Amazing and Diverse

A trip to the Galapagos Islands is always splendid, however the pleasant (not so hot) weather in August allows a more comfortable visit.

The Flight 

From Quito you fly to Guayaquil and in an hour and ten minutes you will arrive to the airport at Baltra, your first contact with the Enchanted Islands: cactus, intense sun, turquoise sea. The unique flora and fauna on the Galapagos Islands are due to many factors such as: the volcanic origin, the distance to the mainland, the direction of the winds, the confluence of the marine currents. Charles Darwin was inspired by his observations during his short visit to the islands in 1835, to develop his Theory of Evolution, thus revolutionizing modern thinking.

Santa Cruz Island 

Santa Cruz Island Your first visit will be to the Charles Darwin Research Station founded to support conservation efforts on the Archipelago. Scientists, educators, research students, volunteers and support staff from all over the world work at the Charles Darwin Research Station for the conservation of this “living laboratory of evolution”. One of the most serious problems to the ecosystem in the Galapagos Islands are the introduced species such as dogs, cats, goats and insects among others. The Charles Darwin Station, with the cooperation of other partners such as the Galapagos National Park, is permanently working to control these threats to the ecosystem on the Islands. They have a breeding and conservation progam for the Giant Tortoise. See the giant tortoises in large pens that simulate the environment on their island of origin, and the baby tortoises, all kept safe from introduced predators. When these tortoises are strong enough to survive, they are returned to their island of origin. On your way back to the Yacht, you will walk through the picturesque town of Puerto Ayora where you will find a variety of souvenirs.

Genovesa Island 

Snorkeling in the Galapagos Islands is a real treat where you discover and explore an exciting underwater paradise! 

You will disembark at Darwin Bay on a white coral beach. Here you will observe the fascinating Red-footed boobies nesting on branches unlike the Blue-footed boobies that nest on the ground. You will also see Swallow tailed gulls, Petrels, Frigate birds and others. Then, back to the beach and snorkeling for those who wish.

In the afternoon, disembark at Prince Philip´s Steps and you will be guided up and along the cliff. Here you will be able to observe the flora and fauna, you will see Storm petrels, boobies and frigate birds and with a little bit of luck, the Galapagos Owl.

Fernandina and Isabela Islands 

Disembark early for a visit to Punta Espinoza, a highlight on this trip. The sea offers abundant vegetation thus the coastal rocks are home to Marine iguanas, Sea lions, Penguins, Flightless cormorants, Herons, and Marine turtles! Snorkeling at this spot is an unforgettable experience. Back to the yacht for lunch.

Disembark at Isabella on the foot of the Alcedo Volcano. Observe an example of the geological acti-vity of the island: in 1984 almost 4 miles of the coast were elevated 15 feet giving birth to new and endemic vegetation. Here you will see many land iguanas, land tortoises, Darwin´s finches among other fauna.

Santiago and Bartolome Islands 

Santiago and Bartolome IslandsWet landing on the black beach to visit Puerto Amazing and DiverseEgas. On this beach you will see Marine iguanas, the Blue heron, the Oystercatcher, Lava heron, Gulls and other coastal birds, Sally lightfoot crabs, and fur seals. After your walk, swimming and snorkeling. Early afternoon, you will visit the Island of San Bartolome, with its volcanic landscapes of such beauty that its images have traveled all around the world. You disembark for a swim or to snorkel from the beach. Here you will swim with sea lions, and the Galapagos penguin, the second smallest penguin in the world. The last El Nino current warmed the waters and unfortunately reduced the Penguin Colony considerably. You can take a short walk from the beach to the shore behind the bay. Here you cannot swim but will be amazed by the sharks and manta rays that can easily be observed swimming and flipping close to the shore.

Later in the afternoon, you will climb the 370 wood stairs to the top of the island at an altitude of 114 meters. The climb is certainly worth it, the awesome lunar landscape contrasting with the beauty of the color of the sea will enchant you. Take fantastic pictures!

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