Mr. Hoke's Galápagos Island Highlights

Explore Ecuador's beautiful capital on this guided tour of Quito's downtown. Visit sites dating back to Spanish colonization, and continue to Panecillo where you will find an impressive panoramic view of the city and the surrounding valleys. Jump from the southern to northern hemisphere in an instant at Mitad del Mundo - the Equator Monument that marks the equinoctial line.

Explore the beautiful Plaza de la Independencia, the Old Town's main square. In the 16th century the Spanish were afraid that the Incas might poison their water supply, so they set up their own protected well here. This plaza subsequently became the social center of town. Here we will visit Guayasamin's mural of Orellana discovering the Amazon on the wall of Palacia de Gobierno; the City Hall; the Archbishop's Palace and the Cathedral.

The Palacio de Carondelet, or Presidential Palace, serves as the workplace of Ecuadorian presidents, and was opened to the public in 2007. Since then, the palace has suffered from looting, but no one has ever been charged for the thefts.

Visit Iglesia San Francisco, the first church built in Quito, begun in 1535 on the site of an Inca Temple. Inside we will view the baroque altar which has three important sculptures: the Baptism of Jesus; a representation of Jesus de Gran Poder; and one of the most important sculptures in Ecuador, the original La Virgen de Quito.

Stand at the place where the northern and southern hemispheres meet, see the Equatorial Monument marking the spot.

Los Gemelos, or the Twin Craters, are located opposite each other on both sides of the road leading from Puerto Ayora to Baltra. The name is only figurative; not real craters, these formations were created by the collapse of surface material in underground fissures and chambers. After a moderate hike, you'll be rewarded with a view that is breathtaking.

A historic site commemorating Isabela Island's history as a penal colony.

To the west of Puerto Villamil there are various salt and brackish lagoons which house an impressive variety of coastal and sea birds. Here, visitors can also find the largest concentration of flamingos in Galápagos.

Enjoy an excursion to Sierra Negra Volcano; one of the most active volcanoes in the Galapagos, with the last eruption in 2005. Located 13 miles from Puerto Villamil it boasts the second largest volcanic caldera in the world, 6 miles in diameter and 300 feet deep.

A visit to La Mariscal market is a must for anyone looking for a souvenir from your trip or a present to bring home. Packed with crafts and specialties from all around the country, enjoy the dazzling displays of blankets, paintings, jewelry, bags, flutes, chocolate and more.

In most cases, your flight home is overnight. You will return home on Day 9.