DARWIN'S ENCHANTED ISLES Exclusive Escape to the Galápagos

Best-known as the islands of inspiration for Darwin’s masterpiece, 'The Origin of Species', this remote archipelago features stark volcanic formations, cactus-deserts, lush green highlands and pristine beaches. During this week-long adventure, you’ll stay on the three most geographically diverse islands – San Cristobal, Santa Cruz and Isabela – while your private boat will take your party out to the best natural spots in the archipelago. This tailor-made, exclusively-to-Truly experience, ensures that no highlight of the Galápagos Islands is missed, providing exposure to a whole range and diversity of geography and wildlife around the entirety of the archipelago. For the first time, the Charles Darwin Research Station will open its doors for unique behind-the-scenes access. Your guide will show you areas unavailable to other members of the public, including a private viewing of the natural history collections and specimens. The tour also includes a presentation on the history of the islands, given by one of the Charles Darwin Foundation’s most senior scientists. Most luxury tourism on the Galápagos Islands is by cruise or boat, but you will also have a chance to stay ashore, meeting and interacting with the local communities and gaining a more personal and authentic view of the Islands. You'll enjoy one night's stay in Quito at the exclusive Casa Gangotena; the most luxurious and famous hotel in Quito. Over seven days on your private boat you will be guided on a number of expeditions. While taking in the beauty of the Islands, you will track Darwin’s famous finches, swim with Galápagos penguins and journey through the highlands, identifying a number of species unique to the Galápagos along the way. Nearing the end of your adventure, your boat will transport you back in time to the prehistoric Bartolomé Island. Here you will hike to the summit of a small volcano, passing a variety of parasitic cones. This is followed by snorkelling with sharks, rays and variety of tropical fish in this undisturbed paradise, before toasting the sunset with a complimentary bottle of champagne. This once in a lifetime experience is an epic crossroads of exploration, science, and adventure.