The best of the Galápagos

Discover the islands that inspired Darwin

8 days
Overview

The best of the Galápagos

An 8-day adventure exploring the incredible Galápagos Islands, with their pristine nature and unique volcanic landscapes. The journey starts in Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage city, before flying to the Galápagos to encounter the archipelago’s most iconic species, from sea lions and penguins to giant tortoises and marine iguanas. Snorkeling, lava formation explorations, and visits to conservation centers provide a complete experience of the flora, fauna, and breathtaking landscapes of the main islands: San Cristóbal, Isabela, and Santa Cruz.
Price:
starting from

Euro 4.128

BOOK
Days
8 days
Tour language
English
Countries
Ecuador
Route
From Quito to Quito
Tour type
Small group
Group size
From 2 to 12 participants
Accomodation
3-star hotels
Meals
7 breakfasts, 3 lunches
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Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival, Quito and San Cristóbal Island
Your Galápagos adventure begins with a scenic morning flight from Quito to San Cristóbal Island. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno and attend a briefing. In the afternoon, explore La Lobería, a true paradise for Galápagos sea lions. You’ll also encounter the unique marine iguanas of the islands and enjoy a snorkeling session in the crystal-clear waters. Meals: not included
Day 2 Kicker Rock and Cerro Brujo
Start the day with an exciting speedboat trip to Kicker Rock, an impressive geological formation off San Cristóbal. Observe the spectacular aerial display of birds while tropical fish and sharks swim below. In the afternoon, head to Cerro Brujo, a lively area inhabited by sea lions, where you can snorkel and spot blue-footed boobies and Nazca boobies. Meals: breakfast and lunch (dinner not included)
Day 3 Isabela Island
Take a morning flight to Isabela Island, the largest in the Galápagos archipelago. Formed by six volcanoes, five of which are still active, it offers some of the most striking volcanic landscapes in the world. In the afternoon, explore its extraordinary ecosystem, encountering flamingos, marine iguanas, sea lions, and various bird species. Visit the giant tortoise breeding center and El Muro de las Lágrimas, a poignant reminder of the island’s penal colony past. End the day in Puerto Villamil to watch the sunset. Meals: breakfast (lunch and dinner not included)
Day 4 Las Tintoreras
Visit the nearby islet of Las Tintoreras for an unforgettable snorkeling experience in turquoise waters with white-tipped sharks, Galápagos penguins, sea turtles, and sea lions. Afterward, enjoy a walk along the island’s beaches framed by dense mangroves and observe the marine iguanas’ nesting sites. Meals: breakfast and lunch (dinner not included)
Day 5 Isabela Island
Explore the fascinating lava formations along the coast, spotting sea eagles, sea lions, a colorful array of fish, white-tipped sharks, and many other marine wonders. Witness sea turtles navigating the lava tunnels of Los Túneles from mangroves to open sea. Optionally, continue snorkeling at Concha de Perla or relax on the island’s pristine beaches. Meals: breakfast and lunch (dinner not included)
Day 6 Santa Cruz Island
Transfer to Santa Cruz Island for a half-day tour of Academy Bay, a marine paradise teeming with exotic fish. Swim and snorkel alongside sea lions and watch blue-footed boobies in flight. Visit a scenic viewpoint with a chance to spot white-tipped sharks, followed by a picturesque walk along Playa de los Perros, perfect for photography. Meals: breakfast (lunch and dinner not included)
Day 7 Charles Darwin Research Station
Spend the day at the Charles Darwin Research Station, a hub for scientific research and conservation in the Galápagos. Learn about the unique endemic species you’ve encountered and gain insights from researchers about the delicate balance of this ecosystem and ongoing conservation efforts. Meals: breakfast (lunch and dinner not included)
Day 8 Departure, Quito
The tour concludes upon arrival in Quito, with optional free time before your transfer to the airport. Meals: breakfast (lunch and dinner not included)

Includes

Guided tour with an English-speaking tour leader, accommodation in 3-star hotels, flights between Quito and the Galápagos Islands, snorkeling equipment, meal plan, activities, and transfers as per itinerary.

Does Not Include

Flights to/from Quito, airport taxes, transfers to/from Quito airport, Galápagos Transit Control Card (INGALA), Galápagos National Park entrance fee, wetsuit rental, dock use fee at Puerto Villamil, medical, cancellation and baggage insurance (mandatory), tips, personal expenses, and anything not expressly mentioned under “Includes.”

Important

Participation prices are updated at the time of publication. Please contact our Travel Designers to check for any changes and to find out whether special offers or promotions are currently available.

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