Wonders of the Galapagos
GALAPAGOS CRUISE - CENTRAL, EAST, SOUTH & WEST ISLANDS: Experience the Galapagos' beauty on an 11-day cruise, exploring islands such as San Cristobal, Espinola, Floreana, and more. Learn about Charles Darwin on Santa Cruz, encounter sunbathing sea lions at Elizabeth Bay, spot marine iguanas on Fernandina, and discover Galapagos Sea turtles near Bartolome Island. Enjoy scenic hikes to see volcanoes and the famous Pinnacle Rock. Begin and end your adventure with a night in Quito, Ecuador's charming capital.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes
Tour overview
Itinerary
Day 1 Quito
Day 1 Quito
Upon arrival at Quito airport you will be met by an English speaking guide and transferred to your hotel in the city. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, independently exploring.
Day 2 San Cristobal Island
Day 2 San Cristobal Island
Quito - Galapagos. This morning, transfer back to the airport for your flight to San Cristobal Island in the Galapagos, where your guide will be waiting for you. Transfer to the M/C Anahi which will be your home for the next 4 days. Settle into your cabin and enjoy lunch onboard before your tour of the wildlife-rich Galapagos Islands begins.
San Cristobal is one of the easternmost of the Galapagos Islands and the site where Charles Darwin landed in 1835, marking the start of his romance with this fascinating archipelago. Our first port of call here is the San Cristobal Interpretation Centre, which offers intriguing insight into the history of the island and its development over time in regards to its flora and fauna, populace and conservation efforts. Later we will take a walk up the picturesque Tijeretas Hill, boasting spectacular views of the island. Here there will also be the chance to go snorkelling in a nearby inlet, and perhaps you’ll even be lucky enough to spot a sight only seen here – of two species of frigate birds nesting in the same colony.
Day 3 Espanola Island
Day 3 Espanola Island
Today we will explore Espanola, one of the oldest islands within the archipelago – dating back some 3.3 million years, and also one of its prettiest. Due to its distance from the other islands, Espanola is home to an incredible number of endemic species including the albatross, a variety of mocking birds, lava lizards and even Darwin’s finches.
We will start the morning by exploring Punta Suarez, situated on the western side of the island, where you will hopefully be able to spot some of the island’s unique birdlife. Later in the afternoon we will make our way to the northern coat to Gardener Bay, home to an enormous colony of sea lions which can be seen lazing on the beach and rocks during breeding season.
Day 4 Floreana Island
Day 4 Floreana Island
Our next port of call is Floreana. Although one of the smallest islands in the Galapagos, Floreana certainly makes up for what it lacks in size with its fascinating history. Home to one of the first settlements in the archipelago, this small island was once thriving with pirates and whalers. Floreana also boasts unprecedented flora, thanks to its nutrient-rich soil, and stunning beaches.
Here we will enjoy a morning excursion to Punta Cormorant on the northern coast, where we will discover a beautiful lagoon thriving with flamingos and a fine sand beach, which is a nesting area for sea turtles. Later we will cruise out to the Devil’s Crown – a collapsed volcanic crown and perhaps one of the best snorkelling sites in the Galapagos Islands, where you can spot submarine life such as sea turtles, Galapagos sharks, moray eels and sea lines. Outside of the crown is a good place to see hammerhead sharks.
This afternoon we will visit historic Post Office Bay, which is where travelling seamen would leave letters in a wooden barrel with the hopes that the next person to come along might be able to take their letter in the right direction. Today, this tradition lives on with the tourists who visit the Galapagos. It's possible to send a letter or postcard from Post Office Bay without stamp, all you have to do in return is pick up a letter that is directed to where you live.
Day 5 Santa Cruz & Charles Darwin
Day 5 Santa Cruz & Charles Darwin
Our next stop will be Santa Cruz, the second largest of the islands, located at the centre of the archipelago. We will kick off the morning with a tour of Charles Darwin Station, which takes in the famous tortoise breeding centre. The Galapagos breeding program sees eggs are brought from the Galapagos Islands of Pinzon, Santiago and Santa Cruz to the station where they are incubated artificially; the galapaguitos are born and reared until the age of 5 years, and when they can survive the effects of introduced predators they are returned to their native areas. There is also a breeding program for iguanas.
After lunch our guide will lead us on a stroll through a stunning forest brimming with ferns, sedges, and miconias. On this journey, there's a chance to witness giant tortoises in their natural habitat. Later, we venture to one of the numerous lava tunnels in the area where we take a brief walk, marvelling at the remnants of a forceful volcanic eruption that took place millions of years ago.
Day 6 Isabela Island & Las Tintoreras
Day 6 Isabela Island & Las Tintoreras
Isabela is the name of the largest and the youngest island within the Galapagos Archipelago and we start the day visiting the islets of Las Tintoreras. These islets boast a small bay with tranquil turquoise waters, affording us the opportunity to witness an array of marine life: from sea lions and sea turtles to marine iguanas, stingrays, and a multitude of other aquatic species. Next, we walk along a pathway and discover two beaches. The first one is a favoured haven for sea lions and marine iguanas that call the area their nesting ground. The second beach finds itself surrounded by button mangroves (Conocarpus erecta) and white mangroves (Laguncularia racemosa). Leaving Las Tintoreras we head to Puerto Villamil from which we travel to Sierra Negra Volcano that rises to an altitude of 1124 meters.
In the afternoon we explore the wetlands of Los Humedales where we can witness a variety of wetland birds. Returning to Puerto Villamil we have some free time to explore the town before returning to the boat for the evening.
Day 7 Punta Moreno & Elizabeth Bay
Day 7 Punta Moreno & Elizabeth Bay
Today begins in Punta Moreno where we hike a 2100-meter trail that offers panoramic views of Sierra Negra, Cerro Azul, and Fernandina volcanoes, the three most active in all the Galapagos. At the end of the trail we can do a surface dive in the brisk waters where marine life is abundant. We then return to the yacht for lunch and a rest before heading out again.
Heading into Elizabeth Bay we visit a picturesque cove surrounded by red mangroves. This is a fantastic spot to see sea turtles, flightless cormorants, spotted eagle rays, golden rays, brown pelicans and sea lions. With Galapagos falcons above and Mahi-mahi fish below this stunning site is home to numerous marine and terrestrial flora and fauna for visitors to marvel at. Following this we return to the yacht for the night.
Day 8 Urbina Bay, Tagus Cove & Lake Darwin
Day 8 Urbina Bay, Tagus Cove & Lake Darwin
At the foot of Alcedo volcano Urbina Bay is linked to the shore by an approximately 3200-meter pathway. Upon making a beach landing, our journey continues through the coastal expanse, navigating a varied terrain of sand, rocks, lava formations, corals, and flourishing plant life. Here we can see large sized land iguanas, as well as giant Galapagos tortoises, flightless cormorants, blue-footed boobies, Galapagos penguins, pelicans, and marine iguanas.
After sailing towards Tagus Cove we can snorkel, surface dive, or kayak in the pristine blue water. Following our swim we hike up to the top of a cliff which gives offers a picturesque view of Lake Darwin. Volcanic rocks of various sizes can be found around the lake, including almost perfect spheres of “petrified rain.”
Day 9 Fernandina Island & Punta Vicente Roca
Day 9 Fernandina Island & Punta Vicente Roca
The third largest island of the archipelago is Fernandina and has one unique attraction. Situated at the remote north eastern edge of the island, Punta Espinoza is a slender expanse crafted from lava and sand, stretching from the volcano's base to the ocean's edge. This area is known for the abundance of marine iguanas, and its unique fauna full of species such as the flightless cormorant, the Galapagos penguin, the Galapagos falcon, and the Galapagos racer snake. There may also be the opportunity to snorkel with the local marine fauna, maybe even seahorses!
Punta Vicente Roca is the location of an ancient volcano where we can snorkel and will then either experience a panga ride along the cliffs of the volcano or explore a partially submerged cave. Watch the Nazca and blue-footed boobies along the cliffs and the flightless cormorants on the shore. Returning to the ship we will cross the equator and celebrate with a special cocktail.
Day 10 Santiago Island & Rabida Island
Day 10 Santiago Island & Rabida Island
Starting the day on Santiago Island we will hike along the black sand beaches of Puerto Egas to spot many marine species, such as the iguanas relaxing on the rocks, and the sea lions resting in the tidal pools. Snorkelling here is a new experience due to its relatively different landscape compared to the previous locations.
Moving on to Rabida Island and its red rocks and sand we enjoy a snorkelling activity, learning more about the local marine life. Then a short trail walk leads us to a picturesque lagoon filled with terrestrial birds such as finches, pigeons, yellow warblers and mockingbirds. A colony of flamingos also calls this lagoon its home meaning we may catch a glimpse of these beautiful pink birds.
Day 11 Sombrero Chino & Bartolome Island
Day 11 Sombrero Chino & Bartolome Island
The sun dawning on the stunning “Sombrero Chino” channel offers panoramic views as we arrive at the day's first destination. We walk a 700-meter trail in order to view the wildlife and observe the geological characteristics of this island. This landscape is the home of colonies of sea lions, marine iguanas, and sometimes even Galapagos penguins. Swimming in this picturesque bay we will be amongst sharks, stingrays, and many unique species of fish.
Bartolome Island, a renowned destination in the Galapagos, stands just off Sullivan Bay, close to Santiago Island. On arrival we can swim around the iconic Pinnacle Rock and navigating the submerged rocks that form an enthralling underwater maze for marine life. Later, we walk up to the island's summit to witness an array of captivating volcanic features, including volcanic bombs, ash cones, lava flows, and lava tubes. This moon-like landscape offers one of the most striking views in the entire archipelago. Our second stop leads us to a serene beach, perfect for relaxation and snorkelling. Beneath the waters, a multitude of multi-coloured fish await, and you might even be fortunate enough to spot penguins and sea turtles near the base of the dominating Pinnacle Rock, which defines Bartolome's landscape.
Day 12 North Seymour Island, Baltra & Quito
Day 12 North Seymour Island, Baltra & Quito
This morning we visit North Seymour, a small island positioned north of Baltra where we can observe the land iguanas on the coast. After this visit, transfer to the airport on Baltra Island for your flight back to Quito. Upon arrival you'll be met and transferred to your hotel in Quito for your final night.
Day 13 Quito
Day 13 Quito
Saturday. Arrangements end after breakfast and hotel check out today.
Tour Highlights
Included
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Prices & Dates
Hotels
Inspired by the rich history and culture of Ecuador, the Ikala Quito Hotel's 44 rooms are housed in three grand colonial houses which were once home to Ecuadorian aristocracy. Offering a choice of standard rooms or deluxe suites, there's tasteful decor in abundance and artwork painted on canvas or directly onto the walls. Rooms feature ensuite bathrooms and there is free Wi-Fi throughout the property. As well as the onsite restaurant and bar, there are plenty of outdoor areas, including patios, gardens, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views over the city.
The M/C Anahi is meticulously designed to provide travellers with an unforgettable and immersive experience while exploring the enchanting Galapagos Islands. This first class vessel boasts an elegant and modern design, with a maximum capacity of just 16 passengers, providing an intimate setting. The catamaran offers spacious and well-appointed cabins which are tastefully decorated and equipped with large windows, allowing guests to wake up to breath-taking views of the Galapagos Islands. Each en suite cabin is air-conditioned and furnished with cozy amenities to create a tranquil retreat after a day of exploration. There are six standard cabins located on the main deck (four twin and two double). On the upper deck the vessel has two suites, equipped with a double bed and sofa bed. Each day the chef serves a delectable range of dishes inspired by both local and international cuisines. Meals are prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and dining is a delightful experience in the spacious dining area, complete with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Guests can soak in the beauty of the Galapagos Islands from the observation decks and lounges strategically positioned throughout the yacht. Whether you're stargazing or soaking up the sunshine, enjoying a cocktail at the bar or relaxing in the jacuzzi, these areas provide the perfect vantage point to appreciate the natural wonders of the archipelago. The M/C Anahi offers an enriching experience with certified naturalist guides who are passionate about the Galapagos Islands and its wildlife. These experts lead daily excursions and share their knowledge about the unique flora and fauna that call these islands home. The Anahi's itinerary includes a range of thrilling activities, such as snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking, allowing guests to get up close and personal with the incredible wildlife and landscapes of the Galapagos.
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Extras and add-ons
Ikala Quito Hotel Suite Upgrade (per person)
Upgrade to a suite at the Ikala Hotel in Quito on the first and last night - price is per person for the two nights.
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