Discover the natural wonders of the Galapagos Islands, a haven of unique wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. Unlike traditional cruises, this land-based itinerary offers an intimate exploration of this extraordinary archipelago, using two stunning islands as your home base.
The Galapagos Islands are very much a once-in-a-lifetime destination. These equatorial islands were completely isolated for centuries and are home to huge a number of endemic species, including the giant tortoise, Galapagos penguin and Galapagos sea lion. On this land-based tour, you can explore the amazing biodiversity of these islands on daily excursions before retreating to the comfort and tranquillity of your safari camp or hotel.
Exploring two main islands, Santa Cruz with its lush highlands and intriguing wildlife, and Isabela known for its dramatic landscapes and rich ecosystems, this itinerary has been designed to cater to your preferred interests and pace. Combining guided tours and personal time, this adventure is fully flexible, allowing you to explore these wonderful islands by day and relax in comfort each evening.
Fly from London to Quito, arriving later the same day. On arrival, you're met and transferred to your hotel.
Accommodation: Hotel Patio Andaluz, 1-night
In the morning, you transfer back to Quito airport to catch the flight over to the Galapagos Islands. After passing through Galapagos immigration, you head for Santa Cruz for lunch in the highlands and a guided walk through the endemic Scalesia and Guayabillo forests.
Accommodation: Galapagos Safari Camp for a 4-nights
Following breakfast, you drive to the eastern coastline of Santa Cruz, where several endemic plant and bird species can be found. This coastline offers stunning contrasts with mangroves, white sandy beaches and black lava trails all found in this small area, as well as a flamingo lagoon. Other optional activities include kayaking and mountain biking.
For the next two days after an early start, you board a boat that carries you to one of the uninhabited islands around Santa Cruz. Possible destinations include North Seymour, Bartolomé, Santa Fe and South Plaza. Every island has a unique ecosystem, and a guide will explain the evolutionary intricacies once you are ashore. You also have the opportunity to enjoy a spot of snorkelling in the Galapagos Marine Reserve, which is the second-largest marine reserve in the world. Keep an eye out for the Galapagos green turtle and the playful Galapagos sealion before returning to camp.
Today, you have the unique experience of seeing the Galapagos Islands from the air as a light aircraft flies you over to Isabela providing amazing views of this fascinating archipelago. Arrive in time for lunch and then head off to the Tintoreras Islets, where there is a diverse range of wildlife including Galapagos penguins, white tip reef sharks and Galapagos sealions.
Accommodation: Iguana Crossing Hotel, 2-nights
Sierra Negra is a large shield volcano situated in the south-east of Isabela, and today you have the opportunity to explore this amazing natural feature. Sierra Negra is one of the most scenic volcanoes on the archipelago, and a trail around the edge of the caldera provides spectacular views of across Isabela and out to sea.
In the morning, after a leisurely breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight back to the mainland. On arrival in Quito, you're driven back to your hotel.
Accommodation: Hotel Patio Andaluz, 1-night
The morning is free to spend as you wish before being transferred to Quito airport’s international terminal to board your overnight flight back home.
Santa Cruz is home to the Charles Darwin Research Station and Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre. The island’s rocky coastline and mangrove-lined inlets are good for marine life. The lush greenery of the highlands offers a welcome contrast, with its huge craters, lava tunnels and giant tortoises roaming freely. Find Out More about {acc:title}
The volcanic slopes of the largest island in the archipelago are home to some 6,000 Galapagos tortoises. On the west coast the cold water currents produces an abundance of marine life and it is possible to snorkel with sealions. An uplifted coral reef provides brackish lagoons which are home to a variety of seabirds. Find Out More about {acc:title}
Ecuador’s capital stands at an altitude of 2,850 metres on the slopes of the active volcano of Pichincha. Founded in the 16th century on the ruins of an Inca city, the old town is very atmospheric, and several day tours are available, including the Mitad del Mundo monument on the equator. Find Out More about {acc:title}
Situated in the lush highlands of Santa Cruz, this camp allows you to enjoy the natural wonders of the Galapagos Islands from the comfort of a luxury tent. Nine en suite safari-style tents are tucked into the hillside below the main lodge overlooking the surrounding forests and the Pacific Ocean. Find Out More about Galapagos Safari Camp
The Patio Andaluz is a lovely, boutique hotel located right in the heart of the old city, and was declared a National Monument by UNESCO in 1978. It has 32 elegant rooms, each decorated with traditional woodwork and furnishings, a restaurant specialising in national and Spanish cuisine, a cava bar and a library. Find Out More about Hotel Patio Andaluz
Perched on the waterfront looking out over the beach of Puerto Villamil on Isabela, the Iguana Crossing is a small boutique hotel with an idyllic location in the Galapagos Islands. It has 14 well appointed rooms, each with a stunning view of either the Pacific Ocean or the Sierra Negra Volcano. Find Out More about Iguana Crossing Hotel
British Travel Awards
Awarded Silver in Favourite Tour Operator for Nature & Wildlife 2024 & 2025
Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards
Awarded Bronze in Best Travel Company for Wildlife & Nature Holidays 2024
