Galapagos Experience

our Galapagos Adventure begins as you step foot on San Cristobal Island. Upon arrival, you will be warmly greeted by your knowledgeable tour assistant who will guide you to a local restaurant for a delicious lunch and orientation.

Afterward, prepare to embark on an unforgettable kayak experience. We will acquaint ourselves with the kayak equipment before loading our luggage onto our support boat. Our paddling journey will take us from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno to the captivating Manglecito Beach. Throughout the 6 nautical miles, we will pass by Lobos Island, where we will have the unique opportunity to observe the local fauna up close. Blue-footed boobies, brown pelicans, and marine iguanas will grace us with their presence as they rest on the rocks near the coast. From our vantage point in the kayak, we may even witness sea turtles gracefully emerging from the water or engaging in their enchanting mating rituals. As the sun begins to set, we will arrive at our campsite, a hidden gem boasting a pristine white-sanded beach. Curious sea lions will playfully approach, welcoming us to their enchanting realm. Our dedicated team will have already prepared everything for your comfort, including cozy tents with air-pads, soft sheets, and pillows. As the evening unfolds, indulge in a delectable buffet dinner accompanied by a starry sky and a glass of fine wine. The soothing sound of crashing waves will serenade you, reminding you of the privilege you have to revel in this secluded paradise.

As the equatorial sun graces the horizon, the island awakens, offering a breathtaking spectacle of nature's awakening. After a nourishing breakfast, we will embark on a boat ride towards Cerro Brujo or Wizard Hill. Our feet will touch the soft, powdery sand of a pristine beach, where we may witness the incredible sight of sea turtle nests, a testament to the cycle of life in this extraordinary ecosystem. Here, we will befriend black iguanas, frolic with playful sea lions, and marvel at a diverse array of birds, including brown pelicans, brown noddy terns, and the iconic blue-footed boobies, all diving gracefully in search of sustenance. Our journey continues to Kicker Rock, an awe-inspiring rock formation that resembles a slumbering lion. This volcanic tuff cone serves as a majestic perch for blue-footed boobies, masked boobies, and frigate birds. Along the shore, barking or basking sea lions often steal the show with their captivating presence.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant underwater world as we embark on a snorkeling excursion. Prepare to encounter Galapagos and white-tipped reef sharks, and if luck is on our side, we may even catch a glimpse of hammerhead sharks. Keep a keen eye out for the elegant glide of eagle rays, inquisitive green sea turtles, and a kaleidoscope of colorful reef fish and sea stars. In the afternoon, we will return to our campsite at Manglecito, where we will familiarize ourselves with kayaking gear in preparation for our next-day adventure.

Wake to the sound of waves and birds, walk on soft sand, and watch the sunrise from a unique, remote location. After breakfast, kayak along the northern coast of the camp, observing volcanic rock formations, sea turtles, pelicans, and frigatebirds. The two-hour paddle returns to the eco-lodge, where you’ll board a boat to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno for lunch. In the afternoon, hike to Frigate Hill for panoramic views of the island’s coast, then continue to Darwin Bay, named after Charles Darwin. Overnight at a hotel in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.

This morning, embark on a captivating motorboat ride lasting 2-3 hours, transporting you to Santa Cruz Island's enchanting Puerto Ayora. Upon arrival, we will leave our luggage at the hotel and venture into the captivating highlands of Santa Cruz. Prepare to be awe-struck as you come face to face with the magnificent Galapagos Tortoise. These gentle giants thrive in an environment where pristine, native, and endemic vegetation is diligently conserved. Follow the winding trail through this captivating landscape, capturing breathtaking images of the Galapagos Tortoise in all its splendor. Don't forget to have your camera ready! These majestic creatures, renowned for their dome-shaped shells and colossal forms, can often be found partially submerged in mud ponds, engaging in a battle against skin parasites or regulating their body temperature on warm, sun-kissed days. After forging a connection with these incredible beings, delve deeper into the island's volcanic origins by exploring the intriguing Lava Tunnel.

Today's adventure promises not only an exhilarating encounter with nature but also a captivating cultural experience. Over two decades ago, in a bid to protect Galapagos' marine wildlife, we initiated a project to inspire fishermen to temporarily leave their traditional trade. As a result, they now offer our esteemed guests the opportunity to embark on a navigable tour alongside them. A skilled fisherman and his crew will warmly welcome you aboard their speedboats, sharing their life experiences at sea as they navigate towards our visitors' site.

Our special crew will guide you to the sandy beaches of Bahia Ballena, an ocean inlet where Galapagos sea lions and marine iguanas bask on carpetweed and lava rocks. Here, you will marvel at the diversity of Darwin's finches and embark on an enthralling snorkeling expedition through a vibrant underwater world teeming with tropical marine life. As you explore the depths, reaching up to thirty feet, you will encounter Pacific green sea turtles and an array of long-tailed stingrays, each displaying their unique shape and sizes. Depending on sea conditions and your interest, the crew may even demonstrate the art of catch and release, showcasing the marvelous fish that thrive in these abundant waters. As the tour draws to a close, you will have not only observed the extraordinary marine wildlife of the Galapagos and enjoyed the beauty of a pristine beach but also gained insight into the lifestyle of the local community. Moreover, you can take pride in knowing that your participation has contributed to the preservation of Galapagos' wildlife and supported a local family. Upon returning to Puerto Ayora, you will have time to freshen up before savoring a delightful dinner and retiring to your hotel for the night.

In the morning, drive across Santa Cruz Island to Baltra Airport. Upon arrival, a local assistant will provide check-in assistance for the flight to the mainland.