Great Galapagos Expedition: 8 Days Of Wildlife And Nature

192 hrs
From
12.189.554 ARS

Embark on an 8-day adventure through the stunning Galapagos Islands, where you will sail between picturesque beaches, awe-inspiring volcanic landscapes, and remarkable natural vistas. Delight in hiking, snorkeling, and close encounters with giant tortoises, frigatebirds, penguins, marine iguanas, along with an amazing array of endemic wildlife in one of the planet's most extraordinary natural havens.

Tour Description

DAY 1 – ARRIVAL IN GALAPAGOS NORTH SEYMOUR

Touch down at Baltra Airport and receive a warm welcome from a seasoned naturalist guide to kickstart your unforgettable journey through the Galapagos Islands. In the afternoon, head to North Seymour, an island famed for its rich wildlife. Here, you'll witness colonies of blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds with their distinctive red sacs, marine iguanas, and sea lions lounging on the coastline.

DAY 2 – SANTA FE SOUTH PLAZA

Discover the breathtaking Santa Fe Island, known for its towering Opuntia cacti, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and pristine white-sand beaches inhabited by sea lions. As you trek, you'll encounter unique land iguanas, Galapagos hawks, and a variety of archipelago-native birds. Later, explore South Plaza, a vibrant island bustling with wildlife, including land iguanas, sea lion colonies, and striking cliffs adorned with seabirds.

DAY 3 – EL BARRANCO DARWIN BAY

Continue your adventure in Genovesa, a prime birdwatching haven in the Galápagos. At El Barranco, marvel at red-footed boobies and frigatebirds nesting on volcanic cliffs, alongside Galápagos fur seals nestled among the rocks. In the afternoon, explore Darwin Bay, a picturesque natural arena hosting hundreds of seabirds, sea lions, and marine iguanas.

DAY 4 – HIGHLANDS BACHAS BEACH

Journey to the highlands of Santa Cruz Island, where you can observe giant tortoises in their natural environment, alongside fascinating lava tunnels and lush endemic flora. In the afternoon, unwind at Bachas Beach, a scenic spot perfect for strolling, relaxing, or snorkeling amidst shorebirds and sea turtles.

DAY 5 – KICKER ROCK ISLA LOBOS

Cruise around Kicker Rock, also known as Sleeping Lion, one of the Galápagos' most iconic geological formations and a haven for various seabirds. Later, visit Isla Lobos, celebrated for its lively sea lions, frigatebirds, and blue-footed boobies inhabiting this serene natural sanctuary.

DAY 6 – PUNTA SUÁREZ GARDNER BAY

Explore Punta Suárez, hailed as one of the premier wildlife locations in the Galápagos. Here, you can spot marine iguanas, seabirds, and the magnificent Galápagos albatross during its breeding season. Afterward, relax at Gardner Bay, a white-sand beach with crystal-clear waters perfect for unwinding and enjoying aquatic activities.

DAY 7 – PUNTA CORMORANT POST OFFICE BAY

Uncover Cormorant Point on Floreana Island, home to flamingos, sea turtles, and blue-footed boobies. Enjoy the chance to snorkel at Devil's Crown, one of the archipelago's most breathtaking marine locations. Later, visit Post Office Bay, a historic site used by sailors since the 18th century.

DAY 8 – CHARLES DARWIN STATION RETURN

Before concluding your adventure, visit the esteemed Charles Darwin Research Station, devoted to the conservation of the iconic giant tortoises and endemic species of the archipelago. Afterward, transfer to Baltra Airport for your departure flight.

What’s included?

What’s included:

• Airport assistance on cruise departure dates • Transportation and fuel surcharge within the Galapagos Marine Reserve • Accommodation in single, double, or triple cabins depending on the reservation • Bilingual naturalist guide (Spanish-English) • Onboard cruise director, ensuring seamless coordination and an excellent passenger experience • Personalized crew service • All meals during the cruise, from lunch on the first day to breakfast on the last day • A snack after each activity (except the last day) • Welcome cocktail • Unlimited purified water, coffee, and tea • All visits, excursions, and activities as per the itinerary • Airport-canal/canal-airport transportation (Lobitos Bus) • Use of docks and ferries • Snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, and fins) • Use of kayaks and paddleboards in authorized areas • Wetsuits • Daily shampoo, conditioner, and soap • Beach towels • Hair dryer in cabins • Clothes/towel dryer

What’s NOT included:

• International flights to/from Ecuador • Airfare to/from the Galapagos Islands from the mainland (Quito or Guayaquil) • Galapagos National Park entrance fee (USD 200 per person) • Transit Control Card (USD 20 per person) • Alcoholic and soft drinks • Gratuities • Personal expenses • Travel insurance (highly recommended) • Additional services not specified in the program

Frequently Asked Questions

This 8-day tour of the Galapagos Islands typically includes accommodations in tourist hotels, breakfasts, land and sea transfers, daily excursions to authorized sites within the Galapagos National Park, a certified naturalist guide, basic snorkeling equipment (depending on the program), and assistance throughout the trip. International flights, the mainland-Galapagos flight, the Transit Control Card (TCT), the National Park fee, meals not specified, beverages, tips, travel insurance, and personal expenses are not usually included. The itinerary may be adjusted due to weather or park regulations. We recommend requesting an updated list of inclusions, exclusions, and cancellation policies before booking.

The Galápagos Islands are a nature and wildlife destination with year-round sightings. From December to May (warm season), the waters are warmer and the sea calmer, ideal for snorkeling; you'll see marine iguanas, tortoises, blue-footed boobies, and active sea lions. From June to November (dry season, Humboldt Current), the water is cooler, marine life increases, and underwater activity is enhanced, with a greater presence of pelagic fish. Bird and landscape photography is excellent during both seasons. To avoid peak season, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons and book your excursions and flights in advance. Pack a lightweight wetsuit during the cooler months.

The typical itinerary combines short to moderate hikes on official trails, boat trips, snorkeling in bays and caves, wildlife viewing, and time spent on beaches. Basic fitness is recommended: the ability to hike for 2–4 hours with interpretive stops and swim or float with a life jacket in open water with gentle waves. Some surfaces are rocky or uneven. Activities are led by a certified naturalist guide and include safety briefings. People with reduced mobility may encounter limitations at certain sites. The pace of the tour is adapted to the group, with gentler alternatives when possible. Please inquire about age restrictions, health requirements, and the availability of optional kayaks.

For this excursion, bring biodegradable (reef-safe) sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, lightweight UV-protective clothing, a swimsuit, a windbreaker, hiking boots and water sandals, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, a dry bag, a camera, and memory cards. Seasickness pills are helpful on speedboats. Many tours include a mask, snorkel, and fins; however, bringing your own mask improves the fit. A short wetsuit is recommended in the cooler months. Bring your passport, Transit Control Card (TCT), USD cash for fees and tips, and travel insurance. Pack light: compact bags make inter-island transfers and boat trips easier.

The tour package typically uses tourist or superior tourist category hotels with private rooms, bathrooms, hot water, and air conditioning, located near local amenities. Inter-island transfers are by speedboat or short flights, depending on the itinerary. Boat trips can last 2–3 hours and may involve rough seas; if you are sensitive to waves, take an anti-nausea medication beforehand. Airport-hotel and port-hotel transfers are usually arranged. Soft, compact luggage is recommended; reduced weight limits may apply on inter-island flights. The operation complies with Galapagos National Park regulations and promotes responsible ecotourism. Please confirm schedules, baggage policies, and hotel upgrades before confirming your reservation.

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Great Galapagos Expedition: 8 Days Of Wildlife And Nature

192 hrs
From 12.189.554 ARS

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Great Galapagos Expedition: 8 Days Of Wildlife And Nature