Your Travel Experience with Galapagos PRO
Day 1
Arrival on Baltra Island
You will arrive at Baltra airport in the morning where you will be met by the crew. Your guide will then escort you to the ship and you will be informed about the coming days and can settle into your cabins.
Highlands, Santa Cruz Island
Afternoon: As the only island that makes all vegetation zones accessible to visitors, it is a great place for a little excursion into the highlands. Already from the beach you are greeted by magnificent flora and fauna that follows you up to the highest point of the island. The bus journey takes you along the island's agriculture and smoothly transitions into the green, mist-covered forests. You will experience a stark contrast here to the other islands, which have less altitude and more aridity. Together with your guide, visit various places here in the highlands, such as the giant tortoise reserve and the famous lava tubes. Look forward to a breathtaking landscape and a short walk with unforgettable phenomena.
Day 2
Chinese Hat Islet
Morning: The small island gets its name from its shape because when you approach the island from the north, it looks like a traditional Chinese hat. The island is close to Santiago Island and the sea between the islands is well protected, allowing visitors to look deep into the blue water. On the island, there is the possibility to walk along a short path along the western coast and see the impressive landscape. There are volcanic rocks and residues of lava that once flowed here. The atmosphere and rocks of the island are reminiscent of what the Galapagos Islands once were. Sea lions and Galapagos penguins bask on the island's shores or seek refuge from the sun and cool off in the shade. In the island's skies, you might see a Galapagos hawk or two circling overheads. One of the main reasons to visit this island, however, is the sea that surrounds it. It is a fantastic place to snorkel and spot marine life such as sharks, rays, and a variety of tropical fish. As not all boats have permission to go to this island, it is well worth it.
Sullivan Bay, Santiago Island
Afternoon: To the east of Santiago Island, you will reach the white coral beach of Sullivan Bay. Although this beach deserves your full attention, the day will surprise you with another highlight: Santiago's cooled lava blanket. Almost 100 years ago, lava flows covered the island here, leaving behind diverse ground shapes: braided and thread-like lava fields alternate with sharp-edged, jagged formations. Feel the warm stones of the black, unreal lava landscape under your hands and transport yourself back to a time when volcanoes raged here, ultimately creating a paradise.
Day 3
North Seymour Island
Morning: The small island of North Seymour is one of the most diverse islands in the Galapagos archipelago. It is only about two square kilometers in size and is above all known for the intensive courtship rituals of many magnificent frigatebirds, taking place here during mating season. The island is also home to large colonies of land iguanas, marine iguanas, and sea lions. The characteristic bush landscape features diverse species of animals amongst the aromatic endemic balsa trees.
Santa Fe Island
Afternoon: Upon arrival at the white sand beach you will be greeted by a large colony of sea lions. A trail leads you from the beach into a forest of prickly pears and Palo Santo trees. It is not rare to spot Galapagos hawks and even owls in the salt bushes. Even harmless snakes and the endemic rice rat can be discovered with a little luck while exploring the island. Arguably the most special, however, is the Santa Fé iguana. This species differs from its peers due to its significantly lighter color and distinct dorsal spines. Snorkeling and swimming on the beach, kayaking or a tour with the glass bottom boat make this trip unforgettable.
Please Note: The Galapagos National Park has placed a temporary ban on swimming, snorkeling or diving in the waters around Santa Fé.
Day 4
Punta Pitt, San Cristóbal Island
Afternoon: Punta Pitt is considered one of the most beautiful and impressive sites of the whole archipelago of Galapagos. The erosion of the high cliffs and the almost constantly foggy morning give Punta Pitt an eerie atmosphere. The point's location has also made it a favourite nesting site for many sea birds. Here you can observe the three different species of boobies and great frigate birds nesting in the same area. The walking trail covers 1400m and takes roughly 2 hours, including an olivine beach approximately 90 meters long, and a trail that ascends to the top of a volcanic tuff hill passing through several natural viewpoints. This is the only site in the Galapagos Islands, where you can watch the three species of boobies and 2 species of frigates nesting in the same area. There are also plenty of curious sea lions in the area.
Cerro Brujo, San Cristobal
Morning: Cerro Brujo is a volcanic cone that looks over a beautiful white sandy beach which has plenty of sea lions, pelicans, blue-footed boobies, and marine iguanas. From atop the hill you also have a great view over to Leon Dormido. After the hike, cool off with a dip in the perfect aquamarine waters.
Day 5
Tijeretas Hill, San Cristóbal Island
Morning: Enjoy a unique hike up to the "Cerro Tijeretas" - loosely translated: Frigate Bird Rock. As the name suggests, this visitor spot is home to countless frigate birds, which also choose this place as a nesting site. Marvel at the "pirates of the air" with their red throat pouches and black plumage. Did you know that they cannot dive into the water and are therefore forced to steal the prey from other seabirds? Besides this natural spectacle, however, you will also be treated to a beautiful view of the rooftops of the provincial capital Puerto Baquerizo Moreno and the island's bright beaches contrasting with the volcanic rock. At the foot of the Frigate Bird Rock is a small bay where you can go snorkelling. If you are out on your own, take a towel, swimming, and snorkelling gear.
Conclude in San Cristóbal
The cruise will conclude in the harbor of San Cristóbal. From there, transfer to the airport in time for your return flight to the mainland, or continue with your planned route through the Galapagos.