Day 1

Day 1

Arriving at Guayaquil Airport (GYE), you will be met by a staff member and transferred to Wyndham Hotel Guiayaquil on Guayaquil’s Malecon Simón Bolivar walkway along the Rio Guayas.

Overnight: Wyndham Hotel Guiayaquil

Meals: None

Day 2

Day 2

A 2-hour flight takes us to the island of San Cristobal, our entry point to the Galapagos Islands. After dropping luggage at the hotel and changing into paddling clothes, we’ll set off in the kayaks from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. Paddling close to shore, you can easily observe and photograph some of the typical Galapagos wildlife up close, including blue-footed boobies, brown pelicans, marine iguanas, and Sally Lightfoot crabs. Sea turtles are very common along this route, so keep an eye out for their heads and distinctive shape in the clear water when they come up for air. Passing Isla Lobos (Sea Lion Inlet), inquisitive young sea lions often approach the kayaks, swimming and cavorting under and around them. Once we arrive at Punta Carola, where Charles Darwin first disembarked at this location,  we will take the opportunity to observe wildlife and practice maneuvers.    We return to  Puerto Baquerizo Moreno to Casa Opuntia. 

Overnight: Casa Opuntia

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3

Day 3

We will paddle from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno to Manglecito Beach.  It will take us 2.5 to 3 hours to cover six nautical miles.  Along the way, we will pass near Lobos Island, where we may approach the local fauna as they rest on the rocks close to the coast.   Once we reach Manglecito Beach, we board the comfortable support boat for the ride to Leon Dormido (sleeping lion), so named because of its shape but more commonly known as Kicker Rock. This natural monument is a favorite because of the many magnificent frigate birds and boobies that nest there. Kicker Rock is a dramatic formation, the remains of a lava cone eroded by the sea, resulting in two vertical rocks rising 500 feet from the ocean.

Once at Kicker Rock, we snorkel through the amazing channel between the two spires, where it is common to see white-tipped reef sharks, Galapagos sharks, sea turtles, and eagle rays. Beyond the big fishes of note, the channel hosts a vividly colorful display of tropical fish contrasting against a backdrop of black volcanic rock, including razor surgeonfish, Cortez rainbow wrasse, and orange-bellied triggerfish, to name only a few. After a memorable snorkeling session, we return to Puerto Baquerizo.

Overnight: Casa Opuntia

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4

Day 4

A 35-minute flight takes us from San Cristobal Island to Isla Isabela, but in that short time, we cross over 2 million years of geologic time. The difference in age is striking as we fly over Isabela’s stark lava flows on the landing approach. This great difference in island age is at the core of the adaptations that Darwin observed and sparked his theories of species evolution. After checking into our beautiful beachfront hotel, we  visit the Tortoise Breeding Center, an initiative of the National Park for the conservation of Isabela's tortoises  In the afternoon, we bike from our hotel to the Wall of Tears, a historical site, enriching our knowledge of the history of the Galapagos.   

Overnight: IsaMar

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5

Day 5

In the morning, we’ll take a boat ride across Bahia Isabela to Los Tuneles, a natural formation of underwater arches and tunnels formed by the rapid cooling of lava flowing into the ocean more than a million years ago. Crossing the crystal-clear water that covers this dramatic submarine landscape, it’s possible to observe a wide variety of sea life, including Galapagos penguins, sea birds, eagle rays, and sharks. After disembarking, a short walk takes us through a magical landscape dominated by opuntia (prickly pear) and candelabra cacti, as well as red mangroves. Sea birds, such as Nazca and blue-footed boobies, flightless cormorants, and storm petrels, can be observed resting on shore, paying little attention to passersby. A beautifully protected snorkeling spot allows us to explore this rich underwater world and possibly observe Pacific seahorses in the shadows near shore.  We paddle around the bay, close to unique volcanic formations, and sometimes swim alongside our kayaks.  We might see blue-footed boobies put on quite a show with their feeding frenzy, where they synchronously plunge to catch small fish. Returning to the hotel, there will be time to relax before dinner.

Overnight: IsaMar

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6

Day 6

Today promises an unforgettable exploration of Isla Santa Cruz in the Galapagos Islands, showcasing its extraordinary landscapes and wildlife. The adventure begins with a scenic morning boat transfer to the island, where visitors are welcomed by lush greenery and the opportunity to explore private farms dedicated to the conservation of the iconic Galapagos giant tortoise. These farms, set amid the island’s pristine, native vegetation, offer well-maintained trails that allow visitors to immerse themselves in this unique environment. Here, you’ll witness the dome-backed giants in their natural habitat, providing exceptional opportunities for observation and photography. After leaving the preserve, we'll explore a remnant of the island's volcanic past with a walk through a 1300-foot-long lava tunnel before descending to Puerto Ayora.

As the day winds down, we check into our elegant waterfront hotel. Depending on the time, there may be an opportunity to visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, where fascinating insights into the region's conservation efforts add depth to the day’s experiences.

With its rich biodiversity, dramatic landscapes, and intimate wildlife encounters, Isla Santa Cruz delivers an unparalleled journey into the heart of the Galapagos Islands.

Overnight: Angermeyer Waterfront Inn

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7

Day 7

Today’s tour promises an extraordinary blend of nature and culture, offering a deeper connection to the Galapagos Islands. Over two decades ago, a visionary project was launched to help preserve the region’s marine wildlife while supporting local livelihoods. This initiative encouraged fishermen to transition from traditional practices to sharing their expertise through navigable tours. Today, these seasoned fishermen and their crews welcome us aboard their speedboats, offering a rare glimpse into their lives at sea as they guide us to some of the islands’ most enchanting spots.

Our adventure begins with a short, scenic ride to the sandy beaches of Bahía Ballena, an idyllic ocean inlet where Galapagos sea lions lounge on the shoreline and marine iguanas bask atop lava rocks and seaweed-covered shores. Here, we’ll also encounter Darwin’s finches flitting through the coastal vegetation, adding to the area’s vibrant wildlife.

The journey takes us beneath the waves as we snorkel through an underwater world teeming with life. Among the intricate lava rocks and small reefs, tropical fish dart in brilliant colors, creating a mesmerizing seascape. The sandy ocean floor, reaching depths of up to thirty feet, is home to Pacific green sea turtles gracefully swimming by and long-tailed stingrays gliding effortlessly through the water.

As the day winds down, we will have some time to change clothes and then have dinner before returning to our hotel.

Overnight: Angermeyer Waterfront Inn

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 8

Day 8

Your day begins with a scenic transfer from the enchanting Santa Cruz Island to Baltra Airport, where you'll bid farewell to the Galápagos Islands’ breathtaking landscapes. A short flight brings you to Guayaquil, Ecuador's vibrant coastal city and gateway to the Pacific, known as the "Pearl of the Pacific." After checking in at your hotel, take some time to relax before setting out to explore the charming Las Peñas district. This historic area, with its colorful houses, cobblestone streets, and lively ambiance, is perfect for an afternoon stroll. Climb the 444 steps of Cerro Santa Ana for sweeping views of the city and river, discover hidden art galleries, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. As evening falls, enjoy a memorable farewell dinner, savoring the flavors of Ecuadorian cuisine while reminiscing about the incredible experiences of your journey.

Overnight: Wyndham Hotel Guiayaquil

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 9

Day 9

Today you say goodbye to Ecuador.  A private shuttle is arranged for your transer to the airport in order to catch your flight back home.  

Overnight: N/A

Meals: Breakfast - depending on flight time

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