Santa Cruz & Isabela: An 8-Day Galápagos Adventure

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before heading out to explore one of the most iconic natural highlights of the Galápagos Islands.

Begin with a scenic walk (approximately 30–45 minutes) to the stunning Tortuga Bay. This pristine beach, stretching over a kilometer of powdery white sand, is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful in the Galápagos. Surrounded by turquoise waters and untouched landscapes, it offers a true sense of serenity and connection with nature. Along the trail and on the beach, you may spot marine iguanas, seabirds, and other endemic wildlife. (We recommend bringing water and snacks, as there are no services available on-site.)

After enjoying this extraordinary setting, return to Puerto Ayora.

In the afternoon, visit the renowned Charles Darwin Research Station, a key center for conservation and scientific research in the islands. Here, you will gain fascinating insight into the unique ecosystems of the Galápagos and the efforts dedicated to preserving them.

Today, the research station continues this legacy by leading important conservation programs, including the protection and breeding of giant tortoises. It also serves as a hub for scientists, students, and volunteers from around the world, all working to support the preservation of the islands in collaboration with the Galápagos National Park. Lunch not Included

After breakfast, transfer to the Itabaca Channel for embarkation on your full-day yacht tour. Depending on availability, you will visit one of the following islands:

BARTOLOMÉ

Bartolomé is one of the youngest islands in the archipelago, covering 1.2 km². Hike to the top of its volcanic summit for one of the most iconic views in the Galápagos, including Pinnacle Rock, surrounding islands, and its two pristine beaches. Lunch on board.
In the afternoon, enjoy a wet landing on a beach (the dinghy will drop you a few meters from shore). A short walk-through shallow water leads to the beach before returning to Santa Cruz.

NORTH SEYMOUR
Noth Seymour, a small 1.9 km² island near Baltra with a maximum altitude of 28 meters, is covered in shrubland and hosts significant colonies of blue-footed boobies and swallow-tailed gulls. Enjoy a dry landing, a guided walk, and observation of the island’s unique wildlife. Lunch on board. Return to Santa Cruz for overnight stay.

SOUTH PLAZA

South Plaza Island, 0.13 km² in size with an altitude of 23 meters, is known for its red vegetation, land iguanas, sea lions, and swallow-tailed gulls. One side of the island overlooks calm waters ideal for snorkeling, while the other faces dramatic cliffs and strong surf. Lunch on board. Return to Santa Cruz for overnight stay.

SANTA FÉ
Santa Fé (Barrington), 24 km² with an altitude of 259 meters, is home to Opuntia and Palo Santo cactus forests, a colony of sea lions, ground iguanas, and lava lizards. Its lagoon is frequented by turtles, and calm waters provide excellent snorkeling opportunities. Lunch on board. Return to Santa Cruz for overnight stay.

Early in the morning, transfer to the pier for your speedboat journey to Isabela Island, the largest and one of the most pristine islands in the Galápagos Islands. Shaped by six volcanoes, Isabela is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, vast biodiversity, and peaceful atmosphere, offering a more remote and untouched experience.

Departing around 6:00 AM. navigation of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours across the archipelago.

Upon arrival, check in and take some time to relax. Lunch not Included.

In the afternoon, visit the enchanting Las Tintoreras, a group of small islets rich in wildlife and volcanic beauty. Here, you can observe white-tip reef sharks resting in clear lava channels, marine iguanas, sea lions, and even the iconic Galápagos penguins.

A perfect introduction to the wild beauty and unique ecosystems of Isabela Island.

Begin your day early with a wake-up call at 6:30 AM, followed by breakfast. At 8:00 AM, depart for an unforgettable adventure to the majestic Sierra Negra Volcano, one of the most impressive natural landmarks in the Galápagos Islands.

The journey begins with a drive through lush highland vegetation before continuing on foot. As you hike, the landscape gradually opens up, revealing one of the largest volcanic craters in the world, measuring approximately 8 km in diameter. After about 2.5 hours, you will reach the crater rim, where breathtaking panoramic views stretch across the island.

Continue along the crater’s edge toward Volcán Chico, an extraordinary area shaped by recent volcanic activity. Here, the terrain becomes truly otherworldly, with vast lava fields in striking shades of black, red, and yellow, as well as steaming fumaroles and dramatic formations. From this vantage point, enjoy spectacular views of the ocean and the northern volcanoes of Isabela.

Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by this remarkable volcanic scenery.

The hike is moderate and does not require technical skills, but a good level of fitness is recommended. Sturdy trekking shoes are essential, as the initial section can be steep and muddy, while later sections cross solid lava terrain. A waterproof jacket, windbreaker, hat, and sunscreen are highly recommended.

This experience offers a unique opportunity to witness the raw geological beauty that defines the Galápagos.

Early in the morning, transfer to the pier for your return journey by speedboat to Santa Cruz Island, departing around 6:00 AM. Enjoy the scenic navigation across the waters of the Galápagos Islands.

Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and check in.

Later, visit the stunning Las Grietas, one of the island’s hidden natural gems. This unique volcanic formation features towering lava rock walls creating a narrow canyon filled with crystal-clear water, a beautiful mix of fresh and saltwater. The calm, transparent waters make it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling, often surrounded by dramatic rock formations and peaceful scenery.

After your visit, enjoy a free afternoon to relax or explore Puerto Ayora at your leisure.

Enjoy your final breakfast in the beautiful Galápagos Islands, taking in the last moments of this unforgettable journey.

At the appropriate time, you will be transferred to the airport on Baltra Island for your departure flight.