15 days
from $15,990
Grace – All Islands
Highlights
Explore All Galapagos Islands open to visitors
Visit Santa Cruz's Charles Darwin's research center
Observe magestic flamingos at Floreana Island
Snorkel at Española's Gardner Bay along unique marine life
See all 3 species of boobies at San Cristobal
Yellowish Iguanas photo opportunity at Santa Fe
South Plaza's white sandy beachers & ocean views
North Seymour's largest colonies of Bue-Footed Boody
Bartolome's Pinnacle Rock and snorkel with penguins
Chinese Hat unique conical shape and lava formations
Witness Genovesa's largest variety of seabirds
Walk Santiago's moonscape-like volcanic formations
Swim alongside turtles and seahorses at Isabela Island
Access Fernandina pristine ecosystem at Punta Espinoza
Tour Facts
Price
Duration
ship
Activity Level
Starts / Ends
Departs
Location
Tour Facts
Price
Duration
ship
Activity Level
Starts / Ends
Departs
Location
Summary
Day
overnight & activities
1
BaltraIsland|Baltra Airport|Santa CruzIsland|Highlands & Darwin Ctr.
2
FloreanaIsland|Peace Asylum|Cormorant Point & Devil's Crown
3
EspañolaIsland|Punta Suarez|Gardner Bay & Gardner Islet
4
San CristobalIsland|Punta Pitt|Lobos Island & Kicker Rock
5
Santa FeIsland|South PlazaIsland
6
N. SeymourIsland|BartolomeIsland
7
Chinese HatIslet|Santa CruzIsland|Dragon Hill
8
Santa CruzIsland|Black Turtle Cove|Bachas Beach
9
GenovesaIsland|Prince Phillip's Steps|Darwin Bay
10
SantiagoIsland|James Bay|Buccaneer's Cove
11
IsabelaIsland|Punta Vicente Roca|Tagus Cove
12
FernandinaIsland|Espinosa Point|IsabelaIsland|Urbina Bay
13
IsabelaIsland|Elizabeth Bay|Punta Moreno
14
IsabelaIsland|Las Tintoreras, Sucres's Cave & Sierra Negra Volcano
15
Santa CruzIsland|Los Gemelos Craters|BaltraIsland|Airport (GPS)
Full Itinerary
Day 1
(Tuesday)
BaltraIsland|Airport (GPS)|Santa CruzIsland|Highlands & Darwin Ctr.
Welcome upon arrival to the Galapagos Island's Baltra Airport and transfer to the ship.
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.
Santa Cruz' Highlands in Galapagos offer a unique natural landscape. Lush vegetation, giant tortoises roaming freely, and volcanic formations define this area. Explore lava tunnels, witness tortoise habitats, and discover the endemic flora and fauna.
The Charles Darwin Research Center stands as a beacon of scientific research, conservation, and education. Founded in 1959, the center operates in close collaboration with the Galápagos National Park Directorate, focusing on the preservation and study of the archipelago's unique biodiversity. Housing extensive biological collections, a breeding program for giant tortoises, and laboratories for various ecological studies, the facility plays a crucial role in global conservation efforts. For visitors, the center offers a deep dive into the evolutionary tales and conservation challenges of the Galápagos, perpetuating Darwin's legacy of inquiry and discovery.
activities
:
Walk
meals
:
Dinner
Day 2
(Wednesday)
FloreanaIsland|Peace Asylum|Cormorant Point & Devil's Crown
Floreana Island stands out for its intriguing history, including stories of pirates and settlers, as well as the famous "Post Office Bay." Its diverse landscapes and captivating beaches make it a unique destination in the Galapagos.
Peace Asylum, or "Asilo de la Paz," is an area with historical and natural significance. Originally used as a haven for early settlers, it carries a sense of the human history embedded in these isolated islands. Today, the site encompasses more than just its historical aspects; it is enveloped by highlands that serve as a habitat for the island's native flora and fauna. Notable are the Galápagos tortoises and various bird species that frequent the area. The Peace Asylum represents an intersection of human history and natural evolution, adding layers of complexity to Floreana's already rich narrative.
Cormorant Point encompasses diverse natural wonders and intriguing history. The area offers two contrasting beaches - one with volcanic olivine crystals that shimmer in the sunlight, and the other adorned with fine white sand, a result of coral erosion. In between lies a hyper-saline lagoon, attracting flamingoes, pintails, stilts, and other wading birds. Visitors can explore the lagoon and continue on a trail to Four Beach, where sea turtles can be spotted riding the waves. Nearby is the islet of Champion, renowned for exceptional snorkeling opportunities, including interactions with sea lions, schools of colorful fish, and the chance to encounter Galapagos penguins.
Devil's Crown is a submerged volcanic crater that serves as one of the region's premier snorkeling and diving locations. This natural formation consists of jagged, rocky spires that breach the ocean's surface, resembling a crown. Below the waterline, the site is a hotspot of marine biodiversity, teeming with a vibrant array of coral, fish, and other marine species such as sea turtles and sharks. The geological complexity of the area enhances water circulation and nutrient distribution, creating an ideal environment for marine life.
activities
:
Snorkel, Walk, Zodiac
meals
:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3
(Thursday)
EspañolaIsland|Punta Suarez|Gardner Bay & Gardner Islet
Española Island, the oldest of the Galápagos, exudes raw beauty and unique wildlife. Its untamed landscapes feature towering cliffs, pounding surf, and pristine beaches. Home to the world's only waved albatross colony, the island offers an astonishing display of these magnificent birds engaging in elaborate courtship dances. The endemic Hood mockingbird and Española lava lizard are equally captivating. Gardner Bay boasts a powdery white beach frequented by sea lions and marine iguanas. Punta Suarez offers dramatic blowholes and nesting seabirds. Española's isolation has nurtured a distinctive environment, making it a vital haven for endemic species and a must-see for nature enthusiasts.
Punta Suarez is a captivating natural spectacle. This rocky point showcases the island's rugged charm with its towering cliffs and tumultuous waves crashing against the shore. The area hosts the world's only waved albatross colony, where these magnificent birds engage in intricate mating rituals. Visitors witness blue-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, and swallow-tailed gulls nesting on the cliffs. The dramatic blowholes create a stunning water display, while the endemic Española marine iguanas add to the island's unique allure.
Gardner Bay offers a pristine sandy beach embraced by turquoise waters. This tranquil haven is a hub of marine life, making it ideal for snorkeling with playful sea lions, colorful reef fish, and graceful sea turtles. The beach serves as a nesting site for green sea turtles, and the shoreline is dotted with curious Galapagos sea lions. Visitors often encounter endemic mockingbirds and lava lizards. The striking combination of white sands, crystal-clear waters, and abundant wildlife showcases the Galapagos' unique charm, making Gardner Bay a serene and enchanting destination.
Gardner Islet is a significant site for both marine ecology and wildlife observation. Known for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, the islet provides an idyllic setting for an array of marine life, including sea lions and colorful reef fish. The underwater world around Gardner Islet is also a popular spot for snorkeling and diving, revealing intricate coral formations and the occasional sighting of larger marine species like manta rays. On land, the islet is frequented by various bird species, adding to its ecological richness.
activities
:
Kayak, Snorkel, Walk, Zodiac
meals
:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4
(Friday)
San CristobalIsland|Punta Pitt|Lobos Island & Kicker Rock
San Cristóbal Island, a cornerstone of the Galápagos archipelago, showcases captivating landscapes and unique biodiversity. Its diverse habitats, from arid zones to lush highlands, house a variety of iconic species, such as giant tortoises, frigate-birds, and blue-footed boobies. The island's historic significance resonates through sites like Cerro Tijeretas, where Darwin first stepped ashore in the Galápagos. The island offers opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and exploring the vibrant capital, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. Discover its pristine beaches, stunning viewpoints, and the Galápagos National Park Interpretation Center, providing insights into the archipelago's natural and human history.
Punta Pitt, a striking promontory on San Cristóbal, is renowned for its unique features and diverse wildlife. Its rust-hued cliffs, formed by ancient lava flows, provide a dramatic backdrop to the rich ecosystem. This site is the only place where all three species of boobies - blue-footed, red-footed, and Nazca - nest together. The trail leading to the viewpoint allows visitors to witness these impressive avian displays, as well as the vibrant hues of marine iguanas and sea lions that thrive in its surroundings.
Los Lobos Islet serves as a sanctuary for various marine species, most notably the sea lions from which it derives its name ("The Wolves" in Spanish). Characterized by rocky shorelines and shallow, clear waters, the islet provides an ideal environment for observing these fascinating creatures, along with other marine life such as marine iguanas and a variety of fish species. For birdwatchers, the site also offers a glimpse of blue-footed boobies and frigate-birds.
Kicker Rock, or "León Dormido" as it is locally known, is a striking volcanic formation located off the coast of San Cristobal. Comprising two sheer rocks that rise dramatically over 140 meters above the ocean's surface, Kicker Rock serves as a unique marine sanctuary. The channel between the rocks is one of the region's premier diving and snorkeling sites, attracting a variety of marine life including hammerhead sharks, sea turtles, and rays.
activities
:
Kayak, Snorkel, Walk, Zodiac
meals
:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5
(Saturday)
Santa FeIsland|South PlazaIsland
Santa Fe Island, with its pristine beaches and rich biodiversity. Its turquoise waters and sandy shores create a serene ambiance, providing an ideal spot for snorkeling with playful sea lions and encountering marine life. The endemic Santa Fe land iguana, characterized by its pale coloration and distinct features, roams freely. The island's towering Opuntia cacti and endemic Palo Santo trees showcase its unique flora. Santa Fe is a living testament to the Galápagos' ongoing ecological conservation, inviting visitors to connect with its natural wonders in a profound and responsible way.
South Plaza Island, a masterpiece of evolution. Its dramatic cliffs, sculpted by wind and waves, create a stunning backdrop for a vibrant ecosystem. Land iguanas, unique to South Plaza, bask in the sun amidst carpets of vibrant succulents. The island's exceptional birdlife includes swallow-tailed gulls, red-billed tropicbirds, and the iconic blue-footed boobies engaging in their intricate courtship dance. Sea lions laze on the rocky shores, while the striking contrast between the turquoise waters and the island's reddish-brown terrain creates a breathtaking visual.
activities
:
Kayak, Snorkel, Walk, Zodiac
meals
:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6
(Sunday)
N. SeymourIsland|BartolomeIsland
North Seymour Island, a geological wonder, boasts a captivating blend of wildlife and landscapes. Its flat terrain is sculpted by ancient lava flows, providing a canvas for vibrant displays of flora and fauna. A haven for bird enthusiasts, the island features colonies of blue-footed boobies, frigate-birds, and swallow-tailed gulls engaged in their intricate mating rituals. Land iguanas roam the arid landscape, adding to the diverse ecological tapestry. As you traverse the island's trails, the unique behaviors and interactions of its inhabitants unfold, making North Seymour a captivating destination for ecotourism and nature exploration.
Bartolome Island, is a volcanic islet with unique and breathtaking landscape. The iconic Pinnacle Rock, an ancient volcanic formation, stands as a prominent landmark against the surrounding azure waters. The island offers panoramic vistas from its summit, accessible by a wooden staircase. The distinct terrain showcases volcanic formations, including spatter cones and tuff formations. The beaches welcome sea lions and snorkelers to encounter marine life, including Galapagos penguins and white-tipped reef sharks.
activities
:
Snorkel, Walk, Zodiac
meals
:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7
(Monday)
Chinese HatIslet|Santa CruzIsland|Dragon Hill
Chinese Hat Islet is a small volcanic cone off Santiago Island's southeastern coast. Its iconic conical shape and stark lava formations provide insight into the archipelago's geological history. The surroundings offers opportunities for snorkeling and dinghy rides in the calm waters of the crescent-shaped cove. Sea lions bask on the white sandy beach, while marine iguanas and lava lizards inhabit the rocky areas. As you explore the islet's interior, witness unique Galapagos wildlife and the distinctive pahoehoe lava formations.
Dragon Hill is a captivating destination featuring a brackish lagoon where migratory birds and flamingos gather. Venture along a trail through a forest of Opuntia cacti and enjoy stunning vistas of the coastline. Encounter the iconic Galapagos giant tortoises in their natural habitat and learn about conservation efforts. An excellent location for birdwatching and nature enthusiasts.
activities
:
Kayak, Snorkel, Walk, Zodiac
meals
:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8
(Tuesday)
Santa CruzIsland|Black Turtle Cove|Bachas Beach
Black Turtle Cove, located on the northern coast of Santa Cruz Island, is a complex of tidal mangrove lagoons that serve as a safe haven for marine life. Accessible only by boat, this tranquil area is frequented by sea turtles, rays, and juvenile sharks, which use the calm, nutrient-rich waters as a nursery and feeding ground. The mangroves themselves play a critical role in nutrient cycling and shoreline stabilization.
Bachas Beach is a picturesque coastal gem in the Galapagos archipelago. With its soft white sands and crystal-clear waters, it provides an inviting haven for visitors. The area's unique history is evident in the remnants of WWII barges that rest along the shoreline. Flamingos frequent the brackish lagoon, creating a striking contrast against the volcanic landscape. Visitors can stroll along the beach, observe marine iguanas, and enjoy excellent snorkeling opportunities. Bachas Beach offers a serene setting where natural beauty and historical elements merge, making it an enriching destination for exploration and relaxation.
activities
:
Snorkel, Walk
meals
:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9
(Wednesday)
GenovesaIsland|Prince Phillip's Steps|Darwin Bay
Genovesa Island, also known as "Bird Island," is a haven for avian enthusiasts. This remote volcanic formation hosts an array of bird species in impressive quantities. The island's natural amphitheater provides an opportunity to observe red-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, and swallow-tailed gulls in their natural habitat. The unique topography, with its steep cliffs and diverse vegetation, offers a dramatic backdrop to these remarkable avian displays. As one of the northernmost islands in the Galapagos, Genovesa's ecological isolation contributes to the preservation of its extraordinary bird populations and distinctive ecosystem.
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.
Darwin Bay is a remarkable testament to nature's grandeur. As visitors step ashore onto the soft sandy beach, they are immediately immersed in a symphony of birdlife. Red-footed boobies, great frigate-birds, and swallow-tailed gulls soar overhead, while sea lions and marine iguanas share the shore. A leisurely stroll along the trails unveils a wealth of wonders, from mangroves to tidal pools, each hosting unique marine life. This secluded paradise offers snorkeling encounters with sharks, rays, and colorful fish, providing a glimpse into the underwater world that complements the island's awe-inspiring avian spectacle.
activities
:
Kayak, Snorkel, Walk, Zodiac
meals
:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10
(Thursday)
SantiagoIsland|James Bay|Buccaneer's Cove
Santiago Island, a significant part of the Galapagos archipelago, captivates with its stark volcanic landscapes and diverse ecosystems. The island embodies the Galapagos' geological wonders and showcases the coexistence of terrestrial and marine life in an environment of striking contrasts and unparalleled natural beauty.
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.
Buccaneer's Cove holds an air of historical intrigue and natural beauty. The sheltered bay once provided refuge to pirates and whalers, and its pristine waters and volcanic formations remain a testament to its past. Visitors can kayak along its tranquil shores, marvel at the rich marine life through snorkeling, and witness the impressive geological formations. The cove's tranquil ambiance, historical significance, and breathtaking surroundings make it a unique and captivating destination for those exploring the diverse wonders of the Galapagos Islands.
activities
:
Kayak, Snorkel, Walk, Zodiac
meals
:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 11
(Friday)
IsabelaIsland|Punta Vicente Roca|Tagus Cove
Isabela Island, the largest in the archipelago, boasts captivating landscapes. Its Sierra Negra volcano offers the world's second-largest caldera, while the marine life-rich waters off Punta Vicente Roca are ideal for snorkeling. Unique flora and fauna, such as flightless cormorants and Galapagos penguins, define its ecological significance.
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.
Tagus Cove has long been a refuge for sea vessels, dating back to the 1800s when whalers inscribed their ship names onto its cliffs. Today, the cove is renowned more for its natural attributes than its maritime history. Dominated by steep cliffs and offering panoramic views of the adjacent Darwin Lake, an uplifted saltwater lagoon, Tagus Cove presents a rich tapestry of volcanic landscapes. The surrounding environment is teeming with wildlife, from flightless cormorants to Galápagos penguins.
activities
:
Snorkel, Walk, Zodiac
meals
:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 12
(Saturday)
FernandinaIsland|Espinosa Point|IsabelaIsland|Urbina Bay
Fernandina Island, the youngest and most pristine, showcases volcanic terrain and minimal human impact. It teems with marine iguanas, Galapagos penguins, and flightless cormorants, while lava formations tell the island's geological story. This island provides a glimpse into the natural evolution of the Galapagos ecosystem.
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.
Urbina Bay is an exceptional showcase of geological marvels and evolutionary wonders. Resulting from a dramatic uplift in 1954, large sections of the seabed emerged, revealing marine fossils, coral formations, and strata previously submerged. This area offers a tangible glimpse into the Earth's dynamic forces at play. Additionally, the bay's diverse habitats are home to an array of species, including land iguanas, giant tortoises, and a plethora of birdlife.
activities
:
Snorkel, Walk
meals
:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 13
(Sunday)
IsabelaIsland|Elizabeth Bay|Punta Moreno
Elizabeth Bay is a marine sanctuary of remarkable ecological richness. Accessible only by boat, this sheltered inlet features a complex of mangrove forests, tidal pools, and shallow waters, providing crucial habitat for a variety of species. From green sea turtles to spotted eagle rays, the bay is a microcosm of marine biodiversity. The mangroves play a vital role in nutrient cycling, acting as nurseries for young fish.
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.
activities
:
Snorkel, Walk, Zodiac
meals
:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 14
(Monday)
IsabelaIsland|Las Tintoreras, Sucres's Cave & Sierra Negra Volcano
Las Tintoreras, a small group of islets located near Isabela Island, serve as a microcosm of the region's rich biodiversity and geological diversity. Characterized by its lava formations, the area features a unique interplay of marine and terrestrial habitats. The shallow, turquoise waters are home to white-tipped reef sharks, often seen resting in crevices, while the rocky landscape accommodates a variety of species, such as marine iguanas and sea lions. The islets also offer a nesting ground for birds like the blue-footed booby.
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.
Sierra Negra Volcano is one of the most active and studied volcanoes in the region. Boasting one of the largest calderas in the world, with a diameter of approximately 10 kilometers, this geological marvel is a focal point for scientific research. Its last significant eruption in 2018 provided valuable insights into volcanic activity and its impact on local ecosystems. The area surrounding Sierra Negra supports a unique assemblage of flora and fauna, adapted to the volcanic environment.
activities
:
Snorkel, Walk
meals
:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 15
(Tuesday)
Santa CruzIsland|Los Gemelos Craters|BaltraIsland|Airport (GPS)
Gemelos Craters are twin sinkholes that offer a compelling study in geological and ecological diversity. Contrary to popular belief, these formations are not volcanic craters but are the result of the collapse of underground lava tunnels. Surrounded by a lush Scalesia forest, the area is a hotspot for endemic flora and fauna, including various species of finches and the elusive short-eared owl.
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.
activities
:
Walk
meals
:
Breakfast
end of the itinerary
Important: Daily activities description subject to change
Pricing Details
Rates shown are per person based on standard double room or cabin occupancy.
Prices in US$ and valid through December 31, 2024
Single occupancy subject to single supplement .
Credit card payments subject to 3% processing fee.
What is Included
Hotels as shown or similar
All meals as shown
Airport transfers as shown
Professional bilingual guides
Excursions as part of a group
Gratuities except to guides
Additional Budget Considerations
International flights
Quito or Guayaquil to Galapagos roundtrip flights (est. $500)
Galapagos park fee and Tourist Card ($120)