Overview
Follow in the footsteps of Charles Darwin on this inspirational small-group adventure through the enchanted islands of the Galapagos. Splash with sea turtles and sea lions, walk among giant tortoises and iguanas, and spot blue-footed boobies and endemic wildlife found nowhere else on earth - all under the guidance of your MT Sobek naturalist guide. Hiking, snorkeling, and kayaking offer you astonishing opportunities to get close to the wildlife underwater and on land. After each action-filled day, return to the luxury of your private yacht to rest and re-energize. This classic route takes in the natural wonders of Isabela, Fernandina, and Santiago Islands. Please note that actual itinerary routes vary from departure to departure - for more information about the islands each departure will visit, call for details.
To learn more about the Galapagos Islands and what you can expect from MT Sobek boats and adventures, check out our Galapagos Islands portal.
Experience the dramatic volcanic landscapes of Isabela and Fernandina Island, home to endemic flightless cormorants
Anchor your deluxe yacht at nature's doorstep and take Zodiac cruises to remote coves and lagoons
Explore with the best naturalist guides, hand-selected for their experience, dedication, and expertise
- Arrive: Quito, Ecuador
- Depart: Quito, Ecuador
- Duration: 11 Days
- Group Size: 8-16 Guests
- Minimum Age: 6 Years Old
- Activity Level:
- Level 2
- More About Activity Levels
Itinerary
- Day01
Arrive in Quito
Welcome to the historic city of Quito, the capital of Ecuador. An MT Sobek representative will meet you outside customs at the airport and escort you to your hotel. After settling in at the hotel, the rest of the day is free unwind, take advantage of the pool's spa services or begin your exploration of this dynamic city. Dinner is on your own tonight.
- Accommodation: Swissôtel Quito
- Day02
Tour Quito's Old Town
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before setting out on half-day guided tour of colonial Quito. The city's UNESCO-listed old town contains the best examples of Colonial Baroque architecture in South America! After lunch, you are free to explore more of the old town, return to the hotel, or shop for handicrafts made by local artisans.
Gather in the hotel at 6:30pm for a briefing with your fellow travelers and MT Sobek representative, who will discuss tomorrow's flight to the Galápagos Islands and the adventure ahead. Dinner is on your own tonight.
- Accommodation: Swissôtel Quito
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
- Day03
Fly to the Galapagos Islands & See Giant Tortoises in the Wild
Rise for breakfast and an early transfer flight from Quito to Baltra Island in the Galápagos. After meeting your naturalist guide, take a short transfer from Baltra to Santa Cruz Island. Here a private vehicle awaits to take you to the lush highlands of Santa Cruz for a special opportunity to see giant tortoises in their wild and natural habitat. The Galapagos Islands are named after these magnificent, ancient creatures and the experience with them is magical. Next, transfer to Puerto Ayora for a stroll along the main street to the harbor, where you will board your private yacht. Enjoy a welcome dinner onboard.
- Day04
Follow Trails on Isabela Island & Look for Endemic Wildlife
Please note that Days 4 to 9 may slightly vary depending on your departure date. From your anchorage on the southern end of Isabela Island, board a Zodiac (a small, motorized inflatable boat) to explore Tintoreras - a group of volcanic islets. Follow a trail to observe marine iguanas, sea lions, and marine birds diving for fish. Return to the yacht and cruise to the western side of Isabela Island. Enjoy views of the island's pristine coastline, and keep lookout for dolphins and whales. After lunch, anchor at Punta Moreno for a walk across a pahoehoe lava flow, surrounded by giant shield volcanoes and a series of green lagoons - abundant with wildlife, including flamingos, blue-footed boobies, Darwin's finches, and flightless cormorants. If time allows, take your first snorkel this afternoon. Return to the boat for cocktail hour and dinner.
- Day05
Experience West Isabela Island
Start the day at Elizabeth Bay, where you will set off by Zodiac to explore tranquil coves and a red mangrove lagoon, home to green sea turtles, flightless cormorants, and Galápagos penguins! Get in the water for a snorkel and you may also spot rays and small sharks among tropical fish. After lunch, continue to Urbina Bay - famous for having uplifted 15 feet along 2 miles of coastline exposing corals and invertebrates in its strata. Follow your guide on the trail to look for Galápagos land iguanas, Galápagos hawks, finches, and giant tortoises (mostly seen between January and June.)
- Day06
Explore Fernandina Island, the Archipelago's Youngest Island
Awake at your anchorage near Punta Espinosa on Fernandina Island - said to be the largest ecologically pristine island in the world and one of the highlights of the trip. This island is an active shield volcano which had an eruption as recently as 2018. Upon landing, take a walk on black lava fields in search of marine iguanas, colorful Sally Lightfoot crabs and Galápagos sea lions lounging in its lagoons. In the afternoon, anchor at Tagus Cove on Isabela and embark on a snorkeling excursion. This is a good place to look for Galapagos penguins underwater! Later, go ashore to inspect the inscriptions left by pirates and hike to nearby Darwin Lake, perched above sea level, but full of saltwater.
- Day07
Hike & Snorkel on Santiago Island
Wake for a wet landing on Santiago's soft, sandy Espumilla Beach. Walk the island's lagoon and beach in search of raptors and finches before suiting up for cliff-side kayaking and snorkeling. Perhaps the finest snorkel of the trip, you will be amazed by the array of colorful marine life, from angelfish and rays to sea turtles and white-tipped reef sharks. After lunch, land on the dark, sandy volcanic beach of Puerto Egas. The trail follows the rocky coastline, where tide pools are home to sponges, hermit crabs, and fish including the world's only four-eyed blenny. Sea lions bask on the rocks, along with marine iguanas and shore birds. At the end of the trail, we'll visit the grottos for a chance to see a colony of Galápagos fur seals up close.
- Day08
Swim with Sea Lions on Santa Cruz Island
Rise to explore Santa Cruz Island's Cerro Dragón. Named after its large population of land iguanas, this area has one of the longest trails in the islands (2 miles). Spot flamingos in a salt-water lagoon before lunch and then head to Rábida. The volcanic "small red island" is located near the center of the archipelago, and its red-sand beach is home to sea lions and pups. Behind the beach is a brackish lagoon, home to migratory shorebirds, wading birds, and ducks. Two species of boobies nest along the cliffs. Snorkel with Galápagos penguins along the cliff face or swim with sea lion pups - another highlight of the trip!
- Day09
Journey to Bachas Beach & North Seymour Islands
Las Bachas is a beautiful, white-sand beach on the north side of Santa Cruz. Encounter sea lions on the beach, look for flamingos and great blue herons in the lagoon, and spot hatchlings' footprints leading from the nest to the water's edge (sea turtles nest here from December to April). After our last lunch onboard the yacht, disembark by Zodiac for a snorkeling excursion near North Seymour Island, known for its dense breeding colonies of blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds. Keep an eye out for shorebirds, sea lions, marine iguanas, and huge land iguanas as you walk North Seymour's loop trail in the afternoon. Back on the boat tonight, enjoy a festive farewell cocktail hour and a group dinner with the captain.
- Day09
Depart Quito
- Day10
Depart from the Galapagos & Return to Quito
After breakfast aboard the yacht, disembark and transfer to the Baltra airport for the return flight to Quito. An MT Sobek representative will greet you at Quito airport and provide assistance to your nearby hotel.
- Accommodation: Wyndham Quito Airport Hotel
- Activity: 2-hour flight transfer and 5-minute transfer
- Meals: Breakfast
Contact our Regional Specialists for more travel ideas!
Upcoming Departures
- AvailableFeb 18 - 28, 2021Aboard Galaxy
- AvailableMar 11 - 21, 2021Aboard Galaxy
- AvailableApr 15 - 25, 2021Aboard Galaxy
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Download 2020 ItineraryEcuador Galapagos Adventure Cruise on Galaxy/Integrity Map
Open MapWhy take this trip with us?
Reason #01
MT Sobek was one of the first North American companies to bring visitors to the Galápagos Islands, with an inaugural charter for the Sierra Club in 1970.
Reason #02
Guests love our Galápagos adventures because we charter smaller, deluxe yachts for an exclusive experience with our own expert team of naturalist guides.
Reason #03
Our guides and crew work hard maximizing the amount of wildlife encounters both on land and sea, and guides will always be snorkeling with you.
Meet Our Guides
Our expert guides and trip leaders are truly the key to our trips' success. Many are locals who live in-country year-round; others have made it their second home—all are passionate, enthusiastic and endlessly knowledgeable. Meet a few of the guides that might be on your trip.
Luis Die
Greg Estes
Fernando Ortiz
What To Expect
Activities
Island cruising by deluxe yacht with daily Zodiac excursions to explore hidden coves. Hike, snorkel, kayak, and swim among unique endemic wildlife.
Lodging
Luxurious comfort aboard a sleek and modern yacht with a full crew to cater to your every need. Also includes an upscale hotel in Quito.
Climate
Mild climate year-round. Dec-May has daytime temperatures 76-86°F and water temperatures of 70-75°F. Jun-Nov has daytime temperatures of 67-77°F and water temperatures of 65-72°F.
FAQ
When and where should I arrive?
Arrive in Quito any time on Day 1. An MT Sobek representative will meet you and transfer you to the hotel. Most flights from the US arrive late at night.
How qualified are your guides in the Galapagos?
Our Galapagos Naturalist Guides are all rated Level 3 by the Galapagos National Park, which is the highest level of qualification, and means each guide has passed the Naturalist Level II course certifying that he/she has expert knowledge of the Galapagos Islands. This level guide will also hold a university degree in biology, biology related fields, and/or tourism, and must be fluent in 3 languages.
What is the difference between Eastern and Western islands?
You might hear about Western and Eastern Islands in the Galapagos. Western islands are newer geologically-speaking with active volcanoes and lava landscapes. Here you are more likely to see flightless cormorants, marine iguanas, whales and dolphins. Eastern islands also have volcanic origin but they are older and have more vegetation growth. Here you are more likely to see waved albatross, red footed boobies, land iguanas, penguins and sharks.
When is the best time to go to the Galapagos?
The Galapagos Islands are a year-round destination, with something to see and do every month. The warmer season is the best time for warmer, calmer seas and good underwater visibility. The water is choppiest in September. Late spring brings the mating and nesting season for frigate birds and blue-footed boobies!
What is the difference between the ship types?
MT Sobek offers a variety of motorized yachts and catamarans ranging from deluxe to luxury. Each of the ships carry a maximum of 16-guests, ensuring a personalized experience and on-going small-group discussion with our Naturalist Guides. All of our ships come with a highly experienced and professional crew. Each of the ships are fully air-conditioned, come with the highest safety standards, and can boast excellent cuisine.
Am I able to extend my stay before or after my Galapagos cruise?
Absolutely! There are several ways to extend your stay in Ecuador and Peru before and after the trip. We recommend a 4 or 5 day excursion to the Sacha Jungle Lodge in the Upper Amazon Rainforest, where we see toucans and monkeys among many other creatures. Or visit the Hacienda Zuleta and Otavalo Market on our 2 or 3 day extension. Many people choose to explore Cusco and Machu Picchu on our 5-day extension in Peru, or explore the Mindo Cloud Forest on a 2 or 3 days extension.
How Does MT Sobek Support Conservation in the Galapagos?
MT Sobek is a proud supporting travel partner of the Galapagos Conservancy. All of our highly-experienced naturalist guides are also active in conservation and work closely with the Galapagos National Park.
Can I Charter a Yacht for a Private Adventure?
Yes, you can! Private charters are a great option for families and large groups. For more details, please call our Regional Galapagos Specialists at 1-888-831-7526.
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- Dates Select a cruise to continue
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Integrity
Experience cruising at its finest aboard Integrity, a 141-foot luxury...
Galaxy
Journey through the Galapagos in style aboard the 115-foot Galaxy...
Charter Your Own Cruise!
Contact us to charter a private journey aboard one of our luxury yachts or catamarans—for up to 16 guests.
Learn MoreScheduled Dates
Customize Your Trip
Make any of our trips a custom adventure or start from scratch. Take two itineraries and match them up to create a unique third. Add extras and extensions and more...if you can imagine it, we can make it happen!
Scheduled Dates
Customize Your Trip
Make any of our trips a custom adventure or start from scratch. Take two itineraries and match them up to create a unique third. Add extras and extensions and more...if you can imagine it, we can make it happen!
Scheduled Dates
- AvailableJan 21 - 29, 2021
- AvailableJun 24 - Jul 02, 2021
- AvailableOct 14 - 22, 2021
Customize Your Trip
Make any of our trips a custom adventure or start from scratch. Take two itineraries and match them up to create a unique third. Add extras and extensions and more...if you can imagine it, we can make it happen!
Scheduled Dates
- AvailableFeb 18 - 28, 2021
- AvailableMar 11 - 21, 2021
- AvailableApr 15 - 25, 2021
- AvailableJul 08 - 18, 2021
- AvailableOct 14 - 24, 2021
Customize Your Trip
Make any of our trips a custom adventure or start from scratch. Take two itineraries and match them up to create a unique third. Add extras and extensions and more...if you can imagine it, we can make it happen!
Additional Cost
- $550.00 Internal Airfare
- $500.00 Single Supplement
- $20.00 Galapagos Transit Control Card
Price Includes
- Expert leadership from experienced adventure guides
- Accommodations as noted in the itinerary
- Meals as noted in the daily itinerary
- Potable water and snacks throughout
- 1 cocktail at welcome and farewell dinners on the yacht
- All tips and gratuities for support staff with the exception of your lead naturalist guide & yacht crew
- All necessary snorkeling gear
- Wetsuit rentals
- All group activities and ground transportation
- Arrival and departure day airport transfers
Price Does Not Include
- International airfare, any airport taxes, or excess baggage charges
- Galápagos National Park fee, collected upon arrival (Age 12 and older: $100 / Age 11 and younger: $50)
- Lunch on Day 7 and Dinners on Day 1, 2 and 7
- Optional tips to your lead naturalist guide & yacht crew
- Personal expenses such as medical immunizations, phone calls, laundry, or souvenirs
- Airport transfers if arriving outside of Day 1
- Optional travel protection
- Optional internet fee
- Alcoholic beverages at meals other than welcome and farewell dinners
Price Includes
Price Does Not Include
Price Includes
- Expert leadership from experienced adventure guides
- Accommodations as noted in the itinerary
- Meals as noted in the daily itinerary
- Potable water and snacks throughout
- 1 cocktail at welcome and farewell dinners on the yacht
- All tips and gratuities for support staff with the exception of your lead naturalist guide & yacht crew
- All necessary snorkeling gear
- All group activities and ground transportation
- Arrival and departure day airport transfers
Price Does Not Include
- International airfare, any airport taxes, or excess baggage charges
- Galápagos National Park fee, collected upon arrival (Age 12 and older: $100 / Age 11 and younger: $50)
- Lunch on Day 7 and Dinners on Day 1, 2 and 7
- Optional tips to your lead naturalist guide & yacht crew
- Galápagos Transit Control Card
- Wetsuit Rental
- Personal expenses such as medical immunizations, phone calls, laundry, or souvenirs
- Alcoholic beverages at meals other than welcome and farewell dinners
- Optional travel protection
Price Includes
- Expert leadership from experienced adventure guides
- Accommodations as noted in the itinerary
- Meals as noted in the daily itinerary
- Potable water and snacks throughout
- 1 cocktail at welcome and farewell dinners on the yacht
- All tips and gratuities for support staff with the exception of your lead naturalist guide & yacht crew
- All necessary snorkeling gear
- All group activities and ground transportation
- Arrival and departure day airport transfers
Price Does Not Include
- International airfare, any airport taxes, or excess baggage charges
- Galápagos National Park fee, collected upon arrival (Age 12 and older: $100 / Age 11 and younger: $50)
- Lunch on Day 10 and dinners on Day 1, 2, and 10
- Wetsuit rentals
- Optional tips to your lead naturalist guide & yacht crew
- Personal expenses such as medical immunizations, phone calls, laundry, or souvenirs
- Airport transfers if arriving outside of Day 1
- Optional travel protection
Photo Gallery
Testimonials
"I've traveled around the world and always took pride in my ability to research and inform myself about my destination. No amount of research would have been able to give me the experience that travelling the Galapagos w MT Sobek did. As we finished this trip I looked back and wondered how much more incredible my previous trips would have been had I done them with MT Sobek."
Lindsay P.
MT Sobek Guest, Galapagos
"The entire trip was outstanding including the destination, the trip itinerary, MT Sobek's organization, the crew, and our guide. The Galápagos as a travel destination is truly majestic."
Patrick A.
MT Sobek Guest, Galapagos