DAY 1: OVERNIGHT FLIGHT: Depart from the USA with your college students.
DAY 2: QUITO: Hola Quito. Bienvenido to the capital city of Ecuador nestled high in the mountain peaks and concealed by the mist and the secrets of the Equator – Middle Earth. The elevation is over 9,000 feet above sea level, so be sure to hydrate the moment you feel the fresh air. Because of its proximity to the equator, Quito is said to experience all four seasons in one day.
DAY 3: QUITO: Buenos Dias! It is time to see the sites of Quito with your local guide. The Independence Plaza, flanked by the Cathedral, the Presidential Palace, and the Church of La Compania de Jesus is just a stone’s throw from your hotel. The Church of San Francisco, one of the most sacred churches in the “New World”, is a prime example of the Christian dominance of South America. Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the Earth), sounding like something out of the Hobbit, really does exist! Stand on the Equator and write, text, Instagram, tweet, or Facebook, while standing in both hemispheres! No matter how you send it, your family and friends will see you standing in the middle of the Earth!
DAY 4: QUITO: Is there such a thing as heaven on earth? The spectacularly breathtaking Bella Vista Cloud Reserve may be your answer. This home to colorful and rare birds, unique and exquisite vegetation, luscious forests, and hidden majestic waterfalls give you a rare insight into the real beauty of Mother Nature. Get lost in breathtaking wonders and immerse yourself in the tranquil Cloud Forest. Listen to the peaceful sounds of nature as you witness rare and endemic birds in their natural environment. Hike along the enchanting trails of this tropical paradise, discover botanical treasures, and let their magnificence unfold before you.
DAY 5: QUITO: It’s about to get hot up here! The Cotopaxi Volcano is considered to be the most beautiful and the most symmetrical mountain in Ecuador. The name “Cotopaxi” is Incan for “the neck of the moon.” Wow, you have stood in the middle of the Earth and seen the neck of the moon. Not bad for five days at the Equator!
DAY 6: QUITO/GALAPAGOS: Hop a short flight from Quito to Baltra, the principal island of the Galapagos archipelago. Board your boat the “Darwin” (get it?) for your tour of the islands that introduced to the world the concept of Natural Selection via Evolution. Charles Darwin spent a great deal of time on these islands, and you will have the privilege of tracing his footsteps during these next days. Darwin Bay features an abundance of marine life species that thrive in nutrient-rich water. Sneak a peek over the deck to see sharks, sea turtles, and the occasional Manta Ray. Looking up at Prince Phillip’s Steps offers you the rare glimpse of a variety of sea life that resides in the lava cliffs seeking refuge from the predators from both the sea and the air. The Red-billed Tropicbirds soar overhead, darting between their nests and the bay. Guess what? You get to sleep on the boat in a cabin similar to the one that Darwin enjoyed on his journey to these islands. Enjoy dinner as you listen to the call of rare birds, almost unchanged by evolution, call to one another in what can only be described as “nature’s symphony.”
DAY 7: GALAPAGOS: Good morning! Grab some breakfast with your college students and get an early start to your day! Isla Bartolome offers underwater rock formations and an array of marine animals including reef sharks, rays, and tropical fish. The white sand beach at the foot of Pinnacle Rock is home to a colony of Galapagos penguins, Sally Lightfoot Crabs, marine iguanas, sea lions, and Lava Herons. The crew of the Darwin will cater your meals as you enjoy Darwin’s playground both on the land and on the sea.
DAY 8: GALAPAGOS: Your evolutionary adventure continues today after breakfast. The Charles Darwin Research Station hosts several educational museums and spotlights the history and development of the Galapagos Islands while concentrating on the protection of this natural heritage. The Station was home to the late “Lonesome George,” the last tortoise of his subspecies and a symbol of the importance of wildlife conservation. Beneath the lush, green Highlands lurk the Lava Tubes, a unique, surreal experience that serves as a tortoise breeding center.
DAY 9: GALAPAGOS/QUITO: Charles Darwin spent years on these islands studying, writing, and publishing his theories of Evolution. What we take for granted on a comfortable boat with excellent accommodations and tasty meals would have been foreign to him. As you enjoy your final breakfast on board, spend a couple of moments reflecting on his life’s work and its impact on you. Fly to Quito and relax to enjoy the rest of the day in the city. Join friends and paint the town the color of your choice.
DAY 10: FLIGHT HOME: Hasta luego, Quito. Bienvenido, USA. Welcome Home!
DAY 1: OVERNIGHT FLIGHT: Depart from the USA with your MBA students.
DAY 2: QUITO: Hola Quito. Bienvenido to the capital city of Ecuador nestled high in the mountain peaks and concealed by the mist and the secrets of the Equator – Middle Earth. The elevation is over 9,000 feet above sea level, so be sure to hydrate the moment you feel the fresh air. Because of its proximity to the equator, Quito is said to experience all four seasons in one day.
DAY 3: QUITO: Buenos Dias! It is time to see the sites of Quito with your local guide. The Independence Plaza, flanked by the Cathedral, the Presidential Palace, and the Church of La Compania de Jesus are just a stone’s throw from your hotel. The Church of San Francisco, one of the most sacred churches in the “New World”, is a prime example of the Christian dominance of South America. Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the Earth), sounding like something out of the Hobbit, really does exist! Stand on the Equator and write, text, Instagram, tweet, Facebook or Tumblr while standing in both hemispheres! No matter how you send it, your family and friends will see you standing in the middle of the Earth!
DAY 4: QUITO: Is there such a thing as heaven on earth? The spectacularly breathtaking Bella Vista Cloud Reserve may be your answer. This home to colorful and rare birds, unique and exquisite vegetation, luscious forests, and hidden majestic waterfalls gives you a rare insight into the real beauty of Mother Nature. Get lost in breathtaking wonders and immerse yourself in the tranquil Cloud Forest. Listen to the peaceful sounds of nature as you witness rare and endemic birds in their natural environment. Hike along the enchanting trails of this tropical paradise, discover botanical treasures and let their magnificence unfold before you.
DAY 5: QUITO: It’s about to get hot up here! The Cotopaxi Volcano is considered to be the most beautiful and the most symmetrical mountain in Ecuador. The name “Cotopaxi” is Incan for “the neck of the moon.” Wow, you have stood in the middle of the Earth and seen the neck of the moon. Not bad for five days at the Equator!
DAY 6: QUITO/GALAPAGOS: Hop a short flight from Quito to Baltra, the principal island of the Galapagos archipelago. Board your boat the “Darwin” (get it?) for your tour of the islands that introduced to the world the concept of Natural Selection via Evolution. Charles Darwin spent a great deal of time on these islands, and you will have the privilege of tracing his footsteps during these next days. Darwin Bay features an abundance of marine life species that thrive in the nutrient-rich water. Sneak a peek over the deck to see sharks, sea turtles, and the occasional Manta Ray. Looking up at Prince Phillip’s Steps offers you the rare glimpse of a variety of sea life that resides in the lava cliffs seeking refuge from the predators from both the sea and the air. The Red-billed Tropicbirds soar overhead, darting between their nests and the bay. Guess what? You get to sleep on the boat in a cabin similar to the one that Darwin enjoyed on his journey to these islands. Enjoy dinner as you listen to the call of rare birds, almost unchanged by evolution, call to one another in what can only be described as “nature’s symphony.”
DAY 7: GALAPAGOS: Good morning! Grab some breakfast and get an early start to your day! Isla Bartolome offers underwater rock formations and an array of marine animals including reef sharks, rays, and tropical fish. The white sand beach at the foot of Pinnacle Rock is home to a colony of Galapagos penguins, Sally Lightfoot Crabs, marine iguanas, sea lions and Lava Herons. The crew of the Darwin will cater your meals as you enjoy Darwin’s playground both on the land and on the sea.
DAY 8: GALAPAGOS: Your evolutionary adventure continues today after breakfast. The Charles Darwin Research Station hosts several educational museums and spotlights the history and development of the Galapagos Islands while concentrating on the protections of this natural heritage. The Station was home to the late “Lonesome George,” the last tortoise of his subspecies and a symbol of the importance of wildlife conservation. Beneath the lush, green Highlands lurk the Lava Tubes, a unique, surreal experience that serves as a tortoise breeding center.
DAY 9: GALAPAGOS/QUITO: Charles Darwin spent years on these islands studying, writing and publishing his theories of Evolution. What we take for granted on a comfortable boat with excellent accommodations and tasty meals would have been foreign to him. As you enjoy your final breakfast on board, spend a couple of moments to reflect on his life’s work and its impact on you. Fly to Quito and relax to enjoy the rest of the day in the city. Join friends and paint the town the color of your choice.
DAY 10: FLIGHT HOME: Hasta luego, Quito. Bienvenido, USA. Welcome Home!
DAY 1: OVERNIGHT FLIGHT: Depart from the USA.
DAY 2: QUITO: Hola Quito. Bienvenido to the capital city of Ecuador nestled high in the mountain peaks and concealed by the mist and the secrets of the Equator – Middle Earth. The elevation is over 9,000 feet above sea level, so be sure to hydrate the moment you feel the fresh air. Because of its proximity to the equator, Quito is said to experience all four seasons in one day.
DAY 3: QUITO: Buenos Dias! It is time to see the sites of Quito with your local guide. The Independence Plaza, flanked by the Cathedral, the Presidential Palace, and the Church of La Compania de Jesus is just a stone’s throw from your hotel. The Church of San Francisco, one of the most sacred churches in the “New World”, is a prime example of the Christian dominance of South America. Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the Earth), sounding like something out of the Hobbit, really does exist! Stand on the Equator and write, text, Instagram, tweet, or Facebook while standing in both hemispheres! No matter how you send it, your family and friends will see you standing in the middle of the Earth!
DAY 4: QUITO: Is there such a thing as heaven on earth? The spectacularly breathtaking Bella Vista Cloud Reserve may be your answer. This home to colorful and rare birds, unique and exquisite vegetation, luscious forests, and hidden majestic waterfalls give you a rare insight into the real beauty of Mother Nature. Get lost in breathtaking wonders and immerse yourself in the tranquil Cloud Forest. Listen to the peaceful sounds of nature as you witness rare and endemic birds in their natural environment. Hike along the enchanting trails of this tropical paradise, discover botanical treasures, and let their magnificence unfold before you.
DAY 5: QUITO: It’s about to get hot up here! The Cotopaxi Volcano is considered to be the most beautiful and the most symmetrical mountain in Ecuador. The name “Cotopaxi” is Incan for “the neck of the moon.” Wow, you have stood in the middle of the Earth and seen the neck of the moon. Not bad for five days at the Equator!
DAY 6: QUITO/GALAPAGOS: Hop a short flight from Quito to Baltra, the principal island of the Galapagos archipelago. Board your boat the “Darwin” (get it?) for your tour of the islands that introduced to the world the concept of Natural Selection via Evolution. Charles Darwin spent a great deal of time on these islands, and you will have the privilege of tracing his footsteps during these next days. Darwin Bay features an abundance of marine life species that thrive in nutrient-rich water. Sneak a peek over the deck to see sharks, sea turtles, and the occasional Manta Ray. Looking up at Prince Phillip’s Steps offers you the rare glimpse of a variety of sea life that resides in the lava cliffs seeking refuge from the predators from both the sea and the air. The Red-billed Tropicbirds soar overhead, darting between their nests and the bay. Guess what? You get to sleep on the boat in a cabin similar to the one that Darwin enjoyed on his journey to these islands. Enjoy dinner as you listen to the call of rare birds, almost unchanged by evolution, call to one another in what can only be described as “nature’s symphony.”
DAY 7: GALAPAGOS: Good morning! Grab some breakfast and get an early start to your day! Isla Bartolome offers underwater rock formations and an array of marine animals including reef sharks, rays, and tropical fish. The white sand beach at the foot of Pinnacle Rock is home to a colony of Galapagos penguins, Sally Lightfoot Crabs, marine iguanas, sea lions, and Lava Herons. The crew of the Darwin will cater your meals as you enjoy Darwin’s playground both on the land and on the sea.
DAY 8: GALAPAGOS: Your evolutionary adventure continues today after breakfast. The Charles Darwin Research Station hosts several educational museums and spotlights the history and development of the Galapagos Islands while concentrating on the protection of this natural heritage. The Station was home to the late “Lonesome George,” the last tortoise of his subspecies and a symbol of the importance of wildlife conservation. Beneath the lush, green Highlands lurk the Lava Tubes, a unique, surreal experience that serves as a tortoise breeding center.
DAY 9: GALAPAGOS/QUITO: Charles Darwin spent years on these islands studying, writing, and publishing his theories of Evolution. What we take for granted on a comfortable boat with excellent accommodations and tasty meals would have been foreign to him. As you enjoy your final breakfast on board, spend a couple of moments reflecting on his life’s work and its impact on you. Fly to Quito and relax to enjoy the rest of the day in the city. Join friends and paint the town the color of your choice.
DAY 10: FLIGHT HOME: Hasta luego, Quito. Bienvenido, USA. Welcome Home!
DAY 1: OVERNIGHT FLIGHT: Depart from the USA.
DAY 2: QUITO: Hola Quito. Bienvenido to the capital city of Ecuador nestled high in the mountain peaks and concealed by the mist and the secrets of the Equator – Middle Earth. The elevation is over 9,000 feet above sea level, so be sure to hydrate the moment you feel the fresh air. Because of its proximity to the equator, Quito is said to experience all four seasons in one day.
DAY 3: QUITO: Buenos Dias! It is time to see the sites of Quito with your local guide. The Independence Plaza, flanked by the Cathedral, the Presidential Palace, and the Church of La Compania de Jesus is just a stone’s throw from your hotel. The Church of San Francisco, one of the most sacred churches in the “New World”, is a prime example of the Christian dominance of South America. Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the Earth), sounding like something out of the Hobbit, really does exist! Stand on the Equator and write, text, Instagram, tweet, Facebook or Tumblr while standing in both hemispheres! No matter how you send it, your family and friends will see you standing in the middle of the Earth!
DAY 4: QUITO: Is there such a thing as heaven on earth? The spectacularly breathtaking Bella Vista Cloud Reserve may be your answer. This home to colorful and rare birds, unique and exquisite vegetation, luscious forests, and hidden majestic waterfalls give you a rare insight into the real beauty of Mother Nature. Get lost in breathtaking wonders and immerse yourself in the tranquil Cloud Forest. Listen to the peaceful sounds of nature as you witness rare and endemic birds in their natural environment. Hike along the enchanting trails of this tropical paradise, discover botanical treasures, and let their magnificence unfold before you.
DAY 5: QUITO: It’s about to get hot up here! The Cotopaxi Volcano is considered to be the most beautiful and the most symmetrical mountain in Ecuador. The name “Cotopaxi” is Incan for “the neck of the moon.” Wow, you have stood in the middle of the Earth and seen the neck of the moon. Not bad for five days at the Equator!
DAY 6: QUITO/GALAPAGOS: Hop a short flight from Quito to Baltra, the principal island of the Galapagos archipelago. Board your boat the “Darwin” (get it?) for your tour of the islands that introduced to the world the concept of Natural Selection via Evolution. Charles Darwin spent a great deal of time on these islands, and you will have the privilege of tracing his footsteps during these next days. Darwin Bay features an abundance of marine life species that thrive in nutrient-rich water. Sneak a peek over the deck to see sharks, sea turtles, and the occasional Manta Ray. Looking up at Prince Phillip’s Steps offers you the rare glimpse of a variety of sea life that resides in the lava cliffs seeking refuge from the predators from both the sea and the air. The Red-billed Tropicbirds soar overhead, darting between their nests and the bay. Guess what? You get to sleep on the boat in a cabin similar to the one that Darwin enjoyed on his journey to these islands. Enjoy dinner as you listen to the call of rare birds, almost unchanged by evolution, call to one another in what can only be described as “nature’s symphony.”
DAY 7: GALAPAGOS: Good morning! Grab some breakfast and get an early start to your day! Isla Bartolome offers underwater rock formations and an array of marine animals including reef sharks, rays, and tropical fish. The white sand beach at the foot of Pinnacle Rock is home to a colony of Galapagos penguins, Sally Lightfoot Crabs, marine iguanas, sea lions, and Lava Herons. The crew of the Darwin will cater your meals as you enjoy Darwin’s playground both on the land and on the sea.
DAY 8: GALAPAGOS: Your evolutionary adventure continues today after breakfast. The Charles Darwin Research Station hosts several educational museums and spotlights the history and development of the Galapagos Islands while concentrating on the protection of this natural heritage. The Station was home to the late “Lonesome George,” the last tortoise of his subspecies and a symbol of the importance of wildlife conservation. Beneath the lush, green Highlands lurk the Lava Tubes, a unique, surreal experience that serves as a tortoise breeding center.
DAY 9: GALAPAGOS/QUITO: Charles Darwin spent years on these islands studying, writing, and publishing his theories of Evolution. What we take for granted on a comfortable boat with excellent accommodations and tasty meals would have been foreign to him. As you enjoy your final breakfast on board, spend a couple of moments reflecting on his life’s work and its impact on you. Fly to Quito and relax to enjoy the rest of the day in the city. Join friends and paint the town the color of your choice.
DAY 10: FLIGHT HOME: Hasta luego, Quito. Bienvenido, USA. Welcome Home!
Country Description
Take an educational trip with your students to the Charles Darwin Research Station and transport yourself back in time to one of science’s most groundbreaking discoveries. Explore the lush Galapagos Islands and observe nature the way Darwin did. Back on the mainland take a short trip outside the capital, Quito, and experience the natural beauty that is unparalleled anywhere else on earth. The “Bellavista Cloud Reserve” and Cotopaxi Volcano are only a short bus ride away! Afterward enjoy Ecuador’s most popular meal, Llapingachos, back in Quito. Then spend the rest of your day exploring the historic church of San Francisco and the Presidential Palace. Whether your day is packed with exploration or you plan to lounge on the beach, you will be in awe at all the natural beauty this amazing country has to offer.
If you packed a banana for lunch chances are it’s from Ecuador. The country is the world’s leading producer of bananas and one of the leading producers of cacao. It also has extensive oil reserves which provide a considerable boost to the country’s revenues. Along with its export revenues, Ecuador’s economy also thrives on its tourism. Ecuador is one of the world leaders in the field of ecotourism; one looks at its natural diversity and historical significance and it’s easy to see why that’s the case.
TourBitz – Travel Tidbits for your international Adventure!
Official Name: The Republic of Ecuador.
Capital: Quito
Language(s): Spanish plus other indigenous languages such as Kichwa and Shuar.
Major Industries: Vast agricultural products including fruit, timber and sugar cane, and rice. Also, its proximity to the Galapagos Islands has created a sizable tourist market.
Currency: U.S. Dollar (adopted in 1999)
Population: est. 16 million
Fun TourBitz: The theory of Evolution began on the Galapagos Islands off the coast of Equator. Charles Darwin roamed these islands looking for the “missing links” to prove his theory. His walks on these islands have given us insight into the human and animal condition we recognize as fact today.