Itinerary C5: Eastern Islands Expedition

Friday: BALTRA – BACHAS BEACH AM Depart from Guayaquil/Quito to the Galápagos Islands. BALTRA ISLAND – This island was a strategic point during World War II. Today it is the main airport of the Galápagos, where visitors arrive and depart. Upon arrival, our English-speaking naturalist guide will assist you. Transfer by bus to the dock (5 min) to board the yacht. Welcome briefing and safety drill.

PM BACHAS BEACH – After lunch, enjoy a wet landing at Bachas Beach, located on the northern shore of Santa Cruz Island. This is one of the main nesting sites for sea turtles, and its crystal-clear waters invite you to relax and swim. Return to the yacht for dinner and the next day’s briefing. Hiking and snorkeling.

Saturday: GENOVESA ISLAND Known as Bird Island due to its enormous colonies of seabirds, Genovesa offers one of the most unforgettable wildlife experiences in the archipelago. Though the navigation is long, the natural attractions make it truly worthwhile. AM EL BARRANCO (Prince Philip’s Steps) – Dry landing. A steep, rocky trail leads to a spectacular cliffside viewpoint. Wildlife includes Palo Santo trees, Red-footed Boobies, Storm Petrels, Short-eared Owls, Galápagos Doves, and Swallow-tailed Gulls. Hike: 2 km. Snorkeling. Lunch on board.

PM DARWIN BAY – Wet landing. This stunning bay is home to large colonies of frigatebirds and a great variety of seabirds. Hiking and snorkeling. Welcome cocktail, briefing, and dinner on board.

Sunday: BARTOLOMÉ – SANTIAGO AM BARTOLOMÉ – Dry landing. Walk among lava formations and ash cones. A staircase of 375 wooden steps leads to a panoramic viewpoint overlooking Pinnacle Rock, one of the most iconic landmarks in the Galápagos. Hike: 2 km. Snorkeling with the possibility of seeing Galápagos Penguins.

PM SULLIVAN BAY (SANTIAGO ISLAND) – Wet landing. Enjoy swimming and snorkeling, often alongside sea lions and penguins. The white sand beach contrasts beautifully with the dramatic lava flows. Hiking. Briefing and dinner on board.

Monday: SOUTH PLAZAS – SANTA FE AM SOUTH PLAZAS – Dry landing. Formed by uplifted lava, this small island features steep cliffs, Opuntia cacti, one of the largest sea lion colonies, and colorful yellow-and-red land iguanas. During the dry season (June–January), the Sesuvium vegetation turns a striking red. Hike: 2.5 km. Lunch on board.

PM SANTA FE – Wet landing. Observe sea lion colonies, land iguanas, terns, petrels, and gulls. A scenic trail leads into a forest of giant Opuntia cacti and Palo Santo trees. After the hike, enjoy swimming and snorkeling. Briefing and dinner on board.

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 coast of San Cristóbal, this eroded tuff cone and its surroundings include one of the most picturesque beaches in the Galápagos. Wildlife includes sea turtles, rays, and various booby species. Panga ride, beach walk, and swimming. Lunch on board.

PM LOBOS ISLAND – Dry landing. This island hosts an important colony of sea lions, Blue-footed Boobies, and frigatebirds. It is also an excellent snorkeling site. Return to the yacht for dinner and the final briefing. --- After these visits, disembark in San Cristóbal at approximately 18:00. End of the trip.