Galapagos Horizon: Itinerary Isabela, Fernandina & Central Islands (B)

Upon arrival, board your vessel and receive a safety briefing. Begin your journey at Sullivan Bay on Santiago Island, known for its dramatic lava fields formed during a 19th-century eruption. Walk across the black volcanic terrain, spotting unique formations and patterns created by the cooling lava.

Explore Punta Vicente Roca, a marine-rich area on Isabela Island where you may see Galapagos penguins, blue-footed boobies, and the elusive mola-mola sunfish during a panga ride and snorkeling session. Then, visit Punta Espinoza on Fernandina Island, home to the largest colony of marine iguanas and the remarkable flightless cormorant, which has adapted to life in the ocean.

At Tagus Cove, hike through historic pirate hideouts and enjoy panoramic views of Darwin Lake. Spot mangrove finches, marine iguanas, and Galapagos penguins. Later, visit Urbina Bay, an uplifted seabed now home to land iguanas, tortoises, and occasional Galapagos hawks. Enjoy snorkeling in its crystal-clear waters, where sea turtles and rays are commonly seen.

Take a panga ride through Elizabeth Bay, a peaceful mangrove sanctuary teeming with sea turtles, marine birds, and playful sea lions. Then, visit Moreno Point, where black lava formations contrast with turquoise coastal lagoons. This area offers excellent snorkeling and birdwatching opportunities, with frequent sightings of white-tipped reef sharks and herons.

Discover the Charles Darwin Research Station, a conservation center dedicated to giant tortoise breeding and environmental research. Learn about the island’s conservation efforts before heading to the Santa Cruz Highlands, where you’ll observe giant tortoises roaming freely among lush vegetation and volcanic landscapes.

Visit Santa Fe Island, home to the endemic Santa Fe land iguana and towering Opuntia cacti. A hike reveals breathtaking views, while snorkeling offers encounters with sea lions and colorful reef fish. In the afternoon, explore South Plaza Island, famous for its dramatic cliffs, vibrant Sesuvium vegetation, and a large sea lion colony.

Snorkel at Devil’s Crown, one of the Galapagos’ best underwater sites, where you may see reef sharks, rays, and schools of tropical fish. Then, visit Cormorant Point, where a trail leads to a lagoon filled with flamingos and a pristine white sand beach. End the day at Post Office Bay, where travelers continue the centuries-old tradition of leaving postcards in a barrel for future visitors to deliver.

Conclude your journey at the San Cristobal Interpretation Center, where you’ll learn about the islands’ history, conservation efforts, and human impact on the archipelago. After the visit, transfer to the airport for your flight home.