Bushtracks Expeditions

Day 1

Saturday, June 27

Guayaquil, Ecuador

Depart the U.S. and arrive in Guayaquil this evening. Upon arrival, it’s a short drive to our hotel.

Lodging: Hotel Hilton Colon (Meals Enroute)

Days 3 - 8

Monday, June 29 - Saturday, July 4

Galapagos Islands

While our exact routing depends on the National Park Service, we may visit the following islands: (B,L,D throughout)

Bartolome: This is an enchanting landscape where lava, mangroves and golden sand converge. Great walks, views and a chance to snorkel with penguins.

Santiago: Santiago provides us a chance to see the Galapagos fur seal, along with the opportunity to enjoy the best "tide pooling."

Santa Cruz: This is home for the Charles Darwin Research Center where we'll learn about vital preservation work. We'll head up into the highlands to roam the moss-draped lush landscape where wild giant tortoises forage.

Isabela: Anchor off the picturesque port of Puerto Villamil. Walk the streets of this small town, visit the nearby saltwater lagoons, home to flamingos or simply stroll along a beautiful beach. Visit the tortoise breeding center. Explore Isabela's caves and shoreline and search the waters for dolphins, whales, sea turtles and the elusive ocean sunfish - the mola-mola.

Fernandina: Investigate Punta Espinoza on Fernandina Island - the youngest island in the Galapagos. It's marine iguana heaven, with Isabela's volcanoes as a dramatic backdrop.

Floreana: Champion Islet is a dazzling snorkel site and home to a large colony of sea lions. There is nothing more delightful than an hour spent in the clear waters with these creatures! We may find flamingos, pintail ducks and various shorebirds. Hike to a lovely white sand beach, a favorite nesting site for sea turtles.

Espanola: Meet blue-footed boobies, sea lions galore, marine iguanas which develop particularly vivid coloration, and waved albatross, all living treasures found only on this island. Snorkel and stroll the island's lovely beaches.

Day 10

Monday, July 6

Lima, Cusco

Your morning visit includes many of Lima's most attractive and important sites in its historical center, including the Government Palace, the Cathedral, the Church of Santo Domingo, and the Church of San Francisco and convent, containing great works of art. This afternoon, we fly to Cusco, former capital of the Inca empire and the oldest continuously inhabited city in the Western hemisphere. Then drive down into the lush Sacred Valley and visit Chincheros for a private weaving demonstration by a renowned craftswoman. In the evening enjoy a special show interpreting Peruvian myths and folklore, followed by a Junior Ranger pizza party at our stylish hacienda.

Lodging: Sol Y Luna Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 12

Wednesday, July 8

Ollantaytambo, Machu Picchu

This morning we board the Vista Dome train and head to the legendary city of Machu Picchu. On arrival take a short bus ride up a steep hillside to our hotel for a late lunch. Then from our hotel we walk directly into the fabled city of terraces and temples, and explore the ruins until closing time, when the setting sun on the mountains and ruins can form a once-ina- lifetime experience. After cocktails this evening, adults hear a lecture on the Incas and Machu Picchu while Junior Rangers enjoy a puppet show.

Lodging: Sanctuary Lodge (B,L,D)

Day 14

Friday, July 10

Cusco

Today explore the beautiful Peruvian city of Cusco, a jewel of both Inca and Colonial architecture. Huge walls of intricately laid stone pay testament to the civilization that 500 years ago controlled much of this continent. Take a walking tour of the city, including the Plaza de Armas and artisan shops that sell a dazzling array of Andean handicrafts, as well as a stop at the magnificent cathedral. Visit the great fortress of Sacsayhuaman, where 200 ton stone blocks fortify the hilltop overlooking Cusco. This afternoon is free to shop and explore on your own, and this evening Junior Rangers participate with a local music school celebrating Peruvian music and songs, followed by a special farewell dinner.

Lodging: Monasterio Hotel (B,L,D)