Wild Galapagos Escape
Trip Overview
Trip Length: 8 Days
Price Point: From $8,154
Seasons Available: Year-Round
The Wild Galapagos Escape is a compact yet immersive experience designed to bring you face-to-face with one of the world’s most unique ecosystems. Over a week, explore the pristine Galápagos Islands, a sanctuary where wildlife and humans coexist harmoniously in an unspoiled natural setting.
Imagine kayaking through turquoise waters teeming with playful sea lions, snorkeling alongside schools of vibrant fish, and marveling at marine iguanas basking in the sun. Walk among giant tortoises placidly roaming these islands and witness blue-footed boobies perform their iconic courtship dance. Every step on this volcanic archipelago reveals new wonders, with the guidance of expert naturalists and photographers from National Geographic helping you capture each unforgettable moment.
Onboard the sleek and intimate National Geographic Islander II, luxury blends seamlessly with adventure. Your small group ensures personalized attention and access to the islands’ hidden gems. Each day is filled with opportunities for exploration—whether it’s hiking across otherworldly landscapes, visiting local conservation projects, or soaking in breathtaking views from the ship’s deck.
This escape is more than a vacation; it’s an opportunity to connect deeply with nature, to marvel at evolution in action, and to ignite your curiosity about the fragile beauty of our planet. The Wild Galapagos Escape is a life-affirming adventure that will stay with you long after the journey ends.
Activities & Sites
- Make the expedition as active as you choose, with options to snorkel, hike, kayak, and paddle.
- Enjoy the expert guidance of an expedition leader, three naturalists, a National Geographic-certified photo instructor, an undersea specialist, and a wellness specialist.
- Walk among colonies of wildlife and seabirds unfazed by your presence, including the only colonies of penguins living north of the Equator.
- Experience lush, green highlands where you’ll see giant tortoises roaming in the wild.
- Learn about ongoing efforts to protect the fragile ecosystems of the Galápagos.
- Experience great shield volcanoes, including the most active oceanic volcano in the world on Fernandina Island, which is also home to the unique flightless cormorant and marine iguanas.
Day to Day Itinerary
- Day 1: Ecuador
Arrive in Quito - Ecuador's capital city in the Andes - or Guayaquil - the largest coastal city- and transfer to a luxury hotel for an overnight stay. - Day 2: Baltra
Fly to Baltra, in the center of the Galápagos, and embark your expedition ship. Your adventure with expert guides begins. - Day 3-6: Galápagos Islands
During your adventure, you’ll visit a variety of islands, each with unique experiences. On Santa Cruz, explore the lush highlands and meet giant tortoises at the Charles Darwin Research Station. North Seymour offers sightings of nesting frigatebirds, blue-footed boobies, and marine iguanas. Sail past Isabela's volcanic terrain while watching for whales and dolphins. On Española, encounter waved albatrosses and Española mockingbirds. Finally, at Floreana, snorkel with sea lions, spot flamingos, and visit the historic Post Office Bay to engage in the traditional mail exchange. - Day 7: Baltra / Ecuador
Disembark in the morning for your return flight to mainland Ecuador. Enjoy a free afternoon and evening, and consider joining a post-voyage extension to explore the cultural richness of Guayaquil, Quito, and Otavalo. - Day 8: Ecuador
After breakfast, transfer to the airport and catch your flights home.
The National Geographic Islander II
Sleek and elegant, the National Geographic Islander II sails year-round in the Galápagos Islands, elevating the guest experience to an entirely new level. Designed specifically for the exploration of the Archipelago, this best-in-class expedition vessel feels like a private yacht. Accommodating just 48 guests, she sails with a 1:1 guest-to-crew ratio. The ship is equipped with spacious suites, modern public spaces, and locally inspired décor that reflects the Galápagos’ rich heritage. Special features include teak decks, indoor-outdoor dining options, an impressive observation deck, 26 light and airy suites, and new amenities like a climate-controlled Marina and a high-tech Science Hub. Guests on the National Geographic Islander II are not just passengers, but participants in a unique learning experience. Enjoy a range of amenities, including a sun deck, a spa, a fitness center, and a locally, sustainably sourced dining experience. While the ship’s expedition tools—kayaks, snorkeling gear, and Zodiacs—enhance wildlife encounters, what truly sets this ship apart is its crew and staff. A team of expert naturalists, a certified photo instructor, and a full expedition team (90% native to these islands) will guide your daily activities, ensuring travelers gain deep insight into the region’s unique wildlife and ecosystems. Whether hiking volcanic landscapes or snorkeling with sea lions, the Islander II seamlessly combines luxury with adventure, making it an ideal platform for discovering the Galápagos’ wonders.
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