Located in the Pacific Ocean some 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador , this archipelago and the surrounding marine reserve have been called a unique “living museum” and showcase of evolution. This “living laboratory” of evolution inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of natural selection, and continues to offer a unique opportunity to explore a pristine natural ecosystem. Early transfer to the International airport of Quito from where we’ll embark on a 1 hour and 45 minute flight to San Cristobal Island (Chatham). In the afternoon you’ll check into your hotel and meet with your Galapagos naturalist guide. After lunch you’ll visit the Interpretation Center where you’ll have an introduction to the Galapagos Islands, flora and fauna, as well the human history of the islands. Then a short walk to Tijeretas Hill, a spectacular view point. A trail leading off from the Interpretation Center heads up Frigate-bird Hill. Here it is possible to see magnificent frigate birds and great frigate birds in the same colony. This is the perfect place to compare and learn to distinguish them. One of the trails will lead you to a calm water inlet, a perfect place for snorkeling where you may have an amazing encounter with sea turtles, sea lions and many species of tropical fish.
INCLUDED: Transfer out Quito, and Transfer in at the Galapagos, Galapagos certified naturalist guide, all excursions and activities, lunch, accommodation w/breakfast.

After breakfast you will join a group and visit Kicker Rock. This formation is what remains of a volcanic cone that has been eroded by the sea. Above the water, the monolithic rock formation towers over 500 feet above the Pacific Ocean and is home to a number of Tropicbirds, Blue-footed Boobies and Frigatebirds. However, the true appeal of this location lies below the surface of the sea. The natural erosion of this ancient cone has created a channel between the rocks that provides the ideal habitat to view a variety of sharks and rays including Spotted Eagle Rays, White-tip Reef sharks, sea turtles, the elusive Galapagos Shark and Hammerheads! This will be a truly unforgettable experience. Because it is not permitted to moor at Kicker Rock, a lunch stop and swim at a nearby beach is included.
INCLUDED: Galapagos certified naturalist guide, all excursions and activities, snorkeling gear, lunch, accommodation w/breakfast.

Located two hours from San Cristóbal, Española is the southernmost island and one of the oldest in all of the Galápagos archipelago. The island’s flat profile is extremely dry with only a few inches of rain per year. Despite the dry climate the island is one of the world’s only known nesting sites for the Waved Albatross . From April to December this island is covered with these adorably clumsy birds. Blue-Footed and Nazca Boobies as well as many other bird species also call this island home.Another unique species found only on Española Island is the Green and Red Marine Iguana (also known as Christmas Iguanas). Quite often you will be greeted by these colorful reptiles. A visit to Gardner Bay for some open water snorkeling completes this island visit.
INCLUDED: Galapagos certified naturalist guide, all excursions and activities, snorkeling gear, lunch, accommodation w/breakfast.

After breakfast you’ll be transferred by speedboat for approximately 2 1/2 hours from San Cristobal to Santa Cruz (Indefatigable Island).
Highlands and lava tunnels option: Upon arrival to Puerto Ayora, the largest town of the Islands, our guide will greet you at the main passenger dock and later you’ll check in at our hotel. Santa Cruz is the only island having a road that crosses its interior running from Puerto Ayora in the south to the Itabaca Channel crossing in the north, thus providing the opportunity to see the interior and higher elevations of this marvelous island. You will have a guided tour to the highlands where we’ll be delighted by the island’s variety of life zones and geology and see giant tortoises in their natural state! Then we’ll visit a giant lava tunnel: underground tunnels dug by hot lava twist that turn and intertwine providing an exciting opportunity to view the immense effect of volcanic activity.
Tortuga Bay option: A 45 minute walk through an amazing trail leading us to Tortuga Bay, considered by the majority of visitors one of the most beautiful beaches in Galapagos. Here you can snorkel in the beautiful calm water inlet that reveals the full richness of the Galapagos marine life. You can see colorful reef fish, white-tip sharks, rays and sea turtles. We’ll also take time to walk through the marine iguana sanctuary where you might also catch a glimpse of blue-footed boobies, lava herons and frigate birds along the shore.
INCLUDED: Galapagos certified naturalist guide, transfer to Santa Cruz in shared service speedboat, all excursions and activities, snorkeling gear, lunch, accommodation w/breakfast.

PLEASE NOTE: The island visited on the navigable exploration day tour will depend on the booking date, availability and itinerary approved by the Galapagos National Park Service. Galapagos itineraries are subject to change due to weather conditions, logistical reasons, guests’ safety, or Galapagos National Park regulations.

After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the Itabaca channel. This drive will take approximately 50 minutes. In the way you´ll make a short stop at the Twins: two collapsed lava craters on each side of the road, surrounded by Scalesia forest-a tree species endemic to the Galapagos. Upon arrival to the Itabaca Chanel you’ll take a short 10 minute ride on a ferry to Baltra, followed by a 5 minute bus drive to the the airport to take your flight back to Quito.
INCLUDED: Breakfast, Ground transfers out in Galapagos (shared service).