Itinerary H: The Evolution Trail

Monday: SANTA CRUZ ISLAND AM Flight from Guayaquil / Quito to the Galápagos Islands. BALTRA ISLAND – Baltra was a strategic military base during World War II and is now the main airport of the Galápagos Islands. Upon arrival, you will be greeted and assisted by our English-speaking naturalist guide, who will accompany you throughout your journey.

PM TORTUGA BAY BEACH – After lunch, visit Tortuga Bay, a pristine white-sand beach considered one of the most beautiful in the Galápagos. The walk to the beach takes approximately one hour along a paved and well-marked trail, where you may observe several bird species, including the famous Galápagos finches. Tortuga Bay features two beaches: the main beach, known for strong waves and surfing, and a second area with calm waters ideal for swimming. In the evening, enjoy the island’s local nightlife. Accommodation and dinner at Hotel Fernandina or similar.

Tuesday: SANTA CRUZ ISLAND – PRIMICIAS AM CHARLES DARWIN RESEARCH STATION – After breakfast, enjoy a 20-minute walk to the Charles Darwin Research Station, where you will learn about conservation efforts and observe giant tortoises at different stages of development. The station is operated by the Charles Darwin Foundation, an international non-profit organization dedicated to scientific research and conservation in the Galápagos since 1959.

PM HACIENDA PRIMICIAS – After lunch, visit Hacienda Primicias in the highlands of Santa Cruz to observe giant tortoises in their natural habitat. These impressive creatures can often be seen grazing, resting, or wallowing in mud. The area is also home to various highland bird species such as cattle egrets, mockingbirds, finches, and flycatchers. After the visit, return to the yacht. Dinner and briefing for the next day.

Wednesday: ISABELA ISLAND AM TINTORERAS – (Wet landing) Located south of Puerto Villamil, Las Tintoreras consists of a small bay with calm, turquoise waters. Here you may observe sea lions, sea turtles, marine iguanas, rays, and other marine life. A narrow lava crevice with crystal-clear water becomes accessible at low tide, where white-tip reef sharks can often be seen swimming alongside fish and sea lions. Activities include a 2 km hike and snorkeling. Lunch on board. ARNALDO TUPIZA BREEDING CENTER – Visit the tortoise breeding center, which supports captive breeding programs for giant tortoises from southern Isabela Island.

PM HUMEDALES (WETLANDS) – (Dry landing) A 30-minute walk through a diverse ecosystem of sandy beaches, rocky shores, and mangroves. This area features all four mangrove species found in the Galápagos and is an important habitat for migratory birds such as whimbrels, stilts, plovers, yellowlegs, ospreys, and terns. PLAYA DEL AMOR, TUNEL DEL ESTERO & LA PLAYITA – Perfect spots to cool off after the walk. These sheltered inlets are favorite resting and swimming areas for sea lions, and during February, nesting marine iguanas can also be seen. Please remember to maintain the recommended distance from wildlife.

Thursday: RÁBIDA – SANTA CRUZ ISLAND AM RÁBIDA ISLAND – (Wet landing) Disembark on one of the most colorful islands in the archipelago, famous for its red sand beach and volcanic landscapes. After landing, enjoy an easy hike of approximately 1 km leading to a scenic viewpoint with spectacular views. Rábida is an excellent site for birdwatching, home to several finch species, Galápagos hawks, large-billed flycatchers, and brown pelicans. Snorkeling opportunities are also available.

PM CERRO DRAGÓN (DRAGON HILL) – (Dry landing) After lunch, walk inland to a hypersaline lagoon often visited by flamingos, pintail ducks, common stilts, and other bird species. Continue to Dragon Hill for panoramic views of the bay and to observe land iguanas nesting in the area—many of which were repatriated through conservation programs led by the Charles Darwin Research Station. Dinner and briefing for the next day.

Friday: SANTA CRUZ ISLAND AM BLACK TURTLE COVE – (No landing) After breakfast, enjoy a dinghy (panga) excursion through the mangroves of Black Turtle Cove, located near Baltra. This peaceful inlet is known for its calm waters and rich marine life. While navigating the lagoons, you may observe Pacific green turtles, sea lions, and a variety of bird species feeding and nesting in the mangroves. Following the visit, transfer to Baltra Airport by bus for your return flight to Guayaquil / Quito. End of the trip.