Airport (Baltra Island)

Early flight to Baltra, in the Galapagos Islands. Upon arrival meet our naturalist guide who will assist with the transfer to the Daphne. We visit the Bachas beach in the afternoon.

Chinese Hat Islet

Spend the morning exploring Chinese Hat, a small island off the southern tip of Santiago no due to its unique shape. Here it is often possible to see Galapagos penguins and the marine life is fantastic for snorkeling. There is also a large sea lion colony here as well as many marine iguanas that can be seen on our guided walk amongst the volcanic scenery, with good views to the cone of the island's volcano.

Rabida Island

In the afternoon we will make our way to Rabida Island, where we land on a red sand beach. From here a short trail leads to a salt water lagoon. Another trail goes past the lagoon to the interior, where the revered palo santo trees grow. When burned, the branches of this tree give off a pleasing aroma and ward off mosquitoes. Back on the beach among low-lying bushes nest the prehistoric-looking pelicans. This is the best area for close viewing of these nesting birds, and it's a rare treat to watch parent pelicans return with gullets full of fish for the squawking youngsters.

Buccaneer Cove (Santiago Island)

Today we explore Santiago Island which boasts marine iguanas, sea lions, fur seals, land and sea turtles among others, which provide great wildlife viewing both on land and in the water. Over the years Santiago Island has seen it's share of human activity from whalers and pirates over the years, and despite the introduction of goats to the island many years ago, the wildlife of Santiago has flourished otherwise and provides outstanding viewing opportunities.

In the morning we will jump into the pangas to cruise beside the cliffs and rock formations of Buccaneers Cove, which was a favorite hideout for pirates looking to stock up their boats with food and water. We then travel to Playa Espumilla, one of the most idyllic beaches in the Galapagos Islands, with thick mangroves along with sea turtle nesting sites.

Egas Port (Santiago Island)

The afternoon is spent exploring the black sand beaches of Puerto Egas. The long beach offers great opportunities to see fur seals, marine iguanas and outstanding marine life. Go swimming or snorkeling right off the beach, hike up the slat crater or take the 2 km walk along the beach

Espinosa Point (Fernandina Island)

Morning; visit Punta Espinoza on Fernandina, the youngest in the Galápagos Islands. Witness the largest colony of marine iguanas and a variety of bird life.
Afternoon; Urbina bay is located at the base of the Alcedo volcano. Hike the trail to get a view of the caldera watching for land iguanas along the way.

Punta Espinoza is the only visitors site on Fernandina. After a walk on the beach and up onto the lava we can go swimming and snorkeling to find the flightless cormorants in the water. Fernandina Island is the youngest in the Galapagos Islands (approximately 700,000 years old) and is also one of the most volcanically active. A fascinating mix of mangroves, rocky shores, black sand beaches, and wildlife that have had relatively little human contact. Fernandina boasts some of the most diverse marine, wildlife and vegetation in the Galapagos.

It is home to a massive colony of marine iguanas blended into the black rocks. This is a great area to see some of the more elusive birdlife of the islands including the Galapagos Hawk, flightless cormorants and the Galapagos penguin.

Urbina Bay (Isabela Island)

Arriving into Urbina Bay after lunch we will spend the afternoon ashore searching for land iguanas and walking up to the caldera of the 650m tall, Alecedo volcano. You can cool off from this long walk from the beach and search for spiny lobster and other marine wildlife underwater.

Elizabeth Bay (Isabela Island)

An early arrival into Elizabeth Bay allows us to get out into the panga boats and explore the mangroves. The mangroves are home to multitudes of bird and marine wildlife. Look out for blue footed boobies, penguins and pelicans feeding on the abundant marine life and if we are lucky we will find sea turtles too.

Moreno Point (Isabela Island)

This afternoon we will visit Punta Moreno on the southwestern side of Isabela. The landscape is pristine and desolate with impressive black lava flows and a unique system of brackish lagoons, which are a magnet for wildlife. From here there is a spectacular view of 3 volcanoes that are so distinctive to Isabela Island: Alcedo, Sierra Negra and Cerro Azul. This newly opened visitors site allows us the opportunity to see Darwin’s finches, Galapagos doves, penguins, blue-footed boobies, mockingbirds and flightless cormorants as well as unusual vegetation.

Tintoreras (Isabela Island)

This morning, visit Las Tintoreras, a small island in front of Puerto Villamil. The bay in front is known to be home to a colony of white tip sharks. Hike the Sierra Negra Volcano which has the largest basaltic caldera in the Galapagos. Along the hike, see smoking fumaroles and the "sulphur volcano" where you see large amounts of sulphur deposited around the fumaroles. The volcano last erupted in October 2005, making it the most recent eruption of the Galapagos.

Wall of tears, Breeding Center (Isabela Island)

In the afternoon, you'll also have the opportunity to see the Wall of Tears, which pays homage to prisoners forced to build the wall of huge blocks of lava between 1946 and 1959 when a penal colony was on the island. Many prisoners died during its construction. Check out the Arnaldo Tupiza Breeding Centre to see some of the famous giant tortoises of the Galapagos.

Charles Darwin Research Station (Santa Cruz Island)

In the morning we arrive in Puerto Ayora, on Santa Cruz Island. Santa Cruz is the second largest in the island group, and has the largest population, with Puerto Ayora as its main town. It also boasts the most varied of the islands’ vegetation zones: coastal, transition, scalesia, miconia and pampa. The Charles Darwin Research Station is a 10 minute walk from the centre of the town. Here, an exhibition centre displays photos of recent volcanic eruptions, charts outlining geological formations and drawings of the evolutionary development of endemic species.

Tortuga Bay (Santa Cruz Island)

In the afternoon a short walk takes us to the beautiful white beach of Tortuga Bay. Relax on the beach, walk along the mangroves looking for marine iguanas and birdlife or rent a kayak and explore this marine wonderland. The waters are known for Totoreras shares, sea turtles and manta rays in the shallow areas.

Interpretation Center (San Cristobal Island) / Airport

Arriving San Cristóbal in the morning. San Cristóbal is the easternmost island of Galapagos and one of the oldest. Its principal town is Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, the capital of the Galapagos. Disembark after breakfast, visit the interpretation center and transfer to the airport for our flight to Quito.

Flights from San Cristobal to Quito depart between 11:30am and 1:30pm depending on the day of the week. These will arrive into Quito between 4:00pm and 5:40pm with a refueling stop in Guayaquil (you will not disembark the plane).

San Cristóbal Airport

Early flight to San Cristóbal, in the Galapagos Islands. Upon arrival meet our naturalist guide who will assist with the transfer the Estrella Del Mar. After lunch we will travel about an hour to Isla Lobos. A great introduction to the Galapagos; Isla Lobs is the home to a small colony of sea lions and a great beach to walk along. The bay is clam and shallow, perfect for swimming and snorkeling with tropical fish and the sea lions.

Isla Lobos (San Cristobal Island)

Snorkel right off the beach at peaceful Isla Lobos, amid the families of sea lions and their inquisitive pups looking to play. Spot nesting frigate birds and the famous blue-footed boobies resting on the shore. Be sure to bring your camera to catch some snaps at this prime wildlife watching haven.

Pitt Point (San Cristobal Island)

We land this morning at Punta Pitt, on the eastern tip of San Cristobal where we will see a group of eroded volcanic cones. Here we will be able to observe a mixture of different types of lava flows as well as colorful vegetation. At this point it is possible to see the 3 species of boobies as well as frigate birds, all nesting in the same area - unique to this spot in the entire archipelago.

Witch Hill “Cerro Brujo”– Kicker Rock (San Cristobal Island)

Visit Cerro Brujo to explore its coastline, and look for wildlife on the beach, in the water, and in the air. Learn about the human and natural history of the area from the Galápagos CEO/Naturalist Guide. Take a refreshing dip in the turquoise water, and head out on a short walk to a freshwater lagoon – a great place to see flamingos.

A short distance away and visible from shore is an Island called Leon Dormido, or "Kicker Rock," which resembles a sleeping lion. It is quite striking and if conditions are right we may be able to sail through a narrow channel which splits Kicker Rock in half. An incredible snorkeling spot, Kicker Rock is home to an incredibly diverse set of marine life in the nutrient-rich water.

Gardner Bay (Española Island)

Sailing south we arrive at Española Island is the southernmost island in the Galapagos archipelago. In the morning we visit Bahia Gardner and the small islands around the bay. We start the day with a walk on the white sandy beach home to a large colony of sea lions and a great chance to see them up close. After getting your picture taken with them we head out into the bay to the islands of Osborn and Gardner, two amazing snorkeling spots. We will keep our eye out for many varieties of fish species, rays and of course sea turtles.

Suarez Point (Española Island)

In the afternoon we will visit Punta Suarez on the western side of Española Island. Well known for its high jagged cliffs and being home to a multitude of bird species. Follow the trail through a rookery and learn the geological history of the island from our naturalist, including its dramatic volcanic features, climate, flora and fauna. If you are travelling between April to December you will be lucky to see the Waved Albatross, during its mating/nesting season.

Española is the nesting site to virtually the entire world population of this species, with more than 12000 pairs residing here. Large numbers of Masked and Blue-footed Boobies are also found here, Red-billed Tropic Birds dash madly through the air, and both Marine Iguanas and sea lions are common. A huge blowhole, where the surf is forced through a natural rock formation spouting seawater 15 to 20 m (49 – 66 ft) into the air, adds to the island’s impression of untamed beauty.

Post Office Bay (Floreana Island)

This morning we visit the famous Post Office Bay. A barrel was placed here in the late 18th century by English whaling vessels to be used as a post office. Passing ships would stop to leave mail for loved ones, collecting at the same time any mail destined for ports on their itineraries. Today the box is used mainly by tourists, who may drop off and pick up unstamped letters to be carried to far destinations.

The remains of a Norwegian canning factory are the only evidence of the Island’s history prior to its designation as a protected area. A short hike up past the post barrel takes you to an interesting lava cave. With the aid of a flashlight, you can descend about 80 m (262 ft) to the point where the sea enters the cave.

Cormorant Point (Floreana Island)

In the afternoon we visit Punta Cormorant on the northern part of Floreana. The landing is on a beach of green sand, colored by olivine crystals, volcanic-derived silicates of magnesium and iron. The trail leads to a lake normally inhabited by flamingos and other shore birds and continues to a beach of fine white sand particles known as “Flour Beach”, an important nesting site for turtles.

Around the point, Devil's Crown derives its name from the broken remains of a partially submerged volcanic cone. This is a perfect spot to go snorkeling from the boat, as the waters are home to a multitude of colorful fish and sea lions. Please make sure you are a comfortable swimmer, however, as despite the protection from the open sea provided by the "crown," the water here can be rough and the currents strong.

North Seymour Island

We will arrive early and go for a walk on North Seymour, just north of Baltra. Home to sea lions, marine iguanas, swallow-tailed gulls, magnificent frigate birds and blue-footed boobies. Seymour Island is an exciting photographic island. Bird life abounds, and close to the trail you will find many nesting pairs and young chicks.

Seymour is also home to the Galapagos’s largest colony of Magnificent Frigate Birds. Their mating ritual is an ostentatious display: males expand the red sack at the base of their throat and perch atop a bush with wings fully extended, flapping furiously. Interested females circle overhead, and if so inclined, may join the male on terra firma. Further along the trail we can observe a colony of sea lions.


Pinnacle Rock (Bartolome Island)

Arriving at Bartolomé Island in the mid-afternoon we will hike to the summit of the island provides a clearer perspective of the islands' not-too-distant volcanic origins, and the panoramic view is one of the best among the islands. From here are visible the double-sided beach of Bartolomé directly below, the volcanic tower rising out of the water next to it, and Santiago in the distance.

After the summit hike, stop at the beach to relax in semi-tropical tranquility. There is great snorkeling among the submerged volcanic rock and around the base of the tower. A short hike to the beach on the opposite side is worth the minimal effort. It is not unusual to see sharks in these shallow waters, and marine turtles nest here from January through March.

Darwin Bay (Genovesa Island)

Land at Genovesa Island, an old imploded volcano, to observe the massive colonies of Frigate Birds, Boobies and other seabirds as well as striking volcanic cliffs rising from the ocean.

Well to the north of the main Galapagos Island group, Genovesa Island itself is the shape of a horseshoe given it's volcanic history. The first landing is at a place called Darwin Bay for some fantastic snorkeling opportunities within the partially eroded crater on the south side of the island.

Prince Phillip´s Steps (Genovesa Island)

In the afternoon we will explore a place called "El Barranco," otherwise known as Prince Phillip's Steps, on the southern tip of the island. This site is a major breeding ground for red footed boobies and masked boobies can also be seen. Other birds like various species of finches can be seen as well as the Galapagos Mockingbird.

Plaza Sur Island

Enjoy a morning walk around South Plaza islet looking out for marine birds and sea lions swimming in the turquoise waters. Later, explore Santa Fé keeping a close eye out for land iguanas in the unique cactus forest.

Visit South Plaza, one of the smallest islands in the Galápagos, which has one of the largest populations of land iguanas. Walk along a path through a cactus forest and view a combination of dry and coastal vegetation on this lively island, home to a wide range of fauna, including incredible birdlife. Spot red-billed tropicbirds and indigenous swallow-tailed gulls resting on the cliffs, and sea lions playing in the waters.

Santa Fe Island

In the afternoon we arrive at Santa Fé, a fairly small and dry island. Santa Fé Island is well-known as a great place for watching (and swimming with) sea lions as well as finding land iguanas in the wild. Along the island's northern shore you can view the forest of giant Prickly Pear Cactus (Opuntia). Santa Fé is also home to a number of endemic species which have bounced back from various threats to their survival. You may get a chance to see the Galapagos hawk, Galapagos snake, a variety of finches and the Galapagos mockingbird.

Santa Cruz / Baltra Island

In the morning we arrive in Puerto Ayora, on Santa Cruz Island where we will visit the giant tortoises and lava tunnels in the highlands before heading to the airport and flying back to Quito. Disembark in Baltra. Transfer to the airport for the flight back to Quito.

San Cristóbal Airport

Early flight to San Cristóbal, in the Galapagos Islands. Upon arrival meet our naturalist guide who will assist with the transfer the Estrella Del Mar. After lunch we will travel about an hour to Isla Lobos. A great introduction to the Galapagos; Isla Lobs is the home to a small colony of sea lions and a great beach to walk along. The bay is clam and shallow, perfect for swimming and snorkeling with tropical fish and the sea lions.

Lobos Island (San Cristobal Island)

Snorkel right off the beach at peaceful Isla Lobos, amid the families of sea lions and their inquisitive pups looking to play. Spot nesting frigate birds and the famous blue-footed boobies resting on the shore. Be sure to bring your camera to catch some snaps at this prime wildlife watching haven.

Pitt Point (San Cristobal Island)

We land this morning at Punta Pitt, on the eastern tip of San Cristobal where we will see a group of eroded volcanic cones. Here we will be able to observe a mixture of different types of lava flows as well as colorful vegetation. At this point it is possible to see the 3 species of boobies as well as frigate birds, all nesting in the same area - unique to this spot in the entire archipelago.

Witch Hill “Cerro Brujo”– Kicker Rock (San Cristobal Island)

Visit Cerro Brujo to explore its coastline, and look for wildlife on the beach, in the water, and in the air. Learn about the human and natural history of the area from the Galápagos CEO/Naturalist Guide. Take a refreshing dip in the turquoise water, and head out on a short walk to a freshwater lagoon – a great place to see flamingos.

A short distance away and visible from shore is an Island called Leon Dormido, or "Kicker Rock," which resembles a sleeping lion. It is quite striking and if conditions are right we may be able to sail through a narrow channel which splits Kicker Rock in half. An incredible snorkeling spot, Kicker Rock is home to an incredibly diverse set of marine life in the nutrient-rich water.

Gardner Bay (Española Island)

Sailing south we arrive at Española Island is the southernmost island in the Galapagos archipelago. In the morning we visit Bahia Gardner and the small islands around the bay. We start the day with a walk on the white sandy beach home to a large colony of sea lions and a great chance to see them up close. After getting your picture taken with them we head out into the bay to the islands of Osborn and Gardner, two amazing snorkeling spots. We will keep our eye out for many varieties of fish species, rays and of course sea turtles.

Suarez Point (Española Island)

In the afternoon we will visit Punta Suarez on the western side of Española Island. Well known for its high jagged cliffs and being home to a multitude of bird species. Follow the trail through a rookery and learn the geological history of the island from our naturalist, including its dramatic volcanic features, climate, flora and fauna. If you are travelling between April to December you will be lucky to see the Waved Albatross, during its mating/nesting season.

Española is the nesting site to virtually the entire world population of this species, with more than 12000 pairs residing here. Large numbers of Masked and Blue-footed Boobies are also found here, Red-billed Tropic Birds dash madly through the air, and both Marine Iguanas and sea lions are common. A huge blowhole, where the surf is forced through a natural rock formation spouting seawater 15 to 20 m (49 – 66 ft) into the air, adds to the island’s impression of untamed beauty.

Post Office Bay (Floreana Island)

This morning we visit the famous Post Office Bay. A barrel was placed here in the late 18th century by English whaling vessels to be used as a post office. Passing ships would stop to leave mail for loved ones, collecting at the same time any mail destined for ports on their itineraries. Today the box is used mainly by tourists, who may drop off and pick up unstamped letters to be carried to far destinations.

The remains of a Norwegian canning factory are the only evidence of the Island’s history prior to its designation as a protected area. A short hike up past the post barrel takes you to an interesting lava cave. With the aid of a flashlight, you can descend about 80 m (262 ft) to the point where the sea enters the cave.

Cormorant Point (Floreana Island)

In the afternoon we visit Punta Cormorant on the northern part of Floreana. The landing is on a beach of green sand, colored by olivine crystals, volcanic-derived silicates of magnesium and iron. The trail leads to a lake normally inhabited by flamingos and other shore birds and continues to a beach of fine white sand particles known as “Flour Beach”, an important nesting site for turtles.

Around the point, Devil's Crown derives its name from the broken remains of a partially submerged volcanic cone. This is a perfect spot to go snorkeling from the boat, as the waters are home to a multitude of colorful fish and sea lions. Please make sure you are a comfortable swimmer, however, as despite the protection from the open sea provided by the "crown," the water here can be rough and the currents strong.

North Seymour Island /Baltra Airport

We will arrive early and go for a walk on North Seymour, just north of Baltra. Home to sea lions, marine iguanas, swallow-tailed gulls, magnificent frigate birds and blue-footed boobies. Seymour Island is an exciting photographic island. Bird life abounds, and close to the trail you will find many nesting pairs and young chicks.

Seymour is also home to the Galapagos’s largest colony of Magnificent Frigate Birds. Their mating ritual is an ostentatious display: males expand the red sack at the base of their throat and perch atop a bush with wings fully extended, flapping furiously. Interested females circle overhead, and if so inclined, may join the male on terra firma. Further along the trail we can observe a colony of sea lions.

Following this we transfer to the airport on Baltra Island for our flight to Quito. Flights from Baltra to Quito depart between 10:00am and 1:00pm depending on the day of the week. These will arrive into Quito between 2:30pm and 5:30pm with a refueling stop in Guayaquil (you will not disembark the plane).

Baltra Airport

Baltra at the northern point of Santa Cruz. Sailing after lunch we begin our cruise on the Estrella Del Mar.

Pinnacle Rock (Bartolome Island)

Arriving at Bartolomé Island in the mid-afternoon we will hike to the summit of the island provides a clearer perspective of the islands' not-too-distant volcanic origins, and the panoramic view is one of the best among the islands. From here are visible the double-sided beach of Bartolomé directly below, the volcanic tower rising out of the water next to it, and Santiago in the distance.

After the summit hike, stop at the beach to relax in semi-tropical tranquility. There is great snorkeling among the submerged volcanic rock and around the base of the tower. A short hike to the beach on the opposite side is worth the minimal effort. It is not unusual to see sharks in these shallow waters, and marine turtles nest here from January through March.

Darwin Bay (Genovesa Island)

Land at Genovesa Island, an old imploded volcano, to observe the massive colonies of Frigate Birds, Boobies and other seabirds as well as striking volcanic cliffs rising from the ocean.

Well to the north of the main Galapagos Island group, Genovesa Island itself is the shape of a horseshoe given it's volcanic history. The first landing is at a place called Darwin Bay for some fantastic snorkeling opportunities within the partially eroded crater on the south side of the island.

Prince Phillip´s Steps (Genovesa Island)

In the afternoon we will explore a place called "El Barranco," otherwise known as Prince Phillip's Steps, on the southern tip of the island. This site is a major breeding ground for red footed boobies and masked boobies can also be seen. Other birds like various species of finches can be seen as well as the Galapagos Mockingbird.

Plaza Sur Island

Enjoy a morning walk around South Plaza islet looking out for marine birds and sea lions swimming in the turquoise waters. Later, explore Santa Fé keeping a close eye out for land iguanas in the unique cactus forest.

Visit South Plaza, one of the smallest islands in the Galápagos, which has one of the largest populations of land iguanas. Walk along a path through a cactus forest and view a combination of dry and coastal vegetation on this lively island, home to a wide range of fauna, including incredible birdlife. Spot red-billed tropicbirds and indigenous swallow-tailed gulls resting on the cliffs, and sea lions playing in the waters.

Santa Fe Island

In the afternoon we arrive at Santa Fé, a fairly small and dry island. Santa Fé Island is well-known as a great place for watching (and swimming with) sea lions as well as finding land iguanas in the wild. Along the island's northern shore you can view the forest of giant Prickly Pear Cactus (Opuntia). Santa Fé is also home to a number of endemic species which have bounced back from various threats to their survival. You may get a chance to see the Galapagos hawk, Galapagos snake, a variety of finches and the Galapagos mockingbird.

Santa Cruz / Baltra Island

In the morning we arrive in Puerto Ayora, on Santa Cruz Island where we will visit the giant tortoises and lava tunnels in the highlands before heading to the airport and flying back to Quito. Disembark in Baltra. Transfer to the airport for the flight back to Quito.