Central and South America

Galápagos Islands | Investigating Endemic Wildlife aboard Coral I or II with Mary Washington Alumni on the Road

Date:
Jun 6 - Jun 16, 2025
Duration:
11 Days
Price:
From $7,445
Interests:
Natural History
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Middle of the World Monument
Galápagos giant tortoise
Sea lion underwater in Galápagos
Waved Albatross
South Plaza Island
Marine iguana and Blue-footed Boobies
Green sea turtle laying eggs
Flamingos in Galápagos
Santa Cruz Island
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About this trip

Named for the tortoises that roam the lush landscapes of this small archipelago, the Galápagos Islands have become world-renowned for endemic and highly specialized wildlife, including Darwin’s finches, giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and more. Join Mary Washington Alumni on the Road to cruise aboard the M/Y Coral I or II and explore the unusual volcanic landscapes that make this archipelago so special. As you make your way from one island to the next, gain an up-close understanding of the island's unique ecosystems and unparalleled biodiversity while experiencing unforgettable wildlife encounters and enriching activities.
PLEASE NOTE: This itinerary is subject to change without prior notice due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g. weather) or at the discretion of the captain, guide, or the Galápagos National Park.
POST-TRIP EXTENSION: Continue your travel experience with an optional extension to Peru's Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, June 15 to 21, 2025.

Highlights

  • Explore historical Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and straddle both hemispheres at once at the Middle of the World Monument.
  • Explore the islands by boat and small panga craft, making wet and dry landings to hike, swim, and snorkel.
  • Encounter the iconic wildlife of the Galápagos, including Blue-footed, Red-footed and Nazca Boobies, Waved Albatrosses, Galápagos snakes, green sea turtles, and sea lions.
  • Marvel at striking landscapes and hardy vegetation endemic to the Galápagos and its volcanic terrain, like red Sesuvium and Scalesia forests.
  • See giant tortoises up close and learn about the important conservation and education efforts taking place at the Charles Darwin Research Center.
Land Cost

$7,445

Per person

About this price

Land cost only. Does not include round-trip airfare to and from destination.

What makes us different

Rich content

All of our programs include experiences that are enriching and engaging to facilitate a genuine connection between our travelers and their destinations

Carbon offsetting

As part of our commitment to sustainable travel, we partner with ClimateSafe to offset the carbon emissions from each journey

Wildlife up-close

Enjoy up-close observation of the behaviors and interactions of wildlife in their native habitats

Service anytime

Enjoy worry-free travel — our emergency line is monitored 24/7/365 so we can assist you if any problems arise while you’re traveling with us

Expert guides

We take pride in hiring local guides who are carefully selected for their knowledge, sensitivity and skill in the field

Flight arrangements

We’re a full service travel provider and are happy to assist with making your flight arrangements if desired

AND MORE!

See all the reasons why you should travel with Holbrook

What makes us different

Daily Itinerary

Print Itinerary
Quito
Upon arrival in Quito, you will be met and transported to your hotel.
Hotel Patio Andaluz
Quito
After breakfast, at 8:30am, receive an orientation from your guide. Afterwards, take a city tour of Quito, Ecuador's capital. Surrounded by volcanoes, Quito is a unique city that boasts one of the largest and best-preserved colonial centers in America, earning it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Travel north of the city to the equator for a visit to the Middle of the World Monument. Before dinner, attend a lecture titled "Introduction to Geology of the Galápagos Islands."
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Hotel Patio Andaluz
Galapagos Islands
After breakfast, travel from the hotel to the airport in Quito for the flight to Baltra Island in the Galápagos. Upon arrival to Baltra, you will be picked up and taken to the pier to board the M/Y Coral II. This afternoon, experience a dry landing at North Seymour Island, off of Baltra Island and not far from Santa Cruz Island. This landmass was formed by a series of underwater volcanic eruptions, which deposited layers of lava on the ocean floor. Take a two-hour walk amidst large nesting colonies of the Blue-footed Booby, Magnificent and Great Frigatebird, and Swallow-tailed Gull for an in-depth encounter with sea bird breeding cycles and sea lions. There is also a chance to encounter land iguanas and, on a lucky day, even come across the endemic Galápagos snake.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Coral II
Galapagos Islands
This morning, visit the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island. Once home to the famous Lonesome George, the last tortoise of the Pinta race, the breeding and relocation center is named in honor of his long-time guardian. The center is set in the Galápagos National Park Service, where various interpretative buildings are available to visit. The grounds, with large stands of native vegetation, are one of the better places to spot some of the seldom seen Darwin finches such as the Woodpecker, Common Cactus, and Vegetarian Finch. This afternoon, do a wet landing at Mosquera Islet, which is located between North Seymour and Baltra Island. This flat, sandy island has a large colony of sea lions. It is also an excellent site to observe shorebirds like herons and Lava Gulls. There is no trail on the islet; visitors can enjoy the open area. Most of the islet is covered with sand.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Coral II
Galapagos Islands
This morning, do a dry landing on South Plaza Island. There are two Plaza islets, North and South, located east of Santa Cruz Island. On the northern part of the Islet, visitors begin the journey along an impressive cactus forest, where colorful yellow and red land iguanas live. The population number here is around 300 animals; during the dry season they survive on fruits and flowers of the opuntia cacti. A peculiar thing to see in South Plaza is the hybrid iguana (sea and land). When reaching the highest point in the islet, tropicbirds can be seen. During the dry season from June to January, the usually greenish and yellowish vegetation changes in color, creating a bright red landscape (sesuvium edmonstonei plant). In the afternoon, do a wet landing on Santa Fe Island. Santa Fe boasts white-sand beaches surrounded by sea lion colonies. Through the island path, there is an endemic cactus forest that is home to the largest iguanas in the islands, the Santa Fe Island iguana. This island is the habitat for a number of species, including the Galápagos Hawk, Galápagos snakes, rice rats (one of the few endemic Galápagos rodents), a variety of finches, and one of the four mockingbird species of the archipelago.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Coral II
Galapagos Islands
Today, experience another dry landing - this time, on Lobos Island. Isla Lobos is approximately 20 minutes by boat from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. Once on the island, there is a half-mile trail with both a rocky section and a nice and easy sand section. There is a small population of Blue-footed Booby and Great Frigatebird nests at this site, as well as a colony of sea lions. During the boat ride, you can also see Brown Pelicans and several species of shorebirds. Later, visit the Interpretation Center, an excellent place to learn about the islands' history. The Museum of Natural History displays information about the volcanic origins of the islands, their remoteness from the continent, ocean currents, climate, the arrival of different species, and their colonization, among other points of interest. Human history is also showcased, chronologically narrating the most significant events related to the discovery and colonization of the islands. Then, take a fairly strenuous hike up to Frigatebird Hill, with steep, rocky terrain leading to magnificent views and ending at the foot of a Frigatebird colony.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Coral II
Galapagos Islands
Start the day getting your feet wet while landing on the beach from your panga (dinghy) onto San Cristobal Island. While heading to shore, take in the immensity of the stunning cliffs of Cerro Brujo. Here, enjoy simply sharing the beach with sea lions, snorkeling from the shore, or taking a walk to a hidden lagoon where it may be possible to spot Black-necked Stilts, Ruddy Turnstones, Whimbrels, and White-cheeked Pintails. In the afternoon, sea lions greet visitors landing on the beach at scenic Punta Pitt; prepare for the climb to a high point on this steep eroded tuff cone. This is the only place in the islands that offers the chance to see all three Booby species in the same place: Red-footed Boobies are perched on the Cordia lutea and small trees, Nazca boobies are on the ground near the cliff edge, and Blue-footed Boobies are a little further inland. Frigatebirds are also abundant here, and the views are breathtaking.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Coral II
Galapagos Islands
Today, visit Española Island, home to Punta Suarez and Gardner Bay. Punta Suarez is a naturalist's paradise; it offers visitors the chance to see numerous marine iguanas and sea lions and walk alongside Boobies, endemic lizards, gulls, and even the impressive blowhole known to locals as El Soplador. Española is the oldest extant island in the archipelago, and it offers the unique opportunity to encounter the endemic Waved Albatross during their breeding and nesting season between April and December. With luck, travelers can watch their complex courtship displays. After returning to the yacht for lunch, visit Gardner Bay, one of the most stunning beaches in all of Galápagos. This long, white sandy beach is lapped by turquoise waters and home to a colony of Galápagos sea lions, indifferent to the humans that walk among them. Española Mockingbirds, endemic to this particular island, are also eager to inspect and satisfy their innate curiosity. Darwin's Finches may also join the throng, including the Gray Warbler-Finch. It is also possible to enjoy a chance to snorkel here from the beach, in the shallows of the bay.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Coral II
Galapagos Islands
After breakfast, land on the beach at Punta Cormorant in Floreana Island. On arrival, take notice of the subtle green hue on the dark beach, a result of a volcanic crystal called olivine. Walk through the island's endemic Scalesia forests to a large, shallow lagoon often inhabited by vibrant pink American Flamingos. Continue through a forest of palo santo trees to arrive at a white coral sand beach and nesting area for green sea turtles. Walk barefoot in the shallow water and spot diamond stingrays and whitetip reef sharks. This beach marks the end of your trail, so head back in the direction of the olivine beach to swim or snorkel among sea turtles, reef fish, and sea lions and, on a good day, whitetip reef sharks. A small colony of penguins resides on Floreana and can sometimes be observed here as well. Next, snorkel around Devil's Crown, an eroded volcanic cone that is home to an abundance of fish and marine animals. Here, swim with schools of yellowtailed surgeonfish, salemas, and Pacific creolefish, and with luck, sea turtles, spotted eagle rays, parrotfish, and even hammerhead sharks. The eponymous jagged "crown" is a roosting area for species of Boobies, Noddies, Tropicbirds, and Frigatebirds. Nearby Champion Islet is the last remaining home of the island-endemic Floreana Mockingbird, which travelers may be lucky enough to see from the pangas. After lunch, return to the olivine beach and take a short walk inland to the famous Post Office Bay. Claimed to have been set up in 1793 by Captain James Colnett, it remains the oldest functioning "post office" in the Pacific. Whalers and fur sealers would leave addressed letters in the barrel to be picked up by homeward-bound colleagues; in the spirit of maintaining this tradition, visitors today often take letters and hand deliver them in their home countries.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Coral II
Quito
This morning, land at the pier on Santa Cruz Island to visit the highlands and have the opportunity to observe wild Galápagos giant tortoises. A short walk among these huge 600-pound reptiles also affords visitors the chance to see more highland species, especially several species of the famed Darwin's Finches. Then, travel to Baltra Airport for the flight back to the mainland. Lunch is on your own at the airport. Enjoy the afternoon in Quito at leisure before gathering for a farewell dinner at the hotel in the evening. For those departing this evening, you will be taken to Quito International Airport for your flight(s) home.
Breakfast-Dinner included
Rincon de Puembo
Departure
Today, travel to the airport for your flight home.
Breakfast- included
Land Cost

$7,445

Per person

About this price

Land cost only. Does not include round-trip airfare to and from destination.

What's Included
  • Activities and meals as mentioned in itinerary
  • Full time guide per region for the duration of your program
  • All tips
  • Galapagos National Park fees
  • INGALA card
  • Internal flights relevant to itinerary
  • Non alcoholic beverage with meals
  • Carbon Offset
What's Not Included
  • International flights
  • Items of personal nature
  • Travel Insurance
Pricing Details
Cost is based on a minimum of 15 participants in double occupancy.

Full payment of $7445.00 is due to hold space on this trip. This payment is not refundable; 100% cancellation fee.

Holbrook Travel strongly recommends the purchase of travel protection for medical emergencies while traveling and to protect your investment. Please note the purchase of Cancel for Any Reason Coverage or to exclude pre-existing conditions with Trip Cancellation coverage may require policy purchase within 10-14 days of your initial deposit, depending upon the provider.

Final payment due date: March 03, 2025

Travel Info

Print Travel Info

Entry & Exit Requirements

U.S. citizens must have a valid passport to enter Ecuador. Passports must be valid for at least six months after the date of departure.

For visits fewer than 90 days, visas will be issued upon arrival in Ecuador. Tourists may be required to provide evidence of return or onwards travel.

If you are not traveling with a U.S. passport, please check with the Embassy of Ecuador for the requirements based on your nationality.

Health Information

IMMUNIZATIONS

The Centers for Disease Control recommends that all travelers be up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccine, varicella (chicken pox) vaccine, and your yearly flu shot before every trip.

There are no vaccinations required for entry into Ecuador (unless you are traveling from Brazil, Democratic Republic of the Congo, or Uganda, in which case proof of yellow fever vaccine is required).

Though not required for entry, the CDC recommends inoculation against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid for most unvaccinated travelers to Ecuador.

Please consult your physician for additional information and recommendations based on your individual circumstances.

MALARIA

Malaria is not known to be present in Guayaquil or Quito or in the Galápagos Islands. If you are concerned about malaria prevention, please consult your physician.

Other Insect-borne Illnesses

Other insect-borne illnesses are known to occur on mainland Ecuador, including dengue fever, leishmaniasis, Zika virus, and others. The CDC recommends that travelers to Ecuador protect themselves against insect bites: Cover exposed skin with lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants and use an insect repellent containing an active ingredient like DEET or picaridin. Apply sunscreen first, followed by the repellent (preferably 20 minutes later).

As a precaution, the CDC advises women who are pregnant to consider postponing travel to any area where Zika virus transmission is ongoing.

SEA SICKNESS

If you’re prone to feeling queasy, we suggest you consult your physician for advice on the best ways to prevent motion sickness. We recommend that you avoid showering when the boat is in motion and remain cautious of activities while passing through rocky waters.

ALTITUDE SICKNESS

Upon arrival at locations of high elevation, shortness of breath and a pounding heart are normal responses to the lack of oxygen in the air. However, for some visitors, these symptoms can deteriorate into altitude sickness. Headache, extreme tiredness, dizziness, nausea, and loss of appetite are standard symptoms. Staying hydrated and well rested is important to adjust to the altitude. Avoiding heavy, fatty foods and alcohol in the days before arriving to altitude can help. Over-the-counter medications are also available to help prevent or alleviate symptoms. It’s advisable to avoid sleep medications, as they can slow breathing and respiration, which aid in getting the blood oxygenated while sleeping. Participants who take blood pressure medications should discuss this with their doctor as the medication can drop pressure too low at times.

SUN EXPOSURE

The effects of the sun can be damaging to the eyes and skin. Spending time outdoors exposes you to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, even on cloudy days. To protect yourself from the sun, use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15, protect skin with clothing, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and drink plenty of fluids.

PHYSICAL FITNESS REQUIREMENTS

Visitors to the Galápagos Islands should be in good health and capable of walking over rocky, uneven, and potentially slippery terrain. Regardless of your physical stamina, bringing a walking stick will help maintain your balance.

Respiratory Illness Protocols

Please review our Respiratory Illness Protocols page, which explains our policy and procedures if you or another traveler should develop symptoms of a respiratory illness during your trip. Your participation in a Holbrook Travel program indicates that you are in agreement with these protocols.

Resources

Print Resources

Vessels

About Coral I

About Coral II

Video: Galápagos Fitness Information

Video: Snorkeling in the Galapagos

Suggested Packing List

Everyone has personal preferences when it comes to packing; for this reason, the information below is offered as a general guide and not a definitive list. You know yourself best: Use your discretion and pack what you think will serve you, based on your personal preferences and specific itinerary.

You may find many of these items in our Gear Store.

CLOTHING

Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable for most activities. You may wish to bring a slightly nicer outfit or two (eg sundress, polo shirt) if your itinerary includes dinners out or more formal activities.

Bring enough clothing suitable for the length of your program. Pack clothing that can be worn in layers to adapt to weather changes throughout the day.

  • A combination of short-sleeved and lightweight, long-sleeved shirts for sun and mosquito protection
  • Shorts
  • Lightweight, quick-drying long pants for sun and mosquito protection
  • Undergarments
  • Sleepwear
  • Lightweight jacket or sweater/sweatshirt
  • 1-2 bathing suit(s)
  • Socks
  • Shoes – Consider your specific itinerary when choosing footwear. For most programs, you’ll likely want at least one pair of comfortable, closed-toe walking or hiking shoes suitable for forest hikes and walking over cobblestones or other uneven terrain. Sturdier hiking boots may be appropriate for more active itineraries. In addition, many participants opt for a pair of sturdy sport-strap sandals (e.g. Keens, Tevas, or similar) and/or casual flip-flops or sandals. In the Galápagos, a pair of aqua socks, reef walkers, or water shoes is recommended.
  • Lightweight rain jacket, hooded poncho, and/or windbreaker
  • Visor or wide-brimmed sun hat
  • Bandana, scarf, or neck gaiter
  • Wetsuit (shorty wetsuits are available to rent, but you may prefer your own)

Personal toiletries

Pack toiletries based on your personal preferences and habits. Below are just a few recommendations to keep in mind.

  • Shampoo, conditioner, lotion, deodorant/antiperspirant, etc. – Note: In the Galápagos, biodegradable shampoo and soap are provided onboard the boat; if you wish to bring your own, please make sure they are biodegradable to comply with conservation policies. If possible, avoid strong fragrances if you are sensitive to insect bites.
  • Soap and washcloth or a small, quick-drying microfiber towel – Washcloths are not standard in all hotels. If you normally use a washcloth, you may wish to bring one from home.
  • Hairbrush, comb, hair ties, shower cap.
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Razor
  • Ear plugs, especially if you are a light sleeper
  • Personal hygiene products
  • Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin
  • Biodegradable, reef-safe sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
  • Aloe vera gel
  • A travel pack of tissues – also useful as napkins or toilet paper if needed

In addition to your personal toiletries, it is useful to pack a small medical kit, which you can easily prepare. Helpful items might include: bandages, antihistamine, a pain reliever, motion sickness and/or altitude sickness medication (if you are prone to either), anti-diarrhea medicine, individually wrapped pre-moistened towelettes and/or hand sanitizer, antibiotic ointment, anti-fungal cream, moleskin for blisters, eye drops, tweezers, a mini sewing kit, and an extra pair of disposable contact lenses or eyeglasses if you wear them.

MISCELLANEOUS

Remember to pack valuables such as your passport, cash/credit cards, and medications in your carry-on luggage.

  • Passport and photocopies of all travel documentation
  • Personal insurance card and travel insurance information
  • Money – ATM/credit card, traveler's checks, and/or cash; small bills in good condition are recommended
  • Prescription medicines (if applicable), with a copy of the prescription
  • Yellow fever certificate (if required; only if arriving from a country where yellow fever transmission is a risk)
  • Sunglasses with strap
  • Small day pack for hikes and excursions
  • Flashlight and/or head lamp
  • Travel alarm clock or inexpensive waterproof wristwatch with alarm – Not all hotels provide alarm clocks.
  • Binoculars with lens cleaner
  • Camera and related equipment, such as charger, lenses, and extra memory cards
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Non-perishable snacks
  • Pocket knife or multipurpose tool - Pack in your checked luggage
  • Zip-top style bags – useful for packing toiletries, sorting clothing, storing damp or muddy shoes, or as a dry bag for protecting electronics
  • Notepad or travel journal and pen
  • Music or reading material for down time, long bus drives, or on the airplane, and a portable bright light to read by
  • Walking stick with rubber tip (folding or collapsible, for walking on rough and uneven terrain)
  • Swim mask/fins (snorkeling equipment is available to rent and often included for most groups)
  • A small quantity of laundry detergent if you’ll be washing clothing by hand
  • Money belt
  • Converter and adapter for electronics
  • Chargers for electronics
NOTE: There is a weight limit of 50 lbs. of checked luggage and one carry-on per person for your flight to the Galápagos Islands. Your luggage and/or carry-on may be subject to inspection by the Ecuadorian government in an effort to prevent the introduction of foreign plants and animals to the Galápagos Islands.
"This tour exceeded my expectations in every way possible. The experience was everything I had ever imagined, especially the ability to experience the archipelago's amazing wildlife up-close."
- Brian R.
Galapagos Islands , 2023
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