This 10-Day Galapagos Voyage from National Geographic Expeditions will Exceed all Your Wildest Dreams!
Six hundred miles off the coast of Ecuador lies the Galápagos Archipelago. And it is a world unto itself, forged of lava and isolated for thousands of years. The islands are known for their famously fearless wildlife and as a source of inspiration for Darwin’s theory of evolution. And that’s just part of the story. Set off on this Galapagos Voyage from National Geographic Expeditions for a 10-day expedition cruise!
Expedition cruises bring you to some of the most remote and pristine places on earth. And with flexibility built into the itinerary, you’ll have plenty of time to take advantage of wildlife sightings or other spontaneous opportunities that arise. Expedition ships come equipped with exploration tools, like kayaks and paddleboards, snorkeling gear and zodiacs, hydrophones and underwater cameras, so you can discover wild places close up!
Join naturalists on interpretive island walks, where you will learn about Galapagos wildlife. And even get the opportunity to meet endangered Galapagos tortoises! The Galapagos archipelago is home to an abundance of wildlife. Since it’s been isolated from the main land for millions of years, it’s a rare land where animals have no instinctive fear of humans. You will travel aboard the National Geographic Endeavor II, and experience close up encounters with unique species.
Itinerary Overview
Your Galapagos voyage will begin when you fly into Guayaquil, Ecuador. Stay in the Hotel Oro Verde before flying to Galapagos and boarding the National Geographic Endeavor II. Each day you will have the opportunity to go on nature walks with local naturalists; swim; snorkel; or explore waters by kayak, glass-bottom boat, or zodiac. The itineraries vary and are subject to Galapagos National Park regulations. These ships sail between Baltra and San Cristóbal and include Santa Cruz and a selection of the other islands.
Isla Bartolome
Walk to the top of Bartolome’s volcanic cone, where you will get a gorgeous view of pinnacle rock the surrounding beaches. While on the island, hike, swim, or snorkel among schools of multicolored reef fish. In addition, you may even get the incredible opportunity to swim with Galapagos penguins.
Isla Santiago
Explore a series of tide pools and underwater caverns in search of Galapagos fur seals, marine iguanas, sea lions, shorebirds, and Sally Lightfoot crabs.
Isla Santa Cruz
Isla Santa Cruz is home to the Charles Darwin Research Station, where Darwin eventually developed the theory of Evolution. Afterward, tour the captive breeding program for endangered Galapagos giant tortoises. Then, take a walk through the town of Puerto Ayora. Finally, travel to the highlands to observe and photograph giant tortoises in the wild.
Isla Isabela
This is the largest island in Galapagos, and home to marine iguanas, abundant sea turtles, and the only species of flightless cormorant in the world. Not to mention, the only species of penguin that inhabits the Equator! Then, cruise aboard a zodiac and hike against a backdrop of giant shield volcanoes. Lastly, snorkel in cool waters that often draw whales and dolphins to the area.
Isla Floreana, Isla Fernandina, and Isla Espanola
Hike to a turtle nesting beach and a lagoon that is home to flamingos and other bird species. Snorkel on Champion Islet among the sea lions! HOW INCREDIBLE DOES THAT SOUND?!?! Head to a marine iguana haven on Punta Espinoza. Here, hike over hardened lava flows, see Galapagos hawks, sea lion nurseries, and rare flightless cormorants. As if snorkeling with sea lions wasn’t amazing enough, snorkel among sea turtles, penguins, and marine iguanas! In the mood for more amazing animals? See swallow-tailed gulls, mockingbirds, boobies, and MORE!
What to Expect
Your expedition schedule is completely flexible, allowing National Geographic to take advantage of the unexpected. This will allow for adapting course to the conditions and opportunities that arise. Your expedition experience can be tailored to the activity level you choose, whether it’s light or moderate or a little of both. Travelers should be in good health, comfortable walking or standing for extended periods of time and over uneven surfaces, and able to get in and out of landing craft that can move. Daily activities may include Zodiac cruises, easy hikes, walking tours, and visits to cultural or historic sites, with options for more physical activities such as longer hikes, biking, or kayaking, based on conditions. All departures are family friendly.
National Geographic Global Explorers Program
This program, for young travelers, was developed with National Geographic Education. This interactive program teaches kids how to develop the attitudes, skills, and knowledge of an explorer. In addition, there are fun activities for kids of all ages, like recording wildlife in their Field Notebook or observing plankton fresh from the ocean.
The certified field educators are trained to optimize the learning opportunities found in the Galápagos. So Kids and teens will hone their observation skills and learn to capture and share their experiences through photographs, videos, maps, drawings, and more. With a range of activities to choose from—in the field and on board the ship—our flexible program encourages young travelers to explore their interests, whether it’s marine biology, photography or whatever piques their curiosity.
Accommodations
The National Geographic Endeavour II is a new, state-of-the-art addition to the National Geographic-Lindblad fleet. Presently, this ship carries 96 guests in 53 outside cabins. Also, equipped with a tools, like kayaks, Zodiac landing craft, a glass-bottom Zodiac, and snorkeling gear. Equally impressive, the onboard amenities include a fitness center, a spa, and a global gallery.
What’s Included
Your fare includes transfers upon arrival and departure for guests booked on suggested group flights. Accommodation aboard the ships of the National Geographic-Lindblad fleet or a luxury chartered ship as well as meals as indicated in the itinerary. In addition, enjoy alcohol (although not some premium brands). Unless otherwise indicated, your daily activities and excursions are included. Not only that, but also wifi for up to one hour per day per person.
Are you ready to book your Galapagos Voyage? Contact me today for your FREE vacation consultation!