Galapagos Wildlife Discovery Tour

5 Days / 4 Nights

Galapagos Wildlife Discovery - Tour Extension

Spend five days traversing three islands in the Galapagos on this wildlife discovery tour! Explore the highlights of San Cristobal, Isabela and Santa Cruz. Each island has its own distinct personality and wildlife. Discover the similarities and differences between the endemic species while moving between islands quickly and comfortably. No other five-day tour includes this many locations and activities. Hike through gorgeous terrain, swim or sunbathe on tropical beaches and snorkel with incredible sea life in turquoise waters.

Note: This is a tour extension, combine this tour with one of our full package tours.

Interpretation Center, Hike & Snorkel Tijeretas

Day 1

After a morning flight to San Cristobal Island, arrive at the hotel for an energizing lunch, introduction and short overview of the trip. Then set out for a trip to the Interpretation Center. Listen closely as expert guides describe the unique wildlife, geology natural history and social dynamics of the islands. 

With newly gained knowledge of the islands, head to Frigate Hill where many of the unique avian species of the Galapagos can be spotted. Hike over natural lava rock and learn about the Galapagos cotton, palo santo, acacia and cacti that surround the trail. Blue-footed boobies, frigate birds, pelicans and other species can also be spotted. In addition to the wildlife, this walking tour provides beautiful views of the coastline and charming town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno below us. 

Later, stop by Carola Beach for a quick dip before returning back to the hotel. Snorkel and swim with sea turtles and sea lions while watching the sunset. Then return to the hotel for a gourmet seafood dinner. 

Snorkel the Northern Coast of San Cristobal

Day 2

Today, explore the northern coast! Depending on the weekday and the Galapagos National park regulations, the trip will be to Leon Dormido (Kicker Rock), Punta Pitt or Cerro Brujo. This exploration trip will include searching the nearby coves and cliffs for sea turtles, sea lions, frigate birds, blue-footed boobies and more. 

Take advantage of the opportunity to get up close and personal with the sea lions in their favorite playground. Snorkel amongst eagle rays, golden rays, Galapagos sharks, starfish and thousands of colorful fish. The iconic hammerhead sharks might even make an appearance! 

At night, return to the hotel for a relaxed evening.

Discover Isabela's Beaches, Lagoons & Islets

Day 3

Continue to Isabela Island, the largest island in the Galapagos. This island is constantly changing and evolving due to the six shield volcanoes, rendering it one of the most volcanically active spots on the planet. 

After arrival, hike through an incredible array of coastal ecosystems. Spot giant tortoises, flamingos and other wildlife. Admire the white sand beaches, the alluring poison apple forest, dark mangroves and brackish lagoons. 

After lunch explore Tintoreras, a group of small islets filled with hidden coves and isolated beaches. Find the endemic Galapagos penguin, as well as reef sharks, sea turtles and sea lions. After a busy day of sightseeing, return to the hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Explore the Santa Cruz Highlands

Day 4

Board a speedboat early in the morning or catch an internal flight to Santa Cruz Island. Along the way, keep an eye out for whales and dolphins in the surrounding ocean. Check into El Chato Nature Reserve in the Santa Cruz Highlands, home to the giant tortoise. Hike among these fascinating gentle giants, who can live to be over 175 years old! 

Continue the hike through lava tunnels until reaching the high point of Santa Cruz. Catch sight of deep volcanic sinkholes, a forest of endemic Scalesia trees and possibly the short-eared owl. If time permits head to the Charles Darwin Research Station where local scientists rear endemic plants and animals for educational and scientific purposes. 

In the late afternoon, get ready to celebrate this once-in-a-lifetime trip with a delicious farewell dinner. Soak up the ambiance of the last night in the Galapagos with magnificent views of brightly lit ships in the bay and beyond the town. 

Transfer Out

Day 5

Unfortunately, it is time to bid farewell to the Galapagos Islands. Head to Baltra Island for your return flight to the mainland. From the mainland, catch a flight home or to your next destination in South America.