Eastern & Southern Galapagos Islands 5-day Cruise

Discover one of the most remarkable archipelagos globally through this 5-day cruise across the eastern and southern regions of the Galapagos Islands. Together, we will appreciate the stunning biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes of Santa Cruz, Floreana, and Española, concluding our journey in San Cristobal!

Description

Day 1: Arrival at Baltra Island - Santa Cruz Island

Upon your arrival at Baltra airport at 9:08 am, our team will meet you and transfer you by bus to the vessel, allowing you to settle into your cabin with your luggage. After enjoying lunch on board, we will head to the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center located on Santa Cruz Island.

This is the perfect opportunity to observe the renowned giant tortoises of the Galapagos. You will have the chance to see tortoises at various life stages, from hatchlings to full-grown adults, while gaining insights into the unique characteristics of this native species.

As the day winds down, we will return to the boat for dinner and a restful evening.

Day 2: Exploring Floreana Island

We will begin our day with breakfast aboard the ship before embarking on an adventure to the southern section of the Galapagos archipelago, specifically Floreana Island. Our first stop will be the stunning peninsula of Punta Cormorant, where we will encounter a playful colony of sea lions.

Our trek will take us through the island's enchanting palo santo forests, culminating in a visit to an old volcanic cone known as Devil's Crown. This site is celebrated as a premier snorkeling destination, attracting a vibrant array of marine life, including turtles, colorful fish, dolphins, and even penguins!

After a delightful lunch on the boat, we will spend the afternoon at Post Office Bay, and then hike to the Baroness's viewpoint. Here, we will delve into the intriguing history of Eloise von Wagner, as we step back to learn about the 18th-century mailbox used by whalers navigating these waters. Curiosity will surely spark!

We will return to the vessel for dinner and relaxation until the following day.

Day 3: Osborn Islet - Española Island

Following breakfast, we will set sail toward the southeastern region of Galapagos National Park. Our first destination will be Gardner Bay and its nearby Osborn Islet, a vital nesting site for green sea turtles in the Pacific. We will also encounter a significant colony of endemic sea lions, relatives of the California variety.

After appreciating the diverse wildlife on the islet, we'll enjoy lunch on board, followed by an exciting visit to Punta Suarez on Española Island. Here, the dramatic high cliffs offer breathtaking views, with the serene sound of waves washing against the shore and iguanas roaming amongst the rocks. You will be captivated by the beauty surrounding you!

After returning to the ship, dinner will be served, followed by an evening of rest and rejuvenation.

Day 4: San Cristobal Island

On the penultimate day, we will reach San Cristobal, the easternmost island of the Galapagos. Our exploration will begin at Punta Pitt, a site of notable historical significance as it was Charles Darwin's first glimpse of land during his 1835 expedition. We will discuss the pivotal role this national park had in shaping the scientist's discoveries!

A lunch break will take place on the vessel, followed by an afternoon of snorkeling at the beach near Cerro Brujo.

After this invigorating experience, we will relax and enjoy dinner on board.

Day 5: Lobos Islet - Departure from San Cristobal Island

On our final day, we will breakfast before heading to Lobos Islet, home to a sizable colony of Galapagos sea lions (known as lobo marino in Spanish). With an opportunity to observe these creatures up close while respecting their natural environment, we will also marvel at the diverse bird species in the area. With a bit of luck, we may witness the amusing courtship displays of blue-footed boobies and male frigate birds as they attempt to attract females!

Our unforgettable cruise will conclude as we return you to San Cristobal airport, ensuring you have ample time to catch your flight home.

Accommodation

This 5-day experience includes 4 nights on the Archipel I boat with a full board service. During booking, you may choose between a double room with a king-size bed or twin beds.

Flights

To join this cruise, you will need to arrange your roundtrip flights according to the following schedule:

If departing from Quito

Outbound flight: AVIANCA - AV1632. Departure at 8:04 am from Quito. Arrival at 10:48 am in Baltra.Return flight: AVIANCA - AV1631. Departure at 1:05 pm from San Cristobal. Arrival at 5:43 pm in Quito.

If departing from Guayaquil

Outbound flight: AVIANCA - AV1632. Departure at 9:53 am from Guayaquil. Arrival at 10:48 am in Baltra.Return flight: AVIANCA - AV1631. Departure at 1:05 pm from San Cristobal. Arrival at 3:53 pm in Guayaquil.