Most Inspirational Moment
For me, taking a cooling dip in a shallow bay after a hike and finding myself swimming with sea lions who had no fear of me, just curious and playful. This is how man’s relationship with wildlife should be.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Fabricio our guide was a knowledgeable naturalist who also knew about the history of and geology of the islands. He was outgoing, personable and witty, able to engage a mixed group of nationalities and ages.
Advice for Potential Travellers
This is the important bit for Exodus and potential travellers! The trip notes and information provided in advance of the trip were not correct in some key aspects. A fundamental error, although it did not ultimately matter as I thoroughly enjoyed the journey, was that I was informed I was on Itinerary C but was actually on Itinerary B! The trip notes state that a transfer is provided from Quito airport to the hotel for the first night and that the guide meets the group at the hotel and there is a welcome meeting. None of this is correct and I was left entirely to my own devices until I actually reached the Galapagos. Fortunately the hotel provides a shuttle service to the airport. Another thing very important for travellers to know is that the advice in the itinerary and trip notes to not carry a suitcase or wheeled bag and use a soft holdall or rucksack due to space on the boat can safely be ignored. Basically it is up to you to decide how much of your cabin space is taken up by your luggage! I crammed over a week’s worth of gear into a rucksack only to see everybody else’s hard and large wheeled suitcases comfortably accommodated on the boat. I was asked more than once where my luggage was!! Not at all clear why Exodus advise this. Otherwise it is worth noting that Quito and Quayaquil airports have good facilities and seem to run quite efficiently, although passport control at Quito is pretty slow. Staff were helpful.