Galapagos Islands

DAY 1

BALTRA / EMBARKATION / BLACK TURTLE COVE

(Package B Begins)

This truly exceptional expedition to the heart of the Galapagos begins with a departure from Quito or Guayaquil to Baltra, where you’ll board the ship.

The north shore of Santa Cruz Island is accessible only by sea. Here, four species of mangrove crowd from the shore out into the lagoon. The cove takes its name from the turtles that enjoy swimming in the tranquil waters, their heads peeking above the surface. Peering beneath the boat, you’ll see white-tipped reef sharks, rays, and fish. And in the air you’ll see sea birds such as pelicans, herons, and egrets feeding in the cove.

SULLIVAN BAY / RABIDA

Located at the southeastern portion of Santiago Island, Sullivan Bay features extensive lava flows believed to have formed during the last quarter of the 19th century. Spend the morning exploring on foot, snorkeling, or swimming.

URBINA BAY / TAGUS COVE

In the morning, make a wet landing on a volcanic “black” beach. Depending on the season, Urbina Bay is home to giant tortoises, land iguanas, and the unusual flightless cormorant. After a short walk inland, snorkeling time is allotted, giving you yet another chance to swim with sea turtles, sea lions, and countless tropical fish. The bay also boasts an ever-changing variety of flora depending on the season. Here, observe the beautiful colours of plants, many of which serve to attract different insects, birds, and reptiles. After, discover an uplifted coral reef which resulted from volcanic activity in 1954. This site also offers a spectacular view of Alcedo Volcano.

ESPINOSA POINT / VINCENTE ROCA POINT

In the morning, make a dry landing on Fernandina, where from Espinosa Point you can see the island of Isabela across the Bolívar Channel, an area that boasts one of the widest varieties of endemic sea fauna in the Galapagos. The largest, most primitive-looking race of marine iguanas can be found mingling with sea lions and Sally Lightfoot crabs. Here, you may also encounter flightless cormorants at their nesting sites, Galapagos Penguins, and the islands’ “king” of predators—the Galapagos Hawk. Pa-hoe-hoe lava formations—also known as ‘a‘ā lava formations—cover the majority of the terrain. Vegetation is scarce inland, but we encounter Brachycereus cacti and extensive mangrove beds lining the shores.

HIGHLANDS / MOSQUERA ISLET

Today, a 45-minute bus ride will take you to the Santa Cruz highlands, located to the northwest of Puerto Ayora, where you’ll find a natural reserve with giant tortoises. These enormous and slow-moving reptiles are responsible for the island’s name and therefore approaching them in their humid and forested abode is always an inspiring adventure. They can weigh between 250 and 300 kilograms and can live an astounding 150-200 years.

SOUTH PLAZA / SANTA FE

Today’s walk begins with an impressive cactus forest surrounded by land and marine iguanas. As you reach the highest point, be on the lookout for tropic birds, Nazca and blue-footed boobies, and swallow-tailed gulls.

PITT POINT / CERRO BRUJO

This morning, set off on a high-intensity hike on rocky terrain. Follow a 90-metre olivine beach, then a path that climbs to the top of a volcanic tuff through several magnificent viewpoints. This is probably the only site where the three booby species of the Galapagos can be seen together. You may also spot two species of frigatebirds and a sea lion colony on a dinghy ride, and observe even more wildlife as you snorkel.

CERRO COLORADO TORTOISE RESERVE / DISEMBARKATION

Dry landing in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. Passengers visit the San Cristóbal giant tortoise breeding center to learn about the National Park’s conservation programs. Enjoy a beautiful landscape on the way to the reserve. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit the port village, have a drink, or shop for arts, crafts, and other souvenirs on your final morning in this Pacific paradise.