Venture to Ecuador s volcanic archipelago, the

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www.naturalistjourneys.com with optional Ecuador extension Jan. 15-20 Wildlife destination of a lifetime beckons; last chance to see these sites in a 1-week tour!

Linda Tossing Venture to Ecuador s volcanic archipelago, the Galapagos Islands, a famous and treasured World Heritage Site!

highlights included here in a one-week cruise. We ve selected a voyage with Ecoventura, an award-winning, ecologically friendly company with decades of experience and top-quality ships.

Three levels of cabins are available: Dolphin, Booby, and Iguana (see their Web site, or inquire for details).

1 with optional Ecuador extension Jan Wildlife destination of a lifetime beckons; last chance to see these sites in a 1-week tour! The Galapagos Islands were amazing such a different experience than anywhere else in the world. Linda Tossing Venture to Ecuador s volcanic archipelago, the Galapagos Islands, a famous and treasured World Heritage Site! Join us for a spectacular January getaway, one well-timed as this is one of the LAST cruises before rules governing visits to the Galapagos Islands change, making it impossible to visit all the highlights included here in a one-week cruise. We ve selected a voyage with Ecoventura, an award-winning, ecologically friendly company with decades of experience and top-quality ships. At the present time, Naturalist Journeys, LLC has chartered half of one boat, but with early sign-ups, we may be able to book the entire ship. Three levels of cabins are available: Dolphin, Booby, and Iguana (see their Web site, or inquire for details). Many species we observe on the Galapagos are found nowhere else in the world: Flightless Cormorants, Galapagos Penguins, and beautiful Swallowtailed Gulls. The wildlife is truly extraordinary and remarkably tame. Don t be surprised if you have to step carefully over a nesting Blue-footed Booby, or wait for a young Galapagos Sea Lion to uncurl from resting on the daypack you left on the beach. The islands are critical nesting habitat for abundant seabirds, including Red, Blue-footed and Masked boobies, Magnificent and Great frigatebirds, Red-billed Tropicbirds, and Waved Albatrosses. You ll have a chance to observe and photograph birds courting, nesting, feeding, caring for young, and in flight. In deep water channels between islands, we look for the

Galapagos Shearwaters and Galapagos Petrels. Waved Albatrosses will have completed nesting, but often the colony has large chicks remaining, ready to fledge, and we see adults at sea.

We also search for Galapagos Flamingos, Galapagos Hawks, and the Galapagos form of the Short-eared Owl.

islands; Land Iguanas, on the other hand, are rare and shy. Huge land tortoises that give the islands their name graze in their natural highland habitat.

2 Galapagos Shearwaters and Galapagos Petrels. Waved Albatrosses will have completed nesting, but often the colony has large chicks remaining, ready to fledge, and we see adults at sea. Land birds are plentiful, including the richly patterned Galapagos Doves. Sorting out many of the thirteen species of Darwin s finches provides an enjoyable challenge. We also search for Galapagos Flamingos, Galapagos Hawks, and the Galapagos form of the Short-eared Owl. Other creatures will also captivate you: Intensely colorful Sally Lightfoot crabs contrast dramatically with the dark lava rock; Marine Iguanas are plentiful, their color patterns varying between islands; Land Iguanas, on the other hand, are rare and shy. Huge land tortoises that give the islands their name graze in their natural highland habitat. Those who wish may snorkel almost daily in quiet coves among active and colorful fish, sometimes seeing dolphins and sea turtles as well. So much is said of Galapagos wildlife that other parts of the experience often go undescribed. You can easily observe the islands fascinating volcanic geology from the texture of lava and patterns of spatter cones to the stunning moonscapes found on younger islands. Using small boats, we explore the mangrove lagoons. The Galapagos provide habitat for more than 500 species of plants, including some 180 endemics. On some islands, prickly pear cactus grow tall as trees imagine walking through a giant cactus forest! Since the days of Charles Darwin s visit aboard the Beagle, studies of the Galapagos Islands have contributed much to our current understanding of evolution. In a week s voyage, you can truly recognize the myriad of climatic and physical factors that affect each species never-ending process of change through time. You will see variation within species as you encounter them on different islands. Responsible tourism is a key factor in promising continued protection our itinerary is carefully designed with that in mind. The Galapagos Islands have been protected as a wildlife sanctuary under the government of Ecuador since More recently, in 1986, its pristine marine environment has also been protected. Enjoy a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station and learn more about conservation efforts, including the control of introduced species, such as goats, rats, pigs, and cats. Here you can also photograph Giant Tortoises in captive rearing pens.

Following the journey, we offer and highly recommend an extension in Ecuador (details upon request).

3 Don t miss this opportunity to visit one of the world s top wildlife destinations! Our journey begins and ends in Quito, Ecuador, where we offer an option for birding or a city tour the day before your flight to to the islands. Following the journey, we offer and highly recommend an extension in Ecuador (details upon request). Please look over the cabins in the three sister ships the Eric, Flamingo, or Letty and see the dedicated commitment to conservation the Ecoventura promotes, online at FULL ITINERARY Fri., Jan. 6 Arrive in Quito, Ecuador Arrive in Quito, Ecuador, where you are greeted at the airport and transfer to the Hotel Sebastian, a delightful hotel with shops and restaurants (and yes, Internet cafes!) within easy walking distance. Step out on your balcony to overlook the busy city. Dinner tonight is at your leisure as several of you will be eating on the plane this evening; those arriving in Quito early can gather for dinner at our hotel if they wish. Sat., Jan. 7 Quito Day Trip: Birding and Markets Enjoy an all-day birding trip to see cloud forest birds at the Bella Vista Nature Reserve. Enjoy lunch and birding and as time allows, we stop at the Equator for photos and colorful local handicrafts. We return to the Hotel Sebastian at dusk, and you can choose to sample a nearby local restaurant or dine at our hotel. You may leave luggage and unneeded gear at the hotel during your voyage along with your new stash of handicrafts (B,L)

Sun., January 8 Flight to San Cristobal / Playa Ochoa We fly out early this morning to the Galapagos Islands. The flight is about two hours as the archipelago sits close to 600 miles off the coast.

Upon arrival to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, on SAN CRISTOBAL Island, our ship s crew is waiting at the airport to escort us to our anchored yacht.

4 Sun., January 8 Flight to San Cristobal / Playa Ochoa We fly out early this morning to the Galapagos Islands. The flight is about two hours as the archipelago sits close to 600 miles off the coast. From the air we see the islands below, rimmed with turquoise reefs in quiet coves. Upon arrival to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, on SAN CRISTOBAL Island, our ship s crew is waiting at the airport to escort us to our anchored yacht. After the welcome briefing, buffet lunch, and safety drill, we set sail for Playa Ochoa where we have our first wet landing. Here, we can test our snorkeling equipment while swimming with a small colony of sea lions. Behind the beach is a tidal lagoon where birds, including the endemic Chatham Mockingbird, one of four species of mockingbirds on the islands, can be spotted. At sunset, we cruise around Kicker Rock (Leon Dormido), a vertical tuff cone formation that abruptly juts up almost 500 feet out of the ocean. On the cliffs, we spot Blue-footed Boobies, Nazca (formerly Masked) Boobies, and Magnificent Frigatebirds. This evening, the guides hold a briefing, followed by the Captain s welcome cocktail reception. (B,L,D) Mon., Jan. 9 (FULL MOON) Tower Island: Darwin s Bay / Prince Philip s Steps Today we spend both morning and afternoon within the caldera of intriguing 14-square-mile TOWER

(GENOVESA) Island, considered one of the most spectacular bird-watching islands in the Galapagos. In the morning, we have a dry landing at Prince Philip s Steps.

species of Storm Petrels. You will be very close to these animals (though Galapagos rules are strict no touching!), so be prepared to shoot many photos!

Tower has a remote, wild, and unspoiled character, lying one degree north of the Equator. Vegetation is sparse here; dry Palo Santo forest occurs with mangroves at the ocean edge.

5 (GENOVESA) Island, considered one of the most spectacular bird-watching islands in the Galapagos. In the morning, we have a dry landing at Prince Philip s Steps. Being close to deep ocean waters, Tower is an ideal nesting area for Red-footed Boobies (both light and dark color phases), Great Frigatebirds, Nazca Boobies, Swallow-tailed Gulls, and several species of Storm Petrels. You will be very close to these animals (though Galapagos rules are strict no touching!), so be prepared to shoot many photos! We may also encounter Lava Gulls, Yellow-crowned Night- Herons, Galapagos Doves, four species of Darwin s Finches, and, if we re lucky! the Short-eared Owl. Tower has a remote, wild, and unspoiled character, lying one degree north of the Equator. Vegetation is sparse here; dry Palo Santo forest occurs with mangroves at the ocean edge. After the walk, kayaks are available to paddle along the shoreline or walk in a quiet lagoon where shorebirds are feeding. Red-billed Tropicbirds call over head, bringing fish to their young. After lunch, take a siesta, or relax on deck with a book from the ship s library. This afternoon, we have a wet landing on Darwin Bay, a coral sand beach where Swallow-tailed and Lava gulls gather near the tide pools. Enter a forest of Opuntia cactus and mangroves where colonies of Great Frigatebirds nest. The males inflate their red-throated pouches to attract females as they fly overhead. The trail leads through a rich intertidal zone where we find a wide diversity of wildlife. After the walk, we can swim and snorkel from the beach with sea lions in these northern warmer waters. We depart to motor to the western Islands during the briefing, followed by dinner. (B,L,D) Tues., Jan. 10 Fernandina Island / Punta Espinoza, and Isabela Island / Tagus Cove This morning, we have a semi-wet landing at Punta Espinoza, FERNANDINA, the youngest and most pristine Island in Galapagos no exotic animal has been introduced here to date. Recent lava flows formed by an active volcano stretch their way around the coast, and in 1988, 1991, and very recently, visitors witnessed spectacular volcanic eruptions here. Because of this recent activity, the islands are sparsely vegetated. The

beautiful mangrove-lined cove at Punta Espinosa is home to Galapagos Penguins, which may swim around our boat like ducks.

Galapagos Sea Lions often appear at our landing, Flightless Cormorants build their nest on the point, and Galapagos Hawks call and signal each other in flight nearby.

close-up shot! Observe sea lion harems with resident bulls carefully guarding their territory.

This afternoon, we have a dry landing at Tagus Cove, located on the western Island of ISABELA, actually a composite of six individual islands (one of which is submerged),

6 beautiful mangrove-lined cove at Punta Espinosa is home to Galapagos Penguins, which may swim around our boat like ducks. We may find sea turtles, a variety of large rays, and, on the rocks, striking red-and-yellow Sally Lightfoot Crabs. Galapagos Sea Lions often appear at our landing, Flightless Cormorants build their nest on the point, and Galapagos Hawks call and signal each other in flight nearby. Hundreds of Marine Iguanas, the largest colony in Galapagos, bask in the sun along the rugged shoreline: Watch them spitting salt as you lie on your belly for that perfect close-up shot! Observe sea lion harems with resident bulls carefully guarding their territory. After lunch, we cross the Bolivar Chanel where we often spot whales and dolphins riding the bow wave. This afternoon, we have a dry landing at Tagus Cove, located on the western Island of ISABELA, actually a composite of six individual islands (one of which is submerged), formed by shield volcanoes united by lava flows. One of the southern volcanoes erupted magnificently in October of 2005, so the island continues to grow. Scenery is astounding: the Wolf and Cerro Azul volcanoes reach 5,100 feet high. During one walk, we discover a salt-water lagoon, a scenic overlook with a spectacular view of the ocean, lava fields, and volcanic formations. Graffiti dating back to the 1800s is scrawled on the rocky cliffs.

We may be able to take a panga ride along the cliffs to get a different perspective and see a Brown Noddy at close range.

One year, we were fortunate to encounter a large pod of Orcas when leaving this island. After the briefing and dinner, a sky full of stars beckons us out on deck to observe the passing galaxy.

11 Santiago Island: Puerto Egas, and Sombrero Chino Island This morning, we have a wet landing at Puerto Egas, SANTIAGO (James), fourth largest of the Galapagos archipelago and decorated dramatically

7 We may be able to take a panga ride along the cliffs to get a different perspective and see a Brown Noddy at close range. Explore the Coves by Zodiac or in one of our clear-bottom sea kayaks, and an excellent snorkeling opportunity is offered here after the walk. One year, we were fortunate to encounter a large pod of Orcas when leaving this island. After the briefing and dinner, a sky full of stars beckons us out on deck to observe the passing galaxy. (B,L,D) Wed., Jan. 11 Santiago Island: Puerto Egas, and Sombrero Chino Island This morning, we have a wet landing at Puerto Egas, SANTIAGO (James), fourth largest of the Galapagos archipelago and decorated dramatically with recent lava flows. Stroll along the shoreline looking for octopus, starfish, and other sea life caught in the tide pools. The black sand beach of Puerto Egas is one of the sites we encounter that Charles Darwin visited in his historic voyage. At low tide, catch a glimpse of Marine Iguanas as they feed on exposed green algae. Watch for Great Blue Herons, Lava Herons, American Oystercatchers, and Yellow-crowned Night-Herons. Our walk ends at the grottos, deep pools of clear water where we encounter Fur Sea Lions, once on the verge of extinction. Before returning to the yacht, we ll have a snorkeling opportunity with loads of tropical fish. As an alternative, you may use the kayaks to explore the marine life without getting wet. During lunch, the yacht motors to the other side of the Island, which provides views of scenic landscapes. Located off the southern tip of Santiago, SOMBRERO CHINO, or Chinese Hat owes its name to its shape. After a wet beach landing and watched by colonies of sea lions, the trail gives way to a primeval landscape of volcanic rubble, including cracked lava formations and lava tubes. The lava tubes are fragile, and one must be careful to stay on the trail. We find Marine Iguanas and pairs of oystercatchers. Wonderful photographic opportunities are everywhere you look, as this site conveys a strong feeling that you ve come to a very special place in the world. The evening briefing is followed by dinner as we anchor in a calm protected area. (B,L,D)

Thurs., Jan. 12 Bartolome Island / North Seymour Island On Bartolome, it seems as if we are walking on the moon. This young Island is inhospitable to most plants and animals.

Along the way, we pause to marvel at geology in action: lava tubes, lava bombs, spatter cones and cinder cones.

Down below, crystal-clear water invites us to snorkel from the beach or Zodiac with schools of tropical fish and Galapagos Penguins.

8 Thurs., Jan. 12 Bartolome Island / North Seymour Island On Bartolome, it seems as if we are walking on the moon. This young Island is inhospitable to most plants and animals. After a dry landing, climb 30 minutes up wooden stairs leading to the summit of a once-active volcano. Along the way, we pause to marvel at geology in action: lava tubes, lava bombs, spatter cones and cinder cones. From the top, we can gaze out across the island for a panoramic view of Sullivan Bay and Pinnacle Rock, an eroded tuff cone. Down below, crystal-clear water invites us to snorkel from the beach or Zodiac with schools of tropical fish and Galapagos Penguins. This afternoon, we have a dry landing at NORTH SEYMOUR, an island formed as a small geological uplift. We follow a trail that leads us to Swallow-tailed Gulls, Blue-footed Boobies, and endemic Land Iguanas. Visit the largest colony of Magnificent Frigatebirds found in Galapagos. As we stroll along the beach, we can watch Marine Iguanas while sea lions bodysurf the northern swells. After the walk, you can choose a deep-water snorkeling opportunity. Passengers who have purchased our dive package will have two dives in lieu of visiting North Seymour. (B,L,D) Fri., Jan. 13 Santa Cruz Island / Highlands / Darwin Station This morning we travel by bus to the highlands, (elevation 2,700-4,500 feet), of SANTA CRUZ Island. The scenery gradually changes as we wind our way through all seven vegetation zones found in Galapagos. Here, we visit the tortoise reserve at one of the private farms in the highlands where we encounter giant tortoises in their natural habitat. We visit Los Gemelos (Spanish for The Twins ), a pair of large pit craters where we find bright red male Vermilion Flycatchers and hopefully, Woodpecker Finches. We stop at The Tunnels, the largest lava tubes found in Galapagos. This area is the realm of the guara, the seasonal mist that cloaks the forest, producing lush vegetation. After lunch on board, we visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, established in We visit all three tortoise corrals and the breeding center with recent hatchlings and miniature tortoises not yet ready to be repatriated. Scientists from all over the globe work here and conduct biological research on topics ranging from anatomy to zoology. We also visit the Van Straelen Hall where we see exhibits and watch a short video presentation. Visitors can see the pen of Lonesome George, the last surviving member of the Pinta Island subspecies. Larger trees and shrubs surround the tortoise pens attracting several species of Darwin s finches. Afterwards, we stroll through the town of Puerto Ayora (population: 20,000), the largest

town in the Galapagos. Buy souvenirs, mail postcards, or kick back at an Internet cafe in the social heart of the Islands.

Although dinner is served on board, passengers may visit the town in the evening to shop and dine on their own. (B,L,D) Sat., Jan.

endemic species in Galapagos. Sea lions noisily greet us as we land on their beach. Curious Hood Mockingbirds peck at our shoelaces.

9 town in the Galapagos. Buy souvenirs, mail postcards, or kick back at an Internet cafe in the social heart of the Islands. Passengers who have purchased our scuba dive package will have two dives in lieu of visiting the Darwin Station. Divers can visit the highlands on their return from the dive. Although dinner is served on board, passengers may visit the town in the evening to shop and dine on their own. (B,L,D) Sat., Jan. 14 Espanola Island / Punta Suarez / Gardner Bay This morning we have a dry landing at Punta Suarez, ESPANOLA (Hood), close to deep, productive ocean waters where we can witness the highest rate of endemic species in Galapagos. Sea lions noisily greet us as we land on their beach. Curious Hood Mockingbirds peck at our shoelaces. Colonies of Blue-footed Boobies engage in sky-pointing to show off for potential mates. Nazca Boobies busily care for their young, and we can see stunning Swallow-tailed Gulls, the world s only nocturnal gull. Red-billed Tropicbirds take shelter under the cliffs. We also find Darwin s Finches, Galapagos Doves, and Galapagos Hawks. This is the scene most people envision when they decide to visit Galapagos. On the windy side of the island, immense cliffs create updrafts that make it possible for the heavy-bodied albatross to take off and land. They share airspace with boobies, tropicbirds, and Swallow-tailed Gulls. On our walk, we see a dramatic blowhole that jets water one hundred feet and higher, as colorful Sally Lightfoot Crabs skitter along the shoreline. Espanola is one of the oldest of the islands, and has an endemic species of Mockingbird, an endemic Lava Lizard, and the large-billed variety of the Cactus Finch. Save time to photograph Espanola s Marine Iguana, which is quite colorful in contrast to those of other islands. Goats were eradicated from this island in 1978, and the endemic race of Giant Tortoise is being returned to the wild here. On our last afternoon in Galapagos, we have a wet landing on Gardner Bay, ESPANOLA (HOOD). Wander peacefully along this seemingly endless white sandy beach where you ll find large colonies of sea lions, and you may find a Galapagos Hawk, Darwin s Finches, or Hood Mockingbird. Swim with sea lions from the beach, or just relax on your last glorious day in Galapagos. There s an excellent snorkeling site off Gardner Islet with a colorful diversity of sea life near Tortuga Rock in caves

covered with invertebrates. Passengers are also permitted to use the kayaks at this particular site.

15 San Cristobal Island / Interpretation Center This morning, we drop anchor in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, SAN CRISTOBAL. We visit the Interpretation Center opened in 1999.

Afterwards, we head straight to the airport for our flight back to the mainland. Accommodations at Hotel Sebastian, Quito. (B,L,D) Mon., Jan.

10 covered with invertebrates. Passengers are also permitted to use the kayaks at this particular site. This evening, enjoy the Captain s Farewell cocktail, followed by dinner and a briefing. (B,L,D) Sun., Jan. 15 San Cristobal Island / Interpretation Center This morning, we drop anchor in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, SAN CRISTOBAL. We visit the Interpretation Center opened in Here, armed with all we ve seen and experienced this week, we gain a more complete understanding of the natural and human history of the Islands. Afterwards, we head straight to the airport for our flight back to the mainland. Accommodations at Hotel Sebastian, Quito. (B,L,D) Mon., Jan. 16 Departures Departures, or enjoy our Ecuador Extension details provided with registration. THE TIME TO BOOK IS NOW! We have to release charter space months ahead of the voyage, and this voyage will be a sell-out! We d love to see a strong Naturalist Journeys, LLC / Sunrise Birding contingent on the boat, along with our good friends of Casa de San Pedro! Please call today we can hold space as you consider, but do not delay!

PLAN AHEAD! Protect yourself with Access America Travel Insurance.Offset your Carbon Footprint. Show us the receipt and we ll take 50% - up to $50.

11 PLAN AHEAD! Protect yourself with Access America Travel Insurance.Offset your Carbon Footprint. Show us the receipt and we ll take 50% - up to $ of your carbon offset fee off your final payment. COST OF THE JOURNEY The tour price, in Iguana cabins, starts at $ from Quito. Cost of the journey is for the full week (7-night) boat charter with Ecoventura and for the Quito package for your arrival and departure. The Quito package includes airport transfers, 3N accommodations (2N pre- and 1N post-voyage) 2 breakfasts, 1 lunch in Quito pre-cruise, Final dinner and breakfast post-tour, and a full day birding and culture outing Jan. 7. We ask you to arrive 2 nights early as the boat will NOT wait for you, and over the years, we have seen storms delay flights from the USA, causing problems. Arrive, settle in, enjoy a bit of Ecuador, and you will be ready for Galapagos. The tour cost does include complimentary use of snorkel gear, wetsuits if needed and kayaks while with Ecoventura. Cost is based on the type of cabin requested. Inquire, and we will send you a link to a chart showing you the layout of the boat. Cost for Iguana, Booby, and Dolphin decks are (includes pre- and post-quito package): $ 3795: Iguana Deck Lower Deck, most stable $4175: Booby Deck - Middle Deck, most convenient to dining and lounge $4550: Dolphin Deck upper, great views and ambiance Cabins are on a first-come/first-serve basis by category book early to get your choice! TRAVEL INFORMATION Please plan to arrive in Quito on January 6, 2011, at your convenience. As some people will have dinner on the plane, we do not plan a group meal this evening, but those already in Quito can gather informally at the excellent restaurant at our hotel. Plan to depart at your convenience, knowing that you should be at the airport hours ahead of your flight, on Jan. 16. We plan a fabulous Ecuador extension for those that wish to stay - please request details. Cost of the journey does NOT include airfare from your home to Quito, the flight from Quito to Galapagos (currently $425, we will help you book this after confirming your journey), Galapagos Park entry fee and tax (currently about $110), which is paid directly to park officials on your arrival at customs in Galapagos, items of a personal nature such as porterage, drinks from the bar, laundry, telephone, and crew and guide gratuities (at your discretion). Naturalist Journeys, LLC is an equal opportunity service provider and committed to the goal of ensuring equal opportunity for all in employment and program delivery. Photo Credits: Male Frigatebird, Waved Albatross in flight, group in boat, and boat with Frigatebird, Bud Ferguson; images of the ships, all other photos by Peg Abbott.

M/C ALYA CENTRAL AND EASTERN ISLANDS 8 DAY / 7 NIGHT CRUISE MONDAY - MONDAY

M/C ALYA CENTRAL AND EASTERN ISLANDS 8 DAY / 7 NIGHT CRUISE MONDAY - MONDAY DAY BY DAY ISLANDS - San Cristobal - Española - Santa Cruz - North Seymour - Genovesa - Santiago - Bartholome DAY 1 SAN CRISTOBAL