Galapagos Voyage: Pirates & Darwin - Premium Adventure
Galapagos Voyage: Pirates & Darwin - Premium Adventure
9 Days Starting and ending in Quito, Ecuador
Visiting: Quito, Galapagos Islands, Isabela Island, Bartolomé Island, Santa Cruz Island, Española Island, San Cristóbal Island
Tour operator:
Tour code:
GPV
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
26 - 32
Age range:
12-99
Trip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Galapagos Voyage: Pirates & Darwin - Premium Adventure" for an unforgettable exploration of Ecuador's Galapagos Islands. This premium expedition offers a full week of cruising aboard the intimate MV Evolution, renowned for its spacious cabins and extensive public areas. With two landing sites visited daily, you'll delve into the diverse landscapes of the eastern and western islands through guided nature walks, snorkeling, Zodiac rides, and kayaking. Witness the majestic giant tortoises in Santa Cruz's highlands and learn about conservation efforts at the Charles Darwin Research Station. Enjoy the best guest-to-guide ratio in the archipelago, ensuring personalized attention from Level III certified guides. Your journey begins and ends in Quito, with a night at the luxurious Swissôtel Quito and seven nights aboard the MV Evolution, where you'll savor exquisite meals and beverages. This adventure promises a perfect blend of wildlife encounters, educational experiences, and luxurious comfort.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive Quito
Location: Quito
Accommodation Name: Swissotel Quito
Today is an arrival day into Quito. On arrival, you'll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Arrival transfers are included for everyone, regardless of which flight you arrive on today.
Premium accommodation: Swissotel Quito
Day 2 : Quito/Baltra/Daphne Major
Location: Galapagos Islands
Accommodation Name: MV Evolution
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Fly 600mi (965km) across the shimmering Pacific Ocean to Baltra Airport on the Galapagos Islands. After you pass the Galapagos National Park inspection, your guide will greet you and accompany your onward journey by bus and Zodiac to board the MV Evolution. The crew will welcome you on board and help you settle into your cabin and familiarise yourself with the boat. MV Evolution is a beautiful, intimate yacht, carrying only 32 passengers at a time. Because of its size, you can enjoy a more personal experience with nature and the wildlife of the Galapagos Islands. There will be a safety briefing and chance to get to know your fellow travellers and guides.
Begin this exciting voyage with a circumnavigation of Daphne Major, a paradise for sea birds including the magnificent frigatebird. As the sun sets over the Pacific, enjoy a welcome toast with your fellow voyagers and inhale the ocean views.
Premium accommodation: MV Evolution
Day 3 : Isabela Island/Fernandina Island
Location: Isabela Island
Accommodation Name: MV Evolution
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Punta Vicente Roca is at the northern edge of Isabela Island and a well-known snorkelling spot. Our landing site this morning is near an ancient volcano, which has formed two stunning turquoise coves with a protected bay. Board the Zodiac and enjoy a dramatic ride into the heart of this partially sunken volcano. Experience one of the great wildlife adventures as you take to the water and swim and snorkel among sea turtles, penguins and possibly sea horses.
Today we explore the magnificent lava fields of Punta Espinosa on Fernandina. This is the youngest and most volcanically active island in the archipelago and also home to one of the biggest marine iguana colonies in the Galapagos. Look out for flightless cormorants and the extraordinary marine iguanas. The open-air decks on the Evolution are perfect for wildlife spotting, and as we cross the Bolivar Channel we may witness these immense creatures gliding through the ocean.
Premium accommodation: MV Evolution
Day 4 : Isabela Island
Location: Isabela Island
Accommodation Name: MV Evolution
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Isabela is home to diverse wildlife and several volcanoes – Cerro Azul, Sierra Negra, Darwin, Wolf and Alcedo – all of which are considered active. Hike along the uplifted section of sea floor in Urbina Bay at the base of Alcedo and marvel at the boulder-sized dried coral heads. Our expert naturalist guide will explain how this landscape formed, among a backdrop of giant tortoises, colourful land iguanas and other wildlife that feed on the vegetation. Jump on the Zodiac for a thrilling excursion to Tagus Cove, where we look for penguins, flightless cormorants and pelicans along the cliffs before snorkelling in the turquoise waters.
Premium accommodation: MV Evolution
Day 5 : Bartolomé/Santiago Island: Sullivan Bay
Location: Bartolomé Island
Accommodation Name: MV Evolution
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Experience nature's finest handiwork at Bartolomé Island, where we hike to the top of a dormant volcano. From here, admire the dramatic panorama of Pinnacle Rock – probably the most iconic landscape in the Galapagos. The island is dotted with craters, cinder cones, lava flows, spatter cones and broken lava tunnels which run down from the summit, creating a unique lunar landscape. Bartolomé is home to sea lions, penguins and turtles, plus a kaleidoscope of tropical fish, sea anemones, urchins and sea stars.
The hike is not too strenuous and follows a set of steps to the summit; however, Zodiac drivers will take any non-hikers on a journey around the cliffs to observe the volcanic landscape. Swim and snorkel with sea lions and maybe penguins. This afternoon, hike across the unusual, swirly panoehoe lava of Sullivan Bay and see the flora colonising the landscapes. As we stroll along the coralline beach, we may spot American oystercatchers characterised by their black-and-white plumes and orange beaks.
Premium accommodation: MV Evolution
Day 6 : Santa Cruz Island: Bachas Beach/Rabida Island
Location: Santa Cruz Island
Accommodation Name: MV Evolution
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Towards the northern end of Santa Cruz Island is the exotic Bachas Beach, a sandy white-coral stretch that is a major egg-laying site for sea turtles. It is also home to one of the last remnants from the US military’s presence in the Galapagos during the Second World War. Discover this floating pier, where Sally Lightfoot crabs, black-necked stilts and whimbrels often congregate, on our morning walk before snorkelling in the azure waters where sea turtles nest.
Explore the red-sand beach of Rabida Island at the geologic centre of the archipelago, where doves, yellow warblers, mockingbirds and up to nine species of Darwin’s finches live. A small saltwater lagoon is also home to white-cheeked pintail ducks and black-necked stilts. Rabida is a great place for snorkelling and getting up close to sea lions, sea turtles and reef fish such as damsels and pufferfish. Embark on a guided kayaking excursion and watch out for brown pelicans and blue-footed boobies while savouring views of the sloping volcanic peak.
Premium accommodation: MV Evolution
Day 7 : Santa Cruz Island
Location: Santa Cruz Island
Accommodation Name: MV Evolution
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we visit Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island, a small, picturesque port town with restaurants, hotels, souvenir shops and other facilities. This coastal town is also home to the Charles Darwin Research Station.
After breakfast on board the Evolution, learn about the giant tortoise and the vital work being done at the breeding centre. Since 1970, more than 2,000 tortoises have been hatched, raised and released from the Fausto Llerena Tortoise Breeding Center at the Charles Darwin Research Station, which was founded in 1959 and was once home to Lonesome George, the last-known Pinta Island tortoise.
Later, visit the Wild Tortoise Reserve in the forested highlands of Santa Cruz to see and photograph these wonderful creatures in a natural setting. Before returning to the Evolution, enjoy free time in Puerto Ayora to discover more of the town.
Premium accommodation: MV Evolution
Day 8 : Española Island
Location: Española Island
Accommodation Name: MV Evolution
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The relative isolation of Española has resulted in an abundance of unusual wildlife and species and subspecies that are endemic to the island, including the Española (hood) mockingbird, Española (hood) racer snake, Española (hood) lava lizard, waved albatross and brightly coloured marine iguanas. Enjoy a captivating Zodiac ride before wading ashore to Punta Suarez through a sea lion colony. Walk along the cliffs looking for waved albatrosses, Galapagos hawks, hood mockingbirds and the red-coloured race of marine iguana en route to a blowhole, where waves spout 90ft (27m) into the air.
After lunch on the Evolution, swim, snorkel and kayak in the glistening waters off Gardner Bay, a long white sandy beach where sea lions laze in the sun, and schools of tropical fish swim. Owing to the sheer quantity of wildlife and variety of species on the island, Española will no doubt be one of the highlights of your Galapagos adventure.
Premium accommodation: MV Evolution
Day 9 : San Cristóbal Island/Quito
Location: San Cristóbal Island
Meals Included: Breakfast
Discover the fascinating natural history and learn about the settlements at the Interpretation Centre in San Cristóbal, which was opened by the park in 1998, before your Galapagos adventure comes to an end.
From San Cristóbal fly to Quito, where it's possible to connect with international flights later this evening. If organising your own flights, we recommend speaking to your sales representative about post-tour accommodation in Quito so you can fly home the following day and avoid any tight connections.
What's Included
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Eight breakfasts, seven lunches and seven dinners
Enjoy eight breakfasts, seven lunches, and seven dinners during your trip.
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Select wines, local beers, cocktails, spirits, soft drinks, juice, coffee, hot chocolate and tea
Select wines, local beers, cocktails, spirits, soft drinks, juice, coffee, hot chocolate, and tea are included.
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One night at the Premium Swisshotel Quito and seven nights in premium accommodation onboard the MV Evolution
Stay one night at the Premium Swisshotel Quito and seven nights in premium accommodation onboard the MV Evolution.
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Arrival transfers in Quito (to/from Swisshotel Quito)
Arrival transfers in Quito to and from Swisshotel Quito are included.
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Internal flights from Quito to the Galapagos
Internal flights from Quito to the Galapagos are included.
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Daily shore excursions, interpretive walks, swimming, snorkelling, hiking and panga rides
Participate in daily shore excursions, interpretive walks, swimming, snorkelling, hiking, and panga rides.
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Snorkelling gear and wetsuits
Snorkelling gear and wetsuits are provided for your use.
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Use of kayaks during the expedition cruise
Kayaks are available for use during the expedition cruise.
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Full educational program, including lectures on history, ecology, marine life and field interpretation
A full educational program, including lectures on history, ecology, marine life, and field interpretation, is included.
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Tips to the crew of the Evolution are included (only the cost of tipping the naturalist guide will be extra)
Tips to the crew of the Evolution are included, except for the naturalist guide.
What's Not Included
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International flights
International flights are not included in the package.
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Travel insurance
Travel insurance is not included and must be arranged separately.
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Single accommodation (available on request)
Single accommodation is not included but is available on request.
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Visas or vaccinations
Visas or vaccinations are not included and must be arranged separately.
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Tipping for the naturalist guide
Tipping for the naturalist guide is not included and is an additional cost.
Accommodation
Experience premium comfort with a night at Swissôtel Quito and seven nights aboard the MV Evolution. The MV Evolution offers spacious, air-conditioned cabins with private facilities, ample storage, and 360-degree exterior walkarounds. Enjoy amenities like a sundeck, lounge, hot tub, and open bridge policy for a truly intimate Galapagos adventure.
Food
Eight breakfasts, seven lunches and seven dinners are included.
Meals are served in one seating in the dining room, and each meal includes international and traditional Ecuadorian cuisine, fresh fruit and sumptuous desserts.
Select wines, local beers, cocktails, spirits, soft drinks, juice, coffee, hot chocolate and tea are also included on board. Certain premium brands of wines, beer or spirits are not included but can be purchased onboard.
Mode of Transport
The tour includes arrival transfers in Quito and internal flights from Quito to the Galapagos. On the islands, transportation is provided by bus and Zodiac to board the MV Evolution, a yacht carrying only 32 passengers, ensuring a personal experience with nature and wildlife.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of wildlife can I expect to see during the Galapagos Voyage?
During the Galapagos Voyage, you can expect to see a diverse range of wildlife including sea turtles, penguins, marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, sea lions, and a variety of bird species such as the magnificent frigatebird, waved albatross, and Darwin's finches. The islands are also home to giant tortoises and unique species like the Española mockingbird and the Española lava lizard.
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What activities are included in the Galapagos Voyage?
The Galapagos Voyage includes a variety of activities such as guided nature walks, snorkelling excursions, Zodiac rides, and the use of kayaks. You will also have the opportunity to swim, hike, and participate in educational programs about the local ecology and wildlife.
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What is the accommodation like on the MV Evolution?
The MV Evolution offers premium accommodation with the largest cabins in its class, featuring private bathrooms, climate controls, and ample storage space. The yacht has a generous amount of public space, including a sundeck, lounge, and a canopied bar. It also has an 'open bridge' policy, allowing guests to visit the captain and crew.
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Are meals and drinks included during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes eight breakfasts, seven lunches, and seven dinners. Meals are served in the dining room and include international and traditional Ecuadorian cuisine. Select wines, local beers, cocktails, spirits, soft drinks, juice, coffee, hot chocolate, and tea are also included on board.
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What is the guest-to-guide ratio on the tour?
The tour offers the best guest-to-guide ratio in the archipelago, with a ratio of 10:1. All guides are Level III certified, ensuring a high-quality and informative experience.
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What conservation efforts can I learn about during the tour?
During the tour, you will visit the Charles Darwin Research Station where you can learn about local conservation efforts, including the breeding and release of giant tortoises. The station has been instrumental in hatching, raising, and releasing over 2,000 tortoises since 1970.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
If you wish to make any changes to your booking, particularly if you need to alter any flights booked through us, please let us know as soon as possible. There is a booking or flight amendment fee of £40 per change and flight amendments often incur extra airline costs depending on the changes to be made and if the ticket has been issued or not.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Exodus has been trading since 1974
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Your final joining instructions and flight details, if booked with us, will then be sent out 2 to 3 weeks before departure. If you would like a hard copy posted, or if you require these any earlier, please contact the customer operations team. We advise that if you are booking connecting travel before receiving these, please ensure you leave plenty of time.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Travellers are welcome to opt to share a room with a tour member of the same gender for no additional charge. If you'd like your own room, we can request a single supplement so that you will have your own room throughout.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
You are welcome to meet the group after the tour has departed however there is no reduction in rate for joining a tour after the departure date.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Exodus Adventure Travels allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform exodus adventure travels, 43 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Exodus Adventure Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of exodus adventure travels charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.