3rd Week: The Galapagos Islands
Unforgettable Galápagos Adventures
Formed over 5 million years ago by volcanic eruptions, the Galapagos Islands are considered the ultimate living museum. A showcase of evolution, the Galapagos are home to the most beautiful and interesting of animals and served as the catalyst for Charles Darwin’s theory of natural selection. We will be guided by bilingual professional naturalists, experiencing the purest forms of untouched nature by hiking, swimming, and snorkeling throughout the islands. Without a doubt, the magic of the Galapagos Islands will truly make you think differently about the world.
Accomodations in the Galapagos Islands
Our regularly scheduled jet flight will take us from Quito to the Galapagos Islands. After our transfer, we arrive at our home-base in the Galapagos Islands, Hotel Ninfa. Located in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island, Hotel Ninfa offers us comfortable accommodation just blocks from the sea and minutes from the center of this charming and relaxing seaside village. While at the hotel, our participants will enjoy a refreshing pool surrounded by tropical gardens, free wifi in the lobby, air-conditioned rooms, and tasty family-style dinners in the hotel restaurant.
Excursions
Santa Cruz Island
Our first stop is the world-famous Charles Darwin Research Station, where we’ll learn about conservation efforts to protect endangered species and get up close with the iconic Galápagos giant tortoises. Then, it’s time to grab our paddles for a guided kayak tour through the Bay of Puerto Ayora, gliding past rocky cliffs, spotting sea turtles, and soaking in the island’s stunning scenery. We’ll hike through Los Gemelos, the twin volcanic craters formed by eruptions millions of years ago and explore the otherworldly lava tunnels beneath the island’s surface. Afterward, we’ll kick back on the pristine white sands of Tortuga Bay, where we can swim, relax, and soak up the sun in paradise.
Seymour Island & Bachas Beach
Welcome to a bird-lover’s dream! Seymour Island is home to some of the most famous wildlife in the Galápagos, including frigate birds with massive red throat pouches and the hilarious blue-footed boobies, whose one-footed dance moves are part of their unique courtship ritual. We’ll hike to Flamingo Pond, then cool off with a swim among rays, tropical fish, and crystal-clear turquoise waters at Bachas Beach, a pristine stretch of coastline that’s perfect for spotting wildlife and relaxing in the sun.
Bartoleme Island
Get ready to step into a postcard—Bartolomé Island is one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Galápagos! We’ll climb to the top of the island, where we’ll be rewarded with an unreal panoramic view of Pinnacle Rock, the Pacific Ocean, and five different Galápagos Islands. But the real magic happens when we jump into the water—we’ll snorkel alongside graceful sea turtles, playful sea lions, sleek Galápagos penguins, and a kaleidoscope of exotic fish. Sunbathing marine iguanas will be lounging on the beach, so watch your step—it’s their island, too!
Santa Fe Island
Santa Fe Island is the definition of paradise. Our visit begins with a beach landing on Barrington Bay, where we’re greeted by hundreds of sea lions basking in the sun. Keep an eye on the waves—these amazing creatures love surfing near the shore! We’ll hike through Santa Fe’s rugged terrain, home to the rare Santa Fe Land Iguana, and then grab our snorkel gear for an unforgettable swim through the island’s crystal-clear waters. Look out for schools of colorful fish, gentle sea turtles, and even baby sea lions playfully darting past us!
Please note: The islands we visit may be subject to changes due to Galápagos National Park regulations, ensuring the continued protection of this fragile and extraordinary ecosystem.
This final week is the perfect way to wrap up an unforgettable journey, offering adventure, discovery, and an up-close look at one of the most unique places on Earth. From swimming with sea lions to walking in Darwin’s footsteps, the Galápagos Islands will change the way you see the world forever!
