When you arrive, a guide who speaks English will be there to meet you outside of Customs. They will have a sign with your name on it. The guide will show you where to go to meet your private driver and vehicle. They will also go with you to your accommodation to help you check in.

Quito, a city with narrow cobblestone streets and whitewashed walls, is home to numerous historic churches and boasts one of the best-preserved colonial centers in South America. In 1978, the United Nations declared it a World Cultural Heritage Site, ensuring the preservation of this fascinating city. Discover the city's Main Plaza with a private guide and see the Government Palace, the breathtaking gilded church of La Compañía, and other important churches from the 16th and 17th centuries, such as the San Francisco Monastery. Explore La Ronda, a famous colonial street, to learn about traditional jobs in colonial Quito. Your final destination is Panecillo, a hill that divides the city into north and south. Here, admire the renowned statue Our Lady of the Panecillo, created by Bernardo de Legarda, while taking in the magnificent views of the city. After a lunch break in the emblematic neighborhood of La Ronda, indulge in a chocolate sampling experience. Begin with a guided tour that delves into the history of cocoa in Ecuador. Cocoa has been highly regarded in Latin America for millennia, earning the title "Food of the Gods" from Spanish explorers who greatly valued it. Learn about Republica del Cacao, a company dedicated to producing authentic chocolate and developing sustainable fine cocoa production practices. This day of exploration concludes with a private transfer back to your hotel.

Don't miss the chance to explore pre-Columbian art and culture in a unique way by visiting one of Quito's most exclusive and highly-regarded museums. With the guidance of a local expert who is also the museum curator, you will have the opportunity to delve into the world of pre-Columbian art and history like never before. This special tour will take you behind the scenes of the museum, allowing you to admire treasures typically hidden in storage rooms, learn about the conceptualization of each exhibit, and discover the mysteries yet to be unraveled. This exclusive experience is only available on Wednesdays.

Experience the culinary delights of Ecuador at Urko Cocina Local, one of Quito's top restaurants known for its casual and inviting atmosphere. Using ingredients from various regions of the country, Urko Cocina Local offers a journey through Ecuador's history and culinary heritage with its masterfully prepared dishes. Reservations will be arranged in advance, and you will be provided with round-trip transportation in a private vehicle. Please note that the cost of your meal is not included and must be paid for at the restaurant. Reservations are confirmed upon booking and are subject to availability.

Your private driver and English-speaking guide will transfer you to Quito Airport. Board a flight from Quito to Baltra Island, with a layover in Guayaquil. The flight takes about three and a half hours. Note that flight rates and availability may change until booking.

The Galapagos National Park entrance fee is included in your itinerary. Please be aware that all Galapagos excursions are tentative and subject to change based on National Park regulations, weather conditions, safety precautions, and wildlife encounters. A fuel surcharge is applicable for all Galapagos cruises and flights, and these charges are included in your trip price. Fuel surcharges may change without notice, and additional fees may apply during your travel.

The Galapagos tourist transit card is included in your itinerary.

All visitors to the Galapagos Islands must have medical travel insurance. You must provide proof of insurance upon entry, and your policy must be valid for the duration of your stay. You can purchase medical travel insurance through Kensington Tours or independently. Please consult your Destination Expert for more information.

Upon arrival at Baltra Island Airport, go through immigration and baggage control. A representative from the M/Y Grand Majestic will greet you after customs. They will guide you to a coach that will transfer you to the ship. Once on board, settle into your stateroom, enjoy a delicious lunch, and attend a welcome briefing.

The Charles Darwin Research Station and Fausto Llerena Breeding Center is home to turtles of various sizes, from newborn hatchlings to four-foot-long adults. This visit provides an excellent introduction to the region. Different subspecies of turtles interact with each other, and some of the older turtles are used to human presence, making for great photo opportunities. The baby turtles are cared for until they are strong enough to survive on their own, and then they are released into the wild. After your visit to the research station, you will be taken back to the M/Y Grand Majestic.

Also called El Barranco, Prince Phillip's Steps is a steep, rocky path that leads up a high cliff-face. It is a moderately challenging walk, but the stunning view at the top makes it worthwhile. In addition, nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers will appreciate the presence of Palo Santo vegetation and various bird species such as red-footed boobies, short-eared lava owls, Galapagos swallows, storm-petrels, and Galapagos doves. After a dry landing, you will embark on a one-mile hike for an invigorating experience.

On the other hand, if you have a wet landing, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the white sand and coral beach of Darwin Bay. The half-mile trail meanders through mangroves where you can spot land birds like Nazca boobies, red-footed boobies, and swallow-tailed gulls. Further along the path, you will come across tidal pools where playful sea lions often swim, sometimes accompanied by hammerhead sharks and colorful reef fish. As you reach the end of the trail, you will be treated to breathtaking cliff-side views. Whether you choose to snorkel or kayak, there are plenty of opportunities for both relaxing and adventurous activities.

Rabida Island, also known as Jervis Island, offers a plethora of attractions. It is renowned for its vibrant colors, diverse landscapes, and abundant wildlife. The island boasts a maroon sandy beach, breathtaking lookout points, and a remarkable variety of rare bird species. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling in the area, as well as embark on a short hike that spans just over half a mile. This makes for a relatively effortless morning adventure.

Located near the southeast coast of Santiago Island, Chinese Hat Island derives its name from the distinctive shape of its summit. This small islet is a paradise for those interested in geology. It features various geological formations such as lava tubes and lava flows. Upon arrival, visitors can choose to partake in a leisurely hike to explore the volcanic landscape or opt for an underwater exploration with snorkeling gear. A wet landing marks the beginning of this exciting experience.

One of the most beautiful beaches in the Galapagos is Witch Hill, located on the northern coast. The area boasts white sandy shores and a wide variety of animals including sea turtles, mockingbirds, coral, rays, and booby birds. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or kayaking in the clear water.

Lobos Island, also known as Sea Lion Island, is a must-see for nature enthusiasts. This island is home to lively and playful sea lions who will warmly greet you. Snorkeling is a popular activity on Lobos Island, and visitors may also spot blue-footed and Nazca boobies. After arriving at the island, take a short hike to explore the surroundings or opt for a leisurely dinghy ride or a refreshing swim in the azure waters.

After breakfast on board and saying goodbye to the captain and crew of the M/Y Grand Majestic, start your day by visiting the Interpretation Center on San Cristobal Island. This will help you better understand and appreciate the wonders of the archipelago. The center, established in 1998, showcases the history of the islands, including both natural and human aspects. It also highlights local conservation efforts aimed at protecting the wildlife and environment through population and tourism control.

Once you have explored the Interpretation Center, you will be taken to San Cristobal Airport. Remember to pack your luggage the night before departure, as the ship's crew will transport it from the M/Y Grand Majestic to the airport while you visit the center.

Catch a flight from San Cristobal Island to Quito, with a connection in Guayaquil. The flight duration is approximately four hours and there is no need to change planes.

Before boarding your flight, take some time to relax in the VIP Lounge at Quito International Airport. Access to the lounge is included, offering a peaceful environment with complimentary refreshments, Wi-Fi, and reading materials.