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Ecuador & Galapagos Island Vacation Testimonials - Southern Explorations

Galapagos Island Cruise & Ecuador Tour Testimonials

“We had a great trip - very impressed with Southern Explorations. Jorge, your representative in Quito was super. He was always on time, friendly and informative as well as a great ambassador for his country. All the connections were on time and well planned- would consider another trip with Southern Explorations.” - Roger & Priscilla Beaver (Indiana)
Millenium & Sacha Lodge

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“We were impressed with the initial specific and prompt information given us. Our whole trip reflected this professional, attentive response. I think we saw the best that the Galapagos has to offer whether it be the geography, the land wildlife or the sea life. Our guide, Alfredo, showed deep knowledge of all these things and helped us appreciate these varied, often strange and mostly beautiful islands.” - Carol Saunders (Colorado)
Galapagos Multi Sport Adventure

“We just came back from our trip on the Millenium, and it was fabulous!! We all had a wonderful time, from 5 yr old Ruby to my 75 yr old husband. It was every bit as good as you said it would be. We enjoyed the trip immensely, and will recommend it highly to all of our friends - particularly our daughter and family who couldn't make it. Thank you for the superb itinerary and planning - we couldn't have asked for a better time.” - Susan O'Neill (Tennessee)
Galapagos Islands onboard the Millenium

“One of the best, if not the very best, holidays I have ever had. I will definitely choose Southern Explorations for my future trips to South America.” - Yelena Belozyorova (London)
Galapagos Hiking Adventure

“Best trip so far and I have been around the world. Javier, Captian, Deseriee, Carlos, Mario, the chef and Orlando made for the best trip ever. I cried when I got off the boat. Jorge was a great guide in Ecuador and one that was perfect for us, not pushy, did anything we wanted. We felt like all were our friends after the trip and really would love to continue to be in touch with them all, as they were super people.” - Kathy Harvey (Massachusetts)
Galapagos Cruise aboard Mary Anne

“This trip went beyond my expectation. The guides were knowledgeable, the itinerary was a great pace and we always had something new to see or do. The food was good and people on the mainland and on each island were very gracious. I would recommend this trip to any adventure-seeking, fit and inquisitive nature lover.” - Jeannette Scalise (Chicago)
Galapagos Multi Sport Adventure

“We just returned from the Galapagos Multi-Sport Adventure, 12/26-1/3, which was all and more than we expected. First, Jorge was an excellent guide for our evening tour of the city. He expounded and enlightened us with all the historical details of the city and country. But our time in the Galapagos will always be remembered, mostly due to Juan Fernando Duran, our tour guide. He was a wealth of facts and environmental knowledge. He was enthusiastic and excited the entire time about everything we were doing. Juan showed us each and every bird, plant, fish and animal we could possibly want to see. He could answer every question and pulled out his guide books to show us photos and maps. He was patient, interesting and funny. He seemed to really enjoy the whole adventure as if he were seeing it for the first time too. He worked non-stop, day and night, and was very flexible about the schedules and unforeseen problems than came along. Juan was a great choice for our tour guide. Thank you very much for arranging all the details of our trip. If we ever return for another adventure to South America, we will look into Southern Explorations again.” - Forrest and Leslie Williams (California)
Galapagos Multi Sport Adventure

“The overall holiday was excellent. The Southern Explorations element was fantastic and the Eclipse could not be faulted, except I ate far too much!” - Natasha Rowlands (UK)
Galapagos cruise onboard the Eclipse

“We had a diverse group of varied ages and interests, and the trip really had something for everyone. It was extremely well organized and run, and we really felt we saw a side of the Galapagos that not many people get to see.” - Tia Maggini (Los Angeles)
Galapagos Multi Sport Adventure

“I can’t say enough great things about my trip. I have certainly praised Southern Explorations to my friends, family and co-workers. What a wonderful experience. It was fun, exciting, relaxing, and informative and I can’t say that I had any bad experiences. I am ready to go on another trip. If anything it wasn’t long enough. I could stay their forever!!! Marisa was wonderful and did such a great job on the planning and making sure everything was great for our trip before, during and after.” - Teresa Leamy (Vermont)
Galapagos Multi Sport Adventure

“The Diamante is a gorgeous ship; well cared for and in good repair. The cabins were wonderful and roomy for a boat this size with great public spaces to visit with other passengers, dine and enjoy the scenery. I am entirely enchanted by this ship - especially under full sail, she is breathtaking! The Diamante is beautiful! Her crew on this trip was terrific. I miss William Benitez' cheerful smile, personal warmth, and special attention still! Daniel Penapiel is a great sailor and has sharper eyes than a Galapagos hawk - what an asset to a sight-seeing trip! Holger Guillen is very hard-working, concientious and friendly. Captain Eduardo Gueriero was friendly and went out of his way to help his passengers enjoy their trip. He gave us ample opportunity to view whales when they were spotted, and keeps his ship in great shape. This crew spoiled us completely every day. Jorge was wonderful. He knows Quito well, offered us very good advice, recommended wonderful restaurants and speaks very good English. Every detail was appreciated. THANKS SO MUCH.” - Nancy Jacobson
aboard the Diamante

“Excellent job! Everything was great! The naturalists were superb! I have over 700 pictures – need to do some editing.” - Stanley Van Peursem
aboard the Letty Galapagos Cruise

“Our trip to the Galapagos was a wonderful experience. Southern Explorations was very attentive to the planning of the trip and made sure that everything would fall into place. Their handling of the "details" was outstanding. Nothing fell through the cracks. If you are planning to go to South America, look no further then Southern Explorations.” - John Bauernfeind (Phoenix)
aboard the Eric/Letty/Flamingo

“I was a little apprehensive at first about going through the internet for this type of travel service but the experience was more than satisfactory. Service was excellent . Requests and questions were always answered promptly and courteously. I appreciated the personal recommendations and information from people that had first hand experience with traveling to the Galapagos. I also appreciated having a US phone # to call to ask questions in person and not have to rely on internet! I still like talking to people personally! Thanks for putting it all together for me, especially in such a short time frame!” - Jo Erickson
Galapagos Cruise aboard Legend

“Fabricio was just great. We could not have asked for a better guide. Jorge and Christian were also very good at touring…” - Terry Prether (Washington)
Galapagos Multi Sport

“The best guided tour I've ever taken. Our guide was well-educated and delightful. The restaurants served local dishes with fresh ingredients that North Americans could appreciate. We had a great time.” - Kris Stred (Washington)
Galapagos Multi Sport

“We had a wonderful time on this trip! Sacha Lodge was an excellent extension to the trip! The guides there were excellent and the food was amazing. I’m very impressed with the company!” - Kathy Tyndall
Galapagos & Machu Picchu

“Southern out did them selves. It was non-stop. So much to see and do. Loved every minute and was extremely sad to leave the Islands. I already want to go back.” - Denise Cerelli (California)
Galapagos Multi-Sport

“The staff was super, providing timely and accurate info from the gitgo. My thanks to all, especially Marisa.” - Frank Stinus (Maryland)
aboard Explorer II

“The Galapagos experience was a must on the to-do list in life. The best way I can explain it is like being at a zoo with no bars. You really immerse yourself in a unique ecosystem like no other and get to within inches of animals and creatures you only see in magazines. The islands and terrain are so diverse its almost like going to 2 or 3 different vacations at the same time. And to boot the locals are friendly and welcoming and want you to enjoy the Galapagos as much as they do.” - Clint Azotea (Georgia)
Galapagos Multi-Sport vacation

“Having found Southern Explorations (by chance) on the Internet, we were very pleased with their experience and attention to detail booking this kind of a trip - the Galapagos cruise, the transfers, the excursions out of Quito or Guayaquil - much more than we could have hoped for from a local travel agent. Would definitely recommend SE to a friend planning to go to Ecuador/Peru, etc. Thank you.” - Bill Sikov (Rhode Island)
aboard Coral I/II cruising the Galapagos Islands

“We want to thank you for a fabulous trip. We returned yesterday, having spent 3 weeks in Equador and one day in Lima. Everything was fantastic. The places we stayed we phenomenal, the sites were incredible and the people were so nice. We loved Equador, to the point we’d like to move there eventually.” - Mark Gossin (Ontario)
aboard Alta

“Dear Jonathan,
It was extremely nice of you to find time from your inspection tour and look us up in Quito. Needless to say, we are extremely happy with the entire tour that Marisa of your esteemed company had arranged for us. Everyone that we came in contact with was service oriented, flexible, co-operative, anticipated our needs, and very courteous. The Galapagos Islands, Bellavista, Papallacta Hot Springs, Quito city tour, and Otavalo market are all spectacular. We would definitely use and recommend your company to anyone.” - Akshay Vidyarthi (Pennsylvania)
aboard Coral

“We thought all was organized exceptionally well. It was great to visit so many (9) islands and really get good insight into the Galapagos.” - Signe Von Verdo (La Mesa, CA)
aboard Diamante

“We loved the Galapagos and have already been recommending it to friends and family. All the people that we dealt with from the Quito office were prompt, friendly, and helpful. It was a great experience.” - Greg Eitzen (Spokane, WA)
aboard Erik/Letty/Flamingo

“Everyone we dealt with from Southern Explorations was wonderful - from the reservation folks ( Marisa and Eric) to our contacts in Ecuador (Carolina and Jorge). All were wonderful to us and I will recommend Southern Explorations to others. They display an attention to detail that is rare. Before, during, and after our trip to Ecuador they helped us ensure that all details were covered, questions were answered, and problems were solved. They made our trip to Ecuador easy and enjoyable. I would not hesitate to recommend Southern Explorations to someone looking for help to organize an unforgettable adventure.” - Kathleen Finn (Chicago)
aboard Coral II

“This is the first time I've travelled by myself and Southern Explorations had a great, well-rounded, organized trip starting from being picked up at the airport and continuing the entire journey. The guides are knowledgeable and fun. My co-travelers were diverse, fun, and interesting. I loved staying in the different towns, having slightly different food and culture in each location. All my expectations were met and then some! I even changed my itinerary in the middle of my trip and Southern Explorations really worked with me to create the perfect individualized vacation/journey/trip. Thank you!!!” - Jennifer Ron (Chicago)
Galapagos Hiking Adventure

“I just wanted to let you know that John and I had a phenomenal trip to the Galapagos and Quito. The Patio Andaluz hotel was gorgeous, a little gem in the middle of the Historic District.
The Sea Man II was gorgeous and the crew was so personable.
I've wanted to visit the Galapagos for more than 10 years and our Naturalist was Lobo who was extremely knowledgeable, personable, and made our trip worth the wait.” - John and Amy Rhodes (Virginia)
aboard Seaman II, First Class Cruise

“This vacation was awesome and worth every cent. Our guide, Alfredo, impressed me with his knowledge and enthusiasm to be outside and explore nature. He still gets excited spotting Flycatchers, etc, turning this trip into a once-in-a-life time experience. I enjoyed the various activities and was always surprised to get one highlight after another. I am now considering taking Spanish classes since I will return to South America - most likely with Southern Explorations (Ecuador - rain forest? Chile? Peru again - Inca Trail?). I think Southern Explorations is promoting very careful eco tourism on the Galapagos Islands and I certainly hope you will succeed; this is one of the last paradises on Earth!” - Sven Zuehlsdorff (Chicago)
Galapagos Multi-Sport tour

“All of our guides [on our Ecuador tours] were exceptional. Their English was good, they brought excitement and enthusiasm to their jobs and they were all very knowledgeable. We are hoping to go to Peru next year and I will definitely contact Southern Explorations for that trip.” - Heidi Otton (Connecticut)
aboard Eric / Letty / Flamingo with mainland Ecuador tour extensions

“We had a wonderful trip. Fabricio really made sure that everything was carried out without a hitch. We greatly appreciate all that he did and shared with us. We have some wonderful memories. Thank you Southern Explorations for making our trip possible.” - Cunningham Family (Washington)
Galapagos Multi-Sport

“Fabricio is a great guide. He really keeps it fun yet he is on top of all arrangements. We were very lucky to have a private trip with him. At the Napo Wildlife Center, the guides were also great, very knowledgeable and personable. They helped us out a lot by setting up a personal itinerary for my wife and me since we wanted to hike more than the rest of the group. On both tours, we got individualized attention. We wanted to hike more than the normal program and in both locations we were accommodated. We really appreciate the extra hiking that was planned; we got to complete a 15 mile day hike through the rainforest that I will not soon forget.” - Dan and Mary Greenblatt (Moran, Wyoming)
Galapagos Multi-Sport

“I can't imagine trying to arrange all of the transfers and transportation. It's definitely worth going on a pre-arranged trip. I'd have no idea where to begin arranging all of the details. The whole trip flowed quite well.” - Julie Johnson (Naples, Florida)
Galapagos Multi-Sport

Guides:
Miguel was the BEST!!!! He was so organized and handled everything for us. He was well informed about everything and we all learned so much from him. Overall, he was an excellent guide. Thanks Miguel! Accommodations:
The accommodations were actually better than I expected. Everything was so nice and the service was great. Excursions:
All the tours were well organized. There was always a plan B if we couldn’t meet our original plan (and plan B was always as good as or better than plan AJ). Everything was great! Overall Impression:
The trip exceeded my expectations. I have already told everyone about southern explorations, and I think they’re already looking into taking a trip to the Galapagos. I will absolutely travel again with southern explorations! - Michelle Nowroozi

“Everything was excellent. We were both thoroughly happy with our trip and our tour guide. We learned a lot about the culture as well as were busy doing fun activities. We will recommend Southern Explorations and our guide to others. Thank you.” - Sheila and Reena Krishnan (Missouri)
Explore Ecuador

"Thanks for helping us put together the perfect trip! I will be recommending your services and tours to even my most particular friends! Just received this shot from my travel companion - I am a beach glass and shell collector and of course, would not remove from the Galapagos so we photographed my finds instead!" - Sandie Davis

Guides:
Diego was so knowledgeable on every aspect, birds, plants and reptiles was funny and was helpful in every way. Boat Crew:
The crew was very good. The little things the cook provided when we came back from some of the excursions were great. Such as fried bananas, cheese balls with honey and hot chocolate. They even made a birthday cake for a boy who turned 14. Some of the other passengers on the boat were impressed by all of the information you supplied and my overall package; they said they will check with you on their next trip. - Kreitner Family (Swansea, Illinois)
Aboard Angelito

"We had a wonderful experience in Quito and the Galapagos Islands. Southern Exploration’s people in the United States and in Quito did their utmost to make our travel experience memorable and comfortable." - Ben Freiberger

"We had a wonderful time. The experience was a once in a lifetime with our family. Miguel worked hard to take good care of us and he was extremely helpful and fun to be with. It would be difficult to spell out the highlights. Each day had so many wonders and was packed so full of things to do. We loved the snorkeling and the sea lions but the volcano was incredible, the beaches beautiful and the views were amazing." - Ellen Mering

"Our land-based trip to the Galapagos Islands with Southern Explorations was absolutely amazing. The activities were fun and challenging. We were blown away by the number and variety of animals that we saw during our adventure. Our guide, Alfredo, went out of his way to make sure that we were enjoying ourselves and that we were doing and seeing only the things that we really were interested in experiencing. Along the way, we saw a variety of landscapes and we received quite an education on the islands, the people living there, the wildlife and the importance of conservation. This was definitely the trip of a lifetime." - Joel McGee & Yolanda Herrera
Galapagos Multi-Sport

"Trip was great, thanks, but too short. You all did a great job. Anxious to book with you again." - Marilyn and Don Maher
onboard the Evolution "We had a wonderful trip. During the planning stage, Jonathan was easy to deal with and extremely helpful. During the trip itself, Felipe was a treasure. And the call afterwards from Justin was icing on the cake. We feel like we're part of the Southern Explorations family now. Add to that the wonder that is the Galapagos, perfect weather and pleasant trip-mates, and the whole thing was beautifully memorable. Thank you so much for a trip of a lifetime." - Gwen Ruta and Paul Buchanan-Barrow
Galapagos Kayaking Adventure

"I was a little concerned because I was traveling with my 8-year-old son. The guides and everyone on the trip were wonderful to him. He was able to keep with the group on most of the activities and when he couldn't our guide Alfredo gave him some additional help. This caused him to feel like an equal in the group and it was great for his self confidence. I would definitely use Southern Explorations again. I would recommend them to anyone who plans on doing this type of trip." - Gary & Q. Love
Galapagos Multi Sport Adventure

Guides:
I love Alfredo and Valentine. Great guides and a ton of fun. Ground Operations:
Everyone was extremely helpful. Not sure i would have been able to figure it out without them! Overall Impression of the Trip:
Great trip, really fun, young group and excellent guides. I liked that we stayed at non-touristy places and really got into the culture. I am looking for my next trip! General Comments:
I have traveled with other firms before and I really enjoyed Southern Explorations. I will absolutely both recommend them to friends and travel with them again. In fact, maybe later in the Summer! - Maria Krinsky
Galapagos MultiSport

Food:
Most of the meals were very good-- the fruit displays were impressive. Island Visits:
The organization was EXCELLENT. The briefings each evening before dinner let us know what to expect the next day. We were a congenial and cooperative group, and we were ready on time to go on our excursions. I skipped deep water snorkeling the first time because the water seemed to be very rough. Otherwise, went on all the island visits. It was truly amazing how different the islands were from each other.

Additional Comments:
It was a wonderful experience being on a small boat and getting to know our fellow passengers. Each and every island we visited had its own unique features, and we were continually amazed by the wildlife and how different it was on each island. The guides and the panga drivers made our excursions fun and were conscious of safety issues. Overall, a trip of a lifetime! - Jean Smith
Eric/Letty/Flamingo

Meals:
As a vegetarian (who eats seafood), I was so pleased with the variety and taste of the healthy dishes. I loved having lots of fresh fruit and veggies at EVERY meal. I heard other passengers also delight to the fact that most dinners were "surf and turf". The chef and crew were very attentive, paid attention to what passengers liked most (and asked us!), and are proud of their work- as they should be. Chris proposed marriage to me on this trip and that evening, when the crew must have been told, they came out with a cake just for us with our names on it. The talented Pablo even sang a beautiful love song for us in Spanish. It was my most memorable evening. Thank you, Pablo, chef and crew! Island Visits:
Robert (Guide) is highly knowledgeable, passionate about his work, extremely funny/charismatic, and cares about guests' safety, fun and learning. I simply cannot imagine a better guide. He is also very observant and took the time to make some adjustments on my weight belt while diving (something most would overlook or simply shrug off), and he improved the quality of my dives for the rest of the trip.
Both Robert and Guillermo are talented photographers and surreptitiously took photos of guests from the moment we departed the plane stepping onto San Cristóbal to dives to land hikes and presented us with a great collection of posed and candid shots to remember our trip and fellow passengers and crew. Well done. The Boat:
Captain and guides faced some decisions regarding itinerary change because of the park and made great decisions based on their knowledge of the locations. It was perfect. Ground Operations:
SwissHotel offered the best service I've received in many years of traveling. I loved the touch of the rose on our pillows every night. Transfers were pretty seamless. - Kristin Hendry & Chris Pernicano
Lammer Law / Galapagos Islands Guides:
Had a wonderful time Harry was wonderful as was Peppi. They were wonderful ambassadors to Ecuador. The crew of the Letty were great, very courteous at all times. Harry and Peppi were very knowledgeable and a delight to be with. I gained a lot of knowledge about the Galapagos, truly a wonderful place! Accommodations Onboard the Boat
Loved the boat. It is set up very well. Being covered from the sun on the top deck was great. I only complaint is the air vent on top is very noisy. Other than that the Boat was perfect. Meals:
Soups were great. Fish meals were wonderful. Great hot chocolate. Island Visits:
FANTASTIC General Comments:
It was wonderful to meet Justin. I can see why Southern Explorations is doing so well. Thank you for celebrating my birthday and Julie 's birthday. That was very thoughtful. The company is too commended. The whole trip was very organized and getting 6 people organized isn't easy - Lynda Crawford
Boat - Eric / Galapagos Islands Guides:
Luis was Outstanding in every way!! Fabulous! Keep him! Island Visits:
Spectacular! Luis made decisions to alter plans as necessary, making excellent choices!!! Example: water was churned and hard to see through, so he changed to let us snorkel at Pinnacle Rock. That was stellar! General Comments:
Absolutely everything was spectacular! Perfect trip! Could not have imagined better! EVERYTHING was excellent. We've already been recommending it! - Natalie Lashmet & Luke Zastrow
Archipel II / Galapagos Islands

"We had a great time on our Galapagos Islands trip and I would highly recommend Southern Explorations. Jonathan spent a lot of time talking to us and listening to what we were looking for in a vacation. He found the perfect itinerary for us and helped with hotels and tour extensions as well. We would definitely recommend them." - Ashley and David Cook "The trip was truly a wonderful experience and we would travel with you again!
Thanks" - Shirley Asp "We were absolutely delighted with this trip. Everything went very well, and the itinerary was fabulous. Great guides and lovely boat. We want to return!! The animals were phenomenal, and our guides were extremely knowledgeable. I don't think there was a question that couldn't be answered. All the trip participants were friendly, and there for the same purpose-to see the wildlife. Thanks for everything." - Sandi and Alan Roberts Titusville, Florida "This was truly a fabulous experience and everything went so smoothly. Upon arrival we were transferred to the Eclipse - what a yacht! We had a great cabin with large windows with views of the islands, perfect sunsets and sunrises. We snorkeled with sea turtles, marine iguanas, penguins and even sharks. We thank you so much for your expertise in finding us the right boat for a great price, it made the difference." - The Sampson Family Boston, Massachusetts

"Just want to thank Jon ...it was the best vacation ever!" - Neet Shah "Jonathan, thank you so much for booking this trip for us. We had such a wonderful time. Ecuador was beautiful, we look forward to returning someday. The boat we stayed on was top notch. I can't even tell you how impressive the guides and the crew were. We would not hesitate to book another trip through Southern Explorations." - Kimberly and Ray Metz

"We very much enjoyed ourselves, and we appreciate all of the time and effort you put in to arranging our holiday. I'm not a big "wildlife" tourist...so I did not expect to enjoy this holiday as much as my wife did. In the end, though, I was very surprised at just how much I enjoyed my time. I think that's a credit to you and the people that you work with." - Jeffrey Vorreyer "We just got back from our trip and we wanted to thank you, the tour was excellent and exceeded all of our expectations. Juan was outstanding, enthusiastic, and knowledgeable and really helped us while hiking. We really enjoyed the cruise onboard the Legend. The room was great, with fantastic views of the islands, and the food was superb. We travel extensively and visiting Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands was the ideal trip. Thanks again for your expert advice and great support. We will be traveling again with you soon!" - Jerry Smith
Minneapolis, Minnesota

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1.877.784.5400
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TESTIMONIAL OF THE MONTH

“I just wanted to let you know that John and I had a phenomenal trip to the Galapagos and Quito. The Patio Andaluz hotel was gorgeous, a little gem in the middle of the Historic District.
The Sea Man II was gorgeous and the crew was so personable.
I've wanted to visit the Galapagos for more than 10 years and our Naturalist was Lobo who was extremely knowledgeable, personable, and made our trip worth the wait.” - John and Amy Rhodes (Virginia)
aboard Seaman II, First Class Cruise