Galapagos Wildlife Voyage Itinerary

This exploration of the Galapagos begins in Quito, Ecuador's capital, where the eclectic beauty of the Old Town meets the bubbly nightlife of a thriving modern city. Arrive early to wander through the narrow streets and discover Plaza San Francisco and Plaza Grande. Or perhaps venture to the nearby El Panecillo for panoramic views of the endless white houses of the city and the volcanoes which line the horizon.

Fly to the Galapagos Islands and board the the ship that will take you through the natural wonders of the archipelago. Once on the water, the first stop is Las Bachas beach on Santa Cruz Island, a major egg-laying site for the famous Galapagos sea turtles. Keep your eyes peeled for your first glimpse of the ecosystems unique marine life.

Head to Isabela Island, the largest landmass in the Galapagos Archipelago. With idyllic turquoise waters lapping at the greatest expanse of beaches in the islands, Isabela demands a dip in the ocean. Be alert and spot blue-footed boobies, penguins, crabs and marine iguanas.

Visit Punta Marino, an alien landscape of black lava flows and brackish lagoons. The Galapagos' extensive birdlife population call the mangrove forests and volcanic terrain of this exotic location home. Trek into the highlands to get elevated views of an astounding landscape.

Squeeze through the lava cacti that surround the base of the La Cumbre volcano before sliding into a panga boat to drift close to volcanic sea cliffs and swim with sea turtles, marine iguanas penguins.

Marvel at the stunning natural monument that is Caleta Bucanero, created through years of sea erosion, which used to be a popular pirate hang out. See the black sand beach of Port Egas and keep an eye out for sea lions and fur seals off the coast.

Journey to the tiny island of Rebida, where indigenous species roam in splendid isolation, free of any introduced threats. Volcanic activity has moulded the landscape into a vibrant array of red sands and scarlet cliffs. Spot flamingos and pelicans en masse in the inland lagoon.

Learn the history of the archipelago and the efforts to conserve its beauty at the Charles Darwin Research Station on Isla Santa Cruz. Here there is the opportunity to get up close and personal with the famous giant tortoises. Afterwards, trek into the highlands and wind through misty forests on the way to inactive volcanic peaks.

Travel to the red mangrove wetlands of Black Turtle Cove and take a dip in the peaceful waters. The area is a nursery for rays and Galapagos sharks, making it ideal for spotting some of the larger marine creatures. In the afternoon, carry on to Mosquera, and watch as red rock crabs nonchalantly clamber right over the top of marine iguanas.

Keep an eye out for dolphins frolicking in the waters off the shores of Genovesa, an island with varying landscapes that is a twitcher's paradise, boasting all three types of boobies, even the rare red-footed variety.

Despite being one of the smaller islands in the Galapagos, Plaza Sur is home to one of the archipelago's largest populations of land iguana. Spot the impressive lizards among the cacti of the volcanic surroundings.

In the morning, pass Leon Dormido, the impressive natural rock formation that rises form the middle of the sea, resembling a sleeping lion. Visit Cerro Brujo and perhaps hike, swim and snorkel. Afterwards, head inland to get up close and personal to the Galapagos tortoises at a national park with an established breeding program for these creatures of the sea.

Farewell the exotic lands of the Galapagos and head back to Quito for an exploration of the Ecuadorian capital.

Share a final breakfast with your Intrepid group and reminisce about an unforgettable Galapagos adventure! Perhaps stay on and soak up more of the cultural vibe of Quito.