5-day Galapagos wildlife discovery tour
Get to know the wildlife of the central Galápagos island, Santa Cruz, on this wonderful five-day trip featuring a perfect balance of exciting excursions and leisure time. Surrounded by white sandy beaches and turquoise sea that offer a stark contrast to the rugged landscape of the Galapagos, you'll enjoy a truly extraordinary trip filled with wildlife and wonder.
In the green highlands of Santa Cruz, home to primeval giant tortoises, observe the young tortoises at the Charles Darwin breeding station. You'll then explore two uninhabited islands, accompanied by an experienced naturalist guide, to spot everything from frigatebirds, pelicans and Darwin's finches to playful sea lions and marine iguanas roaming the beaches. The sea life is no-less impressive, with tropical fish, sea turtles, sharks and rays beneath the waves.
Services
Included:
- 4 nights accommodation in a double room in a three or four-star hotel
- 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches
- Airport transfers on arrival & departure days
- Activities & admission fees to sites as per the itinerary
- English-speaking guide on excursions
- Snorkeling equipment on the Galapagos boat excursions
Excluded:
- International & domestic flights
- Travel insurance
- Visa fees
- Any meals & drinks not mentioned in the itinerary
- Any activities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Galapagos National Park admission fee (payable in cash upon arrival)
- Galapagos Transit Control Card (TCT) (payable in cash before departure)
Optional:
- Kayaking in Tortuga Bay
Itinerary at a Glance
Baltra - Puerto Ayora
Visit the magnificent giant tortoises
Puerto Ayora
Tour the stunning bay of Santa Cruz
Puerto Ayora - Bartolome - Puerto Ayora
Discover intriguing uninhabited islands
Puerto Ayora - Seymour Norte - Puerto Ayora
More wonderful wildlife adventures
Puerto Ayora - Baltra
Departure day
Detailed Itinerary
Baltra - Puerto Ayora
Day 1: Visit the magnificent giant tortoises
After arriving at Baltra Airport, you will be met by a local guide. On your way to Puerto Ayora, stop at a local farm in the highlands, where dozens of giant tortoises live. Wander among them to appreciate these majestic creatures, before enjoying lunch and continuing to your destination.
In the afternoon, visit the Charles Darwin Research Station. Witness first-hand the work of international scientists who come to the Galapagos to carry out environmental projects. Head to the nearby Fausto Llerena Breeding Center, where giant Galapagos tortoises breed and are cared for. This is the best place on the islands to see different tortoise species and learn more about each of them and their fascinating lives.
Puerto Ayora
Day 2: Tour the stunning bay of Santa Cruz
In the afternoon, embark on a bay tour by small boat to visit exotic places along the bay of Santa Cruz. You'll visit at least one of these fantastic sites - or more if time allows.
Begin with the small islet of La Loberia, named for the great colony of sea lions that reside here. Snorkel amongst them and swim alongside the tropical fish beneath the waves, all with a backdrop of incredible underwater formations.
Afterwards, at Shark Channel, spend time spotting harmless whitetip sharks and blue-footed boobies, then stumble upon the Canal del Amor, a great place to find sea turtles and many varieties of tropical fish.
Head ashore for a short 10-minute walk to see marine iguanas in their natural habitat, with plenty of opportunities for photography. Lastly, return to Puerto Ayora to spend the rest of the evening at leisure.
Puerto Ayora - Bartolome - Puerto Ayora
Day 3: Discover intriguing uninhabited islands
Embark on an unforgettable adventure to explore the stunning beauty of the Galapagos Islands. During this part of the trip, you'll have the chance to visit Santa Fe, South Plaza, Bartolome, or North Seymour, depending on the permit granted by the National Park authorities for that day's activities.
Set sail and witness the awe-inspiring vista of turquoise waters and the rocky shorelines of the archipelago. An expert guide will lead a hike to explore the untouched natural habitats of the islands, and discover an array of exotic flora and fauna.
After a morning of exploration, take a break back on-board for a scrumptious lunch, before continuing the journey. Relax on the pristine beaches and soak up the sun, or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters for a refreshing swim. Afterwards, return to Puerto Ayora, invigorated and inspired by the natural wonders of the Galapagos Islands.
Puerto Ayora - Seymour Norte - Puerto Ayora
Day 4: More wonderful wildlife adventures
Another day, another boat trip to an uninhabited island - but this time, you'll be taken to a different location. Enjoy incredible opportunities to see the protected landscape and spot the endemic wildlife in its natural habitat. The boat trip itself is a joy, as you sail through the magnificent ocean scenery. Then, back on dry land, enjoy the evening in the laid-back town of Puerto Ayora.
Puerto Ayora - Baltra
Day 5: Departure day
Today, your driver will meet you at the hotel and transfer you back to the airport, with plenty of time to commence your journey home. Safe travels!
