Complete Galapagos Itinerary

Travel to Ecuador and experience the buzz of lively Quito. Brimming with colonial history and architecture, navigate the winding streets and cobblestone alleyways and be rewarded by this enigmatic city. Why not relax with a cup of Ecuador's finest at a cafe on the Plaza Grande.

Take a flight to the tiny island of Baltra. Cruise to the beautiful beach of Las Bachas on Isla Santa Cruz, a haven for sea turtles come egg-laying time.

Encounter a myriad of wildlife at Las Plazas, where marine and land iguanas, swallow-tailed gulls, frigatebirds and brown pelicans can be glimpsed. Sail to the relatively undisturbed Isla Santa Fe, where those who want a really close look at the wildlife can opt for a snorkel in the radiant green waters.

The journey heads due south to Isla Espanola. Spot waved albatross, hood mockingbirds, Galapagos hawks and blue-footed boobies. Head to Gardener Bay to stroll a stretch of the idyllic white beach.

Visit Isla Floreana and learn about the early inhabitants of the Galapagos archipelago. Take part in the tradition of leaving a letter or a postcard at Post Office Bay, where it will be collected by the traditional mariner mail the following day.

Travel to Isla Santa Cruz, the second largest of the Galapagos Islands. Discover the research and preservation practices that happen at the Charles Darwin Research Station before heading to the twin volcanic craters of Los Gemelos for some lava tunnel exploration.

Visit Isla Rabida and learn about the Galapagos's geological gems. As sea lions soak up the sun on the red-sand beach below, and flamingos frolic in the local lagoon, why not kick back and relax too? With hiking, swimming and snorkelling opportunities, there's every chance to mix with the locals.

Hike the Summit Trail to the top of Bartolome and admire the stunning vista of the Galapagos Islands sprawled out across the horizon. Visit Pinnacle Rock, the definitive icon of Galapagos landscape images, and learn about its contribution to World War II target practice.

Head to the ever-popular North Seymour Island, where a short hike leads to the lookout over Daphne Major and Minor. Admire one last view over the archipelago before boarding a return flight to Quito.

Head back to the bubbly city of Quito and perhaps end this Galapagos adventure with an anise flavoured mistela, a drink unique to the city.