Galapagos Monique: Western & Central Route Expedition (A)

Upon arrival at Baltra Airport, you will be greeted and transferred to the M/C Monique. In the afternoon, visit Las Bachas Beach, a white-sand paradise perfect for a gentle introduction to the Galapagos. You may spot sea turtles nesting and enjoy snorkeling in calm, shallow waters. The beach is also known for its historical WWII remnants and birdlife like flamingos and herons.

Begin the day at Rábida Island, known for its distinctive red beach and coastal cliffs. Explore a saltwater lagoon and dry forest habitat home to pelicans and the occasional flamingo. In the afternoon, head to Punta Albemarle on Isabela Island. Navigate its mangrove estuary by dinghy and observe flightless cormorants, marine iguanas, and remnants of a wartime radar station surrounded by pristine wildlife.

Morning brings you to Vicente Roca Point, an incredible snorkeling site abundant in marine life including whales and dolphins. A dinghy ride along rocky cliffs reveals seabird colonies. In the afternoon, explore Tagus Cove by foot and by sea, discovering volcanic landscapes and panoramic views of Darwin Lake, while watching for penguins and cormorants along the shore.

Start with a visit to Fernandina Island’s Espinoza Point, a pristine site where lava meets sea. Marvel at marine iguanas, sea lions, penguins, and unique plant life growing on black volcanic terrain. In the afternoon, walk through Urbina Bay to find giant tortoises and colorful land iguanas in a setting uplifted by tectonic forces, revealing coral beds far from the sea.

Morning exploration of Puerto Egas offers views of volcanic rock pools filled with marine iguanas and shorebirds. You may encounter fur seals lounging in shaded grottos. In the afternoon, Buccaneer Cove awaits, once a refuge for pirates. A dinghy ride past eroded cliffs reveals nesting sites for seabirds and leads to excellent snorkeling among sea turtles and rays.

At Bartolome Island, climb to a summit for panoramic views over lava fields and Pinnacle Rock, then snorkel with penguins and reef sharks along the shoreline. In the afternoon, explore the lava-sculpted terrain of Sullivan Bay, rich in geological history and a haven for green sea turtles during nesting season.

North Seymour Island is buzzing with activity from blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds, and other seabirds nesting among dry vegetation. In the afternoon, visit Mosquera Islet—a low-lying stretch of white sand home to sea lions and colorful crabs. The waters here offer fantastic snorkeling with rays, turtles, and reef fish in a tranquil setting.

Conclude your journey with a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station in Puerto Ayora. Tour the tortoise breeding center and learn about efforts to conserve the unique species of the Galapagos. Afterward, transfer to Baltra Airport for your flight back to mainland Ecuador.