Classic Galapagos: Quito and Southeast Galapagos Islands on Isabela II Yacht

Upon your arrival at Quito International airport, a representative from our organization warmly greets you. We accompany you to your hotel, providing a brief but informative overview of Quito and the country, including valuable insights you need to know.

Quito, the capital of Ecuador, nestles on the slopes of the formidable Pichincha volcano within the Guayllabamba river basin. Its Old Town is a major highlight, celebrated as one of the most meticulously preserved in Latin America and recognized as the inaugural UNESCO World Heritage Site. Immerse yourself in the charm of ancient, colorful streets; explore magnificent historic churches; or indulge in an afternoon of exploration at the lively markets, where you can discover the rich traditions of Ecuadorian Sierra culture. With numerous picturesque public parks and a burgeoning culinary scene, Quito offers all visitors a vibrant and diverse experience.

Overnight: Casa Gangotena Boutique Hotel, Luxury room.

Experience Quito through the eyes of its locals with our Live Quito Like a Local tour. This full-day adventure in the UNESCO World Heritage city will immerse you in its rich culture and history.

Begin your exploration from the Panecillo, a hill offering panoramic views of Quito, crowned by the iconic aluminum statue of the Virgin of Quito. Delve into the past as you discover the site of a former Sun Temple and enjoy breathtaking 360-degree city vistas.

Next, journey through the historic San Roque neighborhood, where you’ll witness the vibrant daily life of locals. Explore bustling markets, visit a traditional healer, and meander through cobblestone streets lined with artisanal shops.

Step into Independence Square, the heart of Quito, where history and folklore intertwine. Marvel at architectural wonders such as the Presidential Palace, Archbishop’s Palace, Cathedral of Quito, and Municipal Palace. Enter the ornate La Compañía Church, adorned in gold leaf, and uncover the secrets of the San Francisco Church and Monastery.

Continue your cultural odyssey with a visit to Casa del Alabado Museum, showcasing a fascinating collection of archaeological artifacts dating back to 4,000 B.C. Wander along La Ronda Street, known for its bohemian charm and artisanal stores.

Indulge your senses with a chocolate tasting at Chez Tiff, followed by a sumptuous lunch at Casa Gangotena, where you’ll savor fine Ecuadorian cuisine.

Join us for a day filled with unforgettable experiences, as you truly Live Quito Like a Local.

Overnight at Casa Gangotena Boutique Hotel.  Luxury room.

Upon landing on Baltra Island by plane in the morning, we will transfer to the nearby pier to board the Isabela II Yacht. During this time, we attend a welcome briefing, participate in an emergency drill, and enjoy lunch.

Las Bachas, a beautiful visitor site on Santa Cruz Island’s north coast, awaits us. A glorious white beach and a couple of brackish lagoons lie just steps from the sea, serving as feeding grounds for various wading birds, from royal lapwings to flamingos. Upon returning to the ship, we settle in with a briefing on the next day’s expedition plan and indulge in a delicious dinner.

Overnight: Yacht Isabela II

Our journey leads us to Punta Pitt, situated on the island’s eastern tip. As we land, the trail ascending from the beach unveils breathtaking vistas of the coastline. This site holds a unique distinction as the only place in Galapagos where all three species of boobies coexist, alongside two species of frigatebirds and a colony of solitary sea lions. Weather permitting, guests could engage in activities such as swimming, kayaking, snorkeling from the beach, or taking a panga ride.

Upon disembarking in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, we will embark on a scenic 40-minute drive to the south coast of the island. Here lies Galapaguera Cerro Colorado, the breeding center for endangered giant tortoises nestled within a captivating deciduous forest. This habitat is rich in biodiversity, hosting numerous bird species including the San Cristóbal mockingbird, as well as the endemic San Cristóbal lava lizard.

Overnight: Yacht Isabela II

In the morning, we disembark on the pristine white coral beach of Gardner Bay. A stroll allows us to observe the fascinating array of wildlife, including sea lions, mockingbirds, and finches, or simply relax on the beach. The area offers excellent snorkeling opportunities, with options for kayaking, panga rides, or glass-bottom boat excursions. The crystalline waters gently caressing the white-sand shores of the bay create a mesmerizing sight.

Following lunch on board, our afternoon excursion at Punta Suarez leads us along an exhilarating trail that traverses lava and rocky terrain. Along the way, guests will encounter unique colonies of seabirds, including majestic albatrosses, boobies, swallow-tailed gulls, and the renowned water geyser, El Soplador. This island is also renowned for its abundance of large and colorful marine iguanas.

Overnight: Yacht Isabela II

In the morning, we disembark on the olive-sand beach of Punta Cormorant, offering an effortless stroll to a brackish water lagoon teeming with bird species, including the captivating American flamingos. On the opposite side of the island, a pristine white sand beach awaits, serving as a nesting site for sea turtles during the night. At Champion Islet, guests have the option to engage in snorkeling, panga rides, or enjoy the underwater scenery through our glass-bottom boat.

Following lunch, we arrive at Post Office Bay to explore the historic barrel, which has functioned as an informal post office in the archipelago for over two centuries. Guests can then immerse themselves in the vibrant marine life through snorkeling adventures off the beach.

Overnight: Yacht Isabela II

In the morning, we embark on a journey through the mangroves in pursuit of sea turtles. Our first stop is Punta Moreno, nestled amidst the imposing backdrop of Isabela Island’s six giant volcanoes, some of which remain active. As we venture along the rugged trail stretching inland from the coast, we are treated to awe-inspiring vistas of unique lava formations, pioneering lava cacti, and exotic scalesia trees. Wildlife abounds, with sightings of Galapagos penguins, flightless cormorants, pelicans, herons, sea lions, marine iguanas, and numerous Sally Lightfoot crabs. Following the excursion, we return to our glass-bottom boats or partake in snorkeling activities.

In the afternoon, our exploration continues at Mangle Point on the coast of Fernandina Island, aboard our pangas. This region boasts the youngest ecosystem in the archipelago, where little Galapagos penguins and green-eyed flightless cormorants find sanctuary amidst the black rocks of the shoreline. Beneath the waves, rays and sea turtles gracefully glide. The nutrient-rich waters of the Bolívar Channel, separating Fernandina Island from Isabela Island, attract dolphins and whales, offering a chance encounter if fortune smiles upon us. Depending on sea conditions, we conclude our visit with snorkeling adventures and a glass-bottom boat excursion, unveiling the mangrove-rich and rocky shores adorned with vibrant lava cacti.

Overnight: Yacht Isabela II

Embark on a captivating Panga ride to reach the enchanting Eden Islet, nestled off the shores of Santa Cruz. Here, a splendid opportunity awaits to observe the fascinating blue-footed boobies, graceful reef sharks, and majestic frigatebirds. Immerse yourself in the underwater wonders through snorkeling or a mesmerizing glass-bottom boat ride, weather permitting. The volcanic landscape surrounding this area adds a dramatic touch, enhancing the overall awe-inspiring ambiance.

We have saved one of the best visitor sites in the archipelago for last: North Seymour Island. In the afternoon, we will disembark for a walk along the coast and inland of this beautiful flat island. Guests will have the chance to witness numerous frigatebird nests, as well as encounter land iguanas and colonies of sea lions along the coast. A panga ride along the coastline in search of sea lions and an enjoyable snorkeling session round off the day’s activities. As the evening sets in, we gather for an informative briefing, followed by a farewell cocktail and dinner.

Overnight: Yacht Isabela II

As our journey on the Isabella II comes to an end, we arrive at Baltra Island, the airport island.  After bidding farewell to your fellow travelers and new friends from the yacht, a transfer will take you to Finch Bay Hotel where you have the time to soak in the beauty of the Galapagos Islands and enjoy the amenities offered at Finch Bay Hotel.

Overnight: Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel

Our representative will meet you at the hotel lobby for a transfer to the Baltra Airport and a flight back to Quito where you connect with your flight back home.

Note: Galapagos Itineraries are subject to change due to weather, logistical, Galapagos Park regulations or operational reasons