International Expeditions is inviting travelers to explore more of Ecuador with a buy one get one free extension offer including three additional nights exploring Quito and the Otavalo Market,a $1,248 value, on their July 4, Oct. 17 and Nov. 14, 2014 Galapagos Islands cruises.
IE's Otavalo Extension features a survey of Andean culture, including weaving demonstrations and time to stroll through the famed Otavalo Market, where indigenous peoples from more than 70 villages come to sell crafts and produce, and socialize. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate hiking along the slopes of the Imbabura Volcano at the Condor Park.
Prior to their Ecuador extension, IE guests enjoy a 10-day Galapagos cruise aboard the 32-guest M/V Evolution. Aboard the Evolution, travelers enjoy a 2-to-1 guest-to-crew ratio, spacious, outward-facing cabins and a casual atmosphere. In addition to daily snorkeling and hiking, other unexpected highlights of IE's journey include meeting a local coffee farmer Adriano Cabrera, who also produces small-batch moonshine, and joining an island band, dancing to traditional Ecuadorian favorites on the sun deck.
IE's 10-day cruise itinerary visits the volcanically active island of Fernandina, searching for flightless cormorants and the largest marine iguanas. IE travelers will also stop at the Charles Darwin Research Center, famous for its tortoise breeding programs, and explore Santiago Island, a haven for finches, doves and Galapagos hawks. Highly trained Galapagos naturalist guides enhance travelers' experiences by sharing their in-depth knowledge and bringing them within inches of giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, sea lions, penguins, and other animals.
This immersive expedition navigates to captivating islands, where the small group size allows for easy access to the wildlife and more personal attention than guests find aboard larger cruise ships. Onboard, guests savor fine cuisine and a host of amenities including an observation deck and canopied bar, plus complimentary snorkeling equipment, wetsuits and kayaks. The Evolution's air-conditioned cabins range from approximately 143 to 263 square feet and feature private facilities and ample storage.
Prices for the July 4, Oct. 17 and Nov. 14, 2014 Galapagos Islands cruises featuring the buy one, get one free Otavalo extensions start at $5,298, and include accommodations, all excursions, most meals, transfers and tips to porters and waiters for included meals.
SOURCE: International Expeditions press release
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