Hermes Catamaran: Itinerary Northern Islands (D)

Upon arrival at Baltra Airport, transfer to your vessel and meet your guide. In the afternoon, explore the highlands of Santa Cruz, home to the famous Galápagos giant tortoises. Walk through lush greenery and volcanic formations, including massive lava tunnels that stretch over a kilometer. Keep an eye out for barn owls that roost in the tunnels before returning to your yacht for the evening.

Begin your morning at Dragon Hill on Santa Cruz Island, where land iguanas bask in the sun near a saltwater lagoon frequented by flamingos. Walk through a rare Scalesia tree forest, a habitat with only a few hundred specimens remaining worldwide.
In the afternoon, visit Chinese Hat, a small volcanic islet known for its striking landscapes. Relax on its white coral sand beach before snorkeling in crystal-clear waters filled with sea lions, tropical fish, and even Galápagos penguins.

Sail to Genovesa Island, a remote haven for birdlife. In the morning, hike up Prince Philip’s Steps (El Barranco), a cliffside path leading to a plateau bustling with Nazca boobies, red-footed boobies, and short-eared owls hunting among storm petrels.
In the afternoon, explore Darwin Bay, a stunning crater-formed inlet. Walk along its scenic trails to observe swallow-tailed gulls, lava herons, and great frigatebirds. A tidal lagoon provides the perfect setting for sea lions to play, while the island’s cliffs offer breathtaking views of the surrounding ocean.

On your final morning, take a peaceful panga ride through the mangrove forests of Black Turtle Cove. Observe marine life such as manta rays, green sea turtles, and whitetip reef sharks gliding through the shallow waters. After this serene experience, transfer back to Baltra Airport for your return flight.