Galapagos Galaxy: Itinerary Northern Islands (E)

Upon arrival at Baltra Airport, you’ll be welcomed by a naturalist guide and transferred to the cruise. In the afternoon, we visit Mosquera Islet, a small sandbar with one of the largest sea lion colonies in the archipelago. Walk along the beach, observe playful pups in the tide pools, and spot lava gulls soaring overhead. If conditions allow, enjoy a snorkeling session, where you may encounter reef sharks, rays, and tropical fish.

The morning begins at Sullivan Bay, where we hike across a vast expanse of hardened lava flows, showcasing the island’s volcanic origins. Look for pioneer plants and lava lizards that have begun to colonize this rugged landscape. Snorkeling here reveals a thriving underwater world of penguins, reef sharks, and marine turtles. In the afternoon, we visit Bartolome Island, home to the famous Pinnacle Rock. A short hike to the summit provides panoramic views of the surrounding islands. The area is also a prime snorkeling spot, where you may swim alongside sea lions, rays, and colorful reef fish.

Today, we explore Genovesa Island, a paradise for birdwatchers. Our morning hike at El Barranco, also known as Prince Philip’s Steps, takes us along rugged cliffs where red-footed boobies nest and short-eared owls hunt storm petrels. In the afternoon, we visit Darwin Bay, a sandy coral beach surrounded by mangroves. The area is home to frigatebirds, swallow-tailed gulls, and marine iguanas. Snorkeling in the bay provides excellent opportunities to see rays, sharks, and playful sea lions.

Our final morning takes us to the Interpretation Center on San Cristobal Island, where we learn about the human history, geology, and conservation efforts in the Galapagos. After the visit, we transfer to the airport for our flight back to mainland Ecuador, concluding a short yet unforgettable journey through this natural paradise.