Galapagos Elite Cruise: 8-Day Itinerary Western Islands (A)

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

El Junco Lagoon

Embark on a scenic hike along a rocky path enveloped by lush vegetation and diverse wildlife to reach the rim of El Junco Lagoon, a stunning crater lake in the highlands of San Cristobal. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views while watching frigate birds swoop down to bathe in the pristine waters.

North Seymour Island

This small yet vibrant island, named after British naval officer Lord Hugh Seymour, is home to an array of bird species. As you explore the low, bushy terrain, you’ll encounter blue-footed boobies, swallow-tailed gulls, and a thriving colony of frigate birds, with males proudly displaying their bright red throat pouches during mating season.

Santa Cruz Island – Dragon Hill

Dragon Hill derives its name from the numerous Galapagos land iguanas that inhabit the area. Strolling along the rugged coastline and through forests of cacti and Palo Santo trees, you’ll likely spot these fascinating creatures, resembling miniature dragons. At high tide, the nearby coral reef makes for an exceptional snorkeling spot, attracting a colorful variety of marine life.

Sierra Negra Volcano

One of the most active volcanoes in the Galapagos, Sierra Negra boasts the second-largest caldera in the world. As you ascend, you’ll pass through guava forests and, on clear days, be rewarded with spectacular views of Isabela’s other five volcanoes.

Arnaldo Tupiza Breeding Center

This conservation facility plays a vital role in increasing the population of two giant tortoise species. Strolling through the center, you’ll not only witness these incredible creatures up close but also enjoy the beautiful gardens teeming with native plants.

Moreno Point

Despite its initial appearance as a barren lava landscape, Moreno Point reveals hidden pockets of lush green lagoons and mangroves along its trails. This is a prime location for spotting Galapagos penguins, blue herons, and flamingos. Snorkeling or a panga ride along the rocky shoreline provides a chance to observe green sea turtles and white-tip reef sharks.

Urbina Bay

Situated at the base of Alcedo Volcano, Urbina Bay was dramatically uplifted in 1954, raising a 6 km stretch of coral reef above sea level. Today, the area is home to giant land iguanas and tortoises, with frequent sightings of Galapagos hawks and flightless cormorants. The bay’s waters are perfect for snorkeling, where you can encounter turtles, rays, and a variety of tropical fish.

Espinoza Point (Fernandina Island)

As the youngest island in the Galapagos, Fernandina remains an untouched natural paradise. Snorkeling here offers a rare opportunity to witness marine iguanas foraging underwater. On the shore, striking lava formations provide a habitat for basking marine iguanas and vibrant Sally Lightfoot crabs. The walking trails also showcase unique mangrove ecosystems and lava cacti.

Vicente Roca Point (Isabela Island)

Accessible only by panga, this picturesque bay features two coves that serve as nesting sites for blue-footed and Nazca boobies, gulls, and storm petrels. The cool waters attract an abundance of marine life, making this one of the best spots for snorkeling. You may encounter whales, dolphins, sea lions, and various marine birds feeding in the nutrient-rich waters.

Rabida Island

Renowned for its striking red sand beach, Rabida is framed by dramatic cliffs and volcanic hills covered in Palo Santo trees and endemic cacti. A panga ride along the shore allows for excellent birdwatching, including sightings of blue-footed and Nazca boobies. Snorkeling, kayaking, or paddleboarding here offers encounters with white-tip reef sharks and rays. On land, the saltbush vegetation provides nesting grounds for pelicans, while birdwatchers can delight in spotting mockingbirds, yellow warblers, and Darwin finches—all nine of which can be found on Rabida.

Bartolome Island

One of the most iconic landscapes in the Galapagos, Bartolome Island is known for its towering Pinnacle Rock. A hike to the summit rewards visitors with breathtaking views of lava formations and the surrounding ocean. The northern beach serves as a nesting ground for green sea turtles, while snorkeling opportunities abound, with potential sightings of spotted eagle rays, Galapagos penguins, and reef sharks.

Kicker Rock

A dramatic volcanic formation sculpted by erosion, Kicker Rock is a sanctuary for seabirds such as blue-footed boobies and frigate birds. The towering cliffs provide a stunning backdrop for photography as your boat circles the rock formation.

Witch Hill

This picturesque spot features a dazzling white sand beach accessible by dinghy. From here, you’ll have a perfect view of Kicker Rock in the distance. The eroded tuff cone of Witch Hill is surrounded by calm waters, making it an ideal snorkeling location. Exploring the beach and nearby trails offers a chance to see various shorebirds, finches, and mockingbirds.

Giant Tortoise Reserve

A visit to this reserve involves a 5 km hike through the lush landscapes of San Cristobal, where you’ll observe giant tortoises in their natural habitat. With an estimated population of 6,000 tortoises, this is one of the best places to witness these ancient reptiles up close. Other endemic species, including lava lizards and mockingbirds, can also be spotted here.

Before departing, explore the San Cristobal Interpretation Center, which offers an insightful overview of the islands’ history, from their natural evolution to human settlement and ongoing conservation efforts. Scenic trails behind the center lead to beautiful ocean viewpoints overlooking volcanic rock formations.

After your visit, you will be transferred to San Cristobal Airport for your departure.