Galápagos: A Private Voyage into Wilderness and Wonder with Colleen Patrick-Goudreau

We will be meeting at our hotel in Quito (TBC)  in the early afternoon (the exact time and place will be shared with our travelers before the trip, of course!) for a quick trip briefing and all-around introductions of your fellow travelers.  

After a trip briefing, introductions and a toast to our upcoming adventures, we’ll head to our first dinner, aiming for an early night since we depart early tomorrow for the islands!

Accommodation:

4 or 5 star hotel in Quito (TBC)

Included:

welcome meeting & drinks

dinner

non-premium drinks during dinner

Excluded:

breakfast & lunch

premium drinks

This morning we pack our bags and head to the airport for the ~2/3hrs flight to the Galápagos Islands!

Upon arrival at Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on San Cristobal Island, we’ll take a quick, scenic transfer by bus to the dock, and then a fun Zodiac ride will bring you directly to the yacht, anchored in the bay. After settling into your cabin, join us for a delicious welcome lunch onboard.

We’ll have a welcome briefing and a brief safety drill to get everyone oriented. Afterward, you can select your snorkel gear and wetsuit, ready for underwater adventures this week! Take some time to get comfortable as the yacht departs the harbor.

Within a few hours, we’ll arrive at Leon Dormido, or “Sleeping Lion.” This incredible volcanic rock formation, a remnant of a vertical tuff cone, rises 500 feet from the ocean. Erosion has created a striking split in the rock, providing a stunning backdrop, especially at sunset – a perfect photo opportunity. As we cruise around the formation, watch for blue-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, and frigatebirds nesting on the cliffs. Guests on the Evolve will also visit La Galapaguera de Cerro Colorado, the Land Tortoise Breeding Center.

Later, join the Captain and crew for a cocktail reception. An elegant multi-course dinner, prepared by our chefs, will be served to complete your first day. The Galapagos adventure is officially underway!

Your first full day of Galápagos exploration begins with an exhilarating Zodiac ride to Cerro Brujo – or “Wizard Hill”! Keep your eyes peeled as your guide points out the incredible variety of birds soaring above. Brown pelicans, brown noddy terns, and blue-footed boobies will be putting on a show, dive-bombing into the water to fish. See if you can spot the different color patterns that tell you the age of the birds – did you know a mature brown pelican has a white neck?

Look closely at the rocks, too! You’ll see Sally Lightfoot crabs scurrying everywhere. They start out black when young, but transform into incredibly colorful creatures as they grow. Your guides will also point out fascinating geological formations, including “The Cathedral,” playfully nicknamed “Darwin’s Pants” – see if you can guess why!

After your Zodiac tour, we’ll land on a stunning coral sand beach. Here, you can explore at your own pace. Enjoy a peaceful walk along the pristine sands, or even take a swim with playful sea lions right from the beach! This is also a perfect, relaxed spot to get comfortable with your snorkeling gear before we venture into deeper waters. Your expert guides will be on hand to help you identify the amazing fish species you spot in the shallows.

This afternoon, we set off for Punta Pitt for a memorable hike. The trail here is a bit rocky with some uphill sections, but the reward is absolutely worth it! Punta Pitt is renowned as one of the best birdwatching sites in the Galápagos, and it’s the only place where you can see all three booby species: blue-footed, red-footed, and Nazca boobies! Keep an eye out for fluffy white baby blue-footed boobies – they grow up so fast! Frigatebirds, swallow-tailed gulls, storm petrels, and brown pelicans will also be putting on an aerial display. For those who want to get back in the water, we’ll have the opportunity to snorkel at Pitt Rock. Get ready to swim with sea lions and admire colorful fish like King Angel and Surgeon fish.

As the yacht sets sail this evening, you can unwind in the library with a guidebook or a good novel, or head to the top deck for a distant view of the iconic “Kicker Rock.” Later, join us on the sundeck for delicious gourmet snacks and a taste of local Galapagos beer! And as night falls, join your guide on deck for a breathtaking exploration of the Southern Hemisphere’s star-filled skies. What an incredible day of wildlife and wonder!

Get ready for a morning landing at Punta Suarez on Española (Hood) Island, a true Galápagos hotspot! Your guides will reveal the incredible array of endemic species found only here, including the magnificent waved albatross. These birds are ocean wanderers for years, returning to land just to mate, and if you’re visiting between April and December, you’re in for a treat – you’ll witness their famous courtship dance!

As you explore, watch your step for marine iguanas basking in the sun on the dark lava rocks. These fascinating creatures are usually black, but during mating season, they transform with vibrant red and green colors from their algae-rich diet. Follow the trail to the dramatic ocean blowhole and keep an eye out for colorful Sally Lightfoot crabs darting along the shore. We’ll also be on the lookout for Darwin’s Finches, the Española mockingbird, Galápagos Doves, red-billed tropicbirds, Galápagos Hawks, Nazca boobies, and swallow-tailed gulls – the world’s only nocturnal gull!

Back on the yacht, a delicious BBQ lunch awaits you on deck (weather permitting!), and you’ll even get a fun Ecuadorian ceviche cooking demonstration. After lunch, your guide will offer an interesting enrichment lecture on marine currents and weather, or the fascinating geology of the islands.

In the afternoon, you’ll have the chance to snorkel at Gardner Islet, exploring underwater caves teeming with invertebrates. Later, we’ll disembark at Gardner Bay, home to a stunning white-powder sand beach and playful sea lion colonies. Watch the dominant males guarding their harems! Here, you can choose your own adventure: snorkel from the beach, kayak, paddleboard, or simply relax on the sand, soak up the sun, and spot more wildlife – Darwin Finches, Española mockingbirds, and Galápagos hawks are often seen here. After a day packed with incredible experiences, we’ll return to the yacht for a briefing about tomorrow’s adventures and a delicious dinner.

This morning, step onto the unique olive-sand beach of Punta Cormorant on Floreana Island! Listen to the sounds of sea lions, lava herons, night herons, and blue-footed boobies as you explore. Discover the beach’s green hue, caused by iron and manganese from volcanic lava, just like in Hawaii!

Follow your guide to a brackish lagoon, a haven for Bahama ducks, stilts, Galápagos flycatchers, and vibrant pink American flamingos! Your guide will point out the diverse plant life, from morning glories to mangroves. The trail leads to a beach where sea turtles nest and stingrays glide in the shallows.

Snorkeling fans, get ready! You won’t want to miss the chance to snorkel at Devil’s Crown or Champion Islet, a sunken crater teeming with colorful fish, coral, white-tipped sharks, sea turtles,  eagle rays, and sea stars. 

Back on board for lunch, we’ll delve into the intriguing human history of Floreana, the “Island of Mysteries.”

This afternoon, experience a classic Galápagos tradition at Post Office Bay! Drop a postcard (no postage needed!) into the historic barrel, and sift through those left by others. If you find one destined for near your home, the tradition is to hand-deliver it! Your postcards will be delivered by future travelers in the same way.

For more adventure, take a Zodiac or paddleboard to Baroness Point lagoon, seeking sea turtles and rays in the shallows, and photographing vibrant sea stars and fish. Return to the yacht for a delicious Espresso Martini made with local Galápagos coffee, followed by our evening briefing and dinner. Another incredible Galápagos day!

Wake up in the bustling harbor of Academy Bay, the Galápagos‘ lively hub! This morning, we’ll disembark at Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island and hop on a private bus for a scenic ride into the lush highlands. As we ascend, notice the changing vegetation zones, becoming greener and denser.

Our morning adventure takes us to Rancho Primicias or El Chato, private ranches where magnificent giant tortoises roam free in their natural habitat. Prepare to be amazed by these gentle giants, some weighing over 500 pounds! We’ll also explore fascinating lava tunnels on the ranch, a truly unique experience. For those feeling green-fingered, you can join the “Green Team” and plant a tree, contributing to Ecoventura’s reforestation project and leaving a positive mark on the Galápagos. Our next stop is Los Gemelos, “the twins,” massive volcanic craters that showcase the island’s incredible geology.

We’ll return to the yacht for a delicious lunch onboard. Afterwards, immerse yourself in an enriching talk by your guide on a captivating topic like Darwin’s Theory of Evolution or the unique arrival of species to the islands.

This afternoon, we’ll visit the Centro de Crianza Fausto Llerena breeding center, followed by the Charles Darwin Research Station Exhibition Hall. Witness firsthand the vital conservation efforts underway, see hatchlings and young tortoises destined for island repatriation, and pay tribute to Lonesome George, the iconic Pinta Island tortoise. You’ll also encounter saddleback tortoises, including descendants of “Super Diego,” a conservation success story!

Finally, take a leisurely stroll through the seaside village of Puerto Ayora. Browse local art, jewelry, and souvenirs as you wander towards the pier. Tonight, you have the option to stay in town and sample local cuisine at your own pace (Zodiac transfers back to the yacht are available, conditions permitting). Otherwise, a grand multi-course dinner awaits you back on board!

Wake up to the tranquility of the Galápagos once more! This morning offers two fantastic choices. For the energetic, a rewarding hike awaits on Bartolome Island. Prepare for a bit of a climb – around 400 wooden steps wind their way up the island, culminating in breathtaking panoramic views of iconic Pinnacle Rock. Along the way, your guide will unveil the fascinating geology of this volcanic landscape, pointing out mini lava cones and lava bombs shaped by ancient eruptions.

If hiking isn’t your preference, opt for a delightful Zodiac ride around Bartolome Island, specifically to spot playful Galápagos penguins! These adorable, petite penguins are often seen swimming, diving, and preening on the rocks.

Afterward, the crystal-clear waters of Bartolome beckon! Wade in from the beach and snorkel in paradise. Swim alongside schools of vibrant tropical fish, keep an eye out for white-tipped reef sharks, and perhaps even encounter some of those charming Galápagos penguins underwater!

Return to the yacht for a delicious BBQ lunch served on deck (weather permitting), featuring grilled delights and a fun cooking demonstration.

This afternoon’s itinerary varies slightly depending on your yacht – which is to be confirmed – ensuring everyone enjoys incredible Galápagos experiences.

• Origin guests will explore Sombrero Chino (Chinese Hat), a unique island named for its distinctive shape. Sea lions greet you on the beach, and the trail reveals marine iguanas and oystercatchers amidst volcanic formations. Snorkeling here, often with penguins, is a must!

• Theory guests will visit Playa Las Bachas on Santa Cruz Island. Explore inland lagoons with striking flamingos and then enjoy another wonderful snorkeling opportunity.

• Evolve guests will experience a Zodiac excursion to Caleta Tortuga Negra (Black Turtle Cove). Glide through mangrove-lined coves and inlets, listening for sea turtles and watching for golden rays.

Later, we’ll gather on the sundeck for gourmet snacks and an Ecuadorian cocktail during our evening briefing. And tonight, get ready for some fun – our crew is hosting an optional pirate-themed party!

This morning, we’re off to South Plaza, a captivating islet with towering cliffs and a trail brimming with unique flora and fauna! Keep an eye out for young “Opuntia” cacti, protected from invasive species – a testament to Galápagos conservation. Birdwatchers will be thrilled – look for nests of swallow-tailed gulls, shearwaters, small ground finches, and red-billed tropicbirds. This uplifted island is also home to a boisterous bachelor sea lion colony, where you might witness dominant bulls recovering from territorial battles. Get ready for close encounters with land iguanas, and your guide will explain how they differ from their marine cousins.

During lunch, we’ll set sail for North Seymour Island, where a truly spectacular sight awaits! Prepare to be amazed by frigatebirds – especially the males, proudly displaying their inflated red throat pouches to attract mates. At mating season’s peak, you’ll be surrounded by dozens of these incredible birds, but even outside of that time, you’ll still see individuals in their courting plumage. The Galápagos is home to both Great and Magnificent frigatebirds, and your guides will teach you how to tell them apart.

For one last underwater adventure, we’ll have a final snorkeling opportunity in deeper waters. Keep your eyes peeled for sharks, sea lions, starfish, and a kaleidoscope of tropical fish.

As the day winds down, join the Captain for a special farewell gathering with a champagne toast. Let’s take a moment to reflect on our incredible week and share our gratitude for this Galápagos paradise. Finally, a grand multi-course farewell dinner awaits – a culinary masterpiece with exquisite flavors and presentation. The evening culminates with a captivating presentation, a nostalgic look back at the highlights of our unforgettable Galápagos journey.

This morning, after breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to the Galápagos Islands. But first, we have a meaningful stop at the Interpretation Center on San Cristobal Island. Here, you’ll delve into the human history of these enchanted islands, providing a perfect capstone to your Galápagos experience. Enjoy a short, pleasant walk along a paved trail before we head back to the seaside village. Ecoventura has arranged a comfortable, private VIP lounge where you can relax and enjoy refreshments before your transfer to the airport. Consider this your exclusive final Galápagos moment! Then, it’s a quick flight back to the mainland, carrying a lifetime of incredible Galápagos memories.

Once back on the mainland we’ll transfer to our hotel and have some time to freshen up before heading out to our final dinner. 

Accommodation:

4 or 5 star hotel in Quito (TBC)

Included:

dinner

non-premium drinks during dinner

Excluded:

breakfast & lunch

premium drinks

Today is sadly our departure day.   We will be including airport transfers on this day only.  If you wish to spend more time in Quito, we’ll also provide transportation to your next hotel, if necessary. 

Accommodation:

  N/A

Included:

breakfast

Excluded:

transfer to  airport or another hotel

lunch & dinner