Galapagos Essentials - 7 Days

Arrive in Quito, the Cultural Capital of South America and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nestled in a valley at the foothills of the Pichincha volcano, this vibrant city boasts the best-preserved colonial architecture in the Americas. Spend the day exploring Quito’s charming Old Town, its plazas, churches, and cobblestone streets. If you’d like, we can help arrange a day trip to nearby attractions (advance notice required). At 6:00 PM, meet your trip leader and group in the hotel lobby for a welcome briefing. Discuss the details of your upcoming adventure, ask questions, and acclimate to Quito’s altitude while preparing for the journey ahead.

Fly to Baltra Island in the Galápagos. Upon arrival, cross the Itabaca Channel by ferry to Santa Cruz Island. Your first stop is the lush highlands of Santa Cruz, home to the legendary giant Galápagos tortoises. Enjoy lunch at a private ranch before taking a walk to observe these iconic creatures in their natural habitat. Explore fascinating lava tubes, formed by ancient molten rivers, before continuing to your hotel. In the evening, meet your local guide to review the next day’s itinerary and enjoy leisure time to soak in the unique ambiance of the island.

Breakfast Included.

After breakfast, embark on a half-day tour to Academy Bay. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters teeming with exotic marine life, including playful sea lions, colorful fish, and vibrant coral. Watch for the famous blue-footed boobies perched along the shoreline. Climb to a scenic viewpoint for breathtaking views of the bay, where you might spot white-tipped reef sharks gliding below. End your adventure with a walk along Playa de los Perros, where marine iguanas bask on the rocks. The striking contrast of red lava formations, towering cacti, and turquoise waters creates unforgettable photo opportunities.

Breakfast Included.

Spend the morning at the Charles Darwin Research Station, where you’ll learn about the Galápagos’ unique ecosystems, conservation efforts, and the iconic tortoise breeding program. Gain insight into the islands' delicate balance and ongoing preservation initiatives. In the afternoon, take a speedboat to San Cristóbal Island, the easternmost island in the archipelago. Check into your hotel and enjoy a leisurely evening exploring the town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.

Breakfast Included.

After breakfast, head to the dock for a short boat ride to Isla Lobos, a sanctuary for Galápagos wildlife. On the way, marvel at marine life from the boat, including manta rays and sea turtles. Once on the island, enjoy a guided tour showcasing frigate birds, blue-footed boobies, and colonies of sea lions. Snorkel in the surrounding waters, home to vibrant coral reefs and occasionally sharks. Stroll along the island’s stunning white coral beaches or relax and soak in the tranquil atmosphere before returning to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.

Breakfast Included.

Spend a relaxing morning on San Cristóbal Island before transferring to the airport for your flight back to Quito. Upon arrival, you’ll be taken to your hotel for one final evening in Ecuador. Use this time to reflect on your Galápagos adventure, shop for souvenirs, or enjoy a farewell dinner in the city.

Please note, flights are not included in this land only package.

Breakfast Included.

Say goodbye to Ecuador as your journey comes to an end. Depart for your international flight, taking with you unforgettable memories, breathtaking photos, and perhaps even plans to return to explore more of this enchanted land. Safe travels, or as we say here, “Buen viaje!”

Breakfast Included.