Galapagos Endemic: Itinerary Western and Central Islands (F)

Upon arrival at Baltra Airport, you will be greeted and assisted before transferring to the M/C Endemic.
In the afternoon, explore Sullivan Bay on Santiago Island, where a white coral sand beach meets lava formations that are less than a century old. This site offers a unique opportunity to witness the volcanic origins of the Galapagos, with fascinating lava fields and resilient flora growing amidst the hardened lava.

Start the day by exploring Isabela Island, the largest in the archipelago, covering over half of the Galapagos’ total land area.

In the morning, visit Sierra Negra Volcano, one of the largest craters in the Galapagos, with breathtaking contrasts between lava fields, green vegetation, and steaming fumaroles.

On your way to Orchilla Hill, keep an eye out for giant tortoises and marine iguanas. From the summit, admire stunning views of Puerto Villamil, nearby volcanoes, and surrounding islets.

In the afternoon, head to the Arnaldo Tupiza Breeding Center, where young giant tortoises are nurtured before being released into the wild. On the return trip, spot flamingos and other water birds.

Begin the morning with a Zodiac ride through Elizabeth Bay, a marine site without a landing point. Visit Marielas Islets, home to the largest Galapagos penguin colony. Glide through red mangroves where you may encounter sea turtles, flightless cormorants, spotted eagle rays, golden rays, pelicans, and sea lions.

In the afternoon, visit Urbina Bay, known for its coral formations, colorful land iguanas, and a rich variety of wildlife including giant tortoises, flightless cormorants, blue-footed boobies, penguins, and marine iguanas.

After breakfast, explore Tagus Cove, a historic pirate hideout. A Zodiac ride along the cliffs provides opportunities to spot Galapagos penguins, flightless cormorants, and seabirds. A short hike leads to a viewpoint overlooking Darwin Lake, a saltwater lake saltier than the ocean, and nearby volcanoes.

In the afternoon, visit Espinoza Point on Fernandina Island, an untouched volcanic landscape with lava cacti and mangroves. This area is home to sea lions, penguins, flightless cormorants (especially in spring and summer), and one of the largest colonies of marine iguanas in the Galapagos.

In the morning, explore Buccaneer Cove, a former pirate refuge known for its rugged cliffs, diverse birdlife (including blue-footed and Nazca boobies), and excellent snorkeling and kayaking. Alternatively, visit Espumilla Beach, a pristine sandy stretch where marine iguanas, Sally Lightfoot crabs, and predatory herons thrive. The clear waters offer a great chance to see octopuses, moray eels, and reef sharks while snorkeling.

In the afternoon, head to Rabida Island, famous for its red sand beach, volcanic rock formations, and unique vegetation. A walk along the shore offers sightings of brown pelican nests, sea lions, and a lagoon where flamingos occasionally gather.

Begin the day with a visit to Mosquera Islet, a small sandbank between Baltra and North Seymour Islands. It is home to one of the largest sea lion colonies in the Galapagos, along with lava gulls, Sally Lightfoot crabs, and, on occasion, orca whales.

After this final adventure, transfer back to Baltra Airport for your return flight to mainland Ecuador, where you will receive assistance and bid farewell.