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South Plaza Island

Central East Islands

Baltra - San Cristobal - Example 5 Day Cruise aboard Hermes Ultra Luxury Cruise
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Experience a remarkable 5-day cruise aboard the Hermes Ultra Luxury Cruise through the captivating Central East Galapagos Islands. Board the vessel at Baltra then explore Santa Cruz's highlands, witness giant tortoises in their natural habitat, and venture into underground lava tunnels. At Rábida's red sand beach, spot pelicans and enjoy snorkeling. Hike to Bartolomé's summit for a panoramic view and snorkel around the iconic Pinnacle Rock. South Plaza offers wildlife spotting and a cactus forest walk, while Santa Fé Island boasts lush flora and land iguanas. On San Cristóbal Island, observe marine iguanas and seabirds at Punta Pitt before discovering the wildlife of Cerro Brujo and Isla Lobos. Conclude your adventure at San Cristobal airport, having experienced the Galapagos' natural wonders and diverse ecosystems.
Wildlife in the GalapagosGiant TortoisePinnacle rock in BartolomeKayak on a beach in the galapagosCouple sitting on a beach among sea lionsHiking through cacti in the GalapagosCurious blue footed boobyColorful land iguanaSouth Plaza Island
Highlights
  • Explore the Santa Cruz highlands, meet giant tortoises, and lava tunnels
  • Hike to Bartolomé's summit, relishing panoramic island views
  • Land at South Plaza for wildlife and cactus forest walks
  • Greet playful sea lions at Isla Lobos and spot boobies
Activity Level: Relaxed
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Baltra | Embark | Santa Cruz Highlands

Arrive at Baltra. Transfer to the boat to meet the guide and get on board. 

In the afternoon, visit the highlands of Santa Cruz and see the Galápagos giant tortoise in its natural surroundings. Explore the area and its incredible underground lava tunnels – some are more than 1km (.6 mi) long! Wander along the volcanic tubes and keep an eye out for the (mainly) nocturnal barn owls that sometimes roost here. 
Activities: Hiking

Day 2: Rabida | Bartolomé Island

Arrive at a red sand beach at Rábida to explore its trails. A short trail leads to a saltwater lagoon; another trail goes past the lagoon to the interior, where the revered palo santo trees grow. (When burned, the branches of this tree give off a pleasing aroma and ward off mosquitoes.) Head back to the beach to see prehistoric-looking pelicans nesting among low-lying bushes – it's a rare treat to watch parent pelicans return with gullets full of fish for the squawking youngsters. Take a panga ride from the beach to a cliff wall that drops off into the water to find one of the best deep-water snorkeling spots on the islands. 
Activities: Hiking, Panga ride, Snorkeling, Paddleboarding, Kayaking

Hike to Bartolomé's summit for a stronger perspective of the islands' not-too-distant volcanic origins, and enjoy a panoramic view – it’s one of the best among the islands! See other Galápagos Islands in the distance as well as Pinnacle Rock, the island’s famous towering landmark. Take the opportunity to swim and snorkel around Pinnacle Rock, one of the most iconic volcanic rock formations on the islands. Home to Galápagos penguins, friendly sea lions, sea turtles, and a huge variety of fish, Bartolomé and its surrounding waters are a fantastic place to explore the natural wonders of the Galápagos.
Activities: Hiking, Panga ride, Snorkeling

Day 3: South Plaza Island | Santa Fe Island

Land at South Plaza in the morning for wildlife spotting opportunities and a walk through the cactus forest. South Plaza is one of the smallest islands in the Galápagos, which has one of the largest populations of land iguanas. Walk along a path through a cactus forest and view a combination of dry and coastal vegetation on this lively island, home to a wide range of fauna, including incredible birdlife. Spot red-billed tropicbirds and indigenous swallow-tailed gulls resting on the cliffs, and sea lions playing in the waters.
Activities: Hiking

In the afternoon, lace up your hiking boots to explore Santa Fe Island's flora and fauna. Trek toward the cliffs along the island's northern shore to see a forest of giant prickly pear cacti (Opuntia). See endemic land iguanas lounging in their favorite forest, and feasting on Opuntia pads and fruit. 
Activities: Hiking, Panga ride, Snorkeling, Paddleboarding, Kayaking

Day 4: Punta Pitt | Cerro Brujo, San Cristobal Island

Morning landing at Punta Pitt on San Cristóbal Island to observe the marine iguanas and seabirds along the beach and enjoy a snorkeling excursion. Enjoy amazing wildlife watching and interesting geological formations on this fascinating expedition. Arrive at a quiet cove on the eastern tip of San Cristóbal to explore Punta Pitt. Made up of volcanic tuff substrate, it's the only site in the Galápagos where it's possible to see three species of boobies and two species of frigatebirds. Snorkel around Punta Pitt Island and spot schools of fish swimming below. On the shore admire the nesting birds and sunbathing sea lions.
Activities: Panga ride, Snorkeling

In the afternoon, land at Cerro Brujo to observe the sea lions, marine iguanas, and seabirds along the beach. 
Activities: Hiking, Panga ride, Snorkeling, Paddleboarding, Kayaking

Day 5: Lobos Island | Disembark | San Cristobal

  • 1 Breakfast
In the morning, visit Isla Lobos and be greeted by sea lions frolicking in the waves. Explore this tiny island by foot and boat for some great wildlife encounters. Take a panga ride to view the sea and shore birds nesting and feeding. Spot a small colony of blue-footed boobies as well as two species of sea lions. 
Activities: Hiking, Panga ride, Snorkeling

Disembark and transfer to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno airport.
 

Ship/Hotel

Hermes Ultra Luxury Cruise

Luxury Aperitif Lounge
Sun Deck Jacuzzi
Sun Deck Lounge Area

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
$8,195 2-3 travelers
Suite King
Upper Deck Suite
Cabin size: 35 m² / 376 sq ft 6 convertible (twin/king size) double suites All suites feature a private balcony, mini bar, walk-in closet, and jacuzzi.
Suite Twin
Main Deck Suite
Cabin size: 35 m² / 376 sq ft 4 convertible (twin/king size) double suites All suites feature a private balcony, mini bar, walk-in closet, and jacuzzi.
Hermes Single Room
Main Deck Single Suite
Single cabin size: 20 m² / 215 sq ft 2 single suites All suites feature a private balcony, mini bar, walk-in closet, and jacuzzi.

Notes

  • Single supplement: 50% if both single cabins are already booked.
  • Child discount is 15% if travelling with 2 adults and under 12 years of age. Discount does not apply on discounted, promotional rates, or peak season.
  • Minimum age aboard is 6 years old. Children under 6 years of age are welcomed in charters and family departures with a waiver signed by their parents. They are and will be held fully responsible and liable for their kids’ safety during the entire cruise.

Child Discount

The minimum age aboard is 6 years old. Child discount is 15% if traveling with 2 adults and under 12 years of age. Discount does not apply on discounted, promotional rates, or peak season.

Children under 12 may receive discounts on Galapagos flight fares and entrance fees. Contact us for details.
Included
  • 4 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 4 Dinners
  • 4 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Laundry Service
  • Bilingual Naturalist Guide 
  • Use of snorkeling equipment, wet suits, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards.
  • Satellite internet
  • Signature Menu by a Renowned Chef
  • Use of Library
  • Use of Hammam
  • Cocktail and Cooking lessons
  • Butler Service
  • Unpacking Service
  • Access to Galapagos Airport VIP Lounge
  • Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic Beverages from Selected Menu
  • National Park Entrance Fee ($30 Ecuadorians / $200 Foreigners, Subject to change)
  • Galapagos Control Transit $20
Excluded
  • Gratuities
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Internal Flights: Mainland Ecuador - Galapagos - Mainland Ecuador: $475-675
  • Massage services
  • Drinks not included in the Menu

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Everything was amazing! The planning with Adventure Life went smoothly. The actual trip was fantastic! One of the best trips I have experienced. The cruise staff members were knowledgeable and attentive. I will be writing more about this on the blog!
Justin Chappelle
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