Ecuador & the Galapagos Islands

Jun 16 - 18 | Quito, Ecuador

• Illa Experience Hotel (2 nights)

Jun 18 - 25 | Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

• Grace Yacht (7 nights)

Jun 26 | Departure

If you need any assistance while you are traveling, or if you would like to make any changes, reservations or cancellations during your time in Ecuador & the Galapagos Islands you can contact the following who will be your local contacts during your trip:

Quito:

• Local Name: will be provided
  
• Local Contact Number: will be provided

Galapagos:

• Quasar 24/7 Contact Line: 305 391 2171

--

• Your Curator - will be provided
  
• Scenset Emergency Line: will be provided

Important: Due to the time difference, for small day-to-day things like touring and dining reservations - or emergencies that need immediate assistance - it will be most efficient for you to use the local contacts as they are in the same time zone as you.

WhatsApp: If you don’t have WhatsApp on your phone, we strongly encourage downloading it for free as it makes contacting our local team easier.

Quito
In June, Quito, Ecuador experiences mild and spring-like weather with average daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). It's the dry season in Quito, characterized by plenty of sunshine and minimal rainfall, making it an ideal time to explore the city's historic sites and enjoy outdoor activities.


Galapagos Islands
In June, the Galapagos Islands experience mild and pleasant weather with average daytime temperatures ranging from 22°C to 26°C (72°F to 79°F). June is part of the dry season, known locally as the "Garúa" season, characterized by cooler temperatures, overcast skies, and frequent misty conditions in the highlands. Rainfall is minimal, and the coastal areas enjoy plenty of sunshine, making it an ideal time for wildlife viewing, snorkeling, and exploring the unique landscapes of the islands.

Travelers with a US passport do not need a visa to enter Ecuador. Please ensure your passport is valid for 6 months.

These guidelines are for reference only. Scenset holds no responsibility for travel restrictions. Travelers are responsible for ensuring the right documentation to travel.

The average temperature in the Galapagos is in the 22°C to 26°C (72°F to 79°F) range. For this reason, it is best to wear light clothing. The suggested clothing for Galapagos is walking or hiking shoes, shorts and pants, teva style sandals, comfortable shoes to wear on deck, t-shirts, polos, light (long sleeve) shirts or blouses, swimsuits, regular underwear, wind shell, medium to light fleece jacket and cotton sweat shirts. You will also need a hat and sunglasses with high UV protection and more formal attire for the evenings.

For Ecuador, we recommend packing the above, as well as a jacket as the temperatures can be a little cooler here. Please also pack a light raincoat in case of any rain.

Please remember to take your personal medications, vitamins, sea sickness medication (as a precaution), toiletry kit, aloe vera, hand sanitizers, cameras, watch, binoculars, insect repellent, electric adaptors and waterproof backpack to carry your belongings during shore and dinghy excursions. For travelers who wear glasses, we recommend bringing either contact lenses or a prescription mask for the snorkeling activity.

If you are passionate about photography or video, Galapagos is a great place for taking amazing images of wildlife and landscapes. Because the wildlife in Galapagos has never learned to fear humans, getting very close to animals is guaranteed. For this reason, you will be able to enjoy any camera and lens yet, the more versatile and recommended lenses are the 70-200mm for wildlife and a 24- 70mm for landscapes. It is also recommended to take a good supply of memory cards, spare batteries and a dry bag to protect your equipment.

Since the Galapagos are located on the equator and the high reflectance of UV radiation, you will need good sun block lotion (protection factor 30 and above) for your face, body and lip balm.

Please see a more comprehensive outline of what to pack, what to expect on board, and more here.

This includes information about:

• Passport & vaccination requirements
  
• Clothing & equipment list
  
• What to expect onboard
  
• Gratuities
  
• Useful tips

Tipping during your holiday is not compulsory. If, however, you want to tip because you have received good service, we have enclosed a brief guideline to assist you:

Currency: We advise clients to take spending money in the form of US Dollar cash, as this is favored for tips.

• Drivers: a small amount per day.
  
• Guides: a small amount per day.
  
• Bartenders: round-up the bill.
  
• Wait-staff: 10% of the bill.
  
• Porters: a small amount per bag.
  
• Hotel Room/Staff: a small amount per night.

A few Spanish phrases to try during your trip are:

• Hello: ¡Hola! (oh-lah)
  
• Good morning: ¡Buenos días! (bweh-nos dee-ahs)
  
• Good afternoon: ¡Buenas tardes! (bweh-nahs tar-dehs)
  
• Good evening: ¡Buenas noches! (bweh-nahs noh-chehs)
  
• Goodbye: ¡Adiós! (a-dyos)
  
• Thank you: Gracias (grah-thee-ahs)
  
• Please: ¡Por favor! (pohr fah-vohr)
  
• How are you?: ¿Cómo estás? (ko-mo es-tas)
  
• Good, thank you!: ¡Bien, gracias! (bee-ehn gra-thee-as)
  
• Please!: ¡Por favor! (pohr fah-vohr)
  
• No problem: De nada (de-na-da)
  
• Sorry: Perdón (per-dohn)
  
• What is your name?: ¿Cómo te llamas? (coh-moh teh yah-mah)
  
• My name is...: Me llamo... (meh yah-moh)
  
• Yes: Si (sea)
  
• No: No (with a shorter o sound)
  
• Cheers!: ¡Salud! (sah-LOO)

Escape the chaos and long lines at Quito Airport upon arrival with our VIP service. Upon arrival, your dedicated staff will be waiting for you right after the jet bridge, ensuring a seamless experience. Enjoy a preferential line at immigration and customs, and once you're ready, retrieve your luggage hassle-free.

You'll be greeted by your host at the arrivals terminal and private transfer to your hotel in Quito.

• Meeting time: Late at night
  
• Meeting point: Arrivals gate
  
• Contact: will be provided
  
• Tel: will be provided

Booked by Scenset.

• Republican King Suite
  
• Confirmation number: will be provided
  
• Breakfast included

Here are our favorite ways to discover Quito:

*Please note, your tour this afternoon will most likely be exploring some of these areas.

• Lose yourself in the enchanting streets of Quito's Old Town - wander through the historic center and marvel at the beautifully preserved colonial architecture. Discover hidden plazas, charming courtyards, and picturesque streets that transport you to a different era. We suggest heading to Plaza de la Independencia (Plaza Grande), Plaza Santo Domingo, and Plaza San Francisco.
  
• Take a leisurely stroll and capture moments in La Ronda - this charming narrow cobblestone street is incredibly photogenic. Admire the vibrant buildings, immerse yourself in the artistic atmosphere, and explore the unique shops and cafes.
  
• Indulge in culinary delights at Mercado Central - this local covered market is a paradise for food enthusiasts. Feast your eyes (and palate) on a wide array of fresh produce, meats, spices, and local dishes. Affordable and delicious.
  
• Wander through Quito's beautiful green spaces - we suggest Parque La Carolina. Enjoy a tranquil paddle boat ride on the lake, savor a picnic on the lush lawns, or simply stroll through the park and watch the people of Quito go about their daily lives in this urban oasis.

This is a recommendation only.

Quito has many amazing viewpoints, which are great for getting to know the city and its stunning landscapes. Here's what we recommend:

• One of our favorite things to do in Quito is to take the TeleferiQo Cable Car which runs from the edge of the city centre up the east side of Pichincha Volcano, to the top of the Cruz Loma lookout. The gondola journey itself is incredibly scenic, but the views of Quito and the surrounding snow capped mountains at the top will take your breath away. On a clear day, the views are simply spectacular. Try the famous swing at the top! Remember to bring a jacket, as temperatures can drop at higher elevations.
  
• Climb to new heights at the Basilica del Voto Nacional, Quito's tallest building. Make your way to the rooftop of this magnificent Gothic church for breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

This is a recommendation only.

Inés Restaurant in Quito, led by Chef Juan Carlos Donoso Romero, offers a refined dining experience with a focus on contemporary Ecuadorian cuisine. Known for its elegant ambiance and creative dishes, it has quickly become a notable spot for both locals and visitors.

• Time: Afternoon
  
• Booked for: 2 people
  
• Booked under: will be provided
  
• Location: On property at your hotel

Booked by Scenset - to be paid locally.

Discover Quito's rich history and culture in its UNESCO-listed Historical Center, South America's largest and best-preserved. Explore cobblestone streets lined with Spanish-style residences and iconic landmarks like Plaza Grande. Visit the Archaeological and Art Museum "Casa del Alabado" to delve into Ecuador's Pre-Columbian past through over 400 artifacts, offering insights into indigenous beliefs and rituals that continue to shape modern-day Ecuador.

• Time: Afternoon
  
• Meeting point: Hotel Lobby
  
• Duration: 4 hours
  
• Contact: will be provided
  
• Tel: will be provided

Complimentary Experience. Booked by Scenset.

We recommend requesting a taxi from your hotel concierge, for your journey to Zazu.

Tonight, enjoy a fine dining experience at Zazu, masters in contemporary Ecuadorean cuisine.

• Time: Evening
  
• Booked under name: will be provided
  
• Number of people: 2
  
• Table: 1 table
  
• Address: Mariano Aguilera 331, Quito, 170517
  
• Number: will be provided

Booked by scenset - paid locally.

• Republican King Suite
  
• Confirmation number: will be provided
  
• Breakfast included

Greeting by your host at your hotel and private transfer to the airport for your flight to Baltra.

You’ll need to rise early this morning to catch your flight to the Galapagos. The flights to the Galapagos scenset in Quito and stop briefly in the port city of Guayaquil to take on passengers before heading on to the islands. For this itinerary, you will be landing on the island of Baltra.

• Time: Early morning
  
• Meeting point: Hotel Lobby
  
• Contact: will be provided
  
• Tel: will be provided

Booked by Scenset.

Domestic air tickets for the Galapagos are electronic. Boarding passes for your flight will be given locally at Quito airport.

On arrival at Quito airport, please head to the Galapagos Agricultural inspection station (SICGAL), where all your bags must be inspected. A representative will be at the airline check-in counters to meet you and assist you with check-in, as well as providing you with your important documents.

Enjoy complimentary VIP Services at Baltra Airport. This service includes fast-pass and assistance through immigration and security, as well as VIP lounge access.

Upon arrival, VIP staff will welcome you outside the terminal building. You can enjoy the VIP lounge while staff take care of your immigration procedures and luggage.

Services include an English-speaking host, VIP lounge access, snacks and soft beverages, and baggage claim assistance.

This is a special gift from Scenset!

Upon clearing Galapagos National Park inspection, your National Park Guide awaits, holding a sign with your yacht's name, ready to accompany you on a brief bus ride to the waterfront. Once a WWII US Air Force base, Baltra still bears remnants of that era's foundations. From there, a panga dinghy awaits to ferry you to the yacht, where the crew ensures your luggage is transferred to your cabin.

Included by Quasar Grace Yacht.

Upon arrival at Grace Yacht, you'll board and check in.

After settling in, you'll gather to review safety procedures and upcoming events with your guide as the Grace sets sail into the enchanting archipelago.

Please click the following link to access your welcome letter and itinerary: Welcome to Your Ecuador & Galapagos Adventure

Here is your booking confirmation for the cruise and flights. You can find these details.

• Cruise Information
  
• 24/7 Helpline
  
• Galapagos Flight Schedule and Information
  
• Airport Instructions

Your Pre-trip Information Document includes information about:

• Passport & vaccination requirements
  
• Clothing & equipment list
  
• What to expect onboard
  
• Gratuities
  
• Useful tips

Quasar offers a selection of wines, local beer, cocktails, spirits, soft drinks, juice, coffee, hot chocolate, water and tea onboard included in your cruise rate. Certain premium brands of wines, beer or spirits are not included and can be purchased onboard. To review the bar menu please visit this link. If you want premium wines, beer or spirits, you can pay for these as you go or open a tab.

As you step ashore on the pristine white sands of Bachas Beach, you are welcomed by the sight of blue-footed boobies patrolling the area. A short walk inland leads you to a serene lagoon, often home to pink flamingos, great blue herons, common stilts, brown noddies, white-cheeked pintail ducks, and various migratory birds. Snorkeling is done from the beach, allowing you to explore the vibrant marine life, and you can also enjoy a refreshing swim in the typically warmer waters of this picturesque Galapagos location.

Included by Quasar Grace Yacht.

• Grace Kelly Suite
  
• Confirmation number: will be provided
  
• All meals and drinks included

Genovesa Island, often called Bird Island, is a remote gem in the Galapagos archipelago. The journey begins at a stairway, leading to a plateau where red-footed boobies nest in bushes and masked boobies occupy the scrublands. As you traverse the sparse vegetation, you’ll reach a lava field teeming with petrels, including the Galapagos petrel and the nocturnal wooden petrel. Short-eared owls can be seen camouflaged, preying on the returning petrels.

After exploring the plateau, you’ll return to the vessel to prepare for snorkeling in the caldera's protected waters. Here, you will encounter large tropical fish such as parrotfish, unicorn fish, and schools of butterflyfish, along with the occasional fur sea lion. In the afternoon, kayaking in the calm bay waters provides an up-close view of the island's nesting birds, offering a serene complement to the earlier hike and snorkel adventures.

Included by Quasar Grace Yacht.

Stepping onto Darwin Bay's white coral sands unveils a bustling ecosystem teeming with great frigate birds, puffball chicks, and vibrant shore-dwelling species. Further exploration reveals hidden pools amidst rocky outcrops, offering encounters with marine iguanas, lava lizards, and Galapagos doves. Ascending towards the cliff's edge, swallow-tailed gulls nest precariously above the ocean-filled caldera, accompanied by lava gulls and pintail ducks.

A brief panga ride from the cliffs reveals a diverse avian population sheltering within basalt crevices, including red-billed tropicbirds. Beneath the waves, deep-water snorkeling offers glimpses of hammerheads and manta rays patrolling the caldera's depths. As dusk approaches, travelers may witness the majestic giant manta ray, setting the stage for further exploration across the Galapagos archipelago.

Included by Quasar Grace Yacht.

• Grace Kelly Suite
  
• Confirmation number: will be provided
  
• All meals and drinks included

Begin your morning adventure along the northwestern shore of Santiago Island at South James Bay (Puerto Egas). Here, three distinct sites await exploration. Walk along a black beach surrounded by intriguing eroded rock formations before crossing the dry interior to reach the rim of an extinct volcanic crater. Discover salt deposits formed from seawater seepage, a phenomenon noted by a famous naturalist. Further south, encounter crystal-clear grottos inhabited by sea lions and tropical fish. Witness fur sea lions lazing on the rocks, and explore inland lagoons where flamingos reside. Birdwatchers will delight in spotting vermilion flycatchers, Galapagos hawks, and the tool-wielding woodpecker finch. Puerto Egas offers perfect lighting for photography, with the surreal landscape coming alive at dawn and sunset. Snorkel at James Bay's sandy beach to encounter sea turtles and rays in their natural habitat.

Included by Quasar Grace Yacht.

In the afternoon, venture to Espumilla Beach for a birdwatching excursion along the mangroves, where common stilts and pink flamingos can be spotted. Traverse through a sparse Palo Santo forest, home to Galapagos finches and vermilion flycatchers. Marvel at the tuff formations that create cliffs surrounding Buccaneer's Cove, featuring natural sculptures like the Monk and Elephant Rock. Kayakers seeking adventure can navigate the dramatic routes offered by Buccaneer's Cove and Espumilla Beach, while seabirds watch from the surrounding cliffs.

Included by Quasar Grace Yacht.

• Grace Kelly Suite
  
• Confirmation number: will be provided
  
• All meals and drinks included

Begin your day at Punta Vicente Roca on Isabela Island's northern coast, where ancient volcanic remnants create two turquoise coves. Protected from ocean swells, the area serves as a popular anchorage for panga rides along the cliff. Encounter masked and blue-footed boobies, flightless cormorants, and sea lions inhabiting the shoreline. Delve into the underwater passage leading to a hidden cove, where sea lions bask on the beach. Dive into the deep waters for snorkeling, where sea lions, turtles, spotted eagle rays, and manta rays await. As you depart southward, keep watch for whales in the Bolivar channel, known as the best spot in the islands for whale sightings.

Included by Quasar Grace Yacht.

Venture north along Isabela Island's western coast to Tagus Cove, historically used as an anchorage for pirates and whalers. Explore the cove's sheltered cliffs on a serene panga ride, observing nesting blue-footed boobies, brown noddies, and pelicans. Ascend a wooden stairway to witness Darwin Lake, a saltwater crater barely separated from the ocean. Embark on a trail offering panoramic views of Darwin Volcano and Wolf Volcano. Dive into the underwater pasture of green algae for snorkeling, encountering marine iguanas, sea turtles, Galapagos penguins, and rare flightless cormorants. Kayakers can paddle around the cove, enjoying views of nesting birds on the cliff walls above.

Included by Quasar Grace Yacht.

• Grace Kelly Suite
  
• Confirmation number: will be provided
  
• All meals and drinks included

Embark on an adventure to Fernandina Island's Punta Espinosa, the Galapagos' youngest and westernmost island. Navigate through the reef with skilled panga drivers as penguins dive into turquoise waters. Encounter red and turquoise-blue zayapas crabs and great blue and lava herons along the lava shoreline. Explore a large marine iguana colony, affectionately referred to as "Godzilla's children," basking atop rocky shores. Witness flightless cormorants and sea lions in a sheltered lagoon, with the summit of La Cumbre towering overhead. Snorkel among marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, Galapagos penguins, and sea lions, experiencing the ocean's diverse ecosystem.

Included by Quasar Grace Yacht.

Travel westward to Urbina Bay, nestled beneath a volcano. Make a wet landing onto a gently sloping beach, where filmmakers once encountered an uplifted marine reef. Walk among dried coral heads and mollusks, marveling at the vivid yellow skin of giant land iguanas. Encounter giant tortoises during the wet season and nesting sea turtles on the landing beach. Relax onshore or snorkel among tropical fish hiding among the rocks. As evening falls, witness a breathtaking sunset surrounded by towering shield volcanoes from the yacht's anchor in the Bolivar Channel. Keep watch for whales and dolphins while enjoying happy hour at the Sky Lounge on the upper rear deck.

Included by Quasar Grace Yacht.

• Grace Kelly Suite
  
• Confirmation number: will be provided
  
• All meals and drinks included

Embark on a journey south along Isabela's west coast to Elizabeth Bay, where a tall rocky islet hosts a colony of Galapagos Penguins against the backdrop of Sierra Negra volcano. Explore the bay aboard small boats, navigating through a maze of mangroves that line the calm waters like a giant aquarium. Encounter spotted eagle rays, golden rays, and sea turtles gliding beneath the surface, with Galapagos hawks soaring overhead. Witness the unique sight of sea lions resting on mangrove trunks, earning them the nickname "tree lions."

Included by Quasar Grace Yacht.

Return to the yacht for lunch before venturing to Punta Moreno, where life thrives amidst Pahoehoe lava fields. Witness the aftermath of a recent volcano eruption, with fresh lava coating the landscape. Encounter Galapagos penguins, flightless cormorants, and marine iguanas with a reddish tinge along the shore. Hike across broken lava fields to discover natural pools surrounded by green grasses, home to a variety of bird species including pink flamingos and pintail ducks. Explore coastal lagoons teeming with white-tipped reef sharks and green sea turtles, with snorkeling opportunities offering encounters with sea lions and colorful marine life above rocky bottoms.

Included by the yacht.

• Grace Kelly Suite
  
• Confirmation number: will be provided
  
• All meals and drinks included

Begin your day in Puerto Villamil, a picturesque fishing village nestled amidst the outer edge of Sierra Negra Volcano. Explore Las Tintoreras, home to colonies of sea lions, Galapagos turtles, and iguanas, alongside skates, sharks, and penguins. Marvel at the intricate interactions of native flora and fauna in this serene habitat. Continue to Cuevas del Sucre, where fascinating lava formations, caves, and tunnels await exploration within an endemic forest.

Included by Quasar Grace Yacht.

Before embarking on an afternoon navigation, visit a breeding station for endemic giant tortoises led by the National Park Service. Explore a hyper-saline lagoon frequented by flamingos and other wading birds, offering a glimpse into the rich biodiversity of the Galapagos. Prepare for an afternoon journey to Santa Cruz Island, rounding off a day filled with natural wonders and wildlife encounters.

Included by Quasar Grace Yacht.

• Grace Kelly Suite
  
• Confirmation number: will be provided
  
• All meals and drinks included

This morning, say goodbye to the Grace before enjoying a 40 minute bus journey to Los Gemelos.

The terrestrial world of the tortoise and underworld of the lava tubes meet at Los Gemelos (the twins). These two large sinkholes craters were formed by collapsed lava tubes. The contrast between the marine desert coast and verdant Lost World look of the highlands is most striking here and you can easily encounter rain even when sun is shining a half an hour away at the coast.

Los Gemelos are surrounded by a Scalesia forest. Scalesia is endemic to Galapagos and many endemic and native species call the forest home. This is an excellent place to view some of Darwin’s famous finches along with the elusive and dazzling vermillion flycatcher.

Included by Quasar Grace Yacht.

After visiting Los Gemelos, you'll continue the bus journey for another 20 minutes to Baltra airport, ready to catch your flight to Quito.

Included by Quasar Grace Yacht.

Enjoy complimentary VIP Services at Baltra Airport. This service includes fast-pass and assistance through immigration and security, as well as access to the VIP lounge.

Please head to the Information Desk at the Departures Terminal, which includes a dedicated lane for immigration & security procedures. You'll also have access to the VIP Lounge, snacks, and soft beverages (certain snacks and alcoholic beverages will be provided).

This is a special gift from Scenset!

Enjoy the convenience of a private vehicle and guide for your last day in Quito, allowing you to explore the city, savor a leisurely meal, and seamlessly transition before your flight.

• Time: Afternoon
  
• Meeting point: Arrivals gate
  
• Contact: will be provided
  
• Tel: will be provided

Booked by Scenset.

Your guide will transfer you to Chazca in the afternoon, ready for your lunch reservation.

In the heart of Cumbayá, nestled within the vibrant city of Quito, Ecuador, lies Chazca—an exquisite culinary haven where flavors intertwine to create a symphony for the senses. At Chazca, indulge in a culinary journey that celebrates the rich heritage of Ecuadorian cuisine, blending fresh, locally sourced ingredients with innovative techniques and traditional recipes.

• Time: Afternoon
  
• Address: Av Pampite Oe 4-182, Quito 170902, Ecuador
  
• Booked under: will be provided
  
• Number of people: 2

Booked by Scenset - paid locally.

After lunch, your guide will take you to The Paqocha Project in the Scenic Cumbayá Valley.

Nestled amid the idyllic Cumbayá valley, the Paqocha project embodies the unwavering commitment of local women to the mastery of alpaca wool textiles. Each creation is a testament to their passion, meticulously crafted by hand using organic materials, with vibrant hues achieved through natural vegetable dyes.

Conveniently located just a brief 20-minute drive from the airport, the Paqocha showroom invites visitors to delve into the time-honored tradition and intricate artistry woven into every textile masterpiece.

Complimentary Experience. Booked by Scenset.

Your guide will take you to Ciré Cumbayá for your dinner reservation.

• Time: Evening
  
• Booked under name: will be provided
  
• Number of people: 2
  
• Table: 1 table
  
• Address: Parque Central de Cumbayá, García Moreno 425 y, Quito 170901, Ecuador

Booked by Scenset - paid locally.

Once at Quito airport, staff will assist you with immigration procedures and access to the VIP lounge until it is time to board your flight.

Enjoy complimentary access to the VIP lounge.