Just Girls Galapagos Yacht Adventure
Join us for a bucket list trip of a lifetime. Galapagos!
The Galapagos archipelago is one of the most beautiful and untouched places on the earth.
Travel back in time with the authentic Galapagos local experts.
Feel the fresh breeze of Galapagos and admire landscapes and wildlife
on a relaxing vacation aboard The 16 passenger M/Y Galaxy Yacht.
Jan 19 - 29, 2023
This 9-night journey will be amazing! Unleash your adventurous spirit as you travel on a unique expedition cruise, where you'll explore the diverse islands and ecosystems of the Galápagos Archipelago. Experience the pristine beauty of this equatorial region where you may get up close with the many endemic species, including marine iguanas, Giant Land Tortoises, sea lions, blue-footed boobies and many more.
Jan 19 Starting in Quito, Ecuador we stay for two nights
Jan 21 Fly over to Baltra Island to meet up with our crew and board our 16 passenger yacht the M/Y Galaxy.
Jan 21 - 28, 2023
Each day explore a new and different island by foot or by dinghy, kayak and snorkeling.
The Dinghy Rides are also known as the “Pangas”.
This is a common activity that you can experience as it is the only way by which you can embark and desembark from ships in order to reach the sites. These are rides on an inflated zodiac that take you through the waters while you take a closer look at the marine life around the islands.
Saturday Jan 21 AM:Reception in Baltra and transfer to the boat
PM:Santa Cruz: Highlands
Sunday Jan 22 AM:Isabela: Moreno Point
PM:Isabela: Elizabeth Bay
Monday Jan 23 AM:Isabela: Urbina Bay
PM:Isabela: Tagus Cove
Tuesday Jan 24 AM:Fernandina: Espinosa Point
PM:Isabela: Albemarle Point
Wednesday Jan 25 AM:Santiago: Egas Port
PM:Santiago: Espumilla Beach/Boucanier Cove
Thursday Jan 26 AM:Santa Cruz: Dragon Hill
PM:Santa Cruz: Black Turtle Cove
Friday Jan 27 AM:Rabida: Rabida
PM:Chinese Hat: Chinese hat
Saturday Jan 28 AM:Seymour: Seymour
Rates from $6389 per person double occupancy 2 twin bed share
INCLUDES:
Private Transfers
2 nights hotel in Quito twin share
8 day cruise twin share
internal flights Quito to Baltra Island.
airport assistance
Transfers in Galapagos
Accommodation in double cabin (Share)
All meals during the cruise
Naturalist Bilingual Guide
All visits and excursions according to the itinerary
Snorkel Gear (mask, tube and fins)
Kayaks, paddle boards
Unlimited purified water, coffee and tea
Wetsuits, soft drinks, beach towels
Local flight to/from Galapagos
Galapagos National Park Entrance fee
Galapagos Transit fee
NOT INCLUDED
International flights to/from Quito
(Delta via Atlanta roughly $1145* - $1400 additional )
Alcoholic drinks
Tips Local Taxes
Travel Insurance Service
Only 10 spots available - First come first serve!
*Note must be able to climb in and out of dinghy as many of the islands that is the only way to get there from the boat.
Deposit $1000 per person (non-refundable)
Final due Dec 15, 2023
Insurance Highly recommended
Passports Required!
Need more information -
Contact Sue Thompson [email protected]
952-240-3180
The Galapagos archipelago is one of the most beautiful and untouched places on the earth.
Travel back in time with the authentic Galapagos local experts.
Feel the fresh breeze of Galapagos and admire landscapes and wildlife
on a relaxing vacation aboard The 16 passenger M/Y Galaxy Yacht.
Jan 19 - 29, 2023
This 9-night journey will be amazing! Unleash your adventurous spirit as you travel on a unique expedition cruise, where you'll explore the diverse islands and ecosystems of the Galápagos Archipelago. Experience the pristine beauty of this equatorial region where you may get up close with the many endemic species, including marine iguanas, Giant Land Tortoises, sea lions, blue-footed boobies and many more.
Jan 19 Starting in Quito, Ecuador we stay for two nights
Jan 21 Fly over to Baltra Island to meet up with our crew and board our 16 passenger yacht the M/Y Galaxy.
Jan 21 - 28, 2023
Each day explore a new and different island by foot or by dinghy, kayak and snorkeling.
The Dinghy Rides are also known as the “Pangas”.
This is a common activity that you can experience as it is the only way by which you can embark and desembark from ships in order to reach the sites. These are rides on an inflated zodiac that take you through the waters while you take a closer look at the marine life around the islands.
Saturday Jan 21 AM:Reception in Baltra and transfer to the boat
PM:Santa Cruz: Highlands
Sunday Jan 22 AM:Isabela: Moreno Point
PM:Isabela: Elizabeth Bay
Monday Jan 23 AM:Isabela: Urbina Bay
PM:Isabela: Tagus Cove
Tuesday Jan 24 AM:Fernandina: Espinosa Point
PM:Isabela: Albemarle Point
Wednesday Jan 25 AM:Santiago: Egas Port
PM:Santiago: Espumilla Beach/Boucanier Cove
Thursday Jan 26 AM:Santa Cruz: Dragon Hill
PM:Santa Cruz: Black Turtle Cove
Friday Jan 27 AM:Rabida: Rabida
PM:Chinese Hat: Chinese hat
Saturday Jan 28 AM:Seymour: Seymour
Rates from $6389 per person double occupancy 2 twin bed share
INCLUDES:
Private Transfers
2 nights hotel in Quito twin share
8 day cruise twin share
internal flights Quito to Baltra Island.
airport assistance
Transfers in Galapagos
Accommodation in double cabin (Share)
All meals during the cruise
Naturalist Bilingual Guide
All visits and excursions according to the itinerary
Snorkel Gear (mask, tube and fins)
Kayaks, paddle boards
Unlimited purified water, coffee and tea
Wetsuits, soft drinks, beach towels
Local flight to/from Galapagos
Galapagos National Park Entrance fee
Galapagos Transit fee
NOT INCLUDED
International flights to/from Quito
(Delta via Atlanta roughly $1145* - $1400 additional )
Alcoholic drinks
Tips Local Taxes
Travel Insurance Service
Only 10 spots available - First come first serve!
*Note must be able to climb in and out of dinghy as many of the islands that is the only way to get there from the boat.
Deposit $1000 per person (non-refundable)
Final due Dec 15, 2023
Insurance Highly recommended
Passports Required!
Need more information -
Contact Sue Thompson [email protected]
952-240-3180
Ready to go! Fill out Registration and pay Deposit Here!
Pay Deposit $1000.00 click on button below
GALAPAGOS ON BOARD A CRUISE 8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS YACHT GALAXY
Itinerary Overview Day 1: Baltra Airport – Highlands
Day 2: Moreno Point – Elizabeth Bay
Day 3: Urbina Bay – Tagus Cove
Day 4: Espinoza Point – Albemarle Point
Day 5: Egas Port – Espumilla Beach / Buccaneer Cove
Day 6: Dragon Hill – Black Turtle Cove
Day 7: Rabida – Chinese Hat
Day 8: Seymour – Baltra Airport
Itinerary Overview Day 1: Baltra Airport – Highlands
Day 2: Moreno Point – Elizabeth Bay
Day 3: Urbina Bay – Tagus Cove
Day 4: Espinoza Point – Albemarle Point
Day 5: Egas Port – Espumilla Beach / Buccaneer Cove
Day 6: Dragon Hill – Black Turtle Cove
Day 7: Rabida – Chinese Hat
Day 8: Seymour – Baltra Airport
Jan 19 - 21 Quito Hotel
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Jan 20 We are met by our local guide Maria Explore the Historical Center with Food tour
Our tour starts in the morning to address the historical center where we will have the opportunity to visit some of the churches including the famous Compañia de Jesus which is one of the most beautiful ones in South America of course our walking tour is necessary because is the best way to enjoy the view and to feel the local enviroment of the squares, old buildings and people, we will start walking around the Independence square (main square) where are located the buildings of the President Palace, Catedral, ArchBishop Palace and the City Hall but our tour continues on the way to the Panecillo this is one of the view points from where we have a great view of Quito, if you want to know a litlle more of what do we eat in Ecuador do not miss to go to visit one of our local markets (indoors market) and learn about our delicious fresh fruit and vegetables we have and maybe you will find some of this ingredients in your lunch or dinner finally we will have lunch in one of the local restaurants.
Our tour starts in the morning to address the historical center where we will have the opportunity to visit some of the churches including the famous Compañia de Jesus which is one of the most beautiful ones in South America of course our walking tour is necessary because is the best way to enjoy the view and to feel the local enviroment of the squares, old buildings and people, we will start walking around the Independence square (main square) where are located the buildings of the President Palace, Catedral, ArchBishop Palace and the City Hall but our tour continues on the way to the Panecillo this is one of the view points from where we have a great view of Quito, if you want to know a litlle more of what do we eat in Ecuador do not miss to go to visit one of our local markets (indoors market) and learn about our delicious fresh fruit and vegetables we have and maybe you will find some of this ingredients in your lunch or dinner finally we will have lunch in one of the local restaurants.
Detailed Day to Day Itinerary
Jan 21 DAY 1
AM: BALTRA AIRPORT Departure to the Galapagos Islands, arrival at Baltra airport, where our naturalist guide of the National Park will be waiting for you.
PM: HIGHLANDS
Either if you do this visit starting from Baltra or from Puerto Ayora, a bus will take you to the highlands stopping along the way at one of the reserves to visit the lush highland forests where you will look for Galapagos Giant tortoises in their natural environment. This is the best place in the Galapagos to see these gentle giants (reaching over 300 kg / 600 pounds!) casually grazing and resting in freshwater ponds. This is also home for a great diversity of birds rarely found at the lowlands, including finches (tree, woodpecker and vegetarian finches), flycatchers and several species of water birds. You will visit a lava tunnel (depend on the itinerary) and learn how these extraordinary formations where created by ancient volcanic eruptions.
Highlights: Giant tortoises, Darwin finches, barn owls, white-cheeked pintails, Galapagos flycatchers, Lava tunnels.
Trail: 1-1,5 km / 0,6-0,9 miMeals: Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: Yacht Galaxy
Jan 21 DAY 1
AM: BALTRA AIRPORT Departure to the Galapagos Islands, arrival at Baltra airport, where our naturalist guide of the National Park will be waiting for you.
PM: HIGHLANDS
Either if you do this visit starting from Baltra or from Puerto Ayora, a bus will take you to the highlands stopping along the way at one of the reserves to visit the lush highland forests where you will look for Galapagos Giant tortoises in their natural environment. This is the best place in the Galapagos to see these gentle giants (reaching over 300 kg / 600 pounds!) casually grazing and resting in freshwater ponds. This is also home for a great diversity of birds rarely found at the lowlands, including finches (tree, woodpecker and vegetarian finches), flycatchers and several species of water birds. You will visit a lava tunnel (depend on the itinerary) and learn how these extraordinary formations where created by ancient volcanic eruptions.
Highlights: Giant tortoises, Darwin finches, barn owls, white-cheeked pintails, Galapagos flycatchers, Lava tunnels.
Trail: 1-1,5 km / 0,6-0,9 miMeals: Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: Yacht Galaxy
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Jan 22 DAY 2
AM: MORENO POINT
Moreno Point is a magical place with extensive lava fields which look lifeless at first sight. Once inland, scattered brackish lagoons form oasis of life where you can find flamingoes, gallinules, ducks and herons. Along the shore we will look for penguins, marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, blue-footed boobies, sea lions, oystercatchers and other shore birds.
Snorkel: We will snorkel to see sea turtles, cormorants and many species of fish. Look carefully in the long seaweeds and you might find a sea horse.
Highlights: American flamingoes, ducks, gallinules, penguins, cormorants, marine iguanas, sea lions, Galapagos mockingbirds, Darwin finches.
Trail: 1,6 km / 1 mi
PM: ELIZABETH BAY
Elizabeth Bay is a beautiful sheltered bay surrounded by large mangroves and barren lava fields. There is no trail here so you will take a dinghy tour to explore many channels, pools and coves teeming with life. This is one of the best locations in the islands to see Galapagos penguins, but don’t expect to see thousands of them, as the entire population of the islands is only about 3.000 of them. Flightless cormorants also nest in the area and blue-footed boobies and pelicans often fish in these shallow and rich waters. Rays and sea turtles are also very abundant.
Highlights: Galapagos hawks, sea turtles, rays, Galapagos penguins, flightless cormorants, herons.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: Yacht Galaxy
AM: MORENO POINT
Moreno Point is a magical place with extensive lava fields which look lifeless at first sight. Once inland, scattered brackish lagoons form oasis of life where you can find flamingoes, gallinules, ducks and herons. Along the shore we will look for penguins, marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, blue-footed boobies, sea lions, oystercatchers and other shore birds.
Snorkel: We will snorkel to see sea turtles, cormorants and many species of fish. Look carefully in the long seaweeds and you might find a sea horse.
Highlights: American flamingoes, ducks, gallinules, penguins, cormorants, marine iguanas, sea lions, Galapagos mockingbirds, Darwin finches.
Trail: 1,6 km / 1 mi
PM: ELIZABETH BAY
Elizabeth Bay is a beautiful sheltered bay surrounded by large mangroves and barren lava fields. There is no trail here so you will take a dinghy tour to explore many channels, pools and coves teeming with life. This is one of the best locations in the islands to see Galapagos penguins, but don’t expect to see thousands of them, as the entire population of the islands is only about 3.000 of them. Flightless cormorants also nest in the area and blue-footed boobies and pelicans often fish in these shallow and rich waters. Rays and sea turtles are also very abundant.
Highlights: Galapagos hawks, sea turtles, rays, Galapagos penguins, flightless cormorants, herons.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: Yacht Galaxy
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Jan 23 DAY 3
AM: URBINA BAY
This place is known for the dramatic uplifting that happened here during the 1950’s. A large portion of the coast was pushed up, exposing many hectares of previously submerged land. Look carefully along the trail and you will find small shells and corals, a proof that the area was underwater more than sixty years ago. The trail will give the opportunity to see land iguanas and, during certain seasons, giant tortoises. Galapagos hawks nest in the area and are often seen flying or perched on the trees.
Snorkel: You can snorkel from the beach to see sea turtles, cormorants and penguins. Fish are also abundant in the area.
Highlights: Galapagos hawks, land iguanas, Galapagos hawks, Galapagos mockingbirds, Darwin finches, flycatchers.
Trail: Short trail: 1,2 km / 0,7 mi. Long Trail: 3,0 km / 1,8 mi
PM: TAGUS COVE
Tagus cove is one of the places Charles Darwin visited during his exploration of the Galapagos islands. A trail will take you through a dry Palo Santo forests where you can see Darwin finches and mockingbirds. You will get great views of Darwin’s lake and the large volcanos of northern Isabela.
A boat tour along the shore will give you chances to see penguins, cormorants, marine iguanas and a very unique species: the Galapagos martin, a small endemic bird which is one of the most endangered species on the island.
Snorkel: The nutrient-rich waters around Tagus Cove attracts a lot of sea turtles and a great diversity of fish, but also penguins, who feast on large schools of anchovies. It is common to see cormorants underwater as they chase fish through the reef.
Highlights: Galapagos hawks, marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, herons, penguins, sea turtles, sea stars.
Trail: 2,6 km / 1,6 mi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: Yacht Galaxy
AM: URBINA BAY
This place is known for the dramatic uplifting that happened here during the 1950’s. A large portion of the coast was pushed up, exposing many hectares of previously submerged land. Look carefully along the trail and you will find small shells and corals, a proof that the area was underwater more than sixty years ago. The trail will give the opportunity to see land iguanas and, during certain seasons, giant tortoises. Galapagos hawks nest in the area and are often seen flying or perched on the trees.
Snorkel: You can snorkel from the beach to see sea turtles, cormorants and penguins. Fish are also abundant in the area.
Highlights: Galapagos hawks, land iguanas, Galapagos hawks, Galapagos mockingbirds, Darwin finches, flycatchers.
Trail: Short trail: 1,2 km / 0,7 mi. Long Trail: 3,0 km / 1,8 mi
PM: TAGUS COVE
Tagus cove is one of the places Charles Darwin visited during his exploration of the Galapagos islands. A trail will take you through a dry Palo Santo forests where you can see Darwin finches and mockingbirds. You will get great views of Darwin’s lake and the large volcanos of northern Isabela.
A boat tour along the shore will give you chances to see penguins, cormorants, marine iguanas and a very unique species: the Galapagos martin, a small endemic bird which is one of the most endangered species on the island.
Snorkel: The nutrient-rich waters around Tagus Cove attracts a lot of sea turtles and a great diversity of fish, but also penguins, who feast on large schools of anchovies. It is common to see cormorants underwater as they chase fish through the reef.
Highlights: Galapagos hawks, marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, herons, penguins, sea turtles, sea stars.
Trail: 2,6 km / 1,6 mi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: Yacht Galaxy
Jan 24 DAY 4
AM: ESPINOZA POINT
Located at the base of an imposing volcano (the most active in the Galapagos islands) this site is one of the jewels of the Galapagos National Park. As soon as you disembark you will be surrounded by hundreds of marine iguanas, as this is the largest colony for the species. Sea lions bask in the beaches while their pups play in tide pools. Along the shore you will see flightless cormorants, which are restricted to the western areas of the archipelago. Surrounded by cold plankton-rich waters, Punta Espinosa is home for an array of species, including herons, pelicans, oystercatchers, sea turtles, shorebird and many more. Look up in the mangroves as Galapagos hawks often perch to look for their prey.
Snorkel: The nutrient-rich waters around Punta Espinosa attracts great numbers and diversity of fish and sea turtles. Seaweeds are also abundant, making this place the best for seeing marine iguanas feeding underwater. Following a cormorant underwater as it chases fish through the reef is one on the most amazing snorkel experiences you may have on your trip.
Highlights: Galapagos hawks, marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, penguins, sea turtles, sea lions, herons, oystercatchers, shorebirds, sally light-foot crabs.
Trail: 1,6 km / 1 mi
AM: ESPINOZA POINT
Located at the base of an imposing volcano (the most active in the Galapagos islands) this site is one of the jewels of the Galapagos National Park. As soon as you disembark you will be surrounded by hundreds of marine iguanas, as this is the largest colony for the species. Sea lions bask in the beaches while their pups play in tide pools. Along the shore you will see flightless cormorants, which are restricted to the western areas of the archipelago. Surrounded by cold plankton-rich waters, Punta Espinosa is home for an array of species, including herons, pelicans, oystercatchers, sea turtles, shorebird and many more. Look up in the mangroves as Galapagos hawks often perch to look for their prey.
Snorkel: The nutrient-rich waters around Punta Espinosa attracts great numbers and diversity of fish and sea turtles. Seaweeds are also abundant, making this place the best for seeing marine iguanas feeding underwater. Following a cormorant underwater as it chases fish through the reef is one on the most amazing snorkel experiences you may have on your trip.
Highlights: Galapagos hawks, marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, penguins, sea turtles, sea lions, herons, oystercatchers, shorebirds, sally light-foot crabs.
Trail: 1,6 km / 1 mi
PM: ALBEMARLE POINT
This place is great for wildlife as well as an historical site. During WWII, the Americans built a radar base in order to detect the presence of Japanese war ships approaching the Galapagos. You can still see a few remains of the radar. The area is barren and surrounded by endless lava fields, but along the coast you will find some of the largest marine iguanas in the islands, Galapagos penguins, flightless cormorants and shorebirds.
Snorkel: A couple of sheltered coves offer great opportunities to snorkel to look for cormorants, penguins and many species of fish.
Highlights: Marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, penguins, sea turtles, shorebirds, sally light-foot crabs.
Trail: 1,0 km / 0,6 mi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: Yacht Galaxy
This place is great for wildlife as well as an historical site. During WWII, the Americans built a radar base in order to detect the presence of Japanese war ships approaching the Galapagos. You can still see a few remains of the radar. The area is barren and surrounded by endless lava fields, but along the coast you will find some of the largest marine iguanas in the islands, Galapagos penguins, flightless cormorants and shorebirds.
Snorkel: A couple of sheltered coves offer great opportunities to snorkel to look for cormorants, penguins and many species of fish.
Highlights: Marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, penguins, sea turtles, shorebirds, sally light-foot crabs.
Trail: 1,0 km / 0,6 mi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: Yacht Galaxy
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Jan 25 DAY 5
AM: EGAS PORT
Despite its name, there is no “port” at Puerto Egas, but you might see a few remains of the last attempts to colonize the island during the 60’s. The trail goes along the coastline which is rich in wildlife, with marine iguanas basking in the sun everywhere, Galapagos sea lions, herons, oystercatchers and many shorebirds. At the end of the trail an area called “the grottos” is home for a small colony of the endemic Galapagos fur seal, much more difficult to see at close range than its cousin. As recently as 2019, land iguanas where re-introduced to the area, so look around for these impressive reptiles which where extinct from Santiago for over a century.
Snorkel: You can snorkel from the beach and explore an area of rocky bottoms which is excellent for fish, turtles and reef sharks. Often, sea lions are also present and are happy to interact with divers.
Highlights: Galapagos sea lions, Galapagos fur seals, oystercatchers, marine & land iguanas, Galapagos hawks, herons, shorebirds, Darwin finches, Galapagos doves.
Trail: 2,3 km / 1,4 mi
PM: ESPUMILLA BEACH / BUCCANEER COVE
Espumilla is a beautiful 1km (0,6 mi) long beach with rusty-brown sand, located in the northern coast of Santiago. It is surrounded by large mangrove trees and a very interesting native dry forest, which is home to Galapagos hawks but also a great diversity of finches, mockingbirds and doves. Don’t forget to check the salt pan, as during the rainy season there could be flamingoes and ducks.
Highlights: Bobbies, oystercatchers, herons, Galapagos mockingbirds, Darwin finches, Galapagos hawks.
Trail: 2,3 km / 1,4 mi (plus and extra loop 1 km – 0,6 mi)
This site gets its name because it was used by pirates and buccaneers during the XVII and XVIII centuries as a place to hide and get freshwater and tortoises. The place is very scenic with beautiful cliffs and interesting rock formations. There is no trail, but here you will take a dinghy to look at wildlife from the small boats.
Snorkel: You can snorkel in a sheltered bay which is teaming with underwater wildlife including large schools of fish (angelfish, puffers, parrotfish, snappers, grunts…) but also reek sharks, sea lions and sea turtles.
Highlights: Boobies, herons, Galapagos fur seals, swallow-tailed gulls, Galapagos hawks.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: Yacht Galaxy
AM: EGAS PORT
Despite its name, there is no “port” at Puerto Egas, but you might see a few remains of the last attempts to colonize the island during the 60’s. The trail goes along the coastline which is rich in wildlife, with marine iguanas basking in the sun everywhere, Galapagos sea lions, herons, oystercatchers and many shorebirds. At the end of the trail an area called “the grottos” is home for a small colony of the endemic Galapagos fur seal, much more difficult to see at close range than its cousin. As recently as 2019, land iguanas where re-introduced to the area, so look around for these impressive reptiles which where extinct from Santiago for over a century.
Snorkel: You can snorkel from the beach and explore an area of rocky bottoms which is excellent for fish, turtles and reef sharks. Often, sea lions are also present and are happy to interact with divers.
Highlights: Galapagos sea lions, Galapagos fur seals, oystercatchers, marine & land iguanas, Galapagos hawks, herons, shorebirds, Darwin finches, Galapagos doves.
Trail: 2,3 km / 1,4 mi
PM: ESPUMILLA BEACH / BUCCANEER COVE
Espumilla is a beautiful 1km (0,6 mi) long beach with rusty-brown sand, located in the northern coast of Santiago. It is surrounded by large mangrove trees and a very interesting native dry forest, which is home to Galapagos hawks but also a great diversity of finches, mockingbirds and doves. Don’t forget to check the salt pan, as during the rainy season there could be flamingoes and ducks.
Highlights: Bobbies, oystercatchers, herons, Galapagos mockingbirds, Darwin finches, Galapagos hawks.
Trail: 2,3 km / 1,4 mi (plus and extra loop 1 km – 0,6 mi)
This site gets its name because it was used by pirates and buccaneers during the XVII and XVIII centuries as a place to hide and get freshwater and tortoises. The place is very scenic with beautiful cliffs and interesting rock formations. There is no trail, but here you will take a dinghy to look at wildlife from the small boats.
Snorkel: You can snorkel in a sheltered bay which is teaming with underwater wildlife including large schools of fish (angelfish, puffers, parrotfish, snappers, grunts…) but also reek sharks, sea lions and sea turtles.
Highlights: Boobies, herons, Galapagos fur seals, swallow-tailed gulls, Galapagos hawks.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: Yacht Galaxy
Jan 26 DAY 6
AM: DRAGON HILL
Located in the northern coast of Santa Cruz, Dragon hill gets its name from the land iguanas that inhabit this area, the only location in the whole island of Santa Cruz where you can see this large species of reptiles. Thanks to a very successful breeding program, this population of land iguanas, which was in the brink of extinction during the 70’s and 80’s, has rapidly recovered. There is also a small salt water lagoon where we can often see flamingoes, ducks, stilts, sandpipers and other shorebirds.
Snorkel: After the hike, you will have the option to snorkel in shallow sheltered water where you will see large schools of surgeonfish and parrotfish, as well as reef sharks, rays and a large diversity of tropical fish.
Highlights: Galapagos land iguanas, Darwin finches, American flamingoes, white-cheeked pintails, Galapagos flycatchers, herons.
Trail: 2,2 km / 1,4 mi
PM: BLACK TURTLE COVE
Black Turtle Cove gets its name from the abundance of green see turtles, locally known as: “tortugas negras”. There is no landing here so you will be doing a boat tour on the dinghies, exploring shallow channels and small coves surrounded by beautiful mangrove forests. Reef sharks, sea turtles and several species rays inhabit this beautiful area which is considered an important mating area for turtles and a nursery for several species of sharks. Herons, pelicans and boobies are also common here as they prey in schools of anchovies.
Highlights: White-tipped and black-tipped reef sharks, green see turtles, rays, herons, blue-footed boobies, mangroves.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: Yacht Galaxy
AM: DRAGON HILL
Located in the northern coast of Santa Cruz, Dragon hill gets its name from the land iguanas that inhabit this area, the only location in the whole island of Santa Cruz where you can see this large species of reptiles. Thanks to a very successful breeding program, this population of land iguanas, which was in the brink of extinction during the 70’s and 80’s, has rapidly recovered. There is also a small salt water lagoon where we can often see flamingoes, ducks, stilts, sandpipers and other shorebirds.
Snorkel: After the hike, you will have the option to snorkel in shallow sheltered water where you will see large schools of surgeonfish and parrotfish, as well as reef sharks, rays and a large diversity of tropical fish.
Highlights: Galapagos land iguanas, Darwin finches, American flamingoes, white-cheeked pintails, Galapagos flycatchers, herons.
Trail: 2,2 km / 1,4 mi
PM: BLACK TURTLE COVE
Black Turtle Cove gets its name from the abundance of green see turtles, locally known as: “tortugas negras”. There is no landing here so you will be doing a boat tour on the dinghies, exploring shallow channels and small coves surrounded by beautiful mangrove forests. Reef sharks, sea turtles and several species rays inhabit this beautiful area which is considered an important mating area for turtles and a nursery for several species of sharks. Herons, pelicans and boobies are also common here as they prey in schools of anchovies.
Highlights: White-tipped and black-tipped reef sharks, green see turtles, rays, herons, blue-footed boobies, mangroves.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: Yacht Galaxy
Jan 27 DAY 7
AM: RABIDA
Rábida is a small island famous for its reddish lava rocks (rich in iron) which gives it a unique look. The beach is also red and hosts a small colony of sea lions. There is a small salt water lagoon where we will see ducks and stilts and sometimes flamingoes. The trail will take you inland to get beautiful views of the beach and the lagoon. Look for Darwin finches, flycatchers and mockingbirds. In the cliffs along the coast you can find Nazca & blue-footed boobies, brown noddy, herons and the two species of sea lions: Galapagos and fur seals.
Snorkel: You can snorkel from the beach and explore a sheltered rocky area, which is excellent for fish, sea lions and reef sharks. Look at the high diversity of small invertebrates attached to the vertical walls.
Highlights: Red-sand beach, Galapagos sea lions, Galapagos hawks, flycatchers, Darwin finches, Galapagos mockingbirds, ducks, flamingoes.
Trail: 2 km / 1,2 mi
PM: CHINESE HAT
This small islet is formed by a volcanic cone with a perfect symmetrical shape. It is separated from Santiago by a narrow channel forming one of the most beautiful bays in the islands. Blue-turquoise water and coral sand beaches surrounded by dark lava rocks gives this area a real tropical character, which makes even more surprising finding penguins resting in the rocks. The trail goes along the shore, taking you through a small colony of sea lions.
Snorkel: When you swim in this place you will get mesmerized by the incredible colors of the fish and the sleek silhouette of reef sharks and, it is not uncommon to see a penguin darting through the water chasing anchovies like a small torpedo.
Highlights: Galapagos sea lions, Galapagos penguins, lava tubes, oystercatchers, Galapagos hawks.
Trail: 1,3 km / 0,8 mi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: Yacht Galaxy
AM: RABIDA
Rábida is a small island famous for its reddish lava rocks (rich in iron) which gives it a unique look. The beach is also red and hosts a small colony of sea lions. There is a small salt water lagoon where we will see ducks and stilts and sometimes flamingoes. The trail will take you inland to get beautiful views of the beach and the lagoon. Look for Darwin finches, flycatchers and mockingbirds. In the cliffs along the coast you can find Nazca & blue-footed boobies, brown noddy, herons and the two species of sea lions: Galapagos and fur seals.
Snorkel: You can snorkel from the beach and explore a sheltered rocky area, which is excellent for fish, sea lions and reef sharks. Look at the high diversity of small invertebrates attached to the vertical walls.
Highlights: Red-sand beach, Galapagos sea lions, Galapagos hawks, flycatchers, Darwin finches, Galapagos mockingbirds, ducks, flamingoes.
Trail: 2 km / 1,2 mi
PM: CHINESE HAT
This small islet is formed by a volcanic cone with a perfect symmetrical shape. It is separated from Santiago by a narrow channel forming one of the most beautiful bays in the islands. Blue-turquoise water and coral sand beaches surrounded by dark lava rocks gives this area a real tropical character, which makes even more surprising finding penguins resting in the rocks. The trail goes along the shore, taking you through a small colony of sea lions.
Snorkel: When you swim in this place you will get mesmerized by the incredible colors of the fish and the sleek silhouette of reef sharks and, it is not uncommon to see a penguin darting through the water chasing anchovies like a small torpedo.
Highlights: Galapagos sea lions, Galapagos penguins, lava tubes, oystercatchers, Galapagos hawks.
Trail: 1,3 km / 0,8 mi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: Yacht Galaxy
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Jan 28 DAY 8
AM: SEYMOUR
This island is home for large colonies of both magnificent and great frigatebirds and you can see them displaying their red balloons to attract a female. Blue-footed boobies nest in the ground and perform their famous dance in the open areas, while swallow-tailed gulls perch on the cliff edges. Land iguanas are common inland while their marine cousins bask in the rocks by the sea, close to sea lions, which often like to body surf in the waves.
Snorkel: This place is a really great snorkeling location, as it has tremendous diversity and amount of fish, but also sea lions, sharks, eels, turtles, rays and many more.
Highlights: Galapagos sea lions, blue footed boobies, magnificent & great frigatebirds, land & marine iguanas, swallow-tailed gulls, shearwaters, Darwin finches.
Trail: 1,4 km / 0,8 mi
Then, transfer to the airport to take your flight back to continental Ecuador.
Meals: Breakfast
AM: SEYMOUR
This island is home for large colonies of both magnificent and great frigatebirds and you can see them displaying their red balloons to attract a female. Blue-footed boobies nest in the ground and perform their famous dance in the open areas, while swallow-tailed gulls perch on the cliff edges. Land iguanas are common inland while their marine cousins bask in the rocks by the sea, close to sea lions, which often like to body surf in the waves.
Snorkel: This place is a really great snorkeling location, as it has tremendous diversity and amount of fish, but also sea lions, sharks, eels, turtles, rays and many more.
Highlights: Galapagos sea lions, blue footed boobies, magnificent & great frigatebirds, land & marine iguanas, swallow-tailed gulls, shearwaters, Darwin finches.
Trail: 1,4 km / 0,8 mi
Then, transfer to the airport to take your flight back to continental Ecuador.
Meals: Breakfast