Galápagos Islands Cruise CME

Day 1–2: Quito, Ecuador Exploration

Arrive in Quito, where a representative will meet you and transfer you to Go Quito Hotel. Founded in the 16th century on the ruins of an Inca city and situated at 2,850 m above sea level, Quito is home to one of the best-preserved historic centers in Latin America. Its monasteries, churches, and colonial architecture reflect a rich blend of Spanish, Italian, Moorish, Flemish, and indigenous artistic influences.

Enjoy a guided walk through Quito’s Old Town, where 16th-century architecture, ornate churches, and baroque convents bring the city’s history to life. After lunch, travel approximately 11 miles (18 km) north of the city to visit the Middle of the World Complex, home to the Equator Monument located at 0°0′0″ latitude.

Days 3–4: Arrival & Western Galápagos Exploration

Fly from Quito to Baltra Island in the Galápagos Islands, where naturalist guides will escort you aboard the M/Y Coral I or Coral II. Begin with a panga ride through the mangrove lagoons of Black Turtle Cove on Santa Cruz Island, home to sea turtles, rays, sharks, and herons. Continue west to Isabela Island and Fernandina Island to explore dramatic volcanic coastlines, snorkel with penguins and green turtles at Punta Vicente Roca, and observe large colonies of marine iguanas and flightless cormorants at Punta Espinosa.

Days 5–6: Volcanoes, Lava Fields & Wildlife Encounters

Explore the geologically fascinating landscapes of Isabela Island, including Urbina Bay, where uplifted coral formations, land iguanas, and giant tortoises can often be seen near Alcedo Volcano. At historic Tagus Cove, once visited by Charles Darwin, hike past Darwin Lake and volcanic scenery before snorkeling or kayaking alongside penguins, turtles, and cormorants. Continue to Santiago Island to walk across black volcanic sand beaches at Egas Port and observe Galápagos fur seals along the rocky shoreline. Sullivan Bay offers an unforgettable walk across relatively young lava flows and surreal volcanic terrain that feels almost lunar.

Days 7–8: Santa Cruz & Northern Islands

Return to Santa Cruz Island to visit Bachas Beach, known for its white sand, flamingo lagoons, and marine iguanas, followed by the lush highlands where wild Galápagos giant tortoises roam freely among endemic finches. Continue to North Seymour Island, one of the best places to observe nesting blue-footed boobies and magnificent frigatebirds in courtship displays. Visit the Charles Darwin Research Center to learn about conservation efforts and see giant tortoise breeding programs, then enjoy snorkeling and wildlife viewing at Mosquera Islet, home to sea lions, reef sharks, rays, and seabirds.

Days 9–10: South Plaza, San Cristóbal & Departure

Discover South Plaza Island, famous for its colorful succulent-covered cliffs, land iguanas, sea lions, and soaring red-billed tropicbirds. Continue to Santa Fe Island for snorkeling among sea lions, turtles, reef sharks, and eagle rays before hiking through forests of giant Opuntia cacti. On your final day, visit Isla Lobos near San Cristóbal Island, where blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds nest along scenic coastal trails. After the excursion, transfer to Baltra Airport for your return flight to Quito, where you will overnight at the Wyndham Quito Airport Hotel.

Day 11: Departure

Depart Quito or continue on an optional extension.