Galapagos Southern & Eastern Islands

After landing at Baltra Airport, meet your transfer and board the M/C Monique.

In the afternoon, travel to the highlands of Santa Cruz, where you’ll have the opportunity to see the famous giant tortoises in the wild. These iconic endemic animals are so renowned that they gave the archipelago its name. Birdwatching is also a popular activity in the Santa Cruz highlands, which are home to finches and a variety of other Galapagos birds.
Activities: Walking 
Difficulty: Moderate 

In the morning, explore Champion Islet, a small sanctuary near Floreana Island known for its crystal-clear waters and coral reefs. During a panga ride and snorkeling session, guests may encounter sea turtles, playful sea lions, and vibrant schools of fish. This islet also shelters one of the last populations of the Floreana mockingbird, making it a remarkable site for both wildlife and marine life preservation.

Cormorant Point features two contrasting beaches: one with olive-green sand due to its high content of olivine crystals, and another with pure white sand—commonly known as “Flour Beach”—formed from pulverized coral. The saltwater pond here is a must-see, frequented by one of the archipelago’s largest populations of Galapagos flamingos, as well as other shorebirds such as stilts, white-cheeked pintails, and large-billed flycatchers.

Afterward, guests will take a dinghy ride to Devil’s Crown, an underwater volcanic crater that is almost completely submerged. Only a small portion of the rock formation is visible from above, giving it the appearance of a crown. Snorkelers will discover a vibrant underwater world filled with coral reefs and a myriad of marine species. The site also attracts a variety of birds due to its location in open waters.
Activities and Excursions: Walk, snorkeling, dinghy ride, kayaking/paddleboarding
Difficulty: Moderate

Post Office Bay is a man-made site that offers insight into a remarkable mailing tradition developed by British whalers in the 18th century—one that visitors can still take part in today. The beach here provides excellent snorkeling and kayaking opportunities, and it is also possible to descend into and walk through a lava tube.

Next, take a dinghy ride to the Baroness’s Lookout, a volcanic rock formation named after an Australian baroness who visited the island in the 1930s and is believed to have mysteriously disappeared. A short trail leads to a stunning vantage point with panoramic views of the surrounding mangroves and coastline.
Activities and Excursions: Walking, Snorkeling, dinghy ride, kayaking/paddleboarding.
Difficulty: Easy

Begin your day at Suarez Point, a wildlife-rich site best explored by following the circular walking trail. This memorable walk takes you past the nesting sites of large colonies of Nazca and blue-footed boobies, as well as mockingbirds. Unique to Española Island, the beautiful waved albatross can be seen majestically launching themselves across the ocean from the cliffs, alongside the striking red and green marine iguanas. A geological highlight of this site is its blowholes, capable of shooting water up to 25 meters into the air—perfect for dramatic photos.
Activities and Excursions: Walking  
Difficulty: Moderate 

Spend the afternoon on the soft white sands of Gardner Bay, a pristine beach where sea lions lounge and the ocean invites you in. Whether you choose to swim, snorkel, kayak, or paddleboard, the surrounding turquoise waters offer a perfect opportunity to observe marine life. Just offshore, Gardner and Osborn Islets are home to coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, rays, and playful juvenile sea lions — ideal for a vibrant snorkeling adventure.
Activities and Excursions: Walking, Snorkeling, Dinghy ride, Kayaking/paddleboarding
Difficulty: Moderate 

In the morning, broaden your understanding of the archipelago at the San Cristobal Interpretation Center. This modern facility features engaging exhibits that trace the Galapagos’ geological origins, ecological richness, and complex human history over time. Learn about the unique species that call these islands home and the ongoing conservation initiatives working to protect their fragile ecosystems for generations to come.
Activities and Excursions: Walking
Difficulty: Easy

After this last visit, transfer to San Cristobal airport for your return flight to mainland Ecuador.  Assistance and farewell at the airport.