Russell Family
Sample Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive on the Island of Baltra
Upon arrival at Baltra Island, you will receive a warm welcome and assistance at the airport. Afterward, you will be transferred to board your luxury boat, which will be your home for the next five days. A catamaran is a fantastic way to experience the Galapagos Islands in luxury. On board, you'll find spacious suites with excellent amenities and private balconies that offer stunning ocean views.
This afternoon, your captain will take you to Bartholomew Island. This island was named in honor of Sir Bartholomew James Sulivan, a close companion of Charles Darwin. Sir Bartholomew was the principal surveyor and second lieutenant aboard the HMS Beagle.
Pinnacle Rock is a distinctive landmark formed by an underwater volcanic eruption, making it a magnificent geological structure on the island and in the archipelago. This location also features a beach where a small population of green sea turtles comes to nest during their breeding season. Additionally, the area is home to a large population of Galapagos penguins.
Bartholomew Island offers a variety of outdoor adventures, such as hiking, swimming, snorkeling, and taking a panga ride. Panga rides provide a more intimate way to experience the coastlines and join shore excursions using inflatable, motorized dinghies. While swimming, you can observe vibrant schools of fish and playful sea lions.
Day 2
Genovesa Island
Today, the catamaran will take you to Darwin Bay on Genovesa Island. Darwin Bay was a shield volcano but has collapsed due to erosion over the centuries. The bay is famous for its diverse bird population, hosting over 20,000 red-footed boobies that reside in the surrounding trees and bushes.
This afternoon, you'll cruise to El Barranco on Genovesa Island, also known as Prince Phillip’s Steps in English. The site features a rocky path that ascends a cliff, offering a breathtaking view of the surroundings. El Barranco is also home to a dense Palo Santo forest, which provides a habitat for nesting red-footed boobies and a variety of other shorebirds. You may be able to spot storm petrels, Galapagos doves, short-eared owls, sea turtles, rays, sharks, sea lions, and marine iguanas.
Day 3
Santiago Island
The cruise will take you to two enchanting locations on Santiago Island this morning. First, you'll visit Buccaneer's Cove, a historical site on the northwest coast that pirates, buccaneers, and whalers once frequented. Next, enjoy the beauty of Espumilla Beach, situated at the northern end of James Bay and covered in lush forests.
Buccaneer's Cove and Espumilla Beach offer an ideal setting for snorkeling enthusiasts. The underwater landscape is rich with various tropical fish, giving you a chance to observe these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat. Look out for marine iguanas, sea lions, numerous shorebirds, rays, sea turtles, and colorful sally lightfoot crabs. You can spend your morning snorkeling, swimming, or walking on the beach.
In the afternoon, you'll visit Egas Port, also known as James Bay. This area is home to quick-footed Galapagos lava lizards and features grottos and tide pools that host a diverse range of marine species. It is renowned as one of the best snorkeling locations in the Galapagos.
Day 4
North Seymour Island
North Seymour Island, formed by uplifted submarine lava, is teeming with wildlife. It is home to a colony of approximately 2,500 land iguanas, as well as thriving populations of sea lions, blue-footed boobies, common noddies, and frigatebirds. Along its coast, you can observe both land and marine iguanas and the largest colony of magnificent frigatebirds.
Your captain will take you to the Highlands of Santa Cruz this afternoon. This area is famous for its rich biodiversity, rolling hills, lush ferns, towering volcanoes, and unique lava tubes. The lava tubes provide a surreal experience and showcase the diverse agricultural zones of the Galapagos all in one place. The abundance of birdlife makes this a paradise for bird watchers.
Day 5
Mosquera Islet and Departure Day
Mosquera Islet, situated between the islands of Baltra and North Seymour, is a spectacular natural formation comprised of a reef of rocks and coral flanked by a white sand beach. The islet spans around 180 yards at its narrowest point and stretches an estimated 650 yards. Along most of its perimeter, evidence of past volcanic activity is visible in the form of a base of lava rocks, with the exception of the southwest side, which serves as the primary landing area. This island is known for having one of the largest populations of sea lions, making it a great place for visitors to observe these amazing creatures in their natural habitat. There have been occasional reports of killer whales (orcas) feeding on the sea lions in this area.
This afternoon, you'll be transferred to the airport for your flight back to mainland Ecuador. Our representative will be happy to assist you at the airport.
Or head onward for your next adventure.
After your cruising, enjoy another few days on a land-based adventure at the Galapagos Safari Camp or even a couple of nights to unwind at the relaxing, waterfront Finch Bay.
While you're in the region, consider pairing your incredible wildlife adventure with ourEcuador: Amazon to Andes itinerary OR if you have always dreamed of seeing Machu Picchu, our Peru: Amazon to Andes itinerary.
