Galapagos Encounter (7 Days)

This trip provides a great introduction to the highlights of the northern islands of this spectacular region! From Baltra, we board the M.Y. San Jose and head for Las Bachas, a haven for a plethora of birds including pelicans, frigate birds and blue-footed boobies. It is also the breeding ground for the sea turtle. We explore the volcanic craters of Rabida, complete with a lagoon and a flamingo rookery. We can also swim with fur seals on Santiago Island and, on the volcanic island of Bartolome we hike to the top for spectacular views across the islands. On Santa Cruz, you’ll visit the Charles Darwin Station and travel into the highlands to check out the amazing variety of endemic plant life. There’s also the chance to see the giant Galapagos tortoise from which the island group gets its name. For something a little different we spend our last night ashore on Santa Cruz Island in a hotel in the small village of Porto Ayora. It’s a great way to unwind and to get a feel for island life.