Let’s Go to the Galapagos!

It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the Galapagos on a beautiful deluxe yacht with a happy group of fellow dance-adventurers!  We have secured a private yacht and excellent tour provider at a special price, with many added features not available to the general public – including dancing while you adventure! 

                              Dates: May 14-23, 2024, onboard the Grand Queen Beatriz  

The “tour” cost is virtually all-inclusive and covers: 

• 2 nights at 5-star hotel in Quito, one each before and after the cruise (Le Parc Hotel, Quito: https://en.leparc.com.ec) 
• 7 nights/8 days onboard the ship
• R/T Airport transfer from Quito hotel to Galapagos Islands flight (2 total)
• R/T air flight from Quito to the Galapagos
• All meals onboard the ship and 2 in Quito (9 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 7 dinners)
• All on-island excursions, guided walks, snorkeling, tours, etc (See list below*)
• Your own personal travel-concierge, world-class dance instructor, and all group dance lessons & social dance events on the ship and/or islands 
• Bilingual national park guide
• Snorkeling gear and wetsuits
• Purified drinking water, coffee, tea & some juices
• Fuel Surcharge

                       *Included activities on the Galapagos

• Isla San Cristobal - Highlands Walk (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing
• Isla Santiago - Sullivan Bay - Walk (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing
• Isla Bartolome - Walk (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing
• Isla Bartolome - Snorkeling (1.5 hours)
• Isla Bartolome - Panga ride (30 mins)
• Isla Santiago - Puerto Egas - Walk (1.45 hours) - Wet Landing
• Isla Santiago - Puerto Egas - Snorkelling (1 hour)
• Isla Sanitago - Espumilla Beach - Snorkeling (45 mins)
• Isla Sanitago - Espumilla Beach - Walk (1.5 hours) - Wet Landing
• Isla Santa Cruz - Highlands Visit (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing
• Isla North Seymour - Walk (2 hours) - Dry Landing
• Isla North Seymour - Snorkeling (1 hours)
• Isla Mosquera - Snorkeling (1 hour)
• Isla Mosquera - Beach Walk (1.5 hours) - Wet Landing
• Isla Santa Cruz - Black Turtle Cove - Panga ride (1.5 hours)
• Isla Santa Cruz - Cerro Dragon - Walk (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing
• Isla Santa Cruz - Cerro Dragon - Snorkeling or swimming (1 hour)
• Isla Santiago - Sombrero Chino - Snorkeling (1 hour)
• Sombrero Chino - Walk and Panga ride (2 hours) - Wet Landing
• Isla Rabida - Snorkeling (1 hour)
• Isla Rabida - Walk (1.5 hours) - Wet Landing

Not included are:

• Airfare to/from Quito
• Transfer from Quito International Airport to Quito Hotel (can purchase R/T transfer for $85, 1-2 people)
• Galapagos National Park entry fee ($120, cash only)
• Trip Cancellation/Medical Insurance (required to go)
• lunch/dinner in Quito
• Any add-ons or excursions in Quito
• Soft drinks (colas/sodas, ice-tea, etc), Alcohol 
• Gratuities (approximately $200 pp, cash only)

Tour Cost per person: 

      =>  Junior Suite Cabins (Upper Deck): $8,300
      =>  Ocean View Cabins (Lower Deck):  $7,950  

Pre & Post Trip Extensions are available.  

          See details below

=============== Optional PRE-Galapagos Extension (PRE-Cruise) ===============
 

Banos & Cotopaxi 

Start/Finish:                  Quito, Ecuador
Accommodation:        2 Nights Hotel
Included:                        2 Breakfasts, 1 Dinner, Transportation, Hotel, 

                                         Full-Time English Speaking Guide, Park Fees

Not Included:               Other Meals, Alcohol, Tips, Sundries    
Transport:                     Per Daily Itinerary 

PRICE:       $745 Per Person  (Requires Minimum of 3 Participants); Single Supplement:  $200

Itinerary:

Day 0 (May 11 - Optional):  Overnight in Quito (not included in the excursion package) 

May we suggest arriving in Quito the evening before the excursion so that you have time to settle in and rest before being picked up on the morning of the 12th.  Extra nights in Quito are not included in the excursion package but can be purchased for $165/night per room on the checkout page.  We are staying at Le Parc Hotel, Quito (https://en.leparc.com.ec)

Day 1 (May 12):  Quito -> Baños De Agua Santa    (Meals Included: N/A)

In the morning you start your route to Baños de Agua Santa, commonly referred to as Baños, a charming town located in the Tungurahua Province of Ecuador. Known for its natural beauty, hot springs, and outdoor adventures. At midday, enjoy lunch (own expense) and continue to Pailón del Diablo (Devil's Cauldron), known for its powerful cascade and impressive viewpoint. You can also visit other nearby waterfalls such as Manto de la Novia. Later, you will visit Casa del Árbol, It is a must-visit attraction that offers an exhilarating experience like no other. Known for its iconic "swing at the end of the world," this enchanting spot attracts adventurers and nature lovers from around the globe.  At night, you will have time to explore the city and sample the local cuisine.

Included activities:  Baños hiking;  Casa del Árbol hiking;  Pailón del Diablo hiking

Accommodation:  La Floresta Hotel, double rooms.

Day 2 (May 13):  Baños De Agua Santa –> Quilotoa –> Cotopaxi. (Meals Included: Breakfast).

We depart from Baños after breakfast and start your scenic journey towards Cotopaxi National Park.  At midday you will arrive in Quilotoa Lagoon in the Andes Mountains of Ecuador, a stunning turquoise crater lake nestled within the Quilotoa Caldera. It is a popular tourist destination due to its mesmerizing beauty and unique geological features; here you will have time for lunch to enjoy typical Ecuadorian food.   Finally, you continue your trip to Cotopaxi National Park. It is home to one of the world's highest active volcanoes, Cotopaxi, standing proudly at over 5,897 meters (19,347 feet). The snow-capped peak of Cotopaxi creates a breathtaking backdrop against the vivid blue skies, offering a sight that will leave you in awe. The park's diverse ecosystem supports a wide array of wildlife, including rare species such as the Andean condor, llamas, and the elusive Andean fox. Nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers will find themselves immersed in a paradise of natural wonders, with abundant ora and fauna to Discover and appreciate.

Your second day concludes at Cuello De Luna Hotel, which is also located in Cotopaxi National Park.

Included activities: Quilotoa – hiking; Cotopaxi – hiking

Accommodation:  Cuello de Luna Hotel, double rooms.

Day 3 (May 14):  Cotopaxi National Park -> Mariscal Sucre International Airport (Meals Included: Breakfast).

The morning of the last day you start your return trip to Quito as we approach the end of our journey together.  The transportation will drop you off at the La Parc Hotel in Quito where you will have the day free to explore the city before the group meeting with everyone at 6pm 

=============== Optional POST-Galapagos Extension (POST-Cruise) ===============

GALAPAGOS EXTENSION: Santa Cruz Island, Baltra Island 

Start/Finish:        Santa Cruz Island - >Baltra Island -> Quito        

Included:                      2 Nights Hotel, 2 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, Transportation, Hotel, 

                                      Full-Time English Speaking Guide, Park Fees

Not Included:              Other Meals, Alcohol, Tips, Sundries, Insurance    

Transport:                    Per Daily Itinerary 

PRICE:        $855 Per Person  (Requires Minimum of 3 Participants);  Single Supplement:  $105

ADDITIONAL SERVICES:

=> Additional Transfers (if not traveling with the group transfer) 1-3 pax: $95

=> Additional Post-Tour Accommodation in Santa Cruz $95.00

Itinerary:

Day 1: May 22

Destination: Rancho El Manzanillo + Garrapaterro (Meals Included: Lunch)

On the morning you finish your cruise aboard the Grand Queen Beatriz, our guide will pick you up at the Charles Darwin Station to continue your activities in the Galapagos islands. Your first visit is in the highland of Isla Santa Cruz. Here you can observe the giant tortoises roaming the wild – your naturalist guide will fill you in on the lives and habits of these fascinating creatures.

In El Manzanillo ranch you may opt to have a “Trapiche experience”. A trapiche typically refers to a traditional sugar mill or sugarcane press used to extract juice from sugarcane for making sugar or other products.

At El Manzanillo Ranch, you'll enjoy a satisfying lunch. Following that, your next adventure awaits at Garrapatero Beach. Renowned for its tranquil waters, this beach is perfect for engaging in water-based activities. You'll have ample time to relish the shoreline and partake in snorkeling, immersing yourself in the aquatic wonders.

Included Activities: Highlands – Hiking; Garrapatero Beach – Snorkeling

Accommodation: Lobo de Mar – double rooms.

Day 2: May 23

Destination: Tortuga Bay + free time (Meals Included: Breakfast)

After breakfast, we will go kayaking at Tortuga Bay. Tortuga Beach, located on Santa Cruz Island, is a pristine white sand beach surrounded by turquoise waters and backed by lush green vegetation. As you step onto the soft sand, you'll immediately feel the tranquillity and natural beauty that defines the Galapagos Islands. Here, you may encounter marine iguanas basking in the sun, sally light foot crabs scuttling across the rocks, and various shorebirds such as pelicans and herons searching for their next meal. Be sure to bring your camera to capture these incredible moments and the breathtaking coastal scenery.

Following lunch, you'll have leisure time to explore Puerto Ayora at your own pace and savour the myriad offerings this island holds. From shops and authentic eateries to charming cafes, you can choose your own adventure.

Included Activities: Tortuga Bay – Kayaking

Accommodation: Lobo de Mar – double rooms.

Day 3: May 24

Destination: Puerto Ayora –> Baltra Airport -> Quito (Meals Included: Breakfast).

Early in the morning on your last day you'll be transported to Baltras Island to start your return trip to Quito. We extend our sincerest gratitude for choosing to embark on this extraordinary adventure with us. 

Included Activities: Group airport departure transfer

Daily group classes will include a mix of morning and/or afternoon sessions in a variety of mostly swing & blues dance styles (ECS, Lindy, blues, blues-swing fusion, etc), with a strong emphasis on both partnering & connection as well as introducing fun new step patterns and stylings.  

Other group activities may include afternoon & evening dances, a cocktail social hour, games night, as well as many other fun "non-dancing" activities.  So many options, so little time!

The Galapagos Islands are a largely untouched natural paradise. In order to experience the splendor of the diverse landscapes and waters, the included activities on this trip often require a moderate level of fitness. We ask that you read the itinerary carefully to ensure that you will be able to participate fully.

Our smaller-sized ship makes cruising from island to island a breeze so you can spend more time exploring the gorgeous surrounds than stuck onboard. Compact size means that the steps between the decks are steep, and as they are designed to maximize living area space, sleeping quarters are cosy.

For getting to small islets, coves and prime snorkeling spots, it is sometimes necessary to use a Zodiac boat (panga). You will need to be comfortable climbing in and out of one during wet and dry landings.

The waters of the Galapagos are generally calm and serene. However, there is always the possibility of choppy water at sea. Steady sea legs (and a sturdy stomach) will be needed when walking around the boat during bad weather. Rain or shine, your trusty crew will always be on hand to assist you.

Things are never set in stone when you’re traveling on island time. A sense of humor and flexibility will ensure you have a fun, relaxing trip through this beautiful part of the world no matter what happens. While the crew will do their best to follow the itinerary, variations may occur due to weather or under direction from local authorities.

You will want to fly in and out of the Quito Mariscal Sucre International Airport (airport code: UIO).  We will have one overnight stay in Quito both before the Galapagos cruise and after at Le Parc Hotel, Quito (https://en.leparc.com.ec).  Plan to arrive on May 14th (or May 11th if you are doing the pre-trip extension).  Plan to depart Quito May 23rd

Travel insurance is required for all of our international trips and will help protect both your investment and our vendors should you need to cancel.  We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. If you are traveling within your home country or region please confirm before travel that you are entitled to access the public medical system easily should an accident occur. We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers COVID-19, personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international trips, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance and the insurance company's 24-hour emergency contact number has been sighted by your leader. 

There are many companies that offer travel insurance. 

=> You can sign up for one such policy during the payment checkout portion of this registration. 

=>  If you are a AAA member, you may want to check with them as well.

=> One of our venders recently recommended Allianz Global Assistance. Covid coverage is available through them. You can contact the Allianz reservations team at  866 884-3556.  

=> Another option is to purchase insurance through our affiliate company, World Nomads* 

 CLICK HERE to contact them.

*PLEASE NOTE:  We do not represent World Nomads.  As an affiliate, we receive a small commission when you get a quote from them using the link provided.  This is information only and not a requirement to buy travel insurance through this company.

Once you have purchased your travel insurance, please let us know the company name, contact information, and policy number you have with them.

Should you have a special diet requirement (for example vegetarian, celiac, vegan, severe food allergies) it's essential that you inform us of the specific details at least 10 days prior to departure in order to make sure the chef on board the boat or on the island can request the necessary food supplies.

PASSPORT

You will need a current passport to enter Ecuador.  The expiration date on your passport should be no less than 6 months after the last day of your visit.  

ECUADOR VISA

Australians, New Zealanders, Americans, Canadians and British do not currently require a visa for Ecuador. For all other nationalities please reconfirm your visa requirements with your government agency in your country of origin.

CLICK HERE for our best tips on travel preparation and packing from our WWDA Website.

Know before you go – take a look at the great information here.  Note – shots are not required to visit the Galapagos, but please evaluate your needs and check with your doctor.  CLICK HERE for a Galapagos Island check list specifically

Here is an excellent packing list from our tour provider:  CLICK HERE 

WORLDWIDE DANCE ADVENTURES (WWDA) CANCELLATION POLICY: 

1)  You will receive a full refund minus a $150 cancellation fee if cancelled within 14 days of your registration and greater than 180 days prior to the trip.  You will receive a 50% refund minus a $150 cancellation fee if cancelled after 14 days of registering but more than 180 days prior to the trip.  Within 180 days of the trip, all purchases will be final.  If you are cancelling due to your own health or to the health of a family member, your travel insurance should be able to reimburse you for the cost (check your insurance policy for details).

2)  If you need to cancel for any reason, your ticket is fully transferable (minus a $150 administration fee) contingent upon confirmation and approval from Worldwide Dance Adventures.  The other person will need to register separately online for the trip and let us know on that form that this is a transferred ticket (not purchased). They will also need to pay any cost differentials.

3)  If the trip has to be cancelled by the organizers for any reason, Worldwide Dance Adventures will first attempt to reschedule.  If you are unable to attend the new dates, a full refund will be given, minus any credit card or PayPal fees accrued. 

4)  It is the responsibility of the trip attendee to reach out in the event of a cancellation and make their payments on time. We reserve the right to hold payments according to the cancellation policy above to pay our vendors to make this trip happen. By making a deposit you agree to the above terms of Service and Cancellation Policy.

Passport & Visa

All travelers must have a valid passport for international travel and many countries require at least 6 months validity from the date of return. Some countries also require a machine-readable passport and/or unstamped available pages. When assisting with an international travel booking, we will assume that all travelers on the booking have a valid passport. If this is not the case, you must let us know. It is important to ensure you have valid passports, visas and re-entry permits which meet the requirements of immigration and other government authorities. Any fines, penalties, payments, delay or expenditures incurred as a result of such documents not meeting the requirements of those authorities will be your sole responsibility.

Liability:

We exercise care in the selection of reputable travel service providers but we are not ourselves a provider of travel services and have no control over, or liability for, the services provided by third parties.  

In no event do we accept any liability in contract, tort or otherwise, for any injury, damage, loss, delay, additional expense or inconvenience caused directly or indirectly by the acts, omissions or default, whether negligent or otherwise, of third party providers over whom we have no direct control, force majeure or any other event which is beyond our control or which is not preventable by reasonable diligence on our part. We also do not accept any liability in contract, tort or otherwise, for consequential loss (meaning indirect loss, loss of revenue, loss of reputation, loss of profits, loss of actual or anticipated savings, lost opportunities, including opportunities to enter into arrangements with third parties or loss or damage in connection with claims against you by third parties) howsoever caused in connection with your booking.

Risks of Travel and Release: 

We assume no responsibility for and shall not be liable for the acts or omissions on the part of any other party not under our control or any acts of God, unsafe conditions, terrorism, health hazards including pandemics, illness, weather hazards, or the suitability for a disabled person of any portion of any trip. We have no special knowledge of dangers during travel or at destinations. For information related to such dangers, we recommend going to the State Department travel website at travel.state.gov, click on "Find International travel Information" then click on "Country Information", and fill in the name of the destination country. For medical and health information, we recommend going to the Centers for Disease Control website at cdc.gov/travel, then click on "Destinations" and scroll to the name of the destination country. It is your personal decision to travel, and you are doing so with full knowledge of current travel recommendations and travel restrictions with regards to the risks of COVID-19. YOU HEREBY EXPRESSLY ASSUME ALL OF THESE RISKS AND DANGERS, AND YOU HEREBY EXPRESSLY AGREE TO FOREVER RELEASE, DISCHARGE AND HOLD US, AND OUR AGENTS, EMPLOYEES, OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, ASSOCIATES, AFFILIATED COMPANIES, GUIDES, GROUP LEADERS, AND SUBCONTRACTORS HARMLESS AGAINST ANY AND ALL LIABILITY, ACTIONS, CAUSES OF ACTIONS, SUITS, CLAIMS, AND DEMANDS OF ANY AND EVERY KIND AND NATURE WHATSOEVER WHICH YOU NOW HAVE OR WHICH MAY HEREAFTER ARISE OUT OF OR IN CONNECTION WITH THESE RISKS AND Dangers.

If you have any questions, please contact us at danceadventures@comcast.net

If you are unable to join us this year but would be interested in a Galapagos trip at any time in the future, join our "Galapagos Dance Adventure" Facebook group to learn about those opportunities when they arise.  CLICK HERE to join.