This 5-day Galápagos expedition is a compact, well-paced island-hopping experience designed to combine the archipelago’s most iconic wildlife encounters with active exploration. By staying on the inhabited islands, you’ll enjoy a deeper sense of place while making the most of every day in the Galápagos.
Highlights include snorkeling through the lava formations and crystal-clear waters of Los Túneles, a relaxed bike ride through Isabela’s wetlands, and close marine encounters at Tintoreras, where sea lions, marine iguanas, and reef life gather. On Santa Cruz, you’ll visit a giant tortoise reserve in the highlands and explore the work of conservation at the Charles Darwin Research Station. Traveling by speedboat and staying in locally owned hotels, this small-group journey is guided by expert naturalist guides and supports local communities—offering an immersive and meaningful way to experience the Galápagos beyond the highlights.
Travelers can start this trip on any date of their preference. They must arrive at or before 11:30 am at Baltra Airport (airport code GPS) and depart after 12:30 (noon) from Baltra Airport (airport code GPS).
We can arrange early/late pick-ups, but please get in touch with us before booking your flights.
Start your trip at Baltra airport, where you'll be picked up by our staff to then head to Puerto Ayora.
Embark on the afternoon boat to Isabela Island. On your arrival, you'll be met by our local coordinator to start your adventure.
Navigate from Puerto Villamil to Los Tuneles. Explore the collapsed lava tunnels, spot blue-footed boobies and brown pelicans. Snorkel at Cabo Rosa and spot Pacific green sea turtles, golden rays, white-tip reef sharks, and Galapagos penguins. Today is all about the wonders of the ocean.
Start your morning biking to the Wetlands of Isabela and the Wall of Tears. Today, you'll learn about the controversial political history of the islands while spotting giant tortoises on the way.
After a morning of biking, you'll embark on a small boat to have a short ride to the islet. You'll have a 45-minute walk to spot marine iguanas and frigatebirds. Then, you'll snorkel in the calm waters of the bay to spot white-tip reef sharks, colorful fish, and more endemic wildlife.
Embark on an early-morning boat to Santa Cruz. On your arrival, our staff will meet you and take you to your designated hotel. After a short break, you'll visit the Charles Darwin Station and the Breeding Cente,r where you'll learn all about the efforts to protect this fragile ecosystem.
After a morning of learning, we will head to the highlands of Santa Cruz. You'll visit a Giant Tortoise farm where you'll spot these amazing creatures in their natural habitat. Walk through lava tunnels and visit the Twins: the largest sinkholes of the islands, formed by the collapse of empty underground magma chambers.
Enjoy a last stroll in Puerto Ayora, wander around town before you're picked up to go to Baltra airport. The pick-up time will be according to your departure flight.
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
You will not receive a refund if you cancel.
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