Galapagos Hawk in Bartolome Island Snow-capped mountains in the Equator Pacific Coast Amazon´s biodiversity 3 Ecuador FOUR WORLDS IN A NUTSHELL Ecuador is located on the northwestern coast of South America and is noteworthy for its wide array of indigenous cultures, well preserved colonial architecture, spectacular volcanic landscapes and dense rainforest. One can’t help but stand in awe at the beauty of its surprises. The diversity of its people, its places, and its things allows for settings less than even a few miles apart to bear little true resemblance to each other. The more you delve into Ecuador’s natural, cultural and environmental subtleties, the more you will stand convinced that there is nothing like it.
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G a l a p a g o s H a w k i n B a r t o l o m e I s l a n d
S n ow - c a p p e d m o u n t a i n s i n t h e E q u a t o r P a c i f i c C o a s t
A m a z o n ´ s b i o d i v e r s i t y
3
E c u a d o rFOUR WORLDS IN A NUTSHELL
Ecuador is located on the northwestern coast of South America and is noteworthy for its wide array of indigenous cultures, well preserved colonial architecture, spectacular volcanic landscapes and dense rainforest. One can’t help but stand in awe at the beauty of its surprises. The diversity of its people, its places, and its things allows for settings less than even a few miles apart to bear little true resemblance to each other. The more you delve into Ecuador’s natural, cultural and environmental subtleties, the more you will stand convinced that there is nothing like it.
EXPERIENCE YOU CAN RELY ON
THE BEST VALUE
Kleintours has been passionately dedicated to the tourism industry, offering quality control and unmatched personalized service all the way. From arrival to departure, we handle everything, boasting superbly trained personnel and meeting all international safety standards and requirements. We are proud holders of ISO 9001-2008 and Rainforest Alliance verifi cation and long-time members of the main tourism associations ASTA, USTOA, IATA, ATTA, NTA, OSSN, ACTA, ARGELateinamerika, LATA, PATA.
We work with top-notch hotels, restaurants and providers to give our clients the best Ecuador has to offer. Our ships are periodically refurbished to meet your expectations in luxury and comfort. Spacious sun decks on our vessels, comfortable seating in our buses, superbly trained and committed drivers, crew members, multilingual guides and chefs. That’s what we’re about!
Since 1983, Kleintours has become a leading tourism operator in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands, providing deluxe cruises aboard our fi rst-rate expedition vessels M/V Galapagos Legend, M/YCoral I and M/YCoral II (100, 36 & 20 passengers each). Our dynamic mainland operation includes the Klein Tours exclusive “Chaski Route”, with visits to Andean communities where passengers can experience a fascinating multi-ethnic cross-cultural adventure, staying in local homes and engaging in farming activities, adventure hikes and horseback riding in the heart of the Andes.Kleintours provides the greatest variety of multilingual mainland expeditions for FITS, groups, families, adventure teams, incentive congresses through semi-private, private and customizable tourism itineraries in the Andes, Amazonia, and Pacifi c Coast.
C o m m i t t e d c r e w m e m b e r sD e l u x e C r u i s e F l e e t i n t h e G a l a p a g o s
C o m f o r t a b l e C a b i n s a n d S u i t e sS u s t a i n a b l e T o u r i s m a l o n g w i t h L o c a l c o m m u n i t i e s L i t t l e d e t a i l s m a k e a d i f f e r e n c e
L o c a l a n d I n t e r n a t i o n a l C u i s n eG r o u n d t r a n s p o r t a t i o n f l e e t
54
M/VGalapagos Legend
M/YCoral II
M/YCoral I
K l e i n T o u r s30 YEARS CREATING UNFORGETTABLE VACATIONS
FERNANDINA(NARBOROUGH)
NORTH SEYMOUR
BALTRA
SANTA FE(BARRINGTON)
SAN CRISTOBAL(CHATHAM)
Suárez Point Gardner Bay
Espinosa Point
Cerro AzulVolcano
Sierra NegraVolcano
AlcedoVolcano
Tagus Cove
DarwinVolcano
WolfVolcano
La CumbreVolcano
Moreno Point
Post OfficeChampion
Cormorant Point
TijeretasInter. Center
DragonHill
Ballena Bay
PLAZA
Urbina Bay
Bachas Beach
ISABELA(ALBEMARLE)
CerroMesa
CerroColorado
PittPoint
Egas Port
Reserve
BARTOLOME
SANTIAGO(SAN SALVADOR OR JAMES)
RABIDA(JERVIS)
Elizabeth Bay
Villamil Port
Ayora Port
Daphne
Baquerizo Port
SANTA CRUZ(INDEFATIGABLE)
Vicente Roca Point
Cerro Brujo
Pit Craters
SANTA MARIA(FLOREANA OR CHARLES)
ESPAÑOLA(HOOD)
FERNANDINA(NARBOROUGH)
NORTH SEYMOUR
BALTRA
SANTA FE(BARRINGTON)
SAN CRISTOBAL(CHATHAM)
Suárez Point Gardner Bay
Espinosa Point
Cerro AzulVolcano
Sierra NegraVolcano
AlcedoVolcano
Tagus Cove
DarwinVolcano
WolfVolcano
La CumbreVolcano
Moreno Point
Post OfficeChampion
Cormorant Point
TijeretasInter. Center
DragonHill
Ballena Bay
PLAZA
Urbina Bay
Bachas Beach
ISABELA(ALBEMARLE)
CerroMesa
CerroColorado
PittPoint
Egas Port
Reserve
BARTOLOME
SANTIAGO(SAN SALVADOR OR JAMES)
RABIDA(JERVIS)
Elizabeth Bay
Villamil Port
Ayora Port
Daphne
Baquerizo Port
SANTA CRUZ(INDEFATIGABLE)
Vicente Roca Point
Cerro Brujo
Pit Craters
SANTA MARIA(FLOREANA OR CHARLES)
ESPAÑOLA(HOOD)
M/V Galapagos LegendItinerar ies
Go as you please
Cruise: 3, 4, 7, 10, 11, 14 nights
departures: Mondays & Thursdays
Monday:
am. Baltra Airportpm. Highlands (Santa Cruz)Tuesday:am. Egas Port (Santiago) pm. BartolomeWednesday:am. Dragon Hill (Santa Cruz)pm. North Seymour
Thursday:am. Baltra Airport
Thursday: am. Baltra Airportpm. Ballena Bay or Eden Islet (Santa Cruz)Friday:am. Moreno Point (Isabela)pm. Elizabeth Bay (Isabela)Saturday:am. Urbina Bay (Isabela)pm. Tagus Cove (Isabela)Sunday:am. Espinosa Point (Fernandina)pm. Vicente Roca Point (Isabela)Monday:am. Highlands (Santa Cruz) Baltra Airport
Wednesday:am. Pitt Point & Islet (San Cristóbal)pm. Cerro Brujo (San Cristóbal)
Thursday:am. Cerro Colorado Tortoise Reserve (San Cristóbal) San Cristóbal Airport
Thursday: am. San Cristóbal Airport pm. Interpretation Center & Tijeretas (San Cristóbal)Friday:am. Gardner Bay, Gardner or Osborne Islets
(Española)pm. Suárez Point (Española)Saturday:am. Post Offi ce (Floreana)pm. Cormorant Point (Floreana)Sunday:am. Cerro Mesa Reserve (Santa Cruz)pm. Charles Darwin Research Station (Santa Cruz)Monday:am. Baltra airport
A B C D4 days / 3 nights
Monday - Thursday Monday - ThursdayThursday - Monday Thursday - Monday5 days / 4 nights 4 days / 3 nights 5 days / 4 nights
Tuesday:am. North Seymour (CI) Rábida (CII) pm. Bachas Beach (Santa Cruz) SN
Wednesday:am. Daphne Islet (CI)pm. North Seymour (CII) Baltra Airport
Wednesday: am Baltra Airportpm. Bahia Ballena or Eden Islet (Santa Cruz)Thursday:am. Tortoise Reserve & Sierra Negra (Isabela)pm. Humedales, Muro de las Lagrimas, Centro de
Crianza Villamil Port (Isabela) Friday:am. Moreno Point (Isabela)pm. Elizabeth Bay (Isabela)Saturday:am. Tagus Cove (Isabela)pm. Espinosa Point (Fernandina)Sunday:am. Baltra Airport
Sunday:am. Baltra Airportpm Charles Darwin Research Station (Santa Cruz)Monday:am. Cormorant Point, (Floreana) Champion CII or Devil´s Crown CI pm. Post Offi ce (Floreana)Tuesday:am. Gardner Bay & Gardner or Osborne Islet
(Española) pm. Suárez Point (Española)Wednesday:am. Interpretation Center & Tijeretas
(San Cristóbal) San Cristóbal Airport
Wednesday: am. San Cristóbal Airportpm. Cerro Colorado Tortoise Reserve (San Cristóbal)Thursdayam. Cerro Brujo (San Cristóbal)pm. Pitt Point & Pitt Islet (San Cristóbal)Friday:am. Espumilla Beach & Buccaneer Cove (Santiago) pm. Egas Port (Santiago)Saturday:am. Bartolomépm. Sullivan Bay (Santiago)Sunday:am. Charles Darwin Research Station (Santa Cruz) Baltra airport
A B C D4 days / 3 nights
Sunday - Wednesday Wednesday - Sunday Sunday - Wednesday Wednesday - Sunday5 days / 4 nights 4 days / 3 nights 5 days / 4 nights
G a l a p a g o s I s l a n d s G a l a p a g o s I s l a n d s
Kleintours reserves the right to change itineraries without prior notice due to Galapagos National Park regulations, force majeure or any consideration at captain´s discretion, see KT´s policies. Kleintours reserves the right to change itineraries without prior notice due to Galapagos National Park regulations, force majeure or any consideration at captain´s discretion, see KT´s policies.
This is a paradise where animals have no fear of man; it is a magical realm where creatures seem to be enchanted. They have fantastic, unique and fascinating forms with behaviors impossible to fi nd anywhere else in the world. Kleintours will make your island experience the most balanced blend of vacation and adventure, joining the paradisiacal waters, distinctly colored beaches and the best in cruise service with a most exciting journey into the realms of Natural History. We have thoughtfully planned out all aspects of your itinerary so that you can make the most out of your discovery of these Enchanted Isles.
G i a n t T o r t o i s e i n t h e H i g h l a n d s
8
G a l a p a g o s I s l a n d s“THE ENCHANTED ISLANDS”
BARTOLOMEGreat snorkeling opportunities with penguins and sea lions off a golden-sand beach at the foot of popular Pinnacle Rock.
RABIDAA red sand beach with a large sea lion colony, Palo Santo forests, endemic cacti, and the only Galapagos site where the nine Dawin’s fi nches are found.
SANTA FEOffering one of the most beautiful and sheltered coves in the islands, home to a number of endemic species including Galapagos Hawk, Darwin’s fi nches and endemic land iguana.
M a r i n e I g u a n a
B l u e - F o o t e d B o o b y d a n c eZ a y a p a i m p o r t a n t c r u s t a c e a n i n t h e G a l a p a g o s
M a r i n e T u r t l eR e d - F o o t e d B o o b yP e n g u i n s a d d a p t e d t o t h e T r o p i c
9
A p a r a d i s e w h e r e a n i m a l s h a v e u n i q u e b e h a v i o r
10
B l o w h o l e i n E s p a ñ o l a I s l a n d
G r e a t e r F l a m i n g oB l u e - F o o t e d B o o b y a n d b r ow n Pe l i c a nI g u a n a ’ s t r a i l
L a v a L i z a r dN a z c a B o o b yG r e a t F r i g a t e b i r d , f e m a l e a n d m a l e
11
ISABELADiscover mangrove forests, lava crevices, penguins, fl amingos, sea turtles, marine iguanas, tidal pools and the unusual Flightless Cormorant in the largest of the Galapagos Islands.
NORTH SEYMOURDiscover seabird colonies and witness the most intimate courtship, breeding and nesting behaviors up close and personal.
SANTA CRUZTortoises, lava tunnels, white-sand beaches and a picturesque modern town bring lift to one of Galapagos greenest, most tropical islands.
ESPAÑOLAEspañola highlights include Waved Albatross and Blue-footed Booby courting and nesting grounds as well as the spectacular backdrop of Punta Suárez blowhole.
FERNANDINAThe youngest and probably the only island in the world without introduced species, admire astounding volcanic landscapes at a site often perceived as a ‘land without time’.
FLOREANA Floreana is fascinating in terms of human history and geologic formation, with penguins, fl amingoes, sting rays, sea turtle nesting sites and sharks.
U n i q u e w i l d l i f e o p p o r t u n i t i e s F l i g h t l e s s c o r m o r a n t
12
D a r w i n ´ s F i n c h e s e v i d e n c e o f e v o l u t i o n L a n d i g u a n a , p r i m i t i v e a n d s c u l p t u a l
G a l a p a g o s P i r a t e sG r e a t b l u e h e r o nS w a l l o w - t a i l e d g u l l
13
SAN CRISTOBALHome of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno,Galapagos capital; Charles Darwin fi rst landing spot. Red footed boobies, Galapagos tortoises and sea lions.
PLAZAS ISLANDOne of the smallest yet depending on the season, most colorful islands, with sea lion colonies, land and hybrid iguanas and countless birds soaring by the cliffs.
SANTIAGOExplore deep pools and caves carved from the lava shoreline, home to playful Galapagos fur seals as well as a variety of resident and migrant bird species.
DAPHNEEroded islet home to Blue-footed Booby, Nazca Booby, Red-billed Tropicbird, Swallow-tailed Gull, Brown Noddy and other marine favorites.
K a y a k i n g i n c l e a r w a t e r s
BRACE YOURSELF
Waking up to the sights of a new island each
morning sets the stage for your very own
evolutionary process, from initial curiosity to the
sheer excitement of knowing something new
and wonderful is out there waiting to amaze you.
Every day brings new surprises and you will want
to be ready…
P i n n a c l e r o c k , B a r t o l o m e I s l a n d
14
I s l a n d A c t i v i t i e s ON THEIR TURF
Evolution is a rather obscure, fl eeting idea in
our everyday life, but in the Galapagos it is a
spectacle of majestic proportions, in which every
inhabitant is an active protagonist who wants to
show you just how good they are at it. Far from
having anything to hide, they seem pleased to
share their lives with you. This is the most unique
performance that Nature has to offer.
T h e b e s t j o u r n e y f o r f a m i l i e s
G e t t i n g t h e b e s t s h o tA g i a n t T o r t o i s e i n i t s h a b i t a t
U n i q u e e x p e r i e n c e s A f u n n y w a y t o l e a r n f o r k i d s G a l a p a g o s i n l o v e
15
PHOTOGRAPHERS WELCOME
They will pose. And they’ll pose again… until you
get it right. A good subject wouldn’t have it any
other way and the photographer in you won’t want
to miss a beat… So don’t forget your telephoto
lenses, your disposable underwater cameras, and
as many memory cards as you can get your hands
on… you’ll be taking pictures!
C a n d e l a b r a P r i c k l y - p e a r c a c t u s
16
EXCITING ON LAND...
FASCINATING DOWN UNDER!
Cormorants forgot to fl y, iguanas learned to swim;
turtles became gigantic, and sharks mild; a place
where sea lions show off their swimming skills and
blue-footed boobies perform their elegant two step
mating dance right under your nose, and explore a
spectacular underwater spectrum.
S a n t i a g o I s l a n d
P r i s t i n e b e a c h e s
A m a z i n g s n o r k e l i n g o p p o r t i n i t i e sG e o l o g i c a l f o r m a t i o n s
17
M a r i n e w i l d l i f e
P o s t c a r d t r a d i t i o n s i n c e 1 7 9 2
This deluxe expedition ship has all the amenities
of a cruise line, yet it is still small enough for a
more intimate experience with nature.
Panoramic windows not only allow you to
observe your destination but also to be part of
it. In its ample social areas you will be able to
do countless activities: take your afternoon tea in
D e l u x e e x p e d i t i o n s h i p
18
M / V G a l a p a g o s L e g e n dthe interpretation center, or mingle with fellow
passengers, family and friends at the bar beside
our pool.
With only one hundred people on board you
will enjoy exclusive service and a personalized
attention. The Galapagos Legend affords an array
of generous seaward verandas over the great Pacifi c
Ocean and a comfortable, inviting atmosphere for
solace and relaxation.
B r a n d n e w w i n e m e n uM u l t i p l e t e r r a c e sM a g i c a l s u n s e t
M a r i n e d e c o r a t i o nU n f o r g e t t a b l e m o m e n t s
19
100 PASSENGERS
We l c o m e C o c k t a i l a t t h e m a i n l o u n g e
What puts the Galapagos Legend in a class of its
own is the wide variety of spacious outdoor decks
for lounging and sea-gazing from all sides. This is
combined with ample, yet cozy indoor social areas
with picture windows: the grandeur of expedition
cruising while maintaining that intimate fl avor
you´ve been looking for.
From baking that special birthday cake to making
sure every last question has been answered in
detail, our crew will show you how glad they are
to serve you, with a range of friendly treats that
will surely make you feel a part of the family.
On special evenings, we also couple the beguiling
sunsets over the Pacifi c Ocean with an outdoor
barbecue.
S u p e r b d i n n e r B B Q
20
L i f e a t S e a w i t h
S t a r g a z i n g
T h e F i s h e r m a n ´ s B a rF r e s h a n d d e l i g h t f u l f o o d
I n e t r p r e t a t i o n c e n t e r w i t h i n t e r n e t
21
WITH ALL THE TRIMMINGS
We l c o m e C o c k t a i l a t t h e m a i n l o u n g e
D e l u x e d i n i n g r o o m
22
M a i n L o u n g e
C h i l d r e n a t t h e i r o w n c o r n e rI c e c r e a m f e s t i v a l
F r e s h b u f f e t s t a t i o nR e l a x i n g i n m a s s a g e c h a i r s S u r p r i s e b i r t h d a y c e l e b ra t i o n o n b o a r d
23
Enjoy the evening lights with a cool drink, exquisite
food and a friendly atmosphere to mingle with
fellow travelers.
Take part in our Neptune Party and fi nd the
seafarer in you, refresh a day’s outing at our ice
cream festival, show off your talents during karaoke
night, let your children enjoy a set of activities
specially designed for them.
The Galapagos Legend offers indoor and outdoor
amenities, including a reading room, cozy sitting
rooms, a poolside bar and sun lounging of the best
kind, that complement the excitement on land to
perfection.N e p t u n e ´ s p a r t y c r o s s i n g t h e E q u a t o r
Sea deckP. Embarkation areaQ. RestaurantR. Medical service
BALCONY SUITE PLUS
BALCONY SUITE
JUNIOR SUITE
STANDARDLEGEND SUITE
STANDARD PLUS
The ultimate in cruising comfort and fl exibility, cabins and suites on the M/VGalapagos Legend come in a variety of arrangements to suit your desires Our NEW Balcony Suite Plus with extra space in cabin and bathroom, average area; 22,79 m² / 245 sq², 2 private balconies, innovative decoration, special amenities, champagne and bathrobes, Safety box, LCD TV with a Video system for entertainment on board with music, activities and itineraries, wheelchair services, and interconnected cabin facilities making the “Galapagos Balcony” the biggest suite on board average size of 43.79 m² / 471.3 sq².
G A L A P A G O S B A L C O N Y P L U S
C A B I N S
Cabins and Suites on board offer maximum amenities while keeping with our strict policy and ethics towards the defense and protection of the fragile environments in which we operate, AC, fresh hot and cold water, private bathrooms, multimedia system in cabins for entertainment, hair dryers, safety-deposit boxes, extra storage. Our deluxe categories; 4 Legend Suites with panoramic windows, extra space; 20 m2 / 214 ft2.. The exclusive 8 Balcony suites with its very own terrace, adjoining suites and triple facilities, refrigerator with champagne and an average size of 22,79 m² / 245 sq², are the best way to experiences the beautiful Galapagos Islands along with interconnected cabins to create a deluxe living space and sofa bed.
From the luxurious 24 Junior Suites with panoramic windows that can be interconnected with other cabins to create the extra space you are looking for, the average area is 15 m2 / 159 ft2., to the quaint 3 Standard Interior cabins and 17 Standard Plus Cabins, located on the Earth Deck and Sea Deck respectively with panoramic skylight and a comfortable size average area of 11m2 / 118ft2. Both categories have: low twin beds or queen size, AC, phone service, video system with LCD TV for cabin´s entertainment, safe-deposit box and private bathroom.
G A L A PAG O S B A L C O N Y J U N I O R S U I T E
G A L A PAG O S L E G E N D STANDARD PLUS CABIN STANDARD CABIN
Both equally comfortable with thoughtful interior and exterior distributions.
The M/YCorals I & II are attractively decorated, spacious vessels with cozy, fully-equipped
cabins. Recommended for the adventurous visitor who demands a closer encounter
with the ocean’s waters.
28 29
M/YCORAL I & CORAL I I U p s c a l e a c c o m m o d a t i o n S a i l i n g t o g e t h e r , s a m e i t i n e r a r y a n d d e p a r t u r e d a t e s
D e l u x e t w i n y a c h t s
S p e c i a l g u e s t s o n b o a r d
20 PASSENGERS36 PASSENGERS
Kick back on comfy sun-loungers and feel
the sea breeze or soak in a whirlpool while
rekindling the marvelous experiences of the
day’s excursions amongst your friends and
family. “Life” onboard the Corals is a marine
delight.
Activities onboard tend to carry a more
informal nature as you quickly get to know
your fellow passengers on these lovely,
medium sized yachts. It is also a great
choice for a group traveling together, with
interconnecting cabins and easy access from
one area to another.
O u r m o t i v a t e d c r e w m e m b e r s
30
T h e S e a
S p a c i o u s m a i n l o u n g e
C o m f o r t a b l e d i n i n g o n a b e a u t i f u l y a c h tS a f e t y o u r p r i o r i t yV a r i e t y a n d f r e s h f o o d e v e r y d a y
S h a r i n g w i t h n e w f r i e n d s o n b o a r dP r i v a t e e x p e r i e n c e
31
CAN BE YOURS
B B Q a t t h e A r c h i p e l a g o
32
S i p p i n g “ s p i r i t o f E c u a d o r ” c o c k t a i l
S u r p r i s e b i r t h d a y c e l e b r a t i o n o n b o a r dC h i l d r e n ´ s T - s h i r t d y e i n g a c t i v i t y
T r o p i c a l d e s s e r t sC e l e b r a t i n g i n a p r i v a t e c h a r t e r
33
You can quite simply make these yachts your
own, with unmatched personalized service
and fewer visitors per guide for a more
intimate island experience.
From organizing special activities when
children are on board to making sure that
every passenger has what they need to
enjoy the Galapagos Islands at their pace,
Kleintours’ makes every effort to defy your
expectations.
Handsome, modern, robust vessels bring
that extra sense of security so that your
R e l a x i n g a f t e r a n a d v e t u r o u s d a y
34
O c e a n v i e w d i n i n g r o o m
I d e a l c r u i s e f o r b i r d l o v e r sI c e c r e a m f e s t i v a lO u r s p e c i a l b a r
D a i l y l e c t u r e s a n d b r i e f i n g sG a l a p a g o s ´ s u n s e tD i n n i n g r o o m
35
holiday is relaxing and carefree and the high
personnel-to-passenger ratios on our cruises
say how much Kleintours really cares.
The Galapagos Islands, it is well known, is
a romantic voyage into the natural world,
where you will witness nature at its closest,
where you will discover the true origins of Life
on the Earth. Put freedom and adventure to
the test, combining matchless intimacy with
wildlife with tailored service and the coziest,
most personal experience. The Corals place
you face to face with the Enchanted Isles.
MOON DECK
SKY DECK
EARTH DECK
SEA DECK
36 passengers
M/YCORAL I20 passangers
M/YCORAL II
STANDARD PLUS
STANDARD
JUNIOR
TRIPLE CABINSNew
Moon deckA. Sun and Shadow terrace BBQ area Chill out area ObservatorySky deckB. Roofed terraceEarth deckC. JacuzziD. LoungeE. RestaurantF. BarG. BoutiqueH. LibraryI. Embarkation areaSea deck Cabins
Our cozy and comfortable cabins´ categories fulfi ll the intimate experience you are looking for ; From our 3 Standard cabins with 7 m2 / 75 ft2, 12 Standard Plus Cabins with 12m2 / 128 ft2 located on the Sea Deck with panoramic skylight, to our 14 Junior Suites with panoramic windows, located in the upper decks with a comfortable size 12 m2 / 128 ft2. Some cabins interconnected with other cabins to create the extra space, All categories have: low twin beds or queen size, AC, phone service, Video system with LCD TV for cabin´s entertainment, safe-deposit box and private bathroom.
JUNIOR
C A B I N S
S TA N DA R D P L U S S TA N DA R D
Quito, UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, is a multicolored urban quilt draped across the steep slopes and undulating inter-Andean valleys at the foot of Pichincha Volcano. Strolling the narrow cobblestone streets of Quito’s old-town is like walking through time and back again amidst splendid 16th century architecture, churches bathed in gold, convents tucked away behind hand–carved, baroque doors and block upon block of Spanish-style villas with their charming hidden courtyards.The Middle of the world complex and the Equator Monument situated at 0º0’0” latitude where the
C h i v a D o n O t t o i n a c i t y b y n i g h t
38
Q u i t o 18th century French Geodesic Expedition built one of the three pyramids as landmarks for their planet calculations to deduct the shape of the earth.
Q u i t o ’ s s u r r o u n d i n g sthe lush cloud forests of Mindo, located no more than an hour-and-a-half drive from the capital city have received world acclaim for its orchids and hummingbirds, where walks through moss ridden forest, kayaking along torrential jungle rivers, bathing in cool, quiet, crystalline streams bring you to the most intimate contact with what the Incas called the Pacha Mama-or Mother Earth.
A n c e n s t r a l t r a d i t i o n s c l o s e t o t h e c a p i t a l c i t y
P a p a l l a c t a b e y o n d t h e h o t s p r i n g w a t e r sL a R o n d a n e i g h b o r h o o dM o d e r n Q u i t o
M i d d l e o f t h e w o r l d c o m p l e xH u m m i n g b i r d J a c o b i n ( M a q u i p u c u n a )1 6 t h c e n t u r y c h u r c h e s
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A SAFE, PICTURESQUE CITY WITH ALLTHE COMMODITIES OF COSMOPOLITAN LIFE
You can’t leave this wonderful corner of the world
without an Otavalo shopping spree. This world
renowned craft fair offers countless handmade
products from leatherwork, beautifully carved
sculptures, musical instruments, wondrous gold
B e a u t i f u l h a n d - e m b r o i d e r e d d r e s s e s
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C h a s k i R o u t eOtavalo & Surroundings
pearl necklaces, and rich naïve paintings to the
myriad of hues that embellish everything from
sweaters, hammocks, tapestries, and rugs to skirts,
blankets, and the nearly endless variety of styles,
textures and patterns that adorn the emblematic
ponchos of the Ecuadorean highlands.
I m b a b u r a V o l c a n o
M u s i c i a n s w e l c o m i n g o u r t o u r i s t sP u r e C o t t o n t e x t i l e s
T h e l o o m , p r o u d t r a d i t i o n a l i v eL l a m a i n M i r a L a g oO t a v a l o i n d i g e n o u s m a r k e t
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IMAGINE A MARKETPLACE THATCAN FILL AN ENTIRE TOWN!
Nearby Otavalo market and Ibarra, once home to Atahualpa, the last of the Incan emperors, the Karanki community of Magdalena inhabits a paradise lost in time, amongst llamas and condors, peaceful lagoons and the patchwork slopes of Imbabura Volcano. It is immersed in this breathtaking pastoral setting that the Karanki keep the same harmonious relationship with their environment they’ve kept for centuries, tending to their livestock, cultivating their land and enjoying the clear mountain air.
C h a s k i R o u t eM a g d a l e n a - K a r a n k i
H o r s e b a c k r i d i n g i n t h e N o r t h e r n A n d e s
M a g d a l e n a f r i e n d l y C o m m u n i t y
A n d e a n t r a d i t i o n sBik ing nearby Magdalena
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A PARADISE LOST IN TIME
Bikes
MagdalenaBridge
Zuleta / 10 min. from Magdalena
Ibarra 30 min. from Magdalena
Zuleta
Rinconada
15 min. from MagdalenaLa Esperanza
Train Station
Cunrro HillHiking: 3 hrs
Cayambe Volcano
KARANKIMAGDALENACOMMUNITY
Bakery
CommunalHouse
EmbroideryCenter
Soccer field
LOS GIRASOLES
ARRAYANTAMBI FAMILY
1 Qtl, 1 Dbl, 1 SGL / 7 Pax
Cubilche HillHiking: 8 hrs / Horseback : 4 hrs
toQUITO
2 h. to Otavalo
LAS ROSASMOLINA FAMILY
2 Dbl / 4 Pax
DEL ALISOESCOLA FAMILY
2 Dbl / 4 Pax
LOS GERANIOSTAMBI FAMILY
2 Dbl / 4 Pax
LOS CIPRESESMOLINA FAMILY
1 Tpl / 1 Dbl / 5 Pax
FAMILY IBAZA 4 Dbl / 8 Pax
Zuleta
Ibarra
Otavalo22 min. from Ibarra
Salinas20 min. from Ibarra
Pan-
Amer
ican
Highway
KarankiAtahualpa Museum
San Clemente25 min.
from Magdalena
Karanki - Magdalena
Riobamba
CotopaxiEl Coca
Cuenca
KarankiMagdalena
NS
W
E
The natural realm of this hidden mountain niche can be absorbed in a series of optional activities such as horseback riding, mountain biking, or hiking up Mount Cunrro and around Cubilche Lake. Through our endeavors, stay at six local homes for 33 guests, those visiting the community can stay overnight and enjoy exquisite meals prepared with the crops of the land and the imposing mornings of the magnetic Ecuadorian Andes.Come and admire the beauty of their embroidery, share their everyday shepherding and harvesting activities and stand face-to-face with a people untouched by the urgencies of modern life.
T r a d i t i o n a l m e n u
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I b a r r a - S a l i n a s r e n o v a t e d t r a i n r i d e
S a l t m u s e u m C u l t u r a l c o n n e c t i o n
S a l i n a s ´ c o m m u n i t yP r i v a t e r o o m s w i t h b a t h r o o m
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S a l i n a sEnjoy the renovated railway Ibarra-Salinas the train climbs down through sugarcane plantations, magical landscapes, tunnels and crossing bridges that span canyons and gullies. A 26-km ride to Salinas plunges from 2,200 down to 1,500 meters (7,216 to 4,920 feet) in only 1 1/2 hours. Passengers are joyously received by the candor of music and children. At lunchtime, delicious local cuisine can be enjoyed at the town restaurant, which has been entirely refurbished by Kleintours and is currently managed by the community; guest will also have the opportunity to visit the Salt Museum.
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A necklace of ‘snow-cones’ like a jeweled crown, Chimborazo, El Altar, Antisana, Cayambe, llinizas, Tungurahua and the mighty Cotopaxi to name perhaps the most emblematic are all highly prized mountain-climbing destinations that rise well over 5000 meters (16,000 ft) above sea level, giving the overall Andean landscape, viewable from large cities to small towns.The landscape is fi lled with vibrant colors taken from nature’s beauty with corn fi elds, grass and native plants adding to this colorful pallet.
T h e i m p r e s i v e E c u a d o r i a n A n d e s
Q u i l o t o a v o l c a n i c l a k e
A n c e s t r a l h a n d i c r a f t sWaterfal l in Baños called “Pailon del Diablo”
T h e A n d e sTHE AVENUE OF THE VOLCANOES
Middle of the World
Mindo
Quito
Papallacta Terms
Misahualli
AntisanaMachachi
Cotopaxi
Saquisili
Pujilí
Latacunga
Quilotoa
Baeza
Puyo
BañosRiobamba
Chimborazo
Devil’s NoseTrain El Altar
Ingapirca RuinsCuenca
Chordeleg
Gualaceo
CajasNational Park
Guayaquil
Cacao &Banano Plantations
Manta
MachalillaNational Park
Islade la Plata
Tungurahua
N
S
W E
The Avenueof the Volcanoes
Magdalena Salinas
Otavalo
C o t o p a x i , h i g h e s t a c t i v e v o l c a n o i n t h e w o r l d I n g a p i r c a I n c a ´ s c o m p l e x
F r i e n d l y p e o p l e f r o m t h e A n d e sC h i m b o r a z o S n o w C a p p e d M o i n t a i n
R e n o v a t e d E c u a d o r i a n r a i l w a y l i n e
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Cuenca is the third largest city of Ecuador and is the scenic convergence of four vigorous Andean rivers and a “World Heritage” colonial center in its own right. A well-rounded crafty breed of citizens, talented in a range of creative endeavors from intricate basket weaving to fi ne silverwork, are the generous hosts of this hospitable town. They will proudly show you their best work. The city also features countless memorable points of interest, from colonial plazas, or cozy bars overlooking the riverbank to fragrant fl ower markets and historic churches. Ingapirca Ruins, Gualaceo, Chordeleg and Cajas National park are some of the visits that must be included.
People wear bright ponchos and typical hats; they continue with their ancient harvesting traditions and live with their animals. In Ecuador it is easy to have close encounters with indigenous communities that still keep their own languages, traditions, and beliefs in magical towns such as Saquisili, Pujili, Baños, Salcedo, Riobamba, Alausi to be included in your journeys.Ecuador’s cultural colors are represented by more than 13 different languages and some 40-odd ethnic groups who take pride in their ancestral customs. Such unique human diversity in an area no larger than the U.S. state of Colorado gives testimony to the extreme complexities that make Ecuador what it is.
T o m a m a r i n a c o n t o r t u g a e n G a l á p a g o s
49
C u e n c a , s u r r o u n d e d b y f o u r r i v e r s
A d m i r e i t s c o l o n i a l a r c h i t e c t u r eH a n d m a d e p a n a m a h a t s
C u e n c aHERITAGE IN ITS OWN RIGHT
T h e A n d e s
A f r i e n d y “ c o s t e ñ o ”L a s P e ñ a s r e s t o r e d n e i g h b o r h o o d
P r i s t i n e b e a c h e s i n t h e P a c i f i c c o a s t
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Guayaqu i l & The Coas tEXPERIENCE THE CHARM OF THE PACIFIC COAST
The largest city in Ecuador, Guayaquil is a modern, bustling metropolis in the heart of tropical America, constantly striving for change with a people of unique warmth and grace. Malecón 2000, the complete makeover of Guayaquil’s boardwalk, and the recent restoration of Barrio Las Peñas, the original Spanish settlement site of the city, have re-appropriated the city port ward life and are always busy hangouts that feature a range of bars, restaurants, boutiques, museums, gardens and magnifi cent views.
At just about 3 hours or 45 minutes direct fl ight from the nation’s capital, you can be fl oating in silence down the still black waters of a jungle stream, deep in shadow amid a careful choral orchestration of countless creatures and immersed in the most exuberant botanical garden on Earth. Discover the active understory through jungle hikes or walk along a canopy bridge for unsurpassable views and face to face interaction with monkeys and other unique tree dwellers. Many different birds, insects, dolphins, tapirs, capybaras, and other animals can be found here in their natural habitat.
T o m a m a r i n a c o n t o r t u g a e n G a l á p a g o s
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C o m f o r t a b l e l o d g e s w i t h a l l f a c i l i t i e s
B i o d i v e r s i t y a t i t s p u r e s tA d v e n t u r e p a r a d i s e
A m a z o n i aTHE TREASURES OF THE
RAINFOREST COULDN’T BE CLOSER
H i d d e n c o m m u n i t i e sG u a y a q u i l l a r g e s t a n d m o d e r n c i t y
M a c h u P i c c h u , l a r g e s t I n c a ´ s c o m p l e x
M i s t e r i o u s N a z c a l i n e s
L i m a c a p i t a l c i t y F o l l o w i n g I n c a ´ s f o o t p r i n t s
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E cuador & Pe r uPeru, a country deeply rooted in tradition and identity. The magnifi cent ruins of Machu Picchu, perhaps the most visited landmark in Peru, the Lost City hold a mystique of universal appeal, where the feeling of communion with the past and its spirits will truly captivate you.Other attractions such as; the city of Cuzco refl ects the ancient remains of sacred Incan temples, the capital Lima is an important cultural interest destination, Nazca with its enigmatic earth art only observable from high above, Puerto Maldonado frontier town for the Amazon jungle tours and the spellbinding Titicaca the world’s largest lake.
A m a z o n r i v e r s w i t h l o t s o f w i l d l i f e
D a i l y l a n d s c a p e
S p e c t a c u l a r w a t e r f a l l i n t h e m i d d l e o f t h e J u n g l e
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Within and around the huge protected areas of the Amazon rainforest, several tribes inhabit Ecuador’s Amazon basin, including the Shuar, Ashuar, Secoyas, Cofán, Huaorani, and Quichua.Upscale lodges were built to blend in with the natural environment. Naturalist guides take visitors on all sorts of excursions: walks through the forest to learn about the medicinal properties of the local plants. It is estimated that at least 7,000 medical components and ingredients are derived from plants of the Amazon region.