Day 1
Quito
Welcome to Ecuador! Take a complimentary transfer to your hotel in the capital, Quito, and attend the welcome meeting at 6pm. If you arrive early head out to explore Quito, which is set in the Andean foothills at an altitude of 2,850 metres above sea level. Stroll around the colonial centre to see 16th and 17th century architecture built on Incan ruins, including churches and pretty squares. Don’t miss Quito’s oldest street, Calle La Ronda.
Day 2
Isla San Cristobal
Today you’ll fly to Isla San Cristobal, a journey of three-and-a-half hours. A naturalist guide will greet you and take you to the hotel. After lunch, we’ll visit the Interpretation Center to learn about the fascinating history of the Galapagos Islands. You’ll also hear about the challenges facing the volcanic archipelago and how conservationists are trying to protect this wildlife hotspot.
Climb up Frigatebird Hill, which lies two kilometres away, for sweeping views over the bay and Kicker Rock, two 140-metre-tall volcanic slabs rising out of the ocean. Finish the afternoon with some snorkelling in La Loberia, where it’s possible to spot sea lions and turtles. Note that you’ll need to purchase a mandatory Transit Control Card for $20 and pay the Galapagos National Park entrance fee of $100 in cash.
Breakfast included.
Day 3
Isla San Cristobal
Start the day with a one-hour boat ride to Isla Lobos, which has the second-largest sea lion colony in the world, amongst other stunning wildlife. Look out for nesting Frigate Birds, Blue-Footed Boobies and Marine Iguanas. There will be plenty of time for swimming and snorkelling and the chance to see manta rays, colourful fish, turtles and even the Galapagos Shark. Return to the hotel late afternoon to chill out.
Breakfast and lunch included.
Day 4
Floreana – Isla Santa Cruz
Take a private speed boat for the two-and-a-half-hour trip to Isla Floreana, named after the first president of Ecuador who took possession of the Galapagos Islands. It was also the first island to be inhabited and today has around 200 locals. During your time in Floreana you’ll learn about its colourful history, which involves whalers, wildfires and mysterious deaths.
Spend time snorkelling and relaxing on a black-sand beach at the Wittmer home, one of the first families to settle on Floreana. After lunch, you’ll board the speedboat again to Isla Santa Cruz, which takes an hour and a half.
Breakfast and lunch included.
Day 5
Isla Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz boasts the largest town in the Galapagos Islands, as well as the Charles Darwin Research Station. This morning you’ll visit the not-for-profit organisation, which was established in 1959 and tells the story of the Galapagos Islands’ natural and human history. Learn about conservation efforts and get up-close with baby turtles in the breeding program. In the afternoon, you’ll head to a higher part of the island to see wild giant tortoises, which can grow to 400 kilograms.
Breakfast and dinner included.
Day 6
Isla Santa Cruz
Enjoy a free day on the beach or continue exploring the island. There are plenty of additional activities to keep you busy, such as a 45-minute walk to the remote Tortuga Bay beach, which passes Las Grietas gorge, lava rocks and cactus fields. Experience a slice of local life at the island’s fish market or wander around the scenic town.
Breakfast included.
Day 7
Quito
Say goodbye to the incredible Galapagos Islands and fly back to Quito, arriving around 3-4pm. Spend a final evening exploring the city, doing some souvenir shopping and dining out.
Breakfast included.
Day 8
Quito
Your Galapagos Islands tour comes to an end and there are no activities planned for the day. You can depart the hotel whenever you like but if you have spare time, there are a range of optional activities on offer including market tours and hiking trips.
Breakfast included.
