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BOOKING ENQUIRY

Itinerary C + D

Length 8 days

Departs on Monday from Baltra Island Airport
Ends on Monday at Baltra Island Airport

Visitor Sites
Click on each site for more information
  • Day 1 AM Baltra Island Airport Baltra Island Airport account_balance
    28%
    Baltra Island Airport
    Baltra Island Airport

    The first airport here was built by Americans during the 2nd World War - remnants of that military base can be easily observed.  The latest airport here touts itself as the world’s first “green” airport. It opened in December 2012.  The terminal consists of recycled steel tubes taken from oil drilling operations in the Amazon.  It spreads over 6,000 square meters and required an investment of just over $24 million. The new complex uses clean, renewable technologies such as solar energy, wind farms, and seawater desalination, among other environmental innovations.  It is kept cool(ish) simply by design - no air conditioning is required.

    Wildlife Sightings
    • check Land Iguana
    Site Rating 28%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    Baltra Island Airport

    Baltra Island Airport
    Overall Rating: 28%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    The first airport here was built by Americans during the 2nd World War - remnants of that military base can be easily observed.  The latest airport here touts itself as the world’s first “green” airport. It opened in December 2012.  The terminal consists of recycled steel tubes taken from oil drilling operations in the Amazon.  It spreads over 6,000 square meters and required an investment of just over $24 million. The new complex uses clean, renewable technologies such as solar energy, wind farms, and seawater desalination, among other environmental innovations.  It is kept cool(ish) simply by design - no air conditioning is required.

    Baltra Island Airport

    Baltra Island Airport
    Overall Rating: 28%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    The first airport here was built by Americans during the 2nd World War - remnants of that military base can be easily observed.  The latest airport here touts itself as the world’s first “green” airport. It opened in December 2012.  The terminal consists of recycled steel tubes taken from oil drilling operations in the Amazon.  It spreads over 6,000 square meters and required an investment of just over $24 million. The new complex uses clean, renewable technologies such as solar energy, wind farms, and seawater desalination, among other environmental innovations.  It is kept cool(ish) simply by design - no air conditioning is required.

  • Day 1 PM Bartolomé Island Bartolomé Island
    68%
    Bartolomé Island
    Bartolomé Island

    Bartolomé Island has two visitor sites that are usually combined into one visit.  The first is a swim and snorkel off a nice beach, around the iconic Pinnacle Rock; the underwater world there is really impressive. Snorkelers are in the water with the penguins, marine turtles white-tipped reef sharks, rays and other tropical fish.  The second site is accessible via a long staircase leading up to a spectacular view point from which you can see the manifestations of recent volcanic activity.  Landing: Dry.  Difficulty: Moderate

    Wildlife Sightings
    • check Galapagos penguin
    • check Sharks
    • check Rays
    • check Sea turtles
    Site Rating 68%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    Bartolomé Island

    Bartolomé Island
    Overall Rating: 68%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    Bartolomé Island has two visitor sites that are usually combined into one visit.  The first is a swim and snorkel off a nice beach, around the iconic Pinnacle Rock; the underwater world there is really impressive. Snorkelers are in the water with the penguins, marine turtles white-tipped reef sharks, rays and other tropical fish.  The second site is accessible via a long staircase leading up to a spectacular view point from which you can see the manifestations of recent volcanic activity.  Landing: Dry.  Difficulty: Moderate

    Bartolomé Island

    Bartolomé Island
    Overall Rating: 68%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    Bartolomé Island has two visitor sites that are usually combined into one visit.  The first is a swim and snorkel off a nice beach, around the iconic Pinnacle Rock; the underwater world there is really impressive. Snorkelers are in the water with the penguins, marine turtles white-tipped reef sharks, rays and other tropical fish.  The second site is accessible via a long staircase leading up to a spectacular view point from which you can see the manifestations of recent volcanic activity.  Landing: Dry.  Difficulty: Moderate

  • Day 2 AM South Plaza Island South Plaza Island
    78%
    South Plaza Island
    South Plaza Island

    Various sea birds can be spotted from the top of the sea cliffs.  Land iguanas sit patiently, waiting for cactus flowers to drop.  Marine iguanas and sea lions are also abundant.   South Plaza is also home to the beautiful succulent Sesuvium plant, which changes from bright green in the rainy season to red, orange, and purple during the dry season.  Landing:  Dry.  Difficulty: Moderate.

    Wildlife Sightings
    • check Hybrid land/marine iguana
    • check Red-billed tropicbirds
    • check Sea lions
    • check Land Iguana
    Site Rating 78%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    South Plaza Island

    South Plaza Island
    Overall Rating: 78%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    Various sea birds can be spotted from the top of the sea cliffs.  Land iguanas sit patiently, waiting for cactus flowers to drop.  Marine iguanas and sea lions are also abundant.   South Plaza is also home to the beautiful succulent Sesuvium plant, which changes from bright green in the rainy season to red, orange, and purple during the dry season.  Landing:  Dry.  Difficulty: Moderate.

    South Plaza Island

    South Plaza Island
    Overall Rating: 78%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    Various sea birds can be spotted from the top of the sea cliffs.  Land iguanas sit patiently, waiting for cactus flowers to drop.  Marine iguanas and sea lions are also abundant.   South Plaza is also home to the beautiful succulent Sesuvium plant, which changes from bright green in the rainy season to red, orange, and purple during the dry season.  Landing:  Dry.  Difficulty: Moderate.

  • Day 2 PM North Seymour Island North Seymour Island
    83%
    North Seymour Island
    North Seymour Island

    From the small dock, the trail leads along the coast — past an area where marine iguanas nest — and then loops into the palo santo forest by the nests of frigatebirds and boobies. The frigatebirds rely on the fishing success of the blue-footed boobies for their survival, stealing their catches.  Landing:  Dry.   Difficulty:  Easy

    Wildlife Sightings
    • check Nazca booby
    • check Land Iguana
    Site Rating 83%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    North Seymour Island

    North Seymour Island
    Overall Rating: 83%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    From the small dock, the trail leads along the coast — past an area where marine iguanas nest — and then loops into the palo santo forest by the nests of frigatebirds and boobies. The frigatebirds rely on the fishing success of the blue-footed boobies for their survival, stealing their catches.  Landing:  Dry.   Difficulty:  Easy

    North Seymour Island

    North Seymour Island
    Overall Rating: 83%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    From the small dock, the trail leads along the coast — past an area where marine iguanas nest — and then loops into the palo santo forest by the nests of frigatebirds and boobies. The frigatebirds rely on the fishing success of the blue-footed boobies for their survival, stealing their catches.  Landing:  Dry.   Difficulty:  Easy

  • Day 3 AM San Cristóbal Island, Punta Pitt San Cristóbal Island, Punta Pitt
    65%
    San Cristóbal Island, Punta Pitt
    San Cristóbal Island, Punta Pitt

    Disembarking on Punta Pitt, the easternmost point in the Galápagos, you’ll arrive on a mangrove-lined beach. After being greeted by a sea lion colony, you’ll discover the only place in Galápagos where all three types of boobies nest, alongside both types of frigatebirds. A steep, 2.5-mile trail takes visitors up a cliff and through a ravine where abundant birdlife can be found. Landing: Wet. Difficulty: Moderate/Difficult.

    Wildlife Sightings
    • check Nazca booby
    • check Sea lions
    • check Red-footed booby
    Site Rating 65%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    San Cristóbal Island, Punta Pitt

    San Cristóbal Island, Punta Pitt
    Overall Rating: 65%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    Disembarking on Punta Pitt, the easternmost point in the Galápagos, you’ll arrive on a mangrove-lined beach. After being greeted by a sea lion colony, you’ll discover the only place in Galápagos where all three types of boobies nest, alongside both types of frigatebirds. A steep, 2.5-mile trail takes visitors up a cliff and through a ravine where abundant birdlife can be found. Landing: Wet. Difficulty: Moderate/Difficult.

    San Cristóbal Island, Punta Pitt

    San Cristóbal Island, Punta Pitt
    Overall Rating: 65%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    Disembarking on Punta Pitt, the easternmost point in the Galápagos, you’ll arrive on a mangrove-lined beach. After being greeted by a sea lion colony, you’ll discover the only place in Galápagos where all three types of boobies nest, alongside both types of frigatebirds. A steep, 2.5-mile trail takes visitors up a cliff and through a ravine where abundant birdlife can be found. Landing: Wet. Difficulty: Moderate/Difficult.

  • Day 3 PM San Cristóbal Island, Cerro Brujo San Cristóbal Island, Cerro Brujo
    63%
    San Cristóbal Island, Cerro Brujo
    San Cristóbal Island, Cerro Brujo

    The beautiful white sand beach, clear waters, abundant wildlife and Kicker Rock on the horizon make this a pleasant landing spot. Frolicking sea lions may greet you as you come ashore and you may see turtles, rays, anemones, and sponge coral if you opt to snorkel or swim. Keep an eye out for shore birds, gulls, pelicans, boobies, finches and mockingbirds.  Landing: Wet. Difficulty: Easy.

    Wildlife Sightings
    • check Sea turtles
    • check Rays
    • check Sea lions
    Site Rating 63%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    San Cristóbal Island, Cerro Brujo

    San Cristóbal Island, Cerro Brujo
    Overall Rating: 63%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    The beautiful white sand beach, clear waters, abundant wildlife and Kicker Rock on the horizon make this a pleasant landing spot. Frolicking sea lions may greet you as you come ashore and you may see turtles, rays, anemones, and sponge coral if you opt to snorkel or swim. Keep an eye out for shore birds, gulls, pelicans, boobies, finches and mockingbirds.  Landing: Wet. Difficulty: Easy.

    San Cristóbal Island, Cerro Brujo

    San Cristóbal Island, Cerro Brujo
    Overall Rating: 63%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    The beautiful white sand beach, clear waters, abundant wildlife and Kicker Rock on the horizon make this a pleasant landing spot. Frolicking sea lions may greet you as you come ashore and you may see turtles, rays, anemones, and sponge coral if you opt to snorkel or swim. Keep an eye out for shore birds, gulls, pelicans, boobies, finches and mockingbirds.  Landing: Wet. Difficulty: Easy.

  • Day 4 AM San Cristóbal Island, Cerro Colorado San Cristóbal Island, Cerro Colorado
    61%
    San Cristóbal Island, Cerro Colorado
    San Cristóbal Island, Cerro Colorado

    Also known as the Galapaguera, the hike from the beach is long, about 5 Km (3 miles) one-way and may be hot.  It is important to note that the walk takes a minimum 3 1/2 hours roundtrip.  A great site for those wanting to stretch their legs.  Do bring water.  The hike takes you to an area renown for the numerous giant tortoises easily spotted in the wild.  There are goats in the interior and it is common to find their droppings along the way.   Landing:  Wet   Difficulty:  Difficult

    Wildlife Sightings
    • check Giant tortoise in the wild
    Site Rating 61%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    San Cristóbal Island, Cerro Colorado

    San Cristóbal Island, Cerro Colorado
    Overall Rating: 61%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    Also known as the Galapaguera, the hike from the beach is long, about 5 Km (3 miles) one-way and may be hot.  It is important to note that the walk takes a minimum 3 1/2 hours roundtrip.  A great site for those wanting to stretch their legs.  Do bring water.  The hike takes you to an area renown for the numerous giant tortoises easily spotted in the wild.  There are goats in the interior and it is common to find their droppings along the way.   Landing:  Wet   Difficulty:  Difficult

    San Cristóbal Island, Cerro Colorado

    San Cristóbal Island, Cerro Colorado
    Overall Rating: 61%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    Also known as the Galapaguera, the hike from the beach is long, about 5 Km (3 miles) one-way and may be hot.  It is important to note that the walk takes a minimum 3 1/2 hours roundtrip.  A great site for those wanting to stretch their legs.  Do bring water.  The hike takes you to an area renown for the numerous giant tortoises easily spotted in the wild.  There are goats in the interior and it is common to find their droppings along the way.   Landing:  Wet   Difficulty:  Difficult

  • Day 4 PM San Cristóbal Island, Interpretation Centre San Cristóbal Island, Interpretation Centre account_balance
    35%
    San Cristóbal Island, Interpretation Centre
    San Cristóbal Island, Interpretation Centre

    The center, which is just outside of the town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, was opened in 1998 and features exhibits showcasing the natural and human history of the Galápagos and the ongoing efforts to preserve and protect the islands. Landing: None. Difficulty: Easy

    Site Rating 35%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    San Cristóbal Island, Interpretation Centre

    San Cristóbal Island, Interpretation Centre
    Overall Rating: 35%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    The center, which is just outside of the town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, was opened in 1998 and features exhibits showcasing the natural and human history of the Galápagos and the ongoing efforts to preserve and protect the islands. Landing: None. Difficulty: Easy

    San Cristóbal Island, Interpretation Centre

    San Cristóbal Island, Interpretation Centre
    Overall Rating: 35%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    The center, which is just outside of the town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, was opened in 1998 and features exhibits showcasing the natural and human history of the Galápagos and the ongoing efforts to preserve and protect the islands. Landing: None. Difficulty: Easy

  • Day 5 AM Española Island, Gardner Bay Española Island, Gardner Bay
    79%
    Española Island, Gardner Bay
    Española Island, Gardner Bay

    A wonderful white sand beach with a myriad of sea lions, perfect for relaxing. Famous for the Española mockingbirds, which like to pick at your laces.  Great beach relaxation and swimming.

    Wildlife Sightings
    • check Mockingbirds
    • check Sea lions
    Site Rating 79%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    Española Island, Gardner Bay

    Española Island, Gardner Bay
    Overall Rating: 79%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    A wonderful white sand beach with a myriad of sea lions, perfect for relaxing. Famous for the Española mockingbirds, which like to pick at your laces.  Great beach relaxation and swimming.

    Española Island, Gardner Bay

    Española Island, Gardner Bay
    Overall Rating: 79%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    A wonderful white sand beach with a myriad of sea lions, perfect for relaxing. Famous for the Española mockingbirds, which like to pick at your laces.  Great beach relaxation and swimming.

  • Day 5 PM Española Island, Punta Suarez Española Island, Punta Suarez
    90%
    Española Island, Punta Suarez
    Española Island, Punta Suarez

    A wet landing onto a beach with Sea Lions and colourful Marine Iguanas leads on to a 2km trail through Masked and Blue-Footed Booby colonies (be careful not to step on them!) to some magnificent cliffs with a blow-hole. Beyond here is the Galapagos' only Waved Albatross colony (Apr-Dec) - watch their somewhat clumsy attempts to take-off and land. Other animals including the Large cactus finch and Galapagos Hawk may also be seen.

    Wildlife Sightings
    • check Galapagos hawk
    • check Giant opuntia cactus forest
    • check Mockingbirds
    • check Nazca booby
    • check Red-billed tropicbirds
    • check Sea lions
    • check Waved albatross
    Site Rating 90%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    Española Island, Punta Suarez

    Española Island, Punta Suarez
    Overall Rating: 90%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    A wet landing onto a beach with Sea Lions and colourful Marine Iguanas leads on to a 2km trail through Masked and Blue-Footed Booby colonies (be careful not to step on them!) to some magnificent cliffs with a blow-hole. Beyond here is the Galapagos' only Waved Albatross colony (Apr-Dec) - watch their somewhat clumsy attempts to take-off and land. Other animals including the Large cactus finch and Galapagos Hawk may also be seen.

    Española Island, Punta Suarez

    Española Island, Punta Suarez
    Overall Rating: 90%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    A wet landing onto a beach with Sea Lions and colourful Marine Iguanas leads on to a 2km trail through Masked and Blue-Footed Booby colonies (be careful not to step on them!) to some magnificent cliffs with a blow-hole. Beyond here is the Galapagos' only Waved Albatross colony (Apr-Dec) - watch their somewhat clumsy attempts to take-off and land. Other animals including the Large cactus finch and Galapagos Hawk may also be seen.

  • Day 6 AM Floreana Island, Post Office Bay Floreana Island, Post Office Bay account_balance
    37%
    Floreana Island, Post Office Bay
    Floreana Island, Post Office Bay

    In the eighteenth century, a group of whalers set up a wooden barrel to collect mail at this site, now known as Post Office Bay. A trail behind the barrel leads through palo santo and palo verde trees to a cave, which is actually a lava tube running down to the sea. Landing: Wet. Difficulty: Easy.

    Site Rating 37%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    Floreana Island, Post Office Bay

    Floreana Island, Post Office Bay
    Overall Rating: 37%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    In the eighteenth century, a group of whalers set up a wooden barrel to collect mail at this site, now known as Post Office Bay. A trail behind the barrel leads through palo santo and palo verde trees to a cave, which is actually a lava tube running down to the sea. Landing: Wet. Difficulty: Easy.

    Floreana Island, Post Office Bay

    Floreana Island, Post Office Bay
    Overall Rating: 37%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    In the eighteenth century, a group of whalers set up a wooden barrel to collect mail at this site, now known as Post Office Bay. A trail behind the barrel leads through palo santo and palo verde trees to a cave, which is actually a lava tube running down to the sea. Landing: Wet. Difficulty: Easy.

  • Day 6 PM Floreana Island, Punta Cormorant - Devil`s Crown Floreana Island, Punta Cormorant - Devil`s Crown
    60%
    Floreana Island, Punta Cormorant - Devil`s Crown
    Floreana Island, Punta Cormorant - Devil`s Crown

    Between two tuff cones, the Punta Cormorant landing is on a beach with green, olivine sand. Trails allow you to explore a brackish lagoon where greater flamingoes wade through the water, sifting shrimp with their curved bills. Stingrays can be seen in the shallows. You may also see pintail ducks, stilts, large-billed flycatchers, and several species of finches. Landing: Wet. Difficulty: Easy.

    Wildlife Sightings
    • check Flamingo
    • check Rays
    Site Rating 60%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    Floreana Island, Punta Cormorant - Devil`s Crown

    Floreana Island, Punta Cormorant - Devil`s Crown
    Overall Rating: 60%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    Between two tuff cones, the Punta Cormorant landing is on a beach with green, olivine sand. Trails allow you to explore a brackish lagoon where greater flamingoes wade through the water, sifting shrimp with their curved bills. Stingrays can be seen in the shallows. You may also see pintail ducks, stilts, large-billed flycatchers, and several species of finches. Landing: Wet. Difficulty: Easy.

    Floreana Island, Punta Cormorant - Devil`s Crown

    Floreana Island, Punta Cormorant - Devil`s Crown
    Overall Rating: 60%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    Between two tuff cones, the Punta Cormorant landing is on a beach with green, olivine sand. Trails allow you to explore a brackish lagoon where greater flamingoes wade through the water, sifting shrimp with their curved bills. Stingrays can be seen in the shallows. You may also see pintail ducks, stilts, large-billed flycatchers, and several species of finches. Landing: Wet. Difficulty: Easy.

  • Day 7 AM Santa Cruz Island, Darwin Station - Tortoise Centre Santa Cruz Island, Darwin Station - Tortoise Centre account_balance
    53%
    Santa Cruz Island, Darwin Station - Tortoise Centre
    Santa Cruz Island, Darwin Station - Tortoise Centre

    The Station is about a ten-minute walk from the center of Puerto Ayora.  It has its own staff scientists but also hosts visiting scientists from around the world.  The archipelago's first tortoise breeding centre is next door, along with land iguana pens.   An open air rest area serves cold drinks and snacks.  Visit the station's new "mini-museum"  and buy a t-shirt to support the station's work.   Landing: No Landing. Difficulty: Easy.

    Wildlife Sightings
    • check Mockingbirds
    Site Rating 53%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    Santa Cruz Island, Darwin Station - Tortoise Centre

    Santa Cruz Island, Darwin Station - Tortoise Centre
    Overall Rating: 53%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    The Station is about a ten-minute walk from the center of Puerto Ayora.  It has its own staff scientists but also hosts visiting scientists from around the world.  The archipelago's first tortoise breeding centre is next door, along with land iguana pens.   An open air rest area serves cold drinks and snacks.  Visit the station's new "mini-museum"  and buy a t-shirt to support the station's work.   Landing: No Landing. Difficulty: Easy.

    Santa Cruz Island, Darwin Station - Tortoise Centre

    Santa Cruz Island, Darwin Station - Tortoise Centre
    Overall Rating: 53%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    The Station is about a ten-minute walk from the center of Puerto Ayora.  It has its own staff scientists but also hosts visiting scientists from around the world.  The archipelago's first tortoise breeding centre is next door, along with land iguana pens.   An open air rest area serves cold drinks and snacks.  Visit the station's new "mini-museum"  and buy a t-shirt to support the station's work.   Landing: No Landing. Difficulty: Easy.

  • Day 7 AM Santa Cruz Island, Los Gemelos - Highlands Santa Cruz Island, Los Gemelos - Highlands
    62%
    Santa Cruz Island, Los Gemelos - Highlands
    Santa Cruz Island, Los Gemelos - Highlands

    Los Gemelos (The Twins) are a pair of large pit craters on the road from Puerto Ayora to Baltra. They were created when the surface material covering empty magma chambers collapsed. You can walk along the rim of the craters and enjoy breathtaking views. The trail around the larger crater passes through a Scalesia forest and is good place to see a variety of bird species. Landing: None. Difficulty: Moderate.

    Wildlife Sightings
    • check Scalesia forest
    • check Vermillion flycatcher
    Site Rating 62%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    Santa Cruz Island, Los Gemelos - Highlands

    Santa Cruz Island, Los Gemelos - Highlands
    Overall Rating: 62%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    Los Gemelos (The Twins) are a pair of large pit craters on the road from Puerto Ayora to Baltra. They were created when the surface material covering empty magma chambers collapsed. You can walk along the rim of the craters and enjoy breathtaking views. The trail around the larger crater passes through a Scalesia forest and is good place to see a variety of bird species. Landing: None. Difficulty: Moderate.

    Santa Cruz Island, Los Gemelos - Highlands

    Santa Cruz Island, Los Gemelos - Highlands
    Overall Rating: 62%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    Los Gemelos (The Twins) are a pair of large pit craters on the road from Puerto Ayora to Baltra. They were created when the surface material covering empty magma chambers collapsed. You can walk along the rim of the craters and enjoy breathtaking views. The trail around the larger crater passes through a Scalesia forest and is good place to see a variety of bird species. Landing: None. Difficulty: Moderate.

  • Day 7 PM Santa Cruz Island, El Eden Islet Santa Cruz Island, El Eden Islet
    44%
    Santa Cruz Island, El Eden Islet
    Santa Cruz Island, El Eden Islet

    A highly eroded volcanic tuff cone just off the coast of Santa Cruz island - typically visited via panga ride.  It is common to spot blue footed boobies diving for prey, and sea turtles, rays and sharks in the waters below, near red-mangrove shores.   Landing:  Panga ride.   Difficulty:  Easy

    Wildlife Sightings
    • check Rays
    • check Sharks
    • check Sea turtles
    Site Rating 44%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    Santa Cruz Island, El Eden Islet

    Santa Cruz Island, El Eden Islet
    Overall Rating: 44%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    A highly eroded volcanic tuff cone just off the coast of Santa Cruz island - typically visited via panga ride.  It is common to spot blue footed boobies diving for prey, and sea turtles, rays and sharks in the waters below, near red-mangrove shores.   Landing:  Panga ride.   Difficulty:  Easy

    Santa Cruz Island, El Eden Islet

    Santa Cruz Island, El Eden Islet
    Overall Rating: 44%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    A highly eroded volcanic tuff cone just off the coast of Santa Cruz island - typically visited via panga ride.  It is common to spot blue footed boobies diving for prey, and sea turtles, rays and sharks in the waters below, near red-mangrove shores.   Landing:  Panga ride.   Difficulty:  Easy

  • Day 8 AM Santa Cruz Island, Punta Carrión Santa Cruz Island, Punta Carrión
    56%
    Santa Cruz Island, Punta Carrión
    Santa Cruz Island, Punta Carrión

    This is a great spot to snorkel and swim among rays, sharks and hundreds of colorful tropical fish.  No land excursion.   Landing:  N/A   Difficulty:  Easy

    Wildlife Sightings
    • check Rays
    • check Sharks
    Site Rating 56%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    Santa Cruz Island, Punta Carrión

    Santa Cruz Island, Punta Carrión
    Overall Rating: 56%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    This is a great spot to snorkel and swim among rays, sharks and hundreds of colorful tropical fish.  No land excursion.   Landing:  N/A   Difficulty:  Easy

    Santa Cruz Island, Punta Carrión

    Santa Cruz Island, Punta Carrión
    Overall Rating: 56%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    This is a great spot to snorkel and swim among rays, sharks and hundreds of colorful tropical fish.  No land excursion.   Landing:  N/A   Difficulty:  Easy

  • Day 8 AM Baltra Island Airport Baltra Island Airport account_balance
    28%
    Baltra Island Airport
    Baltra Island Airport

    The first airport here was built by Americans during the 2nd World War - remnants of that military base can be easily observed.  The latest airport here touts itself as the world’s first “green” airport. It opened in December 2012.  The terminal consists of recycled steel tubes taken from oil drilling operations in the Amazon.  It spreads over 6,000 square meters and required an investment of just over $24 million. The new complex uses clean, renewable technologies such as solar energy, wind farms, and seawater desalination, among other environmental innovations.  It is kept cool(ish) simply by design - no air conditioning is required.

    Wildlife Sightings
    • check Land Iguana
    Site Rating 28%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    Baltra Island Airport

    Baltra Island Airport
    Overall Rating: 28%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    The first airport here was built by Americans during the 2nd World War - remnants of that military base can be easily observed.  The latest airport here touts itself as the world’s first “green” airport. It opened in December 2012.  The terminal consists of recycled steel tubes taken from oil drilling operations in the Amazon.  It spreads over 6,000 square meters and required an investment of just over $24 million. The new complex uses clean, renewable technologies such as solar energy, wind farms, and seawater desalination, among other environmental innovations.  It is kept cool(ish) simply by design - no air conditioning is required.

    Baltra Island Airport

    Baltra Island Airport
    Overall Rating: 28%
    public Iconic Species
    pets Biodiversity
    photo Striking vistas
    beach_access Beach quailty
    pool Snorkeling quality

    The first airport here was built by Americans during the 2nd World War - remnants of that military base can be easily observed.  The latest airport here touts itself as the world’s first “green” airport. It opened in December 2012.  The terminal consists of recycled steel tubes taken from oil drilling operations in the Amazon.  It spreads over 6,000 square meters and required an investment of just over $24 million. The new complex uses clean, renewable technologies such as solar energy, wind farms, and seawater desalination, among other environmental innovations.  It is kept cool(ish) simply by design - no air conditioning is required.

account_balance Is of cultural or historical significance

Itinerary Rating
Combined score of all sites visited
Rating: 63%
public Iconic species
pets Biodiversity
photo Striking vistas
beach_access Beach quality
pool Snorkeling quality

Wildlife Sightings
  • check Flamingo
  • check Galapagos hawk
  • check Galapagos penguin
  • check Giant opuntia cactus forest
  • check Giant tortoise in the wild
  • check Hybrid land/marine iguana
  • check Land Iguana
  • check Mockingbirds
  • check Nazca booby
  • check Rays
  • check Red-billed tropicbirds
  • check Red-footed booby
  • check Scalesia forest
  • check Sea lions
  • check Sea turtles
  • check Sharks
  • check Vermillion flycatcher
  • check Waved albatross