10 Day Tour

Day 1 : Arrive Guayaquil

Day 2 : Fly Galapagos/Embark Ship

This morning fly to the Galapagos. Flying time is approximately 1½ hours; upon arrival immediately board ship. During lunch we’ll sail to Santa Cruz Island for a magnificent introduction to the wildlife. Spend the afternoon exploring mangrove-flanked channels and the shoreline of Cerro Dragon, looking for land iguanas, sea lions, a variety of birds and schools of golden rays.

Days 3-8 : Exploring the Galapagos Islands

While our exact routing depends on the Galapagos National Park Service, we may visit the following islands: Santa Cruz, Espanola, Floreana, Fernandina, Isabela, Bartolome and Santiago. Here is a brief description of what each island offers.

Bartolome: This is an enchanting landscape where lava, mangroves and golden sand converge. Great walks, views and a chance to snorkel with penguins — a tropical oxymoron.

Santiago: Santiago provides us a chance to see the Galapagos fur seal, along with the opportunity to enjoy the best "tide pooling."

Santa Cruz: The epicenter of Galapagos administration as well as the Charles Darwin Research Center where we'll learn about their vital preservation work. We'll head up into the highlands to roam the moss-draped lush landscape where wild giant tortoises often forage.

Isabela: Anchor off the picturesque port of Puerto Villamil. Walk the streets of this small town, visit the nearby saltwater lagoons, home to flamingos or simply stroll along a beautiful beach. Visit the tortoise breeding center which is jointly administered by the Galapagos National Park and the Charles Darwin Research Station. We’ll also explore Isabela's caves and shoreline and search the waters for dolphins, whales, sea turtles and the elusive ocean sunfish — the mola-mola.

Fernandina: We'll also investigate Punta Espinoza on Fernandina Island — the youngest island in Galapagos. It's marine iguana heaven, with Isabela's volcanoes as a dramatic backdrop.

Floreana: Champion Islet, just off the eastern shore of Floreana, is a fabulous snorkel site and home to a large colony of sea lions. There is nothing more delightful than an hour spent in the clear waters with these creatures! On Floreana, we may find flamingos, pintail ducks and various shorebirds. Hike to a lovely white sand beach, a favorite nesting site for sea turtles.

Espanola: We will visit two distinctly different parts of the same island. See blue-footed boobies, sea lions galore, Espanola marine iguanas which develop particularly vivid coloration, and waved albatross (mid-April through mid-December) exclusive to this island. Snorkel and stroll the island's lovely beaches.

Day 9 : Disembark/Fly Guayaquil

This morning disembark the ship and fly to Guayaquil. The late afternoon and evening free to explore the city and prepare for your journey home. If you would to visit Quito, please inquire about our optional Quito extensions.

Day 10 : Guayaquil/Fly Home