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Galapagos Encompassed

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17 days

GALAPAGOS CRUISE - CENTRAL, NORTH, EAST, SOUTH & WEST ISLANDS: Uncover the natural beauty and wonderful wildlife of the Galapagos Islands on a 15-day cruise. Witness sunbathing sea lions in Elizabeth Bay, spot marine iguanas on Fernandina Island, and discover Galapagos Sea turtles near Bartolome Island. Enjoy scenic hikes to see volcanoes, stunning panoramic vistas and the iconic Pinnacle Rock. Explore Genovesa, Santa Fe, San Cristobal, Espanola, and Floreana islands. Begin and conclude your adventure with a night in Quito, Ecuador's charming capital.

For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes

Tour Overview

Duration

17 days

Starts

Quito

Ends

Quito

Range

Handpicked

Tour Guide

Yes - naturalist guide in the Galapagos

Group Size

Min 8 / Max 16

Minimum age

5 yrs, accompanied by an adult

Departs

Thursdays

Hotel Rating

3 star hotel & first class cruise

Countries

Ecuador, Galapagos

Arrival Transfer

Yes

Departure Transfer

No

Meals included

Breakfast: 16, Lunch: 14, Dinner: 14
Save 10% today
Per Person From
£9,255.00
£8,329.50
Deposit From
Final payment
£5,553.00
£11,106.00

Tour Highlights

The M/C Anahi - Spend 14 nights aboard this first-class catamaran with capacity for 16 passengers. Enjoy the jacuzzi with ocean view and soak up the sunshine on deck. Delight your palate with tasty local cuisine, relax at the bar as you cruise around the beautiful islands at sunset and enjoy comfortable nights in a spacious cabin
Explore unforgettable sites and observe incredible wildlife on daily excursions with expert guides. Go kayaking, enjoy panga rides and encounter penguins, turtles and fish as you snorkel and swim in the crystal-clear waters
Quito - Explore the UNESCO listed colonial city
Santa Cruz Island - Visit this favourite nesting site for sea turtles and home of the famous Charles Darwin Station with its turtle breeding centre
Isabela Island - Hike to see Sierra Negra volcano and incredible views, tour Las Tintoreras, and trek Urbina Bay
Cerro Azul & Fernandina - Marvel at these towering volcanos
Punta Espinoza – Walk across the barren wilderness of dark lava
Rabida Island - Stroll along this islands red sand beaches
Sombrero Chino Islet - Admire the beautiful sunrise over the islands
Bartolome Island - Embark on a tour of the island and witness the famous Pinnacle Rock
Genovesa Island - Find great frigate birds, the red-footed boobies and storm petrels
South Plazas Island - Explore and encounter the 1000's of sea lions that call it home
Santa Fe Island - Find its famous and unique species of land iguana
Punta Pitt - Discover the only place in the Galapagos to see the three species of boobies and two species of frigates nesting together
San Cristobal Island - Visit El Junco Lagoon and the Galapagos Tortoise Breeding Centre
Lobos Island - Marvel at the abundance of sea lions
Espanola Island - Journey to where the albatross is endemic and Gardner Bay, famous for its sea lion population
Floreana Island - Search for the flamingos that this island is renowned for

Included

2 nights 3 star hotel in Quito, standard room including breakfast. Option to upgrade to a suite upon request.
15 day Galapagos Cruise - 14 nights onboard the M/C Anahi catamaran (First Class category) in a twin or double cabin, on the main deck with en suite and A/C. Option to upgrade to a suite upon request.
15 breakfasts, 14 lunches and 14 dinners
Quito airport arrival transfer on day 1 with an English speaking guide
Return flight between Quito and Baltra - Galapagos including airport and port transfers
Complementary soft drinks onboard (tea, coffee and water) plus welcome and farewell drinks
The services of 9 crew members and an experienced English speaking Naturalist guide
Two guided Galapagos excursions a day
Kayaking and snorkelling at the permitted points (wetsuits can be hired onboard for an additional fee)

Not Included

International flights and visas
Airport departure transfer on day 10
Tips for the crew, your guide and drivers.
Galapagos National Park entrance fee (US$200pp) and Migration Control Card (US$20pp). Subject to change

Itinerary

Day 1 - Quito

Upon arrival at Quito airport you will be met by an English speaking guide and transferred to your hotel in the city. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, independently exploring.

Overnight: Quito

Day 2 - Baltra Island & Santa Cruz

Quito - Galapagos. This morning you will be met and transferred back to Quito airport for the short flight to Baltra Airport in the Galapagos, where you will meet our Galapagos guide. After a short bus ride and crossing of the Itabaca Channel we travel for around an hour to a private ranch on the highlands of Santa Cruz, where we enjoy lunch.

After lunch our guide will lead us on a stroll through a stunning forest brimming with ferns, sedges, and miconias. On this journey, there's a chance to witness giant tortoises in their natural habitat. Later, we venture to one of the numerous lava tunnels in the area where we take a brief walk, marvelling at the remnants of a forceful volcanic eruption that took place millions of years ago.

Following this, we proceed to Puerto Ayora and board the yacht which will be home for the next 14 nights. Enjoy an official welcome drink followed by dinner. Post-dinner, our guide will outline the activities scheduled for the next day, along with some general advice for those visiting the Galapagos Islands.

Overnight: Galapagos Islands - M/C Anahi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 - Isabela Island & Las Tintoreras

Isabela is the name of the largest and the youngest island within the Galapagos Archipelago and we start the day visiting the islets of Las Tintoreras. These islets boast a small bay with tranquil turquoise waters, affording us the opportunity to witness an array of marine life: from sea lions and sea turtles to marine iguanas, stingrays, and a multitude of other aquatic species. Next, we walk along a pathway and discover two beaches. The first one is a favoured haven for sea lions and marine iguanas that call the area their nesting ground. The second beach finds itself surrounded by button mangroves (Conocarpus erecta) and white mangroves (Laguncularia racemosa). Leaving Las Tintoreras we head to Puerto Villamil from which we travel to Sierra Negra Volcano that rises to an altitude of 1124 meters.

In the afternoon we explore the wetlands of Los Humedales where we can witness a variety of wetland birds. Returning to Puerto Villamil we have some free time to explore the town before returning to the boat for the evening.

Overnight: Galapagos Islands - M/C Anahi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 - Punta Moreno & Elizabeth Bay

Today begins in Punta Moreno where we hike a 2100-meter trail that offers panoramic views of Sierra Negra, Cerro Azul, and Fernandina volcanoes, the three most active in all the Galapagos. At the end of the trail we can do a surface dive in the brisk waters where marine life is abundant. We then return to the yacht for lunch and a rest before heading out again.

Heading into Elizabeth Bay we visit a picturesque cove surrounded by red mangroves. This is a fantastic spot to see sea turtles, flightless cormorants, spotted eagle rays, golden rays, brown pelicans and sea lions. With Galapagos falcons above and Mahi-mahi fish below this stunning site is home to numerous marine and terrestrial flora and fauna for visitors to marvel at. Following this we return to the yacht for the night.

Overnight: Galapagos Islands - M/C Anahi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 - Urbina Bay, Tagus Cove & Lake Darwin

At the foot of Alcedo volcano Urbina Bay is linked to the shore by an approximately 3200-meter pathway. Upon making a beach landing, our journey continues through the coastal expanse, navigating a varied terrain of sand, rocks, lava formations, corals, and flourishing plant life. Here we can see large sized land iguanas, as well as giant Galapagos tortoises, flightless cormorants, blue-footed boobies, Galapagos penguins, pelicans, and marine iguanas.

We return to the yacht to enjoy a delicious lunch before sailing to Tagus Cove where we can snorkel, surface dive, or kayak in the pristine blue water. Following our swim we hike up to the top of a cliff which gives offers a picturesque view of Lake Darwin. Volcanic rocks of various sizes can be found around the lake, including almost perfect spheres of “petrified rain.”

Overnight: Galapagos Islands - M/C Anahi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 - Fernandina Island & Punta Vicente Roca

The third largest island of the archipelago is Fernandina and has one unique attraction. Situated at the remote north eastern edge of the island, Punta Espinoza is a slender expanse crafted from lava and sand, stretching from the volcano's base to the ocean's edge. This area is known for the abundance of marine iguanas, and its unique fauna full of species such as the flightless cormorant, the Galapagos penguin, the Galapagos falcon, and the Galapagos racer snake. There may also be the opportunity to snorkel with the local marine fauna, maybe even seahorses!

Punta Vicente Roca is the location of an ancient volcano where we can snorkel and will then either experience a panga ride along the cliffs of the volcano or explore a partially submerged cave. Watch the Nazca and blue-footed boobies along the cliffs and the flightless cormorants on the shore. Returning to the ship we will cross the equator and celebrate with a special cocktail.

Overnight: Galapagos Islands - M/C Anahi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7 - Santiago Island & Rabida Island

Starting the day on Santiago Island we will hike along the black sand beaches of Puerto Egas to spot many marine species, such as the iguanas relaxing on the rocks, and the sea lions resting in the tidal pools. Snorkelling here is a new experience due to its relatively different landscape compared to the previous locations.

Moving on to Rabida Island and its red rocks and sand we enjoy a snorkelling activity, learning more about the local marine life. Then a short trail walk leads us to a picturesque lagoon filled with terrestrial birds such as finches, pigeons, yellow warblers and mockingbirds. A colony of flamingos also calls this lagoon its home meaning we may catch a glimpse of these beautiful pink birds.

Overnight: Galapagos Islands - M/C Anahi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8 - Sombrero Chino & Bartolome Island

The sun dawning on the stunning “Sombrero Chino” channel offers panoramic views as we arrive at the day's first destination. We walk a 700-meter trail in order to view the wildlife and observe the geological characteristics of this island. This landscape is the home of colonies of sea lions, marine iguanas, and sometimes even Galapagos penguins. Swimming in this picturesque bay we will be amongst sharks, stingrays, and many unique species of fish.

Bartolome Island, a renowned destination in the Galapagos, stands just off Sullivan Bay, close to Santiago Island. On arrival we can swim around the iconic Pinnacle Rock and navigating the submerged rocks that form an enthralling underwater maze for marine life. Later, we walk up to the island's summit to witness an array of captivating volcanic features, including volcanic bombs, ash cones, lava flows, and lava tubes. This moon-like landscape offers one of the most striking views in the entire archipelago. Our second stop leads us to a serene beach, perfect for relaxation and snorkelling. Beneath the waters, a multitude of multi-coloured fish await, and you might even be fortunate enough to spot penguins and sea turtles near the base of the dominating Pinnacle Rock, which defines Bartolome's landscape.

Overnight: Galapagos Islands - M/C Anahi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9 - Santa Cruz Island & Bachas Beach

North Seymour is a small island located to the north of Baltra and will act as our next visit on the itinerary, and we will be able to observe the land iguanas of Baltra.

Our next port of call is the Bachas Beaches which are a favourite nesting site for sea turtles. These two small beaches are found to the West of Turtle Cove on Santa Cruz Island. Behind one of the beaches there is a small brackish water lagoon, where occasionally it is possible to observe flamingos and other coastal birds, such as black-necked stilts and whimbrels. This area is a great introduction to the Galapagos landscape, fauna and flora.

Overnight: Galapagos Islands - M/C Anahi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10 - Genovesa Island

This morning we visit Darwin Bay on Genovesa Island which has a shield volcano with a 600m wide crater. Following a trail which is part coral sand and part slabs of lava, we'll spot nesting colonies of the common frigate, the Nasca booby and the swallow-tailed gulls. We'll also see nests of red-footed booby, which is the largest nesting colony of pelagic birds in the Galapagos. The Great Frigate bird is also abundant here and one of the main attractions of the island.

This afternoon's port of call is El Barranco, in the southern part of Darwin Bay on Genovesa Island. The 1.5km trail is on volcanic rock and the cliffs located in the south are composed of very fragile lava. The natural erosion that has occurred in these lava flows has become the ideal place for nesting Storm Petrels. You can see two species of petrels that nest in cavities and holes in the lava. During the panga (dingy) rides along the cliffs fur seals can also be seen.

Overnight: Galapagos Islands - M/C Anahi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11 - South Plaza Island & Santa Fe

This morning's excursion takes us to South Plaza Island which is home to around 1000 sea lions and several hybrid iguanas, a result of crossing a male marine iguana and a female land iguana. These iguanas are unique, recognizable at first glance by their black or gray colour, with a land iguana's crest, but face and tail of the marine iguana.

We'll meet more unique species of iguanas when we explore Santa Fe Island this afternoon. The Galapagos is also home to six endemic species of rats, one of which can be found on Santa Fe and another attraction is the presence of giant tunas.

Overnight: Galapagos Islands - M/C Anahi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12 - San Cristobal Island

This morning we explore Punta Pitt at the east end of San Cristobal Island. The trail that we follow takes us to past an olivine beach before ascending to the top of a volcanic tuff hill passing several wonderful viewpoints en route. This is the only site in the Galapagos Islands, where you can see the three species of boobies and two species of frigates nesting in the same area. Another added attraction is the presence of sea lion.

After lunch we stop to see the Leon Dormido Rocks, which are the remains of a lava cone eroded by the sea. The two vertical rocks rising 500 feet from the ocean form a small channel that is navigable by small boats. This natural monument has become a favourite sight for cruises due to the many tropic birds, frigates and boobies that fill the surrounding air. Beneath the sea the nearly crystal-clear waters offer a brilliant show of colourful tropical fish and invertebrates. We continue on to explore Lobos Island which is home to a small population of blue-footed boobies, as well as two species of sea lions. In the pangas brown pelicans and several species of shorebirds can also be observed and if you opt to snorkel it's common to see juvenile sea lions, manta rays and sea turtles.

Overnight: Galapagos Islands - M/C Anahi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13 - Galapagos Tortoise Breeding Centre

Today's highlight is a visit to the Galapagos Tortoise Breeding Centre, in the southeast of San Cristobal Island. The natural population of tortoises from San Cristobal is seriously threatened by introduced animals (mainly wild goats, rats and cats), which to date has been impossible to eradicate despite continuing efforts. The San Cristobal tortoises are one of the 11 populations of Galapagos tortoises. At the visitors centre, we learn all about the natural history of the giant tortoises of this island.

After lunch we visit San Cristobal's Interpretation Centre which takes us through the history of the island in the context of nature, humankind and conservation. We finish today's touring with a scenic walk up Tijeretas Hill with its spectacular views of the island and an inlet where we can go snorkelling. It is also one of the only places where you can watch the two species of frigate birds nesting in the same colony.

Overnight: Galapagos Islands - M/C Anahi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14 - Espanola Island

Espanola is one of the most beautiful Galapagos Islands and is also one of the oldest, dating back an estimated 3.3 million years. Espanola has a high percentage of endemism because it is isolated from other islands. Endemic species include the Waved albatross, Darwin's finches and the mockingbird of Espanola, which is the largest species in the islands and has developed carnivorous behaviour. We explore Punta Suarez on the west of the island in the morning and Gardener Bay on the north coast in the afternoon. The main attraction here is the huge colony of sea lions, which inhabit the beach during the breeding season.

Overnight: Galapagos Islands - M/C Anahi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 15 - Floreana Island

Floreana Island is our port of call today. We enjoy a morning excursion to Punta Cormorant on the north Coast of Floreana Island, which has a beautiful lagoon that is home to a large population of flamingos and a fine sand beach which is a nesting area for sea turtles. Later this morning we cruise out in the panga to the "Devil's Crown" which is a great place to snorkel. Here we can find a variety of underwater characters: sea turtles, Galapagos Sharks, Moray Eels, and sea lions. Outside of the crown is a good place to see Hammerhead Sharks.

This afternoon we visit historic Post Office Bay. When whalers came for supplies of Galapagos tortoises in the 18th Century, it is said that the captains kept a barrel for those who passed through the bay to leave mail in and deliver any that they could. Today, this tradition is alive with tourists visiting the Galapagos, It's possible to send a letter or postcard from Post Office Bay a without stamp, all you have to do in return is pick up a letter that is directed to where you live.

Overnight: Galapagos Islands - M/C Anahi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 16 - Santa Cruz & Return to Quito

We finish our Galapagos adventure in Santa Cruz this morning with a morning tour of Charles Darwin Station, which takes in the famous tortoise breeding centre. The Galapagos breeding program is conducted by the park staff with the collaboration of scientists from the Darwin Station. The eggs are brought from the Galapagos Islands of Pinzon, Santiago and Santa Cruz to the station where they are incubated artificially; the galapaguitos are born and reared until the age of 5 years, when they can survive the effects of introduced predators (rats, pigs and dogs), then they are returned to their native areas. There is also a breeding program for iguanas.

After this visit, you'll be transferred to the airport on Baltra Island for your flight back to Quito. Upon arrival you'll be met and transferred to your hotel in Quito for your final night.

Overnight: Quito
Meals: Breakfast

Day 17 - Quito

Saturday. Arrangements end after breakfast and hotel check out today.

Meals: Breakfast

Extras and add-ons

If you'd like to add extras or add-ons to your booking, you can do this easily during checkout. Just review the available options and select any additional services or upgrades you'd like before completing your purchase.

Pre and Post Tour Accommodation

Extend your tour with us by booking pre and post-accommodation, available at a per-person, per-night rate.

Pre tour accommodation Quito

Double

£35per passenger

Twin

£35per passenger

Single

£55per passenger

Post tour accommodation Quito

Double

£35per passenger

Twin

£35per passenger

Single

£65per passenger

Additional Excursions

Enhance your tour with these optional extras, helping you to get the most from your adventure.

Ikala Quito Hotel Suite Upgrade (per person)

Upgrade to a suite at the Ikala Hotel in Quito on the first and last night - price is per person for the two nights.

£45

per passenger

Accommodation

The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.

Click here to see more information about the ships used on this and similar tours.

If you are interested in booking pre or post-tour accommodation, here are some of the hotels we typically use.

Ikala Quito Hotel
Quito

Inspired by the rich history and culture of Ecuador, the Ikala Quito Hotel's 44 rooms are housed in three grand colonial houses which were once home to Ecuadorian aristocracy. Offering a choice of standard rooms or deluxe suites, there's tasteful decor in abundance and artwork painted on canvas or directly onto the walls. Rooms feature ensuite bathrooms and there is free Wi-Fi throughout the property. As well as the onsite restaurant and bar, there are plenty of outdoor areas, including patios, gardens, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views over the city.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
M/C Anahi Yacht
Galapagos Islands

The M/C Anahi is meticulously designed to provide travellers with an unforgettable and immersive experience while exploring the enchanting Galapagos Islands. This first class vessel boasts an elegant and modern design, with a maximum capacity of just 16 passengers, providing an intimate setting. The catamaran offers spacious and well-appointed cabins which are tastefully decorated and equipped with large windows, allowing guests to wake up to breath-taking views of the Galapagos Islands. Each en suite cabin is air-conditioned and furnished with cozy amenities to create a tranquil retreat after a day of exploration. There are six standard cabins located on the main deck (four twin and two double). On the upper deck the vessel has two suites, equipped with a double bed and sofa bed. Each day the chef serves a delectable range of dishes inspired by both local and international cuisines. Meals are prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and dining is a delightful experience in the spacious dining area, complete with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Guests can soak in the beauty of the Galapagos Islands from the observation decks and lounges strategically positioned throughout the yacht. Whether you're stargazing or soaking up the sunshine, enjoying a cocktail at the bar or relaxing in the jacuzzi, these areas provide the perfect vantage point to appreciate the natural wonders of the archipelago. The M/C Anahi offers an enriching experience with certified naturalist guides who are passionate about the Galapagos Islands and its wildlife. These experts lead daily excursions and share their knowledge about the unique flora and fauna that call these islands home. The Anahi's itinerary includes a range of thrilling activities, such as snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking, allowing guests to get up close and personal with the incredible wildlife and landscapes of the Galapagos.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 star cruise boat

Prices & Dates

The cruise operates with a minimum of 8 persons. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people sharing a room/cabin. 'Single' prices are applicable to those who don’t have anyone to share a room/cabin with or anyone wanting the privacy of a single room/cabin. Upgrades to a suite cabin and hotel suite are subject to availability, please contact us for rates.

As places are limited on our Galapagos Cruises, please contact us via email or telephone to check availability and to make a reservation.

2024
Twin/Double
Single
12 Dec - 28 Dec
£9,225
£13,635
26 Dec - 11 Jan
£9,225
£13,635
2025
Twin/Double
Single
9 Jan - 25 Jan
Save 10%
£9,255£8,330
£13,675£12,308
23 Jan - 8 Feb
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£9,255£8,330
£13,675£12,308
6 Feb - 22 Feb
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£9,255£8,330
£13,675£12,308
20 Feb - 8 Mar
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£9,255£8,330
£13,675£12,308
6 Mar - 22 Mar
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£9,255£8,330
£13,675£12,308
20 Mar - 5 Apr
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£9,255£8,330
£13,675£12,308
3 Apr - 19 Apr
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£9,255£8,330
£13,675£12,308
17 Apr - 3 May
Save 10%
£9,255£8,330
£13,675£12,308
2026
Twin/Double
Single
8 Jan - 24 Jan
£9,275
£13,695
22 Jan - 7 Feb
£9,275
£13,695
5 Feb - 21 Feb
£9,275
£13,695
19 Feb - 7 Mar
£9,275
£13,695
5 Mar - 21 Mar
£9,275
£13,695
19 Mar - 4 Apr
£9,275
£13,695
2 Apr - 18 Apr
£9,275
£13,695
16 Apr - 2 May
£9,275
£13,695

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