Northern & Western Route: Volcanic Wonders
Trip Overview
Trip Length: 8 Days
Price Point: From $9,225
Seasons Available: Year-Round
Embark on an extraordinary journey through the western and northern reaches of the Galapagos, where remote, untouched islands like Isabela and Fernandina await your discovery. This captivating itinerary immerses you in the archipelago’s volcanic beauty and unique wildlife, guided by expert naturalists who bring the islands’ history and ecology to life. Every day promises unforgettable moments. Capture breathtaking sunset photos with Kicker Rock as your backdrop, a sanctuary for blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds. Snorkel alongside marine iguanas, sea turtles, and the rare flightless cormorant at Punta Espinoza. Marvel at American flamingos wading in a saltwater lagoon on Rabida Island’s red sand beach, or paddle through the serene waters of Tagus Cove. Indulge in fresh seafood barbecue lunches on the sundeck, trek through lush highlands to encounter Giant Tortoises in the wild, and enjoy exhilarating Zodiac rides, kayaking, and paddleboarding. For those craving more, combine this itinerary with the “Beaches and Bays” adventure or extend your exploration into Ecuador and Peru. Whether you’re capturing vibrant wildlife or soaking in the Galapagos’ rich marine life, this once-in-a-lifetime voyage promises memories as timeless as the islands themselves.
Activities & Sites
- Intimate Wildlife Encounters – Snorkel with sea lions and penguins, spot blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds, and giant tortoises.
- Diverse Landscapes – Explore lava fields, red sand beaches, and lush highlands across multiple islands.
- Land & Sea Adventures – Hike scenic trails, kayak through mangroves, and take Zodiac rides past stunning rock formations.
- Luxury Onboard – Enjoy gourmet dining, sunset cocktails, and expert-led lectures on a boutique expedition yacht.
- Conservation & History – Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, reforest native plants, and explore historic sites
Day to Day Itinerary
- Day 1 – San Cristóbal
Arrive in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno and transfer to your expedition yacht. After settling in, enjoy lunch, a safety briefing, and gear selection. Sail past Kicker Rock for sunset views before a welcome cocktail and gourmet dinner. - Day 2 – Genovesa
Explore Prince Philip’s Steps, home to red-footed and Nazca boobies, storm petrels, and short-eared owls. Enjoy a BBQ lunch, then kayak, paddleboard, or snorkel. In the afternoon, visit Darwin Bay to see frigatebirds and playful sea lions. End the day with local beer tasting and stargazing. - Day 3 – Santa Cruz
Visit Las Bachas for flamingo sightings and a beach walk before snorkeling. Guests on Theory explore Black Turtle Cove’s mangroves. In the afternoon, hike Cerro Dragon to spot land iguanas, finches, and other birdlife. - Day 4 – Isabela/Fernandina
Take a Zodiac ride at Punta Vicente Roca, exploring caves and snorkeling with penguins and sea turtles. After lunch, sail through Bolivar Channel, watching for whales and dolphins. In the afternoon, visit Urbina Bay to see land iguanas and giant tortoises. - Day 5 – Fernandina/Isabela
Explore Punta Espinoza, home to marine iguanas, sea lions, and flightless cormorants. Snorkel with sea turtles before a seafood lunch. Later, visit Tagus Cove, hike to a scenic lagoon, or kayak along the - Day 6 – Rabida/Santa Cruz
Walk Rabida’s red sand beach, spotting flamingos and snorkeling with colorful fish. Guests on Theory and Evolve visit Puerto Egas for tide pool exploration. In the afternoon, guests on Origin explore Black Turtle Cove’s mangroves. End the day with cocktails and an optional maritime ritual. - Day 7 – Santa Cruz
Visit giant tortoises at a local ranch, contribute to reforestation, and explore lava tunnels. In the afternoon, tour the Charles Darwin Research Station and stroll through Puerto Ayora before an optional dinner ashore. - Day 8 – San Cristóbal
Disembark and visit the Interpretation Center to learn about Galapagos history before transferring to the airport, taking home unforgettable memories.
Origin, Theory & Evolve
20-person sister yachts Origin, Theory, and Evolve offer a luxury floating safari in the Galápagos Islands. The most favorable passenger-to-guide ratio in the Galápagos will appeal to the life-long learner, plus those who appreciate creature comforts will enjoy the upscale accommodations and dining courtesy of the only Relais & Chateaux-approved cruise operator in the Archipelago. The attention to detail poured into each of these vessels is peerless. With design elements evoking the flora and fauna of the region and panoramic windows offering uninterrupted views of the real thing, the interiors have a modern, organic aesthetic and a deep commitment to sustainability. All 10 cabins are located on the same deck with two twin beds that can be converted to a standard 6’6” king-size bed and feature full-length panoramic windows to enjoy the expansive ocean and island views. Triple accommodation is available with a Pullman berth, while two sets of cabins can be interconnected to accommodate a family of four or five comfortably. Drawn from across the Galápagos and Ecuador, the guides and naturalists share their unique perspectives and deep knowledge of the region with their guests. For activities, groups of 10 guests will be accompanied by one crew member, and one naturalist guide makes for a very personalized learning experience. These vessels are perfect for guests who value sustainable travel but appreciate excellent service.
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