Itinerary "B"

DAY 1 – MONDAY

Arrive to Baltra Island where your private Guide will meet you after passing through the Galapagos National Park control. Meet and greet with your Naturalist Guide and a few members of the crew who will take you immediately to the yacht.

PM: Charles Darwin Station – Santa Cruz Island:

The Charles Darwin Research Station stands as a beacon of scientific exploration and conservation in the Galápagos archipelago. Named in honor of the renowned naturalist Charles Darwin, this institution serves as a vital hub for understanding and safeguarding the unique biodiversity that defines this remarkable corner of the world.

As you step onto the station’s grounds, you’re immersed in an atmosphere of discovery. Scientific researchers and dedicated conservationists work tirelessly to unravel the mysteries of the Galápagos’ flora and fauna, striving to protect these delicate ecosystems for generations to come. Within the station’s walls, you’ll find a living laboratory—a sanctuary for the Galápagos giant tortoises, one of the archipelago’s most iconic inhabitants. These majestic creatures, some of which are over a century old, serve as living testaments to the island’s intricate evolutionary history.

DAY 2 – TUESDAY

AM: Chinese Hat islet

Amidst the azure waters of the Galápagos, Chinese Hat emerges as a striking testament to the geological forces that have shaped this unique archipelago. This diminutive islet, officially named Sombrero Chino due to its distinctive shape, offers an intimate encounter with the raw power of nature and the remarkable adaptations that define Galápagos life. The island’s rust-red and black lava formations stand in stark juxtaposition against the pristine white sands that line its shores. It’s a visual symphony of colors and textures that showcases the interplay between fire and water.

Exploring the island unveils its rich biodiversity. Marine iguanas, uniquely adapted to their surroundings, bask in the sun’s warmth, while sea lions frolic along the coastline. The island’s avian inhabitants, including Galápagos penguins and blue-footed boobies, demonstrate the remarkable adaptations that have occurred in this isolated ecosystem.

PM: Rabida Island

This volcanic jewel, known for its unique reddish hue, offers a feast for the senses with its dramatic landscapes and rich biodiversity. Upon arrival, you’re greeted by the island’s distinctive red sands, a result of the iron-rich lava that has shaped its shores. The fiery color palette extends to the cliffs and landscape, creating a stunning contrast against the deep blue waters that surround the island.

Rábida’s shores are teeming with life, from colonies of sea lions that bask in the sun to the intriguing Galápagos mockingbirds that greet visitors with their inquisitive demeanor. The island’s interior offers trails that wind through a maze of prickly pear cacti and saltbush, providing glimpses of land iguanas that call this unique habitat home. The island’s lagoon, often tinted a striking shade of green, is a sanctuary for migratory birds and offers an opportunity for peaceful contemplation amidst nature’s wonders. Snorkeling in the nearby waters reveals a kaleidoscope of marine life, including colorful reef fish and playful sea lions.

DAY 3 – WEDNESDAY

AM: Espumilla Beach / Buccaneers Cove – Santiago Island

Espumilla Beach, with its golden sands and turquoise waters, beckons with a tranquil ambiance. As the tides ebb and flow, marine iguanas and sea lions gather, creating a picturesque tableau of life along the shoreline. The nearby mangroves shelter a diverse array of bird species, from herons to finches, adding to the island’s vibrant ecosystem.

A short journey from Espumilla Beach leads to Buccaneer’s Cove, a site steeped in seafaring history. Named after the pirates who once sought refuge here, the cove’s towering cliffs provide a dramatic backdrop to the azure waters. Exploring its waters and rocky shores reveals a glimpse of the Galápagos’ marine wonders, from playful sea lions to elusive sea turtles.

As you stand on the shores of Espumilla Beach and gaze upon the rugged beauty of Buccaneer’s Cove, you’re transported to a world where nature’s grandeur and human history converge.

PM: Egas Port – Santiago Island

Suarez Point, is a natural wonderland that encapsulates the essence of this unique paradise. With its rugged coastline, dramatic cliffs, and azure waters stretching as far as the eye can see, Suarez Point offers a captivating spectacle of nature’s grandeur. Home to an array of remarkable wildlife, from the iconic waved albatrosses with their elegant aerial displays to the comical blue-footed boobies engaging in their charming courtship dances, every step on this rocky terrain unveils a new chapter in the intricate story of life on the Galápagos Islands. The Blow Hole, an awe-inspiring natural phenomenon, adds a touch of drama to the scene as it erupts with a resounding burst of ocean spray. Suarez Point is a testament to the delicate balance of these ecosystems and a reminder of the importance of preserving these pristine landscapes for future generations to marvel at and cherish.

DAY 4 – THURSDAY

AM: Espinoza Point – Fernandina Island

At the northern tip of Fernandina Island, Espinoza Point beckons with its raw, untouched beauty and captivating wildlife encounters. Stepping onto Espinoza Point, you are transported to a world where the forces of nature reign supreme. The barren, otherworldly landscape of recent lava flows serves as a canvas for the island’s inhabitants to thrive in a realm untouched by time.

Marine iguanas, found in astonishing abundance, dominate the scene. These prehistoric creatures, with their dark, volcanic-hued bodies, showcase the unique adaptations that have allowed them to flourish in this harsh environment. As they bask in the equatorial sun, you’re treated to a glimpse of the intricate dance of survival that defines the Galápagos. Espinoza Point’s stark beauty is contrasted by the rich marine life that surrounds it. The turquoise waters teem with underwater wonders, inviting you to snorkel alongside playful sea lions, graceful rays, and vibrant schools of fish. As you explore the depths, you’re reminded of the delicate balance between sea and land that shapes this extraordinary ecosystem.

PM: Tagus Cove – Isabela Island

Tagus Cove stands as a testament to the island’s geological history and its storied maritime past. This enchanting cove offers a unique blend of natural beauty and human exploration, creating a captivating destination for those seeking for a wildlife exploration in the Galápagos. As you approach Tagus Cove, the towering cliffs and tranquil waters invite you to step ashore and explore this picturesque haven. The cove’s sheltered waters were once a favorite anchorage for whalers and pirates, who left their mark in the form of inscriptions on the rocks, creating a tangible link to the island’s seafaring history.

The surrounding landscape offers volcanic formations, sculpted by the fiery forces that shaped the islands, create a rugged backdrop against the deep blue sea. The arid terrain is adorned with hardy pioneer plants that have taken root amidst the rocky landscape. Tagus Cove is a sanctuary for birdlife as well. The cliffs provide nesting sites for blue-footed boobies and flightless cormorants, offering intimate glimpses into their daily lives. Below the surface, the clear waters beckon snorkelers to discover a vibrant marine world inhabited by sea turtles, rays, and colorful fish.

DAY 5 – FRIDAY

AM: Elizabeth Bay – Isabela Island

As you glide into Elizabeth Bay’s calm waters, you’re greeted by a sense of serenity that envelops you. The bay’s sheltered coves and mangrove-lined shores create a sense of sanctuary, inviting you to embark on a journey of discovery.

Kayaking through the mangrove forests, you’ll find yourself in a world of reflection and solitude. These dense, intertwining roots serve as nurseries for countless marine species, offering a glimpse into the intricate web of life that depends on these vital habitats. Keep an eye out for rays gliding beneath the surface and sea turtles gracefully navigating their underwater haven.

PM: Moreno Point – Isabela Island

Upon setting foot on Moreno Point, you’ll find yourself amid a rugged expanse of recent lava formations. The barren landscape, shaped by volcanic forces, offers a glimpse into the raw power that has forged the islands over millennia. Walk among the intricate patterns etched by flowing lava, and you’ll gain a newfound appreciation for the dynamic geology that defines the Galápagos. As you explore the terrain, keep an eye out for curious land iguanas that call this inhospitable land home. These unique reptiles showcase nature’s remarkable ability to adapt and thrive, even in the harshest of environments. Moreno Point’s captivating beauty extends underwater, where a snorkeler’s paradise awaits. Glide through crystal-clear waters alongside playful sea lions and marvel at the kaleidoscope of marine life that inhabits the coral reefs. The vibrant marine world below the surface provides an enchanting contrast to the stark volcanic landscape above.

DAY 6 – SATURDAY

AM: Tintoreras – Isabela Island

Stepping onto Tintoreras is like entering a hidden sanctuary of nature’s most captivating creations. It’s a place where lava and life intersect, where the ancient forces of geology have given rise to a haven of untamed beauty. The black lava formations, sculpted into a labyrinth of natural channels, create a stunning backdrop for your exploration. It’s as if you’ve entered a mythical underworld, where time has stood still.

Marine life thrives in these crystal-clear waters, offering a front-row seat to the intricate dance of evolution. Tintoreras is renowned for its colonies of Galápagos penguins, the only penguin species to inhabit the Northern Hemisphere. Watch as these agile birds dart through the water with astonishing grace, offering a unique glimpse into their underwater world. Snorkeling off the shores of Tintoreras is a mesmerizing adventure. Encounter curious sea lions and playful marine iguanas, their aquatic prowess a testament to their remarkable adaptations. Keep an eye out for the namesake white-tipped reef sharks who actually give the name to this site and which often patrol the underwater channels, adding a touch of mystery to your aquatic exploration.

Tintoreras is a haven for bird enthusiasts as well. Blue-footed boobies and pelicans find refuge on the jagged cliffs, while herons and oystercatchers grace the shores with their elegant presence. The islet’s stark beauty and thriving ecosystems offer an intimate connection with the Galápagos’ rich biodiversity.

PM: Wetlands / Wall of tears – Isabela Island

As you wander through Isabela Island’s wetlands, you’re transported to a serene realm of lush foliage, tranquil lagoons, and vibrant avian life. The brackish waters are a haven for countless bird species, including graceful flamingos, herons, and pintail ducks. This delicate ecosystem is a testament to nature’s ingenuity, where the boundaries between land and water blur into an enchanting tapestry of life.

Standing in stark contrast to the tranquility of the wetlands, the Wall of Tears stands as a somber monument to Isabela Island’s history. This imposing structure, built by prisoners during the island’s penal colony era, serves as a poignant reminder of the hardships endured by those who were once confined here.

DAY 7 – SUNDAY

AM: Fausto LLerena Breeding Center – Santa Cruz Island

The Fausto Llerena Breeding Center provides a unique opportunity to witness the remarkable work being done to conserve and rehabilitate the Galápagos giant tortoises. These magnificent creatures, some of which are more than a century old, serve as living testaments to the island’s intricate evolutionary history.

Within the center’s carefully designed enclosures, you’ll observe tortoises of various ages and sizes, each representing a distinct subspecies from different islands. The center’s dedicated staff work tirelessly to ensure the health and well-being of these creatures, while also engaging in vital research that contributes to our understanding of their biology and behavior.

PM: Tortuga Bay – Santa Cruz Island

As you venture along the path that leads to Tortuga Bay, you’re enveloped in the lush embrace of native flora. The journey is a feast for the senses, with the sounds of rustling leaves and the scent of saltwater carried on the breeze. Your anticipation grows as you approach the coastline, where a captivating panorama awaits. Tortuga Bay’s main beach stretches in a crescent of pure, untouched sands, a testament to the archipelago’s commitment to preservation. Here, the pace of life slows, inviting you to stroll along the shoreline, collecting seashells or simply basking in the gentle caress of the sun.

For the more adventurous, a short hike leads to Playa Mansa—a sanctuary of calm waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Beneath the surface, a vibrant underwater world teems with marine life, offering an opportunity to encounter colorful fish, graceful rays, and perhaps even a glimpse of a Galápagos green sea turtle gliding through the depths.

DAY 8 – MONDAY

AM: Interpretation Center – San Cristobal Island

The innovative exhibits and informative displays offer a captivating introduction to the Galápagos’ geological history, its evolutionary wonders, and the ongoing conservation efforts that safeguard its fragile ecosystems. This center is a tribute to the island’s intricate interplay of geology, biology, and human interaction.

After this visit you will be taken to the San Cristobal’s airport onto the VIP lounge in time for your return flight to mainland.

The Interpretation Center on San Cristóbal Island in the Galápagos archipelago serves as an educational hub and a gateway to understanding the unique ecosystem, geology, history, and conservation efforts of the Galápagos Islands. This center plays a crucial role in raising awareness about the delicate balance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and its extraordinary biodiversity.

Located on the northeastern shore of San Cristóbal Island, the Interpretation Center offers visitors a comprehensive insight into the geological formation of the islands, the fascinating flora and fauna, and the ongoing conservation initiatives.

On board, the Stella Maris has a profesional and experienced crew who work hard and with high enthusiasm to make our clients travel experience the best. At the office, our sales and reservations staff answers our clients questions in a timely fashion with efficiency and personal service.

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