Galápagos Cruise

Welcome to Quito, Ecuador's picturesque capital city! Your adventure begins here.

Upon your independent arrival in the city, make your way to the hotel's welcome desk. Take the opportunity to get acquainted with your journey’s host, settle in, and prepare for the exciting adventure ahead.

Discover the cultural richness of Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage city, with its historic neighbourhoods, outstanding museums, and tantalizing flavours.

Marvel at the breathtaking views from the Panecillo, a hill that rises on the southern limit of the Old Town, providing a privileged viewpoint of Quito's beauty. Take a stroll through the historic San Roque neighbourhood and catch a glimpse of the daily lives of the locals in this traditional barrio.

Journey to Independence Square, the main plaza that pulses with folklore, history, and the vibrant rhythm of everyday life. Be captivated by the architectural splendour of La Compañía Church, bathed in gold leaf from tip to toe, a true jewel of Ecuador. Step inside the iconic San Francisco Church and Monastery, where the Baroque church, extensive museum of Colonial religious art, and enchanting choir await your discovery. 

Indulge in the flavours of the Andean region with a delectable lunch at the Middle of the World, where you can stand on the Equatorial Line and learn about the significant 1736 Geodesic Mission.

Later, savour a memorable dinner at Casa Gangotena, featuring their Cocina Mestiza, a fine example of Ecuadorian cuisine. This will be a signature Taste of Place event.

Your adventure continues as you embark on a morning flight to the Galápagos, touching down on Baltra Island. This flat island was chosen for its substrate and became the site of the airport in the 1940s.

Upon arrival, you'll board La Pinta, your home for the rest of the journey. Settle into your cabin after an introductory briefing and boat drill.

As we sail along the coast and interior of North Seymour Island, keep your binoculars handy to observe the abundant bird colonies, sea lions, and iguanas that call this area home. Your journey may also include opportunities for coastal exploration by panga (Zodiac), giving you a closer look at the unique ecology and geography of the region.

Join our expert guides as we set out on the pangas for an exploration of the coast, providing you with a unique and firsthand view of the area's remarkable geology. Depending on ocean conditions, get the opportunity to snorkel along the cliffs keeping a lookout for magnificent green sea turtles and a myriad of other marine animals.

Prepare to be amazed as we set foot on Fernandina, the archipelago's youngest and most pristine island. At Punta Espinoza, witness the remarkable juxtaposition of the barren landscape with the abundant wildlife. Look out for hawks, Galápagos penguins, and flightless cormorants, all against the backdrop of astounding volcanic vistas that dominate the surrounding landscapes.

Journey to Urbina Bay on the western island of Isabela. Discover an underwater wonderland of vibrant corals and exquisite shells, while keeping an eye out for Galápagos land iguanas and giant tortoises. In the nearby Bolívar Channel, there are excellent opportunities to spot a variety of whale species.

Visit the secluded Tagus Cove, once favoured by pirates and whalers, for thrilling snorkelling or kayaking adventures. Conclude with a hike to the saltwater-filled Darwin Crater, embracing the untamed beauty of the surroundings.

Venture to Rábida Island's mesmerizing, red-coloured beach, where a plethora of wildlife awaits. Watch for marine iguanas, mockingbirds, yellow warblers, and various species of Darwin's finches. Opt to snorkel from the beach or explore the vibrant marine life through a glass-bottom boat cruise.

Journey to the north shore of Santa Cruz discovering Cerro Dragón, also known as Dragon Hill. Stroll around a brackish lagoon frequently visited by birds, and hike inland to get a beautiful view of the bay and the archipelago's western islands.

Explore the Charles Darwin Research Station, where remarkable efforts are underway to restore tortoise populations in the Galápagos. Wander through the prickly-pear cactus forest, learn about the facility's various research projects, and gain a deep understanding of the crucial conservation efforts taking place in the Galápagos region.

Enjoy a delicious poolside lunch at the Finch Bay Eco Hotel before heading to the Santa Cruz Island highlands to see Darwin's finches, endemic Scalesia trees, and giant tortoises in their natural habitat.

Immerse yourself in the wonders of Floreana Island. Hop on a panga for a thrilling ride along the north shore, arriving at the iconic Post Office Bay where you can participate in the intriguing tradition of letter exchange.

At Champion Islet, enjoy opportunities to kayak, snorkel, and ride the glass bottom boat for an up-close view of the island’s marvels.

Take a peaceful stroll at Punta Cormorant, observing the magnificent greater flamingo—the largest living species of flamingo—in their brackish lagoon habitat.

Venture to the other side of the island where white sandy beaches and sea turtles await your visit.

Conclude your journey on Baltra Island, where we will disembark La Pinta and proceed to the airport for our charter flight back to Quito.

Arriving in Quito in the afternoon, we’ll say our farewells in Ecuador’s second-largest city.