SATURDAY: Arrive Baltra Airport & Chinese Hat

You will be met upon arrival and transferred to the boat. On board you will receive your cabin assignment and lunch will be served.

Chinese Hat: Sombrero Chino got it’s name from the shape this volcanic rock islet takes.  With a maximum visiting capacity it offers rare, up close viewing of Galapagos wildlife and well preserved remnants of fragile volcanic rock that cannot be found in such a unique condition anywhere else.  The islet is home to a colony of sea lions on the white coral sand beach.  Here you can see American Oystercatchers, Galapagos Penguins swimming along the shores, and Sally-Lightfoot Crabs in bright contrast to the dark volcanic rock.

Highlights: American Oystercatchers, Sally-Lightfoot Crabs, Sea Lion colonies, Galapagos Penguins, Lava Lizards, Marine Iguanas, and White-Tipped Reef Sharks.
Possible Activities: A hike of 400 meters starting at the beach rising up to160 feet exploring the different volcanic remnants and rare plant life along with amazing views;  Snorkeling among White-Tipped Reef Sharks and various tropical fish.
Type of Landing: Wet Landing
Difficulty: Moderate

Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

SUNDAY: Isabela Island: Vicente Roca Point & Fernandina Island: Espinosa Point

Isabela Island, Vicente Roca Point: The largest in the archipelago, this seahorse-shaped island is also one of the youngest and most volcanically active. The morning visit is to Vicente Roca Point. Comprised of two separate coves, this site is a large bay with spectacular sea life. Keep an eye out for seahorses, sea turtles, and the strange yet fascinating Mola-mola (sunfish).

Activities: Snorkeling & panga ride
Difficulty: Easy/moderate
Type of Landing: No landing
Highlights & Animals: Penguins, Blue-footed Boobies, terns, Nazca Boobies, two types of sea lions. Snorkeling: sea turtles, rays and puffer fish

Fernandina Island, Espinosa Point: No foreign species have ever invaded Fernandina Island and therefore it is one of the world’s most pristine island ecosystems. The volcano “La Cumbre” dominates the landspace with lava fields reaching the ocean. The island´s highlight features the Flightless Cormorant nesting site. This area provides a great opportunity to see the Galapagos Hawk.

Highlights: Flightless cormorant, marine iguanas, AA lava, sea lions, penguins, active volcano “la Cumbre”
Activities: Hike (1.5 miles / 2 km)
Type of Landing: Dry and slippery at low tide
Difficulty: Moderate

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

MONDAY: Isabela Island: Tagus Cove & Urbina Bay

Isabela Island, Tagus Cove: Tagus Cove is located across from Fernandina Island, near the Bolivar Channel dividing the two islands. This spot has been frequented by ships since the 1800s, using the area as an anchorage site. Trails winding by Lake Darwin up to a ridge display wonderful views. Punta Tortuga, just north of Tagus Cove, is another lovely beach surrounded by mangroves.

Highlights: Penguins, Flightless Cormorants, Darwin Volcano & Lake
Activities: Long hike, snorkeling, dinghy ride
Type of Landing: Dry landing
Difficulty: Moderate/Difficult

Isabela Island, Urbina Bay: Urbina Bay is located at the base of Alcedo Volcano on the west coast, between Tagus Cove and Elizabeth Bay. This area experienced a major uplift in 1954, causing the land to rise over 16 feet. The coast expanded half a mile out, leaving marine life stranded on the new shore. This area is also a great place for snorkeling.

Highlights: Land iguanas (the biggest in Galapagos), hawks, coral reef, giant tortoises; snorkeling: turtles, rays, tropical fish
Activities: Snorkeling, dinghy ride & hike, 2 trails: short (0.6mi/1 km), long (1.9mi/3km)
Type of Landing: Wet landing
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

TUESDAY: Isabela Island: Elizabeth Bay & Moreno Point

Isabela Island, Elizabeth Bay: Elizabeth Bay is located on the east coast of Isabela Island. The bay contains many islets, which can be visited by dinghy. Penguins and Blue-footed Boobies can be spotted on the rocky islets. With an abundance of marine life and clear water, the area is perfect for snorkeling and viewing schools of colorful fish, sea lions, and perhaps even sharks.

Highlights: Mangrove forest (unique in Galapagos), sea turtles, penguins, rays, herons, sea lions.
Activities: Two-hour dinghy ride
Type of Landing: No landing
Difficulty: Easy

Isabela Island, Moreno Point: Moreno Point is located near Elizabeth Bay on the west coast of Isabela Island. The plethora of birds seen during a dinghy ride along the striking rocky shores or a hike along path through lava rock leading to tide pools and mangroves create a birdwatcher’s delight. In the tide pools green sea turtles or white-tip sharks can be spotted.

Highlights: Flamingos, gallinules, Pintail ducks, turtles, whitetip reef sharks
Activities: Snorkeling, dinghy ride & hike (1.2mi/2km)
Type of Landing: Dry landing
Difficulty: Moderate/Difficult

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WEDNESDAY: Santa Cruz Island: Darwin Station & Highlands

Santa Cruz Island, Darwin Station: The Charles Darwin Research Station is home to turtles ranging from 3-inches (new hatchlings) to 4-feet long. Sub-species of turtles interact with one another and many of the older turtles are accustomed to humans, stretching out their heads for a pet. The babies are kept until they are about four years old and strong enough to survive on their own.

Highlights: Giant Tortoises in captivation
Activities: Walking
Type of Landing: Dry landing
Difficulty: Easy

Santa Cruz Island, Highlands: Reached by bus from Puerto Ayora, the highlands of Santa Cruz are a deep green, contrasting beautifully with much of the dry, lower islands. The dominant vegetation in the highlands is the Scalesia trees, creating the lush green color. The lava tubes, over half a mile long, are underground and walking through them is a unique, surreal experience.

Highlights: Lava tunnels, wild turtles, tortoises breeding center.
Activities: Hike (1.5 mi/ 2 ½ km)
Type of Landing: Dry landing
Difficulty: Moderate (long)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

THURSDAY: South Plazas Island & Santa Fe Island

South Plazas Island: In the morning, you will head to South Plaza Island. This small island with steep cliffs was formed by rising lava and is now covered by Opuntia cacti. It is also home to one of the largest sea lion colonies as well as colorful yellow and red land iguanas. The most characteristic plant is the Sesuvium. During the rainy season its color is a greenish to yellowish tone and in the dry season (end of June through January) a bright red.

Highlights: Land iguanas, sea lion colony, Audubon´s shearwaters, Swallow-tailed Gulls, Nazca Boobies, amazing landscape with cliffs
Activities: Hike (2 ½ km /1.5 mi)
Type of Landing: Dry landing
Difficulty: Moderate

Santa Fe Island: Santa Fe (Barrington) is home to the small picturesque bay and anchorage on the island’s northeast coast. The bay has two visitor trails, one leading to a scenic viewpoint atop a cliff, and the other spanning from a small beach to a tall prickly pear cactus forest.

Highlights: Land Iguanas, giant tunas
Activities: Hiking
Type of Landing: Dry landing
Difficulty: Moderate

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

FRIDAY: Española Island: Suarez Point & Gardner Bay

Española Island, Suarez Point: This area is great for spotting Blue-footed Boobies, albatrosses and Nazca Boobies. A beautiful site on the ocean front, the large Waved Albatrosses use the cliff as a launching pad. The famous attraction is the magnificent blowhole, spurting water high into the air. This site presents wonderful photograph opportunities.

Highlights: Hood Mockingbird, Nazca Boobies, Waved Albatross, Red-billed tropicbirds, lava lizards, Galapagos Hawk, Blue-footed Boobies, blow hole, amazing landscape
Activities: Hike (1.9 mi/3 km)
Type of Landing: Dry landing
Difficulty: Difficult

Española Island, Gardner Bay: Gardner Bay, on the eastern side of the island, is the breeding site of nearly all of the world´s 12,000 pairs of Waved Albatrosses. It has an ample white sandy beach with a myriad of sea lions, perfect for relaxing. Its rocky shores make this site a great place for diving and snorkeling.

Highlights: White sandy beach, sea lions, mockingbirds; snorkeling: colorful fish, sea lion nursery
Activities: Snorkeling, dinghy ride, kayaking, short hike of (0.6 mi/1 km)
Type of Landing: Wet landing
Difficulty: Easy

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

SATURDAY: San Cristobal Island: Interpretation Center & Galapaguera & Depart

San Cristobal Island, Interpretation Center & Galapaguera: The Interpretation Center was opened in 1998 as a phase of the project “Interpretation and Environment Education Project.” Visitors enjoy expositions on natural history, human history, and conservation. The conservation efforts represent the movement to protect the wildlife and natural environment through means of population and tourist control. The Interpretation Center has an outdoor stadium, audio-visual equipment, and meeting rooms.

Highlights: Giant tortoises in captivity, land birds
Activities: Short walk
Type of Landing: Dry landing
Difficulty: Easy

Afterwards you will be transferred to the Baltra Airport for your flight back to mainland Ecuador.

Meals Included: Breakfast

SATURDAY: Arrive San Cristobal Airport & Lobos Island & Kicker Rock

You will be met upon arrival and transferred to the boat. On board you will receive your cabin assignment and lunch will be served.

San Cristobal Island, Lobos Island: The name of this island means ¨Sea Lion Island¨. This appropriately named island is ripe with noisy, frolicking, jolly sea lions who will welcome you to their home with open, well, fins. This island also offers great snorkeling opportunities as well as the chance to see Blue-footed and Nazca Boobies.

Highlights: Snorkeling with sea lions, frigatebirds, Blue-footed Boobies
Activities: Short hike (less than 0.6 mi/1 km), dinghy ride and/or snorkeling.
Type of Landing: Dry landing
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate

San Cristobal Island, Kicker Rock: This striking rock formation is located a couple hours off the western shore of San Cristobal. Jutting out of the water, the rocks stand vertically at hundreds of feet above the ocean divided by a small channel. Although there are no landing areas, kayaking and scuba diving allow visitors to spot a variety of marine life.

Highlights: Great snorkeling: sharks, tropical fish, turtles, manta rays (occ.), hammerhead sharks, spectacular rock formations; sea birds: Blue-footed Boobies, Nazca Boobies & frigatebirds.
Activities: Snorkeling & dinghy ride
Type of Landing: No landing
Difficulty: Easy

Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

SUNDAY: San Cristobal Island: Pitt Point & Witch Hill

San Cristobal Island, Pitt Point: Pitt Point, situated on the north-eastern tip of the island, hosts frigatebirds, storm petrels, and all three types of Booby Birds: the Nazca, Blue-footed and Red-footed Boobies. A steep trail goes up a cliff and through a ravine leading visitors to an area with an abundance of birds. This site is also great for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Highlights: Wonderful landscape, sea lion colony, three possible species of Boobies.
Activities: Dinghy ride, snorkeling, kayaking & hike (1.5 mi/2.5 km)
Type of Landing: Wet landing
Difficulty: Moderate/Difficult

San Cristobal Island, Witch Hill: Located on the northern coast, this eroded hill and its surroundings present one of the most picturesque beaches in the Galapagos with its white powdery sand and the abundance of animals. Wildlife includes sea turtles, rays, and various types of Booby Birds. The clear water provides an excellent opportunity for enjoying swimming and snorkeling.

Highlights: Beautiful rock formations, sea lions, shore birds, finches and mockingbirds; snorkeling: nice tropical fish, anemones, sponge coral
Activities: Hike, dinghy ride, snorkeling & kayaking
Type of Landing: Wet landing
Difficulty: Easy walk along the beach

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

MONDAY: Floreana Island: Post Office Bay, Cormorant Point & Devil’s Crown

Floreana Island, Post Office Bay: In the 18th century whalers passing through the islands placed a wooden barrel on Floreana Island for use as an unofficial mail box. The tradition continues today as visitors leave addressed postcards in the barrel and sort through left mail to deliver at home.

Highlights: Barrel Post Office, nice sandy beach
Activities: Short hike (less than 0.6 mi/1 km) & snorkeling
Type of Landing: Wet landing
Difficulty: Easy

Floreana Island, Cormorant Point: This site hosts a large flamingo lagoon where other birds such as common stilts, White-cheeked Pintails can also be seen. The beaches on this island are distinct: The “Green Beach” named so due to its green color, which comes from a high percentage of olivine crystals in the sand, and the “Four Sand Beach” composed of white coral.

Highlights: Flamingos, green-colored beach
Activities: Dinghy ride & hike (1.2 mi /2 km)
Type of Landing: Wet landing
Difficulty: Easy

Floreana Island, Devil’s Crown: One of the best snorkeling sites in the Galapagos, this volcanic crater has been eroded by the waves leaving the northern and southern sides poking out of the water. The coral reef in the middle is perfect for attracting marine life. Snorkelers enjoy the variety of marine life and exciting currents that rush through the crown, creating an exhilarating experience.

Highlights: The best snorkeling site in Galapagos Islands with sharks, rays, rock formations, lots of tropical fish
Activities: Snorkeling
Type of Landing: No landing
Difficulty: Moderate/Difficult

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

TUESDAY: Santa Cruz Island: Black Turtle Cove & Bartolome Island

Santa Cruz Island, Black Turtle Cove: Black Turtle Cove is situated in the northern part of Santa Cruz. This inlet is surrounded by mangroves and is only accessible by dinghy. The shallow cove is a safe haven for young marine life. Blacktip and whitetip reef sharks, sea turtles, and a variety of rays are often spotted here.

Highlights: Hammerhead shark babies, rays, sea turtles, sea birds
Activities: Dinghy ride
Type of Landing: No landing
Difficulty: Easy

Bartolome Island, Pinnacle Rock: Home of the famous Pinnacle Rock, Bartholomew consists of an extinct volcano with a variety of red, orange, black and even green volcanic formations. A trail of stairs leads to the summit of the volcano, boasting one o the best views of the islands. The beach is perfect for snorkeling and possible sightings of the Galapagos Penguin.

Highlights: Pinnacle rock, panoramic view, moonlike landscape, penguins, pioneer plants, lava cactus; snorkeling: penguins, reef sharks, rays, and great colorful fish.
Activities: Dinghy ride, snorkeling & hiking (1.2 mi/ 2km)
Type of Landing: Dry and wet landings
Difficulty: Moderate/difficult. Walk up to the top of volcano 114 meters, 375 wooden steps

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WEDNESDAY: Genovesa Island: Darwin Bay & El Barranco

Genovesa Island, Darwin Bay: This white-sand coral beach heads a half mile trail (.75km) that winds through mangroves filled with land birds. Nazca Boobies, Red-footed Boobies, and Swallow-tailed Gulls can be spotted here. Further down the path are tidal pools where sea lions swim playfully. At the end is a spectacular view off a cliff.

Highlights: Nazca Boobies, Red- footed Boobies, Swallow-tailed Gulls, mangroves, coral pebbles beach, snorkeling: rays, colorful reef fish and hammerhead sharks
Activities: Hiking (0.9 mi/1.5 km), snorkeling, kayaking & dinghy ride
Type of Landing: Wet landing
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate

Genovesa Island, El Barranco: Also known as Prince Phillip’s Steps, El Barranco’s steep, rocky paths leads up to a high cliff-face. A marvelous view can be appreciated from here. This site is also home to Palo Santo vegetation as well as Red-footed Boobies, Short-eared Lava Owls, Galapagos Swallows, and Galapagos Doves.

Highlights: Red-footed Boobies, Short-eared Lava Owls, storm-petrels, Galapagos Doves
Activities: Hiking (0.9 mi/2 km)
Type of Landing: Dry, difficult landing
Difficulty: Moderate

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

THURSDAY: Santiago Island: Espumilla Beach, Buccaneer Cove & Egas Point

Santiago Island, Espumilla Beach: Espumilla Beach is a popular place for marine iguanas and Sally Lightfoot Crabs. The crabs attract the hunting herons, performing the dance of predator and prey. With an abundance of marine life including octopi, moray eel, and shark, snorkeling is highly recommended.

Highlights: Snorkeling
Activities: Snorkeling and swimming
Type of Landing: Wet landing
Difficulty: Easy

Santiago Island, Buccaneer Cove: Buccaneer Cove is a testament to the fact that Santiago Island was once a refuge for British buccaneers. These pirates would anchor in the protected bay to make repairs and stock up on tortoise meat among other things. The steep cliffs, where hundreds of seabirds perch in front of the dark red sand beach, are a magnificent site.

Highlights: Sea birds, historical site, snorkeling, rock formations
Activities: Short walk along the beach (less than 0.6 mi/1 km)
Type of Landing: Wet landing
Difficulty: Easy

Santiago Island, Egas Point: Also known as James Bay, Egas Port is home to the curious Galapagos Hawks and Quick-footed Galapagos Lava Lizards. The trail leads to a coastline with gorgeous tide pools and grottos full of fauna. Here the Galapagos Fur Sea Lions bathe in the sun. This is also a great snorkeling site.

Highlights: Fur sea lions, Galapagos Sea Lions, tidal pools and “grottos”, Galapagos Hawk, oyster catchers, marine iguanas, finches; snorkeling: reef sharks, turtles, rays, nice underwater formations.
Activities: Snorkeling, hiking (1.25 mi/2 km)
Type of Landing: Wet landing
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

FRIDAY: North Seymour Island & Santa Cruz Island: Highlands

North Seymour Island: Galapagos Sea Lions, Blue-footed Boobies and Magnificent Frigatebirds are abundant on North Seymour Island. The island was formed by a series of submarine lavas containing layers of sediment that were uplifted by tectonic activity. The island is characterized by its arid vegetation zone.

Highlights: Land & marine iguanas, frigatebirds, Blue-footed Boobies, sea lions; snorkeling: Rays, reef shark, fish, garden eels.
Activities: Snorkeling, dinghy ride & hiking (1.5 mi/2.5 km)
Type of Landing: Dry landing
Difficulty: Moderate/Difficult

Santa Cruz Island, Highlands: Reached by bus from Puerto Ayora, the highlands of Santa Cruz are a deep green, contrasting beautifully with much of the dry, lower islands. The dominant vegetation in the highlands is the Scalesia trees, creating the lush green color. The lava tubes, over half a mile long, are underground and walking through them is a unique, surreal experience.

Highlights: Lava tunnels, wild turtles, tortoises breeding center
Activities: Hike (1.5 mi/ 2 ½ km)
Type of Landing: Dry landing
Difficulty: Moderate (long)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

SATURDAY: Mosquera Islet & Depart Baltra Airport

Mosquera Islet: Located between the islands of Baltra and North Seymour, this reef of rocks and coral (the result of an uprising) is only 160 meters across at its narrowest width. This island has one of the largest populations of sea lions and is home to many shorebirds. There have been occasional reports at this site of Orcas feeding on sea lions.

Highlights: Orcas, Sea lions, shore birds
Activities: Dinghy ride
Type of Landing: No landing
Difficulty: Easy

Afterwards you will be transferred to the Baltra Airport for your flight back to mainland Ecuador.

Meals Included: Breakfast

SATURDAY: Arrive Baltra Airport & Sombrero Chino Island

Arrival in Baltra airport and transfer to the boat. Briefing onboard about the boat and the island.

Sombrero Chino: Our first landing is on a beautiful crescent-shaped beach, home to sea lions and Sally Lightfoot-crabs, Galapagos penguins, Lava lizards, and Marine iguanas. We start our hike from the beach and climb a short distance to explore the different volcanic remains and rare plant life that also exist on this island. Afterwards you’ll have time to snorkel with various tropic fish and white-tipped reef sharks.

Type of Landing: Wet
Difficulty: Moderate

Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

SUNDAY: Isabela Island: Vicente Roca Point & Fernandina Island: Espinosa Point 

Isabela Island: Vicente Roca Point: The morning visit is to Vicente Roca Point. Comprised of two separate coves, this site is a large bay with spectacular sea life. Keep an eye out for seahorses, sea turtles, and the strange yet fascinating Mola-mola (sunfish).

Highlights: Penguins, blue-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, two types of sea lions, sea turtles, rays and puffer fish.
Activities: Snorkeling and panga ride
Type of Landing: No landing
Difficulty: Easy / Moderate

Fernandina Island: Espinosa Point: Crossing the Bolivar Channel that divides Isabela and Fernandina Islands, we will land at Espinosa Point. After walking past a colony of marine iguanas and a group of sea lions, we’ll reach the island’s highlight: the Flightless cormorant nesting site. This area also provides a great opportunity to see the Galapagos Hawk.

Highlights: Flightless cormorant, Marine iguanas, A’A lava, sea lions, penguins, active volcano “La Cumber”
Activities: Hike (1.2 mi / 2 km)
Type of Landing: Dry and slippery at low tide
Difficulty: Moderate

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

MONDAY: Isabela Island: Tagus Cove & Urbina Bay

Isabela Island: Tagus Cove: Tagus Cove is located across from Fernandina Island, near the Bolivar Channel dividing the two islands. This spot has been frequented by ships since the 1800s, using the area as an anchorage site. Trails winding by Lake Darwin up to a ridge display wonderful views. Punta Tortuga, just north of Tagus Cove, is another lovely beach surrounded by mangroves.

Highlights: Penguins, Flightless cormorants, Darwin Volcano & Lake
Activities: Long hike, snorkeling, dinghy ride
Type of Landing: Dry landing
Difficulty: Moderate / Difficult

Isabela Island: Urbina Bay: Urbina Bay is located at the base of Alcedo Volcano on the west coast, between Tagus Cove and Elizabeth Bay. This area experienced a major uplift in 1954, causing the land to rise over 16 feet. The coast expanded half a mile out, leaving marine life stranded on the new shore. This area is also a great place for snorkeling.

Highlights: Land iguanas (the largest in the Galapagos), hawks, coral reef, giant tortoises, snorkeling, sea turtles, rays & tropical fish
Activities: Snorkeling, dinghy ride & hike, 2 trails (short: .6 mi / 1km) (long: 1.9 mi / 3 km)
Type of Landing: Wet landing
Difficulty: Easy / Moderate

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

TUESDAY: Isabela Island: Elizabeth Bay & Moreno Point

Isabela Island: Elizabeth Bay: Elizabeth Bay is located on the east coast of Isabela Island. As you enter the bay, hawks soar overhead and schools of fish can be seen swimming beneath the surface. The bay contains many islets, which can be visited by dinghy. Penguins and Blue-footed Boobies can be spotted on the rocky islets. With an abundance of marine life and clear water, the area is perfect for snorkeling and viewing schools of colorful fish, sea lions, and perhaps even sharks.

Highlights: Mangrove forest, sea turtles, penguins, rays, herons, sea lions
Activities: Two-hour dinghy ride
Type of Landing: No landing
Difficulty: Easy

Isabela Island: Moreno Point: Moreno Point is located near Elizabeth Bay on the west coast of Isabela Island. The plethora of birds seen during a dinghy ride along the striking rocky shores or a hike along path through lava rock leading to tide pools and mangroves create a birdwatcher’s delight. In the tide pools green sea turtles or white-tip sharks can be spotted.

Highlights: Flamingoes, gallinules, Pintail ducks, sea turtles, white tipped reef sharks
Activities: Snorkeling, dinghy ride & hike (1.2 mi / 2 km)
Type of Landing: Dry landing
Difficulty: Moderate / Difficult

Meals Included: Breakfast

WEDNESDAY: Santa Cruz: Darwin Station & Highlands

Santa Cruz Island: Darwin Station: The Charles Darwin Research Station is home to turtles ranging from 3-inches (new hatchlings) to 4-feet long. Sub-species of turtles interact with one another and many of the older turtles are accustomed to humans, stretching out their heads for a pet. The babies are kept until they are about four years old and strong enough to survive on their own.

Highlights: Giant tortoises & land iguanas in captivation
Activities: Walking
Type of Landing: Dry landing
Difficulty: Easy

Santa Cruz Island: Highlands: The highlands are located in the northern part of the island and can reach elevation of up to 1500 m. Here at the Highlands, you can walk along a path, observing the hills, ferns, volcanoes, and rich wildlife. This area is home to giant tortoises, forest, mockingbirds, Bahama ducklings, White-cheeked Pintail ducklings, Darwin finches, and many other species.

Highlights: Wild tortoises
Activities: Hike (1.5 mi / 2.5 km)
Type of Landing: Dry landing
Difficulty: Moderate (long)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

THURSDAY: South Plazas Island & Depart

South Plazas Island: In the morning, you will head to South Plaza Island. South Plazas has one of the largest populations of land iguanas in the Galapagos. This small island with steep cliffs was formed by rising lava and is now covered by Opuntia cacti. It is also home to one of the largest sea lion colonies as well as colorful yellow and red land iguanas. The most characteristic plant is the Sesuvium. During the rainy season its color is a greenish to yellowish tone and in the dry season (end of June through January) a bright red.

Highlights: Land iguanas, sea lion colony, Audobon’s shearwaters, Swallow-tailed gulls, Nazca boobies, amazing landscapes with cliffs.
Activities: Hike (1.5 mi / 2.5 km)
Type of Landing: Dry landing
Difficulty: Moderate

Afterwards you will be transferred to the Baltra Airport for your flight back to mainland Ecuador.

Meals Included: Breakfast

THURSDAY: Arrive Baltra Airport & Santa Fe Island

You will be met upon arrival and transferred to the boat. On board you will receive your cabin assignment and lunch will be served.

Santa Fe Island: Santa Fe (Barrington) is home to the small picturesque bay and anchorage on the island’s northeast coast. The bay has two visitor trails, one leading to a scenic viewpoint atop a cliff, and the other spanning from a small beach to a tall prickly pear cactus forest.

Highlights: Land Iguanas, giant tunas
Activities: Hiking
Type of Landing: Dry landing
Difficulty: Moderate

Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

FRIDAY: Española Island: Suarez Point & Gardner Bay

Española Island, Suarez Point: This area is great for spotting Blue-footed Boobies, albatrosses and Nazca Boobies. A beautiful site on the ocean front, the large Waved Albatrosses use the cliff as a launching pad. The famous attraction is the magnificent blowhole, spurting water high into the air. This site presents wonderful photograph opportunities.

Highlights: Hood Mockingbird, Nazca Boobies, Waved Albatross, Red-billed tropicbirds, lava lizards, Galapagos Hawk, Blue-footed Boobies, blow hole, amazing landscape
Activities: Hike (1.9 mi/3 km)
Type of Landing: Dry landing
Difficulty: Difficult

Española Island, Gardner Bay: Gardner Bay, on the eastern side of the island, is the breeding site of nearly all of the world´s 12,000 pairs of Waved Albatrosses. It has an ample white sandy beach with a myriad of sea lions, perfect for relaxing. Its rocky shores make this site a great place for diving and snorkeling.

Highlights: White sandy beach, sea lions, mockingbirds; snorkeling: colorful fish, sea lion nursery
Activities: Snorkeling, dinghy ride, kayaking, short hike of (0.6 mi/1 km)
Type of Landing: Wet landing
Difficulty: Easy

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

SATURDAY: San Cristobal Island: Interpretation Center, Galapaguera, Lobos Island, & Kicker Rock

San Cristobal Island, Interpretation Center & Galapaguera: The Interpretation Center was opened in 1998 as a phase of the project “Interpretation and Environment Education Project.” Visitors enjoy expositions on natural history, human history, and conservation. The conservation efforts represent the movement to protect the wildlife and natural environment through means of population and tourist control. The Interpretation Center has an outdoor stadium, audio-visual equipment, and meeting rooms.

Highlights: Giant tortoises in captivity, land birds
Activities: Short walk
Type of Landing: Dry landing
Difficulty: Easy

San Cristobal Island, Lobos Island: The name of this island means ¨Sea Lion Island¨. This appropriately named island is ripe with noisy, frolicking, jolly sea lions who will welcome you to their home with open, well, fins. This island also offers great snorkeling opportunities as well as the chance to see Blue-footed and Nazca Boobies.

Highlights: Snorkeling with sea lions, frigatebirds, Blue-footed Boobies
Activities: Short hike (less than 0.6 mi/1 km), dinghy ride and/or snorkeling.
Type of Landing: Dry landing
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate

San Cristobal Island, Kicker Rock: This striking rock formation is located a couple hours off the western shore of San Cristobal. Jutting out of the water, the rocks stand vertically at hundreds of feet above the ocean divided by a small channel. Although there are no landing areas, kayaking and scuba diving allow visitors to spot a variety of marine life.

Highlights: Great snorkeling: sharks, tropical fish, turtles, manta rays (occ.), hammerhead sharks, spectacular rock formations; sea birds: Blue-footed Boobies, Nazca Boobies & frigatebirds.
Activities: Snorkeling & dinghy ride
Type of Landing: No landing
Difficulty: Easy

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

SUNDAY: San Cristobal Island: Pitt Point & Witch Hill

San Cristobal Island, Pitt Point: Pitt Point, situated on the north-eastern tip of the island, hosts frigatebirds, storm petrels, and all three types of Booby Birds: the Nazca, Blue-footed and Red-footed Boobies. A steep trail goes up a cliff and through a ravine leading visitors to an area with an abundance of birds. This site is also great for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Highlights: Wonderful landscape, sea lion colony, three possible species of Boobies.
Activities: Dinghy ride, snorkeling, kayaking & hike (1.5 mi/2.5 km)
Type of Landing: Wet landing
Difficulty: Moderate/Difficult

San Cristobal Island, Witch Hill: Located on the northern coast, this eroded hill and its surroundings present one of the most picturesque beaches in the Galapagos with its white powdery sand and the abundance of animals. Wildlife includes sea turtles, rays, and various types of Booby Birds. The clear water provides an excellent opportunity for enjoying swimming and snorkeling.

Highlights: Beautiful rock formations, sea lions, shore birds, finches and mockingbirds; snorkeling: nice tropical fish, anemones, sponge coral
Activities: Hike, dinghy ride, snorkeling & kayaking
Type of Landing: Wet landing
Difficulty: Easy walk along the beach

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

MONDAY: Floreana Island: Post Office Bay, Cormorant Point & Devil’s Crown

Floreana Island, Post Office Bay: In the 18th century whalers passing through the islands placed a wooden barrel on Floreana Island for use as an unofficial mail box. The tradition continues today as visitors leave addressed postcards in the barrel and sort through left mail to deliver at home.

Highlights: Barrel Post Office, nice sandy beach
Activities: Short hike (less than 0.6 mi/1 km) & snorkeling
Type of Landing: Wet landing
Difficulty: Easy

Floreana Island, Cormorant Point: This site hosts a large flamingo lagoon where other birds such as common stilts, White-cheeked Pintails can also be seen. The beaches on this island are distinct: The “Green Beach” named so due to its green color, which comes from a high percentage of olivine crystals in the sand, and the “Four Sand Beach” composed of white coral.

Highlights: Flamingos, green-colored beach
Activities: Dinghy ride & hike (1.2 mi /2 km)
Type of Landing: Wet landing
Difficulty: Easy

Floreana Island, Devil’s Crown: One of the best snorkeling sites in the Galapagos, this volcanic crater has been eroded by the waves leaving the northern and southern sides poking out of the water. The coral reef in the middle is perfect for attracting marine life. Snorkelers enjoy the variety of marine life and exciting currents that rush through the crown, creating an exhilarating experience.

Highlights: The best snorkeling site in Galapagos Islands with sharks, rays, rock formations, lots of tropical fish
Activities: Snorkeling
Type of Landing: No landing
Difficulty: Moderate/Difficult

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

TUESDAY: Santa Cruz Island: Black Turtle Cove & Depart Baltra Airport

Santa Cruz Island, Black Turtle Cove: Black Turtle Cove is situated in the northern part of Santa Cruz. This inlet is surrounded by mangroves and is only accessible by dinghy. The shallow cove is a safe haven for young marine life. Blacktip and whitetip reef sharks, sea turtles, and a variety of rays are often spotted here.

Highlights: Hammerhead shark babies, rays, sea turtles, sea birds
Activities: Dinghy ride
Type of Landing: No landing
Difficulty: Easy

Afterwards you will be transferred to the Baltra Airport for your flight back to mainland Ecuador.

Meals Included: Breakfast

TUESDAY: Arrive at Baltra Airport & Bartolome Island

You will be met upon arrival and transferred to the boat. On board you will receive your cabin assignment and lunch will be served.

Bartolome Island, Pinnacle Rock: Home of the famous Pinnacle Rock, Bartholomew consists of an extinct volcano with a variety of red, orange, black and even green volcanic formations. A trail of stairs leads to the summit of the volcano, boasting one o the best views of the islands. The beach is perfect for snorkeling and possible sightings of the Galapagos Penguin.

Highlights: Pinnacle rock, panoramic view, moonlike landscape, penguins, pioneer plants, lava cactus; snorkeling: penguins, reef sharks, rays, and great colorful fish.
Activities: Dinghy ride, snorkeling & hiking (1.2 mi/ 2km)
Type of Landing: Dry and wet landings
Difficulty: Moderate/difficult. Walk up to the top of volcano 114 meters, 375 wooden steps

Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

WEDNESDAY: Genovesa Island: Darwin Bay & El Barranco

Genovesa Island, Darwin Bay: This white-sand coral beach heads a half mile trail (.75km) that winds through mangroves filled with land birds. Nazca Boobies, Red-footed Boobies, and Swallow-tailed Gulls can be spotted here. Further down the path are tidal pools where sea lions swim playfully. At the end is a spectacular view off a cliff.

Highlights: Nazca Boobies, Red- footed Boobies, Swallow-tailed Gulls, mangroves, coral pebbles beach, snorkeling: rays, colorful reef fish and hammerhead sharks
Activities: Hiking (0.9 mi/1.5 km), snorkeling, kayaking & dinghy ride
Type of Landing: Wet landing
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate

Genovesa Island, El Barranco: Also known as Prince Phillip’s Steps, El Barranco’s steep, rocky paths leads up to a high cliff-face. A marvelous view can be appreciated from here. This site is also home to Palo Santo vegetation as well as Red-footed Boobies, Short-eared Lava Owls, Galapagos Swallows, and Galapagos Doves.

Highlights: Red-footed Boobies, Short-eared Lava Owls, storm-petrels, Galapagos Doves
Activities: Hiking (0.9 mi/2 km)
Type of Landing: Dry, difficult landing
Difficulty: Moderate

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

THURSDAY: Santiago Island: Espumilla Beach, Buccaneer Cove & Egas Point

Santiago Island, Espumilla Beach: Espumilla Beach is a popular place for marine iguanas and Sally Lightfoot Crabs. The crabs attract the hunting herons, performing the dance of predator and prey. With an abundance of marine life including octopi, moray eel, and shark, snorkeling is highly recommended.

Highlights: Snorkeling
Activities: Snorkeling and swimming
Type of Landing: Wet landing
Difficulty: Easy

Santiago Island, Buccaneer Cove: Buccaneer Cove is a testament to the fact that Santiago Island was once a refuge for British buccaneers. These pirates would anchor in the protected bay to make repairs and stock up on tortoise meat among other things. The steep cliffs, where hundreds of seabirds perch in front of the dark red sand beach, are a magnificent site.

Highlights: Sea birds, historical site, snorkeling, rock formations
Activities: Short walk along the beach (less than 0.6 mi/1 km)
Type of Landing: Wet landing
Difficulty: Easy

Santiago Island, Egas Point: Also known as James Bay, Egas Port is home to the curious Galapagos Hawks and Quick-footed Galapagos Lava Lizards. The trail leads to a coastline with gorgeous tide pools and grottos full of fauna. Here the Galapagos Fur Sea Lions bathe in the sun. This is also a great snorkeling site.

Highlights: Fur sea lions, Galapagos Sea Lions, tidal pools and “grottos”, Galapagos Hawk, oyster catchers, marine iguanas, finches; snorkeling: reef sharks, turtles, rays, nice underwater formations.
Activities: Snorkeling, hiking (1.25 mi/2 km)
Type of Landing: Wet landing
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

FRIDAY: North Seymour Island & Santa Cruz Island: Highlands

North Seymour Island: Galapagos Sea Lions, Blue-footed Boobies and Magnificent Frigatebirds are abundant on North Seymour Island. The island was formed by a series of submarine lavas containing layers of sediment that were uplifted by tectonic activity. The island is characterized by its arid vegetation zone.

Highlights: Land & marine iguanas, frigatebirds, Blue-footed Boobies, sea lions; snorkeling: Rays, reef shark, fish, garden eels.
Activities: Snorkeling, dinghy ride & hiking (1.5 mi/2.5 km)
Type of Landing: Dry landing
Difficulty: Moderate/Difficult

Santa Cruz Island, Highlands: Reached by bus from Puerto Ayora, the highlands of Santa Cruz are a deep green, contrasting beautifully with much of the dry, lower islands. The dominant vegetation in the highlands is the Scalesia trees, creating the lush green color. The lava tubes, over half a mile long, are underground and walking through them is a unique, surreal experience.

Highlights: Lava tunnels, wild turtles, tortoises breeding center
Activities: Hike (1.5 mi/ 2 ½ km)
Type of Landing: Dry landing
Difficulty: Moderate (long)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

SATURDAY: Mosquera Islet & Depart Baltra Airport

Mosquera Islet: Located between the islands of Baltra and North Seymour, this reef of rocks and coral (the result of an uprising) is only 160 meters across at its narrowest width. This island has one of the largest populations of sea lions and is home to many shorebirds. There have been occasional reports at this site of Orcas feeding on sea lions.

Highlights: Orcas, Sea lions, shore birds
Activities: Dinghy ride
Type of Landing: No landing
Difficulty: Easy

Afterwards you will be transferred to the Baltra Airport for your flight back to mainland Ecuador.

Meals Included: Breakfast

SATURDAY: Arrive San Cristobal Airport & Lobos Island & Kicker Rock

You will be met upon arrival and transferred to the boat. On board you will receive your cabin assignment and lunch will be served.

San Cristobal Island, Lobos Island: The name of this island means ¨Sea Lion Island¨. This appropriately named island is ripe with noisy, frolicking, jolly sea lions who will welcome you to their home with open, well, fins. This island also offers great snorkeling opportunities as well as the chance to see Blue-footed and Nazca Boobies.

Highlights: Snorkeling with sea lions, frigatebirds, Blue-footed Boobies
Activities: Short hike (less than 0.6 mi/1 km), dinghy ride and/or snorkeling.
Type of Landing: Dry landing
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate

San Cristobal Island, Kicker Rock: This striking rock formation is located a couple hours off the western shore of San Cristobal. Jutting out of the water, the rocks stand vertically at hundreds of feet above the ocean divided by a small channel. Although there are no landing areas, kayaking and scuba diving allow visitors to spot a variety of marine life.

Highlights: Great snorkeling: sharks, tropical fish, turtles, manta rays (occ.), hammerhead sharks, spectacular rock formations; sea birds: Blue-footed Boobies, Nazca Boobies & frigatebirds.
Activities: Snorkeling & dinghy ride
Type of Landing: No landing
Difficulty: Easy

Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

SUNDAY: San Cristobal Island: Pitt Point & Witch Hill

San Cristobal Island, Pitt Point: Pitt Point, situated on the north-eastern tip of the island, hosts frigatebirds, storm petrels, and all three types of Booby Birds: the Nazca, Blue-footed and Red-footed Boobies. A steep trail goes up a cliff and through a ravine leading visitors to an area with an abundance of birds. This site is also great for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Highlights: Wonderful landscape, sea lion colony, three possible species of Boobies.
Activities: Dinghy ride, snorkeling, kayaking & hike (1.5 mi/2.5 km)
Type of Landing: Wet landing
Difficulty: Moderate/Difficult

San Cristobal Island, Witch Hill: Located on the northern coast, this eroded hill and its surroundings present one of the most picturesque beaches in the Galapagos with its white powdery sand and the abundance of animals. Wildlife includes sea turtles, rays, and various types of Booby Birds. The clear water provides an excellent opportunity for enjoying swimming and snorkeling.

Highlights: Beautiful rock formations, sea lions, shore birds, finches and mockingbirds; snorkeling: nice tropical fish, anemones, sponge coral
Activities: Hike, dinghy ride, snorkeling & kayaking
Type of Landing: Wet landing
Difficulty: Easy walk along the beach

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

MONDAY: Floreana Island: Post Office Bay, Cormorant Point & Devil’s Crown

Floreana Island, Post Office Bay: In the 18th century whalers passing through the islands placed a wooden barrel on Floreana Island for use as an unofficial mail box. The tradition continues today as visitors leave addressed postcards in the barrel and sort through left mail to deliver at home.

Highlights: Barrel Post Office, nice sandy beach
Activities: Short hike (less than 0.6 mi/1 km) & snorkeling
Type of Landing: Wet landing
Difficulty: Easy

Floreana Island, Cormorant Point: This site hosts a large flamingo lagoon where other birds such as common stilts, White-cheeked Pintails can also be seen. The beaches on this island are distinct: The “Green Beach” named so due to its green color, which comes from a high percentage of olivine crystals in the sand, and the “Four Sand Beach” composed of white coral.

Highlights: Flamingos, green-colored beach
Activities: Dinghy ride & hike (1.2 mi /2 km)
Type of Landing: Wet landing
Difficulty: Easy

Floreana Island, Devil’s Crown: One of the best snorkeling sites in the Galapagos, this volcanic crater has been eroded by the waves leaving the northern and southern sides poking out of the water. The coral reef in the middle is perfect for attracting marine life. Snorkelers enjoy the variety of marine life and exciting currents that rush through the crown, creating an exhilarating experience.

Highlights: The best snorkeling site in Galapagos Islands with sharks, rays, rock formations, lots of tropical fish
Activities: Snorkeling
Type of Landing: No landing
Difficulty: Moderate/Difficult

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

TUESDAY: Santa Cruz Island: Black Turtle Cove & Depart Baltra Airport

Santa Cruz Island, Black Turtle Cove: Black Turtle Cove is situated in the northern part of Santa Cruz. This inlet is surrounded by mangroves and is only accessible by dinghy. The shallow cove is a safe haven for young marine life. Blacktip and whitetip reef sharks, sea turtles, and a variety of rays are often spotted here.

Highlights: Hammerhead shark babies, rays, sea turtles, sea birds
Activities: Dinghy ride
Type of Landing: No landing
Difficulty: Easy

Afterwards you will be transferred to the Baltra Airport for your flight back to mainland Ecuador.

Meals Included: Breakfast