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January, February, March 2009
Galapagos
Islands
aboard the M.V. SANTA CRUZ
"The natural history of this archipelago is very remarkable… the greater number of its inhabitants, both vegetable and animal, being found nowhere else.” Charles Darwin’s keen yet simple observation of the Galápagos Islands lies at the heart of his theory of evolution. Today, with 95 percent of its natural biodiversity still intact, the Galapagos Archipelago is a “living laboratory of evolution” and is still the home of the exotic birds, animals and plants that inspired Darwin and made the islands a nature lover’s dream destination.
On the 150th anniversary of Darwin’s Origin of the Species and Darwin’s 200th birthday in February 2009, join fellow Galapagos experts who will give talks on evolution and Darwin’s voyage to the Galápagos on the h.m.s. Beagle. The ship set sail from England in 1831 and reached San Cristobal in the Galápagos Islands in 1835.
You will travel aboard the state-of-the-art exploration vessel, the M.V. SANTA CRUZ. Designed specifically to navigate the Galápagos Islands, it is fully equipped with everything necessary to make your experience complete, from a fleet of Zodiacs to complimentary snorkeling gear. Excursions are led by a highly qualified team of certified naturalists who share their knowledge to enhance your understanding and enjoyment of this fascinating and mysterious natural realm.
These 19 islands, each with its own ecosystem, are literally overflowing with life, including species unknown elsewhere in the world, like the flightless cormorant and the marine iguana. With few natural predators on the islands, the abundant wildlife is nearly fearless and accepts human company up close to an extent found nowhere else.
On mainland Ecuador, you visit the colorful Andean market of Otavalo and explore the magnificent colonial churches of Quito. We are also pleased to offer an optional six-night Post-Program to Peru’s legendary “lost city” of Machu Picchu and the historic cities of Lima and Cuzco.
An exceptional travel value, this special journey of discovery is certain to sell out quickly. Space is limited, so I urge you to make your reservation soon.
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