Portada 12 Days 3 Islands Galapagos

12 Days 3 Enchanted Islands Galapagos

Embark on an incredible 12-day journey to the Galapagos Islands.

Starting at:

$8,500

/ Person

Customizable private tour with flexible start date

12 DAYS / 11 NIGHTS

Where you’ll explore the captivating wonders of Santa Cruz, Isabela, and San Cristobal Islands, as well as venture to the enigmatic uninhabited islands.

Overview

Begin your adventure on Santa Cruz Island, immersing yourself in the heart of the archipelago. Encounter iconic Galapagos tortoises in their natural habitat, visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn about conservation efforts. Next, cap off your trip with an unforgettable experience on uninhabited islands, reveling in untouched natural beauty, secluded beaches, and the enchantment of the Galapagos. Then, set sail to Isabela Island, a volcanic paradise boasting stunning landscapes and unique wildlife. Hike Sierra Negra volcano and indulge in snorkeling sessions alongside marine iguanas and penguins.

Overview 12 Days 3 Islands Galapagos

Finally, head to San Cristobal Island, where pristine beaches and remarkable wildlife await. Explore the Galapaguera de Cerro Colorado, swim with sea lions.Throughout your journey, expert guides will share their knowledge, ensuring a truly immersive and awe-inspiring exploration of this unique and biodiverse archipelago.

Highlights

Darwin’s Playground: Exploring the Galapagos Islands’ Unique Ecosystems

Santa Cruz: Discover the Enchanting Heart of the Galapagos

Isabela Island: Volcanic Wonders and Marine Marvels

San Cristobal Island: Pristine Beaches and Remarkable Wildlife

Charles Darwin Research Station: Learn about Conservation Efforts and Endangered Species

Land and Sea Exploration: Hiking, Biking, and Kayaking in the Galapagos

Galapagos Wildlife Encounters: Penguins, Sea Lions, Marine Iguanas, and More!

Untouched Paradise: Exploring the Enigmatic Charms of Galapagos’ Uninhabited Island

Days

WELCOME TO SANTA CRUZ ISLAND: HIGHLANDS & CHARLES DARWIN RESEARCH STATION

Day 1 12 Days 3 Islands Galapagos

After arriving at Baltra Airport, a local guide will pick you up. On the way to Puerto Ayora, stop off at a local farm in the highlands, where there are dozens of giant tortoises. Wander around on your own to appreciate these majestic creatures. Then, enjoy lunch before continuing to your destination.

In the afternoon, visit the Charles Darwin Research Station. Witness firsthand the work of international scientists who come to the Galápagos to carry out environmental projects. Head to the nearby Fausto Llerena Breeding Center, where giant Galápagos tortoises breed and are cared for. This is the best place on the islands to see different tortoise species and learn about each one.

BAY TOUR OF SANTA CRUZ ISLAND & AFTERNOON KAYAKING ADVENTURE IN TORTUGA BAY

Day 2 12 Days 3 Islands Galapagos

In the morning, take a tour on a small boat to visit places along the bay of Santa Cruz. Visit one or more sites, depending on how much time you have. First, stop at the small islet of La Lobería, where you can snorkel around sea lions and tropical fish. Afterward, head to the Shark Channel, where you may spot harmless whitetip sharks and blue-footed boobies. Here, you’ll also come upon the Canal del Amor, where you may find sea turtles and many tropical fish varieties. A 10-minute walk will give you the chance of seeing marine iguanas in their natural habitat—you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take pictures!

In the afternoon, begin your kayaking adventure with a 45-minute hike from Puerto Ayora to the heavenly Tortuga Bay, famed for its soft coral sand and spectacular scenery. Take a kayak out onto the water to see marine life up close, and admire the coastline from a different perspective—observing colonies of marine iguanas and marine birds, as well as mangroves, cacti forests, and fascinating flora. Pelicans and finches are local to the area, and near the salt lagoon that backs onto the mangroves, you even may spot flamingos wandering. After kayaking at the nearby cove, sunbathe on the beach before returning to Puerto Ayora.

CYCLING AT CERRO MESA RESERVA & SNORKELING AT GARRAPATERO BEACH

Day 3 12 Days 3 Islands Galapagos

Get ready for a day filled with natural beauty and adventure as you explore the stunning Garrapatero Beach on this eco-day trip from Puerto Ayora. Begin your day with a satisfying breakfast at the hotel before getting picked up for your fun-filled day.

Embark on a scenic bike ride across Santa Cruz Island, taking in the breathtaking views. The ride leads you to the protected Cerro Mesa Ecological Reserve, where you can enjoy a guided nature walk. Take in the magnificent vistas of the island from a lookout point, and appreciate the native flora and fauna that thrive in this reserve.

After your nature walk, indulge in a scrumptious lunch, included in the package. Then, head to the pristine white sand beaches of Garrapatero. Take in the beautiful surroundings and relax with a waterfront picnic. You can also choose to explore the serene, unspoiled landscape on an optional kayak ride or snorkel with the birds, including flamingos and mallards.

With its stunning landscape surrounded by mangroves, Garrapatero Beach offers a perfect opportunity to explore native and endemic flora and fauna. After a day of adventure, return to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

EXPERIENCE THE PRISTINE BEAUTY OF GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS: DISCOVERING AN UNINHABITED ISLAND

Day 4 12 Days 3 Islands Galapagos

Embark on an unforgettable adventure to explore the stunning beauty of the Galápagos Islands, home to some of the world’s most unique and diverse wildlife. During your tour, you’ll have a chance to visit Santa Fé, South Plaza, Bartolomé, or North Seymour, depending on the permit granted by the National Park authorities for that daily activity.

As you set sail on your boat, be prepared to witness the awe-inspiring views of the turquoise waters and rocky shorelines of the archipelago. Your expert guide will accompany you on a hike to explore the untouched natural habitats of the islands, where you’ll discover an array of exotic flora and fauna.

The Galápagos Islands are a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, with a diverse range of species that inhabit the land and sea. Keep an eye out for giant tortoises, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and many other fascinating creatures.

After a morning of exploration, take a break on the deck for a scrumptious lunch, before continuing on your adventure. Relax on the pristine beaches and soak up the sun, or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters for a refreshing swim.

At the end of your tour, return to Puerto Ayora, feeling invigorated and inspired by the natural wonders of the Galápagos Islands.

ANOTHER DAY, ANOTHER UNINHABITED ISLAND

Day 5 12 Days 3 Islands Galapagos

Another day, another boat trip to an uninhabited island—this time, to a different one than before. Once again, you’ll get incredible opportunities to see endemic wildlife in its natural habitat and protected lands. The boat trip itself is also a joy to do, as you get some magnificent ocean scenery.

Afterward, enjoy your evening in the laid-back town of Puerto Ayora.

SPEEDBOAT TO ISABELA ISLAND & WILDLIFE ON LAS TINTORERAS ISLET

Day 6 12 Days 3 Islands Galapagos

Start your morning with a two-hour public speed boat trip to Isabela Island. After arriving, make your way to the Flamingo Lagoon or the Giant Tortoise Breeding Station to learn about the local wildlife.

After lunch, join a group tour for a visit to the Tintoreras Islet for a short hike and some snorkeling. Here you can see Humboldt penguins, marine iguanas, sea lions, and sharks, which rest in the natural channels formed by lava flows.

Afterward, snorkel in the turquoise water and spot different fish, sea turtles, rays, and penguins. The rest of your evening is free, with an overnight stay on Isabela Island.

HIKING THE SIERRA NEGRA VOLCANO

Day 7 12 Days 3 Islands Galapagos

Our adventure starts with a journey from Puerto Villamil to the beginning of the trail. Once there, we will prepare our backpacks and start our walk through the relatively young woods, which suffer from constant geological changes.

You’ll do a six-hour roundtrip hike to its summit, from where you’ll get to see the second-largest volcanic crater in the world. Walk around spectacular lava landscapes, taking in the northern volcanoes in Isabela and Fernandina Islands.
During your climb, make sure to be on the lookout for the unique vegetation that inhabits the area.

Your finishing point is the edge of the Sierra Negra Volcano’s crater, this volcano is still active. Once at the edge of the crater, you will have spectacular views of the crater and the volcanoes that surround it. The circumference of the crater is huge, with a diameter of almost 10 km along with its widest point.

You’ll have some free time after you get back to Isabela Island. If you still have energy, you can head to a beach or snorkel at Concha Perla.

WILDLIFE ENCOUNTER AT LOS TUNELES (CABO ROSA)

Day 8 12 Days 3 Islands Galapagos

Prepare to be amazed by an unforgettable wildlife encounter during your thrilling excursion to Los Tuneles.

This perfect snorkeling spot is located in the Cabo Rosa lava tunnels, locally known as «Los Tuneles.» To reach this magnificent destination, you will board a speedboat at the dock in Puerto Villamil, embarking on an approximate one-hour journey.

As you approach the lava flows, you will notice unique geological formations that have been created by the series of lava flows, including arcs and tunnels underneath and above the water. These formations make Los Tuneles an exceptional place to swim around.

Once you reach the shallow waters, you’ll be in for a treat. You can expect to encounter a diverse range of marine life in the shallow waters. Keep your eyes peeled for tropical fish, rays, turtles, sea horses, and white-tipped reef sharks. And if you’re lucky, you might even swim alongside majestic sea turtles. The area is teeming with tropical fish, rays, turtles, sea horses, and white-tipped reef sharks. Keep your eyes peeled for penguins sitting on the rocks and prepare yourself for the possibility of swimming with majestic sea turtles.

Overall, Los Tuneles promises to be a mesmerizing experience that will leave you in awe of the natural world.

SPEEDBOAT TO SAN CRISTOBAL ISLAND & LEISURE AFTERNOON

Day 9 12 Days 3 Islands GalapagosDay 9 12 Days 3 Islands Galapagos

This morning, you will take the public speedboat from Santa Cruz to San Cristobal (approx. 2-2,5 hours). After arriving and checking in to your hotel, you will have time to relax on the beautiful beaches. In the afternoon you return to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno where you will spend another night.

DISCOVERING THE HIGHLANDS OF SAN CRISTOBAL

Day 10 12 Days 3 Islands Galapagos

After breakfast in your hotel, you will be picked up by our local guide to explore the highlands of the beautiful San Cristobal Islands; you will be located on the easternmost island of the Galapagos archipelago and it is not only rich in fauna but also in history.

On the agenda, you will have the opportunity to visit the highlands of San Cristobal, El Junco Lagoon, and La Galapaguera.

You will literally cross the entire island and visit the Laguna El Junco, which is a volcanic crater lake, the Tortoise Reserve “La Galapaguera” and to conclude swim on the beautiful Puerto Chino beach.

During this day, you will learn among other interesting facts the differences between turtles and the Galapagos tortoises! You will also enjoy this special place, as it is home to a variety of biozones that you can see during your hike until reaching a maximum elevation of 730 meters (2.400 feet) and have cooler weather than Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.

You will return to your hotel in San Cristobal (Puerto Baquerizo Moreno) in the afternoon, to enjoy the evening at leisure.

EXPLORING THE ENCHANTING DELIGHTS OF LA LOBERIA AND EL BARRANCO

Day 11 12 Days 3 Islands Galapagos

Experience the enchantment of La Loberia as you observe playful sea lions basking on pristine beaches and gracefully swimming in the crystal-clear waters. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and feel a profound connection with these captivating creatures.

Then, venture into the dramatic cliffs of El Barranco, where you’ll witness the breathtaking flights of red-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, and frigatebirds. Marvel at their elegant maneuvers against the backdrop of rugged volcanic landscapes. These extraordinary experiences will leave you with lifelong memories and a renewed appreciation for the untamed magnificence of the Galapagos Islands.

LEISURE DAY IN SAN CRISTOBAL UNTIL DEPARTURE

Day 12 12 Days 3 Islands Galapagos

Today is your chance to explore the island at your own pace before catching your flight to the mainland. Embrace the freedom to wander through the vibrant streets and discover the hidden gems that make this island so special.

Don’t forget to take in the breathtaking natural beauty that surrounds you, from lush forests teeming with unique wildlife to pristine beaches lapped by turquoise waters. As the day progresses, let the enchanting sights and sounds of the island leave an indelible mark on your soul, ensuring that this experience will forever hold a special place in your travel memories.

Before bidding farewell to this remarkable destination, take a moment to reflect on the wonders you have encountered and the adventures you have embarked upon. Though your time here may be coming to an end, the spirit of the island will remain with you, igniting a desire to return and continue unraveling its captivating secrets.

Extra details

Countries

Ecuador

Rivers and Seas

Pacific Ocean

Flight and Transportation

  • Transfers from and to the airport with private English-speaking driver
  • All transfers with private English-speaking driver in Mainland
  • Bus in Baltra Island
  • Speedboat in Santa Cruz
  • Speedboat in Isabela

Meals Included

11 Breakfast
2 Box Lunch
5 Lunch

Start in Puerto Ayora

End in San Cristobal

This Trip

Included

  • 11 nights of lodging

  • Snorkel equipment

  • Entrances to all the activities listed on the itinerary

Excluded

  • International flights

  • Domestic flights to Galapagos Islands

  • Meals not listed on the itinerary

  • Galapagos National Park Entrance ($100 payable only in cash upon arrival)

  • Galapagos TCT Card ($20 payable at Quito airport)

  • Isabela docking fee ($10 payable in cash)

  • Tips & gratuities

  • Personal expenses

  • Travel insurance

  • Wetsuits

Places to Visit
Puerto Ayora
Puerto Villamil
San Cristobal
Tortuga Bay
Charles Darwin Research Station
Cerro Mesa Reserva
Garrapatero Beach
Tintoreras Islet
Sierra Negra Volcano
Los Tuneles
La Loberia
El Barranco

13 Day - Machu Picchu & Galapagos

Summary

Day Activity Accomodation Meals
1
Welcome to Santa Cruz Island: Highlands & Charles Darwin Research Station
Puerto Ayora
-/L/-
2
Bay Tour of Santa Cruz Island & Afternoon Kayaking Adventure in Tortuga Bay
Puerto Ayora
B/-/-
3
Cycling at Cerro Mesa Reserva & Snorkeling at Garrapatero Beach
Puerto Ayora
B/L/-
4
Discovering an Uninhabited Island
Puerto Ayora
B/L/-
5
Another day, another Uninhabitant Isaland
Puerto Ayora
B/L/-
6
Speedboat to Isabela Island & Wildlife on Las Tintoreras Islet
Puerto Villamil
B/-/-
7
Hiking the Sierra Negra Volcano
Puerto Villamil
B/BL/-
8
Wildlife Encounter at Los Tuneles (Cabo Rosa)
Puerto Villamil
B/BL/-
9
Speedboat to San Cristobal Island & Leisure Afternoon
San Cristobal
B/-/-
10
Discovering the Highlands of San Cristobal
San Cristobal
B/L/-
11
Exploring the Enchanting Delights of La Loberia and El Barranco
San Cristobal
B/-/-
12
Leisure day in San Cristobal until departure
San Cristobal
B/-/-

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