Classic Galapagos: Central Eastern Islands (Grand Queen Beatriz)

Day 1

Quito

Upon arrival at Mariscal Sucre International Airport, you'll be transferred to your hotel, with the rest of the day free until a welcome meeting at 5/6 pm. Quito, a stunning city under Pichincha volcano, boasts a history-rich Old Town, over 30 churches, and the exquisite La Compania de Jesus, surrounded by the Andes.

Day 2

Quito- Isla San Cristobal

You will transfer to the airport for your Galapagos flight, with an early pick-up and a boxed breakfast provided. Upon arrival, join your National Park Guide and board the M/Y Grand Queen Beatriz. Later, visit Isla San Cristobal's Galapaguera of Cerro Colorado to see giant tortoises and learn about their conservation.

Day 3

Bartolome- Bahia Sullivan

Overnight, cruise to Bartolome, a volcanic wonder with Galapagos penguins and lava lizards amidst its lunar-like terrain and iconic Pinnacle Rock. Then, visit Isla Santiago to climb a volcano for stunning views and snorkel among diverse marine life. Explore James Island's unique flora and fauna, learning about its geological past.

Day 4

Isla Santiago- Espumillia Beach- Buccaneer Cove- Puerto Egas

Begin your day at Espumilla Beach in James Bay, Santiago, a favourite for beachgoers and a key nesting site for marine turtles. Observe Galapagos hawks, blue-footed boobies, and brown pelicans, amidst a backdrop of palo santo trees and striking lava formations. Visit Caleta Bucanero, famed for its pirate history and Darwin's studies, offering excellent snorkelling opportunities. Then, explore Puerto Egas' black sand beach, home to marine iguanas, sea lions, and unique tidal pools teeming with marine life, with a chance to snorkel alongside seals.

Day 5

Isla Santa Cruz- Charles Darwin Station- Santa Cruz Highlights

Today, explore Isla Santa Cruz, the Galapagos' second-largest island, and visit Puerto Ayora, its economic hub. Discover the Charles Darwin Research Station, renowned for conservation and close-up encounters with giant tortoises. Venture into the highlands, transitioning from coastal landscapes to misty, lush forests with unique flora and fauna, including endemic plants, wild tortoises, and possibly the vibrant vermillion flycatcher.

Day 6

North Seymour- Isla Mosquera

Embark on a morning trip to North Seymour, a popular Galapagos destination. Traverse its trail, observing blue-footed boobies and frigate bird colonies. Marvel at the frigate birds, notable for their large red neck pouches and impressive mating displays. Notice the unique cohabitation of boobies and frigates, with boobies nesting on the ground and frigates above. Post-walk, enjoy snorkelling among vibrant fish, reef sharks, rays, and sea lions. After lunch, relax at Mosquera, spotting Sally Lightfoot crabs and a large sea lion colony, with potential snorkelling opportunities.

Day 7

Black Turtle Cove- Cerro Dragon

Embark on a panga to Black Turtle Cove on Isla Santa Cruz's north shore, a serene red mangrove wetland. Paddle through its tranquil waters, a prime spot for observing green turtles, golden cow-nose rays, eagle rays, and Galapagos sharks, alongside abundant birdlife like yellow warblers and lava herons. Later, visit Cerro Dragon for a glimpse of land iguanas and various lagoon birds, including flamingos. The trail, monitored by the Charles Darwin Research Station, offers stunning bay views and excellent birdwatching opportunities, including Darwin's finches and Galapagos mockingbirds. The challenging path rewards with a spectacular bay vista.

Day 8

Isla Rabida- Sombrero Chino

Visit Sombrero Chino, a small islet near Santiago's southeast coast, resembling a Chinese hat from afar. Explore its fascinating geology, lava tubes, and a crescent-shaped beach bustling with sea lions and Sally Lightfoot crabs. Watch for Galapagos penguins near Santiago and enjoy snorkelling with potential penguin and shark sightings.

Next, explore Isla Rabida, known for its striking landscapes and red sand beaches. Since the removal of introduced species in 1971, its native wildlife thrives in isolation. The island's trails lead to a flamingo-populated lagoon, nesting pelicans, and other wildlife like pintail ducks and marine iguanas. Enjoy snorkelling in a vibrant cove teeming with sea stars and various fish.

Day 9

Las Bachas- Isla Baltra- Quito

On your last morning in the Galapagos, with a mid-morning flight to the mainland, start early with a visit to Las Bachas, named after World War II American Navy barges. This white, coral-sand beach on Santa Cruz Island's north shore is a Pacific green turtle nesting site and frequented by marine iguanas. Excellent for snorkelling and observing Sally Lightfoot crabs, it's also near a lagoon hosting flamingos and herons. Conclude with a return to Baltra airport for your Quito flight.

Day 10

Quito

Following breakfast, your schedule is open, allowing you to check out from your accommodation whenever you choose. If you're keen to explore more of Quito and its surroundings, consider an Urban Adventures tour. One enticing option is the Quito Market Discovery Tour, where you can immerse yourself in Ecuadorian culinary traditions, visit a local market, and take a cable car ride up Pichincha for a panoramic view of the sprawling city.