Central and South America

Galápagos Islands | Investigating Endemic Wildlife: Cruising the Eastern Route

Aboard M/C Tip Top II or V
Duration:
11 Days
Price:
From $6,395
Interests:
Natural History
Organize This Trip Print Itinerary
Blue-footed Booby
Snorkeler in the Galapagos
Galápagos Flamingo
Leon Dormido (Kicker Rock)
Lava cactus
Galápagos sea lion
Marine iguana on Española Island
Sally Lightfoot crab
Galapagos giant tortoise
Organize This Trip
Organize This Trip

About this trip

The Galápagos Islands have long intrigued outsiders with their endemic flora and fauna, geological activity, and unusual terrain. Accompanied by an onboard naturalist guide, this small-group cruise expedition offers a front-row seat for exploring the eastern islands. Stunning formations like saw-toothed Kicker Rock and Cerro Brujo, volcanic calderas, sandy beaches, and flamingo lagoons play host to iconic wildlife like Red- and Blue-footed Boobies, marine turtles, giant tortoises, iguanas, and more. With no fear of human predation, many creatures can be approached at close range; you can even swim with the sea lions. Also examine the archipelago’s dramatic human history, from 18th century whalers and pirates to its role in World War II and present-day inhabitants.
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.

Highlights

  • Explore the Opuntia cactus forest on South Plaza Island and observe colonies of land iguanas.
  • Learn about important conservation efforts at the Charles Darwin Research Station’s tortoise breeding center.
  • Walk along the lava beds of Española Island, one of the best places in the world to see the Waved Albatross.
  • Come face-to-face with sea lions, turtles, sharks, rays, and colorful fish during several snorkeling excursions.
  • Take part in a centuries-old tradition by leaving a postcard in the barrel at Post Office Bay.

Activity Level 4: Moderate-Strenuous 

This expedition cruise has a natural history focus, visiting approximately six islands (based on local conditions) to observe the archipelago’s geological, topographical, and biological diversity. You’ll also delve into Ecuador’s cultural heritage with a choice of tours from Quito. Explore by boat and small panga craft, making wet and dry landings and stopping to walk, hike, swim, snorkel, kayak, and ride dinghies. Walks and hikes traverse sandy beaches and dirt paths that can be rocky, dusty or uneven. Between November and April, temperatures range between 86˚–92˚F, with waters between 72˚– 80˚F and mostly calm seas. From May to October temperatures range between 78˚–84˚F, with frequent drizzling garua rain; and water temperatures between 64˚–70˚F and occasionally rough seas. There is one roundtrip flight between the mainland and Galapagos. The order of activities and islands visited may change based on local conditions.

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

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

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

Cultural immersion

Immerse yourself in local traditions and beliefs through authentic hands-on experiences

Cultural Discovery

Put culture in context as you discover the history and traditions of your destination

Meaningful experiences

We believe travel should be more than just a vacation – it should enrich and inspire

AND MORE!

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What makes us different

Daily Itinerary

Print Itinerary
Quito
Day 1
Upon arrival in Quito, after clearing customs and immigration, you will be met and escorted to your hotel. Arrival into Quito should be on a Wednesday for the Friday cruise departure.
Sheraton Hotel
Quito
Day 2
After breakfast, 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. 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. Before dinner 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. Transfer to the dock and board M/C Tip Top II or V, attend your first orientation, and have a light snack. Navigate by panga boat to Santa Cruz Island and prepare for a wet landing. Then proceed on foot to the flamingo lagoons located behind Playa Las Bachas, a beach 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.) Before returning to the yacht, enjoy some free time to swim or snorkel from the beach. Attend an evening presentation on the origin and evolution of the Galápagos Islands, and enjoy a welcome cocktail with the entire crew, followed by dinner. Each day there will be a briefing about the next day's activities, and daily opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and/or kayaking. *Cruise itineraries are subject to change without prior notice due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g. safety, weather, etc.) or at the discretion of the captain, guide, or the Galápagos National Park.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Tip Top II or V
Galápagos
Day 4
Today, explore Genovesa Island, a horseshoe-shaped volcanic caldera with steep cliffs surrounding a beautiful bay. After a short panga boat ride, make a wet landing on Darwin Bay's white-sand beach. Then follow a short trail along mangroves and tide pools to observe Great Frigatebirds, herons, mockingbirds, Red-footed and Nazca Boobies, shorebirds, turtles, marine iguanas, and more. Look for sea lions and tropical fish as you swim, snorkel, or kayak from the beach before returning to the yacht for lunch. In the afternoon, disembark on a rocky ledge and climb the staircase at Prince Philip's Steps (El Barranco), and then hike less than a mile to see a palo santo forest, walk on hardened lava flows, and observe the interesting lives of the birds here. Search for nesting Red-footed and Nazca Boobies, as well as Great Frigatebirds, Red-billed Tropicbirds, Galápagos Doves, Swallow-tailed Gulls, and the Galápagos Short-eared Owl. When searching for Red-footed Boobies, look up to the trees; unlike other Galápagos booby species, they prefer to do their courtship and build nests above the ground. From May to January, Nazca Boobies can be spotted courting, nesting, and raising their young. Keep an eye out for Galápagos fur seals along the rocky shores during a panga ride back to the boat. This evening, attend a presentation by your Galápagos naturalist guide.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Tip Top II or V
Galápagos
Day 5
After breakfast, disembark at a dock on South Plaza Island, which is characterized by 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. Return to the yacht for lunch, and then sail to 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. After landing on a small beach, walk by scenic cliffs and a forest of Santa Fé opuntia cactus to observe Santa Fé land iguanas, Galápagos Hawks, Darwin's finches, Galápagos Mockingbird, Galápagos racer snakes, and more. Before going back to the boat, spend time at the beach swimming and snorkeling among sea lions.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Tip Top II or V
Galápagos
Day 6
Dock at a pier in Puerto Ayora and take a bus to the misty highlands of Santa Cruz Island for a visit to the lush, green Scalesia forests surrounding Los Gemelos (The Twins) pit craters. Visit a local farm to have lunch and search for giant tortoises in the wild. Galápagos tortoises are one of the animals that contributed to Charles Darwin's understanding of natural history, and the archipelago was referred to in Spanish as the Islands of the Tortoises on early maps. Next, return to the town of Puerto Ayora and visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and Fausto Llerena Breeding Center. Learn about the station's important conservation and education work, and see some of the tortoises that are being raised for reintroduction into the wild. Return to the yacht for a naturalist presentation.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Tip Top II or V
Galápagos
Day 7
Today, explore Floreana Island, one of the few inhabited islands of the Galápagos, with a rich history of human settlement and hardship. Disembark on the beach at Post Office Bay and follow a short trail to its historic mail barrel site. In the 18th century, British whalers placed a wooden barrel here to use as an informal post office, and today, visitors continue the tradition by leaving their own postcards in the barrel. Continue to Baroness Viewpoint, named after the Baroness Eloise von Wagner, who once lived here. Enjoy the beautiful landscape and observe the ruins of her house. Return to the yacht for lunch. In the afternoon, go snorkeling at Champion Islet, considered one of the best snorkeling sites in the islands, and look for tropical fish, moray eels, starfish, sharks, sea turtles, and sea lions. Next, make a wet landing on the green beach at Floreana's Cormorant Point, then walk inland to a brackish lagoon to see American Flamingoes and shorebirds. Continue walking to La Picona, a beautiful white-sand beach that is an important nesting site for Galápagos green turtles. At the start of the year, pregnant turtles come ashore at night to dig nests and lay their eggs; by April and May the hatchlings begin to emerge from the sand and make their perilous journey to sea. Head back to the green beach to enjoy swimming and snorkeling among reef fish and sea lions.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Tip Top II or V
Galápagos
Day 8
After breakfast, visit Punta Suárez on Española Island to hike along lava beds and scenic cliffs to observe green-and-red marine iguanas, sea lions, lava lizards, and unique 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 primarily 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 endemic Española Mockingbird (a carnivorous species) and 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 II or V
Galápagos
Day 9
Have breakfast onboard, then prepare for a wet landing at Cerro Brujo, the only site in the Galápagos where it is possible to witness all three booby species nesting together. Walk along the beautiful white-sand beach to observe sea lions, pelicans, gulls, finches, mockingbirds, and boobies. Afterwards, 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 frigatebirds. Marine life is plentiful in the waters surrounding the cliffs, so be on the lookout for sea lions, sharks, turtles, and rays. After lunch on board explore Isla Lobos, where we can enjoy of blue footed boobies, frigates, sea birds, rays, and sea lions. Optional: time for those who would like to snorkel or panga ride. Return to the yacht for dinner and a nightly orientation.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Tip Top II or V
Quito
Day 10
Take one last boat ride this morning around Black Turtle Cove, a series of coves and islets surrounded by mangroves, where you can observe white-tipped reef sharks, sea turtles, spotted eagle rays, and yellow cow-nosed rays. Return to the boat and disembark at the pier to take the bus directly to the airport in Baltra for your flight to Quito. Lunch is on your own at the airport; food options will be available for purchase after passing security. Once in Quito, settle into the hotel then enjoy an afternoon at leisure before attending a farewell dinner at the hotel. If your international flight departs very late this evening/before dawn next morning, please be ready to check out of the hotel and transfer to the airport after the farewell dinner.
Breakfast-Dinner included
Rincon de Puembo
Quito
Day 11
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
  • Activities and meals as mentioned in itinerary
  • Arrival and departure transfers based on individual flight schedules
  • 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
  • Private transportation for tours and transfers
  • Snorkel gear
What's Not Included
  • International airfare
  • Items of personal nature
  • 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. and Canadian 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).

Some physicians recommend that travelers get hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines before visiting 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. According to the CDC, the estimated relative risk of malaria for U.S. travelers in Ecuador is low. If you are concerned about malaria prevention, please consult your physician.

Dengue Fever & Other Insect-borne Illnesses

Locally transmitted cases of dengue fever have been reported in Ecuador. Local transmission means that mosquitoes in the area have been infected with dengue and are spreading it to people. In addition, locally transmitted cases of chikungunya, Zika virus, and other insect-borne illnesses have previously been reported in Ecuador. The CDC recommends that travelers to Ecuador protect themselves against insect bites. 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.

Resources

Print Resources

Vessels

About M/C Tip Top II

About M/C Tip Top V

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 Buff-style headwear
  • 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
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin
  • 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.
Thank you for the wonderful trip! It was flawless, something I never exactly expect when I travel.
- Ruth H.
Costa Rica , 2021
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