Central and South America

Galápagos Islands | Cruising the Eastern and Central Islands

aboard M/Y Tip Top IV
Duration:
11 Days
Price:
From $6,395
Interests:
Natural History
Organize This Trip Print Itinerary
M/Y Tip Top IV
Waved Albatross pair
Walking on the beach
The view of Pinnacle Rock from Bartolomé Island
Galápagos sea lion on the red sands of Rábida Island
Green-and-red marine iguana on Española Island
View of Kicker Rock (León Dormido) from San Cristóbal Island
Blue-footed Booby
Chinese Hat (Sombrero Chino)
Organize This Trip
Organize This Trip

About this trip

There are few places on Earth like the Galápagos Islands for studying natural history. Due to the archipelago’s isolated location and geological legacy, specially adapted and endemic flora and fauna abound. Journey aboard the M/Y Tip Top IV to learn about the islands while encountering the amazing species for which they are famous. As you explore the Galápagos by way of guided hikes, panga rides, and snorkeling excursions, you’ll discover a variety of landscapes and gain a deeper understanding of the wildlife, people, and places that make up this natural wonderland.
PLEASE NOTE: Cruise itineraries are 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.

Highlights

  • Observe curious and unafraid wildlife like Galápagos Penguins, Blue-footed Boobies, Sally Lightfoot crabs, land and marine iguanas, and the Waved Albatross.
  • Learn about the geological origins of formations like Pinnacle Rock, León Dormido, and Sombrero Chino.
  • Walk along the distinctive red sand beaches of Rábida Island to a saltwater lagoon where you may see American Flamingos.
  • Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station for a closer look at its important conservation and education work.
  • Enjoy opportunities for swimming and snorkeling with marine life such as Galápagos sea lions, colorful fish, sea turtles, sharks, and rays.

Activity Level 4: Moderate-Strenuous

Participants should be able to ascend or descend 80 stairs consecutively, plus walk for at least 4 hours over some steep slopes, uneven, and potentially slippery surfaces without difficulty. Physical activities typically last for 4 or more hours at a time.

 

9 Travelers

Land Cost

$6,895 - Jan 1, 2025 - Dec 31, 2026

$7,240 - Jan 1 - Dec 31, 2027

Book 8 travelers and 1 group
leader travels for free

13 Travelers

Land Cost

$7,295 - Jan 1, 2025 - Dec 31, 2026

$7,640 - Jan 1 - Dec 31, 2027

Book 12 travelers and 1 group
leader travels for free

16 Travelers

Land Cost

$6,395 - Jan 1, 2025 - Dec 31, 2026

$6,695 - Jan 1 - Dec 31, 2027

Book 15 travelers and 1 group
leader travels for free

What makes us different

Wildlife up-close

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

Support local communities

We work with local guides and organizations so your trip includes authentic cultural experiences while supporting the economy of the region

Flight arrangements

We’re a full service travel provider and are happy to assist with arranging the flights for your group if desired

Carbon offsetting

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

Marketing support and resources

We have all the tools necessary to help you plan, promote and sell your trip

Low stress travel planning

We take care of all the details so you know your trip will be smooth sailing

AND MORE!

See all the reasons why you should travel with Holbrook

What makes us different

Daily Itinerary

Print Itinerary
Quito
Day 1
Upon arrival in Quito you will be met and escorted to your hotel.
Sheraton Hotel
Quito
Day 2
This morning, take a city tour of Quito, Ecuador's capital. Surrounded by volcanoes, Quito is a unique city that boasts one of the most extensive and best-preserved historic centers of Spanish America, earning it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Lunch will be at a local restaurant to enjoy some typical Ecuadorian food. Later, travel north of the city to the equator and the Middle of the World complex to experience being in two hemispheres at the same time. Lastly, attend a lecture, "Introduction to Geology of the Galápagos Islands".
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Sheraton Hotel
Galápagos
Day 3
Fly from mainland Ecuador to Baltra Island. After boarding M/Y Tip Top IV, attend your first orientation and have a light snack. Explore the coast and the interior of North Seymour Island, a low, flat island that was uplifted from the sea by underground seismic activity. Observe Blue-footed Boobies, which nest from May to November, as well as marine iguanas, pelicans, frigatebirds, shore birds, sea lions, and the endemic palo santo trees. Return to the yacht for dinner. Each day there will be a briefing about the next day's activities, and daily opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and/or kayaking. *Note: Cruise itineraries are 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.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Tip Top IV
Galápagos
Day 4
Visit Punta Suárez on Española Island to hike along lava beds and scenic cliffs and observe the island's distinctive green and red marine iguanas, as well as sea lions, lava lizards, and colonies of marine birds. From mid March to December, this is one of the best places in the world to see the Waved Albatross, which nests almost exclusively on this island. These large and graceful flyers start to perform intricate courtship rituals in April, and by May begin nesting. Española is the oldest island in the archipelago, geologically speaking, and is also rich in plant life, with an interesting mix of flora representative of littoral, arid, and transitional zones. After lunch aboard the yacht, disembark at Gardner Bay for a walk on the beach to observe sunbathing sea lions, which inhabit the beach in great quantities during the breeding season. While exploring the beach, keep an eye out for the inquisitive, island endemic Española Mockingbird and several species of Darwin's finches. Then, take a scenic panga ride around Osborn Islet and the islets of Gardner to search for more wildlife and enjoy some swimming or snorkeling before heading back to the boat.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Tip Top IV
Galápagos
Day 5
Begin your day with a wet landing at Punta Pitt on San Cristóbal Island. The trail takes you through an olivine beach and ascends to the top of a volcanic tuff hill, passing through several natural viewpoints along the way. This is the only site in the islands where you can observe three species of boobies and two species of frigatebirds all nesting in the same area. For those who would like, there will be time to swim or snorkel at Punta Pitt Islet. Later, sail around iconic Kicker Rock (León Dormido) and its narrow channel in search of sea birds. The enormous rock formation is the remainder of a vertical tuff cone that has since become a favorite nesting place for Nazca and Blue footed Boobies and Great and Magnificent Frigatebirds. Marine life is plentiful in the waters surrounding the cliffs, so be on the lookout for sea lions, sharks, turtles, and rays. Return to the yacht for dinner and your nightly orientation.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Tip Top IV
Galápagos
Day 6
This morning, visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and Fausto Llerena Breeding Center on Santa Cruz Island. Learn about the station's important conservation and education work, and see some of the giant tortoises that are being raised for reintroduction into the wild. In the afternoon, take the bus to the highlands of Santa Cruz Island for a visit to the native forests and the Twin Craters, two formations caused by the collapse of surface material caused by underground fissures.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Tip Top IV
Galápagos
Day 7
Disembark at Santa Fé Island for the chance to see a different species of land iguana, endemic only to this island and recognizable by its paler yellow coloration. Walk by scenic cliffs and a forest of Santa Fé Opuntia cactus to observe the iguanas, along with Galápagos Hawks, Darwin's finches, Galápagos Mockingbirds, racer snakes, and more. Before going back to the boat, spend time at the beach swimming and snorkeling among sea lions. Next, sail to South Plaza Island, which is characterized by its unique and colorful vegetation. Sesuvium is a bright red succulent plant that carpets the rocks here and creates vivid photo opportunities against the deep blue of the Pacific Ocean. The taller Opuntia cacti provide food and shade for the numerous land iguanas that dig nesting burrows all over the island. Continue walking toward the sea cliffs to view many sea birds such as Red billed Tropicbirds, Galápagos Shearwaters, Swallow tailed Gulls, and Nazca and Blue footed Boobies.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Tip Top IV
Galápagos
Day 8
Visit Bartolomé Island and hike to the summit. During the hike, it's possible to observe colonies of marine iguanas and lava lizards, and on the summit you'll see an impressive view of the surrounding islands, including the eroded tuff cone of Pinnacle Rock, one of the most iconic sights in the archipelago. In the afternoon, explore Sullivan Bay, a perfect place to get a feel of the volcanic origin of the islands.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Tip Top IV
Galápagos
Day 9
Make a wet landing on Rábida Island to walk and observe marine iguanas, sea lions, Blue footed and Nazca Boobies, and Brown Pelicans. Arrive at a small saltwater lagoon where you may be able to see American Flamingos. In the afternoon, explore Chinese Hat (Sombrero Chino), a small island off the coast of Santiago Island. On the rocky shoreline, look for Galápagos Penguins, eagle rays, sea lions, and marine iguanas. This is an excellent snorkeling site, and there will be time to swim, snorkel and/or kayak for those who would like.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Tip Top IV
Puembo
Day 10
This morning explore the flamingo lagoons behind Playa Las Bachas, a beach on Santa Cruz Island that was used by the U.S. Army during World War II. (The name "Bachas" refers to two U.S. barges that were left here.) Return to the yacht and navigate to the pier, where you'll disembark at 9 am. Your guide will accompany you on the bus ride directly to the airport. Lunch is on your own at the airport. Enjoy the afternoon in Quito at leisure before gathering for a farewell dinner at the hotel this evening. For those departing this evening, you will be taken to the Quito International Airport for your flight(s) home.
Breakfast-Dinner included
Rincon de Puembo
Day 11
Today you will transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Breakfast- included
9 Travelers

Land Cost

$6,895 - Jan 1, 2025 - Dec 31, 2026

$7,240 - Jan 1 - Dec 31, 2027

Book 8 travelers and 1 group
leader travels for free

13 Travelers

Land Cost

$7,295 - Jan 1, 2025 - Dec 31, 2026

$7,640 - Jan 1 - Dec 31, 2027

Book 12 travelers and 1 group
leader travels for free

16 Travelers

Land Cost

$6,395 - Jan 1, 2025 - Dec 31, 2026

$6,695 - Jan 1 - Dec 31, 2027

Book 15 travelers and 1 group
leader travels for free

What's Included
  • Accommodations with private bathrooms
  • Activities and meals as mentioned in itinerary
  • Bottled water or water refill station during transfers
  • Carbon Offset
  • Full time guide per region for the duration of your program
  • Galapagos National Park fees
  • INGALA card
  • Internal flights relevant to itinerary
  • Non alcoholic beverage with meals
What's Not Included
  • International airfare
  • Tips
  • Travel Insurance
Pricing Details
Rates are based on double occupancy for participants.

Prices are valid for travel from Jan 1, 2025 - Dec 31, 2026. Holiday surcharges may apply.

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.

The Galápagos National Park Administration also requires travelers to complete an electronic affidavit with their travel information and a declaration of transported goods.

This affidavit may be completed up to 48 hours prior to arrival in the Galápagos. As most travelers will already be in Ecuador or en route to Ecuador during this timeframe, your guide will be able to assist you with this process. It will be helpful for you to have a smartphone or other mobile device to complete the affidavit, but if you don’t have one, your guide can help make arrangements for you to access the internet before your flight. Should you be arriving to Ecuador with more time available, you may complete the form within 48 hours of your flight at https://declaracion.abgalapagos.gob.ec.

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

Vessel

About Tip Top IV

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 the items below in the New Headings Gear Store. Use code HolbrookGuest10 for a 10% discount on your purchase.

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.
Want to subscribe to the Holbrook Explorer?
Sign up for our newsletter and get the latest updates on upcoming trips, deals, and more.
CAPTCHA
This question is for testing whether or not you are a human visitor and to prevent automated spam submissions.
You might also like one of these trips...
View All Trips to Join
View All Trips to Organize