Galapagos Elite Cruise: 4-Day Itinerary Southern Islands (C)

Upon arrival at San Cristobal Airport, you’ll be transferred to your vessel to begin your unforgettable journey.

David Rodriguez Breeding Center

This conservation center offers fascinating insights into the origins and evolution of the Galapagos giant tortoise. The facility plays a crucial role in ensuring the survival of these incredible creatures.

As you explore the reserve’s trails, you’ll have the chance to see baby tortoises thriving in semi-natural habitats—an inspiring showcase of the local community’s dedication to wildlife preservation.

Suarez Point

Suarez Point is a wildlife hotspot, best explored via a scenic walking trail. Along the way, you’ll pass large colonies of Nazca and blue-footed boobies, as well as Galapagos mockingbirds.

Española is the only island where you can see the magnificent waved albatross, often launching themselves gracefully from the cliffs. Look out for the striking red and green marine iguanas unique to this island.

One of the area’s highlights is its dramatic blowholes, where ocean waves shoot up to 25 meters into the air—perfect for breathtaking photos!

Gardner Bay, Gardner & Osborn Islets

With its pristine white sand and playful sea lions, Gardner Bay is a perfect spot to unwind. You can also go kayaking or paddleboarding, where you may spot waved albatross nesting nearby.

A short panga ride will take you to the Gardner and Osborn Islets—amazing snorkeling sites where you can swim alongside young sea lions, colorful tropical fish, and vibrant coral reefs.

Cormorant Point & Devil’s Crown

Cormorant Point boasts two distinct beaches—one with shimmering olive-green sand rich in olivine crystals and another, known as Flour Beach, with powdery white sand composed of crushed coral.

A nearby saltwater lagoon is home to one of the largest populations of Galapagos flamingos, alongside other shorebirds like stilts, white-cheeked pintails, and flycatchers.

Next, a zodiac ride will take you to Devil’s Crown, a partially submerged volcanic crater renowned for its spectacular snorkeling. Beneath the waves, you’ll find thriving coral reefs and a dazzling array of marine life. This spot is also a haven for seabirds due to its open-water location.

Post Office Bay

This historic bay was once a stop for sailors who left letters in a wooden barrel for fellow travelers to deliver—long before the Galapagos became a popular travel destination!

Today, visitors continue the tradition by leaving postcards and browsing for letters they can hand-deliver. Afterward, relax on the sandy shore before heading back to your vessel.

The Baroness’ Lookout

In the 1930s, Floreana Island was home to Eloise Wehrborn de Wagner-Bosquet, a mysterious Austrian woman who called herself the “Baroness of the Galapagos.” She lived here with her two lovers before vanishing under mysterious circumstances in 1934.

A short panga ride takes you along the shore, where you may spot rays and turtles near the red mangroves. A brief hike leads to a panoramic viewpoint, offering breathtaking coastal views. Nearby, you’ll find the remains of an old biological station used in 1934 by filmmakers who captured the Baroness’ story on film.

Mosquera Islet

Nestled between Baltra and North Seymour, this small sandy islet has no designated trails, allowing visitors to freely explore its pristine landscapes. You’ll encounter a thriving colony of sea lions, along with shorebirds and the striking Sally Lightfoot crabs clinging to volcanic rocks.

The surrounding coral reefs make it a fantastic snorkeling spot, where you might encounter sharks, sea turtles, and rays gliding through the crystal-clear waters.

After this final excursion, you’ll be transferred to Baltra Airport, where you’ll check in for your return flight to mainland Ecuador—bringing an end to an unforgettable Galapagos adventure.