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Chinese Hat (Sombrero Chino) Island, Galapagos

Central Islands

Example 5 Day Cruise aboard Tip Top IV
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Embark on this 5-day adventure that explores the highlights of the central islands of the Galapagos. Be entertained by the antics of friendly sea lions or get up close and personal with the incredible giant tortoises that make their home here. Indulge yourself in the picturesque beauty of the unique landscape, relax on the beach, do some exploratory snorkeling, and wander to the hidden center of the islands. There are endless possibilities for adventure, making this the most memorable trip ever.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Baltra - Santa Cruz Island

Arrive at the airport in Baltra from the mainland of Ecuador, where a guide will meet you and accompany you to the bus that will be taken to the Itabaca Channel. Cross the channel by barge and then continue to Puerto Ayora by bus and board the yacht. Enjoy a light snack while participating in the first orientation. In the afternoon, take a panga ride to Black Turtle Cove, a series of mangrove-surrounded coves and islets where you can observe spotted eagle rays, marine turtles, white-tipped sharks, and yellow cow-nosed rays. Board the yacht for dinner.

Day 2: Chinese Hat - Rabida

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
After breakfast, start the day with a trip to Sombrero Chino, also known as Chinese Hat, a small island off the coast of Santiago Island. This island got its name from its unique shape that resembles a hat. Here you can observe Galapagos penguins, eagle rays, sea lions, and marine iguanas on the rocky shoreline. This is an excellent snorkeling site and there will be time for those who would like to swim, snorkel, and kayak.

While at Rábida, walk and observe marine iguanas, sea lions, pelicans, blue-footed boobies, masked boobies, and brown pelicans. After a nice walk, arrive at a small saltwater lagoon where pink flamingos can be observed. After this have the opportunity to enjoy a relaxing swim, do some exploratory snorkeling, or enjoy some easy snorkeling.

Day 3: Santiago - Bartolome

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Sullivan Bay is the perfect place to get a feel of the volcanic origin of these islands and will be the first stop of the day. Observe the beauty of the landscape and wildlife that make their homes here. Feel free to continue exploring with some relaxing snorkeling or just take a nice swim. There is much to explore at this beautiful location.

Later in the afternoon, head to Bartolomé Island and hike to the summit where there will be many chances to observe colonies of marine iguanas and lava lizards. On the summit we see an impressive view of the surrounding islands and the splendor of the unique eroded tuff cone of Pinnacle Rock.

Day 4: Santa Fe - South Plaza Island

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Santa Fe Island is a great place to visit the cactus forest and it is home to a colony of land iguanas which are always fun to observe. For those who would like to swim, snorkel, and kayak, this is a great location to do so.

After a pleasant lunch aboard the yacht, enjoy an excursion to South Plaza. Be entertained by the antics of the sea lions who make their home here. Observe land iguanas and many species of tropical birds while taking a walk through a cactus forest.

Day 5: Santa Cruz Island - Baltra

  • 1 Breakfast
After breakfast, head to Las Bachas Beach, a place where we can appreciate a flamingo lagoon. During all walks, your guide will be explaining details about the lives of the birds and animals. Return to the yacht and disembark at 9:00 am. Your guide will then accompany you on the bus ride directly to the airport.

Ship/Hotel

Tip Top IV

Cruise the Galapagos on the Tip Top IV Ship
Cruise the Galapagos on the Tip Top IV Ship
Cruise the Galapagos on the Tip Top IV Ship

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
$3,964
Cruise the Galapagos on the Tip Top IV Ship
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Lower Deck Cabin
6 lower deck with two twin beds that can be converted into king beds. Some rooms are interconnecting, which is a great option for families.
Cruise the Galapagos on the Tip Top IV Ship
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Upper Deck Cabin
4 upper deck cabins with two twin beds that can be converted into king beds.

Child Discount

50% discount for children under the age of 12 at time of Galapagos cruise. Child discounts are conditional and may not apply on certain departures. Please contact us for more information.

Children under 12 may receive discounts on Galapagos flight fares and entrance fees. Contact us for details.
Included
  • 4 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 4 Dinners
  • 4 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • 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
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Galapagos Park Entrance Fee: $100 per adult, $50 per child under 12
  • Internal Flights: Mainland Ecuador - Galapagos - Mainland Ecuador: $475-675
  • Wetsuits are not included but are available to rent on board - $30 short and $35 long size for 4-day tours; $35 short and $40 long size for 5-day tours; $40 short and $50 long size for 8-day tours; $65 short and $75 long size for 11-day tours; and $70 short and $80 long size for 15-day tours.

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The trip was terrific with great planning on your part. Most of the adventures were not mainstream and somewhat off the beaten path which made it especially enjoyable!! We felt taken care of and you all were readily available to respond to questions and issues. I would highly recommend your company and friends have already expressed interest based on our pictures and excitement.
Gale Cantor
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