Galapagos Islands: Mid-Cruise Journey (Single)
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Port
Guayaquil (Quito), Ecuador
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Activity Level
Strenuous Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$8200
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
6 days / 5 nights
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Meals Included
Meals included
Day 1 (L/D) Guayaquil - Galápagos
Leave the ship in Guayaquil and transfer to the airport for a flight to the Galápagos Islands.
Upon arrival at the islands' San Cristobal Airport, you'll meet your naturalist guide. Pass through rural areas, as you transfer to your hotel and learn a bit about the archipelago's agriculture and the diversity of its flora and fauna. Surrounded by wild landscapes and different species, keep a lookout for the finches famous for being the basis of Darwin's theory of evolution. Lunch is served at the hotel.
This afternoon, head to La Galapaguera in the San Cristóbal Highlands. Watch the famous Galápagos land tortoises in their natural environment and listen as they eat leaves from the trees and crash through the undergrowth — they are beautiful but perhaps not graceful. Tortoises of all ages and sizes gather here. The small, young ones have bright, shining carapaces; the older ones move more slowly and sport some serious cracks in their shells — evidence of a long life. You may also encounter other fascinating wildlife such as birds, lizards, and marine iguanas. The center is dedicated to eco-friendly practices, emphasizing the importance of sustainable tourism in preserving the islands' delicate ecosystems.
Later, transfer to a nearby restaurant for a delicious dinner.
Hotel: Indigo Hotel (or similar)
Day 2 (B/L/D) Galápagos Islands
After breakfast, embark on an unforgettable full-day boat tour to Kicker Rock, also known as León Dormido. This stunning, jagged rock formation off the coast of San Cristóbal Island in the Galápagos Archipelago is renowned for its shape resembling a sleeping lion. Kicker Rock offers breathtaking views. Although there are no landing areas, this is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. Hop into the crystal-clear waters and encounter vibrant marine life, including playful sea lions, graceful rays, and schools of colorful tropical fish. Explore the dramatic cliffs and underwater landscapes that make this location truly magical.
Enjoy a delicious lunch served on board as you soak in the stunning surroundings. Visit a nearby beach for a leisurely walk and some downtime to take in the serene beauty of the beach before sailing back to San Cristóbal.
Later, transfer to a nearby restaurant for a delicious dinner.
Hotel: Indigo Hotel (or similar)
Day 3 (B/L/D) Galápagos Islands
Set out after breakfast on a captivating half-day land tour on San Cristobal Island, followed by a leisurely afternoon.
Visit the Gianni Arismendy Interpretive Center — an environmental hub dedicated to educating visitors about San Cristobal's ecosystems, wildlife conservation, and sustainable practices. Discover informative exhibits on the Galápagos' rich biodiversity, the islands' history, and the crucial efforts to protect this fragile asset for future generations.
A scenic walk leads down an easy boardwalk to Cerro Tijeretas, where a bust of Charles Darwin commemorates his historic 1835 visit to the islands. The area is teeming with life, including Darwin's finches, San Cristobal mockingbirds, marine iguanas, and sea lions. Hills frame the turquoise bay, home to two types of frigate birds. Climb the staircase to the top of Cerro Tijeretas for panoramic views of northern San Cristobal, including Wreck Bay, Lobos Islet, Punta Carola, and the impressive Kicker Rock.
Continue your adventure to serene and picturesque Darwin Bay on the northern coast of San Cristobal Island — perfect for kayaking, snorkeling, and swimming in clear, turquoise waters. It's also an excellent spot for birdwatching and wildlife observation. Encounter sea lions lounging on the rocks, marine iguanas basking in the sun, and a variety of bird species.
Another stop at Punta Carola, a tranquil beach on the west coast, offers turquoise water for swimming and snorkeling, and a pristine sandy shoreline. The area is home to playful sea lions and marine iguanas basking in the sun. The vibrant underwater life makes it a fantastic spot for snorkeling among colorful fish and sea turtles.
Later, transfer to a nearby restaurant for a delicious dinner.
Hotel: Indigo Hotel (or similar)
Day 4 (B/L/D) Galápagos - Quito
Begin your day with an early morning visit to La Lobería, a stunning coastal area just a short distance from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on San Cristóbal Island. This picturesque beach is renowned for its large population of playful sea lions, often seen sunbathing on the rocks and swimming in the crystal-clear waters. Get up close with these charming marine mammals, either from the shore or by snorkeling. Colorful fish, rays, and occasionally sea turtles make it a fantastic spot for snorkeling. The beach also offers wonderful hiking trails along the coast, providing panoramic views of the ocean and nearby cliffs.
After this invigorating early-morning activity, savor a delicious breakfast and check out.
Transfer to San Cristobal Airport for a flight to Quito.
Quito, Ecuador's capital, nestles at the foot of the majestic 15,696-foot (5,000 m) Pichincha volcano and is celebrated for its eternally spring-like climate and the beauty of its well-preserved colonial center. The world's first-ever UNESCO World Heritage Site, Quito's preservation of its blended past is truly remarkable. The city is beautifully situated in an Andean valley at an elevation of 9,350 feet, making it the second-highest capital city. Check in at the hotel and enjoy an early dinner.
Hotel: La Palma Polo Hotel (or similar)
Day 5 (B/L/D) Quito
After breakfast, head north to the Inti Ñan Museum, located directly on the Equator. This fascinating museum showcases artifacts from pre-Columbian Ecuadorian life and offers engaging demonstrations on the region's unique geography, astrology, and natural sciences.
Discover the perfect environment for growing cacti in the charming town of Pomasqui. Visit a small agave laboratory to learn about the significance of this versatile cactus and its vital role in the lives of Ecuador's Indigenous peoples.
Back in Quito, enjoy a delightful lunch and uncover the hidden treasures of the Old Town. Marvel at the San Francisco Church. Its museum of religious art, La Compañia, boasts seven tons of gold gilding on glittering walls. Check out bustling Independence Plaza, flanked by the Presidential Palace and Quito Cathedral. Rich in art treasures, fine woodcarvings, and flowering balconies, this historical center is the lifeblood of Quito.
Explore the Casa del Alabado Archaeological Museum, home to pre-Columbian artifacts. This fantastic museum houses a 5,000-strong collection representing most of the societies that have inhabited Ecuador throughout history.
Delve into Quito's vibrant culture through its sweet tooth. Taste a variety of traditional desserts melding local ingredients with Spanish influences for some fantastic flavors.
Tonight, an Andean cowboy guides you through a fantastic cultural experience featuring a vibrant folkloric performance by the Ñucanchi Allpa Folklore Ballet. Ecuador's traditional dances, music, and colorful costumes showcase Ecuador's heritage and customs. Enjoy cocktails and appetizers during the performance. Then, indulge in a special farewell dinner that captures the essence of Ecuador and its distinctive Andean flavors, including endemic potato varieties and exotic lupine beans — a true feast for the senses and a story you'll share in the future.
Hotel: La Palma Polo Hotel (or similar)
Day 6 (B) Quito - Lima
Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel and check out.
Transfer to Quito Airport for a flight to Lima, followed by a transfer to the port in Callao, where you will rejoin the ship.
Cancellation Policy: This excursion is non-refundable within 90 days prior to arrival at Guayaquil. Any cancellations made after this deadline will be subject to full payment of the tour cost, including if you cancel your cruise within 90 days prior to arrival at Guayaquil.
Please note: You must book this overland PRIOR to sailing; the cut-off date is 90 days before the ship's call at Guayaquil. Tour operates subject to meeting a minimum number of participants. Minimum age is 12 years. Tour requires strenuous activity and a high level of mobility. Please realistically assess your physical fitness. Accommodation is included (hotels are subject to change). Airport assistance and transfers (if any), transportation by air-conditioned coach, any flights and entrance fees indicated in the itinerary, an English-speaking guide (unless otherwise noted), water on the vehicle, and meals (as indicated) are also included. Gratuities and personal expenses are not included. Bring your passport with you on tour. To comply with airline ticketing requirements, please visit Login | Seabourn to complete the immigration section for online check-in no fewer than 90 days prior to the cruise.