Galapagos Galaxy: Itinerary Central and Northern Islands (C)

Upon arrival at Baltra Island, you will be welcomed and transferred to Santa Cruz. After settling in, we begin our adventure at Black Turtle Cove, a secluded mangrove-lined bay accessible only by dinghy. This calm and shallow refuge is home to a rich variety of marine life, including black-tip reef sharks, sea turtles, and golden rays. Navigating through the maze of mangroves offers an excellent opportunity to observe these animals in a peaceful environment.

Our morning begins on Rabida Island, famous for its striking red sand beach caused by volcanic oxidation. A short trail leads to a lagoon where flamingos and other wading birds can often be seen. The area’s unique landscape is complemented by excellent snorkeling, with a chance to spot sea lions and colorful reef fish. In the afternoon, we visit Chinese Hat Islet, a volcanic cone surrounded by lava flows and coral formations. The snorkeling here is spectacular, with opportunities to swim alongside Galapagos penguins, white-tipped reef sharks, and playful sea lions.

North Seymour Island is known for its abundant birdlife and rugged terrain. Here, we witness the spectacular courtship displays of magnificent frigatebirds and observe blue-footed boobies nesting on rocky outcrops. Land iguanas and sea lions are also commonly seen. After lunch, we head to Mosquera Islet, a beautiful sandy atoll located between Baltra and North Seymour. This islet is home to one of the largest sea lion colonies in the Galapagos and offers a pristine beach ideal for walking and observing shorebirds.

Sullivan Bay, on Santiago Island, is an otherworldly volcanic landscape featuring recent lava flows that remain almost untouched by erosion. Walking across the hardened lava fields provides a glimpse into the archipelago’s geological origins. In the afternoon, we visit Bartolome Island, one of the most iconic locations in the Galapagos. A short hike to the summit offers panoramic views of Pinnacle Rock, a dramatic lava formation rising from the sea. The island’s beaches provide an excellent chance to see Galapagos penguins, while snorkeling around Pinnacle Rock reveals a diverse marine ecosystem.

Genovesa Island, known as “Bird Island,” is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. Our day begins at El Barranco, also called Prince Philip’s Steps, where a hike through rocky cliffs reveals colonies of red-footed boobies, storm petrels, and short-eared owls. In the afternoon, we explore Darwin Bay, a picturesque coral beach surrounded by a mangrove forest. Here, we find nesting frigatebirds, swallow-tailed gulls, and more red-footed boobies. The shallow waters of the bay are perfect for snorkeling, with abundant fish and the occasional hammerhead shark.

On our final day, we visit the Interpretation Center on San Cristobal Island. This modern facility provides insights into the history, geology, and conservation efforts of the Galapagos Islands. Interactive exhibits showcase the challenges and successes of preserving this fragile ecosystem. After this educational visit, we transfer to the airport for our departure, concluding a remarkable journey through the Galapagos.