Itinerary C5 D/J

Sunday: CANAL ITABACA – YACHT FRAGATA PM CANAL ITABACA – Pick-up at 18:00. Boarding and accommodation on Yacht Fragata.

Monday: SOUTH PLAZAS ISLAND – SANTA FE ISLAND AM – SOUTH PLAZAS (Dry landing) This small island with steep cliffs was formed by uplifted lava and is now covered in Opuntia cacti. It is home to one of the largest sea lion colonies, as well as yellow and red land iguanas. You may also spot tropicbirds and swallow-tailed gulls resting on the cliffs. The characteristic plant here is Sesuvium, which turns bright red in the dry season (June–January) and greenish-yellow in the rainy months. Hike: 2.5 km Lunch on board. PM – SANTA FE (Wet landing) See colonies of sea lions, land iguanas, swallow-tailed gulls, tanning petrels, and more. A scenic trail leads into the island’s interior, where a forest of giant Opuntia cacti and palo santo trees awaits. After the hike, enjoy swimming and snorkeling. Briefing and dinner on board.

Tuesday: SAN CRISTOBAL ISLAND – LOBOS ISLAND Tuesday: SAN CRISTÓBAL – LOBOS ISLAND AM: Volcanic Wonders & Iconic Beaches LEÓN DORMIDO (Kicker Rock) – Circumnavigation (No landing). Rising dramatically from the heart of the Pacific, this colossal volcanic formation is a true masterpiece of nature. Split perfectly in two, it creates a breathtakingly narrow channel, offering an unforgettable, scenic navigation experience. CERRO BRUJO (Wet landing) Located on the north shore of San Cristóbal, this area features a stunning coral-sand beach and one of the most picturesque landscapes in the archipelago. Wildlife includes sea turtles, rays, and several species of boobies. Activities include a panga ride, beach walk, and optional swimming. Lunch on board. PM – LOBOS ISLAND (Dry landing) This island hosts one of the most important colonies of sea lions, as well as blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds. The landscape is beautiful, and it is an excellent spot for snorkeling. Return to the yacht. Dinner and briefing for the next day.

Wednesday: ESPAÑOLA ISLAND AM – SUÁREZ POINT (Dry and/or Wet landing) A wildlife paradise where you can find blue-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, marine iguanas, sea lions, Galápagos doves, and Darwin finches. From April to December, this is also the nesting site of the Waved Albatross. The famous blowhole sends water high into the air, offering a dramatic show. Hike: 3 km. Lunch on board. PM – GARDNER BAY (Wet landing) This white-sand beach hosts a playful sea lion colony. Hiking, swimming, and snorkeling are excellent here. GARDNER ISLET Opportunity to swim and snorkel among sea lions, marine turtles, and finches. OSBORN ISLET Another great site for snorkeling and swimming. Dinner and briefing on board.

Thursday: FLOREANA ISLAND – SANTA CRUZ ISLAND AM – CORMORANT POINT (Wet landing) Visit a large flamingo lagoon, where you can also spot stilts and white-cheeked pintails. The famous Green Beach owes its color to olivine crystals. A short walk leads to a white-sand beach, an important marine turtle nesting site (December–May). Hike: 2 km. DEVIL’S CROWN (No landing) This eroded volcanic crater is one of the best snorkeling sites in the Galápagos, home to multicolored fish, sharks, rays, and turtles. PM – CHARLES DARWIN STATION (SANTA CRUZ) Located in Puerto Ayora, the station is part of the Charles Darwin Foundation, dedicated to research and conservation since 1959. Here you will learn about the breeding program for giant tortoises and the natural history of the islands. End of the trip.