Darwin’s Islands by Land and Sea

Welcome! Please be prepared to meet in the lobby at 5:30pm to depart for your welcome dinner. The dinner reservation time will be finalized closer to your trip date. If you plan on arriving today, we recommend flying into UIO.

Enjoy a full day discovering the vibrant capital city! The morning promises an unforgettable tour through the city's highlights. Marvel at the architectural wonders of La Compañia Church, the towers of La Basilica, and soak in the lively atmosphere of the Main Square. Then, visit a bustling local market, handpick fresh produce, and immerse yourself in a traditional cooking class. Later, relish your culinary creations in a delightful lunch. After lunch, a transfer will take you to the Equator, where you'll visit the fascinating Inti Ñan museum featuring experiments to prove that you are at the center of the world. For this day, we recommend wearing comfortable attire, walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and carrying sunscreen and a water bottle.

• Highlights of Quito

  Following a hearty breakfast, a quick 20-minute transfer will whisk you away to the historical heart of Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage site with centuries of culture and architectural splendor. Your journey begins at the Basilica del Voto Nacional, an awe-inspiring Gothic masterpiece. Explore its intricate interiors and ascend to its summits for breathtaking panoramic views. Then, you will visit the vibrant Plaza de la Independencia, also known as Plaza Grande, a bustling square steeped in history. Here, the Cathedral of Quito stands proudly, showcasing a fusion of Gothic, Baroque, and Moorish influences in its stunning facade and intricate interiors, offering a glimpse into the city's spiritual heritage. Just steps away lies La Compañía de Jesús, a true gem among Quito's churches. This Jesuit marvel captivates with its opulent Baroque style, adorned lavishly with intricate gold leaf detailing throughout its ornate interior. Wandering through these architectural wonders, the cobblestone streets and colonial buildings transport you back in time, immersing you in the city's rich past. After exploring the main attractions of the old city, a 10-minute transfer will take you to a local market, where your culinary experience will begin. Please note that this tour covers a leisurely 0.5 to 1 mile on flat cobblestone streets.

  08:00· 120 min· Quito
• Local Market Visit & Cooking Class

  Directly from Independence Square, a 10-minute transfer takes you to the vibrant Central Market of Quito, the starting point for your culinary tour. Accompanied by your guide, traverse through bustling market stalls, engaging with local vendors and discovering the rich variety of fresh produce, herbs, and spices used in Ecuadorian cuisine. During the market visit, you'll pick up the essential ingredients for our upcoming recipe. Following this, a brief 15-minute transfer leads to a local restaurant, where your cooking class will take place. This restaurant boasts a dedicated studio for cooking classes, focusing on Ecuador's most cherished dishes. Led by expert chefs, immerse yourself in a hands-on session crafting a traditional 3-course menu. Once your culinary masterpieces are ready, delight in a memorable lunch alongside your fellow travelers, relishing the flavors of your own creations. Following lunch, a 45-minute transfer will take you to the Inti Ñam museum.

  10:00· 120 min· Quito
• Inti Ñan Museum Visit

  Once you have finished your lunch, a 45-minute transfer will bring you to the Equator line, the exact point where the northern and southern hemispheres converge. Guided by your expert guide, delve into the heart of this geographical marvel by first visiting the renowned Middle of the World monument. Built in the 17th century by the French, this iconic structure stands precisely at the equatorial line, inviting you to straddle both hemispheres for an unforgettable photo opportunity. Then, a brief 15-minute walk will take you to the Inti Ñan Museum, where an array of interactive exhibits awaits. Immerse yourself in captivating displays showcasing the equator's influence on gravity, water drainage, and the enduring cultures of this region. Engage in hands-on experiments to show the equator's significance in everyday phenomena and explore indigenous artifacts that unveil the ancient reverence for this celestial line. Following the enriching museum tour, return to the hotel, granting you free time to savor dinner at your leisure. Restrooms are available at the Inti Ñan museum.

  15:00· 120 min· Quito

It's time to bid farewell to the colonial streets of Quito and embark on a journey to the wild Galapagos Archipelago. In the morning, you'll take a transfer to Quito Airport for a flight to Santa Cruz Island. Upon arrival, your first stop will be the Tortoise Reserve, offering a wonderful opportunity to marvel at the iconic giant tortoises. Later, you'll proceed to the hotel for check-in and relaxation, with free time for lunch. In the afternoon, a visit to the Darwin Research Station awaits, providing comprehensive insights into conservation efforts in the Galapagos. As night falls, immerse yourself in an authentic local market dinner experience. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and don't forget to bring a hat, sunglasses, and a refillable water bottle for your comfort. It's also advisable to have mosquito repellent on hand.

• Giant Tortoise Reserve & Trapiche Experience

  Upon arrival to Santa Cruz Island, take a 25-minute transfer from the ariport to El Manzanillo Ranch, a dedicated highland reserve aimed at preserving the habitat of the Giant Tortoise. As you arrive, the lush surroundings and rolling landscapes immediately immerse you in this conservation haven. Your visit involves a guided exploration of the reserve, led by expert naturalists who share insights into the behavior, biology, and significance of these remarkable creatures. Learn about their lifecycle, habitat requirements, and the ongoing conservation efforts aimed at protecting these gentle giants. The highlight of the tour is witnessing the Giant Tortoises in their natural environment. Rain boots are provided to wander through the reserve and witness these magnificent creatures roam freely, graze leisurely, or bathe in mud pools—a sight that captures the essence of the Galapagos' unique biodiversity. After this leisurely 2-hour walk spanning approximately 1 mile within the reserve; the next part of your journey is the Trapiche experience. Hosted at El Manzanillo ranch, this activity showcases the traditional sugar cane processing method using a 'trapiche'—a mill constructed with wooden rollers employed to extract juice from the cane. Farmers will demonstrate this process and its transformation into alcohol. The highlight? The tasting session, where you can sample these local drinks. However, please note these beverages can be potent, so savor them responsibly. Afterward, a 40-minute transfer will bring you to your hotel, allowing you free time to settle in and enjoy lunch at your leisure.

  12:00· 180 min· Santa Cruz
• Charles Darwin Research Station Visit

  In the afternoon, a short 15-minute walk brings you to the Charles Darwin Research Station—a vital hub devoted to preserving the islands' biodiversity. Knowledgeable guides share insights into ongoing conservation endeavors, including successful programs focused on giant tortoise breeding, uncovering the region's evolutionary importance. Nestled amidst lush surroundings, the station provides excellent facilities, including restrooms and a café, ensuring a comfortable and informative 1.5-hour educational tour. After the tour, you'll walk back to the hotel, allowing for some free time before the scheduled dinner.

  16:30· 90 min· Santa Cruz
• Transfer · Quito → Santa Cruz

  In the morning, a 45-minute transfer from the hotel to Quito International Airport is scheduled prior to your flight to Santa Cruz Island in the Galapagos Archipelago. Please note that your flight allows for one 7kg carry-on and one 20kg checked baggage. The flight duration is approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes. Upon arrival at Baltra airport, the visit to the Giant Tortoise Reserve will be your immediate destination from the airport.

  other · 140 min

An unforgettable day of exploration awaits in the Galapagos. Set off in the morning on a private boat to an isolated island. Upon arrival, embark on a foot exploration, encountering diverse fauna—iguanas, sea lions, and unique bird species. After the hike, dive into an exhilarating snorkeling adventure surrounded by sharks, rays, marine turtles, and vibrant tropical fish. Prepare for the adventure by bringing along swimsuits, UPF rash guards, sturdy water shoes, a hat, sunglasses, a windproof jacket, and a backpack with beach essentials like a towel, sunscreen, and water.

• Island Exploration with Hiking and Snorkeling

  After breakfast, a short transfer takes you to the port to embark on a private boat for today's exploration, which depends on weather conditions. The islands—Bartolome, North Seymour, South Plaza, or Santa Fe—will be chosen by your expert guide on-site, influencing the duration of the boat ride, ranging from 45 minutes to 2 hours. The boat, accommodating up to 16 travelers, offers indoor and outdoor spaces, restroom facilities, and refreshments like water, coffee, and tea. Upon reaching the chosen island, embark on a 1.5 to 2-mile hike, offering stunning viewpoints and opportunities to observe frigatebirds, blue-footed boobies, land iguanas, and sea lions. Please note wildlife roams freely, and sightings may vary due to the dynamic nature of the Galapagos. After the hike, return to the boat for an incredible snorkeling experience in prime reef areas. Swim alongside marine iguanas, tropical fish, marine turtles, rays, starfish, sea lions, and Galapagos penguins. Conservation guidelines require maintaining a 6ft distance from animals to protect their habitat. All necessary snorkeling gear is provided for a safe and unforgettable experience lasting about 45 minutes. Following snorkeling, enjoy a full lunch on board during the journey back to Santa Cruz Island. You'll arrive in the afternoon, leaving ample time to explore the charming town of Puerto Ayora.

  07:00· 480 min· Santa Cruz

Let's continue exploring the Galapagos Archipelago! Today, bid farewell to Santa Cruz Island and embark on a morning journey to Isabela Island. Once settled in, prepare for an adventure by taking a panga boat to the breathtaking volcanic landscapes of Tintoreras Islet. Begin with a leisurely hike across the islet, encountering a diverse array of marine iguanas. Following the hike, get ready for an exhilarating snorkeling experience among white-tipped reef sharks and a vibrant array of marine life. To make the most of your adventure, be sure to pack swimsuits, UPF rash guards, sturdy water shoes, a hat, sunglasses, a windproof jacket, and a backpack with beach essentials like a towel, sunscreen, and water.

• Tintoreras Tour

  After settling in at the hotel, a quick 10-minute transfer brings you to the pier, where a panga boat awaits for your short 15-minute journey to Tintoreras Islet. As you arrive, the striking volcanic terrain captivates with its rugged, lava-formed landscape, setting the stage for your adventure. Accompanied by an expert guide, embark on a hike across the islet, uncovering the breathtaking sight of marine iguanas sprawled across shores and rocks. These captivating creatures, boasting a spectrum of colors and sizes, bask in the sun and forage, providing an enchanting glimpse into the iconic wildlife of the Galapagos. The 1.5-mile trail winds through white sand beaches and contrasting black rock formations, offering a flat path for about 1.5 to 2 hours of exploration. After the hike, return to the boat to delve into an immersive snorkeling experience. The captain will navigate to prime reef areas for an up-close encounter with the incredible underwater wildlife. Following a safety briefing, immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters surrounding Tintoreras Islet for an unforgettable snorkeling experience. A highlight includes swimming alongside white-tipped reef sharks, a thrilling yet safe experience with these magnificent creatures. The underwater realm boasts a rich diversity of marine life, from colorful fish weaving through vibrant coral formations to playful sea lions darting by. It's important to note that while these species are not harmful and roam freely, Galapagos conservation guidelines require maintaining a strict 6ft distance from all animals, even if they approach, to uphold their natural habitat. All essential gear—masks, fins, snorkels, and life jackets for non-swimmers—is provided. This experience typically lasts about 45-minutes, depending on water conditions. Once concluded, the panga boat will take you back to Isabela port, followed by a brief 5-minute transfer to your hotel. You'll have ample time to enjoy lunch at your leisure and the rest of the day free to explore nearby beaches.

  14:00· 180 min· Isabela
• Transfer · Santa Cruz → Isabela

  Following an early breakfast and hotel check-out, a quick 15-minute transfer brings you to the pier. Board a shared speedboat—a comfortable boat with expansive windows, accommodating up to 24 travelers—for a scenic 2.5-hour cruise from Santa Cruz Island to Isabela Island. Upon arrival, a 15-minute transfer will take you to your hotel, with some free time to settle in and freshen up.

  private · 150 min

Let's take a break from the fins and boats and embark on a memorable hike to Sierra Negra Volcano. The day begins early with a transfer to the trailhead, where you'll spend the day trekking through captivating volcanic landscapes, encountering fascinating features like fumaroles and sulfur deposits. Along the trail, you'll witness these geothermal activities, adding to the adventure. Midway through the hike, enjoy a satisfying box lunch at an epic viewpoint overlooking the volcanic scenery. For this hike, it's recommended to wear sturdy hiking boots, comfortable athletic clothing, a cap, sunglasses, and carry a backpack containing the box lunch, water, sunscreen, and other essentials.

• Sierra Negra Volcano Hike

  Begin your day with an early breakfast followed by a 40-minute transfer to the trailhead. The trail winds through picturesque terrains, gradually ascending towards the rim of Sierra Negra's crater. Renowned for its captivating vistas, the hike unveils panoramic views of one of the largest craters in the archipelago, offering a surreal and breathtaking spectacle. The terrain transitions from rugged volcanic landscapes to patches of greenery, showcasing life's resilience within this unique setting. Your knowledgeable guide shares insights into the island's geological history, formation, and the intriguing flora and fauna adapted to this volcanic environment. Upon reaching the crater's edge, revel in sweeping views of the otherworldly landscape, where the volcanic caldera stretches dramatically. Throughout the hike, you'll encounter fumaroles, sulfur deposits, and geothermal activities, adding to the feast of volcanic landscapes. The return journey follows the same path, offering a different perspective of the landscape. At a scenic spot, your guide will pause for a picnic-style boxed lunch. Please carry your lunch box in your backpack, and remember there are no water refill stations along the trail, so ensure you have enough water to stay hydrated. Upon reaching the trailhead again, a transfer will bring you back to the hotel, leaving the rest of the day free for your leisure. Hike Duration: 5 hours / Hike Distance: 9.5 miles / Hike Difficulty: Moderate

  08:00· 300 min· Isabela

Before departing from Isabela Island, immerse yourself in a morning of wildlife encounters. Begin by strolling through Puerto Villamil town until you reach nearby lagoons, home to a serene colony of flamingos. From there, continue your walk to the Arnaldo Tupiza Breeding Center, a sanctuary dedicated to preserving and breeding giant tortoises. After completing the visit, return to the hotel for check-out. A short transfer will then take you to the port, where you'll board a speedboat for a cruise to Santa Cruz Island. For this day's adventures, we recommend comfortable attire, sturdy walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a water bottle.

• Transfer · Isabela → Santa Cruz

  Following hotel check-out, a quick 15-minute transfer brings you to the pier. Board a shared speedboat—a comfortable boat with expansive windows, accommodating up to 24 travelers—for a scenic 2.5-hour cruise from Isabela Island to Santa Cruz Island. Upon arrival, a 15-minute transfer will take you to your hotel, with some free time to settle in and freshen up. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure, allowing you time to have lunch at your own pace.

  private · 150 min

Our time in the Galapagos Islands draws to a close today, but the memories will endure. In the morning, a transfer will take you to the airport for your flight to Quito. Upon arrival at your Quito hotel, you'll have free time for a late lunch at your pace, and the opportunity to seize any last-minute souvenir shopping. In the evening, a transfer will take you to a local restaurant for a final dinner with your fellow travelers. For today's adventures, we recommend comfortable attire, sturdy walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a water bottle.

• Transfer · Santa Cruz → Quito

  In the morning, a 45-minute transfer from the hotel to Baltra International Airport is scheduled for your flight to Quito. Please note, that your flight allows for one 7kg carry-on and one 20kg checked baggage. The flight duration is approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes. Upon arrival at Quito airport, a 45-minute transfer will take you to the hotel, with free time for a late lunch on your own.

  140 min

All good things must come to an end, but only until your next adventure! Enjoy a final breakfast and then make your own way onward. If departing directly from the hotel, we recommend flying out of UIO.