Discover the Galápagos-By Land, at Your Own Rhythm 🌴

Why cruise when you can connect? Trade the ship for sandy feet and dive into a land-based Galápagos journey that’s personal, immersive, and full of charm. Wake up steps from the sea in cozy island guesthouses, feast on just-caught seafood, and get nose-to-beak with blue-footed boobies, sunbathing sea lions, and lumbering giant tortoises.

Each day brings a new adventure: hop on small boats for day trips to nearby islands, where you'll hike wild trails, snorkel with sea turtles and reef sharks, and marvel at marine iguanas and nesting frigatebirds. With expert local guides leading the way, you'll experience the Galápagos up close—through vibrant culture, jaw-dropping nature, and no boat cabins in sight.

This is the Galápagos, unfiltered, untamed, and completely on your terms.

DAY 1: QUITO

Upon your arrival in Quito, after clearing Immigration and Customs, you will be transferred privately to the GO Quito hotel where you will be accommodated for 2 nights in standard rooms, including breakfast and local taxes.

Quito stands out as one of the most captivating and lively destinations in South America. Nestled at the base of the Andes Mountains, it boasts a rich colonial heritage, awe-inspiring architecture, and picturesque vistas. The city proudly hosts a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which encompasses the largest and most well-preserved historic center in South America.

As you wander through Quito's charming, cobbled streets, you'll be captivated by the impeccably preserved colonial buildings and the array of beautiful churches and monasteries scattered across the city. Moreover, Quito's dynamic culture shines through its vibrant festivals, bustling traditional markets, and delectable local cuisine.

 DAY 2: FULL-DAY TOUR OF QUITO

Embark on a captivating tour of Quito that promises to leave a lasting impression! Your journey begins in the heart of old colonial Quito at the main square, where iconic landmarks such as the presidential palace, the main cathedral, and other significant buildings await your admiration.

Next, the tour takes you to Plaza San Francisco, with a delightful detour along the way to sample the traditional sweets of Quito, adding a flavorful touch to your experience. Plaza San Francisco is home to the oldest church in Quito, steeped in rich history and intriguing legends.

Your final stop is the breathtaking Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús, often hailed as one of the most exquisite churches not only in South America but perhaps worldwide, truly a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Following this cultural exploration, your tour ventures to the Equator, where Latitude 0º 0’0" marks the divide between the northern and southern hemispheres. At Ciudad Mitad del Mundo, you'll encounter the main monument symbolizing this geographic marvel. Don't miss the opportunity to capture a memorable photo with one foot in the northern hemisphere and the other in the southern, creating a unique memento of your visit to this extraordinary location!

DAY 3: ARRIVE TO GALAPAGOS

Your day begins with a transfer to the airport in time for your flight to the Galápagos Islands. Upon landing at Baltra, your guide will be waiting to greet you and accompany you to Puerto Ayora. The transfer from Baltra Airport to Puerto Ayora is a multi-step journey that starts with a drive to the Itabaca channel. Here, you'll board a ferry to cross to Santa Cruz Island. A scenic 45-minute drive then takes you to Puerto Ayora, where you'll begin your exploration of Santa Cruz Island's highlands.

 Santa Cruz Island boasts a diverse range of vegetation zones, offering a stark contrast between its arid coastal areas and refreshingly lush highlands. The humid zones in the highlands contribute to the drinking water supply for the town. This region is home to unique trees, vibrant ferns, colorful land birds, and a thriving population of giant tortoises, adding to the island's natural allure.

Your accommodation for the next four nights will be at the Ikala hotel, where you'll stay in comfortable suites. Breakfast and local taxes are included, ensuring a pleasant and hassle-free stay as you immerse yourself in the wonders of the Galápagos Islands.

DAY 4: BARTOLOME

Our adventure to Bartolomé Island will commence at the designated meeting point and time. Situated northwest of Santa Cruz, this island is renowned for its iconic pinnacle and offers one of the most picturesque landscapes in the Galápagos Islands. During the excursion, we'll delve into the volcanic origins of the archipelago.

Upon reaching Bartolomé, we'll make a dry landing and embark on a captivating walk along a designated path leading to the island's summit. Ascending 395 steps, we'll be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the island and its distinctive pinnacle, providing the perfect opportunity to capture an unforgettable photo. Along the way, we'll also encounter small lava tunnels formed during the island's last eruption. Here, endemic vegetation such as lava cacti and tequila plants thrive, often accompanied by sightings of Darwin’s finches.

Did you know that Pinnacle Rock was created by volcanic ash? After marveling at the stunning vista, we'll embark on a zodiac ride along the coast, offering us a chance to spot the elusive Galápagos penguin, the only tropical penguin and the world's second smallest species.

Following our awe-inspiring experience on Bartolomé, we'll indulge in a delectable lunch onboard the boat. Our next destination is Sullivan Bay, renowned for its exceptional marine fauna, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling in the Galápagos. The crystal-clear waters of Sullivan Bay promise an unparalleled snorkeling experience, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the vibrant underwater world of the archipelago.

DAY 5: SOUTH PLAZA ISLAND & OPUNTIA CACTUS FOREST

Our expedition to South Plaza Island will kick off at the designated meeting point and time. Known affectionately as "Plazas," this island boasts a remarkable landscape, and upon our arrival, we'll be greeted by playful sea lions at the shore as we make a dry landing.

Our journey commences with a leisurely walk through an Opuntia Cactus forest, but amidst the captivating scenery, we must remain alert for the presence of the smallest land iguanas in the archipelago.

 Continuing our exploration, we'll reach the breathtakingly windy cliff, a haven for red-billed tropical birds, swallow-tailed gulls, brown pelicans, and the majestic frigate bird soaring above. The trail follows the edge of the ridge for a stretch, offering mesmerizing views of the surroundings. As we progress, we'll encounter the renowned "single sea lion colony," comprised mainly of elderly male sea lions who have lost their territories. Surprisingly, they navigate rocky steps to climb the cliff, showcasing their resilience despite battle scars and shark bites adorning their bodies.

Following a satisfying lunch, our adventure takes us to Carrion Point, where we'll delve into the rich marine fauna of the Galápagos through snorkeling. With luck on our side, we might spot white-tip sharks, an array of fish species, sea turtles, and graceful rays gliding beneath the surface.

After this enriching journey, we'll return to the Itabaca Channel, where a waiting bus will transport us to Puerto Ayora's pier, marking the conclusion of today's memorable adventure.

DAY 6: TORTUGA BAY & DARWIN'S FINCHES

Tortuga Bay, situated southwest of Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island, derives its name from the Spanish word for "turtle." This pristine location earned its moniker due to being a favorite nesting ground for sea turtles. Renowned for its stunning white sand beach, Tortuga Bay is often hailed as one of the most picturesque in the entire Galápagos archipelago.

To access the beach, visitors can follow a well-marked and cobblestoned two-kilometer path that begins at the west end of Charles Binford Street. Before starting the journey, guests are required to sign in and out at the National Park control point located at the trail's entrance.

Along the path, nature enthusiasts can indulge in excellent birdwatching opportunities, with sightings of Darwin’s finches and various other seabirds. For those seeking active adventures, Tortuga Bay offers a range of activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, and surfing, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

DAY 7: NORTH SEYMOUR ISLAND & WONDERFUL SEABIRDS

 Your guide will be waiting for you in the hotel lobby to kickstart your adventure on North Seymour Island. This destination is renowned for its vibrant seabird colonies that breed throughout the year, making it a must-visit spot in the Galápagos archipelago. The 2.5 km interpretive trail winds along the coastline and through the heart of the island, providing visitors with an immersive experience amidst its diverse wildlife.

Prepare to witness blue-footed boobies and pelicans engaging in fishing activities along the beach, while graceful swallow-tail gulls and frigate birds soar elegantly overhead. Don't forget to scan the rocky shores for marine iguanas basking in the sun.

 Take a moment to pause on the rocks and you might be rewarded with a sight of playful sea lions riding the waves, enhancing the island's lively ambiance. As you venture into the inland section of the trail, you'll be treated to the spectacle of male frigate birds displaying their inflated red throat sacs to attract mates. Keep an eye out for land iguanas, a common sight in this part of the trail.

Throughout the year, visitors can witness various wildlife activities, from courtship rituals to mating displays and nesting behaviors on North Seymour Island. The proximity of nesting sites to the trail offers an excellent opportunity to observe these natural wonders up close and personal.

 DAY 8: BALTRA - FLIGHT TO QUITO

After your exploration and adventure in the Galápagos Islands, it's time to bid farewell to this unique paradise. Your transfer will be arranged to take you from your accommodation to the airport for your flight back to Quito.

Once you arrive in Quito, you will connect with your international flight that will take you back home. This marks the end of your memorable journey, filled with incredible wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable experiences in the Galápagos archipelago.

ADD ON AN EXCITING EXTENSION!

We are pleased to offer several exciting extensions to complement your journey in Ecuador and Peru, including the iconic destination of Machu Picchu. Here are some of the extensions you can consider.

·       Machu Picchu Extension.

Explore the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Marvel at the breathtaking landscapes and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the Inca civilization.

·       Cusco and Sacred Valley Extension.

Delve into the ancient history of Peru with a visit to Cusco and the Sacred Valley. Explore Inca ruins, traditional markets, and picturesque villages while learning about the fascinating Andean culture.

·       Quito and Otavalo Market Extension.

Discover the historic city of Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and visit the colorful Otavalo Market, famous for its handicrafts and indigenous culture.

Each extension offers a unique and enriching experience, allowing you to customize your itinerary and make the most of your journey through Ecuador and Peru. Let us know your preferences, and we will be delighted to tailor your trip to suit your interests and desires.

Included In Tour

·       Exclusive Ecuador English speaking Naturalist guide

·       Soft Beverages (Water, tea & coffee)

·       Transfers in Galapagos to & from the boat

·       Accommodation in double cabin

·       Excursions according to the itineraries (itineraries subject to change)

·       Free use of Snorkeling Equipment

·       Cruise Manager

·       Transit Control Card

Not Included in Tour

·       Flight ticket to & from Galapagos (USD 540 approx. p/p)

·       Entrance fee to the Galapagos islands (USD 200 p/p).

·       Use of wetsuit USD 6 p/p per day (to be paid directly on board)

·       Beverages

·       Gratuities for crew members and guide

·       Personal expenses

Travel Insurance (Highly Recommended USI Travel Insurance Services)

https://www.mariahtravel.com/travel-insurance

Dates available year-round. All itineraries are subject to change based on weather, bird locations, and local conditions.

Experience the magic of Cuba with Mariah Travel—where culture, nature, and birding come together for an unforgettable journey!