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Overview
Explore the stunning wildlife and volcanic landscapes of the Western Galapagos Islands on a 5-day cruise aboard the luxurious Santa Cruz II. This itinerary takes you to iconic sites like Isabela, Fernandina, and Floreana islands, where you’ll encounter species unique to the Galapagos, including flightless cormorants, marine iguanas, and Galapagos penguins. With daily excursions that include snorkeling, hiking, and wildlife observation, this adventure offers a deep dive into the natural beauty and ecological diversity of the archipelago.
Detailed Itinerary
Your journey begins at Dragon Hill on the northern shore of Santa Cruz Island. The trail takes you past a brackish lagoon frequented by shorebirds and flamingos, leading to a lookout with panoramic views of the western islands. You’ll also encounter land iguanas basking in the sun, a fascinating introduction to the wildlife of the Galapagos.
Meal: Lunch & Dinner
Start with a dinghy ride along Punta Vicente Roca on Isabela Island. This region is known for its unique geology and abundant marine life, where you might see flightless cormorants, penguins, and green sea turtles. In the afternoon, explore Punta Espinoza on Fernandina Island, the youngest and one of the most pristine in the archipelago. Marvel at the dense population of marine iguanas and the diverse species that thrive in this untouched environment.
Meal: Breakfast, lunch and Dinner
Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, home to a giant tortoise breeding program and the heart of Galapagos conservation efforts. Afterward, head to the lush highlands for a different perspective of the island’s ecosystem, where giant tortoises roam freely among volcanic landscapes and tropical vegetation.
Meal: Breakfast, lunch and Dinner
Begin with a visit to Post Office Bay, where a 200-year-old tradition of leaving and collecting postcards continues. Afterward, explore the underwater wonders around Champion Islet, one of the best snorkeling sites in the archipelago. End the day with a walk along Cormorant Point’s olivine beaches, observing flamingos and other bird species around its lagoon.
Meal: Breakfast, lunch and Dinner
Conclude your Galapagos adventure with a final stop at Baltra Island, where you’ll disembark for your flight back to the mainland.
Meal: Breakfast
Gallery
Inclusions
Flights
Flights in economy class between Quito and Baltra, all taxes included
Transfers
Transfers between the airport and the ship in Baltra
Extras
Galápagos Islands National Park admission fee
Transit Control Card for the Galápagos Islands
Access to the airport lounge at the Quito (or Guayaquil) airport upon return from the Galápagos Islands for guests flying internationally on the day of disembarkation
Expedition Cruise
Stay in a cabin of your choice
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including beverages*
Complimentary tea and coffee
Complimentary Wi-Fi on board†
Complimentary reusable water bottle
English-speaking Expedition Team who organize and guide activities, both on board and ashore
Range of included activities
Complimentary wetsuit rental
Welcome and farewell cocktails
*House beer and wine, sodas, and mineral water
†Please note that Wi-Fi and phone reception are very limited in the remote areas where we travel, and streaming is not supported.
Onboard activities
In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by experts on the Expedition Team
Use of our Science Center, which features a small library and microscope
The Citizen Science Program allows guests to contribute to ongoing scientific research projects.
Our onboard professional photographer will give photography tips and teach techniques for capturing landscape and wildlife photos.
Use of the ship’s hot tubs and gym
Join informal gatherings with the crew for daily briefings.
Landing activities
Escorted landings with small panga boats
Loan of boots, trekking poles, and all equipment needed for the activities
Expedition photographers will be on hand to assist you.
Notes
All planned activities are subject to weather conditions
Your flight from Baltra will go to Quito. If you wish to end your expedition in Guayaquil, please advise your booking agent.
Quito’s altitude is approximately 9,350 feet above sea level. You may experience mild altitude sickness during your stay.
Excursions and activities are subject to change
Please ensure you meet all entry and boarding requirements
No gratuities are expected
Exclusions
International flights
Additional overnight(s) if required due to international flight timings
Travel Insurance
Luggage handling
Notes
Accommodation
Accommodation onboard the ship.
Highlights
Immerse yourself in immaculately preserved colonial buildings, vibrant plazas, and historic churches.
Stand on the Equator and capture memorable moments with one foot in each hemisphere.
Spot land iguanas on Dragon Hill and observe unique bird species like American flamingos and shorebirds.
Explore the striking geology of Isabela Island and snorkel alongside marine life including sea turtles and fur seals.
Learn about giant tortoise conservation and observe newly hatched tortoises and Darwin’s finches.
Travel Tips
Pay attention to the meeting details provided upon arrival in Galapagos.
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for hot weather. Remember that Galapagos has a humid climate and its ambient temperature is above 22 degrees Celsius.
Take your identity card or passport with you, especially on your transfers in and out of the Galapagos Islands.
Remember that traveling by cruise ship can cause seasickness, we recommend that you take sea sickness pills with you. These can only be taken once a day.
Be aware of the environmental impact and follow the national park’s rules on conservation and respect for nature.
Weather Preparedness
It is advisable to bring a windbreaker jacket for when you want to enjoy the best view of the Galapagos Islands in our open air area.
Fitness Requirements
Within our excursions or water activities the effort is minimal compared to the great experience you will have in the Galapagos Islands.
Rates are based on 3 star hotels, in case of upgrade please let us know enable quote accordingly.
All prices are indicative and starting from prices. Final price will be available based on availability and dates of travel.