Following Darwin’s Legacy: Ultimate Galapagos
Trip Overview
Trip Length: 15 Days
Price Point: From $18,050
Seasons Available: Year-Round
What if you could explore all of the Galapagos, not just a part of it? Quasar Expeditions’ Darwin’s Legacy is one of the most extensive itineraries available—a 15-day journey that immerses you in the full wonder of the archipelago, far beyond the limits of a typical weeklong cruise. Aboard the Evolution Yacht, a spacious, 1920s-style vessel, you’ll sail across the islands, encountering iconic wildlife at every turn—blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, playful sea lions, and ancient giant tortoises. Each day offers new landscapes and adventures, from snorkeling with penguins to hiking volcanic trails and kayaking through hidden coves. With expert Naturalist Guides leading intimate small-group excursions, this voyage is about more than sightseeing—it’s a deep, uninterrupted connection to one of the world’s last true wild places. If you’re looking for the ultimate Galapagos experience, this is it.
- The Most Extensive Itinerary – A 15-day journey covering the entire Galapagos, from volcanic western isles to wildlife-rich eastern shores.
- Unmatched Wildlife Encounters – See giant tortoises, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, penguins, and sea lions up close.
- Diverse Adventures – Snorkel, kayak, hike, and take panga rides to explore the islands from every angle.
- Small-Group Exploration – Travel with expert Naturalist Guides and just 32 guests for a personalized experience.
- Luxury Afloat – Sail aboard the Evolution Yacht, a 1920s-style vessel with spacious decks and al-fresco dining.
Day to Day Itinerary
- Day 1 - Baltra
Arrive at Baltra Island, a key Galapagos gateway. In the afternoon, head to Daphne Island or Bahia Borrero—known for their rugged volcanic landscapes and abundant birdlife, including frigatebirds and blue-footed boobies. - Day 2 - Isabela/Fernandina
Explore Punta Vicente Roca on Isabela Island, where towering cliffs and marine iguanas greet visitors. The waters are teeming with marine life, making it a perfect for snorkeling spot. In the afternoon, Punta Espinoza on Fernandina Island offers a stunning, pristine landscape where you'll spot the famous flightless cormorants and iguanas. - Day 3 - Isabela
Urbina Bay offers a walk through a unique landscape formed by volcanic uplift, with opportunities to see land iguanas and sea turtles. In the afternoon, head to Tagus Cove, a bay rich in history with pirate tales, and where its calm waters are ideal for kayaking and snorkeling. - Day 4 - Bartholome/Santiago
Bartholome Island's Pinnacle Rock offers iconic views and a hike to one of the most photographed spots in the Galapagos. The area is famous for its stark volcanic beauty. Sullivan Bay on Santiago Island features fascinating lava formations, perfect for exploring on foot while observing colonies of sea lions. - Day 5 - Santa Cruz/Rabida
Bachas Beach on Santa Cruz Island is a peaceful location with powdery white sand where see sea turtles nest. In the afternoon, Rabida Island's red-hued beaches and rich marine life make it a great spot for kayaking and snorkeling, with sea lions and colorful fish around every corner. - Day 6 - Santa Cruz
Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station in the morning, where conservation efforts to protect the Galapagos tortoises are in full swing. In the afternoon, the Highlands’ lush, green scenery contrasts with the dry lowlands, and you’ll encounter wild tortoises roaming freely in their natural habitat. - Day 7 - Española
Punta Suarez on Española Island is a wildlife lover's dream—home to dramatic cliffs, sea lions, and one of the largest populations of endemic albatross. Later, visit Gardner Bay, where you can kayak around Osborn Islet and Gardner Islet, spotting rays, sea turtles, and colorful fish while snorkeling. - Day 8 - San Cristobal/Cerro Brujo
Kicker Rock offers jaw-dropping rock formations and a chance to swim among sea lions, rays, and sometimes even hammerhead sharks. The Interpretation Center on San Cristobal Island provides fascinating insights into the Galapagos’ history. In the afternoon, Cerro Brujo is perfect for spotting frigatebirds and sea lions as you hike along its beautiful beaches. - Day 9 - South Plazas/Santa Cruz
South Plazas Island is home to a thriving colony of land iguanas and colorful marine iguanas. The landscape here is rugged with red and green vegetation. In the afternoon, Punta Carrion on Santa Cruz offers an excellent snorkeling opportunity with diverse marine life, and Mosquera Island is famous for its large sea lion colony. - Day 10 - Santiago Island
Chinese Hat Islet is known for its cone-shaped volcanic formation and vibrant marine life, including sea turtles and penguins. James Bay on Santiago Island offers fascinating salt marshes and a chance to see shorebirds and sea lions while hiking around Puerto Egas. - Day 11 - Genovesa
Darwin Bay is a peaceful haven for seabirds, including red-footed boobies, while its beach offers a perfect spot for snorkeling with clear waters teeming with marine life. In the afternoon, hike the steep Prince Phillip’s Steps for breathtaking views and encounters with Nazca boobies and sea lions. - Day 12 - North Seymour/Santa Fe
North Seymour Island is teeming with wildlife—blue-footed boobies and magnificent frigatebirds nest here, and sea lions play in the waters. Santa Fe Island features a unique landscape with prickly pear cacti and a chance to see the endemic Santa Fe land iguana, along with plenty of sea lion action. - Day 13 - Floreana
Visit Post Office Bay, famous for the historic “post office barrel,” used by 18th-century whalers to send messages and still in use today. Later, head to Punta Cormorant, a birdwatcher's paradise with opportunities to see flamingos in the lagoon. Devil’s Crown offers one of the best snorkeling spots in the archipelago, with vibrant marine life and dramatic underwater volcanic formations. - Day 14 - Santa Cruz
Hike to Los Gemelos, two fascinating volcanic craters up in the Highlands’ lush forests and see giant wild tortoises grazing in their natural environment. - Day 15 - Back Turtle Cove/Baltra
Back Turtle Cove is a quiet, secluded spot perfect for a peaceful Zodiac ride, with great opportunities to spot marine life and birdlife. In the late morning, return to Baltra Island for your departure to mainland Ecuador, leaving with unforgettable memories of the Galapagos Islands.
Evolution
Aboard Evolution, experience the Galapagos Islands in the comfort of a yacht that blends the elegance of the 1920s with modern luxury. Exclusively designed for just 32 guests, the yacht offers a unique, intimate adventure in the footsteps of Darwin. With spacious suites, 360-degree exterior walkarounds, and personalized service, you’ll enjoy wildlife encounters in a crowd-free setting guided by Naturalist Guides with over 15 years of experience. The yacht features four categories of accommodation, including a luxurious Master Suite, while all rooms include a wardrobe, air conditioning, a safety box, and a private bathroom. Enjoy dining in the stylish indoor and al-fresco spaces, unwind in the lounge or library, or relax in the hot tub and solarium. With three Zodiacs for snorkeling and wildlife-watching, Evolution is your gateway to an unforgettable Galapagos adventure, combining elegance, comfort, and the thrill of exploration.
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