Ecuador Travel Expert
About this tour
This super relaxed 11-day Galapagos Islands tour takes you to 2 islands. You will see the islands Santa Cruz and Daphne.
On Santa Cruz, this trip includes the volcano twin craters, the Darwin Station and the famous Turtle Beach. On this beach, turtles and iguanas relax in the sun. You can relax in the town called Puerto Ayora. Visit the local market and the harbor. Daphne is the place where wildlife thrives. Visit one of the richest marine experiences in the archipelago. See small and big fish swim in schools. Spot sharks and huge manta rays. Sea turtles and dolphins can also be seen on most visits. The Daphne experience finishes at the beach of Borrero Bay. Here you can relax, swim, snorkel and take pictures. Three of the eleven days have scheduled activities. 7 full days are free days to relax. Most travelers spend that downtime in Puerto Ayora or back on Turtle Beach.
Airport-hotel taxi service is included. After breakfast on day 11, your taxi will return you to the airport.
This trip is ideal for people who have 11 days available and want to take their time to recharge their batteries with free days at Santa Cruz island. Scheduled activities for exploration are present, but limited.
— Jonatan Chimarro, Ecuador Travel Expert
$7,896
- World-Class Snorkeling at Daphne Island! Experience exceptional snorkeling at Daphne Island, known for having the best variety of oceanic life in the Galápagos. Marvel at the abundance of marine vegetation and schools of fish that attract giant manta rays of 2 meters, black tip sharks, and colorful tropical fish. With pristine waters and minimal tourist traffic due to strict national park restrictions, this is one of the most exclusive and biodiverse marine environments you'll ever encounter.
- Giant Tortoises & Endemic Birds in the Santa Cruz Highlands! Explore the lush highlands of Santa Cruz, home to the largest population of giant tortoises in the Galápagos. Experience the dramatic climate and vegetation changes as you ascend from Puerto Ayora's coastal lowlands to this temperate and humid region. Look for endemic bird species like the patillo, pachay, and witch bird while walking through unique lava formations on private farms dedicated to endemic species.
- Tortuga Bay's Sea Turtles & Marine Iguanas! Walk alongside white sand beaches of Tortuga Bay. This bay is a crucial nesting site for sea turtles. It is one of the archipelago's most beautiful locations. Encounter nearby marine iguanas basking on the shore. Enjoy safe swimming and snorkeling in calm mangrove-protected waters after exploring the main bay's dramatic landscape.
- Charles Darwin Station! Visit the renowned Charles Darwin Research Station to learn about conservation efforts and endemic species protection. Explore the natural history museum and interact with native giant tortoises in controlled settings. Gain insights into Galápagos evolution and the critical wildlife protection initiatives that make these islands unique.
- Duration
- 11 days / 10 nights
- Group size
- 1–16 people
- Physical intensity
- Low
- Activities
- Animal Spotting, Hiking, Relax, Swimming
- Environment
- Beach, Island, Sea, Sun, Volcano
- Key wildlife
- Birds, Dolphins, Fish, Sharks, Turtles
- Best months
- January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
- Region
- Galapagos Islands
- Within the Galápagos Islands you get transport service between the airport and the hotel.
- A tour guide that is certified and knows the environment comes with you on every trip. The guide speaks English and Spanish.
- Hotel accommodation, including: private bathroom, breakfast, lunch, dinner and WiFi.
- Your tours are shared. This means other people can be present in the group during the tour.
- Flights to and from Galápagos.
- You must pay to enter the Galápagos National Park. It costs US$200 for each adult and US$100 for each child. You pay with cash when you land at the airport in the islands.
- You must pay US$20 for the Galápagos travel card. You pay with cash in Quito or Guayaquil, before you check in for your flight.
- Docking fees, several docking fees apply per Island. Prices are between 1 and 10 USD per person.
- Use of (water)taxis during your stay.
- Alcoholic beverages, personal expenses and tips.
- Travel, medical and cancellation insurance.
- Day 1
Welcome to the Galápagos
Upon your arrival at Baltra Airport, a guide will assist you to your Hotel. Along the way, you will have a stop at the impressive Gemelos volcanic craters. You will enjoy a unique lunch at the hotel restaurant featuring Ecuadorian and international cuisine. The day includes a visit to the Charles Darwin Station to observe exotic giant turtles. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at the restaurant.
- Day 2
Daphne Island Snorkeling Expedition
Embark on an exclusive guided excursion to Daphne Island, restricted by the National Park Service and rarely visited due to its pristine nature. Experience exceptional snorkeling at Piedra Ahogada where you will observe Galápagos sharks, frying pan rays, and sea turtles in crystal-clear waters. Then enjoy a landing on the beautiful beach of Borrero Bay with free time for swimming, snorkeling, or photography. Return to the hotel with lunch and dinner included.
- Day 3
Free Day to Relax & Explore
Spend the day at your own pace enjoying the Hotel. Explore the charming town of Puerto Ayora,. Visit local shops and restaurants. Relax on nearby beaches. All meals are provided at the hotel.
- Day 4
Free Day with Beach & Leisure
Another perfect day to unwind at your own rhythm. Enjoy the hotel, the sun, hidden beaches and the streets of Puerto Ayora.
- Day 5
Tortuga Bay & Highlands of Santa Cruz
Experience an unforgettable guided journey starting with a walk along pristine Tortuga Bay where you observe sea turtles nesting and marine iguanas basking on white sand beaches. After lunch and a restful break, explore the highlands of Santa Cruz. These highlands are home to the largest population of giant tortoises in the Galápagos. Spot endemic birds like the patillo and the, pachay. Walking through unique lava formations.
- Day 6
Free Day to Recharge & Reflect
Enjoy a peaceful day of rest after your island adventures and relax at your own pace. Spend time at the hotel. Explore Puerto Ayora or simply unwind on the beach.
- Day 7
Free Day in Personal Paradise
Your choice of activities or complete relaxation for the day. Enjoy the local restaurants in Puerto Ayora. Take optional guided activities, or simply unwind exactly as you wish. All meals are provided.
- Day 8
Free Day with Island Time
Continue enjoying the tranquility of the Galápagos at your own pace. Visit local attractions, take a spa treatment, explore tide pools, or spend the day with your favorite book poolside. All meals included.
- Day 9
Charles Darwin Station & Natural History
Visit the renowned Charles Darwin Research Station to learn about conservation efforts and endemic species protection. Explore the natural history museum and interact with native giant tortoises in controlled settings. Gain guided insights into Galápagos evolution and the critical wildlife protection initiatives. Spend the afternoon exploring local natural sites or relaxing at the hotel.
- Day 10
Goodbye Galápagos
After breakfast, your taxi picks you up and takes you to Baltra Airport. You leave with wonderful memories of your Galápagos adventure.
Not sure yet? Ask an expert
- Which boat and cabin suits you
- Best months for wildlife and weather
- Free advice, no obligation to book
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