Galapagos Galaxy: Itinerary Western Islands (B)

Upon arrival at Baltra Island, you’ll be greeted and transferred to Santa Cruz Island. A short ferry ride across the Itabaca Channel brings us to Puerto Ayora. After lunch on board, we venture into the highlands, where we trek through lush landscapes to observe giant tortoises in their natural habitat. The highlands are also home to lava tunnels and a variety of endemic bird species. In the evening, enjoy a welcome cocktail and a briefing about the exciting journey ahead.

In the morning, we explore Tintoreras, a small islet near Puerto Villamil known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant wildlife. Here, we observe marine iguanas basking on lava rocks, playful sea lions, and white-tipped reef sharks resting in natural channels. After breakfast, we set sail for Moreno Point, where a hike through ancient lava fields leads to hidden tide pools filled with marine life. Birdwatchers will delight in spotting herons, flamingos, and flightless cormorants.

Our day begins at Elizabeth Bay, a secluded cove accessible only by dinghy. This mangrove-lined bay is a haven for Galapagos penguins, spotted eagle rays, and sea lions. We then continue to Urbina Bay, located at the foot of Alcedo Volcano. This unique site was uplifted from the sea due to volcanic activity, creating a surreal landscape now inhabited by land iguanas, hawks, and giant tortoises. A guided walk reveals remnants of the ocean floor, now far above sea level.

Tagus Cove, once a hideout for pirates, is home to historic inscriptions left by 19th-century sailors. A short hike offers breathtaking views of Darwin Lake, a saltwater crater with no fish due to its extreme salinity. In the afternoon, we land at Espinoza Point on Fernandina Island, the most pristine island in the Galapagos. Here, we find dense colonies of marine iguanas, the unique flightless cormorant, and Galapagos hawks. The island’s volcanic landscape and abundant wildlife make it a highlight of the journey.

Egas Port features a striking black sand beach formed by volcanic activity. A trail leads us past tidal pools and lava formations, where we observe fur seals resting in hidden grottos. The area is also home to shorebirds and marine iguanas. In the afternoon, we visit Espumilla Beach, a golden sandy shore backed by a lush Palo Santo forest. This beach is an important nesting site for sea turtles, and its waters are excellent for snorkeling, offering sightings of rays and tropical fish.

Our final morning includes a scenic navigation around Daphne Mayor, a volcanic tuff cone known for its birdlife, or a visit to Dragon Hill on Santa Cruz Island. Dragon Hill is named for its healthy population of land iguanas, which were part of a successful conservation program. A short hike takes us past brackish lagoons that attract flamingos and other wading birds. After this final excursion, we transfer to Baltra Airport for our departure, concluding an unforgettable Galapagos adventure.