Picture sunset cocktails, snorkelling with wildlife, kayaking in turquoise waters off of pristine beaches and spending time tucked away in a boutique hotel overlooking some of the most impressive scenery in all of the Galápagos Islands. The perfect balance of activities, wildlife and free time, this eight-day adventure is packed full of the essential highlights and local flavours of Isabela and Santa Cruz Islands. Stay active in the water and on land with snorkelling excursions and walks along diverse coastal terrain. Savour deliciously fresh cuisine and have lunch at a private reserve featuring giant tortoises in the wild. You’ll learn how important this fascinating, diverse, remote span of islands is to the world, all while hitting the reset button during a tropical island getaway.
Quito: Gateway to the Gal?pagos Islands: Gaze out at the rolling countryside and mountain peaks as you approach Quito, dreaming of the faraway Gal?pagos Islands that are almost within your reach. Take in a breath of fresh mountain air as you step out of the plane, knowing that soon enough you will be in the equatorial warmth at sea level. We welcome you to Ecuador, and invite you to prepare for one of the most incredible wildlife destinations on the planet?the Gal?pagos Islands.
Isabela Island: Welcome to the Gal?pagos: The journey is part of the adventure today as you make your way 1000 km from Ecuador's mainland to the Gal?pagos Islands. Home to creatures found nowhere else in the world, the surrounding marine reserve is a showcase of evolution and a true testament to the melting pot of species found in the islands, both on shore and in the water.
Isabela Island: Your OMG Day: Today you will be able to explore more of Isabela Island on your terms with the choice of two activities. Stick to the land and hike the Sierra Negra Volcano, one of five active ones located on Isabela Island, and rising to an altitude of 1124m. If you are looking for more snorkelling, take to the water and head to Las Tintoreras, an islet to the south of Puerto Villamil that forms part of the national park of the Gal?pagos Islands. The area is known for the reef sharks that can be seen swimming with fish and other marine life when the tide is low.
Santa Cruz Island: Life in the Islands and Beach Time: Travel to the highlands to a private ranch to see giant tortoises in their natural habitat and visit some lava tunnels. After lunch, go to Garrapatero beach for some tidal pool gazing or wildlife spotting from the beach and around the lagoon. Before heading to town stop by an organic farm where you can learn about the hydroponic crops they are growing and how this technique is helping to protect the environment and reduce water usage within agriculture. This evening, it's time to say good-bye to the mighty Galapagos and there's no better way than with an optional dinner all together as a group.
Quito: Today your adventure comes to an end, and you can depart at any time.