VIP EXPERIENCES IN GUAYAQUIL
Ecuador
Overview
When visiting the Galapagos Islands, you have the choice of flying into Quito orGuayaquil. There are several airlines with international routes into both cities.While it is possible to arrive one night prior to the cruise, we recommend guests consider spending two nights prior and explore the area.
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Guayaquil is considered the gateway to Galapagos and the closest point from the mainland on a 90- minute non-stop flight to the islands. The airport is a 15-minute drive into downtown or Samborondon, an upscale suburb. At sea level, you will avoid the higher altitude of Quito.
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Quito is situation in an Andean valley at 9186 feet above sea level, making it the 2nd highest capital city in the world. The airport is a 50-minute drive into downtownQuito where most hotels are located. The flight to Galapagos will make a stop in Guayaquil.
GUAYAQUIL
Hotel del Parque & Hacienda La Danesa
Ecuador’s largest city and seaport has been revitalized and its crown jewel is the Malecon 2000, a two-mile pedestrian walkway along the Guayas River, Las Penas and Santa Ana Hill, the centuries old neighborhood where restored homes line narrow streets, and Parque Historico, recreating Guayaquil’s past through its history and culture.
HOTEL DEL PARQUE
The luxury boutique hotel features 44 elegant guest rooms and suites, with cozy beds, sitting areas, beautifully appointed marble bathrooms and sweeping windows with a view of the garden or historic building. It is the only hotel located in the upscale neighborhood of Samborondon and is a member of the Relais & Chateaux collection offine hotels and restaurants. Just steps from the hotel, you can visit Parque Historico (HistoricalPark). See the flora and fauna that once populated the area. A historiczone recreates architecture and traditions from the early 1900s celebrating indigenous cultures.
ACTIVITIES
Upon arrival at Jose Joaquin de Olmedo Airport in Guayaquil, you will be met at the airport by an English-speaking guide holding a sign board with your name on it. Look for him/her as you exit the customs area. Your guide will escort you to a private vehicle waiting to transfer you to Hotel del Parque, a Relais & Chateaux property, located just 20-minute drive from the airport.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast provided by Hotel del Parque in their lovely courtyard.Meet your guide in the lobby and depart to spend the day at “Hacienda La Danesa.” Founded in 1870, La Danesa is located near an old railway station in the Montubia coastal region. The hacienda and working dairy and cacao farm is owned and managed by the third generation Olsen family, who will introduce you to the hacienda’s history. There is a unique selection of activities for guests to enjoy including traills for horseback riding or bicycling, cow milking, and artisan chocolate making. After a 3-course lunch, there is time to relax or discover the lush property; Teca tree, organic garden, farm animals and cacao plantion. Return toGuayaquil late afternoon. Travel time is 1 hour and 20 minutes each way.
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Optional: A fine dining experience awaits at Casa Julian, just steps from the hotel, featuring delightful original creations using locally sourced ingredients
Enjoy breakfast provided by the hotel in their lovely courtyard. You’ll meet your guide in the hotel lobby and transfer by private vehicle to the airport. Check-infor the Avianca Flight AV1630 with our representative and arrive to the Galapagos before noon-time (flight times subject to change).
2022 RATES (per person double occupancy based on 2 guests)
$725.00 Deluxe Double | $750.00 Signature Room | $925.00 Junior Suite Deluxe rooms (398-484 square feet) with two Full size beds or King size bed, some with connecting doors and Signature rooms (549-645 square feet) including a second panoramic window. The Jr. Suite has 1227 square feet of living space and can be connected to a signature room.
Included/Excluded
- Hotel accommodation tax and service fees for two nights
- Free wireless internet
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Welcome complimentary afternoon tea
- Private transfers to and from the airport upon arrival and departure.
- Fully guided tour to Hacienda la Danesa with private transportation from Guayaquil with lunch included.
- Dinner at Casa Julian in Guayaquil.
- Gratuities to porters.
- Drivers and host.
Add a Stay in Guayaquil to Your Galapagos Cruise
Is your Galapagos luxury cruise booked yet? You can add on a stay in Guayaquil to your trip- just contact our team and let them know that you would like to extend your adventure! If you haven’t reserved your trip just yet, please look through our different itinerary options and let us know if you have questions.Â
