Grace – North & West

Santa Cruz Island, the central hub of the Galapagos, offers a diverse blend of ecosystems. It's home to the Charles Darwin Research Station, where conservation efforts for the iconic giant tortoises take place. High-land areas feature lush vegetation, while its coastline showcases a variety of marine life, including sea turtles and sharks.

Prince Philip's Steps is an awe-inspiring natural spectacle. Ascending these steep steps unveils an avian paradise where red-footed boobies and Nazca boobies nest in the island's cliffs, and the elusive short-eared owls make their appearances during the day. The journey through this unique landscape immerses visitors in an untouched world, as they walk among the bird colonies, absorb the intricate ecosystem, and capture unparalleled vistas of the island's rugged shoreline.

James Bay is a focal point of ecological diversity and geological interest. The bay features a range of landscapes, including black sand beaches, rocky outcrops, and tide pools, each harboring its unique flora and fauna. The coastal area serves as a rich feeding ground for marine iguanas, sea lions, and various bird species. Geologically, the bay's striking formations of volcanic origin offer an insightful look into the island's tumultuous past.

Punta Vicente Roca is a captivating destination within the Galapagos archipelago. Known for its dramatic landscapes and rich marine life, this site offers a unique blend of experiences. Towering cliffs adorned with seabird colonies create a stunning backdrop for exploring the underwater world. Snorkelers and divers can encounter a diverse array of marine species, including sea turtles, penguins, and various fish species. The striking geological formations and the opportunity to witness the famed Galapagos flightless cormorants in their natural habitat make Punta Vicente Roca a must-visit location for those seeking both terrestrial and aquatic wonders.

Espinosa Point boasts remarkable volcanic landscapes and a breeding ground for marine iguanas. Visitors can witness unique wildlife interactions and geological wonders, while observing flightless cormorants, Galapagos penguins, and lava herons along lava fields and mangrove forests.

Punta Moreno offers a captivating glimpse into the Galapagos' volcanic origins and unique ecosystems. The barren, hardened lava terrain contrasts with tranquil tidal pools that teem with marine life. Brown pelicans and blue-footed boobies soar overhead, while marine iguanas and lava lizards navigate the blackened landscape. The site's geological features, including intricate lava formations and the panoramic backdrop of Sierra Negra Volcano, provide a window into the archipelago's geological history.

Sucre's Cave, located in the highlands of Isabela Island, offers a compelling blend of geological and historical significance. The cave itself is a lava tube, a natural tunnel formed by cooling lava flows, providing insights into the island's volcanic origins. It also holds cultural importance, named after Antonio José de Sucre, a key figure in South American independence. Visitors to the site can explore the cave's interior, where variations in lava layers tell a story of geological processes over time.

After a heartfelt farewell from the ship's captain and crew, we will make our way to Baltra's airport, the final stop before our flight to the mainland. If time permits, you can extend your adventure to Ecuador's unique destinations or even Peru's Machu Picchu. Our team will be glad to recommend extension alternatives before or after your Galapagos experience.