Landing in the bustling Ecuatorian capital little foretells the calm and otherworldly charm of nature that awaits you. From Quito you fly to Guayaquil and from there to Baltra, in the isles proper. You are welcomed and hop on a panga —a dinghy— that takes you to Grace Kelly’s yacht and your home for the next week. Set sail to a chorus of blue-footed boobies and other bird species unique the the Galapagos.
Begin the day in the island of Santa Fe, whose covered coves will bring you close to sea lions and the largest land iguanas in The Encantadas. Because these creatures evolved without predators, they are not naturally afraid of humans and allow visitors to get rather close. As you kayak along Santa Fe’s northern shore, you arrive at a system of sea caves, a ride ideal for the adventurous. Also sail to South Plaza Island, where the lush and unique flora will fuel your botanical dreams for years to come.
Tower Island is a shield volcano that hides Darwin’s Bay. Explore this breathtaking landscape as you make your way along Prince Phillip’s Steps and climb the ridge of the caldera to obtain some of the best views this and that side of the Equator.
Punta Espinoza in Fernandina harbours one of the Galapagos’ largest colonies of marine iguanas, which makes for rather peculiar snorkelling. In the afternoon, head to Urbina Bay where you will find some of the Isles’ famous giant tortoises. As the day begins to wane, return to your yacht and sail to Bolivar Channel and witness a glorious sunset as whales and dolphins break through the surface of the sea.
In the morning, visit excellent snorkelling sites. In Tagus Cove, you will experience an underwater pasture, often visited by the Galapagos penguins and the very special, flightless cormorant. End the day in Punta Albemarle and meet a colony of sea lions.
Starting in Espumilla Beach, you will see some of the richest environments for the feathered inhabitants in the whole of the Galapagos. See hundreds of pink flamingoes as you make your way to James Bay.
In Santa Cruz, one of the largest isles, visit the research station and interact up-close with the giant tortoises. Head towards the highlands where you will see some of these charismatic creatures in the wild.
After a relaxed morning, fly back to the mainland where you can catch your flight back home or continue travelling in Ecuador. Alternatively, you could yield to the magic of the Encantadas, the Enchanted Isles, and stay ashore in a unique eco-lodge.
Provide us with a few starting details about your travel plans, and one of our specialists will be in touch to give you suggestions and ideas.
