Galapagos Galaxy: Itinerary Southeastern Islands (A)

Arriving at San Cristobal, you’ll be welcomed aboard and enjoy a refreshing drink before setting off to Lobos Island. This small islet is home to sea lions, marine iguanas, lava lizards, and the endemic Galapagos snake. Snorkeling here provides a chance to swim alongside these fascinating creatures. Later, we sail past the iconic Kicker Rock, a towering rock formation split into two, resembling a lion. Though landing is not permitted, the view from the boat is spectacular, offering a glimpse into the rugged beauty of the Galapagos.

At Gardner Bay, pristine white sands welcome colonies of sea lions lounging under the sun. Snorkeling in the turquoise waters reveals an array of marine life, including sea turtles and colorful reef fish. In the afternoon, we explore Suarez Point, a hotspot for birdwatchers. Here, blue-footed boobies perform their famous courtship dance, while the majestic waved albatross nests along the cliffs. The trail winds through rocky terrain, leading to a dramatic blowhole where ocean waves shoot high into the air.

At Post Office Bay, a historic barrel still serves as an informal mail system, a tradition dating back to the 18th century. Visitors can leave postcards and take others to hand-deliver. Next, we visit Punta Cormorant, where a striking green-sand beach meets a brackish lagoon, home to flamingos and shorebirds. Snorkeling at Devil’s Crown, a submerged volcanic crater, offers one of the best underwater experiences in the Galapagos. Here, vibrant coral reefs attract schools of fish, sea turtles, and even reef sharks.

Santa Fe Island is known for its turquoise bay and towering cacti, providing a unique habitat for the endemic Santa Fe land iguana. Snorkeling in the bay offers encounters with rays, sea lions, and marine turtles. Later, at South Plaza Island, we explore a dramatic cliffside home to nesting seabirds, including swallow-tailed gulls. The island’s rugged terrain is also inhabited by a large colony of sea lions and striking red and green sesuvium vegetation, which changes color with the seasons.

Our final stop takes us to the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island, where conservation efforts for the Galapagos tortoise are on display. Here, we learn about ongoing preservation projects and see giant tortoises in different stages of development. After this educational visit, we transfer to the airport for our return journey, concluding an unforgettable adventure.