PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR

SPECIAL DEPARTURE DATES:
July 11-21, 2010

The Galapagos Archipelago not only inspired Charles Darwin’s famous theory, but has been a source of inspiration for countless explorers ever since.  Many of its plant and animal species are unique in the world. Animals have no fear of humans and can be photographed at close range –plus the unique illumination of the equatorial sun is great for amazing landscapes.

This is a unique opportunity to see and photograph the Galapagos, both above water and underwater with the guidance and care of experts in the field; a fascinating destination where your hardest decision will be where to point your camera first…  Exceptional days in the islands, with rewarding locations within the itinerary, will also include photography workshops, presentations, and the use of modern photo-techniques. In the evenings, indulge in great dinners and cozy accommodations.

As you learn, apply in the field your new techniques in different approaches to landscape and wide angle, macro and portrait photography, using the unique light conditions only found in the Galapagos Islands.  Mr. Green will permanently coach guests in both land and underwater photography, and since the walking pace of photographers is different to that of non photography groups, extended time periods will be scheduled for key species and ¨hotspots¨ along the trails.

A major plus will be the added opportunity to photograph Ecuador’s Andean Volcanoes and the city of Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a jewel of Colonial art and architecture.  This is photography at its best.

About the Photographer Jonathan Green: Jonathan, a resident of Ecuador, has been studying and photographing the Galapagos Islands, their flora and fauna on land and underwater, for over 20 years. Four times finalist in the Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition. Bronze medalist at Hasselblad World Circuit 2000. Photos published in Time, Time Life, Time for Kids, GEO, BBC Natural History and Royal Geographical Magazines. Photography exhibited at the Natural History Museum of London, Olympia Stadium, London and assorted venues around the world.

Day 1 - Monday | Arrive in Ecuador

Escorted transfer between the Quito airport and hacienda La Carriona, located outside the city of Quito. Overnight: Hacienda La Carriona.

Day 2 - Tuesday | Antisana Ecological Reserve and City tour of Quito

This is a spectacular day trip to the Antisana volcano, the fourth in altitude in Ecuador, covered with glaciers and snow, and the surrounding Ecological Reserve. After lunch drive to Quito and enjoy a visit to downtown Quito to relish in this urban jewel and its treasures of art and architecture. Overnight at the Patio Andaluz. Meals: B, L

Day 3 - Wednesday | Quito to the Galapagos Islands

Morning transfer to the Quito airport where you board the Tame Airlines flight to the Galapagos Islands. On arrival at Baltra Island, transfer to the yacht ISABELA II where you will have an introductory briefing as you cruise to the first visitor site.

Afternoon at North Seymour Island
Observing bird colonies of blue footed boobies, frigate birds, swallow tailed gulls and also sea lions and marine iguanas.   Meals: B, L, D

Day 4 - Thursday | Full day at Espanola (Hood) Island

Morning at Gardner Bay
Watch the sea lions, mockingbirds, finches or enjoy the beautiful white coral beach. 

Afternoon at Punta Suarez
Visit the island's unique sea bird colonies, including the Waved Albatrosses (May - December) and the famous blowhole.  Meals: B, L, D

Day 5 - Friday | Full day at Floreana Island

Morning at Punta Cormorant
See the flamingos that inhabit a brackish-water lagoon, and other birds like ducks, stilts, sandpipers, etc.

Afternoon at Champion Islet and Post Office Bay
Possibility to snorkel from the pangas around Champion Islet or a ride on the glass-bottom boat.  Visit the historic barrel that served as a post office. Learn about the fascinating human side of the islands, its early inhabitants and the adventures of pirates and whaler. Meals: B, L, D

Day 6 - Saturday | Full day at Tower (Genovesa) Island

Morning at Darwin Bay
Observe thousands of bird life, mainly frigate birds, red footed and masked boobies, gulls, herons, finches and mockingbirds.

Afternoon at Prince Philip's Steps
Observe large colonies of masked boobies, frigate birds and storm petrels. Meals: B, L, D

Day 7 - Sunday | Isabela and Fernandina Islands

As we cross the equatorial line, early risers will enjoy the view while passing the famous Ecuador Volcano, which has one of its halves collapsed and submerged in the water.

Morning at Tagus Cove, Isabela
In past centuries, Tagus Cove was a favorite anchorage for pirates and whalers.  Old graffiti is still found on its walls.  An uphill hike takes you to the back of Darwin Crater, which is filled with salt water.  The view at the end of the trail is worth the climb.

Afternoon at Punta Espinosa, Fernandina
Having no introduced mammals, Fernandina has a very unique environment with the highest density of marine iguanas, sharing their space with sea lions, sally-light foot crabs, hawks, penguins and the flightless cormorant.  Meals: B, L, D

Day 8 - Monday | James and Bartolome Islands

Morning at Puerto Egas, James
This is a great opportunity to see land and marine birds.  At low tide, marine iguanas graze upon the algae beds and there is a colony of fur-sea lions. 

Afternoon at Bartolome
A steep climb on a wooden staircase leads you to one of the classic Galapagos photos. Meals: B, L, D

Day 9 - Tuesday | Galapagos Islands to Guayaquil

Disembark this yacht this morning to board the flight back to the mainland. On arrival in Guayaquil, transfer to your hotel. Enjoy an afternoon city tour of this port city. Visit the Malecon 2000 waterfront area, Barrio Las Penas neighbourhood, Iguana park and the business sector. Overnight at the Hilton Colon. Meals: B

Day 10 - Wednesday | Depart Ecuador

Depart Guayaquil on your scheduled flight back to North America. Meals: B

[ view e-brochure & detailed itinerary ]

Departs: April 04-14, 2010 and July 11-21, 2010

ACCOMMODATIONS

La Carriona (Standard room) - 1 nt
Patio Andaluz (Standard room) - 1 nt
Hilton Colon (Deluxe room) - 1 nt
Yacht Isabela II - Various Categories (see above) - 7 nts [ view details about the ship ]

WHAT'S INCLUDED IN THIS GALAPAGOS PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR:

- 9 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 7 dinners
- 3 nights hotel accommodation on mainland Ecuador and 7 night cruise
- transfers and tours per schedule
- services on an English speaking guide/photography tour leader

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED IN THIS GALAPAGOS PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR:

- Airfare Quito - Galapagos - Quito (approx. US$ 425)
- International airfare
- US$ 100 Galapagos National Park entrance fee
- US$ 10 Galapagos Transit Tax
- US$ 27.75 Ecuador exit tax
- Gratuities
- Meals and beverages (unless specified above)
- Cancellation / medical insurance

DURATION

10 nights / 11 days

TOUR UPGRADES