I’m so excited to invite you to join my next tour to the breathtaking Galapagos Islands this October! After my recent journey to this magical destination—one of the best trips I’ve ever experienced—I knew I had to return and share this adventure with others. This exclusive 12-day/11-night tour is designed for a small group of only 16 people, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. Our journey will include highlights such as the vibrant Otavalo Indigenous Market, the mystical Cloud Forest, and a soft adventure on the world-famous Galapagos Islands, where we’ll explore its stunning landscapes and iconic wildlife.
Experience the Holiday Season in Branson, Missouri!
I’m so excited to invite you to join my next tour to the breathtaking Galapagos Islands this October! After my recent journey to this magical destination—one of the best trips I’ve ever experienced—I knew I had to return and share this adventure with others. This exclusive 12-day/11-night tour is designed for a small group of only 16 people, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. Our journey will include highlights such as the vibrant Otavalo Indigenous Market, the mystical Cloud Forest, and a soft adventure on the world-famous Galapagos Islands, where we’ll explore its stunning landscapes and iconic wildlife.
We’ve chartered a private 16-passenger cruise exclusively for our group, allowing us to immerse ourselves fully in the unique beauty of the Galapagos Archipelago. From visiting the giant Galapagos tortoises in the Santa Cruz highlands and the serene Tortuga Bay beach to learning about conservation at the Charles Darwin Research Station, every moment promises wonder and discovery. As always, I’ll handle every detail of your trip, so all you have to do is pack your bags and get ready for an extraordinary experience. Let’s embark on this unforgettable adventure together!
To book this tour contact the Group Tour Manager listed below:
Carol Alegre, Tour Manager
Tel: (801) 483-6165
Email Carol
Highlights
- 1 tour-bus experience for the whole tour!
- Morris Murdock tour Director on for the whole trip along with local guides for city
Departure from your home city to Quito, Ecuador. Upon arrival in Quito, our representative will wait for us at the airport to assist us with a transfer to the hotel.
Meals : In-flight
Today, our guide will drive us for a spectacular view over Quito’s mountainous landscape, hop aboard this sky tram, one of the world’s highest aerial lifts, that takes passengers on a 2.5km ride (10 minutes) up the flanks of Volcán Pichincha to the top of Cruz Loma.
Then, we will travel north where we will have lunch inside the crater of an extinct volcano. Afterwards, we will visit the Middle of the World Monument and The Intiñan Museum where we can experience didactic demonstrations of phenomena that manifest on the equinoctial zone. We will learn about how the Incas determined the middle of the earth, plus doing interesting science experiments such as balancing an egg on a nail and the effects of the Coriolis force on earth.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch
Our guide will take us on an exciting adventure to Cuicocha lake, one of Ecuador’s off-the-beaten-path sites. We will drive to this lake located in the crater of an extinct volcano. Cuicocha offers fascinating Andean landscapes that we will discover as we hike on its rim. Our guide will complement this experience with interesting information about indigenous cosmovision.
Later, our guide will take us to the Otavalo Market, which is a favorite for travelers. This is the largest market of its kind in all of South America, and well worth a visit. We will find some of the finest woven products in the region including ponchos, sweaters, wall hangings, shawls, souvenirs, and more. The Otavalo Market is an ideal place for shopping, but you will also learn about the origins of this tradition and about the culture of Otavalo indigenous groups. Our guide will drive us back to the hotel in Quito where we will be able to rest for the night and reload energies for the next day’s adventure.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch
After breakfast, our guide will be take us to the airport for your flight to Galapagos. Once we arrive on Baltra Island we will be met by our guide and transferred to the Monserrat.
Santa Cruz Highlands Excursion (PM)
Visit the highlands of Santa Cruz and see the Galápagos giant tortoise in its natural surroundings. Explore the area and its incredible underground lava tunnels – some are more than 1km long! Wander along the volcanic tubes and keep an eye out for the (mainly) nocturnal barn owls that sometimes roost here.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we will be visiting the beautiful and remote Genovesa Island. This northern island, famous for its red-footed colony, is a paradise for bird lovers. It is estimated that about 200,00 Red-footed boobies live on this island.
Darwin Bay Excursion (AM)
Darwin bay was formed by the collapse of the flooded caldera of Tower Island, another name used for Genovesa. After landing at a small sand and coral beach, it easy to realize why this island is a bird lover paradise. Among the bird species found here, the most common are swallow-tailed and lava gulls, mockingbirds, yellow-crowned night herons, lava herons, Galapagos doves and yellow warblers. We will continue on a short and flat trail to encounter red- footed booby and great frigatebird nests. We will visit a tidal lagoon where sea lions swim playfully ending our path on a cliff with magnificent views of this remote part of the Galapagos.
Darwin Bay Snorkeling (AM)
Time permitting, you can snorkel off-the-beach with playful sea lions and look for sea turtles on this surface snorkel.
El Barranco or Prince Phillips’s Steps as otherwise known, was named after a visit by the British Monarch in 1964. El Barranco’s steep 81-foot stairway leads up to a high cliff-face that opens out onto the plateau surrounding Darwin Bay.
Here an amazing view can be appreciated. Once at the top of the stairway we will meet Nazca boobies, red-footed boobies, mockingbirds, and finches along the way of a palo santo trail. It will also be possible to see wedge-rumped storm petrels swarm and short-eared owls.
Prince Phillips’s Steps Snorkeling (PM)
This deep water snorkeling offers you one of the best opportunities to observe unique marine wildlife including hammerhead sharks.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Bartolome Island Excursion (AM)
Hike to Bartolomé’s summit for a stronger perspective of the islands’ not-too-distant volcanic origins, and enjoy a panoramic view – it’s one of the best among the islands! See other Galápagos Islands in the distance as well as Pinnacle Rock, the island’s famous towering landmark.
Bartolome Island Snorkeling (AM)
Take the opportunity to swim and snorkel around Pinnacle Rock, one of the most iconic volcanic rock formations on the islands. Home to Galápagos penguins, friendly sea lions, sea turtles, and a huge variety of fish, Bartolomé and its surrounding waters are a fantastic place to explore the natural wonders of the Galápagos.
Bowditch Point Excursion (PM)
In the afternoon, you will visit one of the last off-the-beaten-path sites in the Galapagos Islands. Only a couple of cruises visit Bowditch Point. This pristine site offers you a great snorkeling session with giant schools of black-striped salema, parrotfish, and Mexican hogfish, or you can enjoy kayaking or SUP if you prefer. Afterwards, you spend time on the beach relaxing or walking around it.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today’s adventure begins with an early morning excursion as we bid farewell to our cruise and step onto the enchanting main island of Santa Cruz. Our morning excursion will take us to Bacha Beach, where the sand is made of decomposed coral, making it soft and white, and a favorite site for nesting sea turtles. We will spot abundant Sally Lightfoot crabs on the lava rocks along the water’s edge — these crabs will eat anything they can get their claws on! Trek to see a wide range of wildlife, including flamingos, hermit crabs, black necked stilts, and sea lions.
Our day unfolds with a visit to the renowned Charles Darwin Research Station, where we’ll delve into the inspiring conservation efforts dedicated to protecting the Galapagos giant tortoises. At the breeding center, we’ll marvel at adorable baby tortoises and discover the fascinating journey of these ancient creatures from hatchlings to majestic icons of the islands. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy—wander through the town, shop for souvenirs, or simply take in the island’s charm. Dinner will be on your own, offering a perfect opportunity to try local flavors and reflect on the day’s unforgettable experiences.
Meals : Breakfast
As our incredible journey through the Galápagos comes to a close, we bid farewell to its breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife. Transfer to the hotel for our flight back to Quito. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. Whether you choose to explore the vibrant city streets, savor Ecuadorian cuisine, or simply relax and reflect on your adventure, this day offers a perfect balance of relaxation and personal exploration.
Meals : Breakfast
Today, we will travel to Bellavista, a worldwide known lodge, recognized as a bird watching spot Located in the Choco Cloud forest of Ecuador, declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It is surrounded by a large number of trails that you will explore. During these excursions, you will observe several species of hummingbirds. You will also have the opportunity to learn how the worldwide known Ecuadorian cacao is transformed into delicious chocolate. At the end of the day, you will return to the lodge for dinner and can stay in the restaurant to see if you can observe one of the latest carnivore mammals to be discovered, the olinguito.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, you will explore the unexplored paths in the forest near the lodge or you can enjoy from the lodge facilities and relax. Afternoon return to Quito.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch
Quito, known as the Americas’ “City of Lights”, possesses a millennium of pre-Colombian history and an impressive Hispanic Colonial legacy. The old town of Quito was declared the first UNESCO cultural world heritage site.This morning, meet our guide for a half day Quito’s city tour. Visit Independence Square (Plaza Grande), San Francisco Church and Convent as well as remarkable churches such as Basilica, La Compañía de Jesús from both the 16th and 17th centuries. Stop at the top of El Panecillo hill, where we can get a spectacular view and find the Statue of the Virgin overlooking and protecting the city. Late check out from the hotel, and private transfer to the airport for our international flight back home.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch
Early morning departure from Quito. Afternoon arrival in our home cities.
- 1 tour-bus experience for the entire tour
- Small group experience for personalized adventure
- Roundtrip transfers for those on our group air
- Experienced tour manager
- 4-Days/3-Nights on board of the Monserrat Galapagos Cruise - Charter + 1 Night on the Mainland
- 7-night accommodations in first class hotels + 1 late check-out
- Meals on cruise (beverages not included)
- All activities and excursions in Galapagos: Snorkeling equipment/wetsuits/Kayaks/Standup paddle boards
- English Speaking guides & Galapagos naturalist guides
- Sightseeing as outlined on the itinerary
- Meals as noted in the itinerary - daily breakfast
- Travel documents & access to a digital travel App
- Tips for guides and drivers for land portion of the tour
- International round trip flights to Quito (Group Air with Delta Airlines from Salt Lake City $ 1,346.00 pp)*
- *Must have at least 10 people to be able to offer Group Air
- Domestic flights to Galapagos: $ 600.00 pp
- Airport transfers for those not arriving/departing with main group
- Galapagos Islands National Park Fee: $200.00
- Transit Card fee: $ 20.00 pp
- Meals not included on tour
- Additional nights or optional sightseeing tours
- Beverages & Tips on cruise
- Items of a personal nature (room service, phone calls, internet, etc.)
- Medical Coverage and Travel Insurance
About Carol Alegre
Since 1996, I’ve embarked on an incredible journey through the world of travel. As a seasoned group tour manager, I’ve had the privilege of exploring approximately 90 captivating countries, each with its own unique charm.
People often ask me, “What is your all-time favorite place to visit?” My answer is simple – I don’t have one. I genuinely believe that beauty and intrigue can be found in every corner of the world. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene landscapes of Patagonia, I’ve discovered the magic that resides everywhere I go.
Beyond managing tours, I’m also a passionate photographer. My lens captures the breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and cherished moments that make our world extraordinary. Through my photography, I aim to share the wonder and inspiration I find in every destination.
Working with groups, enables me to help others experience the beauty and rich cultures of the world. Exploring the world together, one remarkable place at a time.
Pricing Information
Optional Pricing:
- Land Tour + Galapagos Cruise – Upper Deck with Large window (1 DBL bed) 1 Cabin:
$ 5,224.00 pp– SOLD OUT - Land Tour + Galapagos Cruise – Upper Deck with Large window (2 Twin beds) 4 Cabins: $ 5,224.00 pp (1 Left)
- Land tour + Galapagos Cruise – Lower Deck with porthole (1 DBL Bed) 1 Cabin: $ 4,928.00 pp (1 Left)
- Land tour + Galapagos Cruise – Lower Deck with porthole (2 Twin Beds) 2 Cabins: $ 4,928.00 pp (1 left)
- Optional cruise pre-paid gratuities $ 190.00 per person
Payment information:
- Non-Refundable deposit due at time of booking $1,000.00 p/p
- Final payment due June 10, 2025
Please see our cancellation policy:
If a participant needs to cancel their reservation, written notice must be provided. Cancellations within seven calendar days of booking (if not past the final payment date) will receive a full refund, excluding airfares, which follow the airline’s policy. Cancellations after the seven-day grace period incur a 50% penalty on the deposit until the final payment date, and cancellations after the final payment date are non-refundable, including for unused portions of the tour.
Most tour and cruise packages are sold as “Land Only”. This allows you the freedom to purchase tickets on your preferred airline and from your home city. We may offer group flights depending on the tour.
Yes! Once the frequent flyer reservations have been confirmed and ticketed by the airline, please provide a copy of the itinerary to us to ensure that proper transfer arrangements are made. We regret that we cannot assist with making frequent flyer reservations.
Yes! If you want to save some money, this is the ideal option. All reservations paid for by check or cash will receive a discount. The amount varies by tour and will be listed on the web-site.
Yes! If you are a Deseret Book Platinum Club member an additional discount may be available. There may be Expo discounts or other promotional discounts offered from time to time. However, only one discount per person will apply with the exception of the cash discount. Please call for details.
Because unforeseen circumstances may arise, we strongly recommend that you purchase travel insurance. This insurance will cover you in case you need to cancel a tour after final payment has been made. Certain restrictions apply.
Some tours do include gratuities for the local guides and bus drivers and others do not. Please refer to the “What is Included” section for your specific trip to find out.
Please note that many of these tours require that participants be in good physical and mental health. You must be capable, without assistance, of walking a minimum of one mile over uneven terrain and of climbing stairs that may not have handrails. Participants should have sufficient stamina to keep pace with an active group of travelers on long days of touring. Anyone with disabilities should have a travel companion who is willing and capable of assisting. Please let us know if you fall into this category.
In order for the enjoyment of all tour participants, we generally request that children be a minimum of 8 years old to participate on the tour. Parents should be advised that they may be the only youth on the tour. Some tours may be designed with family travel in mind and will be advertised as such. Please contact us if you have any questions.
All U.S. citizens are required to have a current passport valid for six months beyond the return date if the trip is international. In some cases a visa may also be required. For tours wholly within the United States a valid Drivers License is acceptable documentation.
Please remember that your first and last name on your ticket must match your passport or drivers license. If you are not a U.S. citizen, please call our office for assistance.
The final payment for an international tour is due 90 days prior to departure and for domestic tours it is due 60 days prior to departure. Full payment is required for new reservations received within the final payment period.
Per person cancellation fees are based on the date we receive notice from you.
For tours in the United States:
- Cancellations within 7 days of booking (if not within final payment date): full deposit refunded.
- Cancellations after the grace period ends to 91 days prior to departure: $125 will be refunded (50% of tour deposit)
- Cancellations from 90 to 61 days prior to departure: no refund of deposit
- Full payment due: 60 days prior to departure.
- Cancellations made 59 days or less prior to departure: no refund.
- Cancellations made on the day of departure: no refund
- Cancellation by Morris Murdock Escorted Tours: full refund.
- No refund for unused portions of the tour, including but not limited to, missed meals, hotel nights, and sightseeing.
For all other tours including international tours and cruises:
- Cancellations within 7 days of booking (if not within final payment date): full deposit refunded.
- Cancellations after the grace period ends to 91 days prior to departure: $250 refund (50% of tour deposit)
- Full payment due: 90 days prior to departure.
- Cancellations made 89 days or less prior to departure: no refund
- Cancellations made on the day of departure: no refund
- Cancellation by Morris Murdock Escorted Tours: full refund.
- No refund for unused portions of the tour, including but not limited to, missed meals, hotel nights, and sightseeing.
Will I receive a refund?
The refund amount, if any, will be paid according to the cancellation schedule listed above. We highly recommend travel insurance.
Since each tour is different, please refer to the individual tour recommendations on the web-site. Generally speaking, you will want to pack comfortable walking shoes, slacks and shirts that can be easily layered should there be a change in temperature. Be sure pack an extra change of clothing, camera and prescription medicines in your carry on bag.
Carry-on: Most airlines permit each passenger to take one carry-on bag, total dimensions (22″+ 14″+ 9″) of which must not exceed 45 inches and which cannot weigh more than 22 lbs., and one additional personal carry-on item, such as a purse or briefcase/laptop case; all carry-on items must fit under the seat in front of you or in the overhead compartment.
Checked: Please check with your airline to confirm the current luggage limitations and any applicable fees. Most carriers charge a fee for any checked bags, with a discount if this is done ahead of time online.
Overweight: Please note that many airlines charge significant fees for overweight or oversized luggage. Be sure that all baggage and personal belongings are properly insured. Items such as medications, jewelry, or other valuables, breakable or perishable items, and important documents should be hand-carried. Responsibility will not be assumed by the airline for loss of or damage to these items.
Due to recent security issues on flights coming into the United States, the Transportation Security Administration has updated its aviation security measures. For an up-to-date list of items banned from carry-on luggage and items you can carry on, please visit: www.tsa.gov.
**Please see our complete Terms and Conditions for more information
