Galapagos Monique: Eastern & Northern Route Expedition (B)

Arrive at Baltra Airport and transfer to the M/C Monique. In the afternoon, visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, home to giant tortoise conservation efforts. Then continue into the highlands of Santa Cruz, where you’ll encounter wild tortoises and enjoy birdwatching among the native vegetation, including species of finches and warblers.

At Post Office Bay, take part in an 18th-century mail exchange ritual and explore lava tunnels. Later at Cormorant Point, discover two contrasting beaches and a flamingo-populated lagoon. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters and explore this biodiverse island rich in history and marine life.

Start your day at Punta Suarez, where rugged trails lead you past colonies of Nazca and blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, and seasonal waved albatrosses. In the afternoon, relax at Gardner Bay’s white-sand beach and snorkel around nearby islets among rays, fish, and sea lions in turquoise waters.

Sail around Kicker Rock, a dramatic volcanic formation teeming with seabirds. Swim or snorkel in its rich waters, then visit Witch Hill, a serene bay with calm, clear waters and a saltwater lagoon. In the afternoon, explore the San Cristobal Interpretation Center to learn about the islands’ history, ecosystems, and conservation efforts.

Explore Santa Fe’s cactus-covered terrain and meet its endemic pale-yellow land iguanas. Snorkel in the calm bay with playful sea lions and reef fish. In the afternoon, walk South Plaza’s colorful landscape and encounter nesting seabirds along its cliffs and lava formations.

Arrive at Darwin Bay, a volcanic caldera where red-footed boobies and male frigatebirds perform courtship displays. In the afternoon, climb El Barranco (Prince Philip’s Steps) to observe Nazca boobies, storm petrels, and fur seals among the cliffs. Snorkeling here may include encounters with various species of sharks.

Snorkel off Chinese Hat, a lava-formed islet with excellent marine life. Then visit Dragon Hill to observe thriving land iguanas and a saltwater lagoon that draws flamingos and ducks. Hike to a panoramic viewpoint before enjoying one last snorkeling session offshore.

Explore Black Turtle Cove by dinghy in the calm morning hours. Glide through a mangrove labyrinth and observe rays, reef sharks, sea turtles, and waterfowl in this peaceful sanctuary. Afterward, transfer to Baltra Airport for your flight to mainland Ecuador.