Day 1

When you arrive in Quito we’ll be waiting to accompany you to your accommodation in the heart of the city.

Day 2

Your day begins with explorations of the vibrant city of Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture and cobblestone streets. You’ll cover the key landmarks such as Plaza de la Independencia, La Compañia de Jesus, and the Basilica del Voto Nacional, complete with its 24 chapels and crypts housing several former presidents. Your city tour will conclude with a panoramic view from El Panecillo Hill, overlooking the city, before continuing to the north to the Middle of the World monument, where French scientists determined the shape of the planet. You’ll also visit the nearby Intiñan Museum, where you can engage in fascinating experiments which demonstrate the effects of being on the equator.

Day 3

Nestled in the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, approximately 1,000 kilometers off the coast of Ecuador, lie the enigmatic Galapagos Islands, a mesmerizing archipelago steeped in natural wonders and scientific significance. These volcanic jewels serve as a living laboratory of evolution, forever etched in history as the birthplace of Charles Darwin’s groundbreaking theory.
Amidst this biological wonderland lies a kaleidoscope of habitats teeming with life and a myriad of species found nowhere else on Earth. From the iconic Galapagos giant tortoises to the otherworldly marine iguanas, from the endearing Galapagos penguins to the comical blue-footed boobies, the Galapagos offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse oneself in nature’s grandeur.
 
This morning, we return to the airport to take your flight to the majestic Galapagos Islands. Upon arrival staff will be waiting to accompany you to your comfortable vessel for your upcoming adventures.
 
In the afternoon we visit Chinese Hat Island, named for its striking resemblance to the traditional Asian hat. Here, keep your eyes peeled for the American Oystercatchers, their vibrant beaks standing out against the stark backdrop of volcanic rock. And don’t forget to cast your gaze to the waters, where playful Galapagos Penguins dart and dive with effortless grace, their sleek forms cutting through the waves in a mesmerizing display of agility.

Day 4

Our morning destination is Vicente Roca Point, a sublime destination renowned for its amazing geological formations and abundant birdlife. Located on the western reaches of the archipelago, this site benefits from the nutrient-rich waters of the Cromwell Current, fostering vibrant ecosystems both above and below the surface, with feeding frenzies and aquatic spectacles unfolding amidst the cool waters.
 
And then there’s Fernandina, a pristine paradise untouched by the intrusion of foreign species, the crown jewel of the Galapagos. As the most active and westernmost island, Fernandina stands as a beacon of natural purity, its rugged landscapes teeming with life untouched by human hands. At Espinosa Point, the sole visitor site on Fernandina, you’ll encounter marine iguanas basking in the sun and Galapagos hawks soaring overhead, while you hike and snorkel in a sanctuary of natural beauty of one of the most unspoiled sites in the entire world.

Day 5

Today we visit Tagus Cove, a captivating destination steeped in history and natural beauty. This picturesque cove served as a favored haunt for pirates and sailors during the 1800s, leaving behind tantalizing remnants of their seafaring adventures for modern-day explorers to uncover. Taking a hike through the rugged terrain, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the cove and the sprawling mangrove forest beyond. Here is the last remaining habitat of the Mangrove finch, one of the rarest bird species on Earth. Witnessing these elusive creatures thrive in their natural habitat is a testament to the resilience of life in the Galapagos.
 
Later we head to Urbina Bay, a timeless oasis where the past meets the present in a symphony of natural wonders. Millions of years ago, this bay lay submerged beneath the ocean’s depths, until volcanic upheavals thrust it skyward, transforming it into the haven it is today. Now, Urbina Bay is home to a diverse array of wildlife, from playful sea lions to stately land iguanas and the remarkable flightless cormorants.

Day 6

Elizabeth Bay is a pristine sanctuary where the wonders of the Galapagos unfold amidst the tranquil waters. Accessible only by panga to preserve its fragile ecosystem, this secluded site offers a glimpse into the rich marine life that thrives beneath the surface. As you glide through the crystal-clear waters, prepare to be enchanted by the abundance of underwater treasures that await, making it a paradise for snorkelers seeking to immerse themselves in the vibrant world beneath the waves.
 
Next we head to Moreno Point, a veritable haven for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The rocky shores of Moreno Point play host to an impressive array of avian species, providing a feast for the eyes and a delight for birdwatchers. But the wonders of extend beyond its avian inhabitants – the coastal lagoons are a haven for white-tipped sharks. As you explore, be sure to take in the panoramic vistas of the Sierra Negra and Cerro Azul volcanoes.

Day 7

This morning, we visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, a beacon of scientific inquiry and conservation nestled amidst the pristine landscapes of the Galapagos Islands. As one of the archipelago’s most important sites for visitors, this renowned research facility plays a pivotal role in the ongoing efforts to preserve and protect the unique biodiversity of the Galapagos. Central to their mission is the conservation of the Galapagos Islands’ fragile ecosystem, with a particular focus on eradicating invasive and non-native species that threaten the survival of endemic flora and fauna. Through innovative research and conservation initiatives, the station strives to safeguard the future of the islands’ unique biodiversity for generations to come.
 
Later we head to the Highlands, a lush oasis in the northern reaches of Santa Cruz, offering a stark contrast to the rugged coastlines and volcanic landscapes of other islands. Here we find the iconic giant tortoises, and the charismatic mockingbirds and finches that inspired Charles Darwin’s revolutionary theories.

Day 8

South Plaza Island, a tiny gem in the Galapagos archipelago that packs a punch when it comes to biodiversity and natural beauty. Despite its small size, this enchanting island boasts an astonishing array of flora and fauna, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
 
South Plaza is home to the Sesuvium plants and prickly pear cactus trees that provide vital sustenance for the resident land iguanas. Thanks to recent efforts to eradicate invasive mice from the island, the population of land iguanas has flourished once more, ensuring a healthy future for these unique creatures.
 
As your exploration and discovery come to an end, it’s time to bid farewell to the extraordinary Galapagos Islands. Take a moment to reflect upon the memories you’ve made and the wonders you’ve witnessed, as you fly back to mainland Ecuador.
 
Back in Quito, your host will assist as you head to the nearby hotel to rest before your international flight home. ¡Buen viaje!