The Galápagos Archipelago, Darwin's living laboratory, is home to an abundance of wildlife. Isolated from the mainland for million of years, it is a rare wilderness where animals have no instinctive fear of humans. Traveling onboard the National Geographic Endeavour II or the National Geographic Islander, experience up close to encounter with unique species, such as flightless cormorants, marine iguanas, and giant tortoises. 

  • Day 01

    Guayaquil, Ecuador
    Depart for Guayaquil and upon arrival, transfer to the hotel. It is either Hotel Hilton Colón (National Geographic Endeavour II) or Hotel del Parque (National Geographic Islander). 

    Lodging: Hotel Hilton Colón (National Geographic Endeavour II) or Hotel del Parque (National Geographic Islander)

  • Day 02

    Guayaquil / Galápagos / Embark
    This morning, fly to Galápagos Islands and embark the expedition ship. Be sure to be equipped for comfort as well as in-depth exploration. After lunch, begin your discovery of the islands and diverse wildlife. 

    Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (B,L,D)

  • Day 03 to Day 8

    Exploring Galápagos Islands 
    The expeditions can travel between Baltra, San Cristóbal, Santa Cruz and a selection of the other islands listed below. Each day you will have the opportunity to go on nature walks with local naturalists; swim; snorkel; or explore the waters by kayak. Listed below are some of the islands you may visit during expeditions:*

    Bartolomé
    Walk to the top of Bartolomé’s volcanic cone for a stunning view of Pinnacle Rock and the surrounding beaches. After the hike, immerse yourself among schools of multicolored reef fish. You may also have the opportunity to swim with Galápagos penguins.

    Santiago
    Follow a path along a series of tide pools and underwater caverns in search of Galápagos fur seals, marine iguanas, sea lions, shore birds, and Sally Lightfoot crabs. 

    Santa Cruz
    Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, home to several endemic species of giant tortoise. Then, tour the neighboring captive breeding program for endangered Galápagos giant tortoises run by the Galápagos National Park Service and supported by the Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic Fund. Take a walk through the town of Puerto Ayora before traveling into the highlights to observe and photograph giant tortoises in the wild. 

    Isabela
    Explore the largest island in the group, home to marine iguanas, abundant sea turtles, the only species of flightless cormorant in the world, and the only penguin species that inhabits the equator. Cruise by Zodiac and hike against a backdrop of giant shield volcanoes, and snorkel in the cool waters that often draw whales and dolphins to the area. 

    Floreana
    Hike to a turtle nesting beach and a lagoon that is home to flamingos and other bird species. At Champion Islet, snorkel among sea lions; then visit Post Office Bay, founded by whalers in the 18th century. If you see a letter addressed to someone who lives near you, the tradition is to deliver it by hand. 

    Fernandina
    Discover the marine iguana haven of Punta Espinoza as we hike over hardened lava flows. Galápagos hawks, sea lion nurseries, and rare flightless cormorants can be found while exploring this island. Snorkel among sea turtles, penguins, and the occasional marine iguana. 

    Española
    Walk among vivid green-and-red marine iguanas and unique lava lizards, and observe sea lions up close on a pristine white-sand beach. 

    *Scuba diving is available on select National Geographic Endeavour II departures. 

    Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (B,L,D)

  • Day 09

    Galápagos / Guayaquil
    After breakfast, disembark the ship and fly to Guayaquil as you will be transfer to the hotel.

    Lodging: Hotel Hilton Colón (National Geographic Endeavour II) or Hotel del Parque (National Geographic Islander)

    Meals included: Breakfast (B)

  • Day 10

    Guayaquil
    Depart Guayaquil this morning as you arrive home the same day.

    Meals included: Breakfast (B)

Details

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Cruise Line: National Geographic and Lindblad Expeditions

Cruise Ship: National Geographic Endeavour II

Traveling aboard the National Geographic-Lindblad fleet, you’ll enjoy the daily thrill of discovery without sacrificing comfort. Each of our ships provides an inviting home base with superior amenities, personalized service, and a vibrant yet casual onboard atmosphere.

Route details
Round-trip Guayaquil

Dates (9 nights)
2020 departures are available from January to December

Included

  • Transfers upon arrival / departure for guests booked on recommended group flights 
  • Accommodation aboard the world-class expedition ships of the National Geographic-Lindblad fleet or a luxury chartered ship 
  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary
  • Daily activities and excursions as indicated in the itinerary
  • Lodging: Hotel Hilton Colón (National Geographic Endeavour II)
  • Lodging: Hotel del Parque (National Geographic Islander)

Not included

  • Airfare to and from destination, as well as internal airfare where applicable 
  • Trip cancellation insurance or any other travel insurance
  • Visas
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Gratuities
  • Scuba diving*

Remarks

  • Day 08: *Scuba diving is available on select National Geographic Endeavour II departures. 

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