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Sea lion coming in from a swim

Galápagos Islands Nature and Wildlife Expedition Cruise

Example 7 Day Cruise aboard Santa Cruz II
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On this voyage, you will explore fascinating sites on Santiago Island: Buccaneer Cove, home to a number of marine birds, sea lions, and inter-tidal organisms, and Puerto Egas, with its great walk-along pools, snorkeling and swimming. The next day you will visit the red-sand beach of Rabida Island, a popular spot for aquatic activities, with some of the best snorkeling in the Galapagos! Stop at Bartolome Island, which offers a volcanic viewpoint with room for hiking, swimming, and exploring the beach and the coast. Cross the equatorial line, to the sunken crater of Genovesa Island, home to thousands of marine birds. Finish with an opportunity to witness the giant Galapagos tortoises at a private reserve up in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island before making your way back to the airport at Baltra.
Snorkeling in the GalapagosA close up look of the Sally Lightfoot Crab.Punto Egas, Santiago Island, GalapagosGalapagos penguin RabidaSea lion coming in from a swim
Highlights
  • Hike along the red beaches and volcanic cliffs of Rabida Island
  • Visit famous Pinnacle rock and snorkel off of its white sand beaches
  • Cruise to Buccaneer Cove and learn about its history of pirates
Activities
Places Visited
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Quito

Your journey of discovery begins on the equator in the lush Andean foothills. At 9,350 ft, Quito is the second-highest capital city in the world, and its main draw is the exquisite Old Town which was founded on an ancient Inca settlement. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s packed with well-preserved colonial architecture, including colorful plazas, magnificent churches, and handsome monuments. If you have enough time in the evening, make sure to visit the Calle La Ronda, an ancient pedestrianized street with links to the poets and artists who’ve lived here. It’s lined with shops and cafes, and there are many handicrafts available to buy.

If you have time, it is recommended to come a few days earlier and join one of the optional Pre-Programs.

Day 2: Quito

Today, enjoy a guided tour of Quito’s remarkable Old Town, one of the largest and best-preserved colonial-era quarters in South America. Wander through cobblestone streets as you admire the architecture and sample delicious chocolate made from the finest Ecuadorian cacao along the way.

Next, head to the iconic ‘Middle of the World City’, located around 16 miles north of Quito. After lunch, visit the famous monument that delineates the imaginary line that is the Equator. Have your camera ready to capture the moment you stand with one foot in each hemisphere.

Day 3: Baltra | Embark | Dragon Hill, Santa Cruz

As your South American land adventure draws to a close, it is time to embark on the next stage of your journey. After breakfast, a short flight takes you to Baltra Island, a part of the spectacular Galápagos Archipelago. A transfer takes you straight to the port, where your comfortable expedition ship MS Santa Cruz II awaits you.

Begin your afternoon exploration of the Galápagos Islands by following the north shore of Santa Cruz to the fascinating landscapes of Cerro Dragón, or Dragon Hill, where you’ll land. On the first part of your walk, pass a brackish lagoon frequented by shorebirds and American flamingos. Further inland, the trail offers a beautiful view of the bay and the western islands of the archipelago, as well as your first chance to encounter some land iguanas.

Day 4: Buccaneer Cove | Puerto Egas, Santiago

Today, explore Santiago Island’s pristine beaches and picturesque landscapes. Take in the impressive cliffs of Buccaneer Cove on the northwest coast, home to a large number of marine birds and sea lions. Immerse yourself in the scenery through a range of water activities and marvel at fantastic rock formations such as ‘Elephant Rock’ and ‘The Bishop.’ 

In the afternoon, head to Puerto Egas, one of the best visitor sites on the island. You’ll have the opportunity to see a colony of fur-sea lions and exotic birdlife on an excursion. Or you could just swim or snorkel along the rocky shorelines, typically, in the company of marine turtles.

Day 5: Rabida | Bartolome

Your day starts on tiny Rábida Island, located off the southern shore of Santiago. You can go for a thrilling dinghy ride along the coast or join an excursion exploring the island’s mesmerizing, red-colored beach. Soak up the sights and sounds made by a colony of sea lions, and spot marine iguanas, mockingbirds, Yellow Warblers, and several species of Darwin’s Finches. 

In the afternoon, sail to the golden sands of Bartolomé Island, dominated by the imposing Pinnacle Rock. You can swim or snorkel off the beach here or discover colorful marine life from the glass-bottom boat, and spot Galápagos Penguins on the shore. Hike up to the summit of the island for fantastic views.

Day 6: Genovesa Island | Darwin Bay

Today, explore Genovesa Island. The morning starts with a steep but short climb – only 90 ft – up a flight of steps to reach a flat and rocky plateau. Once there, you can walk along comfortably and check out large colonies of Nazca Boobies, Red-footed Boobies, Great Frigatebirds, and Storm Petrels. Afterward or instead, hop into a kayak for some aquatic adventuring!

In the afternoon, land at the beautiful beach that fringes Darwin Bay for a swim. Following this refreshing dip, take a stroll and observe hundreds of island birds, or just take it easy on the beach, swimming, snorkeling, or kayaking.

Day 7: Disembark | Tortoise Reserve | Baltra Airport

  • 1 Breakfast
Start your last morning on the north shore of Santa Cruz Island. After a dry landing at a passenger wharf and a bus ride to the island’s higher region, you’ll see a final highlight of your expedition cruise: giant tortoises in the wild.

The windward slopes of the island are set aside as a reserve that is home to two species of giant tortoise. These lush highlands also feature dense forests of Galápagos daisies, orchids, and bromeliads.

After this visit, take a transfer directly to the airport in Baltra for your flight to Quito, and connect to your international flight. Flight to Quito must be requested at the time of booking. Please contact us at the time of booking to continue to Quito at the end of your tour. If you prefer, you can continue to Guayaquil for another adventure.

To explore more of Ecuador, it is recommended to extend your stay and join one of the optional Post-Programs.

Ship/Hotel

Santa Cruz II

MS Santa Cruz II

Santa Cruz II

Combining luxury, amenities, and many social areas, the recently remodeled 90-passenger Santa Cruz II reigns in the Galapagos as one of the most comfortable large cruise ships in the archipelago. Featuring all new a fitness room, gift shop, al fresco BBQ area, restaurant, bar, & lounge, as well as other social areas to get to know your fellow passengers.
BEAGLE RESTAURANT
Evolution Hall Santa Cruz II

Quito - Hotels

Aerial shot of Go Quito Hotel

Go Quito Hotel

The property features a bar and a business corner. It is conveniently situated near attractions such as La Carolina Park, Quicentro Shopping Center, and Iñaquito Shopping Center. The nearest airport to the hotel is Quito's Mariscal Sucre International Airport, which is located 36 km away.
Hacienda Jimenita facade

Hacienda Jimenita

Located just 15 minutes away from the airport. Hacienda Jimenita Naturhotel & Wildlife Reserve is a beautifully-maintained hacienda that provides a tranquil retreat surrounded by lush nature. With a range of grand and comfortable rooms on offer, guests can enjoy a luxurious stay, with access to WiFi internet in all guest rooms and common areas.
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Home, sweet Aliso

Casa Aliso

Casa Aliso is one of the most exclusive boutique hotels in Ecuador with a reputation of providing the best service in the region.- Quito.
Quito, Ecuador

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Rates and availability subject to change without notice until a firm booking has been made.
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Explorer Cabin - Horizon deck (EH)
With comfortable spaces and large picture windows to illuminate the interior spaces and allow guests to take in the views, these cabins offer elegant areas to relax after a day of active exploring. There are 23 Explorer cabins located on the Horizon deck. Beds convert from double to twin upon request. Cabin code: EH
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Explorer Cabin - Expedition deck (EE)
With comfortable spaces and large picture windows to illuminate the interior spaces and allow guests to take in the views, these cabins offer elegant areas to relax after a day of active exploring. There are 17 Explorer cabins located as on the Expedition deck. Beds convert from double to twin upon request. Cabin code: EE
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Explorer Cabin - Panorama deck (EP)
With comfortable spaces and large picture windows to illuminate the interior spaces and allow guests to take in the views, these cabins offer elegant areas to relax after a day of active exploring. There are 3 Explorer cabins located on the Panorama deck. Beds convert from double to twin upon request. Cabin code: EP
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Explorer Family Cabin - Horizon deck (FH)
With comfortable spaces and large picture windows to illuminate the interior spaces and allow guests to take in the views, these cabins offer elegant areas to relax after a day of active exploring. There are 2 Explorer family cabins located on the Horizon deck. Cabins are equipped with twin beds and a sofa bed (ideal for children under 12). Cabin code: FH
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Darwin Suite - Panorama deck (DS)
Our three Darwin suites on the Panorama deck feature double picture windows, and offers superb comfort and deluxe amenities. Available with a twin or double bed, and if more space is desired, these suites can be interconnected with an Explorer cabin. Cabin code: DS

Notes

Please provide your wetsuite size in advance prior to trip

Rates and availability subject to change without notice until a firm booking has been made.

Child Discount

Children under 12 may receive discounts on Galapagos flight fares and entrance fees. Contact us for details.
Included
  • 5 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, 5 Dinners
  • 6 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Bilingual Naturalist Guide 
  • Adventure Life Pre-departure Services and In-Country Assistance (Quito Representative)
  • Shore Excursions, Swimming and Snorkeling 
  • Transfers and Baggage Handling in the Galapagos
  • Snorkeling and kayaking equipment is included in the cruise cost and available for your use on board.
Excluded
  • Gratuities
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Galapagos Park Entrance Fee: $200 per adult, $100 per child under 12. Subject to increase by Galapagos Park Service.
  • Wetsuits are not included but are available to rent on board - $22 for 5-day tours, and $41 for 7-day tours.
  • Fuel Surcharge - to be invoiced separately

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Our guide and driver were very good with their knowledge and were very helpful with our questions. It was a very pleasant visit that would have been impossible to do on our own. Hotels and restaurants were fantastic. The special places we got to go to, like the kitchens, were great. Enjoyed the entire trip!
Meyer Smolen
TrustScore 4.8 | 544 reviews
TrustScore 4.8 of 5
total score
Based on 544 reviews on
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1 month ago
I just returned from a 10 day trip to Ecuador and The Galapagos Island. From the very first conversation with Adventure Life until my return, everything went smoothly. It was a great trip! Adventure Life excels at communication and organization. Every detail was considered, which made the preparation for my trip really easy. In country, my guides were outstanding...friendly, knowledgeable, on time, professional. I really can't say enough good things about how well I was taken care of during my trip. When flying to a new country it's comforting to be met by a friendly face at the airport who knows where you're going! All of my hotels were well-located and thoughtfully selected for comfort and historic interest. The yacht I sailed on through the islands exceeded my expectations in every way. My cabin was very comfortable, the food we were served was excellent and the crew was first-class. Our Park Guide found the perfect balance between fun and education. His passion for the Galápagos Islands was evident in every activity on every island. I look forward to planning my next trip with Adventure Life, and thank their entire team for making this adventure wonderful!
Tracy Heuermann

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