Galapagos - Central & West Islands aboard the Treasure
Galapagos - Central & West Islands aboard the Treasure
Galapagos - Central & West Islands aboard the Treasure
9 Days Starting and ending in Quito, Ecuador
Visiting: Quito, Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos Islands, Isabela Island, Galapagos Islands, Fernandina Island, Galapagos Islands, Santiago Island, Galapagos Islands, Bachas Beach Galapagos Islands
Tour operator:
Tour code:
GT6C
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
16-0
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the Galapagos Islands aboard the luxurious Treasure catamaran. This week-long expedition offers a unique opportunity to explore the central and western islands, guided by a knowledgeable naturalist. Begin your adventure in Quito, Ecuador, before flying to the Galapagos, where you'll encounter the incredible biodiversity that inspired Darwin's theory of evolution. Snorkel alongside vibrant marine life, including sea lions and white-tip reef sharks, and witness the iconic blue-footed boobies and Galapagos penguins. Visit the Fausto Llerena Breeding Centre to see giant tortoises and explore the stunning landscapes of Isabela and Fernandina Islands. With daily excursions to pristine beaches, volcanic formations, and lush mangroves, this tour promises breathtaking wildlife encounters and serene moments in nature's paradise.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Join Trip In Puembo, Quito
Location: Quito
Accommodation: Hotel Rincon de Puembo
Accommodation Name: colonial-style property with a large garden and swimming pool
Arrive in Puembo, a quiet rural neighbourhood of Quito located around 20 minutes from the airport and 45 minutes from the downtown city centre. Ecuador's mountain capital is, at 2,850m, the second highest capital in Latin America, lying in a narrow valley at the foot of the Pichincha Volcano. Arriving into the city by plane is quite spectacular as you approach over snow-capped mountains and extinct volcanoes - a window seat is recommended! You will be met on arrival at Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) by a driver to take you to this evening's hotel, where more information will be given to you about tomorrow's schedule. The hotel is a tranquil, colonial-style property with a large garden and swimming pool. It's located in the countryside suburbs of Quito, near the airport; perfect for an early start tomorrow. The hotel can help organise a taxi for you into downtown Quito if you arrive early in the day and wish to visit the city.
Day 2 : Fly To The Galapagos; See Giant Tortoises At The Fausto Llerena Breeding Centre; Board The Treasure Catamaran
Location: Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos Islands
Accommodation: Treasure of the Galapagos
Accommodation Name: Treasure Catamaran
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today transfer to the airport early for your flight to the Galapagos Islands via Guayaquil (refueling stop only, you will not disembark the plane). Lying on the Equator, 970km west of the Ecuadorean coast, the Galapagos National Park is a unique collection of islands, formed by volcanoes over hundreds of thousands of years and consisting of six main islands, 12 smaller islands, and over 40 small islets, each one supporting a distinct and unique flora and fauna, including prehistoric creatures found nowhere else on earth. This desolate and fantastic habitat was discovered in 1535 by Fray Tomas de Berlanga. Charles Darwin visited the islands on the Beagle exactly three hundred years later, in 1835. He observed the total isolation of the giant reptiles and other creatures, and this played a substantial part in his theory of evolution. Of the extraordinary animals to be found in the Galapagos many are reptiles, such as the great tortoise, large land iguanas, numerous lizards and three species of non-poisonous snakes. There are also several species of turtle, which come ashore to mate. Up to three quarters of a million seabirds flock to the islands, including a third of the world's blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds, pelicans, cormorants, albatross and petrels. Only 35cm tall, the Galapagos penguin can be seen swimming among tropical mangroves, whilst offshore it is common to see dolphins, sea lions and fur seals playing in the water. Fearless though not tame, the extraordinary wildlife is often inquisitive and the opportunities for photography are superb. The Galapagos National Park charges a visitor fee of $100 USD (subject to change), payable in cash on arrival, which funds park maintenance and supervision in the Galapagos, as well as ecological study, conservation and infrastructure development in Ecuador's other national parks. Entry fees and the funds they generate for the national park system are among measures taken by the Ecuadorian government to protect its natural heritage. At Baltra Airport, a guide will meet us to help us collect our luggage and accompany us on a short bus and a taxi boat ride across to Santa Cruz Island. This afternoon we visit the Fausto Llerena Breeding Centre, where we can observe tortoises that come from various islands of the archipelago - at Fausto Llerena they are breeding tortoises only to repopulate areas where their populations have been affected by non-native wildlife (predominantly feral dogs). One of the main attractions here is the embalmed Lonesome George - estimated to have died at between 93 and 109 years of age, Lonesome George is recognised as the last of its kind, and as a symbol of the efforts invested into conserving endangered species. After a visit to the centre, we continue to the port of Puerto Ayora, where we board our stylish and upgraded catamaran for the next week - the Treasure.
Day 3 : Snorkel With Tropical Fish At The Eden Islet; Visit Dragon Hill
Location: Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos Islands
Accommodation: Treasure of the Galapagos
Accommodation Name: Treasure of the Galapagos
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
El Eden is an appropriately-named paradisiacal tuff cone islet, just off the west coast of Santa Cruz (between Whale Bay and Dragon Hill). On the coastline we'll observe land iguanas and sea lions soaking up the sun, as well as seabirds feeding in the nearby mangrove forests. It is a perfect location for swimming activities, as the clear and calm waters allow us to snorkel alongside tropical fish, rays and two species of sharks. We also have kayaks on hand for a memorable experience. After lunch aboard, we sail to Cerro Dragon (Dragon Hill) in the northwest of Santa Cruz Island. Well known for birdwatching, including flamingos and pintail ducks, the site has also been repopulated with land iguanas, and we'll spot these on our short walk to the eponymous hill, which offers a beautiful view of the bay.
Day 4 : Sail To The Tintoreras Islets; Visit The Wetlands And Arnaldo Tupiza Breeding Centre On Isabela Island
Location: Isabela Island, Galapagos Islands
Accommodation: Treasure of the Galapagos
Accommodation Name: Treasure of the Galapagos
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The magical Tintoreras consists of several small islets off the coast of Isabela Island, and is one of the most emblematic visitor's sites of the Galapagos. Its impressive concentration of Galapagos wildlife can be admired easily on today's visit. From a viewpoint, we'll see herons on mangrove branches whilst Galapagos penguins and sea lions can be spotted on the land. Whitetip reef sharks can be found in the tidal channels, and their abundance is what gives these islets their Spanish name. Another highlight is the breeding colony with uncountable numbers of marine iguanas. After lunch aboard, we visit the Arnaldo Tupiza tortoise breeding centre, where we can see hundreds of giant Galapagos tortoises of all sizes. The vulnerable hatchlings are not gigantic at all, even smaller than the size of your hand. This project, just outside Puerto Villamil, was created to rescue the endangered populations of Isabela's southernmost volcanoes. In Puerto Villamil and the surrounding wetlands, there is the historical site called 'The Wall of Tears', a national cultural heritage place where punished prisoners were forced to build this long wall and useless wall of lava rocks. We may also have the chance to see American flamingos here. At the end of the afternoon, we have some free time to explore the village and/or its beach.
Day 5 : Walk To Moreno Point; Discover Tagus Cove
Location: Isabela Island, Galapagos Islands
Accommodation: Treasure of the Galapagos
Accommodation Name: Treasure of the Galapagos
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Landing in the north of Isabela Island, we walk to Moreno Point this morning. Located on the north coast between the volcanos of Sierra Negra and Cerro Azul, the trail runs along a solidified lava flow into a complex of coastal lagoons, where we'll find an abundance of birdlife around the lakes and mangroves. In the afternoon we enter the Bolivar Channel and navigate towards Tagus Cove. On the way, we'll see how explosive eruptions have blown out a part of the outer rims of both tuff cones, and created their characteristic horseshoe shapes and Tagus Cove. Sailors used to write the names of their vessels on the eastern cliffs of this place. A tour along the cliffs in a dinghy will give us a good chance to see the Galapagos penguin, the flightless cormorant and other sea birds. From the landing dock, it is about a 30-minute hike along the trail up to the top of the cliff from where we can view Darwin Lake; an uplifted ultra saline lake saltier than the sea, as well as several volcanos. There is graffiti on the surrounding cliffs of the cove that was written by pirates, whalers and buccaneers in past centuries.
Day 6 : Find The Flightless Cormorant On Fernandina Island; Snorkel At Vicente Roca Point
Location: Fernandina Island, Galapagos Islands
Accommodation: Treasure of the Galapagos
Accommodation Name: Treasure of the Galapagos
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning's excursion takes us to Punta Espinoza on Fernandina, the youngest of the Galapagos Islands. Witness the large colony of marine iguanas and a variety of bird life, including the unique flightless cormorant. This bird had to adjust its way of survival and perfect its skills of finding food in the ocean. Their wings, tails and feet progressively adapted for swimming. To see these birds is to witness evolution happening right in front of you. We'll tour a number of different trails and follow the path along the beach and across lava flows, for a unique opportunity to explore one of the least-visited areas of the Galapagos. While having lunch we sail to Vicente Roca point back on Isabela Island, just at the mouth of Isabela's seahorse-shape. From small panga boats we'll enter a dark cave below a spectacular arch, accompanied by roaring echoes of the waves. Just around the corner the collapsed amphitheatre of Volcan Ecuador offers another impressive view. The calmer waters of the coves are well-protected against the ocean swell and are fairly cold, but a great place for snorkelling amongst various species of shark, penguins, puffer fish and seahorses.
Day 7 : Enjoy Egas Port And Explore The Red-Sand Beaches And Sea Lion Colonies Of Rabida
Location: Santiago Island, Galapagos Islands
Accommodation: Treasure of the Galapagos
Accommodation Name: Treasure of the Galapagos
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
In the morning, we will travel to the black-sand beach of Egas Port on Santiago Island to witness the striking and fascinating giant lava formations. Very few plants have managed to survive on this island due to its harsh environment and relatively new lava flow. Take an afternoon excursion to the red sand beaches of Rabida to see a lagoon and the famous bachelor sea lion colony. This area is known for its birdlife, including pelicans, white-cheeked pintails and boobies. Explore the trails of Rabida; a short path leads to a saltwater lagoon; another trail goes past the lagoon to the interior, where the revered palo santo trees grow. When burned, the branches of this tree give off a pleasing aroma and ward off mosquitoes. Grab a snorkel and discover many species of fish and other marine life. Keep an eye out for white-tip sharks and sea lions.
Day 8 : Birdwatch At Bachas Beach; Fly Back To Quito
Location: Bachas Beach, Galapagos Islands
Accommodation: Hotel Rincon de Puembo
Accommodation Name: Hotel Rincon de Puembo
Meals Included: Breakfast
The sand at Bachas Beach is made of decomposed coral - white and soft, making it a favourite nesting site for sea turtles. Behind one of the bays there is a small brackish water lagoon, where occasionally it's possible to observe flamingos and other coastal birds, such as black-necked stilts and whimbrels. We'll also find a site of historical interest here, with two old barges that were abandoned during the Second World War, when the USA used Baltra Island as a strategic point to protect the Panama Channel. After our final visit, we'll then travel to the airport, from where you fly back to Quito and transfer to your hotel.
Day 9 : Trip Ends In Puembo, Quito
Location: Quito
Meals Included: Breakfast
The trip ends after breakfast at the hotel in Puembo, Quito. There are no activities planned today, so you are free to depart at any time. Pick-up times for your airport transfer to Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) will be re-confirmed locally. If your flight is departing later in the day, luggage storage facilities are available at the hotel. If you would like to book additional nights in Quito at the end of your stay, these can be arranged either at the hotel in Puembo, or in a hotel in downtown Quito. We recommend spending extra time in Quito, or adding to your nature-based holiday by booking our four-night Amazon extension package (trip code: AE).
What's Included
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Accommodation
Stay in a tranquil, colonial-style hotel in Quito and aboard the stylish and upgraded Treasure catamaran in the Galapagos.
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Meals
Enjoy 8 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 6 dinners during the tour.
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Guided Tours
Accompanied by a naturalist guide throughout the cruise.
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Activities
Snorkeling, kayaking, and guided walks to explore the unique wildlife and landscapes of the Galapagos Islands.
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Transfers
Airport transfers in Quito and transfers between islands in the Galapagos.
What's Not Included
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Galapagos National Park Fee
A visitor fee of $100 USD, payable in cash on arrival, is not included.
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International Flights
Flights to and from Ecuador are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Personal Expenses
Any personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
Meals
Breakfasts: 8
Lunches: 6
Dinners: 6
Mode of Transport
Begin your journey with a flight to the Galapagos Islands, followed by a short bus and taxi boat ride to Santa Cruz Island. Throughout the tour, travel aboard the Treasure of the Galapagos catamaran, providing a seamless and scenic cruise experience across the islands.
Accommodation
Stay in the tranquil Hotel Rincon de Puembo in Quito, featuring a colonial-style property with a large garden and swimming pool. In the Galapagos, enjoy a week aboard the stylish and upgraded Treasure of the Galapagos catamaran, offering a comfortable and immersive cruising experience.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of wildlife can I expect to see during the tour?
During the tour, you can expect to see a variety of wildlife including sea lions, magnificent frigatebirds, blue-footed boobies, white-tip reef sharks, Galapagos penguins, land iguanas, marine iguanas, and the unique flightless cormorant. You may also encounter giant tortoises at the Fausto Llerena Breeding Centre and the Arnaldo Tupiza tortoise breeding centre.
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What activities are included in the tour?
The tour includes a range of activities such as snorkeling with tropical fish, rays, and sharks, kayaking, birdwatching, and walking tours to explore various islands and their unique landscapes. You will also visit breeding centers for giant tortoises and explore historical sites like 'The Wall of Tears'.
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What is the significance of Lonesome George at the Fausto Llerena Breeding Centre?
Lonesome George is an embalmed tortoise recognized as the last of its kind, symbolizing the efforts invested in conserving endangered species. He is one of the main attractions at the Fausto Llerena Breeding Centre.
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What is unique about the flightless cormorant on Fernandina Island?
The flightless cormorant on Fernandina Island is unique because it has adapted to its environment by developing skills for finding food in the ocean. Its wings, tails, and feet have progressively adapted for swimming, making it a fascinating example of evolution in action.
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What can I expect to see at Bachas Beach?
At Bachas Beach, you can expect to see a white and soft sand beach made of decomposed coral, which is a favorite nesting site for sea turtles. There is also a small brackish water lagoon where you might observe flamingos and other coastal birds, such as black-necked stilts and whimbrels.
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I'm going on a walking/cycling trip-do I need to train?
It will depend on the grade and how fit you already are. Check the trip page for details of the walking or cycling grade and how far you’ll be walking/cycling each day. For moderate or challenging trips in particular we’d recommend doing some walks or cycles before you leave to build up your fitness and prepare you for the distances being covered.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
We have a wide range of ages nationalities on our small group trips and they come from all walks of life.
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Should I get travel insurance?
Yes–it is a condition of booking that you are fully insured when travelling with us
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How long has the tour company been trading?
At Explore, we're the experts in adventure travel. Our small group adventure holidays have been running since 1981. Today, Explore is one of the most trusted travel companies in the UK with over 500 trips to more than 120 countries.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
Yes, but there are no concessions for doing so, and we must have a record in your booking advising as such before the trip departs.
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Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?
Being a responsible company is a large statement, something that has to be entwined within the very fibre of a company. Discover the charities and partnerships we support as part of this at https://www.explore.co.uk/about/sustainability/charities-and-partners
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
We want to be as clear as and as honest as possible about what happens if you decide to that you no longer wish to travel on your trip. Our booking conditions have details of the costs you’ll incur when you cancel-these charges depend on how long it is before your planned departure.
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What is the accommodation like?
We choose comfortable accommodation in the best locations possible. We opt for small, local and family-run accommodation where we can, as opposed to large chain hotels. We typically use hotels that are the equivalent of European 3-star, and you’ll usually have an en suite room. Occasionally, where we want to get off the beaten trail we may stay in more basic accommodation.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Sustainability is embedded within the fibre of Explore, it emanates from the inside out. But as we enter a new decade it is clearer than ever that our world needs help, and Explore has created a sustainability strategy based on the 2015 UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Our flexible booking and safety policies mean you're protected before and during your travels with us. Receive a full refund if your trip is cancelled, transfer your trip free of charge up to 10 days before departure minus any irrocoverable costs.
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Do I need to be very fit to book with you?
All our trips require some level of active participation. This could be on a cultural trip, trek, safari, expedition or voyage. It is in the interests of all members of the group that everyone should be capable of fully participating in the activities of their chosen trip.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Final documents will include a comprehensive trip itinerary, climate and country information, budgeting and packing advice visa and passport information and details on optional activities available.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Yes on most of our trips. Most trips are based on customers sharing twin-bedded rooms. If you book a group trip as an individual, you will share a room with someone of the same sex. However, on many trips we offer the opportunity to pay a supplement to pre-book a single room, known as our single room option. On some trips a single room will be provided every night, on others it will be provided o
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Do we have to be vaccinated against Covid-19 to travel
It’s now a condition of booking a trip with us that customers should have one of the following before they travel - — Be vaccinated against COVID, having received the full recommended course, and allowing enough time for immunity to take effect. Full vaccination includes any booster required to keep the vaccine valid. — Have taken a negative test (rapid antigen or PCR) within 72hrs of departure.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Explore will only offer hotels that have specific COVID-19 protocols in place and comply with local government guidelines. We will ensure these measures include; enhanced room cleaning, ventilation, social distancing, regular cleaning and disinfection of high frequency touch points in public areas, food safety, staff re-training and minimising contact within the properties.
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Free Date Changes
Explore! allows you to make 1 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 70 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
Explore! requires a minimum deposit of 10% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of explore! charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 41 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.
At 27 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.
At 13 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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