tip Top IV
Galápagos
After breakfast, explore Tagus Cove, which sits between the shoulders of two volcanic craters that protect it from the open sea; look for Galápagos Penguins, marine iguanas, sea lions, Flightless Cormorants, and Blue-footed Boobies. In the afternoon, a panga boat ride around the islets of Elizabeth Bay should afford sightings of marine iguanas, sea turtles, seabirds, shorebirds, herons, Galápagos Penguins, and Blue-footed Boobies.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Tip Top IV
Galápagos
After breakfast, disembark on Isabela Island at Urbina Bay, a coral area at the base of Alcedo Volcano with land iguanas, Flightless Cormorants, and giant tortoises. Return to the yacht for lunch. This afternoon sail to Punta Moreno. Walk along coastal lagoons located among petrified lava flows where different types of birds can be seen. The trail leads to a panoramic view of the island's famous Sierra Negra and Cerro Azul volcanoes, as well as the highest part of nearby Fernandina Island. Return to the yacht for dinner and nightly orientation.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Tip Top IV
Galápagos
This morning, land on the green beach at Floreana Island's Cormorant Point and walk inland to a brackish lagoon to see American Flamingoes and shorebirds. Continue walking to La Picona, a beautiful white-sand beach that serves as an important nesting site for Galápagos green sea turtles. At the start of the year, turtles come ashore at night to dig nests and lay their eggs; by April and May the hatchlings begin to emerge from the sand and make their perilous journey to the sea. Head back to the green beach to enjoy swimming and snorkeling among reef fish and sea lions. This afternoon, disembark on the beach at Post Office Bay and follow a short trail to its historical mail barrel site. In the 18th century, British whalers placed a wooden barrel here to use as an informal post office; today, visitors continue the tradition by leaving their own postcards in the barrel for fellow travelers to carry to their destination. Continue to Baroness Viewpoint, named after the Baroness Eloise von Wagner, who once lived here. Enjoy the beautiful landscape and observe the ruins of her house.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Tip Top IV
Guayaquil
Today, return to the Baltra airport for your flight back to Guayaquil. Upon arrival, you will be met and taken to your hotel. There will be time this afternoon to explore your surroundings and perhaps take a stroll along the Malecón boardwalk before gathering for an early farewell dinner at the hotel. Depending on your international flight schedule, you will either be transferred to the airport this evening or tomorrow morning.
Breakfast-Dinner included
Hotel Oro Verde
Assuming your departure was not the night before, this morning you will be transferred to the Guayaquil International Airport for your flight(s) home. Check out is at 12 pm.
Breakfast- included
Land Cost

$6,375

Per person

About this price

Land cost only. Does not include round-trip airfare to and from destination.

Single room supplement $1800

What's Included
  • Accommodations with private bathrooms
  • Activities and meals as mentioned in itinerary
  • Arrival and departure transfers based on individual flight schedules
  • Water refill station during transfers
  • Carbon Offset
  • Full time guide per region for the duration of your program
  • Galapagos National Park fees
  • INGALA card
  • Internal flights relevant to itinerary
  • Non alcoholic beverage with meals
  • Private transportation and driver for the duration of the program
  • Snorkel gear
What's Not Included
  • International airfare
  • Items of personal nature
  • Tips
  • Travel Insurance
  • Trip cancellation coverage
Pricing Details
Cost is based on a minimum of 8 participants in double occupancy.

A $1000 per person deposit and enrollment form is due to hold your space on this trip. This deposit is refundable 180 days prior to departure excluding a $200 cancellation fee. Cancellations after this date are non refundable.

Holbrook Travel strongly recommends the purchase of travel protection for medical emergencies while traveling and to protect your investment. Please note the purchase of Cancel for Any Reason Coverage or to exclude pre-existing conditions with Trip Cancellation coverage may require policy purchase within 10-14 days of your initial deposit, depending upon the provider.

Single room supplement $1800


Final payment due date: November 25, 2023

Travel Info

Print Travel Info

Entry & Exit Requirements

U.S. citizens must have a valid passport to enter Ecuador. Passports must be valid for at least six months after the date of departure.

For visits fewer than 90 days, visas will be issued upon arrival in Ecuador. Tourists may be required to provide evidence of return or onwards travel.

If you are not traveling with a U.S. passport, please check with the Embassy of Ecuador for the requirements based on your nationality.

Health Information

IMMUNIZATIONS

The Centers for Disease Control recommends that all travelers be up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccine, varicella (chicken pox) vaccine, and your yearly flu shot before every trip.

There are no vaccinations required for entry into Ecuador (unless you are traveling from Brazil, Democratic Republic of the Congo, or Uganda, in which case proof of yellow fever vaccine is required).

Though not required for entry, the CDC recommends inoculation against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid for most unvaccinated travelers to Ecuador.

Please consult your physician for additional information and recommendations based on your individual circumstances.

MALARIA

Malaria is not known to be present in Guayaquil or in the Galápagos Islands. If you are concerned about malaria prevention, please consult your physician.

Other Insect-borne Illnesses

Other insect-borne illnesses are known to occur on mainland Ecuador, including dengue fever, leishmaniasis, Zika virus, and others. The CDC recommends that travelers to Ecuador protect themselves against insect bites: Cover exposed skin with lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants and use an insect repellent containing an active ingredient like DEET or picaridin. Apply sunscreen first, followed by the repellent (preferably 20 minutes later).

As a precaution, the CDC advises women who are pregnant to consider postponing travel to any area where Zika virus transmission is ongoing.

SEA SICKNESS

If you’re prone to feeling queasy, we suggest you consult your physician for advice on the best ways to prevent motion sickness. We recommend that you avoid showering when the boat is in motion and remain cautious of activities while passing through rocky waters.

SUN EXPOSURE

The effects of the sun can be damaging to the eyes and skin. Spending time outdoors exposes you to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, even on cloudy days. To protect yourself from the sun, use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15, protect skin with clothing, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and drink plenty of fluids.

PHYSICAL FITNESS REQUIREMENTS

Visitors to the Galápagos Islands should be in good health and capable of walking over rocky, uneven, and potentially slippery terrain. Regardless of your physical stamina, bringing a walking stick will help maintain your balance.

Resources

Print Resources

Vessel

About the M/Y Tip Top IV

Video: Galápagos Fitness Information

Video: Snorkeling in the Galapagos

Suggested Packing List

Everyone has personal preferences when it comes to packing; for this reason, the information below is offered as a general guide and not a definitive list. You know yourself best: Use your discretion and pack what you think will serve you, based on your personal preferences and specific itinerary.

You may find many of these items in our Gear Store.

CLOTHING

Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable for most activities. The atmosphere onboard the yacht is very casual and special attire is not required during meal times (e.g. shorts and T-shirts are appropriate). Though not necessary, you may wish to bring one or two slightly nicer, though still casual, outfits (e.g. sundress, polo shirt) for dinners out in Guayaquil.

Bring enough clothing suitable for the length of your program. Pack clothing that can be worn in layers to adapt to weather changes throughout the day.

The yacht does not offer laundry services. In an effort to preserve onboard water supplies, travelers are asked to refrain from handwashing clothes. You will be able to hang bathing suits and clothing to dry on clotheslines on the top deck.

  • A combination of short-sleeved and lightweight, long-sleeved shirts for sun and insect protection
  • Shorts
  • Lightweight, quick-drying long pants for sun and insect protection
  • Undergarments
  • Sleepwear
  • Lightweight jacket or sweater/sweatshirt
  • 1-2 bathing suit(s)
  • Socks
  • Shoes – You’ll likely want at least one pair of comfortable, closed-toe walking or hiking shoes with good ankle support, suitable for walking on rocky and uneven terrain. In addition, many travelers opt for a pair of sturdy sport-strap sandals (e.g. Keens, Tevas, or similar) and/or casual flip-flops or sandals. A pair of aqua socks, reef walkers, or water shoes is also recommended for wet landings and snorkeling from shore. Note: The M/Y Tip Top IV does not allow the same shoes used during island excursions to be worn onboard. Participants can either wear socks or have a separate pair of flip-flops, tennis shoes, or boat shoes to wear while on the yacht.
  • Lightweight rain jacket, hooded poncho, and/or windbreaker
  • Visor or wide-brimmed sun hat
  • Bandana, scarf, or neck gaiter
  • Wetsuit (shorty wetsuits are available to rent, but you may prefer your own)

Personal toiletries

Pack toiletries based on your personal preferences and habits. Below are just a few recommendations to keep in mind.

  • Shampoo, conditioner, lotion, deodorant/antiperspirant, etc. – Note: In the Galápagos, biodegradable shampoo and soap are provided onboard the boat; if you wish to bring your own, please make sure they are biodegradable to comply with conservation policies. Conditioner is not provided, and should also be biodegradable if you choose to bring some. If possible, avoid strong fragrances if you are sensitive to insect bites and in consideration of your fellow travelers.
  • Washcloth or a small, quick-drying microfiber towel – Washcloths are not standard in all hotels. If you normally use a washcloth, you may wish to bring one from home.
  • Hairbrush, comb, hair ties, shower cap – Hair dryers are provided onboard the boat.
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Razor
  • Ear plugs, especially if you are a light sleeper
  • Personal hygiene products
  • Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin
  • Reef-safe sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
  • Aloe vera gel
  • A travel pack of tissues – also useful as napkins or toilet paper if needed

In addition to your personal toiletries, it is useful to pack a small medical kit, which you can easily prepare. Helpful items might include: bandages, antihistamine, a pain reliever, motion sickness and/or altitude sickness medication (if you are prone to either), anti-diarrhea medicine, individually wrapped pre-moistened towelettes and/or hand sanitizer, antibiotic ointment, anti-fungal cream, moleskin for blisters, eye drops, tweezers, a mini sewing kit, and an extra pair of disposable contact lenses or eyeglasses if you wear them.

MISCELLANEOUS

Remember to pack valuables such as your passport, cash/credit cards, and medications in your carry-on luggage.

  • Passport and photocopies of all travel documentation
  • Personal insurance card and travel insurance information
  • Money – ATM/credit card, traveler's checks, and/or cash; small bills in good condition are recommended – The M/Y Tip Top IV creates an account/tab for each passenger for bar purchases and wetsuit rentals. The account is to be paid in full, in cash, at the end of the cruise. Ecuador's currency is the U.S. dollar; no currency exchange is required.
  • Prescription medicines (if applicable), with a copy of the prescription
  • Yellow fever certificate (if required; only if arriving from a country where yellow fever transmission is a risk)
  • Sunglasses with strap
  • Small day pack for hikes and excursions
  • Flashlight and/or head lamp
  • Travel alarm clock or inexpensive waterproof wristwatch with alarm
  • Binoculars with lens cleaner
  • Camera and related equipment, such as charger, lenses, and extra memory cards – You may also want a watertight, underwater camera.
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Non-perishable snacks
  • Pocket knife or multipurpose tool – Pack in your checked luggage
  • Zip-top style bags – useful for packing toiletries, sorting clothing, storing damp or muddy shoes, or as a dry bag for protecting electronics
  • Notepad or travel journal and pen
  • Music or reading material for down time, bus drives, or on the airplane, and a portable bright light to read by
  • Walking stick with rubber tip (folding or collapsible, for walking on rough and uneven terrain)
  • Swim mask/fins (snorkeling equipment is available to rent and often included for most groups)
  • Clothespins for hanging wet swimsuits and other clothing
  • Money belt
  • Voltage converter and plug adapter for electronics
  • Chargers for electronics
NOTE: There is a weight limit of 50 lbs. of checked luggage and one carry-on per person for your flight to the Galápagos Islands. Your luggage and/or carry-on may be subject to inspection by the Ecuadorian government in an effort to prevent the introduction of foreign plants and animals to the Galápagos Islands.
Outstanding hikes, lectures, snorkeling and photography opportunities!
- Bill F.
Galapagos Islands , 2022
Questions?

Contact Sandy Schmidt at 877-907-5360 or email Sandy. 

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