5 Day Western Islands Cruise A | Archipel I

Upon your arrival at Baltra Airport, you will be met by a representative who will transfer you to your accommodation. Please note that you will have to pay your Galapagos National Park entrance fee and have your luggage inspected before proceeding.

In the afternoon, you will visit the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center, where you will have the opportunity to see the tortoises of Española Island up close. This breeding center is dedicated to the conservation of giant tortoises and plays an important role in the preservation of the species. Your tour will end in the tortoise exhibit corral, where you can take photographs with the tortoises. These tortoises are accustomed to humans, so it is an excellent spot for some great pictures!

After breakfast, you will head out to Moreno Point, located on the southwestern coast of Isabela Island. This unique site offers a striking contrast between the fresh, promising greens of pioneer vegetation and the dead, pitch-black lava flow that once reached the ocean. Your naturalist guide will lead you on a hike through this rugged terrain, where you can observe the various species that have adapted to this harsh environment, such as marine iguanas, lava lizards, and Sally Lightfoot crabs.

In the afternoon, you will visit Urbina Bay, which is located at the base of Alcedo Volcano on the western coast of Isabela Island. This coastal plain is exceptional, attracting prehistoric giants in the wild, such as the largest land iguanas. Your naturalist guide will lead you on a hike through the unique vegetation, where you can spot these impressive creatures in their natural habitat. You may also see Galapagos tortoises, Darwin's finches, and other species that call this area home.

After breakfast, you will head out to Espinoza Point, located on Fernandina Island, which is one of the most pristine and untouched islands in the Galapagos archipelago. Here, you will find some of the most bizarre animal species, products of natural selection. Among them is the flightless cormorant, which after thousands of years isolated here lost the ability to fly and turned its wings into fins. You will also be able to observe marine iguanas, Galapagos penguins, and Galapagos hawks. This is a unique opportunity to witness the natural beauty and diversity of the Galapagos Islands.

In the afternoon, you will visit Vicente Roca Point, located on the northwest coast of Isabela Island. This site is known for its stunning geological formations and unique wildlife. You will enter a dark cave below a spectacular arch, accompanied by the roaring echoes of the waves. The calmer waters inside are well-protected and are a great place for snorkeling amongst various species of sharks, penguins, seahorses and the giant mola-mola. You may also see blue-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, and fur seals along the shore.

This morning you will visit Puerto Egas, located on the western coast of Santiago Island. This site is historical, and a favorite for wildlife lovers in the Galapagos. It's even considered the best place in the archipelago to observe Galapagos fur seals. Your naturalist guide will lead you on a walk through the coastal trails, where you can observe a variety of species such as marine iguanas, Sally Lightfoot crabs, Galapagos hawks, and the elusive Galapagos fur seals. You can also enjoy a refreshing swim in the natural pools formed by the volcanic rocks.

In the afternoon, you will visit Rabida Island, known for its remarkable red beach. Upon landing, you will usually be greeted by a large bachelor colony of Galapagos sea lions. Your naturalist guide will lead you on a hike through the red sand beach, where you can observe the unique flora and fauna of the island, such as brown pelicans, Galapagos hawks, and Darwin's finches. You can also snorkel along the rocky cliffs and spot various species of fish, rays, and sea turtles.

Today is your last day in the Galapagos Islands, and you will start with a visit to Black Turtle Cove. After breakfast, you will board a dinghy and explore this peaceful lagoon, surrounded by mangrove forests. The calm waters make it a perfect place to observe sea turtles, rays, and sharks. Your naturalist guide will explain the importance of the mangrove ecosystem and its role in preserving the biodiversity of the islands.

After, you will disembark at Baltra airport, where you will say goodbye to the crew of your cruise ship before checking in for your flight back to the mainland.