5-Day West Galapagos Islands Cruise

Begin your adventure with a 5-day cruise across the stunning western Galapagos Islands, which include Santa Cruz, Isabela, Fernandina, and Santiago. Immerse yourself in the remarkable biodiversity that characterizes this unique archipelago while enjoying all-inclusive amenities aboard your vessel—a perfect opportunity to fully appreciate the charm of these islands.

Description

Day 1: Baltra Island - Santa Cruz Island

Your journey begins at 9:08 am with your arrival at Baltra airport, where our team will meet you and transfer you by bus to the ship that will be your home for the upcoming days. The excitement to explore the Galapagos National Park is palpable!

After enjoying lunch on board, the afternoon is dedicated to visiting the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center on Santa Cruz Island. Here, you will catch your first sight of the renowned Galapagos giant tortoises, indigenous to the area and known to live for up to 400 years. Additionally, encounter land iguanas and uncover the intriguing story of Lonesome George.

The day concludes with a return to the ship for dinner and a restful night.

Day 2: Isabela Island

The second day is devoted to exploring Isabela, the largest island within the national park. Following breakfast, we set off along its western coast, beginning at Punta Moreno, where we can appreciate the breathtaking views of the Sierra Negra and Cerro Azul volcanoes. This hike over solidified lava will lead us through scenic lakes and mangroves.

After returning to the boat for lunch, the afternoon includes a visit to Urbina Bay, where we’ll discover corals, shells, and sediment layers unveiled by volcanic activity. As we explore, we’ll look for giant tortoises, Darwin's finches, and iguanas inhabiting the slopes of the Alcedo volcano.

The day will end with dinner on the boat, followed by well-deserved rest.

Day 3: Fernandina Island - Isabela Island

After breakfast, we will proceed to Punta Espinosa, a prime location for observing marine iguanas. Welcome to Fernandina Island, where we also hope to spot the flightless cormorant, one of the rarest birds on Earth. Observing these species sheds light on the ongoing evolution within the animal kingdom.

During the afternoon, we will navigate through the Bolivar Channel while enjoying lunch on our journey to Punta Vicente Roca at the northwestern region of Isabela. Here, the silhouette of the Ecuador Volcano will be visible, and time will be set aside for swimming and snorkeling. You may even encounter seahorses, puffer fish, and possibly Galapagos penguins, all contributing to the awe-inspiring biodiversity of the area!

We will return to the boat for dinner and rest for the night.

Day 4: Santiago Island - Rábida Islet

Awaken refreshed for a day of exploration! After breakfast, we will venture into the central area of the Galapagos National Park. Our first stop is Puerto Egas, where details of Santiago Island’s past and its connection to salt exploitation will unfold before you. Enjoy the striking volcanic landscapes here before returning for lunch aboard the ship.

Post-lunch, we will head to Rábida Island, renowned for its vibrant red-toned rocks contrasting with the darker themes of other Galapagos locations. As we approach a lagoon, be on the lookout for flamingos in their natural environment, alongside mockingbirds, yellow warblers, and finches that we expect to encounter during the visit.

After a fulfilling day, we will gather for dinner back on board.

Day 5: Santa Cruz Island - Baltra Island

Your final day begins with breakfast followed by a panoramic tour of Tortuga Negra Cove on a zodiac boat. This brief but exhilarating experience will allow for close-up views of the mangroves on Santa Cruz Island and the stunning emerald waters within the cove. And keep an eye out for sea turtles and sharks!

Concluding this 5-day journey, we will return you to Baltra airport for your onward flight.

Accommodation

The tour features 4 nights on the Archipel I boat, including full board. When booking, you can choose between a double room with a double bed or twin beds.

Flights

To join this cruise, advance arrangements for roundtrip flights are required:

If you're traveling from Quito

Departure flight: AVIANCA - AV1632. Departure at 6:25 am from Quito, arriving at 9:08 am in Baltra.Return flight: AVIANCA - AV1633. Departure at 10:03 am from Baltra, arriving at 2:37 pm in Quito.

If you're traveling from Guayaquil

Departure flight: AVIANCA - AV1632. Departure at 8:10 am from Guayaquil, arriving at 9:08 am in Baltra.Return flight: AVIANCA - AV1633. Departure at 10:03 am from Baltra, arriving at 12:56 pm in Guayaquil.