11 days
Experience the unique fearless wildlife of Galapagos. Visit some of the most remote areas of the Galapagos Islands. See the marine iguana, the world’s only marine lizard. Explore the old town of Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
DAY 1: Quito
Today you begin your journey by boarding your international outbound flight to Quito. On arriving in Quito you’re met by your private guide and taken to your hotel by private transfer. It usually takes an hour to get there, and your guide will provide you with all the relevant introductory information needed for your trip, such as hotel vouchers. Relax in your hotel after your flight.
Stay At: Hotel Hilton Colon
DAY 2: Quito
Take a private guided walking tour of the highlights of Quito. Your guide shows you the city’s highlights, such as colonial temples, monasteries and plazas. They’ll also help you unravel the grand architecture of the Church of San Francisco. The tour lasts for three hours, ending at a viewpoint over the city. In the afternoon, you’re free to keep exploring Quito at leisure. We recommend visiting one of the city’s museums, such as the pre-Hispanic art museum Casa del Alabado.
Stay At: Hotel Hilton Colon
DAY 3: On-board ship (The Galapagos Islands)
A private transfer will take you to the airport in time for your two-hour flight to the Galapagos Islands. On arriving, you’re met by members of the crew who will take you to the Yolita II. After being welcomed aboard and given a safety briefing, you’ll set sail to Las Bachas, a beautiful beach area to get your Galapagos experience started. You’ll begin excursions in the afternoon.
On-Board Ship: Yolita II
DAY 4: On-board ship (The Galapagos Islands)
Genovesa Island is a highlight of many Galapagos trips with the collapsed volcano formation playing host to large populations of frigates and the unforgettable red footed booby. You’ll spend the day walking the paths of Darwin Bay and El Barranco as well as snorkelling in the sunken caldera.
On-Board Ship: Yolita II
DAY 5: On-board ship (The Galapagos Islands)
The cruise continues on to Bartolomé Island where you’ll hike to the summit, which offers panoramic views over Pinnacle Rock. After, you’ll experience the volcanic rock of Sullivan Bay which makes way to a white coral sand beach, home to Sally Lightfoot crabs and sea lions.
On-Board Ship: Yolita II
DAY 6: On-board ship (The Galapagos Islands)
This morning enjoy a visit to Isabela Island’s tortoise breeding centre to see and learn about the Galapagos tortoise. In the afternoon you take a guided hike to the top of Sierra Negra Volcano. It’s a steep climb but the views from the crater rim (the second largest in the world) are expansive.
On-Board Ship: Yolita II
DAY 7: On-board ship (The Galapagos Islands)
Continuing up the western coast of Isabela, the ship will stop at Elizabeth Bay for a panga ride to explore the mangroves, spotting sea turtles and penguins along the way. The afternoon will be spent at Urbina Bay, a reef that was raised out of the water from tectonic movement. You’ll be able to snorkel here in addition to spotting land iguanas, sea turtles, rays and flightless cormorants.
On-Board Ship: Yolita II
DAY 8: On-board ship (The Galapagos Islands)
The morning visit to Tagus Cove will allow you to walk this former whaler and pirate shelter, with stunning views of Darwin and Wolf volcanoes in the distance. The afternoon visit to Punta Espinoza will get you up close to the largest marine iguana colony in the Galapagos. The beauty of this remote part of Isabela puts the amazing wildlife into perspective.
On-Board Ship: Yolita II
DAY 9:On-board ship (The Galapagos Islands)
Today you’ll visit Rabida Island for a walk along the red sand beaches created by unusually high iron deposits. Sea lions are typically abundant here and the trails will take you past an interesting lagoon surrounded by palo santo trees. After lunch you’ll be able to relax at Playa Espumilla, one of the Galapagos’ most beautiful beaches, with snorkelling options available to explore the coast.
On-Board Ship: Yolita II
DAY 10: International return flight
The trip finishes with a visit to Daphne Island where the blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds and finches will wish you farewell. You’ll then transfer to the airport in time for your flight back to mainland Ecuador and connection home.
DAY 11: International return flight
Arrive home today to complete your journey.
11 days from £6480 pp
The price reflects the suggested accommodation in this itinerary. This will depend on when you travel and is subject to change. All of our Wildlife holidays are completely tailor-made to your requirements. We are happy to make recommendation to meet the quality and experience you are looking for, within your given budget.
