This 15-day Galapagos expedition aboard the Evolution Yacht offers an immersive journey through one of the most unique ecosystems on Earth. Travelers explore remote islands, encounter extraordinary wildlife up close, and experience dramatic volcanic landscapes and pristine marine environments. Each day combines guided excursions, snorkeling, and scenic navigation, creating a well-balanced adventure through the natural wonders that inspired Charles Darwin.
15 Day Galapagos Itinerary
Day 1: Baltra Island: Eden for Animals
a.m. Arrive to Baltra Island Airport
p.m. Daphne Island or Bahia Borrero
Your journey begins with an early flight to Baltra Island, the gateway to the Galapagos. After arrival and a brief inspection at the national park, you will meet your naturalist guide and transfer to the yacht via a short bus ride and dinghy crossing. Once aboard, you will settle into your cabin and attend an introductory briefing as the vessel begins navigation through the islands. In the afternoon, explore either Bahia Borrero or view Daphne Minor from a distance. Bahia Borrero features a calm mangrove inlet filled with wildlife such as sea turtles, reef sharks, rays, and tropical fish, making it ideal for a scenic dinghy ride. Alternatively, Daphne Minor is a historically important site in evolutionary research, known for long-term studies on Darwin’s finches. This first day offers a gentle introduction to the biodiversity and landscapes of the Galapagos.
Meals Included: Lunch / Dinner
Day 2: Isabela Island & Fernandina Island: The Archipelago’s Newest Work
a.m. Isabela Island: Punta Vicente Roca
p.m. Fernandina Island: Punta Espinoza
Begin your day at Punta Vicente Roca on Isabela Island, where dramatic volcanic formations create sheltered coves rich in marine life. A dinghy ride along the cliffs reveals nesting seabirds such as blue-footed boobies and flightless cormorants. Snorkeling in these nutrient-rich waters offers opportunities to encounter sea lions, sea turtles, rays, and a variety of fish species. Later, cross the Bolivar Channel, a prime area for spotting whales, as you travel to Fernandina Island. At Punta Espinoza, walk across striking lava landscapes populated by large colonies of marine iguanas. Observe Galapagos penguins diving into the water and spot unique species like the flightless cormorant. The island’s pristine condition and active volcanic features make this one of the most remarkable destinations in the archipelago.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 3: Isabela Island: Yellow Dragons and Underwater Pastures
a.m. Isabela Island: Urbina Bay
p.m. Isabela Island: Tagus Cove
Today focuses on the diverse ecosystems of Isabela Island. In the morning, visit Urbina Bay, an area uplifted from the ocean floor in 1954, exposing coral formations and marine remains. Walk across this unusual terrain while observing giant land iguanas and, during certain seasons, giant tortoises. The beach also offers excellent snorkeling opportunities among tropical fish. In the afternoon, continue to Tagus Cove, a historic anchorage once used by pirates and whalers. A dinghy ride along the cliffs provides views of seabirds and penguins, while a hike leads past Darwin Lake to scenic viewpoints overlooking surrounding volcanoes and the coastline. This day blends geology, history, and wildlife, with possible sightings of dolphins and whales as you sail onward.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 4: Santiago Island: Pinnacle and Lavascapes
a.m. Santiago Island: Bartolome
p.m. Santiago Island: Sullivan Bay
Visit Bartolomé Island, home to the iconic Pinnacle Rock, one of the most recognized landmarks in the Galapagos. A walk along boardwalk trails leads to the summit, offering panoramic views of nearby islands and turquoise waters. Along the route, observe volcanic formations that illustrate the island’s geological history. Afterward, continue to Sullivan Bay on Santiago Island, where a relatively recent lava flow has created a striking landscape of black, rope-like formations. Walking across this terrain feels like stepping into another world, with intricate patterns formed by cooling lava. Snorkeling along the coast provides opportunities to swim with penguins, sea lions, rays, and reef sharks, making this day a highlight for both land and water exploration.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 5: Santa Cruz Island: The Red Island
a.m. Santa Cruz Island: Bachas Beach
p.m. Rabida Island
Start your day at Bachas Beach on Santa Cruz Island, a peaceful white-sand beach known for sea turtle nesting and a nearby lagoon that attracts flamingos and other bird species. Enjoy a relaxing walk along the shore or optional snorkeling in calm waters. In the afternoon, visit Rabida Island, famous for its distinctive red sand and cliffs. A short hike reveals diverse birdlife and scenic viewpoints, while a lagoon behind the beach is often home to flamingos. The surrounding waters offer excellent snorkeling, where you may encounter schools of fish, sea turtles, and occasionally sharks. Optional kayaking or paddleboarding provides a different perspective of the island’s coastline.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 6: Santa Cruz Island: Realm of the Tortoise
a.m. Santa Cruz Island: Charles Darwin Research Station
p.m. Santa Cruz Island: Pit Craters & Highlands
Travel to Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island and visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, where conservation efforts focus on protecting and breeding giant tortoises. Observe these iconic animals at different stages of life and learn about ongoing environmental initiatives. In the afternoon, head into the highlands, where the landscape shifts from dry coastal vegetation to lush green forests. Visit a reserve to see giant tortoises roaming freely in their natural habitat. Explore lava tubes formed by ancient volcanic activity and visit Los Gemelos, twin sinkhole craters surrounded by endemic plant species. This day offers a deeper understanding of the islands’ ecology and conservation efforts.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 7: Española Island: The Perfect Beach and Blowhole
a.m. Española Island: Suarez Point
p.m. Española Island: Gardner Bay
Arrive at Española Island, one of the most wildlife-rich destinations in the Galapagos. At Punta Suarez, follow a trail past colorful marine iguanas, nesting seabirds, and dramatic coastal cliffs. Witness a blowhole that sends water high into the air and, during the appropriate season, observe waved albatross performing courtship displays. In the afternoon, relax at Gardner Bay, a pristine white-sand beach inhabited by sea lions. Snorkeling here offers close encounters with playful sea lion pups, reef sharks, and a variety of tropical fish. The combination of abundant wildlife and stunning scenery makes this a memorable day.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 8: San Cristobal Island: Darwin’s First Island
a.m. Kicker Rock and Interpretation Center
p.m. San Cristobal Island Airport
Visit Kicker Rock, a towering volcanic formation ideal for birdwatching and snorkeling. Continue to the Interpretation Center to learn about the islands’ history and ecosystems. In the afternoon, explore Cerro Brujo, a beautiful beach where you can walk, relax, and snorkel with sea lions, turtles, and rays. This day combines cultural insight with stunning coastal scenery.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 9: South Plazas Island: Galapagos Microcosms
a.m. South Plazas Island
p.m. Santa Cruz Island: Punta Carrion / Mosquera Island
Start the day on South Plazas Island, one of the smallest yet most vibrant islands in the archipelago. The island features colorful vegetation, including red ground cover and tall cactus forests. Along the trail, you will encounter yellow land iguanas, sea lion colonies, and nesting seabirds near dramatic ocean cliffs. In the afternoon, explore the waters near Santa Cruz Island with snorkeling at Punta Carrion or a visit to Mosquera Islet. Expect to see tropical fish, reef sharks, and possibly hammerheads. On land, observe seabirds and large groups of sea lions resting along the beach.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 10: Santiago Island: Penguins & Grottos
a.m. Santiago Island: Chinese Hat
p.m. Santiago Island: James Bay
Visit Chinese Hat Islet, a small volcanic formation with calm waters and unique lava landscapes. Walk across lava fields where marine iguanas sunbathe and Sally Lightfoot crabs move along the rocks. Snorkeling offers a chance to swim with Galapagos penguins and sea lions. In the afternoon, continue to James Bay on Santiago Island. Explore volcanic terrain, tide pools, and coastal grottos where fur sea lions rest. Birdwatchers may spot flamingos, hawks, and finches. The dramatic scenery becomes especially striking at sunset.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 11: Genovesa Island: Island of the Birds
a.m. Genovesa Island: Darwin Bay Beach
p.m. Genovesa Island: Prince Phillip’s Steps
Genovesa Island, known as Bird Island, offers incredible wildlife viewing. Begin at Darwin Bay, walking along coral beaches surrounded by colonies of frigatebirds, herons, and gulls. Continue along trails leading to cliffs and scenic viewpoints over the caldera. Snorkeling may reveal rays and reef sharks. In the afternoon, climb Prince Philip’s Steps to reach a plateau filled with birdlife, including red-footed boobies and storm petrels. Optional kayaking or snorkeling along the cliffs provides a different perspective of this remote island.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 12: North Seymour Island & Santa Fe Island: A Pair of Island Gems
a.m. North Seymour Island
p.m. Santa Fe Island
North Seymour Island is rich in wildlife and bird activity. Walk along trails where blue-footed boobies perform mating dances and frigatebirds display their red throat pouches. Sea lions and marine iguanas are commonly seen. Snorkeling offshore reveals rays, reef sharks, and colorful fish. In the afternoon, visit Santa Fe Island, known for its calm lagoon and giant cactus forest. Hike inland to spot endemic land iguanas and enjoy close encounters with sea lions along the beach. Kayaking or paddleboarding may also be available.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 13: Floreana Island: The Baroness & the Devil’s Crown
a.m. Floreana Island: Post Office Bay
p.m. Floreana Island: Punta Cormorant & Champion Islet
Start at Post Office Bay, where you can participate in a historic tradition of sending postcards via a wooden barrel. Continue to Punta Cormorant, where contrasting beaches of green volcanic sand and white coral create a unique landscape. A nearby lagoon is home to flamingos and other birds. In the afternoon, snorkel at Champion Islet or Devil’s Crown, one of the best marine sites in the Galapagos. Expect vibrant fish, sea turtles, reef sharks, and playful sea lions.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 14: Santa Cruz Island: Kingdom of the Giant Tortoise
a.m. Santa Cruz Island: Charles Darwin Research Station
p.m. Santa Cruz Island: Highlands
Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn about conservation efforts and see giant tortoises at different stages of development. In the afternoon, travel to the Santa Cruz Highlands, where wild giant tortoises roam freely in their natural habitat. Explore lava tubes formed by ancient volcanic activity and enjoy the lush green environment, which contrasts with the coastal landscapes visited earlier in the trip.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 15: Santa Cruz Island & Baltra Island: Nature’s Aquarium
a.m. Santa Cruz Island: Black Turtle Cove
p.m. Baltra Island Airport
On your final morning, explore Black Turtle Cove, a peaceful mangrove lagoon rich in marine life. From a small boat, observe sea turtles, rays, and reef sharks swimming beneath the surface. This calm environment also attracts a variety of seabirds. After the visit, transfer to Baltra Island for your return flight, marking the end of your Galapagos adventure.
Meals Included: Breakfast
+12
15 Day Galapagos Itinerary Includes
- Comprehensive pre- and post-cruise information material
- Daily buffet breakfast and lunch offering a wide choice of dishes
- Daily served dinner offering a choice of two main courses cruise
- Guides & activities throughout the cruise
- All transfers (with rest of group) while in
- Soft drinks, juice, coffee, chocolate, water and tea throughout the cruise
- Lectures and entertainment on board
- Snorkeling equipment & wetsuits (shorties)
- Kayaks and equipment
- 15 Days / 14 Nights aboard the selected yacht in selected accommodations
- Daily served meals or buffet offering a wide choice of dishes
- Naturalist guides & activities throughout the cruise
- Transfers (with rest of group) while in Galapagos
- Select wines, local beer, cocktails, spirits, soft drinks, juice, coffee, hot chocolate, water and tea are included throughout the cruise
- Lectures and entertainment onboard
- Snorkeling equipment (masks, snorkels & fins) and wetsuits (3mm long wetsuit)
- Kayaks, Paddleboards and equipment
- Galapagos National Park entrance fee ($200 USD adults / $100 USD children) *
- Galapagos Transit Control Card ($20 USD per person) *
- Starlink® Internet / Wi-Fi connection throughout the cruise
- Full meals on board (breakfast, lunch & dinner)
15 Day Galapagos Itinerary Does not Include
- Flights, accomodations, meals, excursions and transfers other than those included in the itinerary
- Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee - $200 USD
- Ingala Transit Control Card - $20 USD
- Beverages purchased at the ship’s bar (all-inclusive packages available)
- Gratuities to guides, crew and staff
- Extra expenses (communication, laundry, souvenirs, etc.)
- Personal travel insurance
- Flights, accommodations, meals, excursions and transfers other than those included in the itinerary
- International air tickets to either Quito or Guayaquil, Ecuador
- Gratuities to guides, crew and staff
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance and medical evacuation insurance
- Premium brands of wines, beer or spirits
- Mainland Ecuador arrangements (we’d be delighted to arrange these for you)
- Galapagos flights (required to be confirmed with Quasar) *
15 Day Galapagos Itinerary Highlights
- Close encounters with unique wildlife including giant tortoises, marine iguanas, penguins, and sea lions
- Snorkeling in crystal-clear waters with diverse marine species
- Exploration of volcanic landscapes, beaches, and mangroves
- Visits to important conservation sites
- Variety of activities including hiking, kayaking, and dinghy rides
Itinerary Map
Click on the map to navigate the itinerary
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Darwin’s Legacy - Evolution Yacht
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South America & Antarctica Specialists
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