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A VERY SPECIAL ALL-INCLUSIVE CUSTOM-DESIGNED

TOUR HOSTED BY DICK WEST AND STEPHEN WESTON

OPTIONAL EXTENSION PROGRAM TO MACHU PICCHU

2012


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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Ecuador.. 3

Galapagos Islands ... 4

Best of Historic Ecuador Tour . 5

Galapagos Islands Cruise ... 8

Prices 11

Galapagos Explorer II Deck Plan.... 12

Extension Tour to Peru ... 13

General Information ... 15

A NEW CONCEPT IN "PURPOSEFUL" TRAVEL

Over the course of more than 40 years in the travel, tour and cruise industry I have developed a sense of wha

possible to deliver to our guests, and what they value. There is certainly a full range of products and service

in the vacation travel world.

When people travel for vacation or pleasure, as opposed to business or visiting friends and relatives, they are ofte

doing so with the expectation to have memorable experiences.

I have discovered, and helped develop, a small niche travel segment that appeals to well-educated travelers who

are looking for authentic experiences with meaningful opportunities to learn about the destinations visited. Many

people travel to learn something about their world, to have life enriching experiences that create lasting memories

have found that these travel experiences are far more memorable and enjoyable when there is an element of

learning and insight that comes from interpretation that makes the experience more meaningful. I have decided

use the term purposeful to describe this style of travel.

Purposeful travel implies intent to engage oneself with the destination, not just visit. The underlying purpose o

travel is to learn more about our worldand ourselves. A traveler may see many sights, but they do not become

meaningful unless they are explained, or interpreted. I have found that this interpretation is the key to memorable

experiences. We have a great team of Explor Leaders who are eager to assist in this endeavor. As I am developin

this next stage in my travel career, I want to fulfill dreams and expectations of my guests, and provide lastingmemories through meaningful, purposeful travel.

As I have found that small ships are most conducive to providing interaction with remote destinations, they will be

used where possible. Purposeful travel components on land will complement the cruises. These will be all-

inclusive programs, but with certain choices such as hotel preferences in some areas. I realize some guests will

prefer the comfort of a familiar brand hotel, such as Hilton, where they know what they will get elevators, standa

amenities, restaurants on site. Others would prefer more immersion in the destination by staying at smaller boutiq

hotels some without elevators, such as Boutique Hotel Mansion del Angel and others with elevators, such as

Anahi Boutique Hotel both in Quito. I have personally researched the hotels, restaurants and attractions to prov

the best possible experience, and the best value for my guests.

I look forward to sharing our enthralling discoveries with you.

Dick West, Founder and Experience Planner


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The Galapagos Islands

Situated 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the archipelago consistsof nineteen islands and more than forty islets, which were created

six million years ago when they emerged from the Pacific in a flurry ofvolcanic activity.

The islands were discovered in 1535 by Toms de Berlanga, who sentthe first known description of the Galapagos to the King of Spain - "

nothing but seals, and turtles, and such big tortoises that each couldcarry a man on top of itself, and many iguanas that are like serpents".He also remarked on the tameness of the creatures; "many birds likethose of Spain, but so silly that they do not know to flee, and many werecaught in the hand."

The most important visitor to the Galapagos Islands was Charles Darwin, who arrived in 1835 on board the Beagle. He wasamazed by the extraordinary life he found on the islands, and obtained very important samples and facts to inspire and develhis theory of evolution and natural selection. In fact, he was responsible for bringing the Galapagos to the world's attention in1859, when he published The Origin of Species.

TheGalpagos Islands(official name:Archipilago de Coln) are an archipelagoofvolcanic islandsdistributed aroundtheequatorin thePacific Ocean, 972km (525nm) west of continentalEcuador, of which they are a part. Wildlife is its most

notable feature.

The Galpagos Islands and its surrounding waters form anEcuadorian province, anational park, and abiological marinereserve. The principal language on the islands is Spanish. The islands have a population of around 23,000.

The islands are geologically young and famed for their vast number ofendemic species, which were studied byCharlesDarwinduringthe voyage of theBeagle. His observations and collections contributed to theinception of Darwin'stheoryofevolutionbynatural selection.

The first crudenavigation chartof the islands was done by thebuccaneerAmbrose Cowleyin 1684. He named the individualislands after some of his fellowpiratesor after the English noblemen who helped the privateer's cause. More recently, theEcuadorian government gave most of the islands Spanish names. While the Spanish names are official, many users (especiaecological researchers) continue to use the older English names, particularly as those were the names used when Charles

Darwin

visited.

YOUR SHIP GALAPAGOS EXPLORER II

The Galapagos Explorer II, orGE II, is by far the largest, most comfortable and luxurious of all Galapagosships. Accommodating a maximum of just 100 guests, the GE IIwas built for comfortable ocean cruising,

and is a sister ship of the formerSpirit of Oceanus, one of the worlds finest expedition ships. A crew of 70(an incredible 1.4 to 1 ratio) looks after all your safety, comfort, dining and intellectually stimulating needs.There is ample room throughout the ship and on the open decks.Enjoy two hot tub spas, a shaded outdoor seating area, and an uppersun deck to relax. A masseuse is available to ease your tired body

after a day of exploration. An elevator serves all five decks.

A fleet of 6 zodiacs efficiently transports small groups to the remoteislands with their English speaking naturalist guides. Daily recaps andpresentations take place in the spacious and comfortable lounge.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Archipelagohttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Archipelagohttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Island#Volcanic_islandshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Island#Volcanic_islandshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Equatorhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Equatorhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pacific_Oceanhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ecuadorhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gal%C3%A1pagos_Provincehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galapagos_National_Parkhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galapagos_Marine_Reservehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galapagos_Marine_Reservehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Endemic_specieshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_Darwinhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_Darwinhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_Darwinhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_voyage_of_HMS_Beaglehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_voyage_of_HMS_Beaglehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_voyage_of_HMS_Beaglehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_voyage_of_HMS_Beaglehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inception_of_Darwin%27s_theoryhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inception_of_Darwin%27s_theoryhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inception_of_Darwin%27s_theoryhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Evolutionhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Evolutionhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Natural_selectionhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nautical_charthttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nautical_charthttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buccaneerhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buccaneerhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ambrose_Cowleyhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ambrose_Cowleyhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Piratehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Piratehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_Darwinhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_Darwinhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_Darwinhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_Darwinhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_Darwinhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Piratehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ambrose_Cowleyhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buccaneerhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nautical_charthttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Natural_selectionhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Evolutionhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inception_of_Darwin%27s_theoryhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inception_of_Darwin%27s_theoryhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_voyage_of_HMS_Beaglehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_Darwinhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_Darwinhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Endemic_specieshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galapagos_Marine_Reservehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galapagos_Marine_Reservehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galapagos_National_Parkhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gal%C3%A1pagos_Provincehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ecuadorhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pacific_Oceanhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Equatorhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Island#Volcanic_islandshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Archipelago


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DAILY ITINERARY:

Day 1 Monday- Arrive Quito, UNESCOs first World Heritage City (1978). Our English speaking guide wimeet you outside immigration in the arrival hall. Transfer to choice of hotel - Hilton Colon Quito; Anahi Boutique

Hotel; Boutique Hotel Mansion del Angel.

Day 2 Tuesday -Tour to the Middle of the World. (B, L, D)

Today you will visit the Center of the World at the equator. You will see much of the

long, narrow city along the way. After Lunch, you will visit Historic Quito and many of

its famous site and buildings. Tonight enjoy a sparkling city lights dinner.

The Best of Historic Ecuador, and Galapagos Islands CruiseThe Best of Historic Ecuador, and Galapagos Islands Cruise

2012 GROUP DEPARTURES - MONDAYS - June 11; August 06; November 12

12 Days/11 Nights From $6595 per person/double occupancy

This is an experience of a lifetime!

Make your plans to travel with Dick West, founder of Explor Cruises, and Stephen Westoworld renowned marine naturalist, on this adventure to the beautiful and historic

highlands of Ecuador and the fabled Galapagos Islands.

DISCOVER THREEUNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES-QUITO, CUENCA and the GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

INTRODUCING :

OUR INAUGURAL SEASONS SPECIAL GROUP* DEPARTURES

WITH DICK WEST AND STEPHEN WESTON[*NOTE: This program is available on an individual basis any day throughout the year with various ships and yachts.]

QUITO

The capital of Ecuador has a setting that few cities can match. During the 13th century it was the prosperous center ofthe Kingdom of Quitus. It later became the northern capital of the Inca Empire.

In the 16th and 17th centuries, Colonial architects built formidable temples, monasteries and mansions, creating an urbanjewel designated by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage Site. Quito's artistic creativity awaits the visitor in cosmopolitagalleries and boutiques filled with contemporary paintings, sculptures and exquisitetraditional crafts.

Any stay in Quito must include a visit to the Colonial sector, the old and charming citywith400 years of Spanish heritage. Also, visit the Center of the World, the very center ofthe earth, at latitude 0.
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OTAVALOT

he Otavalos are a people and culture indigenous to the Valley of Otavalo, in theProvince of Imbabura in Northern Ecuador. In 1495 the Otavalo area was

conquered by the Inca Empire and in turn conquered by the Spanish Conquistadors in1535. The Otavalos are a very prosperous community of skilled textile weavers, whogather to sell their products at the market in the city of Otavalo as they have done forcenturies, as regional markets have played an important role in Indian life, providingregular gathering places for trade and socializing. Today, increasing numbers ofOtavalos have also been traveling overseas to sell their handcrafts in Europe andNorth America.

The Otavalos are proud of their cultural heritage, hardworking people

who have managed to overcome poverty without changing their way of life, theirtraditions or their dress, while at the same time taking advantage of technologicaladvances.

A major aspect of the Otavalo Indian ethnic identity is their native dress. For men thisconsists of a blue poncho, white shirt and calf-length trousers, a fedora-type hat andtheir hair combed in a long braid. Women dress in embroidered blouses, blue skirtsand shawls plus several layers of golden necklaces and red bead bracelets. Both menand women wear "alpargatas", a type of sandal. Otavalos speak Kichwa, their nativelanguage, even though today most also speak, Spanish and even English. Otavalo iscurrently considered one of the most important tour destinations in Ecuador, due to its ancestral cultural heritage, enriched bmillenary traditions, myths, legends and customs together with Andean landscapes of outstanding beauty: mountains, lakes

waterfallsand rivers that, as per the Otavalo Cosmovision, possess life and energy.

Day 3 Wednesday-Tour to Otavalo (B, L, D)Visit one of South Americas largest handicraft markets, and then to Peguche, one of the wealthiest towns in the

Otavalo Valley. The artisans here are renowned weavers, creating beautiful tapestries, rugs, blankets and clothing.

After lunch, visit the leather craft center of Cotacachi where you will find dozens of leather stores selling all kinds o

locally produced leather goods. Dinner and a quiet and restful overnight at the 300-year old Hacienda Cusin.

Day 4 Thursday Visit to Rose Farm and Fly to Cuenca (B, L, D)

Today you will visit one of Ecuadors largest rose farms, exporting over 15 million roses a year. Enjoy a tour andlunch in the historic hacienda of the rose farm family. After lunch transfer to Quito Airport for your flight to Cuenca

the second World Heritage city in Ecuador. Transfer to your hotel; enjoy some free time and a wonderful dinner at a

nearby restaurant.

This morning we visit one of

Ecuadors largest rose growers.

This family-owned farm (Rosadex)

exports over 15 million stems a year.

Learn about the science and art of

cultivating long stem roses for cut flow

markets around the world. You will

understand just why Ecuadorian roses

are considered the worlds best.


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Day 5 Friday -Historic Cuenca (B, L, D)

Enjoy an informative walking tour of Historic Cuenca City Center. Visit the public market, beautiful churches and

cathedrals, charming streets.

After lunch, you will visit the world

famous Panama hat factory of

Homero Ortego, so named because

of their popularity with workers

during the construction of the

Panama Canal. Then visit a local

pottery artist at his studio, with a

great panoramic view of the city.

Dinner will be at a local restaurant.

CUENCAE

cuador's most beautiful city, Saint Anne of the Four Rivers of Cuenca, is located in the valley of Guapondelig (plain aswide as the sky). At an altitude of 2,550 meters (7,650 feet) above sea level, Cuenca enjoys a mild climate and a

fabulous geographic position. Surrounding the city of Cuenca are hills like Cullca to the north and Turi to the south, which agreat lookout points. Cuenca has the placid atmosphere of a small city, bothdeeply religious and artistic, which fascinates the visitor. The beauty of itslandscape combined with the harmony between old and modernarchitecture, has prompted, UNESCO to name Ecuador's third largest city,Cuenca,a World Cultural Heritage Site.

Houses stretch down the slopes along the Tomebamba, one of the fourrivers that cross Cuenca, whose banks are covered with multicoloredlaundry under the riverside willows and linden trees. Both the Hispaniccolonial downtown and the new homes in the residential neighborhoods,show how Cuenca keeps traditions of bygone eras close to its heart, butaccepts the presence of modernity that abound in the city: new hotels,banks, art galleries and shops. Cuenca's cobblestone streets, gracefulbalconies, blossoming gardens and religious art treasures invite you to visitit, on foot and at aleisurely pace.

Cuenca's handicrafts are outstanding in variety, color and quality.Thesetreasures, inspired by local imagination are created in straw, horn, cloth,

embroidery, knit, clay, wrought iron, leather as well as gold and silverjewelry.

The region of Cuenca was already inhabited nine thousand years ago. TheCaari people settled here due to its favorable climate, abundant water andideal land for cultivation. Extraordinary pieces of ceramic of this period,notable for their design and technique, are to be found in the museums. Inthe middle of the 15th century, the Incas came to this area and founded thecity they called Tomebamba and a few years later, in 1557, the Spanishclaimed the city and renamed it Cuenca.


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.Day 7 Sunday (B, L, D)

Bartolome Island (Bartholomew)

Perhaps the most photographed location in the

entire archipelago, the rock pinnacle, that is one

of the most recognized landscapes of the islands.

Climb up a wooden staircase to the summit for a

stunning viewof two

beautiful

bays. You

can observe

fascinating

formations of

lava flows

and spatter

cones. Many

have called

this island"an open Geology textbook". Sea lions and penguins can

be seen around Pinnacle Rock. There is a sandy beach

with great swimming and snorkeling. This is one of those

selected locations where seeing penguins in tropical

waters can be a revealing discovery. It is an extinct

volcano and has a variety of soils red, orange, green,

black and shiny volcanic formations.

After lunch explore Espumilla beach, Santiago Island.

ISABELA ISLAND (Albemarle)

This island was named in honor of Queen

Isabela, and is the largest island in the

Archipelago. It was formed by six large volcanoes

which flowed together. It is also one of the

youngest of the Galapagos Islands, and a

marvelous world within itself. The third-largest

human settlement of the archipelago, Puerto

Villamil, is located at the southeastern tip of the

island. It is the only island to have the equator runacross it. It is also the only place in the world where

a penguin can be in its natural habitat in the

Northern Hemisphere.

This morning explore Punta Vicente Roca.


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Day 8 Monday (B, L, D)

Day 9 Tuesday (B, L, D)

ISABELA ISLAND -

This morning explore Tagus Cove

After lunch explore Bahia Elizabeth

Day 10 Wednesday (B, L, D)

FLOREANA ISLAND (Charles)

FERNANDINA ISLAND (Narborough)

The name was given in honor of King Ferdinand II of Aragon, who sponsored the voyage of Columbus. The youngest islands, Isabela and Fernandina, are still being formed, with the most recent volcanic eruption

in April 2009, where lava from the volcanic island Fernandina started flowing both towards the island's shorelineand into the center caldera.Walk among the hundreds of marine iguanas on black lava rocks. See flightless cormorants, penguins, pelicans,

sea lions and mangrove forests. The walking grounds will reveal the beautiful shapes of lava once it has cooledoff. At this location, few rocks are more than 400 years old. Fernandina's colossal dome shape can enchantanyone who visits it for its perhaps the most remote island in the Pacific.Fernandina Island is one of the most pristine ecosystems in the entire world and also one of themost dynamic. La Cumbre Volcano last erupted in April 2009, and also dominates the landscape, with lavafields stretching towards the ocean from its base. Punta Espinoza is a narrow piece of land where some ofthe most unique Galapagos species can be seen, including the flightless cormorant, Galapagos snakes,marine iguanas, penguins and the Galapagos hawk.

Disembark (dry landing) for a one-mile walk over dark lava. Punta Espinoza has an amazing combination ofbarrenness and a lot of wildlife. Having no introduced mammals, Fernandina boasts a very unique environmentwith the highest density of marine iguanas, sharing their space with sea lions, sally-light foot crabs, hawks,penguins and the flightless cormorant.

After lunch explore Punta Espinoza.

It was named after Juan Jos Flores, the first President of Ecuador, during whose administration the governmentof Ecuador took possession of the archipelago.

Floreanais one of the Galapagos most famous islands due to many strange stories regarding past settlers. Thefirst governor of Galpagos, General Jos de Villamil, brought a group of convicts to populate the island ofFloreana, and in October 1832, some artisans and farmers joined them.

There are many wonderful and diverse sites to visit including Post Office Bay and the Baronesss Viewing Point.Marine life also abounds in Floreanas coastal waters making it a fantastic site for snorkeling. Flamingos alsopopulate the island and may be seen during your visit. It is one of the four inhabited Galapagos Islands.

The Baronesss Viewing Point is the perfect place to take in the special environment that defines Floreana, anda great spot to talk and ponder regarding the intriguing history of the Baroness and her three lovers! Difficultylevel: Easy.

In the 18th century whalers passing through the islands placed a wooden barrel on Floreana Island for use as anunofficial mail box. The tradition continues today as visitors leave addressed postcards in the barrel and sortthrough left mail to deliver at home. This is one of the archipelagos most famous spots. Dont forget to look inyour logbook for your postcards! During the early 20th century, the island became a kind of promised land formany Norwegian citizens who arrived in search of a better life.

This morning explore Post Office, and after lunch a choice of excursions


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San Cristbal (Chatham) Island

Bears the name of the patron saint of seafarers, "St. Christopher". Its English name was given afterWilliamPitt, 1st Earl of Chatham. It has an area of 215 sq. mi (558 square kilometers) and its highest point rises to

2395ft. (730 meters). This is the first island in the Galapagos Archipelago Charles Darwin visited during hisvoyage on theBeagle.

This island hostsfrigate birds,sea lions, giant tortoises, blue- and red-footedboobies,marine iguanas,

dolphinsand

swallow

-tailed gulls. There is a turtle farm and refuge of Giant Turtles La Galapaguera.

Its vegetation includesCalandrinia Galapagos, Lecocarpus darwinii, and trees such asLignum vitae. The largestfreshwater lake in the archipelago, Laguna El Junco, is located in the highlandsof San Cristbal. The capital ofthe province of Galpagos,Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, lies at the southern tip of the island, along with one of twoairports serving the islands from the mainland.

.This morning explore the Galapaguera - Cerro Colorado, after lunch Ochoa Beach.

SANTA CRUZ ISLAND (Indefatigable)

Santa Cruz (Indefatigable) Island Given the name of the Holy Cross in Spanish, its English name derivesfrom the British vesselHMS Indefatigable. It has an area of 381 sq. mi (986 square kilometers) and a

maximum altitude of 2834ft. (864 meters). Santa Cruz hosts the largest human population in the archipelago, thetown ofPuerto Ayora.

The Charles Darwin Research Station(CDRS) and the headquarters of the Galpagos National Park Service(GNPS) are located here.

In the morning explore The Twins, then transfer to Baltra airport for your included flight to Guayaquil.

Connect to homebound flight, extend your stay in Ecuador, or continue on our Peru Tour to MachuPicchu, Cuenca and Lima.

Day 11 Thursday (B, L, D)

Day 12 Friday (B)

TOUR PRICES:

ECU-3 Special GroupDepartures

PerPerson

Double

Single

Occupancy

RENAISSANCE BALCONY- ELITE

$8,195

$12,395

MAJESTICBALCONY - ELITE $7,995 $11,995

DELUXE BALCONY $7,495 $11,195

RENAISSANCE PANORAMIC SUITE $7,195 $10,695

CLASSIC $6,595 $9,395

RATES INCLUDE:

Meals as indicated

Gratuies for land and ship

Tour fees/permits/taxes

Airfare Quito-Cuenca/Cuenca-

Baltra/Baltra-Guayaquil

$50 Shipboard credit

NOT INCLUDED:

Airfare to/from Ecuador

Unknown Fuel Surcharges/fees
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Crist%C3%B3bal_Islandhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Crist%C3%B3bal_Islandhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Pitt,_1st_Earl_of_Chathamhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St._Christopherhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Pitt,_1st_Earl_of_Chathamhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Pitt,_1st_Earl_of_Chathamhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frigatebirdhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sea_lionhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boobyhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marine_iguanahttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dolphinhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dolphinhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swallow-tailed_gullhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swallow-tailed_gullhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swallow-tailed_gullhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Highland_(geography)http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Highland_(geography)http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puerto_Baquerizo_Morenohttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santa_Cruz_Island_(Gal%C3%A1pagos)http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santa_Cruz_Island_(Gal%C3%A1pagos)http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HMS_Indefatigable_(1784)http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puerto_Ayorahttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_Darwin_Research_Stationhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_Darwin_Research_Stationhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_Darwin_Research_Stationhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puerto_Ayorahttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HMS_Indefatigable_(1784)http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santa_Cruz_Island_(Gal%C3%A1pagos)http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santa_Cruz_Island_(Gal%C3%A1pagos)http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puerto_Baquerizo_Morenohttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Highland_(geography)http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swallow-tailed_gullhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dolphinhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marine_iguanahttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boobyhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sea_lionhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frigatebirdhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Pitt,_1st_Earl_of_Chathamhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Pitt,_1st_Earl_of_Chathamhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St._Christopherhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Crist%C3%B3bal_Island


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Renaissance Panoramic Suite

Classic Suite - Magellan Deck

Classic Suite - Columbus/Marco Polo

BALCONY SUITE

ACCOMODATIONS -

All suites feature beds in either queen or twin configuration, vanity, mini bar/refrigerator, safe, flat screen TV, large bathrooms and closets.

Setting a new standard of luxury in 2012, the Renaissance Balcony and MajesticBalcony suites will include 24 hour butler service, a bottle of champagne in thesuite upon arrival, a choice of a variety of pillows, environmentally friendly beachbag, assistance for unpacking your luggage (upon request), luxurious bathrobes,linens and towels, room service available all day up to 11:00pm, soft drinkbeverages from the mini bar, and more.


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PERU

With a history of over ten thousand years, Peru is a country rich in cultural heritage, traditionsand mysticism. The Inca Empire was so large that it reached the current countries of

Colombia, Ecuador, Chile, Bolivia and Argentina, with Cusco as its capital city. The Empire cameto an end with the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors in 1532, who established the vice royalty ofPeru, lasting for almost 300 years until 1821 when Peru got its independence, giving birth to theRepublican era.

LIMA

L

ima is the capital and the largest city of Peru, with almost 9 million inhabitants, making it the

fifth largest city in Latin America. It is located in the central part of the country, on a desertcoast overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Lima was founded by Spanish conquistador FranciscoPizarro on January 18, 1535, as la Ciudad de los Reyes, or "the City of Kings". It became thecapital and most important city in the Spanish Viceroyalty of Peru.

THE CENTER OF THE ANDEAN WORLD

The city of Cusco, meaning "navel of the world" inQuechua, was the capital of the Incas Empire. The city is known as thearchaeological center of the Americas, and which UNESCO declared a World

Heritage Site in 1983.

Although the area was settled centuries before the Incas arrived, it was only duringthe period of Inca control (1438-1532AD) that the Huantanay River basin, uponwhich Cusco is built, reached its peak as an administrative, religious and militarycenter. This development is attributed to the Inca Emperor Pachacutec, who builtthe citys most remarkable structures. The city served as a hub for a vast network ofroads interconnecting the whole of South America, from the southern part of presentday Colombia to the northern part of what is now Argentina. The origins of the cityare shrouded in myth and legends which tell the tale of how the Inca Empire cameinto being.

SACRED VALLEY

The Sacred Valley of the Incas, or Urubamba Valley, is a setting of picturesquecommunities, impressive terraces and several important archaeological sites.

Today the Sacred Valley remains a lush agricultural region supplying the city of

Cusco with much of its produce such as maize, fruit and vegetables.

MACHU PICCHU

Situated in an enclave on the saddle of a mountain, just a few hours from Cusco, overlooking the deep canyon of theUrubamba River, Machu Picchu consists of two main areas: one agricultural, formed mainly by mountains and food

stores, and the other urban, which is noted for its sacred zone, with its temples, squares and royal tombs built of stone cutwith incredible skill. Opposite the citadel is the majestic Huayna Picchu Mountain, which is visible looming in the backgroundin typical photos of the site.

The Incas built this citadel at the end of thefourteenth century. As centuries passed, the sitebecame totally overgrown by vegetation, andvirtually disappeared from site. Hiram Bingham,Director of the Yale Peruvian Expedition,rediscovered Machu Picchu in 1911. MachuPicchu, a mystic place of worship, was also aspot for star-gazing and the private hacienda ofthe Inca Emperor Pachacutec.As a result of aspecial connection with the people, in July 2007,it was recognized as one of the Seven NewWonders of the World.


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This tour itinerary is specially designed to provide a rich and rewarding experience, with as littleimpact and fatigue from the altitude as possible. The tour begins with several days at the lower

elevations of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu prior to visiting Cusco, allowing for adjustmento the altitude. This is just one of the details we pay attention to on behalf of our guests.

DAILY ITINERARY:

Day 1 Saturday Upon arrival in Guayaquil from the Galapagos Islands, you will be met by your English speaking guide who

will accompany you to the Hilton Colon Guayaquil. Dinner tonight will be at a local restaurant. (B, D)

Day 2 Sunday Morning transfer to airport.Fly to historic Cusco, historic Inca capital, UNESCO World Heritage Site, and

gateway to the Inca sites of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. Transfer to the beautiful Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel in

Urubamba. The afternoon is free to relax, enjoy a spa treatment, or other optional activities. (B, L, D)

Day 3 Monday This morning tour the Sacred Valley and to the market at Pisac. After lunch visit the remarkable fortress at

Ollantaytambo. Return to your hotel. (B, L, D)

Day 4 Tuesday Transfer to the train station for the trip to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival check into the Inkaterra Machu Picch

Afternoon is free to explore, participate in programs, have a spa treatment, or just relax. (B, L, D)

Day 5 -Wednesday Early risers may choose to hike to the Sun Gate to watch the sun rise over the ruins at Machu Picchu.

This morning we will have a guided tour through the grounds. Return to your hotel for lunch. Afternoon is free to return toMachu Picchu, explore Aguas Calientes, enjoy a spa treatment, or participate in one of the enrichment programs at the hotel

(B, L, D)

Day 6 Thursday After breakfast, board the train for your trip back to Ollantaytambo and return to Cusco and your hotel th

Aranwa Cusco Boutique Hotel. At almost 11,000 feet above sea level, all rooms at this

luxury hotel are equipped with an intelligent oxygen system, which ensures maximum

comfort for guests. This additional 30% oxygen results in a reduction in the sense of

altitude. Along the way we will visit other incredible Inca sites. (B, L, D)

Day 7 Friday The tour today will introduce you to the 800 year old capital of the Inca

civilization. The Spanish arrived in 1534 and named the city Cusco. The first cathedral

built in Cusco is the

Iglesia del Triunfo, built in 1539 on the foundations of the PalaceofViracocha Inca. The main basilica cathedral of the city was built between 1560 and

1664. Stone was used as the main material, which was extracted from nearby quarries

although some blocks of red granite were taken from the Inca fortress known as

Sacsayhuamn. (B, L, D)

Day 8 Saturday Transfer to the airport for a mid-day flight to Lima, where you will

enjoy a city tour including the historic city center, designated a UNESCO World Heritag

Site. The tour ends at the elegant Mira Flores Park Orient Express Hotel with sweepin

ocean vistas. Tonight is our farewell dinner at a unique Lima restaurant. (B, L, D)

Day 9 Sunday Transfer to the Lima airport for your flight home.

9 Days/8 Nights RATES PER PERSON:

DOUBLE- $2,995 SINGLE- $3,995

AIR GYE-CUZ-LIM (EST) $800 per person

EXTRA NIGHT LIMA -MIRAFLORES PARK HOTEL $154 Per Person DBL / $308 SGL

VISIT THREE MORE UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES

ON THIS EXTENSION TOUR TO PERU LIMA, CUSCO AND MACHU PICCHU
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Viracocha_(Inca)http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Viracocha_(Inca)


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GENERAL INFORMATION

To make a reservation, ask a question, or simply share your comments, please see your travelagent, or Call TOLL FREE 1.855.EXPLOR1 (1.855.397.5671)

E-Mail: [email protected] Fax 1.888.889.4206

PAYMENTS

A $500 per person depositis required in order to hold a reservation.

Final payment is due 90 days priorto departure, or at time of booking if within 90-days prior to a tours start date.

TRAVEL INSURANCE AND FORM OF PAYMENT

EXPLOR CRUISES WILL AUTOMATICALLY INCLUDE TRAVEL GUARDS GOLD PLAN, the most popular andcomprehensive travel coverage available. Recognizing that operator financial default is a concern for all travelers thesedays, Explor Cruises will pay for this comprehensive plan coverage (up to a maximum premium cost of $1,000 per person)which includes operator financial default when cruise and tour payment is made by check, rather than by credit card. Thesefunds will be deposited and maintained in a special EXPLOR CRUISES Customer Escrow account held at U.S. Bank ofWashington. Coverage for air travel booked elsewhere is not included. The $500 per person deposit only may be paid bycredit card at time of initial booking.

If payment is made by credit card, the cost of this insurance will be added to customer invoice. We do this because wehave too much experience of guests needing the coverage, and not having it. If you do not want our Travel Guard Insuranceyou will need to return a signed Disclaimer with your deposit. You may cancel within 10 days of making your reservation toreceive the full refund of your deposit, and the cost of the travel insurance plan (if applicable).

CANCELLATION FEES: (Covered by our Travel Insurance)Guests who must cancel their cruise for any reason, including medical or family reasons, are subject tothe following cancellation fees.

Days prior To Departure - Per Person Cancellation fee -up to 120 days 50% of initial deposit

119 to 90 days Forfeiture of full deposit89 to 60 days 30% of gross fare

59 to 30 days 60% of gross fare29 to 0 days 100% of gross fare

KEY FEATURES OF TRAVEL GUARDS GOLD PLAN COVERAGE -

Trip Cost: Trip Cancellation150% of Trip Cost:Trip Interruption$750: Trip Interruption - Return Air Only$750: Trip Delay

$250: Missed Connection

$1,000: Baggage & Personal Effects$300: Baggage Delay$25,000: Medical Expense$500,000: Emergency Evacuation & Repatriation of Remains$10,000 Accidental Death & Dismemberment
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]


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8798 N Mercer Way Mercer Island WA 98040

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Quito

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Galapagos Islands Cruise Route

Purposeful travel to interesting destinations, designed to

create lasting memories and fulfilling experiences by going

beyond the expected.

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