Itinerary
Itinerary A | 5 Days 4 Nights
Day 1 – Saturday
AM: DEPARTURE TO THE GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS – SAN CRISTÓBAL AIRPORT
Set sail on an unforgettable journey to the Galápagos Islands. You will arrive at San Cristóbal airport, where an experienced naturalist guide will greet you, the guardian of this ecological jewel. Feel the excitement of anticipation as your exploration of this amazing UNESCO World Heritage site begins.
PM: INTERPRETATION CENTER
Located on the outskirts of Puerto Baquerizo, this center is dedicated to the history of human presence in the Galápagos. From the times of the first Spanish explorers to the present day, including illustrious visitors like Charles Darwin, this permanent exhibition will take you through the struggles and challenges faced by the early settlers who tried to survive in the harsh Galápagos environment.
Activities: Dry landing and hiking
Day 2 – Sunday
AM: CERRO BRUJO – SAN CRISTÓBAL ISLAND
Start the day at Cerro Brujo, a stunning white sand beach on the northern coast of San Cristóbal Island. This beach was one of the first sites visited by Charles Darwin. It is an exquisite place to walk and enjoy the landscape, with its fine white sand and turquoise waters. The area is home to a large colony of sea lions, and the nearby lagoon often hosts various bird species, including pelicans and blue-footed boobies. The crystal-clear waters also make it an ideal spot for snorkeling, where you can find abundant marine life.
Trail: 0.5 kilometers / 0.3 miles
Level: 1
PM: PUNTA PITT – SAN CRISTÓBAL ISLAND
In the afternoon, head to Punta Pitt, on the eastern tip of San Cristóbal Island. This unique site is the only place in the Galápagos where you can see all three species of boobies and two species of frigatebirds. The trail offers a challenging hike up a steep path but rewards you with breathtaking views of the coast. The beach is also an excellent spot for snorkeling and swimming, offering the chance to see various marine species. This day provides a rich experience of the diverse landscapes and wildlife of San Cristóbal Island, with relaxation on a beautiful beach and an adventurous hike.
Trail: 1.5 kilometers / 0.9 miles
Level: 3
Activities: Dry landing, hiking, snorkeling
Day 3 – Monday
AM: A WALK THROUGH NATURE’S GALLERY – PUNTA SUÁREZ
In the morning, enjoy an exciting adventure at Punta Suárez. This rocky trail presents a natural gallery of the Galápagos Islands, filled with a stunning variety of wildlife. Upon disembarking, you’ll be welcomed by sea lions and marine iguanas. As you advance, you will encounter a mosaic of seabird colonies, including the striking Nazca boobies, blue-footed boobies, elegant gulls, and tropical birds. The highlight is the waved albatross, the island’s largest bird (present from April to January).
Trail: 1.7 km / 1.1 miles
Level: 3
Activities: Dry landing and hiking
PM: A TROPICAL PARADISE – GARDNER BAY
Enjoy the afternoon at Gardner Bay, a pristine paradise in the Galápagos archipelago. The white coral sands blend with crystal-clear turquoise waters. Watch sea lions basking on the beach. This idyllic setting invites you to stroll along the coast and discover endemic wildlife.
Trail: 0.8 km / 0.5 miles
Level: 1
Activities: Wet landing and walk
Day 4 – Tuesday
AM: THE WONDER OF NATURE – PUNTA CORMORANT / DEVIL’S CROWN
Head north for an expedition to Punta Cormorant, famous for its expansive coastal lagoon filled with flamingos, white-cheeked ducks, black-necked stilts, and other birds. This natural paradise also features a white sand beach, a crucial nesting site for sea turtles, and a breeding area for blue-footed boobies near the trail.
Trail: 1.6 km / 1 mile
Level: 1
Activities: Wet landing and walk
PM: POST OFFICE BAY
Begin the day at Post Office Bay, on the enigmatic island of Floreana. This place is rich in stories, including those of German settlers, a baroness, and unsolved mysteries. The bay was a historical anchoring point for whalers. Here, an over 200-year-old mail system was established. In addition to its rich history, it features a picturesque beach, a lava tunnel, and maritime tours where you can spot sea lions, turtles, birds, small sharks, and possibly penguins.
Trail: 0.7 km / 0.4 miles
Level: 1
Activities: Wet landing and walk
Day 5 – Wednesday
AM: THE BIRTHPLACE OF CONSERVATION – CHARLES DARWIN RESEARCH STATION
Start the day with a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station, a nonprofit organization that collaborates with the Galápagos National Park. This visit offers insight into the conservation efforts for native species and the control of invasive ones. One of its projects includes the captive breeding of giant tortoises. Among its endemic flora, you’ll find various Darwin’s finches, flycatchers, and mockingbirds.
At the end of the trip, return to mainland Ecuador, taking with you the memories and magic of these enchanted islands.
