Day 1: Arrive in Quito – Welcome to the Andes
Your adventure begins in Ecuador’s capital, Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll through its colonial streets, marvel at the architecture, and enjoy panoramic views from the surrounding hills. In the evening, gather for a welcome dinner where your trip leader introduces the journey ahead.
Accommodation: Illa Experience Hotel
Day 2: Fly to San Cristóbal – Meet the Sea Lions of La Lobería
A morning flight takes you to San Cristóbal Island. In the afternoon, visit La Lobería, a beach where sea lions bask on the sand and endemic marine iguanas scuttle across the rocks. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters surrounded by colorful fish, then return to your hotel for dinner.
Accommodation: Hotel Indigo
Day 3: Explore Kicker Rock & Cerro Tijeretas
Board a boat to Kicker Rock, an iconic volcanic formation rising out of the ocean. Snorkel through its channel where hammerhead sharks, eagle rays, and sea turtles thrive. Later, hike to Cerro Tijeretas for sweeping views and visit the Interpretation Center to learn about conservation efforts. End the day with an Ecuadorian cooking class.
Accommodation: Hotel Indigo
Day 4: Fly to Isabela – Snorkel the Lava Arches of Los Túneles
After a short flight to Isabela, set out for Los Túneles, one of the Galapagos’ most fascinating marine sites. Swim through labyrinths of lava arches, spotting Galapagos penguins, sea horses, rays, and reef sharks. It’s a surreal underwater world like no other.
Accommodation: Iguana Crossing Hotel
Day 5: Navigate to Las Tintoreras – Penguins and Marine Iguanas
Cruise to Las Tintoreras, small islets home to colonies of marine iguanas, Galapagos penguins, and white-tip sharks resting in shallow channels. Snorkel alongside turtles and rays, then walk the volcanic trails dotted with blue-footed boobies and starfish.
Accommodation: Iguana Crossing Hotel
Day 6: Discover Santa Cruz Highlands & Darwin Station
Fly to Baltra and drive into the lush Santa Cruz highlands, where giant tortoises roam freely. Visit lava tunnels formed by ancient eruptions and learn about conservation at the Charles Darwin Research Station. Dinner tonight takes place in a unique lava cave, blending gastronomy and nature.
Accommodation: Montemar Luxury Ecolodge
Day 7: Visit Bartolomé or North Seymour – Wildlife Encounters
Depending on availability, set out to Bartolomé Island, where volcanic landscapes and Pinnacle Rock await, with opportunities to snorkel among penguins and parrotfish. Alternatively, explore North Seymour, alive with nesting frigate birds, blue-footed boobies, and playful sea lions. Both options deliver unforgettable wildlife spectacles.
Accommodation: Montemar Luxury Ecolodge
Day 8: Farewell to the Galapagos
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your international flight. Carry home lasting memories and the spirit of the Enchanted Islands.
