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INCA International Nature and Cultural Adventures

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Emeryville, CA
INCA International Nature and Cultural Adventures

Immersive small group and private luxury experiences in awe-inspiring destinations. Founded in 1976. A Bit of History
INCA (formerly Inca Floats, Inc.)
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We have long been one of the leading companies offering small, intimate adventures because we hold ourselves (and our trips) to especially high standards of quality and safety. Wherever we travel we are downright fussy about our guides, itineraries, accommodations and transportation in order to give you the best possible experience. began in the 1970's as a family adventure when Bill Roberson, a s

cientist and professor, and his two daughters, Kim and Marika, traveled to Peru and the Galápagos Islands. They had such an adventurous, silly and educational time that they couldn't wait to share it with their friends. And so a company was born. In 1996 Inca Floats became INCA, International Nature & Cultural Adventures, to reflect our new adventures outside of South America. INCA is now more than the Roberson family supplying, guiding, and cooking as on our early treks. We have grown at home and abroad with dedicated, talented staff here in Emeryville and in each of our destinations. Along the way we have continued our devotion to making each trip enriching—as hassle-free and as comfortable as possible for each of our travelers—without sacrificing any of the adventure while doing it. Our Exclusive Associates
Providing trouble-free, enjoyable adventures requires constant attention to details where it counts—at the trip location. So we carefully select some of the most important people on your trip—our overseas partners, who work exclusively for INCA travelers. Our thoughtful and caring friends in Ecuador, Peru, Galápagos, and Turkey do it all—from getting roses for your sweetheart to tracking down missing luggage to finding a doctor. They're on call, 24 hours a day, just to take care of you. Adventure with a Conscience
We are proud to be one of the first adventure travel companies whose corporate mission statement expresses principles of ecotourism. We are committed to increasing the awareness of human responsibility toward the environment; to working with conservation organizations to protect the animals, plants and artifacts of the special places we visit; and to supporting the local economies by employing local associates who share our vision. As an INCA traveler you participate in sustainable pleasure in the wonders of our world.

09/06/2024

Humpback Whale Watching in the Galapagos!

This August, some of our lucky INCA guests had the unforgettable experience of spotting Humpback Whales breaching in the Galapagos Islands. Capturing the moment was none other than Pati Stucki, one of our incredible Galapagos Naturalists!

Humpback whales frequent the Galapagos Islands during their tropical migration and are most often spotted in the dry season between June and December.

What was your most exciting wildlife encounter when visiting the Galapagos? Or, what would you most like to see?

08/06/2024

On our visits to Turkey, we’ve learned that how you travel matters just as much as where you go.

To fully experience the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, traverse the plains of Antalya, explore the ruins along the Turquoise coast, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Istanbul, meticulous planning and diverse modes of travel are essential. The heart of Turkey offers rose-colored landscapes and hot air balloon rides, the Turquoise coast features ancient ruins accessible only from secluded inlets and bays, and the streets of Istanbul are the most immersive when explored on foot. This is why we combine our land tour with a Gulet cruise, providing the best access to every remarkable site we visit.

This spring, immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Turkey. Our special spring departure is waiting for you in May 2025.

Ask us more about our Turkey Itinerary in the comments or visit our Turkey page on our website!

08/01/2024

What does it mean to have a designated guide when visiting Antarctica?

For those fortunate enough to visit the southernmost continent, the expedition is often a once-in-a-lifetime experience. While medium-sized luxury expedition ships always provide frequent shore visits, naturalist presentations, and numerous learning opportunities, having a designated expert exclusively for a group of up to 10 guests is an exceptional opportunity.

This January 2025, take advantage of the unparalleled expertise of our esteemed guide Richard Polatty. One of the top naturalists in both the Galapagos Islands and Antarctica, Richard has completed over 60 Antarctic expeditions and has participated in research for several important ecological projects in the region. His extensive knowledge of the Antarctic ecosystem is matched only by his passion for sharing it with others.

Join this special INCA group on the ultimate Southern Ocean expedition aboard the luxury expedition ship Le Lyrial with Richard as your private Antarctic leader. Have more of your questions answered and gain a deeper understanding of the environment and ecology of this extraordinary destination.

Experience Antarctica, the Falkland Islands, and South Georgia like a true explorer. Join our journey Across the Southern Ocean with Richard Polatty from January 5 to 23, 2025!

More information about pricing and trip inclusions can be found at https://www.inca1.com/across-the-southern-ocean-with-richard-polatty

07/30/2024

Meet Darwin-expert and exceptional Galapagos guide, Greg Estes!

With over 40 years of studying the Galapagos Islands, Greg's deep knowledge of biology has contributed to numerous ecological projects aiding endangered species. Alongside his wife, Thalia Grant, he has retraced Darwin’s footsteps, co-authoring the book “Darwin in Galapagos: Footsteps to a New World”, a vital resource for understanding the islands' wildlife and geology.

Share your memories of a trip with Greg in the comments, or what you want to learn about most on an adventure to the Galapagos!

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06/19/2024

It's time to talk about Albatross again!

Albatrosses are masters of long-distance flight, gliding for hours over the open ocean without flapping their wings. Sadly, many species are endangered due to harmful fishing practices and plastic pollution. First signed in 2001, the Agreement on the Conservation of Albatrosses and Petrels (ACAP) is working hard to protect these birds. We can help by reducing single-use plastics, disposing of waste properly, and helping to spread awareness, especially today on the 4th annual Albatross Awareness Day!

On our upcoming adventure, "Across the Southern Oceans with Richard Polatty," see Black-browed Albatross nesting in the Falkland Islands, try to catch a glimpse of the elusive Grey-headed Albatrosses on South Georgia, and witness these magnificent birds in flight over the open ocean.

Explore the trip here: https://www.inca1.com/across-the-southern-ocean-with-richard-polatty.

06/03/2024

After a long day of exploring Antarctica, these sleepy creatures agree you need a good nap!

But we're learning they don’t all need as much rest as you or I do. Incredibly, a recent study (the first ever on the sleeping habits of marine mammals in the wild) revealed the elephant seal only sleeps two hours a day during the time of year they spend at sea, hunting and traveling from one place to another. This rivals the land elephant for the least amount of sleep needed for a mammal. Pretty wild for a creature that looks so ready to relax.

During the time of year the seals spend on land, they do take to napping more, sleeping up to ten hours a day. They lounge by the water’s edge and take a dip only when they feel.

What would you get done if you only had to sleep two hours a day?

This post features, in order, southern Sea Lion pup, Antarctic fur seal, Leopard Seal, and southern elephant seals!
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03/16/2024

Raise your hand if you love birds ✋

The Falkland Islands are home to many bird species, ranging from the familiar (yet distinct), like Upland Geese, to ones classified in a species of their own, like the Striated Caracaras. These are just 7 of the incredible birds you can see on a visit to this southern archipelago.

🪶 Striated Caracara: A popular draw for birders, this monotypic bird of prey has a breeding range in the Falklands, Chile, and Tierra del Fuego. Known locally as the "Johnny Rook," they have quite a small breeding population and tend to nest on uninhabited islands.

🐧 Southern Rockhopper Penguin: The smallest of the Falkland Islands penguins, these popular yellow-plumed penguins arrive in the islands in October to begin their breeding season. After sharing the incubation period, the males brood the chicks while the females forage and provide food. They are currently listed by the IUCN red list as Vulnerable owing to rapid population declines.

🤍 Black Browed Albatross: The Falklands Islands are the most important site for this migratory bird, hosting 70% of the world's population. Traditionally known as "mollymawks," they reuse their nests yearly during their breeding season (Sep-Apr) and can live up to 50 years old.

🖤 Magellanic Cormorant (Rock S**g): Though fairly common along the rocky coasts of southern Argentina and Chile, this small cormorant is a sight to see. With their black and white patterning and their distinct red patch around the eyes, Rock S**gs can be found nesting on rocky cliffs or diving among the waves for food.

🦆 Falklands Steamer Duck: Known locally as the Logger Duck, these flightless birds are found only in the Falkland Islands. The males are one of the largest ducks in the world and can weigh over 7.5 lbs!

🪿 Upland Geese: The Upland Geese found in the Falklands are unique. Scientists have observed that it is diverging from its continental cousin, the Magellan goose. The males have white plumage barred with black, and the females are cinnamon brown.

🐧 Magellanic Penguin: These shy penguins have distinct black and white bands on their heads, making them easy to spot. They make burrows in soft soil or peat facing the sea for nesting, with an extra tunnel to diverge rainwater away from the eggs. They arrive in the islands in September and are gone by mid-April.

Come to the Falklands to see these exciting species and more!

03/14/2024

Bihter Kuranel, our most sought-after guide in Turkey, loves what INCA guests bring to every adventure.

With Bihter as your guide, travel to the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, explore ancient ruins along the Turquoise Coast, and delve into the history of vibrant Istanbul. Visit www.inca1.com/turkey to learn more about our carefully crafted May and September departures in 2024 and 2025.

03/09/2024

For International Women's Day, we celebrate some of the amazing women who make our trips happen! ✨

Marika Roberson, who worked on our first trekking adventures in the 1970s, now continues the legacy of INCA as Vice President.

Eliza Tenza, an explorer at heart, has been carefully crafting destination itineraries since the 90s and making each trip the best it can be.

Danielle Rice, our newest team member, makes our journeys seamless for every guest.

Claudia Molena, our liaison in Santa Cruz, is a stellar dive instructor and a fantastic mom.

Pati Stucki, a cacao farmer and naturalist guide, brings the Galapagos Islands to life on our adventures.

Bihter Kuranel is an expert in archaeology, art history, botany, and culinary culture and makes a visit to Turkey exceptional.

We hope you are celebrating the women in your life today and every day ✨

02/22/2024

Would you follow expert guide Richard Polatty on this beloved Antarctic adventure?

As the northern hemisphere is in the darkness of winter, take a trip to the sunniest part of Antarctica's year in January 2025.

The stunning climate of the middle of southern summer brings the animal world to life, where millions of penguins mingle by the sea and seals and sea lions waddle along the sandy shores.

Don't forget your camera; there are so many moments worth capturing!

Call us at +1 510-420-1550 to book your spot today or visit inca1.com/antarctica to explore our Antarctic adventures
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02/16/2024

Who are you bringing with you to Patagonia? 🏔️

In these incredible mountains, spend a perfect week of hiking in the wilderness, being awed by the intensity of the landscapes, and savoring an asado (the grilled meats the region is known for).

The mountain backdrop is a realm of activities – picnic by an alpine lake or go for a horseback ride through the grasslands.

02/15/2024

Happy Valentine's Day 💖

Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe is one of the places that first comes to mind when we think of a romantic getaway. From the beautiful landscapes and abundant wildlife to the intimate and luxurious lodges, it is the perfect place to connect with both the nature surrounding you and your favorite person.

Today we are wishing you and yours a wonderful day of celebrating the love in your life!

Tag the person you'd most want to take a trip here with

02/12/2024

Today, we're celebrating the birthday of the amazing Charles Darwin ✨

Nearly 200 years ago, his trip to the Galapagos Islands inspired the revelation we now know as the theory of evolution.

Our understanding of the world was forever changed when Darwin connected the dots of natural selection and adaptation; we are lucky to get to explore the same islands that inspired such an incredible discovery.

Share your favorite fact about the Galapagos Islands or evolution below!

02/07/2024

In the often underestimated Ecuadorean Highlands, the mountain air is crisp.

The landscapes are awe-inspiring. Small villages thrive on markets of flower shops, artisan crafts, and local art. Condors soar in the sky and spectacled bears roam the cloud forests.

These mountains are a place of community, nature, farming and care – and well worth the detour on any trip to Ecuador.

What is your favorite underrated travel destination?

01/24/2024

Back in INCA's early days, during the 1970s and 80s, the high mountains of the Andes filled our family with inspiration.

In the summers, founder, Bill Roberson, and daughters, Kim & Marika, took to the terrain on horseback in search of ruins, rivers, and geological wonders. The peaks and valleys inviting exploration, connection, and learning in new and unexpected ways.

Those first enchanting trips to Peru began what is now nearly 50 years of continued adventure.

01/18/2024

Hot air balloons over Cappadocia have become iconic, but how did that happen?

The unique geology and history of Cappadocia have long drawn the interest of world travelers, but it was not until 1989 that the first hot air balloon took to the sky, and even then it was only for promotional reasons.

Then, in 1997, Turkey held the First World Air Games, bringing nations from all over the world to Anatolia to compete for supremacy in the skies.

It was at that time that people realized what an incredible experience it was to float above Cappadocia in the morning air, looking out over the mesmerizing landscape.

The fad stuck and now more than 500,000 people take to the air over Cappadocia every year to feel the wonder of flying in a hot air balloon.

✨ tag a friend you want to sail over Cappadocia with ✨

01/11/2024

There is so much to see in Peru ⛰️ you might wonder what can Peru be for you.

With a custom INCA adventure, it can be anything you want it to be — a journey crafted in the mold of your daydreams.

Are you drawn towards the stunning vistas of the Andean Mountains?

Do you want to spend time in the misty air of the Amazon, surrounded by the sights and sounds of its many inhabitants?

Does the cultural center that is Lima call you to explore it museums, art and culinary offerings?

Are you inspired by the combination of Incan and Spanish Colonial architecture and history of Cuzco?

From the stunning coast, to the high Andes, to the Amazon jungle and everything in between, Peru is a stunning and inspiring destination.

Let us know where your mind goes, and we can turn your Peruvian aspirations into the adventure of a lifetime.

Follow us for more inspiration for your next custom journey!
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12/30/2023

Our amazing team member, Alan, just got back from Peru ⛰️

Here are just a few photos of his adventures, from Lima, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and more.

His smile says it all, Peru is an awesome place to travel!

12/27/2023

What was the first trip you ever took?

We've been looking through our archives, and it's been making us think about INCA's first adventures to the Galapagos in the 1980s.

Since our initial adventures, tourism has grown, accommodations have certainly gotten an upgrade, and most of the boats we sailed on have retired. As the human impact has increased, many conservation groups have grown their efforts to protect the islands, and we continue to support them and share in the joy of their successes.

Thanks to intentional care, marine iguanas still lounge on the grey rocks, giant Galapagos Tortoises continue to amble through the highlands shrouded in mist, and the sea lions are as playful as ever. And every visit to the Galapagos still leaves us with a sense of awe that time has not diminished.

Over nearly 50 years we have evolved along side this place. As one of the first operators in the Islands founded by a naturalist guide, our values have stayed the same, even gotten stronger, with a deep care for the health of the islands and all it's inhabitants at the core. We've always wanted our guests to leave with the same love and appreciation we have for the ecosystems and diversity present in the Islands and world at large.

As 2024 comes up on the horizon, we are excited to share more life-impacting experiences with you in the places we all love.

Images in order of appearance:
1. Marika Roberson, current INCA VP, Sailing in the Islands, 1980
2. Guests returning to the sailboat, 1983
3. Signs at Post Office Bay on Floreana Island, 1976
4. Founder Bill Roberson on the beach, 1980
5. Marine Iguana, 1980
6. Mist in the Santa Cruz highlands, 1980
7. Group hiking on Daphne Major (now closed to visitors), 1983
8. The Beagle sailboat, 1989
9. Hiking in the Santa Cruz Highlands, 1980
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12/26/2023

What do you look forward to most when traveling?

12/22/2023

There are a lot of reasons to spend the summer in Alaska 🎣

One of the highlights for us is the fishing! There is nothing like the excitement of reeling in a salmon to have it grilled fresh for you as you float through pristine wilderness.

We've seen it light up the faces of our guests indiscriminately, and the feeling is shared across generations, from kids holding a reel for the first time to their parents or grandparents showing them how (or learning themselves!) and everyone in between.

Equally as exciting as the catch, dinner in Alaska is the reward. It promises to be the best seafood of your life, served al-fresco as eagles soar overhead. A chilled glass of white wine goes with the fruit of the ocean as the sun sends out its warm evening rays. Your heart rate will slow back to normal and gaze out over the waters that provided you with an amazing harvest.

Our trips to Alaska are a reel catch! 🐟

Book a cruise with INCA to discover how incredible late afternoons can be. Visit https://www.inca1.com/the-wild-north to learn more!

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🦀

12/14/2023

Consider this: When traveling Turkey do it in a classy Mediterranean sailboat known as a Gulet.

We think you will like the places you can float, while the al-fresco deck gives you a view of it all under the warm sun with a cool ocean breeze wafting over you.

All along Turkey's Turquoise Coast, there are hidden alcoves and bays that hold the stories, etched in stone, of times when civilization as we know it was beginning.

Sailing along in the Gulet, you will be able to immerse yourself in this increidble place, seeing the likes of Cleopatra's Baths, loggerhead turtle nesting cites, island ruins that once housed crusaders, and so much more that is only possible by sail.

To learn more about the Turkey experience, visit our website. Link in bio
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12/11/2023

Do you know sea lions are the animals that have the most fun?

That might not be scientifically tested, but after hanging out with them during a snorkel or kayaking next to them, it feels like no animal likes to play quite as much as these guys.

Come hang out with them on our expertly crafted itineraries in the Galapagos Islands.

All the information you need is on our website and inca1.com/galapagos.

Hope to see you there!

12/04/2023

A look into history: Istanbul with Eliza, the woman behind our adventures in Turkey

Having already traveled to much of the Eastern Mediterranean as a young adult, Eliza Tenza returned to Turkey in the 90s with Bill to scout out what would become one of INCA's most beloved destinations.

From the archives, we get a picture of the Istanbul she fell in love with.

Those first trips made for an experience that has lived on in the form of stories around the dinner table and incredible journeys for every INCA traveler who has followed in her footsteps.

From the rich markets to the cultural heritage that can be found in every corner of the city, we are lucky to have someone on our team who dove into the beauty of Turkey's capital, and took us along for the ride.

Tag someone you want to share an adventure through Turkey with!
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11/28/2023

There’s more to Ecuador than you might expect. 🏔️🦭

From Andean peaks towering 6,000 meters (20,000 feet) above sea level to the sea itself, splashing up against the enchanted Galápagos Islands, Ecuador’s diversity is amazing!

For those that stay at the charming hotel , the beauty of the highlands reveals both cultural heritage, with mysterious pre-Incan pyramids, and natural heritage, with Ecuador’s only Andean condor rehabilitation and reproduction center with successfully breeding pairs.

A cruise with the travel company brings you to the ocean in the Galapagos, where snorkeling becomes your nature channel as abundant life thrives both above and below the sea.

Tell us in the comments what you most want to see in Ecuador!

Address

Emeryville, CA

Opening Hours

Monday	8am - 5pm
Tuesday	8am - 5pm
Wednesday	8am - 5pm
Thursday	8am - 5pm
Friday	8am - 5pm

Website

http://www.inca1.com/

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Videos

Humpback Whale Breaching in the Galapagos Islands

Humpback Whale Watching in the Galapagos! This August, some of our lucky INCA guests had the unforgettable experience of spotting Humpback Whales breaching in the Galapagos Islands. Capturing the moment was none other than Pati Stucki, one of our incredible Galapagos Naturalists! Humpback whales frequent the Galapagos Islands during their tropical migration and are most often spotted in the dry season between June and December. What was your most exciting wildlife encounter when visiting the Galapagos? Or, what would you most like to see?

Do you know sea lions are the animals that have the most fun? That might not be scientifically tested, but after hanging out with them during a snorkel or kayaking next to them, it feels like no animal likes to play quite as much as these guys. Come hang out with them on our expertly crafted itineraries in the Galapagos Islands. All the information you need is on our website and inca1.com/galapagos. Hope to see you there!

Traveling as a kid can have a lasting impact. Ellie, now 26, reflects on a family trip to the Galapagos at age 9. Do you remember your first travel experience? "I was 9 when I went on a family trip to the Galapagos Islands, and it was like stepping into a whole other planet. I had never seen so much wildlife, so close, before. It meant a lot to go as a kid, at my most curious. Our guide, Richard, was there to answer all of my questions, and I had a lot of them. One of the things that really stuck with me was how little fear the animals had - they were so safe from humans there and protected. The experiencehas changed how I interact with the world ever since. It was like I was reaching out and the world was reaching back." * * * * * * * * #travelwithINCA #TravelwithKids #FamilyTravel #INCAKids #INCATeam #INCAHistory #GalapagoswithKids #GalapagosFamily #CruisewithKids #myfirsttrip #HikeGalapagos #SnorkelGalapagos #GalapagosIslandsCruise #NaturalistGuide #RichardPolatty #FamilyAdventureTravel