Enchanted Isles

We recommend booking a flight arriving early into Baltra to take full advantage of today’s programme.

Option 1 – Arrival before 12:00 PMOn arrival at Baltra Airport, we are met by an English-speaking guide and transfer to Puerto Ayora for lunch. Afterwards, we travel by speedboat to Isabela Island. The crossing can be rough, so a waterproof jacket and motion sickness tablets are advisable if needed.

On arrival, we are met by a driver and visit Flamingo Lagoon, where these elegant birds are often seen feeding in the shallow waters. We then transfer to the hotel for check-in.

Lunch included.Accommodation at Hotel San Vicente or similar.

Option 2 – Arrival after 12:00 PMIf your flight arrives after midday, we remain on Santa Cruz Island as the last boat to Isabela departs at approximately 3:00 PM. Lunch is not included.

If time allows, you may visit either Tortuga Bay or the Charles Darwin Research Station.

This morning, we explore the wetlands of Isabela. We visit the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre, where we see both young and adult tortoises in a protected natural setting. We continue to the Wall of Tears - a historic site built by prisoners during the island’s penal colony period - and explore a nearby lava tunnel.

The surrounding landscape features coastal lagoons and volcanic formations, with striking vegetation typical of the Galapagos shoreline.

After lunch and a short rest, we head to Tintoreras Islet. A short boat ride takes us across the bay from Puerto Villamil. Here, white-tip reef sharks - locally known as tintoreras - are often seen resting in shallow channels. We walk across volcanic rock, so sturdy closed shoes are required.

Please note - the wetlands walk lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours.

Early this morning, we depart by boat from Puerto Villamil to Los Tuneles - one of the most renowned snorkelling sites in the Galapagos.

Formed by ancient lava flows, this area features natural arches and calm, clear waters that are ideal for wildlife viewing. While snorkelling, we may encounter sea turtles, marine iguanas, sea lions, manta rays, penguins, and a variety of fish and seabirds.

The excursion lasts around 6 hours, including boat transfers, a light snack, and a short walk.

We take an early morning speedboat to Santa Cruz Island. On arrival, we have breakfast before visiting the Charles Darwin Research Station. Here, we learn about conservation efforts and see giant tortoises up close.

After lunch at a local restaurant, we visit Tortuga Bay - known for its white sand and turquoise waters. Wildlife such as marine iguanas, pelicans, and occasionally flamingos can be seen here. The beach is reached via a 2.5 km paved path, taking approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Swimming is possible in designated areas.You may return by boat in the late afternoon at an additional cost.

After breakfast, we travel by boat to Santa Fe Island, located in the centre of the archipelago. The island is home to unique species, including the endemic Barrington land iguana.

Following a 45-minute crossing, we arrive in a sheltered bay for snorkelling. Afterwards, we visit either Playa Escondida or Garrapatero Beach on Santa Cruz Island, where we make a wet landing and explore the coastline.

Please note - this excursion is known as ‘Pesca Vivencial’, and may include a traditional fishing demonstration depending on weather and park regulations.A wet landing means stepping into shallow water when disembarking - bringing spare clothing is recommended.

This morning, we take a boat tour around the bay near Puerto Ayora. We first visit La Loberia, home to colonies of sea lions. We then continue to Punta Camaño Islet, where we snorkel alongside marine life.

Next, we explore the Channel of Love - a narrow, tranquil inlet formed by volcanic fissures - followed by a short walk to Playa de los Perros.

In the afternoon, we travel to the highlands of Santa Cruz. On a privately owned ranch, we take a short walk to observe giant tortoises roaming freely in their natural habitat.

After breakfast, we transfer to Baltra Airport with a Spanish-speaking driver for your onward flight to Quito or Guayaquil.