Winged Wonders Journey 6 Day Cruise C | Sirius

Today, your adventure commences with a flight to the Galapagos Islands. Upon arrival, our dedicated crew will warmly welcome you at the airport and transfer you to the awaiting cruise ship.

In the afternoon, explore Black Turtle Cove, named after the plentiful green sea turtles, locally referred to as "Tortugas Negras." Enjoy a delightful boat tour aboard the dinghies, embarking on a tranquil exploration of shallow channels, small coves, and the picturesque mangrove forests that envelop the area.

This morning, explore Rabida Island, renowned for its distinctive reddish lava rocks enriched with iron, giving it a unique appearance in the Galapagos. The beach, characterized by its unusual red hue, is home to a small sea lion colony. If fortunate, you may stumble upon a petite saltwater lagoon inhabited by ducks, stilts, and flamingoes.

The trail leads inland, providing stunning views of the beach and lagoon. Look out for Darwin finches, flycatchers, and mockingbirds. Along the coastal cliffs, observe Nazca and blue-footed boobies, brown noddies, herons, and two species of sea lions: the Galapagos and fur seals. Additionally, seize the opportunity for a snorkeling adventure from the beach, exploring a protected rocky area teeming with fish, sea lions, and reef sharks. The vertical walls serve as a natural canvas showcasing an impressive variety of small invertebrates.

Chinese Hat, named for its perfectly symmetrical volcanic cone shape, stands as a small islet separated from Santiago by a narrow channel, creating one of the most picturesque bays in the Galapagos. The striking contrast of the blue-turquoise water, coral sand beaches, and dark lava rocks infuses a true tropical charm into the surroundings, enhancing the breathtaking sight of penguins leisurely resting on the rocks. Follow the trail along the shore, guiding you through a charming sea lion colony.

This morning, explore Seymour Island, a haven for bird enthusiasts where vast colonies of magnificent and great frigatebirds proudly display their striking red gular pouches to attract mates. Blue-footed boobies find their nesting grounds on the ground, engaging in their renowned courtship dance in open areas. Meanwhile, swallow-tailed gulls frequently perch on the cliff edges. Inland, land iguanas, whose numbers have been successfully restored through a conservation program, are a common sight. Along the rocky shores by the sea, their marine counterparts bask, not far from the playful sea lions often seen body surfing in the waves.

In the afternoon, explore Mosquera Islet, primarily a barren sandbar featuring rocky areas and scattered salt-resistant plants. This location provides an incredible opportunity to observe playful sea lion pups surfing the waves and frolicking in the tide pools. As you stroll along the beach, be on the lookout for the endemic lava gulls, frequently spotted flying overhead in search of food.

Strolling through Sullivan Bay unveils an extraordinary exploration into the volcanic roots of the Galapagos Islands. Your hike traverses a pristine Pahoehoe lava flow, offering abundant opportunities to marvel at the intricate textures of this unique lava formation. Although the landscape may initially seem barren and devoid of life, a closer examination reveals the tenacity of pioneer plants, the quick movements of lava lizards, and the presence of small birds. Along the shoreline, the lively presence of penguins, pelicans, and oystercatchers introduces a vibrant contrast to the otherwise stark environment.

Bartolome Island stands out as one of the most iconic destinations in the Galapagos, celebrated for its easily accessible penguin population and the stunning Pinnacle Rock. The beach adjacent to the rock is adorned with peach-colored sand, enhancing the surreal beauty of the surroundings. Embarking on a hike to the island's summit promises panoramic views of lunar-like landscapes punctuated by volcanic cones, a myriad of islands, Sullivan Bay, and, naturally, the towering presence of Pinnacle Rock.

Embark on a exploration of Marchena, a secluded island in the Galapagos archipelago known for its unique volcanic landscapes. This less-visited destination offers a serene environment where visitors can observe diverse flora and fauna in their natural habitats. The itinerary includes a thoughtful exploration of the island's shores, providing an opportunity to appreciate the subtle beauty and inherent tranquility of Marchena. Join us for a subdued and contemplative experience, gaining insight into the untouched aspects of the Galapagos ecosystem.

Nestled on the outskirts of Puerto Baquerizo, the Interpretation Center stands as a comprehensive repository of the human history woven into the fabric of the Galapagos Islands. Its exhibitions meticulously trace the narratives of early Spanish explorers to the contemporary era, spotlighting influential figures like Charles Darwin. Through vivid displays, the center vividly portrays the myriad challenges and perils confronted by the initial settlers as they grappled with survival in the rugged Galapagos environment.

After your visit to the Interpretation Center, you will be transferred to the airport for your return flight to continental Ecuador, marking the conclusion of your Galapagos journey.