Morocco Private (12 days)

Morocco Private (12 days)

DURATION

12 DAYS

BEST TIME

Mar-May
& Sep-Nov

DESTINATION

Morocco

TYPE

PRIVATE & CUSTOM

Morocco Private

Morocco offers an unparalleled cultural and natural diversity that, combined with its unbeatable hospitality, great roads, beautiful architecture, and superb cuisine, provides one of the greatest travel experiences in the world today.

This expedition brings you close contact with locals and nature: you will explore three of the Atlas mountain ranges, the Imperial cities, and the Atlantic coast. Of course, we can customize it for you.

Morocco is a destination that encompasses beautiful but sometimes lengthy drives. Our itinerary reduces those long drives to a minimum and increases the opportunities for off-the-beaten-path experiences. We are very proud of our Morocco Expedition and can’t wait for you to experience it!

We use first-class and award-winning riads and kasbahs, and spaces are limited. We highly recommend that you book soon.

WHAT MAKES THIS TRIP EXTRAORDINARY

  • The itinerary is the most complete offered today.
  • You will explore the Imperial cities, three Atlas ranges in Morocco, and its Atlantic coast.
  • Drive times have been reduced to their minimum, resulting in the best pacing possible.
  • We use first-class upscale Riads and Kasbahs for accommodations instead of modern hotels.

 

  • A Master Local Guide will accompany you along your trip to Morocco.
  • Become Berber on your visit to an authentic Berber town. 
  • Window seats when using 4×4 and 20% of empty seats when onboard tour busses are guaranteed.
  • This itinerary gives you plenty of free time in the most important cities to allow you to experience them firsthand.

“I love Morocco – it’s a real challenge to all five senses. You think you know something, and you don’t. It’s wonderful. It keeps you on your toes that way.”

– Amy Ryan

QUESTIONS?


If you have any questions, please let us know. We are here to help you!

The sample itinerary below can be customized to take full-advantage of your travel time and interests.

Itinerary in Brief

Day 1 
Arrive in Fes

Upon arrival in Fes, an NPE representative will pick you up and transfer you to your hotel.

Overnight at Palais Faraj or similar (Melas Aloft).

Day 2
Fes

Fes is considered to be not only the oldest royal city in Morocco but also one that has preserved its medieval architecture, flavor, and way of life.

You will begin the day visiting the ramparts, the perfect introduction to the culture and history of Fes. Your NPE Guide will take you through the city’s most fascinating portions. While the morning’s highlight will be a tour of the 14th-century Madrassa near the Karaouine Mosque, you will also explore the depths of the food and spice markets and perhaps enjoy a taste of the offerings at the public bakeries.

The old way of craftsmanship can be seen in the ateliers found throughout Fes, where you can watch the artisans at work. You will also see fountains, mosques, sanctuaries, and Islamic schools.

Fes cuisine is considered one of the best in all Morocco, and lunch today will allow you to taste some of its finest traditional dishes, from multiple delicate first courses to tanginess and light and tasty couscous. The restaurant itself is an architectural wonder.

The late 19th-century palace that was home to King Hassan I is our destination after lunch. It is now a museum displaying the traditional arts of the city.

We will then visit the Jewish quarter in the New Fez sector of the city, where we can admire the jewelry offered in the market and visit a 17th-century synagogue.

Dinner is on your own tonight, so you choose to visit one of the many superb restaurants in the city or stay in your hotel to enjoy its facilities and its cuisine (Wich is also great).

Overnight at Palais Faraj or similar (B, L).

Day 3 
To Rabat via Meknes and Volubilis

This morning, the northern Rif Mountains will accompany you on your drive to Meknes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Morocco’s youngest imperial city.

Meknes was founded in the 12th Century and was fully developed under Sultan Moulay Ismail, one of Morocco Meknes was founded in the 12th Century and was fully developed under Sultan Moulay Ismail, one of Morocco’s most powerful historical leaders. Despite his reputation as a ruthless warrior, the Sultan was also a passionate builder, and during his 55-year reign, he developed Meknes from a small town into a majestic capital with gigantic ramparts, monumental gates, more than 50 palaces, and 15 miles of exterior walls. You will see the impressive Bab el Mansour gateway and visit the ruins of the old stables and granaries.

Later we will reach Volubilis, the site of one of Rome’s African colonies, established during the first centuries of the Christian Era. Because of the area’s fertility, especially in olive cultivation, Volubilis in ancient times expanded and included a basilica and other public buildings. The surrounding villas were decorated with impressive mosaics that can be seen today. The partially excavated ruins of Volubilis are a World Heritage Site and provide excellent photo opportunities.

After our visit to Volubilis, you will be driven to Rabat where you will check in at your hotel.

Overnight at Riad Zyo in Rabat or similar (B, L).

Day 4
Rabat

Rabat is the capital of the Kingdom of Morocco and the residence of the King.

You will explore the fantastic Kasbah of Chellah. On this archaeological site, you will discover the remains of two civilizations: Sala Colonia, dating back to Roman times, and the Merinides Necropolis of the 14th Century.

Within the walls of the Kasbah, you will visit a delightful jewelry museum and an Andalusian garden, a part of the royal residence of the 17th Century. Continue to the Tour Hassan, the last vestige of an unfinished mosque from the late 12th Century.

Next, you will admire the Mohammed V Mausoleum, which is a place of exquisite contemplation.

The Mohammed V Mausoleum is one of the finest architectural monuments in Morocco, built as a memorial to this symbolic King of Morocco. Along your tour, you will visit the main gate of Bab Errouah, made in the 12th Century. The Kasbah Oudaia, occupied by Muslims evicted from Spain in the 17th Century, is a beautiful example of authentic Moorish design.

End your visit with a stroll in the park of the official royal palace, where you will see the royal guards at the residence’s entrance.

The rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore this imperial city and enjoy your hotel.

Overnight at Riad Zyo in Rabat or similar (B, L)

Day 5
To Marrakech via Casablanca, Hasan II Mosque

After breakfast, you will be driven to Casablanca, where you will enjoy a complete visit to the largest religious building in Africa, the Hassan II Mosque.

After an early lunch at the fort next to the mosque, you will continue to Marrakech (a 3-hour drive on a good highway) where you will check in at your hotel.

Later that day, around sunset time, visit Jemma el Fenna, the largest plaza in Africa. Enjoy a coffee or tea at one of the balconies that serve as restaurants while the activity picks up, and then walk with your guide to experience this unique and bustling site.

Overnight at Riad Al Maha or similar (B, L).

Day 6
Marrakech

This morning, enjoy a complete tour of Marrakech, including the main mosque, the Saadian tombs, and the souks. Before returning to your hotel, you will enjoy lunch and visit Yves Saint Laurent’s Jardin Majorelle and the Berber Museum.

Overnight at Riad Al Maha or similar (B, L).

Day 7
Your day at Marrakech

Marrakech is full of wonders, and we have left this day open for you to explore. Get lost in the souks for superb photos and shopping, visit some of the attractions that we didn’t cover during the city tour, and enjoy a superb cooking class at La Maison Arabe (optional), the options are plenty, and your guide will help you with recommendations.

Overnight at Riad Al Maha or similar (B).

Day 8
Berber Live in the Atlas Mountains 

Drive through the lush and dramatic Atlas landscapes for an unforgettable Berber experience and an eye-opening, hands-on experience (Drive time is around one hour to one hour and a half).

You will start your experience by baking bread and preparing tagine in the kitchen of a village family and getting to know them better over a pot of traditional mint.

While your tagine is simmering on a stove, you will take a walk through the alleyways to explore the village, meet locals, and discover ancestral activities still maintained by the Berber. You will assist farmers in their daily tasks, such as irrigating fields, herding sheep, or cutting grass. On the way, you will also join local artisans in their workshops, get hands-on in making local crafts, and get sufficient education on the necessary materials and the proper techniques for perfect craftsmanship.

After this fantastic experience, we will return to Marrakech.

Overnight Riad Al Maha or similar (B, L)

Day 9
To Coastal Essaouira

After breakfast, we will leave Marrakech and travel towards the Atlantic coast. Outside Essaouira, a stop at a women’s cooperative where they make Argan oil will provide insight into this valuable emollient. Essaouira has a reputation for having a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, and we will first enjoy our lunch here before going on a walking tour of the city.

As its location was ideal for taking advantage not only of seagoing traffic but also the inland Trans-Saharan trade routes, Essaouira has been a trading center since the time of the Phoenicians. The Portuguese occupied the area in the 16th Century, naming it Mogador.

We will begin our exploration of the city at the old Portuguese fort that guards the harbor.

Eventually falling into Muslim hands, Mogador was renamed Essaouira in 1760. The city has since attracted many foreigners and overseen the establishment of a large Jewish community. Essaouira eventually became Morocco’s international port and trading center.

The architecture is a blend of Portuguese and Moorish, and you will soon become aware that blue might be considered the ‘color theme’ of the city. Your guided tour will take you through the jewelry market, spice souks, and various artisan markets. You will visit carpentry workshops where the artisans turn cedar and thuya wood into beautifully made furniture. As in ancient times, Essaouira still attracts talented artists from different parts of the world.

Note: The total drive time for this day is 3 hours, but it will be broken with activity stops.

Overnight at Heure Bleue Essaouria (B, L).

Day 10
Essaouira

After breakfast, we will take a short drive south from Essaouira to Tizi Village. Our drive through the argan forest allows us to view some endemic bird species. Once at Tizi, we will have the opportunity to explore a rustic Berber market full of a wide variety of goods and furniture from the surrounding communities.

Later that day, you will return to Essaouira for lunch. the rest afternoon is yours in this beautiful relaxed town.

Ovyernight at Heure Bleue Essaouira (B, L).

Day 11
Essaouira / Oualidia / Casablanca

Today, you’ll go on a trip along the coast that will give you beautiful views.

After breakfast, our first stop will be the fishing village of Bhibih, where you can observe shorebirds. Then you will head to Safi Town, originally a Portuguese trading post in the 15th Century. Safi is famous for its unique ceramic workshops, where the skills and traditions of the craft are handed down through generations.

Oualidia is also on the coast and is an idyllic location with a beautiful beach and lagoons where oysters are bred. From Oualidia, we journey to El Jadida, another old Portuguese trading center, where we will enjoy lunch at the medina.

Our afternoon travel will continue along the coast, crossing the fertile lands of Zemmour, until we arrive in Casablanca, where you can enjoy dinner at the hotel or at one of the many great restaurants the city offers. (If you would like to have dinner at Rick’s Cafe, please let us know ASAP, as bookings must be made well in advance)

Overnight at Le Doge Hotel (B, L).

Day 12 

Flight back home

After breakfast at the Le Doge, you will be driven to the Casablanca Airport and assisted with check-in for your flight home.

Lodgings

Palais Faraj

Located right in the heart of Fes, Palais Faraj is the best option to stay in this beautiful city. Its privileged location provides the best view of the medina during your stay. Also, Palais Faraj has a Spa that will help you relax after a full day of experiences and activities in Morocco. Its restaurant will allow you to try the best of Morrocan cuisine while enjoying the views from the terrace.

Riad Zyo

Located right in the heart of the beautiful and unique city of Rabat, Riad Zyo will be our base hotel, from where we will explore the most important attractions of Rabat.

This fantastic riad maintains traditional architecture and ornaments, creating a romantic environment perfect for resting after long days of exploring the wonders of Morocco.

Riad Zyo serves a traditional Moroccan breakfast and is near restaurants that serve both local and traditional seafood.

Riad Al Maha

The luxurious hotel riad Almaha Marrakech combines centuries-old Moroccan craftsmanship with modern art in rhythm to create the beauty of order and is a haven for indulgent artists.

Almaha is an excellent place to explore the mysteries of the medina, with its strange souks and busy squares, and to see the desert and the Atlas mountains outside of the red city.

Set in the heart of The Kasbah, Marrakech’s oldest neighborhood, the best tourist attractions and all located near this fantastic hotel. From here, you will be near the beautiful Saadian tombs, the outstanding Koutoubia Mosque, the unique Jemaa el-Fna Square with its smoky food stalls, magicians, musicians, and snake charmers, and the fantastic Jewish neighborhood of Mellah.

Heure Bleue Essaouira

The Heure Bleue Palais isn’t an average hotel. It is a historic home with men and women serving their guests. Like a pearl in an extraordinary location,  the Heure Bleue Palais welcomes you to Essaouira. This palace, located in the center of the historic Mogador’s harbor, is dedicated to the well-being of its visitors throughout its history and has an active role in Essaoira’s society. The hotel hosts major cultural, musical, and sports events that punctuate the Souirie year, being an important hub for Morrocan culture.

Le Doge Relais & Chateaux

Hôtel & Spa Le Doge is a luxury 5-star “Relais & Châteaux” establishment located a few steps from the Sacre Coeur Cathedral. Rooms are cozy and carefully decorated to create a warm atmosphere that makes you feel like in a cocoon.

At the “Jasmine” restaurant, you will be able to enjoy a traditional and tasty Moroccan cuisine with authentic flavors.

If you wish to enjoy a drink, a library bar with a superb chimney offers an intimate space. You also have the option to visit the new roof floor lounge bar with an incredible view over the white city. If you need relaxation time, you will find a wellness area including a hammam, a steam room, and also the possibility to have a relaxing massage.

When to go

The best time to visit Morocco is during spring (mid-March to May) or autumn (September to October). The weather is warm but pleasant, unlike the cold temperatures and snow of winter, or the scorching heat of summer.

The coastal regions can be visited year-round. In the winter they are pleasantly mild, while in the summer they bask in temperatures hovering around the mid-20°Cs.

The High Atlas Mountains can also be visited all year round, although it does get cold in winter. The summer may still be a bit hot to embark on any long-distance hikes, but if the heat doesn’t bother you then conditions are fine any time between April and October. Outside these months, there is snow on the peaks, which makes hiking more dangerous, but creates some spectacular panoramas.

The Islamic festival of Ramadan will affect transport in Morocco. The dates vary each year, so it’s worth checking what they are while planning your trip.

QUESTIONS?

If you have any questions, please let us know. The NPE expedition advisors are here to help.

START YOUR ADVENTURE HERE:

Recommended Expeditions

Guatemala Private

Guatemala Private

DURATION

10 DAYS

WHEN

Nov – April

DESTINATION

Guatemala

TYPE

PRIVATE

Guatemala 

When visiting Guatemala, ambitious travelers may find their schedules quite busy. Some of the spectacular adventures that await in this fantastic country include breathtaking trekking routes through the rainforest and up volcanoes, world-class water rafting, kayaking with stunning volcano views, and picturesque villages and markets.

There are plenty of Spanish colonial buildings and old Maya archaeological sites for history buffs to explore, including the outstanding Tikal.

This program can be fully customized to your needs and interests, do not hesitate to contact us to craft your perfect Guatemala experience.

WHAT MAKES THIS TRIP EXTRAORDINARY

  • Explore the picturesque Antigua and its most important archeological sites.
  • Experience a close encounter with locals in a cooking class.
  • Hike up to the active Palcayo mountain to enjoy a panoramic view of Guatemala and enjoy a picnic lunch with a distant view of the crater.
  • Visit and stay on the banks of the beautiful Lake Atitlan, and stop in Iximche, a unique Maya archeological site.
  • Kayak in the Atitlan Lake and enjoy the views of three stunning volcanos: Atitlan, San Pedro, and Tolima.
  • Visit the tiny San Juan village and get in touch with their local artisans.
  • Stop at the Chichicastenango Market, one of the most colorful markets in the Americas.
  • Sail along Rio Dulce and look for fantastic wildlife on its banks.
  • Visit the unique Ak’ Tenamit, a colonial fortress used to expulse pirates out of the Guatemala shores.
  • Experience a unique moment: Tikal at sunrise and at sunset plus farewell dinner, the perfect match to finish this amazing expedition in Guatemala.

«Live with no excuses and travel with no regrets.»

Unknown

QUESTIONS?


If you have any questions, please let us know. We are here to help you!

Itinerary in Brief

Day 1 

Arrive in Guatemala & transfer to Antigua

Upon your arrival in Guatemala, an NPE representative will meet and greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel in beautiful Antigua (1 hr. drive).

Antigua is among the world’s best-preserved colonial cities in the Americas. It is a mysterious and alluring tiny village that gives the impression that time may have stood still 300 years ago. The colonial architecture and stunning surroundings will attract you as you meander through the town on the cobblestone streets.

Overnight at El Convento (No meals).

Day 2

Antigua walking tour & community cooking class

After breakfast, enjoy a guided walking tour of Antigua. You will visit breathtaking colonial monuments and find out why this city was the bustling center of the region for the Spaniards. You will start your tour at the central plaza, and your expedition leader will give you a general idea about colonization, Guatemala’s history & contemporary issues.

View the main buildings (Palacio de Capitanes, City Hall, and El Portal), and visit the backstage Cathedral & Cathedral Ruins and San Francisco Church.

Stop for lunch at a local restaurant.

Afterward, hop on a private transfer to San Miguel Escobar Town. On arrival, you will head towards the house of a Guatemalan family to test your cooking skills by preparing a traditional Guatemalan dish at a real Guatemalan home. Enjoy for dinner the fruits of your labor.

Overnight at El Convento (B, L, D)

Day 3 

Pacaya Volcano hike

After breakfast, you will head towards the Pacaya volcano.

One of three active volcanoes in Guatemala, Pacaya Volcano, is situated not far from Guatemala City and rises to 2,552m (8,373ft). It has been active since 1965, occasionally more spectacularly than other times, following a period of hibernation. The Pacaya National Park, established in 2001, and the trailhead in the little community of San Francisco de Sales are both around an hour’s drive from Antigua.

During your hike, you will enjoy panoramic views of Pacaya’s smoking black cone, and miles of ancient blackened lava flows from the about 2-mile-long, slightly steep but well-maintained trail through farmlands and pine forests.

The journey continues onto the desolate moonscape of the lava flows, where you can make Guatemalan-style smores by roasting marshmallows over hot places and stop for a picnic lunch with a distant view of the crater.

Afterward, you will return to Antigua to rest and have dinner at a local restaurant.

Overnight at El Convento (B, L, D).

Day 4

Iximche visit & transfer to Lake Atitlan

After breakfast, your driver will transfer you from Antigua to Lake Atitlan (approx 3hrs).

En route to Lake Atitlan, you’ll visit Iximche archeological site. The Western Highlands of Guatemala is home to the Post Classic Mayan site of Iximche. It was established in 1,470 by the Kaqchikel Maya following a protracted struggle with the Quiche. It served as the Late Pre-classic Kaqchikel kingdom’s capital from 1470 until the arrival of the Spaniards in 1524, when it was abandoned.

After visiting this unique archaeological site, you will stop for lunch at a local restaurant and continue your journey to your hotel located at the banks of Lake Atitlan.

You will have time to relax and get ready for dinner, served at your hotel.

Overnight at Hotel Atitlan (B, L, D).

Day 5

Kayak & San Juan village visit

Your expedition leader will meet you for a boat transfer to the kayaking starting point. Kayak for approx 45min along delightful peninsulas admiring the shore’s beautiful gardens and the panoramic views of three stunning volcanoes: Atitlan, San Pedro, and Toliman.

After the kayaking, you will be transferred by boat to the picturesque San Juan village. San Juan is famous for its naïf art galleries, town murals, and natural dyes. This town is set as an example of an organization and tourism destination among the highlands.

Stop at a local restaurant for dinner.

Overnight at Hotel Atitlan (B, L, D).

Day 6

Chichicastenango Market & transfer to Guatemala City

Transfer to Guatemala City (approx 4hrs).

En route to Guatemala City, you’ll stop at Chichicastenango.

Chichicastenango is home to the most colorful native market in the Americas. Market days are held every Sunday and Thursday and draw not only the K’iche’ Maya of the surrounding region but vendors from all over Guatemala, representing many of Guatemala’s linguistic groups, such as Mam, Ixil, Kaqchikel, and many others.

On arrival in Guatemala, you will meet your new expedition leader. They will show you the church in the heart of Guatemala City, an essential and iconic monument for indigenous and Mayan history.

If we’re lucky, you will also witness special ceremonies and a mix of religions.

Stop at a local restaurant for dinner.

Overnight at Hyatt Centric. (B, L, D).

Day 7

Private transfer to Rio Dulce (approx 5hrs).

Stop for lunch at a local restaurant.

Rio Dulce is a navigable river that begins in Lake Izabal and empties into the Atlantic Ocean. Rio Dulce has become an ideal destination to navigate due to the magical journey through the canyon, which was part of the route of commerce of the Mayas. It has a fantastic view when browsing through the cliffs over 300 feet high and is covered with tropical vegetation.

Upon arrival at your hotel, you will have free time to rest before heading to a local restaurant for dinner.

Overnight at Villa Caribe (B, L, D).

Day 8

Rio Dulce boat tour & transfer to Flores

Today, you will experience an early boat tour through the impressive Rio Dulce.

You will travel via “EL Golfete,” the broader section of the Rio Dulce (sweet river), where the Chocon Machaca park and the floating gardens are situated. This area is known for its wide variety of wildlife and flora.

Along the journey, you’ll also stop at Ak’Tenamit, a local cooperative that has used sustainable practices to help the village with healthcare and education. Situated between “El Golfete” and Livingston is a stunning canyon with limestone and jungle-covered walls.

Afterward, you will stop at Livingston, the sole town in Guatemala where the Garifunas settled in the 1800s. You won’t find a similar atmosphere anywhere else in the nation. Livingston is a laid-back city that will make you feel like you are in the Caribbean rather than Latin America.

After the boat tour, a private transfer to Flores Island (approx 4hrs).

Upon arrival, relax and enjoy dinner at the hotel.

Overnight at Jungle Lodge. (B, L, D)

Day 9

Tikal sunrise & sunset

You will wake up early to experience a magical moment: Tikal at sunrise.

On arrival at Tikal National Park, you’ll walk and climb temple IV to watch a fantastic sunrise, a truly magical experience.

After witnessing this stunning dawn, our expedition leader will guide us through this beautiful archaeological site, showing us the main temples.

Afterward, we will enjoy breakfast on-site before returning to our hotel.

Once in the hotel, we will have some free time to explore the town or simply leisure before returning to the National Park.
We will be transferred to the National Park once again to start a walking tour through the dense jungle to “Mundo Perdido” just in time for sunset.

After this fantastique and unique experience, we will return to the hotel for our farewell dinner with lots of new stories of this fantastic experience.

Overnight at Jungle Lodge. (B, L, D).

Day 10

Flight to Guatemala City & departure
Today, after breakfast, transfer to the airport and fly back to the U.S. or continue to the Belice Extension

Belice Extension

Day 11

Transfer to Belice

Transfer to the Belize Border. At the border, you will cross on your own, and a different vehicle will meet you on the Belizean side.

After crossing the border, you will be met by your driver for transfer to your hotel (approx 2hrs).

Please note that an NPE Senior Local Guide will escort the extension.

Overnight at Cassia Hell Resort Belize. (B)

Day 12

Xunantunich & Cahal Pech

On this day, you will be transferred to Xunantunich Archeological Site. Enjoy a guided tour through the site, visiting the most important monuments. El Castillo’s structure rises 130 feet above the ground, making it one of the highest buildings in Belize, offering an impressive panoramic view of the Mopan River valley. From this structure, you will be able to appreciate a lower temple, a large stucco frieze, as well as a mask with larger ears next to a moon sign with a border of signs representing Venus.

After the Xunantunich visit, transfer to Cahal Pech archeological site.

Cahal Pech means “place of ticks” in the modern Maya language and refers to the fact that the area was surrounded once by pastureland. During the Classic Period, Cahal Pech was the royal acropolis-palace of an elite Mayan ruling family. Cahal Pech was settled around 1000 BC and abandoned by 800 AD. The site consists of seven plazas and over 30 structures, including temples, residential buildings, ball courts, an altar, and a sweathouse, all situated on just 2 acres. A royal burial chamber was found in one of the structures. Inside the tomb, a ruler had been laid to rest with the accouterments necessary for the afterlife. Included in the find were shell & bone ornaments, pottery vessels, obsidian blades, and jade objects, the most impressive being a jade & shell mosaic mask. One of the temples in this small complex commands the best view of the surrounding Belize River Valley. 

Overnight at Cassia Hill Resort Belize. (B, L).

Day 13

Transfers to Belize City & flight to San Pedro

Transfer to Belize City (approx 2hrs).

A hotel representative will meet you at San Pedro Airstrip to help you carry your luggage to the hotel, located 5 minutes from the airstrip.

Upon arrival in San Pedro, an NPE representative will pick you up and transfer you to your hotel. You will enjoy a leisure day or sign up for the activities in the hotel surroundings. 

Overnight at Sunbreeze (B).

Day 14

San Pedro
Enjoy a day at leisure to explore on your own or sign up for the activities in the hotel surroundings.
Overnight at Sunbreeze (B).

Day 15

Fly Back Home
After breakfast, an NPE representative will transfer you to the airstrip to catch your flight back home.

Lodgings

El Convento

Located in the heart of the historic yet vibrant city of La Antigua, inscribed by Unesco as Cultural World Heritage since 1979, El Convento Boutique Hotel is a door to a majestic experience, inside and out, with its contemporary colonial architecture and premises and world-class services, surrounded by the spectacle of a diverse community that throbs with activity in 300-year-old churches, plazas, and markets.

Hotel Atitlan

Hotel Atitlán has the best views of the lake. A property with fantastic gardens, birds, and a great place to stay when visiting the lake. Each room has a unique personality that is reflected in the decor of hand-woven fabrics, hand-crafted furniture, paintings, and other decorations from the many indigenous villages in the region. The floors are made of traditional tile and covered by hand-made area rugs.

Hyatt Centric

Located just minutes away from the airport, this modern hotel offers 138 rooms and suites, each complete with floor-to-ceiling views of Guatemala City or our atrium. The hotel is decorated with Guatemalan pieces and textiles in a chic style. Hyatt also has a pool, rooftop bar, restaurant, meeting spaces, and more.

Villa Caribe

Located in Livingston, a colorful fishing town where the Caribbean Sea meets with Rio Dulce and home to the Garifunas, a culture rich in African traditions, is Villa Caribe. Its 47 bedrooms are surrounded by gardens and beautiful views toward the Caribbean Sea and Rio Dulce. Enjoy a white sand oasis covered in rich tropical vegetation.

Jungle Lodge

The Jungle Lodge Hotel was established in 1956 by Mr. Antonio Ortiz Contreras (the one who discovered the temple of the inscriptions in 1951), just a 10-minute walk from the ceremonial center of Tikal. It has a restaurant, bar, swimming pool, gift shops, Wi-Fi connections, and conference rooms. It has been under constant renovation in order to adjust to modern standards of comfort and hospitality.

Cassia Hill Resort Belize

Cassia Hill is a full-service Belize Resort conveniently located just minutes out of San Ignacio Town, yet far enough to still enjoy a true jungle experience. Its proximity to most tourist attractions makes Cassia Hill Resort the perfect base to experience all the adventures this area offers.

Sunbreeze

SunBreeze Hotel is located in the town of San Pedro on Ambergris Caye. This beautiful hotel has a U-shaped Spanish design with Caribbean elements. It’s surrounded by tropical gardens, and an incredible beach just steps away from your room. SunBreeze hotel offers 43 spacious air-conditioned bedrooms, an onsite restaurant, a pool, and complimentary morning coffee.

When to go

The dry season, from November to April, is the ideal time to visit Guatemala. However, with temperatures ranging from 72°F to 90°F, the nation enjoys a comfortable environment that encourages travel all year long.

Even during the rainy season (May to October), the main tourist regions only see a few hours of daily precipitation.

The days are gorgeous and warm in the highlands, but the nights are chilly. Around Tikal, the lowlands are typically warm all year round (79°F to 90°F), with humidity rising in May.

We advise against traveling in September and October if you plan to visit Belize’s beaches. During that period, the rain there will be more disruptive and less enjoyable for activities like snorkel, diving, etc.

QUESTIONS?


If you have any questions, please let us know. We are here to help you!

START YOUR ADVENTURE HERE:

Recommended Expeditions

Galapagos Elite Catamaran (8 Cabins)

Galapagos Elite Catamaran (8 Cabins)

DURATION

MULTIPLE
DAYS

WHEN

ALL YEAR

DESTINATION

GALAPAGOS
ECUADOR

TYPE

CHARTER &
PER CABIN

Galapagos Elite

The Elite, the islands’ newest yacht, arrives on the clear seas of the Galapagos Islands to redefine luxury, comfort, and style!

The Galapagos Elite was created to navigate the enchanted islands’ sapphire waters. It is a sleek, twin-hulled catamaran that offers passengers a smooth, safe ride without the rocking and swaying typical of the older, single-hulled yachts that predominated the island cruise sector for decades.

The Elite’s design offers excellent stability and more room for everything on board, including a panoramic social interior, outdoor areas, and panoramic suites. All ages can enjoy the spacious, partially covered sky deck, the outdoor dining area, and the inviting bar salon.

After a day of visiting the islands, the Galapagos Elite’s suites are the ideal location to unwind and rejuvenate. They are all roomy, cozy, and well-appointed. Each suite offers a private outdoor terrace, a bathroom, and an ocean view.

In contrast to the earlier yachts’ bulky, circular porthole windows, the Elite’s enormous windows with panoramic vistas are a signature element of each suite. Consider them more as a wall of tempered glass with a door leading to your balcony than windows, if that makes any sense. A distinct and breathtaking Galapagos seascape will be present every morning and every afternoon!

Technical Specifications 

  • Category: Luxury
  • Operating as of June 2019
  • Length & Beam: 123.03 ft x 42.29 ft
  • Draft to Baseline: 6.23 ft
  • Max number of guests: 16
  • Crew: 10 + 1 Service Officer + 1 Naturalist
  • Propulsion: 2 x Marine Generator Drive Engines – 550 HP each
  • Suite Sizes (Including balconies): 398 ft2
  • Suites Locations: 4 on the Main Deck + 4 on the Upper Deck + 1 Single on the Upper Deck
  • Single Cabin Size: 204.5 ft2
  • Electricity 110 V and 220 V
  • Charter Includes: Hotel Overnights and Airport Transfers in Quito or Guayaquil cities.
  • Extensions to the Amazon and Machu Picchu are available

The ship’s size allowed our whole party to disembark at all sites together, which made a big difference!

Charles C. – CO

QUESTIONS?


If you have any questions, please let us know. We are here to help you!

Ship Description

On board the Elite, the eight Panoramic Suites are airy and comfortable. Four are on the main deck, and the rest are on the top deck. 

Each suite has a balcony, personalized marine air conditioning control, and panoramic views of the islands, thanks to their floor-to-ceiling/wall-to-wall windows.

Each suite can be set with a matrimonial king-size bed or two separate twin beds, and they also include a desk, a small seating area, a closet, a sofa bed, and a private bathroom with hot running water.

The Elite’s main deck, at its front, has a briefing area for lectures and briefings. It offers plenty of information about traveling through the Galapagos Islands through movies, books, and personal advice.

While cruising, travelers can enjoy delectable cuisine while taking in panoramic views of the islands from the panoramic interior passenger lounge and dining room.

Passengers may board and exit the catamaran from two platforms, making access to the vessel incredibly simple.

Our upper deck is accessible to passengers through inside stairs. There are four suites, a sun deck, and a private gathering place where guests can unwind and watch wildlife. A single cabin with a balcony is also available on the Elite.

The Elite’s top levels are also accessible to passengers via our outdoor stairs.

The Endemic has an outdoor dining space, bar, outdoor passenger lounge, jacuzzi, sun chair, and seating area on the Sky Deck.

While admiring the islands, excellent drinks are served on an open-shaded deck.

Deck Plans

Food & Drinks

Breakfast and lunch are provided buffet-style on board the Elite, and dinner will be based on a delectable menu and buffet, depending on the food specialist’s choices.

The passengers’ choice will be prepared for supper by our top-notch cruise service officer.

Any kind of special dietary needs must be communicated in advance to New Paths Expeditions.

Based on our guests’ nutritional needs, tastes, and traditions, we are adaptable and willing to produce unique and always delectable meals for them.

Itineraries & Activities

Itinerary 7 Nights, A

Day 1
AM: Arrive at San Cristobal airport

Upon Arrival, an NPE representative will pick you up from the airport and transfer you to your vessel.

PM: El Junco Lagoon

In the afternoon, you will start a short hike to reach the rim of the El Junco Lagoon, a spectacular crater lake situated in the mountains of San Cristobal island, and climb the rocky road surrounded by lush vegetation and wildlife. The island is beautifully viewed from here, and you can frequently see frigate birds diving into the clear water below to take a bath.

Day 2
AM: North Seymour

In the morning, visit North Seymour, a little island named after Lord Hugh Seymour, who received the island as a gift from a senior British Royal Navy officer. There, you will see a wide range of birds, such as blue-footed boobies, swallow-tailed gulls, and a sizable population of frigate birds while strolling amid the low, thick foliage. Keep an eye out for the magnificent, brilliant crimson chests the male frigates utilize to entice a mate.

PM: Santa Cruz Dragon Hill

In the afternoon, visit Dragon Hill. Galapagos land iguanas have established a sizable population here. You will undoubtedly come across some amazing creatures that resemble small dragons as you travel along the rocky shoreline and through the forests of cacti and Palo Santo trees. The coral draws much colorful fish close to the coast during high tide, making this a great place to snorkel.

Day 3
AM: Tintoreras / Sierra Negra Volcano

After breakfast, you will head to Las Tintoreras chain of islets, distinguished by their dark lava deposits, which have produced a special home for diverse fauna. As a result, it is an excellent location for water sports like panga rides, snorkeling, kayaking, or paddle boarding. Visitors are frequently treated to up-close encounters with turtles, sharks, penguins, and sea lions.

The Sierra Negra contains the second-largest caldera in the world and is one of the Galapagos Islands’ most active volcanoes. Guava tree forests may be found on your ascent to the caldera’s summit, and on a clear day, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the island’s other five volcanoes.

PM: Arnaldo Tupiza Breeding Center / Isabela Wetlands

We will visit the most important giant tortoise breeding center in the Galapagos at noon.

To increase the population of these amazing creatures, two species of giant tortoises are raised at the Arnaldo Tupiza Breeding Center, which is crucial to safeguarding the future of the Galapagos. You may also take in the lovely gardens, which boast a wide variety of local flora, while you go about the center.

You can also go for a stroll in the Isabela wetlands, a collection of lagoons, swamps, and mangroves that have become a haven for migratory birds like stilts and flamingos outside of Puerto Villamil.

Day 4
AM: Isabela / Moreno Point

After breakfast, we will visit Moreno Point, located west of Isabela Island. At first, glance appears to be a barren lava flow. However, a trip along one of the trails soon exposes an abundance of gorgeous green lagoons and mangroves, making it an excellent location to watch penguins, blue herons, and flamingos.

White-tip sharks and green sea turtles can also be seen while snorkeling or taking a panga ride along the rocky shore.

PM: Isabela Island  Urbina Bay

In the afternoon, we will visit the Urbina Bay, located at the foot of the Alcedo Volcano and is the result of a major volcanic uplift that took place in 1954 and resulted in 6km of the coral reef being lifted out of the ocean. Walking along this new shore, you can observe the corals and remains of marine life stranded due to this event. However, it is now home to giant land iguanas and giant tortoises, and it is often an excellent spot to see Galapagos hawks and flightless cormorants. It is also ideal for snorkeling as turtles, rays, and tropical fish frequent the coastline.

Day 5
AM: Fernandina / Espinosa Point

In the morning and after breakfast, we will visit Fernandina Island, the youngest island in the Galapagos, where we will explore the Espinosa point, a place of natural beauty. There, you will observe marine iguanas feeding underwater by snorkeling and swimming.

At the Espinosa point, you can frequently find a lot of colorful Sally Lightfoot crabs in great numbers on the rocks. Walking pathways on land allow you to see the intriguing mangrove plants, lava cactus, and spectacular black lava rocks where marine iguanas like to sunbathe.

PM: Isabela / Vicente Roca Point

You will visit Vicente Rica Point in the afternoon and after lunch. The Vicente Roca Point, which is reachable by panga and is located on Isabela island’s northwestern shore, is a stunning big bay with two coves that serve as nesting locations for blue-footed and Nazca boobies, gulls, storm petrels, and Brown Noddy Terns.

The cooler waters here provide plenty of food for marine life, and it’s usual to observe groups of whales, dolphins, sea lions, and marine birds feeding themselves while snorkeling.

Day 6
AM: Rabida

After breakfast, you will head to Rabida Island. This beautiful island is known for its dark red sand beach, framed by cliffs and steep volcanic slopes covered in Palo Santo trees and unique cacti. Blue-footed and Nazca boobies can be seen on a panga ride around the coastline, while water sports like snorkeling, kayaking, or paddle boarding are excellent for observing white-tipped sharks and rays.

Rabida hosts sea lion colonies on its beaches, and on land, we can find Mockingbirds, yellow warblers, and all nine Darwin finches, making this island a must in your voyage to Galapagos.

PM: Bartholomew Island

In the afternoon, you will visit Bartholomew island. Pinnacle Rock, a massive volcanic cone, is the most well-known feature of the islet Bartholomew Island, which is part of Sullivan Bay. Spectacular views of Pinnacle Rock and the surrounding lava flows may be seen from a viewpoint at the island’s summit, which is reached by a hiking trek.

While snorkeling, it’s possible to see reef sharks, penguins, spotted eagle rays, and green sea turtles along the northern beach.

Day 7
AM: Kicker Rock / Witch Hill

You will visit Kicker Rock in the morning. An iconic feature of the Galapagos, Kicker Rock, was created over time by the erosion of the volcano’s extinct cone. Additionally, when the ship navigates around the rock formation, blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds, and sea lions are frequently perched on the ledges above. This provides an excellent sight for taking beautiful images.

You will proceed to Witch Hill after seeing Kicker Rock. Witch Hill has a beautiful white sand beach reachable by panga and offers a great vantage point for visiting Kicker Rock in the island’s south. The hill is an eroded tuff cone, and the calm waters at its base make for an excellent snorkeling location.

Meanwhile, there are opportunities to see various coastal birds, finches, and mockingbirds on a walk along the beach or on one of the inland routes.

PM: Giant Tortoises’ Reserve, off San Cristobal

The largest hike on San Cristobal is the Giant Tortoise Reserve, which you will visit after lunch. The route is around 5 kilometers long and may be pretty warm.

This is a great location to see giant tortoises in their natural environment. Six thousand gigantic tortoises live at San Cristobal; hundreds of them can be spotted alongside other endemic species like lava lizards and mockingbirds on a good day.

The opportunity to see sea turtles and tintoreras (white-tipped reef sharks) makes snorkeling a fantastic activity and a great chance to see Sea turtles nest on the sand.

Day 8
AM: San Cristobal Interpretation Center

The interpretation center gives a broad picture of the island’s intriguing past. The three main areas of emphasis—natural history, human history, and conservation for the future—are covered in various expositions.

Afterward, get transferred to the airport to catch your flight back home.

Itinerary 7 Nights, B

Day 1
AM: Arrival at San Cristobal Airport

Upon Arrival, an NPE representative will pick you up from the airport and transfer you to your vessel.

PM: David Rodriguez Breeding Center

The history and evolution of the giant tortoise are explained during a tour of the David Rodriguez Breeding Center, which also illustrates why preserving these fantastic animals’ future is so important.

Baby tortoises are being raised in semi-natural settings on the reserve’s trails. This is a beautiful example of the locals’ dedication to protecting the biodiversity that makes the Galapagos Islands unique.

Day 2
AM: Española / Suarez Point

Suarez Point is teeming with wildlife, and the circular walking track is the greatest way to explore it. During this enjoyable stroll, you will pass vast Nazca colonies, blue-footed, and mockingbird nests. Along with the red and green marine iguanas, Espaola Island is home to the stunning waved albatross, which may be seen majestically flinging itself out across the ocean from the cliffs.

A geological highlight is a group of blow holes that may discharge water 25 meters into the air and make for amazing pictures.

PM: Gardner Bay, Gardner, and Osborn Islet

While kayaking or paddle boarding is an excellent opportunity to watch the numerous waved albatross that utilize this beach as a nesting site, Gardner Bay’s immaculate white sand beach is lined with sea lions. It makes for the ideal place to unwind.

You may snorkel with baby sea lions and a variety of colorful tropical fish and corals in the Gardner and Osborn Islets, which are easily accessible by panga.

Day 3
Floreana – Cormorant Ponit / Champion Islet

Two distinct beaches can be found at Cormorant Point: one with pristine white sand (often referred to as «Flour Beach») made from crushed coral, and the other with green-tinted sand because of the high concentration of olivine crystals.

One of the greatest populations of Galapagos flamingos and other shorebirds like stilts, white-cheeked pintails, and large-billed flycatchers frequent the saltwater lagoon, making it a must-see.

A panga ride offers an excellent option for snorkeling to Champion Islet, an extinct shield volcano renowned for having a large variety of fish.

PM: Post Office Bay / The Baroness’ Lookout

An artificial location called Post Office Bay provides information about a fascinating mailing custom that was started by British whalers in the 18th century and is still used today. You may go kayaking or snorkeling on this beach and enter a lava tube and stroll through it.

Afterward, take a panga ride to the Baroness’ Lookout. This volcanic rock structure is named for an Australian baroness who visited the island in the 1930s and is thought to have vanished without a trace. A short route takes you to a fantastic vantage point with expansive views of the mangroves and shores nearby.

Day 4
AM: Baltra / Mosquera Islet

Between Baltra and North Seymour islands is the small, sandy Mosquera islet. The stunning surroundings can be explored on foot without restriction due to the lack of a set track. Here, you will come across many sea lions, shorebirds, and the spectacular Sally Lightfoot crabs that cling to the black rocks.

It’s a great place for snorkeling and spotting various marine life, including sharks, turtles, and rays, thanks to the abundance of coral reefs.

PM: Charles Darwin Research Station

The Charles Darwin Research Station offers a fantastic opportunity to learn about the crucial work to protect the archipelago’s ecosystems.

This includes a significant breeding operation for Galapagos tortoises, whose population has been declining since the 1970s.

Bring your camera along for some up-close shots of these fascinating big reptiles because they are very accustomed to people.

Day 5
AM: Genovesa – Prince Philip’s Steps / El Barranco

A steep staircase called El Barranco, also known as Prince Philip’s Steps, will take you past a Nazca and red-footed booby colony and up to a plateau of dried lava. Visitors are frequently treated to sights of storm petrels launching out over the ocean as they continue through the sparse Palo Santo forest and look out over the plain.

You have a decent chance of spotting the rare Galapagos fur seals snuggled on the rocks by taking a panga ride or kayaking or paddleboarding along the edge of the cliffs and snorkeling is a terrific activity if you want to go swimming with different kinds of sharks.

PM: Genovesa – Darwin Bay

A tiny stretch of sand and coral beach in Darwin Bay is ideal for snorkeling, kayaking, or paddle boarding in quiet, protected waters with hammerhead sharks, rays, and an abundance of colorful reef species. The Nazca and red-footed boobies, swallow-tailed gulls, and other land bird species can be found in the mangroves and tidal lagoon along the shore.

The walk ends at a viewpoint with an incredible view of the cliffs and the bay below.

Day 6
AM: Santiago – Espumilla Beach / Buccaneer Cove

Espumilla, which translates to «meringue,» refers to the surreal trail of foam that the waves leave as they lap this lovely white sand beach. The vividly colored Sally Lightfoot crabs that are abundant here draw pelicans, hawks, and other raptors like herons and eagles. This serene location on Santiago Island’s northern coast offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance for snorkeling and swimming among various aquatic life, including octopi, eels, and sharks.

Over the years, pirates, buccaneers, and whalers have frequented Buccaneer Cove. Today, it is an essential location for turtle nesting and is well-liked by sea lions, sting rays, and turtles. An amazing location for snorkeling and enjoying the views of its majestic rock formations.

PM: Santiago – Egas Port

James Bay, also known as Egas port, is the habitat of quick-footed Galapagos lava lizards. There are tide pools and caves filled with various marine animals. Egas Port is One of the top snorkeling locations in the Galapagos by far.

Day 7
AM: Santa Cruz – Bachas Beach

You will visit Kicker Rock in the morning. An iconic feature of the Galapagos, Kicker Rock, was created over time by the erosion of the volcano’s extinct cone. Additionally, when the ship navigates around the rock formation, blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds, and sea lions are frequently perched on the ledges above. This provides an excellent sight for taking beautiful images.

You will proceed to Witch Hill after seeing Kicker Rock. Witch Hill has a beautiful white sand beach reachable by panga and offers a great vantage point for visiting Kicker Rock in the island’s south. The hill is an eroded tuff cone, and the calm waters at its base make for an excellent snorkeling location.

Meanwhile, there are opportunities to see various coastal birds, finches, and mockingbirds on a walk along the beach or on one of the inland routes.

The largest hike on San Cristobal is the Giant Tortoise Reserve, which you will visit after lunch. The route is around 5 kilometers long and may be pretty warm.

This is a great location to see giant tortoises in their natural environment. Six thousand gigantic tortoises live at San Cristobal; hundreds of them can be spotted alongside other endemic species like lava lizards and mockingbirds on a good day.

The opportunity to see sea turtles and tintoreras (white-tipped reef sharks) makes snorkeling a fantastic activity and a great chance to see Sea turtles nest on the sand.

PM: Twin craters and the Highlands of Santa Cruz

The remains of a rusty boat assumed to have been abandoned by the Americans during World War I, may be seen on Bachas Beach, a gorgeous white sand beach. If you go snorkeling there, you might share the water with these magnificent animals because it is a favorite turtle breeding location.

Sally Lightfoot, hermit crabs, and stunning pink flamingos that visit the saline water lagoon behind are also abundant on the beach.

Day 8
AM: Lobos Island, off San Cristobal

Lobos Island, which can be reached by panga, is named for the sea lion herds that have settled there.

It is a rare opportunity to witness these curious and lively animals up close while snorkeling in the quiet, clear water, and it is typical to be joined by green turtles and rays as well.

There is a route inland where you can expect to see frigates and blue-footed boobies’ nesting locations.

Transfer to San Cristobal Airport for your flight back home.

Itinerary 3 Nights, C

Day 1
AM: Arrival at San Cristobal Airport

Upon Arrival, an NPE representative will pick you up from the airport and transfer you to your vessel.

PM: David Rodriguez Breeding Center

The history and evolution of the giant tortoise are explained during a tour of the David Rodriguez Breeding Center, which also illustrates why preserving these fantastic animals’ future is so important.

Baby tortoises are being raised in semi-natural settings on the reserve’s trails. This is a beautiful example of the locals’ dedication to protecting the biodiversity that makes the Galapagos Islands unique.

Day 2
AM: Española / Suarez Point

Suarez Point is teeming with wildlife, and the circular walking track is the greatest way to explore it. During this enjoyable stroll, you will pass vast Nazca colonies, blue-footed, and mockingbird nests. Along with the red and green marine iguanas, Espaola Island is home to the stunning waved albatross, which may be seen majestically flinging itself out across the ocean from the cliffs.

A geological highlight is a group of blow holes that may discharge water 25 meters into the air and make for amazing pictures.

PM: Gardner Bay, Gardner, and Osborn Islet

While kayaking or paddle boarding is an excellent opportunity to watch the numerous waved albatross that utilize this beach as a nesting site, Gardner Bay’s immaculate white sand beach is lined with sea lions. It makes for the ideal place to unwind.

You may snorkel with baby sea lions and a variety of colorful tropical fish and corals in the Gardner and Osborn Islets, which are easily accessible by panga.

Day 3
Floreana – Cormorant Ponit / Champion Islet

Two distinct beaches can be found at Cormorant Point: one with pristine white sand (often referred to as «Flour Beach») made from crushed coral, and the other with green-tinted sand because of the high concentration of olivine crystals.

One of the greatest populations of Galapagos flamingos and other shorebirds like stilts, white-cheeked pintails, and large-billed flycatchers frequent the saltwater lagoon, making it a must-see.

A panga ride offers an excellent option for snorkeling to Champion Islet, an extinct shield volcano renowned for having a large variety of fish.

PM: Post Office Bay / The Baroness’ Lookout

An artificial location called Post Office Bay provides information about a fascinating mailing custom that was started by British whalers in the 18th century and is still used today. You may go kayaking or snorkeling on this beach and enter a lava tube and stroll through it.

Afterward, take a panga ride to the Baroness’ Lookout. This volcanic rock structure is named for an Australian baroness who visited the island in the 1930s and is thought to have vanished without a trace. A short route takes you to a fantastic vantage point with expansive views of the mangroves and shores nearby.

Day 4
AM: Baltra / Mosquera Islet

Between Baltra and North Seymour islands is the small, sandy Mosquera islet. The stunning surroundings can be explored on foot without restriction due to the lack of a set track. Here, you will come across many sea lions, shorebirds, and the spectacular Sally Lightfoot crabs that cling to the black rocks.

It’s a great place for snorkeling and spotting various marine life, including sharks, turtles, and rays, thanks to the abundance of coral reefs.

PM: Transfer to Baltra Airport for your flight back home.

Itinerary 4 Nights, D

Day 1
AM: Arrival at Baltra Island Airport

Upon Arrival, an NPE representative will pick you up from the airport and transfer you to your vessel.

PM: David Rodriguez Breeding Center

The history and evolution of the giant tortoise are explained during a tour of the David Rodriguez Breeding Center, which also illustrates why preserving these fantastic animals’ future is so important.

Baby tortoises are being raised in semi-natural settings on the reserve’s trails. This is a beautiful example of the locals’ dedication to protecting the biodiversity that makes the Galapagos Islands unique.

Day 2
AM: Genovesa – Prince Philip’s Steps / El Barranco

A steep staircase called El Barranco, also known as Prince Philip’s Steps, will take you past a Nazca and red-footed booby colony and up to a plateau of dried lava. Visitors are frequently treated to sights of storm petrels launching out over the ocean as they continue through the sparse Palo Santo forest and look out over the plain.

You have a decent chance of spotting the rare Galapagos fur seals snuggled on the rocks by taking a panga ride or kayaking or paddleboarding along the edge of the cliffs and snorkeling is a terrific activity if you want to go swimming with different kinds of sharks.

PM: Genovesa – Darwin Bay

A tiny stretch of sand and coral beach in Darwin Bay is ideal for snorkeling, kayaking, or paddle boarding in quiet, protected waters with hammerhead sharks, rays, and an abundance of colorful reef species. The Nazca and red-footed boobies, swallow-tailed gulls, and other land bird species can be found in the mangroves and tidal lagoon along the shore.

The walk ends at a viewpoint with an incredible view of the cliffs and the bay below.

Day 3
AM: Santiago – Espumilla Beach / Buccaneer Cove

Espumilla, which translates to «meringue,» refers to the surreal trail of foam that the waves leave as they lap this lovely white sand beach. The vividly colored Sally Lightfoot crabs that are abundant here draw pelicans, hawks, and other raptors like herons and eagles. This serene location on Santiago Island’s northern coast offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance for snorkeling and swimming among various aquatic life, including octopi, eels, and sharks.

Over the years, pirates, buccaneers, and whalers have frequented Buccaneer Cove. Today, it is an essential location for turtle nesting and is well-liked by sea lions, sting rays, and turtles. An amazing location for snorkeling and enjoying the views of its majestic rock formations.

PM: Santiago – Egas Port

James Bay, also known as Egas port, is the habitat of quick-footed Galapagos lava lizards. There are tide pools and caves filled with various marine animals. Egas Port is One of the top snorkeling locations in the Galapagos by far.

Day 4
AM: Santa Cruz – Bachas Beach

You will visit Kicker Rock in the morning. An iconic feature of the Galapagos, Kicker Rock, was created over time by the erosion of the volcano’s extinct cone. Additionally, when the ship navigates around the rock formation, blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds, and sea lions are frequently perched on the ledges above. This provides an excellent sight for taking beautiful images.

You will proceed to Witch Hill after seeing Kicker Rock. Witch Hill has a beautiful white sand beach reachable by panga and offers a great vantage point for visiting Kicker Rock in the island’s south. The hill is an eroded tuff cone, and the calm waters at its base make for an excellent snorkeling location.

Meanwhile, there are opportunities to see various coastal birds, finches, and mockingbirds on a walk along the beach or on one of the inland routes.

The largest hike on San Cristobal is the Giant Tortoise Reserve, which you will visit after lunch. The route is around 5 kilometers long and may be pretty warm.

This is a great location to see giant tortoises in their natural environment. Six thousand gigantic tortoises live at San Cristobal; hundreds of them can be spotted alongside other endemic species like lava lizards and mockingbirds on a good day.

The opportunity to see sea turtles and tintoreras (white-tipped reef sharks) makes snorkeling a fantastic activity and a great chance to see Sea turtles nest on the sand.

PM: Twin craters and the Highlands of Santa Cruz

The remains of a rusty boat assumed to have been abandoned by the Americans during World War I, may be seen on Bachas Beach, a gorgeous white sand beach. If you go snorkeling there, you might share the water with these magnificent animals because it is a favorite turtle breeding location.

Sally Lightfoot, hermit crabs, and stunning pink flamingos that visit the saline water lagoon behind are also abundant on the beach.

Day 5
AM: Lobos Island, off San Cristobal

Lobos Island, which can be reached by panga, is named for the sea lion herds that have settled there.

It is a rare opportunity to witness these curious and lively animals up close while snorkeling in the quiet, clear water, and it is typical to be joined by green turtles and rays as well.

There is a route inland where you can expect to see frigates and blue-footed boobies’ nesting locations.

Transfer to San Cristobal Airport for your flight back home.

Wildlife

The beautiful Galapagos Islands were created by volcanic activity that occurred between three and five million years ago near the equator in the Pacific Ocean. What was once a collection of inhospitable and remote lands devoid of all life is now home to a wide variety of exotic and strange creatures and plants, many of which are unique to this region. Given that the wildlife of the Galapagos Archipelago closely resembles that of South and Central America, as well as the fact that the islands were never connected to the mainland, it is likely that both plants and animals traveled great distances before finally arriving on the islands, either by wind or sea.This explains why some species of plants and animals are abundant in some regions while other species are largely missing.

The majority of the land animal species in the Galapagos are reptiles. They probably traveled to the Galapagos on rafts of vegetation that were transported by the ocean’s currents. They were best prepared to tolerate the arduous ocean journey since they could go for extended periods without water, but other species like large animals and amphibians couldn’t. Also, some creatures, such sea lions and penguins, were able to swim there. A few land birds were carried to the islands by wind currents, but most species were transported to the Galapagos Islands by air, where sea birds dominated the skies due to their ability to travel great distances.

The Galapagos flora and fauna underwent a series of evolutionary processes that allowed the fittest of species to survive by figuring out how to adapt to their environment and developing these traits over generations — a concept introduced by Darwin in his famous evolution theory — giving rise to the staggering diversity of distinct subspecies that grace the Galapagos islands. The lack of predators in the archipelago, however, is what gave island wildlife its most distinctive feature: a fearlessness toward people that gives tourists once-in-a-lifetime access to a unique world where people coexist peacefully and harmoniously with the wild.

2023 Departures

Saturday 25-March to Tuesday 28-March 2023 Itinerary C 4D/3N
Saturday 22-April to Tuesday 25-April 2023 Itinerary C 4D/3N
Saturday 22-April to Saturday 29-April 2023 Itinerary B 8D/7N
Tuesday 25-April to Saturday 29-April 2023 Itinerary D 5D/4N
Saturday 29-April to Saturday 06-May 2023 Itinerary A 8D/7N
Saturday 06-May to Tuesday 09-May 2023 Itinerary C 4D/3N
Saturday 20-May to Tuesday 23-May 2023 Itinerary C 4D/3N
Saturday 03-June to Tuesday 06-June 2023 Itinerary C 4D/3N
Saturday 03-June to Saturday 10-June 2023 Itinerary B 8D/7N
Tuesday 06-June to Saturday 10-June 2023 Itinerary D 5D/4N
Saturday 10-June to Saturday 17-June 2023 Itinerary A 8D/7N
Saturday 17-June to Tuesday 20-June 2023 Itinerary C 4D/3N
Saturday 17-June to Saturday 24-June 2023 Itinerary B 8D/7N
Tuesday 20-June to Saturday 24-June 2023 Itinerary D 5D/4N
Saturday 15-July to Tuesday 18-July 2023 Itinerary C 4D/3N
Tuesday 18-July to Saturday 22-July 2023 Itinerary D 5D/4N
Saturday 22-July to Saturday 29-July 2023 Itinerary A 8D/7N
Saturday 29-July to Tuesday 01-August 2023 Itinerary C 4D/3N
Saturday 29-July to Saturday 05-August 2023 Itinerary B 8D/7N
Saturday 12-August to Tuesday 15-August 2023 Itinerary C 4D/3N
Saturday 12-August to Saturday 19-August 2023 Itinerary B 8D/7N
Tuesday 15-August to Saturday 19-August 2023 Itinerary D 5D/4N
Saturday 26-August to Tuesday 29-August 2023 Itinerary C 4D/3N
Saturday 26-August to Saturday 02-September 2023 Itinerary B 8D/7N
Tuesday 29-August to Saturday 02-September 2023 Itinerary D 5D/4N
Saturday 02-September to Saturday 09-September 2023 Itinerary A 8D/7N
Saturday 21-October to Tuesday 24-October 2023 Itinerary C 4D/3N
Saturday 28-October to Saturday 04-November 2023 Itinerary A 8D/7N
Saturday 04-November to Tuesday 07-November 2023 Itinerary C 4D/3N
Saturday 04-November to Saturday 11-November 2023 Itinerary B 8D/7N
Tuesday 07-November to Saturday 11-November 2023 Itinerary D 5D/4N
Saturday 11-November to Saturday 18-November 2023 Itinerary A 8D/7N
Saturday 18-November to Saturday 25-November 2023 Itinerary B 8D/7N
Saturday 25-November to Saturday 02-December 2023 Itinerary A 8D/7N
Saturday 02-December to Tuesday 05-December 2023 Itinerary C 4D/3N
Tuesday 05-December to Saturday 09-December 2023 Itinerary D 5D/4N
Saturday 09-December to Saturday 16-December 2023 Itinerary A 8D/7N
Saturday 16-December to Tuesday 19-December 2023 Itinerary C 4D/3N
Saturday 16-December to Saturday 23-December 2023 Itinerary B 8D/7N
Tuesday 19-December to Saturday 23-December 2023 Itinerary D 5D/4N

Extensions

 

Machu Picchu Pre-Extension

Day 1: Arrive in Lima

Arrive in the modern city of Lima. Upon your arrival, an NPE team representative will meet & greet you and transfer you to the convenient Wyndham Costa del Sol, which is connected to the airport. There we will recharge our energies for our fantastic experience ahead. Overnight at Wyndham Costa del Sol (No Meals).

Day 2: Lima / Cusco / Sacred Valley

Fly this morning for Cusco. Upon your arrival at the imperial city, drive through the Sacred Valley to Chinchero, a typical Andean village, where we have lunch and learn about the fantastic high-quality handicrafts done in this picturesque village by the local artisans. Afterward, we will continue our ride through the Sacred Valley of the Incas towards the superb  Tambo del Inka, where we will spend two nights. We will enjoy a welcome dinner at the hotel restaurant and have a briefing about our fantastic visit to Machu Picchu on the next day. Overnight at Tambo del Inka (B, L, D).

Day 3: Machu Picchu

Today, we will head towards Ollantaytambo’s train station, where we will board our first-class train to Machu Picchu. The sanctuary, which is located at a height of fewer than 8,000 feet in the «eyebrow of the jungle,» is encircled by a tropical mountain forest full of a variety of birds and orchids. Our guide will lead us through this fantastic world wonder while explaining to us the importance of this place considered sacred for the Incas. After our visit, we will return to Machu Picchu pueblo to catch our train back to Ollantaytambo and drive back to Tambo del Inka. On our return to Ollantaytambo, we will enjoy a superb dinner onboard the train. Overnight at Tambo del Inka (B, L, D).

Day 4: Sacred Valley / Cusco

This morning, after breakfast, head for Cusco with a full day to explore. See the Plaza de Armas, the revered Inca Temple of the Sun, the wonderfully ornate 17th-century cathedral, and other highlights of this thriving cultural hub and the center of the Inca world, where colonial structures sit upon Inca foundations. After our visit, we will check in at the Palacio del Inka hotel, located in the historic center. Today, dinner is on your own to explore this fantastic city on your own. Your guide will provide you with some recommendations for restaurants and where to go during the night. Overnight at Palacio del Inka (B, L).

Day 5: Cusco / Lima / Guayaquil

Today, we will drive to the airport for our scheduled flight to Lima, and continue to Guayaquil, where we will spend the night before boarding our cruise to the outstanding Galapagos. Overnight at Hotel del Parque (B, L, D).

Recommended Expeditions

Galapagos Elite Catamaran (8 Cabins)

Galapagos Ocean Spray Catamaran (8 Cabins)

DURATION

MULTIPLE
DAYS

WHEN

ALL YEAR

DESTINATION

GALAPAGOS
ECUADOR

TYPE

CHARTER &
PER CABIN

Galapagos Ocean Spray

The  Ocean Spray, one of the best options for experiencing the Galapagos Islands in elegance, will feature a modern, remodeled interior.

The 16-person Ocean Spray was designed for stability and comfort, providing enough room for each passenger onboard and top-notch amenities.

It offers a spacious, friendly briefing area where knowledgeable, top-rated Naturalist Guides deliver enlightening lectures and discussions.

All suites on The Ocean Spray will boast expansive ocean views, convertible beds (a king-size bed or two twin-size beds), and opulent private balconies from which our passengers may recline and take in the islands while cruising. Our staterooms will come equipped with first-rate biodegradable amenities, plush bedding, and daylight.

Visitors can take advantage of the sky deck, which offers a whirlpool and cozy daybeds. The Ocean Spray is an excellent place from which to view wildlife.

All tours and excursions are led by renowned naturalist guides, providing unique opportunities to observe the peculiar Galapagos fauna while on the go.

Technical Specifications 

  • Category: Luxury
  • Operating as of November 2011
  • Length & Beam: 113 ft x 43 ft
  • Draft to Baseline: 4 ft
  • Max number of guests: 16
  • Crew: 10 + 1 Service Officer + 1 Naturalist
  • Propulsion: MTU-DDC Series 60
  • Suite Sizes (Including balconies): 334 ft2
  • Suites Locations: 4 on the Main Deck + 4 on the Upper Deck + 2 Single on the Upper Deck
  • Single Cabin Size: 161 ft2
  • Electricity 110 V and 220 V
  • Charter Includes: Hotel Overnights and Airport Transfers in Quito or Guayaquil cities.
  • Extensions to the Amazon and Machu Picchu are available

The ship’s size allowed our whole party to disembark at all sites together, which made a big difference!

Charles C. – CO

QUESTIONS?


If you have any questions, please let us know. We are here to help you!

Ship Description

On board the Ocean Spray, the eight Panoramic Suites are airy and comfortable. Four are on the main deck, and the rest are on the top deck. 

Each suite has a balcony, personalized marine air conditioning control, and panoramic views of the islands, thanks to their floor-to-ceiling/wall-to-wall windows.

Each suite can be set with a matrimonial king-size bed or two separate twin beds, and they also include a desk, a small seating area, a closet, a sofa bed, and a private bathroom with hot running water.

Ocean Spray’s main deck, at its front, has a briefing area for lectures and briefings. It offers plenty of information about traveling through the Galapagos Islands through movies, books, and personal advice.

While cruising, travelers can enjoy delectable cuisine while taking in panoramic views of the islands from the panoramic interior passenger lounge and dining room.

Passengers may board and exit the catamaran from two platforms, making access to the vessel incredibly simple.

Our upper deck is accessible to passengers through inside stairs. There are four suites, a sun deck, and a private gathering place where guests can unwind and watch wildlife. A single cabin with a balcony is also available on the Ocean Spray.

the Ocean Spray’s top levels are also accessible to passengers via our outdoor stairs.

The Ocean Spray has an outdoor dining space, bar, outdoor passenger lounge, jacuzzi, sun chair, and seating area on the Sky Deck.

While admiring the islands, excellent drinks are served on an open-shaded deck.

Deck Plans

Food & Drinks

Breakfast and lunch are provided buffet-style on board the Ocean Spray, and dinner will be based on a delectable menu and buffet, depending on the food specialist’s choices.

The passengers’ choice will be prepared for supper by our top-notch cruise service officer.

Any kind of special dietary needs must be communicated in advance to New Paths Expeditions.

Based on our guests’ nutritional needs, tastes, and traditions, we are adaptable and willing to produce unique and always delectable meals for them.

Itineraries & Activities

Itinerary 7 Nights, A

Day 1
AM: Arrival at Baltra Island Airport

Upon Arrival, an NPE representative will pick you up from the airport and transfer you to your vessel.

PM: Chinese Hat

Following a brief introduction to health, safety, and emergency procedures, you will go to Chinese Hat island. This visiting destination, named after its unusual shape, will provide you with your first chance for an intimate experience with Galapagos species. Additionally, you’ll be able to observe brittle, well-preserved volcanic rock, unlike anything you’ve ever seen in other volcanic areas. Many Galapagos bird species, notably the entertaining Galapagos penguins and the elusive Galapagos Hawks, call this islet home.

Day 2
AM: Isabela Island / Vicente Roca

We will head towards the Vicente Roca viewpoint after breakfast. Amazing granite formations at Vicente Roca Point provide as a haven for several bird species. The calm, turquoise waters of the nutrient-rich Cromwell Current, where the tourist site is located on Isabela’s western coast, provide the setting for remarkable feeding frenzys of both bird species and underwater creatures.

PM: Fernandina Island / Espinosa Point

We’ll go to Fernandina Island in the afternoon. In addition to being the youngest island in the archipelago, Fernandina Island is also one of the most pure because no alien species have ever invaded there. In addition to being more volcanically active than its brothers, it is the westernmost island in the Galapagos. The single visitor center on Fernandina is Espinosa Point, which offers a wealth of sights, including the rare flightless cormorant, marine iguanas, and Galapagos Hawks. While hiking, savor the expansive vistas of the surreal scenery.

Day 3
AM: Isabela Island / Tagus Cove

You will visit Tagus Cove in the morning after breakfast. Due to its human history, Tagus Cove is among the most fascinating tourist destinations in the Galapagos. Visitors enjoy reading the intriguing names and locations inscribed on the cove’s walls, which were a favorite resting area for pirates, sailors, and whalers for hundreds of years. Aside from providing you with sweeping views of the cove and its surrounds, this trip also passes through a mangrove forest that is home to the last 35 pairs of Mangrove finches. The beach of the cove offers snorkeling opportunities; if you’re lucky, you might observe a marine iguana diving for food.

PM: Isabela Island / Urbina Bay

You will travel to Urbina Bay after lunch. Urbina Bay, a volcanic uplift that has been protruding from the ocean floor for millions of years, hosts land and marine iguanas, raucous sea lions, and the curious flightless cormorant. There are a few hiking trails near Urbina Bay that will allow you to get a better glimpse of the various shorebird species that live nearby the water. The bay is a perfect area to unwind on the beach or go snorkeling in its waters.

Day 4
AM: Isabela Island / Elizabeth Bay

After breakfast, you will visit Elizabeth’s Bay. Visitors can view a huge diversity and abundance of marine life from the Zodiacs in the bay’s shockingly blue waters, including Galapagos sharks and giant sea turtles.

PM: Isabela Island / Moreno Point

After lunch, you will visit Moreno Point. Moreno Point is a fascinating destination for birdwatchers due to the scores of different bird species that call the unearthly rocky shoreline of the point home. More unusual bird species can be seen in some saltwater lagoons that are accessible by a short stroll from the shore. Moreno Point is a very beautiful and gorgeous visitor location due to the jet-black lava flows with the deep blue waters, the bright green vegetation around the lagoons, and the looming Sierra Negra and Cerro Azul volcanoes in the distance.

Day 5
AM: Santa Cruz Island / Charles Darwin Research Station

Given its long history of conservation in the archipelago and its enormous collection of Galapagos plant specimens and other exciting items, like a whole whale skeleton, the Charles Darwin Research Station is a fascinating destination for anybody setting foot on the islands. Galapagos Giant Tortoise breeding is also actively conducted here, and it is still used as a biological research facility today, overseeing numerous projects throughout the archipelago.

PM: Santa Cruz Island / Highlands

On Santa Cruz Island, the highlands can rise up to 1,500 meters above sea level, creating completely distinct climate zones. Volcanoes, wildlife, lush vegetation, and rolling hills are all present in the region. Visitors can view finches, mockingbirds, and a variety of other bird species here, where they can see Galapagos Giant Tortoises in their natural habitat. Guests can occasionally observe whales breaching or rays jumping over the waves from the highlands’ breathtaking panoramic views of the nearby oceans.

Day 6
AM: South Plaza

One of the lesser tourist attractions in the archipelago, South Plaza Island is home to various plant and animal species. The land iguana’s primary source of food, the prickly pear cactus tree, and other Sesuvium species are particularly prevalent there. The iguanas were established on land, eradicating the local mice population. South Plaza Island is a favorite among photographers due to its surrounding landscape of jet-black lava set against turquoise waters.

PM: Santa Fe Island

There is only one small island on the earth where the endangered pink land iguanas can be found. The famed Santa Fe Iguana lives on Santa Fe Island, originally formed by volcanic uplift. Palo Santo and Opuntia trees now grow there in woodland. On Santa Fe Island, there are two trails: one descends to a little beach, while the other leads to a vantage point with views of the island and the surrounding water. Giant Tortoises, who were native to this island and had their population at one time, were completely exterminated by centuries of overhunting.

Day 7
AM: Española Island / Suarez Point

Española Island is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the archipelago since it is home to various amazing species and geological characteristics. In the Galapagos, Suarez Point is the only place where Waved Albatrosses breed, and if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of a young albatross making its first flight out to sea, where it will stay for up to five years! Visitors to Espaola Island frequently spot sea lions, marine iguanas, and sharks swimming in the area’s waters because they are nutrient-rich. In addition to the Waved Albatross, many other bird species call Espaola home, including Galapagos Doves, red-billed tropic birds, swallow-tailed gulls, Nazca, blue-footed boobies, and more

PM: Gardner Bay / Osborn Islet

Sea lions that live in Gardner Bay’s vicinity frolic loudly in the area’s crystal-clear turquoise waters. The endemic Espaola mockingbird, renowned for being exceptionally friendly with visitors, is also present here, along with various finch species. Visitors must not feed or handle any wildlife, even the more amiable species.

Day 8
AM: San Cristobal Interpretation Center / Fly back home

Since it opened to the public more than 20 years ago, the Interpretation Center has provided visitors with information on the development of the Giant Tortoise breeding program as well as the history of the Galapagos archipelago. The province and the Ecuadorian navy seat are based on San Cristobal, the easternmost of the group of islands, which Charles Darwin visited for the first time. In the vicinity of the center, giant tortoises raised in captivity roam a semi-natural habitat.

Afterward, get transferred to the airport to catch your flight back home.

Itinerary 7 Nights, B

Day 1
AM: Arrival at Baltra Island Airport

Upon Arrival, an NPE representative will pick you up from the airport and transfer you to your vessel.

PM: San Cristobal – Lobos Island/Kicker Rock

You will be brought to Lobos Island in the afternoon, where you can see a small population of blue-footed boobies, frigates, marine iguanas, and excellent frigate bird breeding. The experience includes swimming with sea lions while snorkeling in this serene bay.

Afterward, you will visit Kicker Rock, a unique eroded geological phenomenon. While the boats cruise around the rock, you can take incredible shots of where seabirds build their nests.

Day 2
AM: San Cristobal – Pitt Point

You’ll have the impression that you’ve landed on an alien world when you get to Pitt Point. You can observe the various historical developments that resulted from the island’s formation by volcanic activity. Amazing views of the nearby waterways can be seen after a climb to the summit. Once you reach the island’s top, keep an eye out for red-footed boobie nests in the trees and watch out for blue-footed boobie nests on the ground.

PM: San Cristobal – Witch Hill

In the afternoon, you will visit Witch Hill, a cone-shaped tuff hill located southwest of San Cristobal. This lovely place includes a white sand beach and stunningly clean waters. A fantastic chance to go snorkeling.

Day 3
AM: Floreana – Post Office Bay

On this day, you will visit the Postal Office on Floreana Island, which has remained the same since pirate times. Request a free postcard from the cruise manager to write a note, send it home, and leave it in the previously-used pirate and sailor-used barrel. 

PM: Floreana – Cormorant Point / Devil’s Crown

Two stunning beaches can be found near Cormorant Point, one of which is pristine white and appropriately called «flour beach,» and the other is stained a dazzling green by a high concentration of olivine crystals. One of the most significant concentrations of flamingos in the Galapagos, as well as white-cheeked pintails and common stilts, frequent this saltwater lagoon. Devil’s Crown is a volcanic crater, beautifully cratered and primarily buried in water. It has a wide variety of marine life, making it an attractive location for diving and snorkeling.

Day 4
AM: Santa Cruz – Black Turtle Cove

After breakfast, enjoy your excursion to Black Turtle Cove, which is on Santa Cruz’s north shore. It is a tangible example of how mangroves transform the maritime ecosystem to provide a diverse and special habitat. The lagoon extends about a mile inland and is covered in three different mangroves.

You will have the opportunity to spot eagles and mustard rays that swim in a diamond configuration as you float over calm seas in the zodiac. While Pacific green sea turtles surface for air and mate, white-tipped reef sharks swim beneath the boat.

Pelicans, herons, and egrets feed on fish in the cove. You will feel at ease in this serene setting.

PM: Bartholomew – Pinnacle Rock

Pinnacle Rock, a ragged spear-like rock that has become a defining characteristic of the Galapagos, can be seen in its best light at this location. You must climb a set of stairs to reach the summit of the now-extinct volcano, where you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view after passing through various colored lava rocks. The sandy bay of the island is a fantastic place for snorkeling as well, with the potential to see rays, reef sharks, and penguins.

Day 5
AM: Genovesa – Darwin Bay

Visit the outstanding Darwin Bay in the morning. Along the beach, one can find Great Frigate colonies. Here, you will experience an amazing show of  Males showing females their crimson balloon pouch, hoping to find a mate.

In contrast to the other two booby species, which build their nests on the ground, red-footed boobies do it in trees.

PM: Genovesa – El Barranco

In the afternoon, you will visit El Barranco, also known as Prince Philip’s Steps. This will take you to a broad plateau where you can see several masked boobies, frigate birds, storm petrels, and duck colonies in their natural habitats.

During this leisurely stroll, you will pass through a small Scalesia woodland, home to the unique and glamorous short-eared owl. Afterward, you will return to the boat to rest and recharge for your next day of adventure.

Day 6
AM: Santiago – Espumilla Beach / Buccaneer Cove

Espumilla, which translates to «meringue,» refers to the surreal trail of foam that the waves leave as they lap this lovely white sand beach. The vividly colored Sally Lightfoot crabs that are abundant here draw pelicans, hawks, and other raptors like herons and eagles. This serene location on Santiago Island’s northern coast offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance for snorkeling and swimming among various aquatic life, including octopi, eels, and sharks.

Over the years, pirates, buccaneers, and whalers have frequented Buccaneer Cove. Today, it is an essential location for turtle nesting and is well-liked by sea lions, sting rays, and turtles. An amazing location for snorkeling and enjoying the views of its majestic rock formations.

PM: Santiago – Egas Port

James Bay, also known as Egas port, is the habitat of quick-footed Galapagos lava lizards. There are tide pools and caves filled with various marine animals. Egas Port is One of the top snorkeling locations in the Galapagos by far.

Day 7
AM: North Seymour Island

A relatively flat surface resulted from the elevation of lava beneath the water that created this island. You might witness land iguanas, sea lions, and turtles along the coast. Inland, you can find colonies of blue-footed boobies, which you might be lucky enough to see doing their charming courtship dance. The majestic frigate bird, whose males have recognizable red gular pouches that inflate during the mating season, makes the island its most notable breeding location.

PM: Santa Cruz – Highlands

The highlands are situated in Santa Cruz’s northern region and have an elevation range of up to 1500 meters. This region has many hills, ferns, volcanoes, and animals. A striking contrast to the previously witnessed rocky terrain and beaches of neighboring islands that were hardened by molten lava. Mockingbirds, finches, giant tortoises, and many other species can be found there.

Day 8
AM: Mosquera Islet

This little, sandy islet, which is halfway between North Seymour and Baltra, is well-known for its unspoiled beauty. A variety of shorebirds, including lava gulls and herons, sea lions relaxing on the beach, and Sally Lightfoot crabs clinging to the rocks, will excite bird lovers. There is no set track on the island, so you can explore a little or dive in for a snorkel to see some sharks, turtles, and rays.

PM: Departure from Baltra Island Airport

Itinerary 5 Nights, A

Day 1
AM: Baltra Airport to the M/C Ocean Spray.

Transfer to the vessel after landing at the Baltra airport.

PM: Chinese Hat.

This location provides a unique opportunity to see Galapagos fauna up close and personal, as well as well-preserved fragments of soft volcanic rock that are incomparably preserved. The island was given its name because it resembles an Asian-style hat. Along the coastlines, you can watch Galapagos Penguins and American Oystercatchers swimming.

Day 2
AM: Isabela – Vicente Roca Point

Vicente Roca Point is a fantastic location to watch various birds and has impressive geological formations. The Cromwell Current, which offers cold water and numerous nutrients for both land and aquatic animals, is present since this visitor site is situated in the western part of the island, allowing visitors to witness incredible feeding frenzies.

PM: Fernandina – Espinosa Point

Fernandina has never experienced an invasion by an alien species because it is one of the archipelago’s most unspoiled islands. In addition, it is the farthest west and most active island. On the entire island, Espinosa Point is the lone tourist destination. You may go on a hike or go snorkeling at one of the world’s most natural and pristine locations while seeing marine iguanas and Galapagos hawks.

Day 3
AM: Isabela – Tagus Cove:

You will love discovering what pirates and sailors in the 1800s left behind if you like historical relics. One of their favorite rest stops when sailing the ocean was this location. The trip here offers stunning views of the cove and the mangrove forest, which is home to the remaining 35 pairs of Mangrove finches.

PM: Isabela – Urbina Bay

Urbina Bay was once on the ocean floor millions of years ago. It rose as a result of volcanic uplifts, and now sea lions, land iguanas, and flightless cormorants live there. The beach is a terrific area to spend some spare time, or the tour guide can recommend a trek.

Day 4
AM: Isabela – Elizabeth Bay

Only pangas can access this visitation spot because the park administration does not have a landing permit to safeguard the island. In the panga, you can enjoy the large variety of marine life visible in crystal-clear waters. For snorkeling, it is excellent.

PM: Isabela – Moreno Point

Numerous birds can be found on Moreno Point’s stunning rocky shoreline. It is a true birder’s paradise. White-tipped sharks can be spotted in the coastal lagoons, and you can’t miss the panoramic vistas of the Sierra Negra and Cerro Azul volcanoes.

Day 5
AM: Santa Cruz – Charles Darwin Research Station

One of the most popular tourist destinations on the Galapagos Islands is the Charles Darwin Research Station. It serves as a biological research station and active breeding center run by the Charles Darwin Foundation, and it houses a sizable collection of meticulously kept Galapagos plant specimens. Their main conservation initiatives center on eradicating noxious and alien species killing the islands’ endemic wildlife.

PM: Santa Cruz – Highlands

The highlands are situated in Santa Cruz’s northern region and have an elevation range of up to 1500 meters. This region has many hills, ferns, volcanoes, and animals. A striking contrast to the previously witnessed rocky terrain and beaches of neighboring islands that were hardened by molten lava. Mockingbirds, finches, giant tortoises, and many other species can be found there.

Day 6
AM: South Plaza Island

Despite being one of the smaller islands with a visiting site, South Plaza is home to various plants and animals. The land iguana relies heavily on food sources provided by Sesuvium plants like the prickly pear cactus tree in this region. Mice were finally eliminated from the island just a few years ago, which helped the land iguana population recover its healthy growth. Fantastic photo opportunities are created by the contrast between the black lava and the stunning colors of the blue seas.

Transfer to the airport in Baltra for your journey back to mainland Ecuador after this final stop.

Itinerary 5 Nights, B

Day 1
AM: Arrival at Baltra Island Airport

Upon Arrival, an NPE representative will pick you up from the airport and transfer you to your vessel.

PM: Santa Fe Island

There is only one small island on the earth where the endangered pink land iguanas can be found. The famed Santa Fe Iguana lives on Santa Fe Island, originally formed by volcanic uplift. Palo Santo and Opuntia trees now grow there in woodland. On Santa Fe Island, there are two trails: one descends to a little beach, while the other leads to a vantage point with views of the island and the surrounding water. Giant Tortoises, who were native to this island and had their population at one time, were completely exterminated by centuries of overhunting.

Day 2
AM: Española – Suarez Point

There is a remarkable variety of fauna in Suarez Point. You can spot Galapagos doves, mockingbirds, and finches grazing close as you go by the nesting sites of Nazca and blue-footed boobies. Additionally, a geyser that may shoot water up to 25 meters into the air will be visible to you. You can enjoy seeing waved albatrosses take off across the water when you finally reach the top of the jaw-dropping cliffs.

PM: Española – Gardner Bay / Osborn Islet

One of the longest white sand beaches in the Galapagos, Gardner Bay is home to sea lion populations and curious mockingbirds. The waved albatross uses it as one of the most significant nesting grounds in the world. You may snorkel with baby sea lions and a wider variety of tropical fish and corals in the Osborn and Gardner Islets, which are only accessible by small boats.

Day 3
AM: San Cristobal – Interpretation Center and Galapaguera

Since being opened to the public in 1998, the Interpretation Center has provided significant information about Galapagos’ past. Charles Darwin made his first landing on San Cristobal Island. It presently serves as the Galapagos Islands’ capital and is home to numerous government offices and a portion of the Ecuadorian Navy. The Galapaguera Center has built a semi-natural setting where giant tortoises can roam freely while tourists enjoy their beauty.

PM: San Cristobal – Lobos Island/Kicker Rock

You will be brought to Lobos Island in the afternoon, where you can see a small population of blue-footed boobies, frigates, marine iguanas, and excellent frigate bird breeding. The experience includes swimming with sea lions while snorkeling in this serene bay.

Afterward, you will visit Kicker Rock, a unique eroded geological phenomenon. While the boats cruise around the rock, you can take incredible shots of where seabirds build their nests.

Day 4
AM: San Cristobal – Pitt Point

You’ll have the impression that you’ve landed on an alien world when you get to Pitt Point. You can observe the various historical developments that resulted from the island’s formation by volcanic activity. Amazing views of the nearby waterways can be seen after a climb to the summit. Once you reach the island’s top, keep an eye out for red-footed boobie nests in the trees and watch out for blue-footed boobie nests on the ground.

PM: San Cristobal – Witch Hill

In the afternoon, you will visit Witch Hill, a cone-shaped tuff hill located southwest of San Cristobal. This lovely place includes a white sand beach and stunningly clean waters. A fantastic chance to go snorkeling.

Day 5
AM: Floreana – Post Office Bay

On this day, you will visit the Postal Office on Floreana Island, which has remained the same since pirate times. Request a free postcard from the cruise manager to write a note, send it home, and leave it in the previously-used pirate and sailor-used barrel.

PM: Floreana – Cormorant Point / Devil’s Crown

Two stunning beaches can be found near Cormorant Point, one of which is pristine white and appropriately called «flour beach,» and the other is stained a dazzling green by a high concentration of olivine crystals. One of the most significant concentrations of flamingos in the Galapagos, as well as white-cheeked pintails and common stilts, frequent this saltwater lagoon. Devil’s Crown is a volcanic crater, beautifully cratered and primarily buried in water. It has a wide variety of marine life, making it an attractive location for diving and snorkeling.

Day 6
AM: Santa Cruz – Black Turtle Cove

After breakfast, enjoy your excursion to Black Turtle Cove, which is on Santa Cruz’s north shore. It is a tangible example of how mangroves transform the maritime ecosystem to provide a diverse and special habitat. The lagoon extends about a mile inland and is covered in three different mangroves.

You will have the opportunity to spot eagles and mustard rays that swim in a diamond configuration as you float over calm seas in the zodiac. While Pacific green sea turtles surface for air and mate, white-tipped reef sharks swim beneath the boat.

Pelicans, herons, and egrets feed on fish in the cove. You will feel at ease in this serene setting.

 

Transfer to the airport in Baltra for your journey back to mainland Ecuador after this final stop.

Itinerary 4 Nights

Day 1
AM: Baltra Island Airport.

Arrive at Baltra airport and transfer to the vessel.

PM: Bartolomé/Bartholomew Island.

Visit Pinnacle Rock after lunch. The magma created the volcanic cone known as Pinnacle Rock which an underwater volcano ejected. The sea cooled the hot lava, and as it exploded upon contact, the fragments came together to form this enormous basalt rock. The enormous rock also has a beach where, during the mating season, a small colony of green sea turtles will lay their eggs. Here, Galapagos penguins congregate, and swimming can provide stunning views of vibrant schools of fish and observant sea lions. Visit Pinnacle Rock after lunch. The magma created the volcanic cone known as Pinnacle Rock which an underwater volcano ejected. The sea cooled the hot lava, and as it exploded upon contact, the fragments came together to form this enormous basalt rock. The enormous rock also has a beach where, during the mating season, a small colony of green sea turtles will lay their eggs. Here, Galapagos penguins congregate, and swimming can provide stunning views of vibrant schools of fish and observant sea lions.

Day 2
AM: Genovesa / Darwin Bay

Visit Darwin Bay in the morning. Darwin Bay was formerly a shield volcano, and today you can see where one of its caldera’s sides collapsed due to centuries’ worth of erosion. The variety of birds that can be seen there is well-known. The trees and bushes of Genovesa Island are considered home to more than 20,000 red-footed boobies.

PM: El Barranco.

El Barranco, also known as Prince Phillip’s Steps, will be our second stop during this day. After a short hike, the trail will take you to a cliff with a fantastic vista of the island. Additionally, it has a Palo Santo forest where red-footed boobies and other shorebirds breed.

Day 3
AM: Santiago – Espumilla Beach / Buccaneer Cove

Visit Espumilla beach in the morning. This gorgeous white sand beach is on Santiago island’s northern coast, and its name comes from the trails of foamy water left by the waves that resemble meringue. As a result of the abundance of Sally Lightfoot crabs in this area, hawks, herons, and pelicans are frequently spotted.

In this picturesque setting, you can kayak, paddle board, or snorkel among various fish species, including octopuses, eels, and sharks. Buccaneer Cove has a fascinating history as a place where sailors, buccaneers, and whalers frequently anchored their ships in search of food and water. It has recently grown in importance as a turtle nesting location and is also well-liked by sea lions.

An interesting perspective of the unique rock formations that serve as good ledges for boobies, pelicans, and gulls may be seen from a panga ride along the eroding beach.

PM: Santiago – Egas Port

Visit Egas Port after lunch. This beautiful black sand beach, which was previously the home of a salt mine, is now a great place for snorkeling and viewing shorebirds, Sally Lightfoot crabs, and marine iguanas.

Wide paths inland take you through tidal pools and rugged volcanic outcrops known as grottoes, where you might see fur seals relaxing in the shade.

Day 4
AM: North Seymour Island

Visit Seymour Island after breakfast. Lord Hugh Seymour, an English lord, was honored with the island’s name. A massive colony of about 2,500 land iguanas and sizable populations of sea lions, blue-footed boobies, common noddies, and frigatebirds live on the island, which was formed by raised subsurface lava. The largest population of Magnificent Frigatebirds and land and marine iguanas can be seen along the shore.

PM: Santa Cruz – Highlands

Head to Santa Cruz after lunch. Due to the abundance of flora and fauna, hills, ferns, volcanoes, and lava tubes, the Highlands of Santa Cruz are a highly fascinating location.

The lava tubes are a weird and unusual place to explore. The many agricultural zones in the Galapagos can be seen here in one location. Due to its location, it is one of the best places to spot birds.

Day 5
AM: Mosquera Islet

After breakfast, explore the islet of Mosquera, located between the islands of North Seymour and Baltra. It has a long white sand beach and a reef made of rocks and coral that formed due to an uprising. It has an estimated length of 600 meters and the narrowest width of roughly 160 meters. Except for the southwest side where the landing takes place, most of the perimeter has a base of lava rocks as proof of the lava uprising. One of the greatest sea lion populations is found on this island. A variety of shorebird species can also be seen. There have been sporadic reports of orcas (Orcinus orca) at this location feeding on sea lions.

Afterward, get transferred to the airport to catch your flight back home.

Itinerary 3 Nights

Day 1
AM: San Cristobal Airport.

Transfer to the yacht after landing at the San Cristobal airport.

PM: San Cristobal – Lobos Island/Kicker Rock

You will be brought to Lobos Island in the afternoon, where you can see a small population of blue-footed boobies, frigates, marine iguanas, and excellent frigate bird breeding. The experience includes swimming with sea lions while snorkeling in this serene bay.

Afterward, you will visit Kicker Rock, a unique eroded geological phenomenon. While the boats cruise around the rock, you can take incredible shots of where seabirds build their nests.

Day 2
AM: San Cristobal – Pitt Point

You’ll have the impression that you’ve landed on an alien world when you get to Pitt Point. You can observe the various historical developments that resulted from the island’s formation by volcanic activity. Amazing views of the nearby waterways can be seen after a climb to the summit. Once you reach the island’s top, keep an eye out for red-footed boobie nests in the trees and watch out for blue-footed boobie nests on the ground.

PM: San Cristobal – Witch Hill

In the afternoon, you will visit Witch Hill, a cone-shaped tuff hill located southwest of San Cristobal. This lovely place includes a white sand beach and stunningly clean waters. A fantastic chance to go snorkeling.

Day 3
AM: Floreana – Post Office Bay

On this day, you will visit the Postal Office on Floreana Island, which has remained the same since pirate times. Request a free postcard from the cruise manager to write a note, send it home, and leave it in the previously-used pirate and sailor-used barrel.

PM: Floreana – Cormorant Point / Devil’s Crown

Two stunning beaches can be found near Cormorant Point, one of which is pristine white and appropriately called «flour beach,» and the other is stained a dazzling green by a high concentration of olivine crystals. One of the most significant concentrations of flamingos in the Galapagos, as well as white-cheeked pintails and common stilts, frequent this saltwater lagoon. Devil’s Crown is a volcanic crater, beautifully cratered and primarily buried in water. It has a wide variety of marine life, making it an attractive location for diving and snorkeling.

Day 4
AM: Santa Cruz – Black Turtle Cove

After breakfast, enjoy your excursion to Black Turtle Cove, which is on Santa Cruz’s north shore. It is a tangible example of how mangroves transform the maritime ecosystem to provide a diverse and special habitat. The lagoon extends about a mile inland and is covered in three different mangroves.

You will have the opportunity to spot eagles and mustard rays that swim in a diamond configuration as you float over calm seas in the zodiac. While Pacific green sea turtles surface for air and mate, white-tipped reef sharks swim beneath the boat.

Pelicans, herons, and egrets feed on fish in the cove. You will feel at ease in this serene setting.

 

Transfer to the airport in Baltra for your journey back to mainland Ecuador after this final stop.

2023 Departures

Tuesday, 18-April to Saturday, 22-April 2023 - Itinerary B 5D/4N
Tuesday, 02-May to Saturday, 06-May 2023 - Itinerary B 5D/4N
Saturday, 13-May to Tuesday, 16-May 2023 Itinerary B 5D/4N
Saturday, 20-May to Thursday, 25-May 2023 - Itinerary 6D/5N
Thursday, 25-May to Tuesday, 30-May 2023 - Itinerary B 6D/5N
Saturday, 03-June to Saturday, 10-June 2023 - Itinerary A 8D/7N
Saturday, 10-June to Tuesday, 13-June 2023 - Itinerary B 4D/3N
Tuesday, 13-June to Saturday, 17-June 2023 - Itinerary B 5D/4N
Saturday, 17-June to Thursday, 22-June 2023 - Itinerary A 6D/5N
Thursday, 22 -June to Tuesday, 27-June 2023 - Itinerary B 6D/5N
Saturday, 08-July to Tuesday, 11-July 2023 - Itinerary B 4D/3N
Saturday, 15-July to Thursday, 20-July 2023 - Itinerary A 6D/5N
Thursday, 20-July to Tuesday, 25-July 2023 - Itinerary B 6D/5N
Saturday, 29-July to Saturday, 05-August 2023 - Itinerary A 8D/7N
Saturday, 05-August to Tuesday, 08-August 2023 - Itinerary B 4D/3N
Tuesday, 08-August to Saturday, 12-August 2023 - Itinerary B 5D/4N
Saturday, 12-August to Thursday, 17-August 2023 - Itinerary A 6D/5N
Thursday, 17-August to Tuesday, 22-August 2023 - Itinerary B 6D/5N
Tuesday, 17- August to Tuesday, 22-August 2023 - Itinerary B 6D/5N
Tuesday, 22-August to Saturday, 26-August 2023 - Itinerary 2023
Saturday, 26-August to Saturday, 02-September 2023 - Itinerary A 8D/7N
Saturday, 30-September to Tuesday, 03-October 2023 - Itinerary B 4D/3N
Thursday, 12-October to Tuesday, 17-October 2023 - Itinerary B 6D/5N
Tuesday 17-October to Saturday, 21-October 2023 - Itinerary B 5D/4N
Saturday, 21-October to Saturday, 28-October 2023 - Itinerary A 8D/7N
Saturday, 28-October to Tuesday, 31-October 2023 -Itinerary B 4D/3N
Saturday, 28-October to Saturday, 04-November 2023 - Itinerary B 8D/7N
Tuesday, 31-October to Saturday, 04-November 2023 - Itinerary B 5D/4N
Saturday, 04-November to Thursday, 09-November 2023 - Itinerary A 6D/5N
Thursday, 09-November to Tuesday, 14-November 2023 - Itinerary B 6D/5N
Tuesday, 14-November to Saturday, 18-November 2023 - Itinerary B 5D/4N
Saturday, 18-November to Saturday, 25-November 2023 - Itinerary A 8D/7N
Saturday, 25-November to Tuesday, 28-November 2023 - Itinerary B 4D/3N
Saturday 25-November to Saturday, 02-December 2023 - Itinerary B 8D/7N
Tuesday, 28-November to Saturday, 02-December 2023 - Itinerary B 5D/4N
Saturday, 02-December to Thursday, 07-December 2023 - Itinerary A 6D/5N
Thursday, 07-December to Tuesday, 12-December 2023 - Itinerary B 6D/5N
Tuesday, 12-December to Saturday, 16-December 2023 - Itinerary B 5D/4N
Saturday, 16-December to Saturday, 23-December 2023 - Itinerary A 8D/7N

Extensions

Day 1: Arrive in Lima

Arrive in the modern city of Lima. Upon your arrival, an NPE team representative will meet & greet you and transfer you to the convenient Wyndham Costa del Sol, which is connected to the airport. There we will recharge our energies for our fantastic experience ahead. Overnight at Wyndham Costa del Sol (No Meals).

Day 2: Lima / Cusco / Sacred Valley

Fly this morning for Cusco. Upon your arrival at the imperial city, drive through the Sacred Valley to Chinchero, a typical Andean village, where we have lunch and learn about the fantastic high-quality handicrafts done in this picturesque village by the local artisans. Afterward, we will continue our ride through the Sacred Valley of the Incas towards the superb  Tambo del Inka, where we will spend two nights. We will enjoy a welcome dinner at the hotel restaurant and have a briefing about our fantastic visit to Machu Picchu on the next day. Overnight at Tambo del Inka (B, L, D).

Day 3: Machu Picchu

Today, we will head towards Ollantaytambo’s train station, where we will board our first-class train to Machu Picchu. The sanctuary, which is located at a height of fewer than 8,000 feet in the «eyebrow of the jungle,» is encircled by a tropical mountain forest full of a variety of birds and orchids. Our guide will lead us through this fantastic world wonder while explaining to us the importance of this place considered sacred for the Incas. After our visit, we will return to Machu Picchu pueblo to catch our train back to Ollantaytambo and drive back to Tambo del Inka. On our return to Ollantaytambo, we will enjoy a superb dinner onboard the train. Overnight at Tambo del Inka (B, L, D).

Day 4: Sacred Valley / Cusco

This morning, after breakfast, head for Cusco with a full day to explore. See the Plaza de Armas, the revered Inca Temple of the Sun, the wonderfully ornate 17th-century cathedral, and other highlights of this thriving cultural hub and the center of the Inca world, where colonial structures sit upon Inca foundations. After our visit, we will check in at the Palacio del Inka hotel, located in the historic center. Today, dinner is on your own to explore this fantastic city on your own. Your guide will provide you with some recommendations for restaurants and where to go during the night. Overnight at Palacio del Inka (B, L).

Day 5: Cusco / Lima / Guayaquil

Today, we will drive to the airport for our scheduled flight to Lima, and continue to Guayaquil, where we will spend the night before boarding our cruise to the outstanding Galapagos. Overnight at Hotel del Parque (B, L, D).

START YOUR ADVENTURE HERE:

Recommended Expeditions

Galapagos Elite Catamaran (8 Cabins)

Galapagos Endemic Catamaran (8 Cabins)

DURATION

MULTIPLE
DAYS

WHEN

ALL YEAR

DESTINATION

GALAPAGOS
ECUADOR

TYPE

CHARTER &
PER CABIN

Galapagos Endemic 

The most recent, luxurious catamaran exploring the Galapagos Islands is the M/C Endemic.

With a capacity for 16 passengers, 11 crew members, plus a guide, this luxury catamaran offers a service ratio of virtually one-to-one.

The Endemic Galapagos Luxury Cruise, the first of a new generation of catamarans, combines attractive exteriors with roomy interiors for luxurious lodging, plus communal areas and open spaces where to relax, attend lectures, and enjoy fine dining.

Thanks to its design, the Galapagos Endemic provides exceptional stability when traveling around the archipelago. Navigation between the islands is smooth and quick.

Its eight Panoramic Suites on the Endemic are spacious and luxurious; four are on the main deck, and the others are on the top, making it perfect for groups of up to sixteen travelers.

Technical Specifications

  • Category: Luxury
  • Operating as of July 2018
  • Length & Beam: 115 ft x 45 ft
  • Draft to Baseline: 6.1 ft
  • Max number of guests: 16
  • Crew: 10 + 1 Service Officer + 1 Naturalist
  • Propulsion: 2 x 500 HP High Power Engines
  • Suite Sizes (Including balconies): 344 ft2
  • Suites Locations: 4 on the Main Deck + 4 on the Upper Deck + 1 Single on the Upper Deck
  • Single Cabin Size: 151 ft2
  • Electricity 110 V and 220 V
  • Charter Includes: Hotel Overnights and Airport Transfers in Quito or Guayaquil cities.
  • Extensions to the Amazon and Machu Picchu are available

The ship’s size allowed our whole party to disembark at all sites together, which made a big difference!

Charles C. – CO

QUESTIONS?


If you have any questions, please let us know. We are here to help you!

Ship Description

On board the Endemic, the eight Panoramic Suites are airy and comfortable. Four are on the main deck, and the rest are on the top deck.

Each suite has a balcony, personalized marine air conditioning control, and panoramic views of the islands, thanks to their floor-to-ceiling/wall-to-wall windows.

Each suite can be set with a matrimonial king-size bed or two separate twin beds, and they also include a desk, a small seating area, a closet, a sofa bed, and a private bathroom with hot running water.

The Endemic’s main deck, at its front, has a briefing area for lectures and briefings. It offers plenty of information about traveling through the Galapagos Islands through movies, books, and personal advice.

While cruising, travelers can enjoy delectable cuisine while taking in panoramic views of the islands from the panoramic interior passenger lounge and dining room.

Passengers may board and exit the catamaran from two platforms, making access to the vessel incredibly simple.

Our upper deck is accessible to passengers through inside stairs. There are four suites, a sun deck, and a private gathering place where guests can unwind and watch wildlife. A single cabin with a balcony is also available on the Endemic.

The Endemic’s top levels are also accessible to passengers via our outdoor stairs.

The Endemic has an outdoor dining space, bar, outdoor passenger lounge, BBQ station, jacuzzi, sun chair, and seating area on the Sky Deck.

While admiring the islands, excellent drinks are served on an open-shaded deck.

Deck Plans

Food & Drinks

Breakfast and lunch are provided buffet-style on board the M/C Endemic, and dinner will be based on a delectable menu and buffet, depending on the food specialist’s choices.

The passengers’ choice will be prepared for supper by our top-notch cruise service officer.

Any kind of special dietary needs must be communicated in advance to New Paths Expeditions.

Based on our guests’ nutritional needs, tastes, and traditions, we are adaptable and willing to produce unique and always delectable meals for them.

Itineraries & Activities

Itinerary A, 7 Nights

Day 1
AM: Arrival at Baltra Island Airport

Upon Arrival, an NPE representative will pick you up from the airport and transfer you to your vessel.

PM: Bachas Beach, Santa Cruz Island.

Get ready to be greeted by a beautiful white sand beach, recognized as a favorite turtle breeding location. Hermit crabs and a variety of brilliant red Sally Lightfoot crabs are sure to be present, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of some flamingos in the lagoons behind the beach. The remains of a rusty barge, which the Americans probably abandoned during World War II, also shed light on the island’s past as a settlement.

Day 2
AM: Darwin Bay, Genovesa Island

Step onto the white sand and coral beach created by a submerged volcano crater as you arrive at this horseshoe-shaped island. This is the perfect location for snorkeling in protected, tranquil seas with hammerhead sharks, rays, and an abundance of colorful reef fish. A short walk passes by a tidal lagoon and mangroves home to several terrestrial bird species, such as swallow-tailed gulls, red-footed boobies, and Nazca boobies. The best place to stop and take in the bay below is at the top of the rocky slope.

PM: Prince Philip’s Steps, Genovesa Island

Start your exploration near the base of the rocky staircase, where you might be fortunate enough to see a tiny colony of seals. Be careful to keep an eye out for flocks of Galapagos doves, short-eared lava owls, and storm petrels as you make your way up the 25-meter cliff face’s steep steps. Before proceeding onto a rocky lava plateau, a common nesting location for red-footed boobies and frigates, catch your breath at the top and take in the breathtaking vista.

Day 3
AM: The Twins, Santa Cruz Island

The island’s geological features shed light on its history and formation, even though there hasn’t been any volcanic activity here in a very long time. You can follow a track around the rim of two impressive, nearly identical craters that are side by side. Mockingbirds, Bahama ducklings, white-cheeked pintail ducklings, and Darwin finches reside on the nearby hills, which are abundant with ferns and Scalesia trees. You will also have the exceptional chance to explore some nearby spectacular underground lava tubes that molten lava has fashioned out.

PM: Sullivan Bay, Santiago Island

A strange black rope-like construction of cooled lava with tiny apertures known as «hornitos» (literally, «little ovens»), generated by the release of pressure built up beneath the surface, covers Sullivan Bay as a result of a relatively recent volcanic eruption. The Sally Lightfoot crabs and marine iguanas are abundant despite the environment’s appearance of hostility, and you may finish off your trip by swimming or snorkeling alongside sea lions and penguins.

Day 4
AM: Sierra Negra, Isabela Island

Isabela Island is one of the youngest and largest islands in the world and is still highly volcanically active. One of the island’s six volcanoes, the Sierra Negra, has the world’s second-largest caldera, measuring an astonishing nine by 10 kilometers. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the island and the surrounding volcanoes as you stroll or ride a horse up to the caldera and around it. As the scenery transforms from lava plains to guava-filled forests, you can see how the transition is from barren to lush.

PM: Wetlands, The Wall of Tears, Breeding Center, Isabela Island

The wetlands, which are close to Puerto Villamil and consist of lagoons, swamps, and mangroves, are a haven for migrating birds like stilts and flamingos. The Wall of Tears, an intriguing historical site constructed by inmates between 1945 and 1959, provides more insight into the island’s past. Lastly, a trip to the Breeding Center offers a unique chance to observe giant tortoises at all phases of life and learn about the essential work to conserve and maintain this fantastic species.

Day 5
AM: Elizabeth Bay, Isabela Island

This is a private area that is filled with wildlife, and that can only be reached by dinghy. Blue-footed boobies and penguins can be seen on the rocks of the islets that encircle it, and the bay itself has an extraordinarily tall and vibrant mangrove forest.

A fantastic spot for snorkeling and swimming, the cool, tranquil waters draw schools of fish and are a favorite gathering area for turtles, rays, sea lions, and even sharks.

PM: Urbina Bay, Isabela Island

The Urbina Bay, situated at the base of the Alcedo and Darwin volcanoes, is a result of a significant volcanic uplift in 1954. The effect is that the shore is covered in corals and marine life debris. However, endemic plant species and wildlife have already begun to flourish in a relatively short time. The stunning huge land iguanas, the biggest in the Galapagos, will undoubtedly be challenging to miss. Still, you should also keep an eye out for Darwin’s cotton plant, giant tortoises, and Galapagos hawks.

Day 6
AM: Tagus Cove, Isabela Island

Here, where the names of ships have been etched into the rocks, you can see why this place has been a well-liked mooring spot since the 1800s. This historical record is fascinating. A picturesque trail will take you around Darwin Lake. If you decide to hike further up the hill, you’ll be rewarded with a magnificent vista back over the lagoon’s glistening waters—a must-see photo opportunity.

PM: Espinoza Point, Fernandina Island

This unspoiled natural beauty area is considered an essential nesting location for flightless cormorants and is home to a large population of iguanas. A unique environment is produced by juxtaposing the lovely beaches and mangroves with the dark, lava-like flows.

Day 7
AM: Espumilla Beach, Santiago Island

Espumilla, which translates to «meringue,» refers to the surreal trail of foam that the waves leave as they lap this lovely white sand beach. The vividly colored Sally Lightfoot crabs that are abundant here draw pelicans, hawks, and other raptors like herons and eagles. This serene location on Santiago Island’s northern coast offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance for snorkeling and swimming among various aquatic life, including octopi, eels, and sharks.

PM: Buccaneer Cove, Santiago Island, Rabida Island

Over the years, pirates, buccaneers, and whalers have frequented Buccaneer Cove. Today, it is an essential location for turtle nesting and is well-liked by sea lions, sting rays, and turtles. Additionally, exciting rock formations brought on by erosion can be seen.

A red sand beach and rugged volcanic hills define the dry island of Rabida. Pelicans can be spotted nesting in the nearby salt scrub, and flamingos and common stilts can be seen grazing at the lagoon. Birdwatchers interested in the interior can also see Darwin finches, yellow warblers, and mockingbirds.

Day 8
AM: Mosquera Islet

This little, sandy islet, which is halfway between North Seymour and Baltra, is well-known for its unspoiled beauty. A variety of shorebirds, including lava gulls and herons, sea lions relaxing on the beach, and Sally Lightfoot crabs clinging to the rocks, will excite bird lovers. There is no set track on the island, so you can explore a little or dive in for a snorkel to see some sharks, turtles, and rays.

PM: Departure from Baltra Island Airport

Itinerary B, 7 Nights

Day 1
AM: Arrival at Baltra Island Airport

Upon Arrival, an NPE representative will pick you up from the airport and transfer you to your vessel.

PM: Dragon Hill, Santa Cruz Island

After lunch, you will visit Dragon Hill, situated in Santa Cruz island’s northwest. Here, you’ll get the chance to explore the island and spot land iguanas. Count yourself among the beautiful reptiles that faced extinction only a few decades ago. A flamingo lagoon, pintail ducks, and other indigenous birds like flycatchers and warblers can also be seen at Dragon Hill.

Amazing views await us up the hill after a short hike and snorkeling in the open ocean before getting back on the boat.

Day 2
AM: Kicker Rock, off San Cristobal Island / Witch Hill, San Cristobal Island

Kicker Rock, a unique eroded geological phenomenon, is the first place you see in the morning. While the boats cruise around the rock, you can take shots of where seabirds build their nests.

The following sight is Witch Hill, a cone-shaped tuff hill located southwest of San Cristobal. The Spanish name for the bird known as the vermilion flycatcher is where this name originates.

This lovely place includes a white sand beach and stunningly clean waters. A fantastic chance to go snorkeling.

PM: Lobos Island, off San Cristobal Island

You will be brought to Lobos Island in the afternoon, where you can see a small population of blue-footed boobies, frigates, marine iguanas, and excellent frigate bird breeding. The experience includes swimming with sea lions while snorkeling in this serene bay.

Day 3
AM: Osborn and Gardner Islets, off Española Island / Gardner Bay, Española Island

One of the longest white sand beaches in the Galapagos, Gardner Bay is home to sea lion populations and curious mockingbirds. The waved albatross uses it as one of the most significant nesting grounds in the world. You may snorkel with baby sea lions and a wider variety of tropical fish and corals in the Osborn and Gardner Islets, which are only accessible by small boats.

PM: Suarez Point, Española Island

There is a remarkable variety of fauna in Suarez Point. You can spot Galapagos doves, mockingbirds, and finches grazing close as you go by the nesting sites of Nazca and blue-footed boobies. Additionally, a geyser that may shoot water up to 25 meters into the air will be visible to you. You can enjoy seeing waved albatrosses take off across the water when you finally reach the top of the jaw-dropping cliffs.

Day 4
AM: Santa Fe Island

This island was formed due to a volcanic uplift millions of years ago and is inhabited by the endemic yellow-green Santa Fe iguana, Galapagos snake, and rice rat. There are two main trails on the island, one that leads to a beach through a forest of tall Opuntia (prickly pear) trees; another that takes you into the highlands and culminates in a stunning clifftop viewpoint where Galapagos hawks can be sighted. It is also possible to snorkel along the shoreline with the highly entertaining sea lions.

PM: Fausto Llerena Breeding Center / Highlands of Santa Cruz Island

Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, commonly known as the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center. There is a library, a museum, an information center, and a facility for breeding tortoises here. You may see tortoises of various subspecies ready to be reintroduced to their natural habitats at the tortoise breeding facility. Perhaps the most well-known resident of this Station was the Lonesome George turtle, which passed away in 2012.

Your day will include a trip to the Santa Cruz Highlands to see the renowned giant tortoises in the wild. Seeing these indigenous creatures, which give the Galapagos archipelago its name, is impressive. Since the highlands are home to finches and other Galapagos birds, birdwatching is another available activity. Before returning to the M/C Endemic, we finally enter lava caves to view the gigantic lava flows that created the islands.

Day 5
AM: South Plaza Island

Unique Sesuvium plants and Opuntia cacti are spread across the area, making for some of the most fascinating wildlife sightings in the Galapagos. Land iguanas are frequently found hiding in the shadow of cacti along the trail, waiting for a prickly pear to fall.

PM: Bartholomew Island

Pinnacle Rock, a ragged spear-like rock that has become a defining characteristic of the Galapagos, can be seen in its best light at this location. You must climb a set of stairs to reach the summit of the now-extinct volcano, where you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view after passing through a variety of colored lava rocks. The sandy bay of the island is a fantastic place for snorkeling as well, with the potential to see rays, reef sharks, and penguins.

Day 6
AM: Cormorant Point / Devil’s Crown, Floreana Island

Two stunning beaches can be found near Cormorant Point, one of which is pristine white and appropriately called «flour beach,» and the other is stained a dazzling green by a high concentration of olivine crystals. One of the most significant concentrations of flamingos in the Galapagos, as well as white-cheeked pintails and common stilts, frequent this saltwater lagoon. Devil’s Crown is a volcanic crater, beautifully cratered and primarily buried in water. It has a wide variety of marine life, making it an attractive location for diving and snorkeling.

PM: Post Office Bay / The Baroness’ Viewpoint, Floreana Island

Discovering the postal system created by British whalers in the 18th century and being able to participate in the tradition that has persisted to this day may be done at Post Office Bay, which offers a fascinating look into the island’s human past. The Baroness’ Viewpoint is named after an Australian baroness who came to the island in the 1930s and raised many questions about how she mysteriously vanished. This viewpoint is excellent for aerial observations of the nearby mangroves and other sites of interest.

Day 7
AM: Chinese Hat, off Santiago Island

Lava erupted to create this tiny island off the coast of Santiago Island, and the resulting cone oddly resembles a Chinese hat. You will pass past a sea lion colony on the short route that circles the cove, and you may also spot lava lizards, oystercatchers, and eagles there. Additionally, those who want to go snorkeling will find the channel of azure water that connects Santiago Island to be incredibly alluring. Here, you might come across rare Galapagos penguins, rays, and sharks.

PM: North Seymour Island

A relatively flat surface resulted from the elevation of lava beneath the water that created this island. You might witness land iguanas, sea lions, and turtles along the coast. Inland, you can find colonies of blue-footed boobies, which you might be lucky enough to see doing their charming courtship dance. The majestic frigate bird, whose males have recognizable red gular pouches that inflate during the mating season, makes the island its most notable breeding location.

Day 8
AM: Mosquera Islet

This little, sandy islet, which is halfway between North Seymour and Baltra, is well-known for its unspoiled beauty. A variety of shorebirds, including lava gulls and herons, sea lions relaxing on the beach, and Sally Lightfoot crabs clinging to the rocks, will excite bird lovers. There is no set track on the island, so you can explore a little or dive in for a snorkel to see some sharks, turtles, and rays.

PM: Departure from Baltra Island Airport

Itinerary C, 4 Nights

Day 1
AM: Baltra Island Airport.

Transfer to the vessel after landing at the Baltra airport.

PM: Cerro Dragón/Dragon Hill, Santa Cruz Island.

The name of the rocky hill has been attributed to its dragon-like shape, and the abundance of land iguanas found there. The trek up Dragon Hill is enjoyable along a rocky path that passes Palo Santo and cactus trees. Keep an eye out for birds such as flycatchers, warblers, flamingos, and pintail ducks in the saline lagoons. After this visit, there is a chance to go offshore snorkeling before returning to our vessel to rest and recharge our energies for the next day.

Day 2
AM Visit: Leon Dormido/Kicker Rock, off San Cristobal Island.

Kicker Rock looks different to everyone, yet no one can seem to agree. León Dormido, or «Sleeping Lion» in Spanish or «Kicker Rock» in English, is the name of this remarkable rock formation off the shore of San Cristobal Island. It can be regarded as having a faint lion or boot shape depending on your viewing angle. We sail around it since it is one of the archipelago’s most recognizable features and offers fantastic photo possibilities. Visitors who are lucky enough might even catch a glimpse of rays and sharks swimming beneath the surface.

AM Visit: Cerro Brujo/Witch Hill, San Cristobal Island.

The «pájaro brujo,» or witch bird, often known as the vermilion flycatcher in English, gives «Witch Hill» its name. Visitors are enchanted by the location, even without the little red birds, since it has a beach with white coral sand that is ideal for playing in the sand, kayaking, or snorkeling. Kayaking and snorkeling are both feasible in the calm surf off the beach. Riders in pangas pass some intriguing rock formations along the island’s coastline.

PM Visit: Isla Lobos/Sea Lion Island, off San Cristobal Island.

The moniker «Sea Lion Island» is accurate! Isla Lobos, one of the best snorkeling locations in the Galapagos, is a long islet that runs parallel to San Cristobal Island’s coast and creates a tranquil waterway ideal for novice snorkelers. A sizable population of sea lions that live on the island occasionally splash into the ocean and play around with swimmers and snorkelers. If your kayaking skills are rusty, it’s also a fantastic spot to practice them!

Day 3
AM Visit: Bahía Gardner/Gardner Bay, Española Island:

Gardner Bay is a stunning white-sand beach where tourists may unwind and soak up the sun next to sleeping sea lions. Gardner Bay is just two locations on magnificent Espaola island where visitors are permitted to land. It’s one of the nicest beaches in Galapagos despite the lack of wildlife (crabs and marine iguanas are common, as are some wading birds). Those who didn’t get enough snorkeling earlier in the day can relax in the calm waves off the beach.

AM Visit: Islote Osborn, Islote Gardner/Osborn and Gardner Islets, off of Española Island.

Osborn Islet, one of the best snorkeling locations in the entire Galapagos, is renowned for its calm seas and a wealth of marine life. In comparison, snorkelers play with sea lions, and vividly colored parrot fish nibble at the coral on the sea floor. A sea lion colony can also be seen close by on Gardner Islet. Due to its proximity, the guides may choose to visit one or the other, depending on the situation.

PM Visit: Punta Suarez/Suarez Point, Española Island.

Punta Suarez is a fantastic tourist destination and a personal favorite of many seasoned Galapagos guides. Of all the islands, it is the only location where tourists can count on seeing the magnificent Waved Albatross. Between January and April, the albatrosses go from Espaola, but they remain there the remainder of the year. In addition, there are marine iguanas, mockingbirds, red-billed tropical birds, blue-footed and Nazca boobies at Suarez Point.

Day 4
 AM: Isla Santa Fe/Santa Fe Island.

Despite being a small island, Santa Fe boasts a noteworthy trail that passes through a stand of towering, thorny cacti. An expanding population of indigenous Land Iguanas likes to eat cacti. One of the few native mammals to the islands, the Santa Fe rice rat, can also be found there. However, tourists hardly ever encounter the secretive rodent. Over a century ago, whalers wiped out the entire native population of giant tortoises on Santa Fe; however, in 2015, some Espaola tortoises were placed on the island. After the trek, you may kayak and go diving outside the island.

PM: Charles Darwin Station/Fausto Llerena Breeding Center / Highands of Santa Cruz Island.

The well-known big Galapagos tortoise Lonesome George lived at the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center. He was sadly the last known member of his species, and after his death, his species became extinct. The Fausto Llerena Breeding Center was established to ensure that it never happens again, and it is currently the residence of a large number of young giant tortoises from numerous species. These juvenile reptiles are raised in captivity by devoted park rangers and scientists for study and conservation, but once the tortoises are old enough, they are released back into the wild. Your knowledge of the Galapagos endemic species and all the initiatives and projects the Charles Darwin foundation has started to preserve these incredible animals in their native habitat will be enhanced by this essential stop.

We will travel to the lush Santa Cruz highlands after visiting the Charles Darwin station to witness the giant tortoises in the wild. The name of the archipelago is derived from these remarkable reptiles. Enjoy these gentle giants’ still beauty while keeping a watch out for a variety of indigenous birds. We’ll explore some intriguing lava tunnels to conclude our trip so that we can learn more about how the islands were created. This exciting journey puts a shine on the conclusion of our day! We’ll head back to the Endemic for a sumptuous dinner after the visits.

Day 5
Thursday AM Visit: Plaza Sur/South Plaza Island.

Visitors visiting Galapagos are always drawn to South Plaza Island, a low, rocky island with cacti and a healthy population of land iguanas. The Vesuvius plant, which can turn vivid red at specific periods of the year, is found on the island. It acquires an otherworldly appearance. As a result, they are making it one of the gorgeous locations on the islands. Be on the lookout for boobies offshore as you hike!

Transfer from the M/C Endemic to the airport in Baltra for your journey back to Ecuador’s main island. Help and goodbyes at the airport.

Itinerary D, 4 Nights

Day 1
AM: Arrival at Baltra Island Airport

Upon Arrival, an NPE representative will pick you up from the airport and transfer you to your vessel.

PM: Bartolomé/Bartholomew Island.

The recognizable, angular Pinnacle Rock can be found on Bartholomew’s small, picturesque island. There are only two tourist attractions on Bartholomew: a flight of wooden steps leading to a beautiful viewpoint and a tiny sandy beach. Even though there isn’t much wildlife on the climb up the steps (watch for lava lizards), the scenery is breathtaking. Due to the small penguin population and the penguins’ enjoyment of swimming around underwater snorkelers, the small beach is one of the greatest places to go snorkeling in the Galapagos. Countless fish and rays can also be seen, and, if you’re lucky, one or more sharks.

Day 2
AM: Corona del Diablo/Devil’s Crown, off of Floreana Island.

The Devil’s Crown, a chaotic group of boulders off Floreana Island, is thought to be the last piece of an ancient volcanic crater that has essentially been eroded through time. It’s a fantastic place for snorkeling because the interior of the «crown» is tranquil and frequently populated by playful sea lions. At the same time, the deep water on one side is great for seeing huge rays, sharks, and other stunning large marine life.

AM: Punta Cormorant/Cormorant Point, Floreana Island

There are two beaches and a flamingo lagoon at Cormorant Point, but curiously, no cormorants (which are found mostly in the western islands of Fernandina and Isabela). The landing area at Cormorant Point is a sea lion-populated green sandy beach, but a short stroll gets you to the other side of the point and a stunning white sand beach. You can wade up to your ankles, but avoid going any deeper because stingrays frequent this beach’s waters. Numerous them can usually be seen right off the shore on most days.

PM: Mirador de la Baronesa/The Baroness’ Overlook, Floreana Island.

Visitors can obtain a good view of the Floreana coastline from the Baroness’ overlook, accessible from a sandy beach via a short hike. From your tour guide, inquire about the «Baroness of the Galapagos» legend. It’s a murder mystery that has never been solved. There will be the option to rent sea kayaks or enjoy a panga ride along the coast after seeing the overlook.

PM: Bahía Post Office/Post Office Bay, Floreana Island.

Whalers and other ships used to cruise the oceans back in the day, frequently for years. Communication with home was extremely difficult for the men who worked these ships, so they would leave letters in certain locations worldwide. One such drop-off was a barrel at what became known as «Post Office Bay.» Leave your letter for a loved one in the barrel, which is still there! Additionally, the location has a lovely sandy beach ideal for lounging or snorkeling.

Day 3
AM: Sombrero Chino/Chinese Hat, off Santiago (James) Island.

Chinese Hat is a popular tourist destination for its peculiar conical shape, geology, and animal life. Because of the island’s fame for lava tubes and pillow formations, it was probably developed underwater before being brought to the surface by geological processes. In addition to being a helpful case study in volcanic geology, Chinese Hat is home to Sally Lightfoot Crabs, sea lions, and penguins. After the trek, you can go kayaking, snorkeling, and on a panga.

PM: Seymour Norte/North Seymour Island.

North Seymour, a famous city with tourists, has something for everyone. Fantastic photo opportunities are provided by the nesting Frigate Birds and Blue-Footed Boobys that are right next to the rocky trail. The island is home to a large number of land iguanas, which are frequently spotted happily nibbling on cactus pads. Countless sea lions are often present along the beach and close to the landing area. In if it wasn’t enough, the snorkeling is superb!

Day 4
AM: Caleta Tortuga Negra/Black Turtle Cove, Santa Cruz Island.

After breakfast, visit the Santa Cruz Lagoon, also known as Black Turtle Cove. Pangas are compelled to paddle through the maze-like mangroves to prevent the nearby wildlife from being disturbed by their motors. There may be sharks, sea turtles, herons, or even a school of Golden Rays quietly gliding across the water as you visit Black Turtle Cove. In Black Turtle Cove, swimming and snorkeling are prohibited.

Transfer from the M/C Endemic to the airport in Baltra for your journey back to Ecuador’s main island. Help and goodbyes at the airport.

Itinerary E, 5 Nights

Day 1
AM: Baltra Island Airport.

The Galapagos Endemic catamaran will be waiting for you when you arrive at Baltra airport.

PM: Bartolomé/Bartholomew Island.

The recognizable, angular Pinnacle Rock can be found on Bartholomew’s small, picturesque island. There are only two tourist attractions on Bartholomew: a flight of wooden steps leading to a beautiful viewpoint and a tiny sandy beach. Even though there isn’t much wildlife on the climb up the steps (watch for lava lizards), the scenery is breathtaking. Due to the small penguin population and the penguins’ enjoyment of swimming around underwater snorkelers, the small beach is one of the greatest places to go snorkeling in the Galapagos. Countless fish and rays can also be seen, and, if you’re lucky, one or more sharks.

Day 2
AM: Corona del Diablo/Devil’s Crown, off Floreana Island.

The Devil’s Crown, a chaotic group of boulders off Floreana Island, is thought to be the last piece of an ancient volcanic crater that has essentially been eroded through time. It’s a fantastic place for snorkeling because the interior of the «crown» is tranquil and frequently populated by playful sea lions. At the same time, the deep water on one side is excellent for seeing giant rays, sharks, and other stunning sizeable marine life.

AM: Punta Cormorant/Cormorant Point, Floreana Island.

There are two beaches and a flamingo lagoon at Cormorant Point, but curiously, no cormorants (which are found mainly in the western islands of Fernandina and Isabela). The landing area at Cormorant Point is a sea lion-populated green sandy beach, but a short stroll gets you to the other side of the point and a stunning white sand beach. You can wade up to your ankles, but avoid going any deeper because stingrays frequent this beach’s waters. Numerous them can usually be seen right off the shore on most days.

PM: Mirador de la Baronesa/The Baroness’ Overlook, Floreana Island.

Visitors can obtain a good view of the Floreana coastline from the Baroness’ overlook, accessible from a sandy beach via a short hike. From your tour guide, inquire about the «Baroness of the Galapagos» legend. It’s a murder mystery that has never been solved. There will be the option to rent sea kayaks or enjoy a panga ride along the coast after seeing the overlook.

PM: Bahía Post Office/Post Office Bay, Floreana Island.

Whalers and other ships used to cruise the oceans back in the day, frequently for years. Communication with home was extremely difficult for the men who worked these ships, so they would leave letters in specific locations worldwide. One such drop-off was a barrel at what became known as «Post Office Bay.» Leave your note for a loved one in the barrel, which is still there! Additionally, the location has a lovely sandy beach ideal for lounging or snorkeling.

Day 3
AM: Sombrero Chino/Chinese Hat, off Santiago (James) Island.

Chinese Hat is a popular tourist destination for its peculiar conical shape, geology, and animal life. Because of the island’s fame for lava tubes and pillow formations, it was probably developed underwater before being brought to the surface by geological processes. In addition to being a helpful case study in volcanic geology, Chinese Hat is home to Sally Lightfoot Crabs, sea lions, and penguins. After the trek, you can go kayaking, snorkeling, and on a panga.

PM: Seymour Norte/North Seymour Island.

North Seymour, a famous city with tourists, has something for everyone. Fantastic photo opportunities are provided by the nesting Frigate Birds and Blue-Footed Boobys that are right next to the rocky trail. The island is home to a large number of land iguanas, which are frequently spotted happily nibbling on cactus pads. Countless sea lions are often present along the beach and the landing area. In if it wasn’t enough, the snorkeling is superb!

Day 4
AM: Caleta Tortuga Negra/Black Turtle Cove, Santa Cruz Island.

The lagoon on Santa Cruz Island is known as Black Turtle Cove. Pangas are compelled to paddle through the maze-like mangroves to prevent the nearby wildlife from being disturbed by their motors. There may be sharks, sea turtles, herons, or even a school of Golden Rays quietly gliding across the water as you visit Black Turtle Cove. In Black Turtle Cove, swimming and snorkeling are prohibited.

PM: Playa las Bachas/Bachas Beach, Santa Cruz Island.

During World War Two, the United States had a military base in the Galapagos Islands, hence the name «bachas,» which is taken from the word «barges» in English. Beautiful Bachas beach is perfect for swimming and shallow snorkeling. Sea lions, Sally Lightfoot crabs, and shorebirds like whimbrels and stilts are typical. A short distance from the main beach lies a brackish lagoon that is flamingos’ favorite.

Day 5
AM: Bahía Darwin/Darwin Bay, Genovesa (Tower) Island.

Genovesa Island is shaped like a crescent and is made up of the long-since degraded remains of a prehistoric volcanic crater. One spectacular visiting destination on the bay can be reached through some mangroves and past numerous nesting birds, including Red-footed and Nazca Boobys, Frigate Birds, gulls, and other species. The Frigate Birds expand their vivid red throat pouches from February to June. Keep an eye out for stingrays stuck in tidal pools at low tide. After the tour, visitors can kayak, snorkel, or take a panga ride around the serene bay. Sometimes, snorkelers can spot hammerhead sharks!

PM: El Barranco/Prince Philip’s Steps, Genovesa (Tower) Island.

Prince Philip’s Steps is a breathtaking location for bird enthusiasts across Darwin Bay from the morning visiting spot. Visitors can spot the elusive Short-eared Owl at this site, one of the few places in the Galapagos where they are frequently spotted, after a brief climb up a rocky bluff. Keep an eye out for Tropic Birds, Red-footed and Nazca Boobies, and Storm Petrels. Following the tour, there is the opportunity to go kayaking or snorkeling again in the bay.

Day 6
AM: Los Gemelos/The Twins, Santa Cruz Island.

The «twins» of Santa Cruz island’s forested highlands are two sinkholes made decades ago when subsurface lava tunnels collapsed. A shady trail covers the small distance that separates the two sinkholes from the main road. Your guides will describe the unique forest found in and around the sinkholes, which is home to several Scalesia pedunculate trees that are unique to the Galapagos Islands. You can view finches, Vermilion Flycatchers, and mockingbirds at the Twins visitor center.

You will be driven to the airport in Baltra after our tour so you can catch your flight back to Ecuador’s main island. Help and goodbyes at the airport.

Itinerary F, 5 Nights

Day 1
AM: Baltra Island Airport. 

Transfer to the yacht after landing at the Baltra airport.

PM: Bahía Sullivan/Sullivan Bay, Santiago Island.

Lava fields surround the sandy shore of Sullivan Bay. Being only roughly 100 years old, the lava is not very old. The resilient «pioneer» plants—specialized flora that is the first to settle in a lava field—will be highlighted by guides. After a climb, visitors can cool off in the pool and even go snorkeling!

Day 2
Wednesday: AM Visit: Humedales/Wetlands, Isabela Island.

A wide variety of birds, including flamingos, stilts, whimbrels, gallinules, finches, pintail ducks, brown pelicans, and others, can be found in marshes on Isabela Island. Also skulking around the marshes are marine iguanas and occasionally a huge tortoise. The surrounding village of Puerto Villamil is seen from Orchilla hill, which is reached by a portion of the trail.

Wednesday: AM Visit: Sierra Negra, Isabela Island.

In 2005, the Sierra Negra («Black Mountain») Volcano was still active, and relatively recent lava flows and fumaroles may still be seen. The Chico Volcano site’s major volcanic caldera and several lesser craters are included in the tour. In the arid heights of the Volcano, there aren’t many animals, but hikers are rewarded with a fascinating lesson in volcanic geology and a fantastic view of Isabela and Fernandina Islands!

Wednesday: PM visit: Centro de Crianza Arnaldo Tupiza /Arnaldo Tupiza Breeding Center, Isabela Island.

A highlight of each trip to Isabela Island is a visit to the Arnaldo Tupiza Breeding Center. The Isabela Island subspecies of giant tortoises are hatched and raised in this location until they are strong enough to live in the wild. Hundreds of cute baby tortoises lumber around in raised enclosures to keep off predators like rodents and ants. Even the trip from town to the breeding facility is enjoyable because a boardwalk crosses some marshy wetlands, where it’s typical to see flamingos and other water birds.

Wednesday: PM Visit: Muro de las lágrimas/The Wall of Tears, Isabela Island.

A tall, broad stone wall known as The Wall of Tears was constructed not far from Puerto Villamil. The Wall of Tears provides a unique window into the human history of the Galapagos; Isabela Island previously served as the site of an Ecuadorian prison colony, and building the Wall of Tears was one of the punishments meted out there. Many locals believe it to be haunted.

Day 3
AM: Bahía Elizabeth/Elizabeth Bay, Isabela Island.

Numerous magnificent Galapagos bird species, including penguins, the Galapagos Hawk, Nazca Boobys, finches, flightless cormorants, warblers, and others, call Elizabeth Bay and the nearby small, rocky islets home. Visitors can spot schools of fish, Spotted Eagle Rays, sea lions, and marine iguanas in the crystal-clear water below. Visitors will never land in Elizabeth Bay; they can only view it from a panga.

PM: Bahía Urbina/Urbina Bay, Isabela Island.

A portion of Urbina Bay was forced upward in 1954 as Isabela Island was shaken by underground volcanic activity. Overnight, the bay’s topography shifted, rising five meters, and a kilometer of the previously submerged ground became wet. Desiccated coral formations are still visible on the trail that circles a portion of the bay. Urbina Bay has a wide variety of fauna, including lava lizards, giant tortoises, and land iguanas. The bird kingdom comprises mockingbirds, hawks, and finches. After the 3000-meter trek, which is very long, you can go swimming or snorkeling in the bay.

Day 4
AM: Isabela Island’s Caleta Tagus/Tagus Cove.

A short climb to a beautiful viewpoint and a panga ride down the shore to spot penguins are all included in a trip to Tagus Cove. After the climb, visitors can go kayaking or snorkeling, where it’s nearly guaranteed they’ll meet sea turtles.

PM: Fernandina Island’s Punta Espinoza/Espinoza Point.

Punta Espinoza is one of the most incredible tourist destinations in the entire Galapagos. This remarkable trip offers excellent wildlife viewing, interesting geology, and numerous photogenic locations. Visitors will cross recent (geologically speaking) lava flows, observe a Flightless Cormorant nesting colony, and cautiously navigate a low tunnel of marine iguanas basking in the sun. Look out for Galapagos hawks, Galapagos snakes, and lava lizards.

Day 5
AM: Caleta Bucanero/Buccaneer Cove, Santiago (James) Island.

Because of how stunning the islands are, it’s easy to overlook their fascinating human past. Pirates and whalers used to stop in Buccaneer Cove to repair their ships, fill up on fresh water, and capture tortoises for food, but little is left to show for it (sorry, no hidden riches!). Although there is no route here, it is a fantastic place for kayaking, snorkeling, and panga rides. Look for fur seals, sea lions, sea lion pups, Blue-footed and Nazca Boobys, and Galapagos Hawks flying overhead as the panga travels down the shore.

AM: Playa Espumilla/Espumilla Beach, Santiago (James) Island.

On Santiago Island’s northern coast is a beautiful sandy beach called Playa Espumilla, sometimes known as «Foamy Beach.» Trails at either end of the beach lead to a saltwater lagoon where lucky visitors might observe flamingos, Pintail Ducks, stilts, or other wading birds. These trails pass through some mangroves. Kayaking and snorkeling are both excellent off the beach.

PM: Rabida Island.

The unique island of Rabida is well known for its cactus groves and beautiful rock formations. Finches and other small land birds are frequently spotted flying over the cacti along the pathways. Brown Pelicans build their nests in mangroves along the red sand beach where the hike begins. From the beach, short trails lead to a few lagoons where flamingos can occasionally be spotted. After the climb, guests can swim or go snorkeling to cool off. Good kayakers and snorkelers may spot fish, sea lions, and turtles.

Day 6
AM: Mosquera Islet.

A sandy, poorly vegetated sand bar called Mosquera is home to Sally Lightfoot crabs, lava gulls, shorebirds, and sea lions. Visitors who are fortunate enough might also encounter a Yellow-crowned Heron! During the trip, guests can snorkel off the coast and have a guided tour of the islet.
Transfer from the M/C Endemic to the airport in Baltra for your journey back to Ecuador’s main island. Help and goodbyes at the airport.

Thursday, 06-April to Sunday, 09-April 2023 - Itinerary D 4D/3N
Tuesday, 09-May to Sunday, 14-May 2023 - Itinerary F 6D/5N
Thursday, 18-May to Sunday, 21-May 2023 - Itinerary D 4D/3N
Thursday, 01-June to Tuesday, 06-June 2023 - Itinerary E 6D/5N
Sunday, 18-June to Sunday, 25-June 2023 - Itinerary A 8D/7N
Thursday, 29-June to Tuesday, 04-July 2023 - Itinerary E 6D/5N
Tuesday, 04-July to Sunday, 09-July 2023 - Itinerary F 6D/5N
Sunday, 16-July to Sunday, 23-July 2023 - Itinerary A 8D/7N
Sunday, 06-August to Thursday, 10-August 2023 - Itinerary C 5D/4N
Sunday, 13-August to Sunday, 20-August 2023 - Itinerary A 8D/7N
Sunday, 24-September to Sunday, 01-October 2023 - Itinerary A 8D/7N
Sunday, 01-October to Thursday, 05-October 2023 - Itinerary C 5D/4N
Sunday, 01-October to Sunday, 08-October 2023 - Itinerary B 8D/7N
Thursday, 05-October to Sunday, 08-October2023 - Itinerary D 4D/3N
Sunday, 08-October to Sunday, 15-October 2023 - Itinerary A 8D/7N
Sunday, 15-October to Thursday, 19-October 2023 - Itinerary C 5D/4N
Thursday, 19-October to Tuesday, 24-October 2023 - Itinerary E 6D/5N
Thursday, 06-April to Sunday, 09-April 2023 - Itinerary D 4D/3N
Thursday, 06-April to Sunday, 09-April 2023 - Itinerary D 4D/3N
Thursday, 06-April to Sunday, 09-April 2023 - Itinerary D 4D/3N

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