Western Galapagos Islands Cruise 6 Days | EcoGalaxy

Take a morning flight from either Quito/Guayaquil to the Galapagos. At the airport you will be met by our representative who will transfer you to your ship where you will be introduced to your crew and have a welcome lunch.

In the afternoon you will be transferred to the Charles Darwin research Station. You will take a private bus to the entrance of the breeding center where you will see tortoises and land iguanas in captivity. This center is the main breeding site on the islands. Animals that were in danger of extinction on various islands are maintained here in captivity. Thanks to the dedicated work of several institutions, some species are being saved. This is where Lonesome George lived, the famous last survivor of the species of giant tortoise found on Pinta Island.

We will be visiting Moreno Point this morning, where you can enjoy a relaxing hike through the rough terrain while taking in the distinctive flora and fauna of the area. Along the way, keep an eye out for the blue-footed boobies and Galápagos penguins as they carry out their daily activities, and marvel at the playful antics of the sea lions in the nearby tide pools. As you explore this unique environment, your expert guide will provide insights on the island's history and geology, making your visit both an educational and memorable experience.

In the afternoon you will arrive at Elizabeth Bay. This is one of the island’s breeding sites for penguins. Located along the west coast of Isabela, Elizabeth Point is a marine visitor site. Visit Red Mangrove Cove: Brown pelicans, flightless cormorants, spotted eagle rays, golden rays and sea lions are often seen.

Urbina Bay, offers a range of exciting activities, from exploring the diverse marine life while snorkeling or scuba diving to hiking through the volcanic terrain and observing the iconic Galapagos giant tortoises in their natural habitat. The bay is also home to an abundance of land and marine iguanas, sea lions, and a variety of bird species, providing ample opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.

Tagus Cove is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Galápagos. This historic site on Isabela Island has been used as an anchorage for over 300 years, and is surrounded by breathtaking volcanic formations. Take a hike up to the ridge for a panoramic view of the cove and its picturesque surroundings. Along the way, you'll see fascinating geological formations, including lava fields and volcanic tuff cones. Keep an eye out for the unique flora and fauna of the area, including the Galápagos hawk and Darwin's finches.

Espinoza Point, famous for the large colonies of marine iguanas and the home of the flightless cormorant, the Galapagos penguin, snakes, and more. From Espinoza Point, we can admire the beauty of Fernandina Island and its volcano, which last erupted in May of 2005. Fernandina is the only island that doesn’t have mammals, and the open areas are extremely fragile. January to June is the nesting period of the marine iguana, and as such we take great care while walking here.

In the afternoon you will make your way to Vicente Roca Point. made up by two separate coves, this site is a large bay with spectacular sea life. Keep an eye out for seahorses, sea turtles, and the strange, yet fascinating, Mola-mola

In the morning you will arrive at Egas Port. Here we find a beautiful black sand beach; to the south of the beach is Pan de Azucar Volcano, whose volcanic deposits have contributed to the formation of the black sand beach. The crater of this volcano contains a saltwater lake that dries up during hot weather. Between 1928 and 1930, explorations to develop a salt mine were carried out, but it was decided that a mine was not feasible.

In the afternoon you will arrive at Rabida Island. The visitor site, located on the east coast of Rabida Island, consists of a red sand beach, a coastal lagoon behind the beach, and a loop trail approximately 1.1 km in length.  The red color of the rocks and sand on the beach is due to the interaction of the very porous volcanic material with environmental factors. Rain, saltwater and the sea breeze, act as oxidizing agents, creating the red color. The scenery, arid zone vegetation and the presence of native and endemic species add to the beauty of this island.

Today you will visit Black Turtle Cove. which is situated in the northern region of Santa Cruz. This bay is surrounded by mangroves and is accessible only by dinghy. The shallow cove is a safe refuge for marine life. Black-tip reef sharks, marine turtles, and a variety of rays are often spotted here.

After this activity you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight from the Galapagos.