7 day - Santa Cruz & Charles Darwin RS + Isabela

7 days

Moderate

Explore the Galápagos Islands wonders on Santa Cruz and Isabela. See giant tortoises, snorkel with sea lions, hike volcanoes—and learn about conservation efforts in this unique ecosystem!

Dear fellow explorer,

Imagine stepping into a living laboratory of evolution, where each island is a world unto itself, teeming with unique creatures. This is the Galápagos, a place where nature’s marvels unfold before your eyes, inviting you to observe, understand, and protect.


Our journey through Santa Cruz and Isabela Islands is more than a vacation—it’s an expedition into one of our planet’s most precious ecosystems. As we walk in the footsteps of Charles Darwin, we’ll witness the delicate balance of life that inspired his theories.


On Santa Cruz, Puerto Ayora welcomes us with discovery. The Charles Darwin Research Station houses the island’s famous giant tortoises, some over a century old, carrying the Galápagos legacy in their weathered shells. Observing the meticulous care given to baby tortoises underscores the vital importance of conservation efforts.


Venturing into El Chato Giant Tortoise Reserve, we encounter these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Standing quietly, watching a tortoise slowly make its way through the lush vegetation, connects us to a time long past.


Isabela, the largest island, displays volcanic power. In Puerto Villamil, history and nature meet at the poignant Wall of Tears, a 25-meter high monument built by prisoners in the mid-20th century, reflecting humans’ complex relationship with this extraordinary environment.


Explore the Galápagos marine world in Tintoreras Bay, snorkeling with sea lions, turtles, and penguins. Our itinerary includes hiking to Sierra Negra, a world’s largest active caldera, and descending into sulfur mines with vibrant hues and rising steam. For an unforgettable experience, visit Los Túneles, a maze of lava formations with underwater tunnels and arches, where you’ll encounter sea turtles, reef sharks, and tropical fish. Remember, every step and animal encounter is part of a delicate ecosystem that needs our understanding and protection. The Galápagos Islands are a call to action, a living reminder of our planet’s responsibility. Pack curiosity, respect, and a willingness to change, gaining a new perspective on our place in nature.


Ready to answer the call of the Galápagos? Join us on this transformative journey to connect with Earth’s extraordinary place. Explore, learn, and become ambassadors for this irreplaceable treasure.


Uncover the Galápagos’ wonders with our detailed itinerary. Your imagination is the limit!

What's included?
    • Free Quito Airport transfer on the first day.
    • Mid-range Hotel: Single, twin, or double beds are available.
    • All transfers, tours, and speedboats to and from the Pier(s) and tours, as outlined in the itinerary, are included.
    • Certified Naturalist Guide by the National Park Galapagos.
    • Snorkel equipment, including a mask and fins, is included in activities.
    • 1% of the tour profit is dedicated to ocean coastal cleaning from plastics.
    Exclusions
      • Air ticket Quito – Guayaquil - Galapagos - Guayaquil - Quito (Book a flight that lands before 11 a.m.).
      • $200.00 USD Galapagos National Park entrance fee (cash only).
      • $20.00 USD Transit Control Card from (CGREG Spanish) Governing Council of the Special Regime of Galapagos (cash only) at Quito or Guayaquil Airport.
      • Travel Insurance with coverage for: health or medical, tour cancellation, loss of valuables or luggage, repatriation expenses.
      • Lunch or diner not specified in the provided itinerary (budget between $10 – $20 USD per meal and person).
      • Water taxi $1, on Santa Cruz from Pier to Speed Boat.
      • Water taxi $1, on Isabela from Speed Boat to Pier.
      • $10 Isabela Island Pier Municipal Fee. (Cash payment)
      • Water taxi $1, on Isabela from Pier to Speed Boat.
      • Water taxi $1, on Santa Cruz from Speed Boat to Pier.
      • Soft or alcoholic beverages.
      • Wetsuit ($5 short sleeve, $10 long sleeve).
      • Bank fees for credit card payment or cash transfers.
      Please note
        • All tour reservations are subject to availability, especially due to high season in December and from June until August.
        • All fees described in exclusions are cash-only payment.
        • Isabela Island is a cash-only place.
        • Santa Cruz has many ATMs.
        • Optional activities can be arranged at the site without any prior coordination from our service.
        • Extra activities recommended being arranged in advance to secure your reservation; however, last-minute bookings may result in missing out on these opportunities.
        • Extra activities can be booked prior to checkout . Please review the itinerary to determine where they align.
        What to bring
          • Long-sleeved T-shirt with sun protection SPF 50+
          • Water container (Free water dispenser at hotels)
          • Sunglasses
          • Sun Protection SPF 50+
          • Rain jacket & comfortable clothing for wet season (January to June).
            • Air temperatures:   22 - 31°C (72 - 88°F) Water temperature:   24°C (75.2°F)
          • Warm rain jacket & comfortable clothing for cold dry season (July to December).
            • Air temperatures:  19 - 27°C (66 - 81°F) Water temperatures:   17°C (62.6°F)