Prepare to be entranced by Ecuador

The Galápagos Archipelago, Darwin’s living laboratory, is home to an abundance of wildlife. Isolated from the mainland for millions of years, it is that rare wilderness where animals have no instinctive fear of humans. National Geographic Expeditions is offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for two people to explore these incredible islands on the

National Geographic Endeavour II, followed by three nights staying in the wonderful Mashpi Lodge deep in the cloud forests of Ecuadorian Chocó.

THE PRIZE

Upon touch-down on the Galápagos Islands you’ll be whisked straight off to the expedition ship, your home for the next six nights and a base from which you’ll explore the incredible islands by foot, kayak and even glass-bottomed boat. The voyage will take you to a selection of the following islands. Throughout, you’ll be accompanied by a naturalist and a National Geographic-Lindblad certified photo instructor who will pass on their extensive knowledge of the islands’ flora and fauna and give guidance on how to best capture the breathtaking scenery.

Isla Bartolomé is known for its volcanic cone, stunning views of Pinnacle rock and clear waters where you can dive with the Galápagos penguins, the only penguins found on the equator. On Isla Santiago, you’ll wander past underwater caverns and tide pools in search of Galápagos fur seals, marine iguanas, sea lions and Sally Lightfoot crabs.

Isla Santa Cruz is home to the Charles Darwin Research Station. Here you’ll hear about the breeding programme for the endangered giant tortoise, which is supported by the Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic Fund, before heading into the highlands to see them in the wild. On Isla Isabela you can hike against a backdrop of shield volcanoes, and snorkel in the cool waters that often attract whales and dolphins.

On Isla Floreana you’ll snorkel with sea lions and turtles and visit a lagoon that is home to flamingos, while on Isla Fernandina you can hike over hardened lava flows. On Isla Española you’ll find the famous blue-footed boobies, unique lava lizards and sea lions which relax on the white sands.

After exploring the wilds of the Galápagos you’ll head inland to the magnificent cloud forests of Ecuadorian Chocó, one of the planet’s biodiversity hotspots, for a stay at the luxurious Mashpi Lodge, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World. Mashpi is a true wilderness

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

The prize is valid for two people travelling together and sharing a category two cabin. Black-out dates apply. The package includes flights from the UK to Ecuador, internal travel, the Galápagos cruise and three nights at Mashpi Lodge. Cruises are subject to availability and travel must be booked by December 31 2018. See telegraph.co.uk/tt-travelprizes for full terms and conditions retreat and you’ll find yourself heading out on guided nature walks to spot monkeys and birds, pedalling your way through the forest canopy on a Sky bike and dipping into the natural pools of a nearby waterfall.

THE PROVIDER

National Geographic Expeditions (nationalgeographicexpeditions.co.uk) is a premium provider of travel experiences that embody the renowned National Geographic spirit of adventure, conservation and