- 7 Nights Accommodation on the MS Santa Cruz II
- 2 Nights at a hotel in Quito before the expedition cruise
- Flights in economy class between Quito and Baltra, including all taxes
- Transfer from the hotel to the airport in Quito
- Transfers between the airport and the ship in Baltra
- Excursions and Activities As Per Itinerary
- Galápagos Islands National Park admission fee
- Transit control card for the Galápagos Islands
- Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner on board the ship
- House wine, beer and spirits (excluding premium alcoholic drinks)
- All day coffee, tea and soft drinks
- A complimentary water bottle to refill on board and take home
- A backpack or another piece of HX kit
- Professional photos from your trip taken by an onboard photographer
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Gratuities included
- Escorted and guided landings with small panga boats
- In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by experts on the Expedition Team
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Itinerary:
Wednesday, November 4 – Arrive in Quito
Welcome to Quito, Ecuador’s vibrant capital nestled in the lush Andean foothills. At 9,350 feet above sea level, Quito is the second-highest capital in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the city’s well-preserved Old Town, with its charming cobblestone streets, colorful plazas, and magnificent colonial-era churches. Settle into your hotel and prepare for the adventures ahead.
Thursday, November 5 – Discover Quito’s Historic Treasures
Today, enjoy a guided tour of Quito’s enchanting Old Town, one of South America’s largest and best-preserved colonial quarters. Wander through its cobblestone streets, marvel at its stunning architecture, and sample exquisite chocolate made from Ecuadorian cacao. Later, travel to the “Middle of the World City” to visit the iconic Equator monument, where you can stand with one foot in each hemisphere. Return to Quito for a relaxing evening. (B, D)
Friday, November 6 – Begin Your Galápagos Adventure
After breakfast, a short flight will take you to Baltra Island, the gateway to the Galápagos. Board the expedition ship MS Santa Cruz II and prepare for your first glimpse of the islands’ incredible wildlife. Visit Mosquera Islet, home to one of the largest sea lion colonies in the archipelago. Stroll across sandy dunes and keep an eye out for Blue-footed Boobies and Sally Lightfoot crabs as you learn about the unique ecosystems of the region. (B, L, D)
Saturday, November 7 – San Cristóbal’s Giant Tortoises
Today, visit the Cerro Colorado Tortoise Reserve, a sanctuary dedicated to the conservation of the iconic giant tortoise. Observe these gentle giants in a habitat that mirrors their natural environment. Depending on the season, explore either the coral beaches of Cerro Brujo or the cliffs of Punta Pitt, the only location in the Galápagos where you might see all three species of boobies. Choose from activities like nature walks, snorkeling, or kayaking in crystal-clear waters. (B, L, D)
Sunday, November 8 – Santa Fe & South Plaza Islands
Discover Santa Fe Island, home to the endemic Barrington land iguana and playful sea lions. Enjoy a guided nature walk along idyllic beaches or explore the underwater world by snorkeling, kayaking, or taking a glass-bottom boat tour. After lunch onboard, continue to South Plaza Island, where you’ll encounter vibrant birdlife, striking flora, and land iguanas basking along the rocky shore. (B, L, D)
Monday, November 9 – Santa Cruz’s Conservation Efforts
Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island, where you’ll learn about groundbreaking conservation programs and see giant tortoises and Darwin’s finches. Enjoy lunch in the island’s cooler highlands, where giant tortoises roam freely, then spend the afternoon exploring further with activities like mountain biking or visiting a local sugar plantation. (B, L, D)
Tuesday, November 10 – Dramatic Española Island
Explore Española, the southernmost island of the Galápagos, renowned for its incredible birdlife. Spot Nazca Boobies, Blue-footed Boobies, and Waved Albatrosses (April–December) and watch as marine iguanas and red Española lava lizards bask in the sun. Visit the famous blowhole, El Soplador, and later relax at Gardner Bay’s pristine coral beaches, where sea lions and finches make their home. Snorkeling and kayaking are also available. (B, L, D)
Wednesday, November 11 – Wildlife at Eden Islet
Discover Eden Islet’s rich marine life, including green turtles, reef sharks, and rays. Swim or snorkel in the vibrant reefs, explore by kayak, or view the underwater world from a glass-bottom boat. Later, visit North Seymour Island, known for its thriving colonies of Blue-footed Boobies, frigatebirds, and sea lions. (B, L, D)
Thursday, November 12 – Farewell to the Galápagos
Your incredible journey concludes as you disembark at Baltra Island. A transfer will take you to the airport for your flight back to Quito, where you can connect to your international flight or continue your adventure with an optional post-program to explore more of Ecuador. (B)
