Description
An epic, lodge-based Galapagos wildlife safari staying in some wonderful accommodation. Perfect for anyone who doesn't want to stay aboard an expedition ship.
Overview
This lodge-based Galapagos itinerary visits the incredible Santa Cruz and Isabela islands and includes boat trips to surrounding islands. This is an incredible way to see the wildlife of the Galapagos for those land-lovers with an aversion to spending too much time on the sea. Swim with playful sea lions; watch the blue footed boobies as they perform in a charming courtship dance; see the emblematic tortoises in their natural habitat and a whole host of other fearless animals.
WHAT MAKES THIS TRIP EXTRAORDINARY
- Lodge-based Galapagos safari, ideal for those who don't want to stay on a ship, or who have already explored via cruise.
- View the famous giant tortoises of the Galapagos Islands.
- Snorkelling in the warm equatorial waters in search of sea turtles and tropical fish.
- Get up close with the fearless wildlife of the Galapagos Islands.
Itinerary
There is also the chance to see volcanic formations such as pit craters and lava tunnels. Later you visit the Giant Tortoise Reserve, where you can see these iconic giants of the Galapagos Islands in their natural habitat. You will also have the chance to view Darwin’s finches as well as other resident birdlife. Return to Galapagos Safari Camp for dinner and a sunset cocktail.
Overnight: Galapagos Safari Camp(L, D)
Bartolome Island, with its emblematic pinnacle rock, is often frequented by Galapagos penguins, and sea lions interact playfully with passing snorkelers. Nearby Santa Fe Island is home to land and marine iguanas, as well as frigatebirds and sea lion colonies. On South Plaza Island you will find land iguanas, red-billed tropicbirds, and swallow-tailed gulls. The Galapagos Marine Reserve is the second largest in the world and snorkelling off the boats, or from the beaches are a highlight of any Galapagos safari.
Overnight: Galapagos Safari Camp(B, L, D)
After breakfast you are driven to the east of Santa Cruz Island. Cerro Mesa, rises 490m above sea level, offering breathtaking views and lays claim to the largest crater on the island. Here you can find seven subspecies of finch, a host of endemic plants as well as the vermilion flycatcher. After lunch you head to Garrapatero Beach, where you are presented with an intriguing contrast between mangroves, black lava rocks, powdery white sand and crystalline blue seas. Flamingos and other birdlife can be found at the nearby lagoon and it is a great place to enjoy optional activities such as kayaking or mountain biking.
Overnight: Galapagos Safari Camp(B, L, D)
Today you enjoy your last morning at the Galapagos Safari Camp. You are transferred to Puerto Ayora to board your fast boat across to Puerto Villamil on Isabela Island. Met on arrival you are transferred to your beautiful lodge. The afternoon is free for you to settle into your new surroundings.
Overnight: Scalesia Lodge(B, L, D)
Here you find solitary beaches, lava tunnels as well as natural pools and estuaries where flamingos and other birds reside. Later you visit the Tortoise Breeding Centre where the National Park is breeding tortoise in danger of extinction. Many tortoises have been released back into the wild and can be found on nearby trails. Finally, you will visit the ‘Wall of Tears’ constructed by prisoners between 1945 and 1959 when Isabela served as a penal colony.
Overnight: Scalesia Lodge(B, L, D)
Today you visit Sierra Negra Volcano. After driving to the highlands you begin a walk up this incredible volcano. It last erupted in 2005 and is considered the second largest active caldera on the planet and has a diameter of approximately 10 Kilometres. You will walk along the rim of this dramatic volcano which opens up to spectacular views. Your hike continues to Volcan Chico, where active sulphur vents can be seen and a dramatic collage of reds, yellows, oranges and blacks colour the rocky volcanic landscape.
Overnight: Scalesia Lodge(B, L, D)
DEPART ISABELA ISLAND
This morning you are escorted by boat back to Puerto Ayora before continuing by land to the island of Baltra in time for your connecting flight to mainland Ecuador.
Accommodation
Galapagos Safari Camp
Scalesia Lodge
Cancellation Policy
Life is unpredictable and we understand that sometimes you have to cancel or change your trip dates and it is our endeavor to make it as easy as possible for you. However, please understand that we plan everything including guide fees, permits, accommodation and ration in advance. Therefore, any cancellation means inconvenience and certain losses to the people involved in various stages of the program. Keeping that in mind, our cancellation charges are as below,
- Cancellations prior to 30 days from the start of the event: Full refund as cash.
- Cancellations between 30 days and 15 days to the start of the event: 50 % refund as cash.
- Cancellations less than 15 days to the start of the event: No refund.
- Cancellations will be accepted only by email.
Note: We reserve the right to cancel a program before departure in the event of logistical problems arising due to natural calamities, strikes, wars or any other circumstances that make the event inadvisable. In this case, we will refund 50% of the event fees.
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