Darwin Footsteps
Experience the beauty and wonder of the Galapagos Islands with this thirteen-day tour package. Explore the incredible wildlife and stunning landscapes of the islands, starting with a flight to Baltra Island and crossing the Itabaca Canal to Santa Cruz Island to see the magnificent giant tortoises. Journey by speedboat to the largest island, Isabela, and witness the flamingos and turtle breeding center before stopping at the bay to see the penguin colony and other marine species. Fly to San Cristobal Island to visit the Darwin Interpretation Center and dive into the waters of Tijeretas Bay. Enjoy an adventure-filled day at sea, with the chance to see hammerhead sharks and snorkel with vibrant marine life. Hike up the extinct El Junco volcano for a breathtaking view of San Cristobal Island. Finish your journey at Lobo Island, where you can swim with sea lion pups, marine iguanas, sea turtles, and spotted eagle rays. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to discover the magic of the Galapagos Islands!
- Price:
$6,525.00
4 main islands
Santa Cruz - Isabela - San Cristóbal - Española
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival into Ecuador!
Dinner provided for earlier arrival
Arrive in Guayaquil, Ecuador at any expected time. You will be met at the airport by a representative and transported to the hotel. After settling into your room, you will have a chance to talk to one of our team members for a briefing of your upcoming trip, the things you are expected to do and see throughout your excursions. If you arrive early, you will have a chance to visit El Malecón (“Pier”) and have a walk through the colonial Spanish settlement that is now at its present location. Guayaquil is the largest city in the country and the center of Ecuador’s international trade and commerce. Notable landmarks include the city’s first church, Santo Domingo (built 1548), and the colonial cathedral of San Francisco. Created a Roman Catholic diocese in 1838, Guayaquil was elevated to an archdiocese in 1956. Since the earthquake of 1942, much of the city has been rebuilt, and Guayaquil has become a major South American Pacific port. The city’s pier along the Guayas River underwent a major renovation through the creation of the Malecón 2000 Foundation, a nonprofit organization sponsored by public and private donations. The dilapidated avenue is now a modern well-kept 1.6-mile (2.5-km) river walk featuring sculptures, a museum, restaurants, movie theaters, markets, and an ecological park. Historical landmarks are still intact, such as the José Joaquín de Olmedo monument, honoring the poet and statesman, and the Moorish clock tower.
Day 2
Exploring Colonial Guayaquil
Breakfast and lunch provided
After a wonderful breakfast at the hotel, we are off to “Parque Seminario” in which you’ll get a glance of Guayaquil’s native species and surroundings in the center of the city. Also known as Parque de las Iguanas (Iguana Park) due to its great number of iguanas, it gives a tropical-like feeling to our visit. The existing park was built in the 19th century, in 1868, which had a huge eight point star, thus the reason the park was called Plaza de la Estrella (Star Square).
After this, board the bus for a trip to Parque Historico in which you’ll be surrounded by an area of over 7 acres of natural reserve. Here you’ll find sanctuary shelters of exotic species, which have been protected from illegal practices such as species trafficking; including: crocodiles, alligators, snakes, parrots, tapers, white tailed deer, spider monkeys, capybaras and many more. Urban areas that have been preserved in Parque Historico include restored 19th-century buildings like the former Territorial Bank property and the former homes of some of the city’s wealthiest families. All of these buildings were rescued from demolition, as well as the fabulous period trams. Before finishing your trip, you’ll have a chance to taste coffee right off the vine along with other medicinal plants and more…depending on the time of the year and availability
Lunch along the Guayas River on Malecon 2000, and then some free time. Evening dinner on the end of Malecon 2000 outside along the river completes your first day in Ecuador.
Day 3
Flight into the Enchanted Islands!
Breakfast and lunch provided
After an early breakfast, we head to the airport for our flight to the Galapagos Islands! We’ll arrive in Baltra Island, a former US Naval Station used during WWII that has been repurposed as an ecological airport for most of the incoming flights into the archipelago. Upon arrival, you’ll cross the “Itabaca Canal,” a beautiful strait of turquoise waters and abundant sea life between Baltra and Santa Cruz Island. After crossing, you’ll pass through the Scalesia forest on the way to the natural preserves where the giant tortoises roam freely. Prior to your encounter of the giant tortoises, an exquisite lunch will be served in one of the local ranches in the highlands of the island. Put on some boots and follow the guide to see the giant reptiles and experience the wonderful micro-climate of Santa Cruz highlands, in which you’ll find several other native and endemic species of plants and animals.
After crossing the entire island, we head to the Charles Darwin Station Center. Here you’ll encounter the breeding programs of land iguanas and giant tortoises. Enjoy the antics of the baby tortoises as they vie for ‘king of the mountain’ in their rearing enclosures. The station serves as a hub for conservation and breeding programs of the Galapagos, including the repatriation of young tortoises to their original island homes. After that, settle into your room at the hotel in town and relax before dinner.
DAY 4
Visit “Las Grietas” & “Tortuga Bay”
Breakfast and lunch provided
Today we’ll visit one of the landmarks of Santa Cruz, the world famous “Las Grietas”, also called the cracks. The unique rock formation allows filtered water from the ocean to create an emerald green water natural pool inland. Here you can see the different rock compositions and salt formations along the easy hike/walk to the entrance. After our short adventure, we head back to town to get lunch. In the afternoon we set our course to another famous spot and one of the most beautiful beaches in the archipelago, the astonishing “Tortuga Bay”. While most recent travelers describe their visits to Tortuga Bay as a highlight of their trips, some do caution that it can feel like quite a trek to get there from Santa Cruz especially in the hot sun. Also, remember that the beach closest to the bay’s entrance (Playa Brava) has strong currents, so it’s not suitable for swimming. If you want to swim, continue walking to the bay’s other beach (Playa Mansa).
DAY 5
Penguins on the Equator?!
Breakfast and lunch provided
Penguins on the Equator? Today you’ll take a speedboat to the largest island of Galapagos, the majestic Isabela. This is one of the youngest islands of the Galapagos, whose seahorse shape is formed by a series of active volcanoes. Long beaches and secluded environments, have made this island one of the most magical settings to visit in the entire archipelago. Upon arrival, you’ll have the chance to visit a colony of flamingos and the breeding center of local tortoises. After lunch, we head out in small boats (pangas) to a penguin colony. This is a chance for you to use your photography skills with the penguins and take some incredible shots of the marine wildlife! You’ll also walk through hundreds of adult and baby marine iguanas soaking up the sun along a channel jam-packed with sleeping white-tip sharks. Before leaving, you will have a chance to jump into the clear waters of the bay where you may encounter swimming penguins, marine iguanas, sea turtles, sea lions, tropical fish, eagle rays, and many other species before returning to your hotel in town.
DAY 6
Hike around the majestic Sierra Negra Volcano
Breakfast and lunch provided
We were standing on top of the Sierra Negra Volcano with a steady sprinkle of rain falling down. “Let’s take a minute of silence. Close your eyes, absorb the energy of the Galapagos Islands, and feel your surroundings,” Pablo, our naturalist guide, instructed. As we closed our eyes, a cool breeze brushed our cheeks and as though by magic, the rain came to a halt. We were connected to the land and it was powerful.
The Sierra Negra Volcano is one of five active volcanoes located on Isabela Island in the Galapagos Islands. Sierra Negra is the only volcano that visitors are allowed to hike, and it is only accessible with a guide. Hiking the volcano takes around 5-6 hours from start to finish. Even though the incline of the trail is gradual, the hike can be strenuous for some due to the distance and heat of the equatorial sun.
DAY 7
Bike around the “Wall of Tears”, tortoise breeding center and “Playa del Amor”
Breakfast and lunch provided
Get ready for some biking to the impressive “Wall of Tears.” Also known as “Muro de las Lágrimas” in Spanish, it is one of the most interesting pieces of history in human development. This historical site was constructed between 1945 and 1959 by former prisoners in the penal colony on the island, which had been established by President Velasco Ibarra in 1944, partly using infrastructure left by the US military after World War 2.
Along the trail, we will stop for some sightseeing along the beautiful beaches and caves. “Love Beach”, a mangrove forest and the local tortoise breeding center are some of the spots we will be stopping by along our bike ride.
DAY 8
Flight to the beautiful San Cristobal Island
Breakfast and lunch provided
After an early breakfast we head to the airport for a short flight to San Cristobal Island! San Cristobal is the oldest island and the administrative capital of the Galapagos. Here you’ll find a mix of cultural and ecological atmospheres where you’ll enjoy the best options this island has to offer! Upon arrival you’ll drop off your gear at your hotel and head to the town for a welcome lunch at a waterfront restaurant, then meet the agency staff and pick up your snorkeling gear before embarking with your guide to the Darwin Interpretation Center, followed by snorkeling in “Tijeretas Bay” where Darwin first stepped foot onto the islands back in 1835. A short walk through the incense tree forest (“Palo Santo”) and a quick stop at “Punta Carola Beach” you’ll check out one of biggest sea lion colonies of the entire island. If you feel like it, feel free to jump in the water with your snorkeling gear and get face to face with some amazing marine life!
Day 9
Adventure at Sea!
Breakfast and lunch provided
Prepare yourself for a day at sea! Embark early for “Kicker Rock (Leon Dormido)” aboard the spacious catamaran yacht M/C CindySol. You’ll be welcomed with a delightful breakfast as you cruise along the South-Western shores of the island for a glance at the pristine beaches and native wildlife. “Kicker” is known for being one the best spots to snorkel (or dive) with the Galapagos sharks and hammerheads and its unique geological structure also provides home to a myriad of marine invertebrates, tropical fish, sea turtles, sea lions, and an abundance of sea birds. You will have the opportunity to go snorkeling around the rock for about an hour but if you want to stay longer and spot more marine life or come back earlier, you’re welcome to do so! After you get back to the yacht, we head to one of the side beaches in the area where we’ll anchor and have a delicious lunch on board before we relax on the beach or snorkel the quiet waters.
DAY 10
El Junco Volcano Lagoon
Breakfast and lunch provided
Early birds can enjoy the sea lion colony along the Malecon (boardwalk) before breakfast, then board the bus for the “highlands.” Here you’ll climb up to the top of only fresh water lagoon in the islands, “El Junco,” named after a flowering plant that grows in the area, it’s an extinct volcano that has become the home of several species of native and endemic plants and animals. It takes a few minutes to get up to the top and enjoy the mesmerizing view of the west side of San Cristobal. Be warned that it can get cloudy and misty within minutes and at the same time it can get sunny and clear. If the conditions are right, we will go around the crater for a better view of the area. After completing the short hike, we’ll come back to the bus and head to the “Galapaguera” where we’ll visit the giant tortoise breeding center along a short hike through the facility to spot species of native and endemic birds; then come back to the bus to head to “Puerto Chino,” a beautiful beach to enjoy the hot equatorial sun where you can relax and sunbathe or go explore its surrounding area where you’ll find amazing landscapes and wildlife! Next, enjoy a wonderful lunch in the highlands at one of the ranches nearby; you’ll be able to pick fruit right off the trees and relax in one of the hammocks before we head back to town in the afternoon.
DAY 11
Swimming with Sea Lion Pups!
Breakfast and lunch provided
Don’t put away those snorkels yet, because today you will have a chance to visit Lobo Island! The island is located just a few minutes from the port. We’ll embark onto a speedboat to get there. Lobo has its name due to its large numbers of sea lions and it’s considered to be a nursery place for baby sea lions. Its special geological formation and unique location make a perfect place to snorkel with the pups, as well as other marine species such as marine iguanas, sea-turtles, spotted eagle rays and many more. After snorkeling, if the time of the year is right, expect to walk on the small island trail for a chance to spot colonies of sea birds and their chicks such as blue-footed-boobies, frigate birds, sea gulls and more. Head back on board for a relaxing time on “Ochoa Beach” where you’ll have a chance to relax and enjoy the clear turquoise waters.
DAY 12
Amazing Scenery and Bird Watching!
Breakfast and lunch provided
Early in the morning we’ll embark on a yacht towards Española Island, formerly called Hood Island, is probably the greatest island to visit in Galapagos. Featured in almost every documentary, Española boast the entire world’s mating colony of the waved albatrosses, the most strikingly beautiful marine iguanas with males touting large red patches on their sides, and colonies of Nazca boobies, blue-footed boobies, and swallow-tailed gulls. The famous “blow hole” of documentary fame, is also located here, and it is probable that you will spend a few minutes sitting on the side of the cliff with albatrosses breeding on your left, the blow hole in front of you, and marine iguanas swimming in ocean pools to your right. And watch your feet! It isn’t uncommon to find a swallow-tailed gull nest with nestlings in the rocks right next to you.
As you enjoy the sights of Española, don’t forget to look up. It is likely that you will also have a glimpse of the Galapagos hawk cruising overhead. This island truly boasts a plethora of animals that makes Galapagos unique in the world, and the antics of the sea lion residents just adds to the fun of this visit. In the past it was almost impossible to get to Espanola Island, due to the fact that only the large cruise boats had permission to visit there, but beginning in January, 2016, a few local residents will also have permission to make the trip. Located in Southeast of Galapagos, a relatively long ocean crossing is required to reach Espanola, but, trust me, the trip is well worth the trouble as the sights will stay with you for a lifetime. Just keep the Dramamine handy and enjoy the trip. You won’t be staying on the island that long, there are no people or facilities here, but the wildlife is truly incredible. Enjoy Española while you can, it is the oldest and most weathered island of Galapagos, and will soon sink below the waves as it continues its Eastward movement. In a few hundred thousand years it will probably be gone, so get there while you can. By the way, Galapagos Local is associated with one of the local agencies that can get you there, so you may well desire to make this part of your itinerary.
Day 13
Farewell
Breakfast provided
Hopefully you packed before going to bed last night for we leave right after breakfast. Depending on flight times, you may have one last chance at some wonderful Galapagos coffee or picking up that t-shirt you forgot to buy before your flight arrives. Returning to Guayaquil completes your trip and you can continue on to other places or return home, usually the same night.
Children Gratuity:
Infants or children under 2 years of age can travel on the lap of an adult for free (within the United States and Ecuador). Gratuity for infants of up to 2 years when time of trip start date.
20% discounts for children of 12 years or younger when time of trip start date.
Hotel & Accommodations:
All trips and pricing are based on ‘best value’ and ‘villa experience’ accommodation; we provide excellent lodging for double occupancy rooms. We encourage you to check our other options of stay for an enhanced experience in a once in a lifetime trip!
All package trips are set for double occupancy (double room or matrimonial room). If you need specific arrangements for your room or you have a preference, please let us know.
**If you would like to add on a ‘premium’ or ‘luxury’ accommodation, please just let us know and we will get you a quote!
BEST VALUE / VILLA EXPERIENCE (Recommended for families with kids)
Category of hotel/hostal in the islands is around a 2-3 star rating. Expect a clean room, private bathroom, hot water, clean towels and sheets, air conditioner, WIFI connection, daily room service, close location to town.
Category of home villa in the islands is around a 2-3 star rating. Expect clean rooms, private bathrooms, hot water, clean towels and sheets, air conditioner, TV and WIFI connection, daily room service, full kitchen, homey atmosphere, location near or in front of the ocean.
PREMIUM ***
Category of hotel in the islands is around a 3 star rating. Expect a clean room, private bathroom, hot water, clean towels and sheets, air conditioner, WIFI connection, daily room service, some might have swimming pools, location near or in front of the ocean.
LUXURY *****
Category of hotel in the islands is around a 4-5 star rating. Expect exquisite room accommodations, spacious bathrooms with tubs, hot water, clean towels and sheets, air conditioner, WIFI connection, 24 hour room service, bar and restaurant service, swimming pools, location in front of the ocean.
Additional
Interested in scuba diving, surfing or volunteering? You can add any activity or excursion before you trip starts, just make sure to check our ‘Services’ tab for more information!
Add a day tour of Guayaquil including the zoological park and Malecon 2000 for $195 per person, moves the return day to Day 7, Saturday ; includes extra hotel stay, food, guide, and transportation.
These prices include all charges in Ecuador from arrival at Guayaquil airport until return to Guayaquil airport except the Galapagos National Park Fee and alcoholic beverages. $100 per person discount for check or money order payments.
Are you into something specific? Customize your trip!
Remember, we can customize all itineraries if you would like to make some changes. All costs assume double occupancy or family occupancy and a minimum of 4 people.
Cancellation policy
After final payment is received, refunds will be made according to the following schedule:
- 90-60 days prior to the tour start date, 100% of the total cost of the trip minus the deposit;
- 59-41 days prior to the tour start date, 50% minus the deposit;
- 40-0 days prior to the tour start date, no refunds are possible.
However, if a replacement person is found, a full refund will be made minus a $200 (USD) change fee that we must pay to our agency for the airline change of ticket.
For daily tours, all sales are final with the date and time of the excursion.
If the trip is canceled by Galeducation S.A. or Galapagos Education L.L.C. for any reason, all payments will be completely refunded.
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