10 Days Galapagos Island Hopping in Santa Cruz & Isabela

Welcome to Quito, the capital of Ecuador! Arrive at the Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO), where your driver will meet you to transfer to your accommodation in the Tumbaco neighborhood, a half-hour trip from the airport.

After arriving at Baltra Airport, a local guide will meet you. On the way to Puerto Ayora, stop at a local farm in the highlands, where dozens of giant tortoises live. Wander among them to appreciate these majestic creatures. Then enjoy lunch before continuing to your destination. In the afternoon, visit the Charles Darwin Research Station. Witness first-hand the work of international scientists who come to the Galápagos to carry out environmental projects. Head to the nearby Fausto Llerena Breeding Center, where giant Galápagos tortoises breed and are cared for. This is the best place on the islands to see different tortoise species and learn more about each of them and their fascinating lives.

• Breakfast
• Lunch

Embark on an unforgettable adventure to explore the stunning beauty of the Galápagos Islands. During this part of the trip, there is the chance to visit Santa Fé, South Plaza, Bartolomé, or North Seymour, depending on the permit granted by the National Park authorities for that day's activities. Set sail and witness the awe-inspiring vista of turquoise waters and the rocky shorelines of the archipelago. An expert guide leads a hike to explore the untouched natural habitats of the islands and to discover an array of exotic flora and fauna. After a morning of exploration, take a break back on board for a scrumptious lunch, before continuing the journey. Relax on the pristine beaches and soak up the sun, or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters for a refreshing swim. Afterward, return to Puerto Ayora, invigorated and inspired by the natural wonders of the Galápagos Islands.

• Breakfast
• Lunch

After a delicious breakfast, we have reserved kayaks for you at Tortuga Bay. A 45- minute hike will lead you to Tortuga Bay, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Galapagos. When you are done kayaking, you may stay for sunbathing or snorkeling. Late afternoon at leisure.

• Breakfast

Start your morning with a public speed boat trip to Isabela Island, a 2-hour trip. After lunch, join a group tour for a visit to the Tintoreras Islet for a short hike and some snorkeling. See Humboldt penguins, marine iguanas, sea lions, and sharks, which rest in the natural channels formed by lava flows. Afterward, snorkel in the turquoise water and spot different fish, sea turtles, rays, and penguins. The evening is free, with an overnight stay on Isabela Island.

• Breakfast

The majestic Sierra Negra Volcano will occupy today's agenda. Our adventure starts with a journey from Puerto Villamil to the beginning of the trail. Once there, we will prepare our backpacks and start our walk through the relatively young woods, which suffer from constant geological changes. You'll do a six-hour roundtrip hike to its summit, from where you'll get to see the second-largest volcanic crater in the world. Walk around spectacular lava landscapes, taking in the northern volcanoes in Isabela and Fernandina Islands. During your climb, make sure to be on the lookout for the unique vegetation that inhabits the area. Your finishing point is the edge of the Sierra Negra Volcano’s crater, this volcano is still active. Once at the edge of the crater, you will have spectacular views of the crater and the volcanoes that surround it. The circumference of the crater is huge, with a diameter of almost 10 km along with its widest point. You'll have some free time after you get back to Isabela Island. If you still have energy, you can head to a beach or snorkel at Concha Perla.

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• Lunch

Have fun with an exciting free day on Isabela Island. Rent a bike and visit the famous Wall of Tears, built with the forced labor of prisoners at the island's former penal colony. Then, ride to different viewpoints on the island. If you prefer to spend the day on the water, Concha Perla (near Puerto Villamil) offers lots of opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, or sunbathing on the beach. For a quiet day of relaxation, stick around the hotel, and enjoy the island's tranquility.

• Breakfast

Early in the morning, you will take the public speedboat back to Santa Cruz Island and in the afternoon you will be taken on a small boat to visit exotic places along the bay of Santa Cruz. You will arrive at the small islet called La Lobería named for the great colony of sea lions where you can snorkel around sea lions and tropical fish displaying a dazzling show beneath the surface against interesting underwater formations. Afterward, at the Shark Channel, you may spot harmless white-tip sharks and blue- footed boobies, you’ll come upon the Canal del Amor where you may find sea turtles and many tropical fish varieties. Taking a 10-minute walk you’ll see marine iguanas in their natural habitat and have plenty of opportunities to take pictures. Lastly, you will visit Las Grietas, which are two large cliffs separate filled with freshwater towards the top of the surface and salt water below.

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Depending on the time of your flight, you might have some free time this morning to do some last-minute souvenir shopping in Puerto Ayora. Your driver will transfer you to the ferry across the Itabaca Channel. For the last part of your trip to the airport, you'll take the public shuttle bus to the terminal and check-in for your flight. Farewell Galapagos!

• Breakfast

Today you are free to explore Quito on your own before getting picked up for your transfer to the airport. At the designated time, meet with your driver at the hotel and head to the airport for your flight home.

• Breakfast