Galapagos: Central Adventure - Galaxy Orion Yacht

After arriving at Baltra Airport, your Galapagos adventure kicks off with a visit to Bachas Beach on Santa Cruz Island. This serene white-sand beach, once used by the U.S. military during World War II, offers a fascinating glimpse into history, with remnants of old barges still visible. Stroll along the coast to find sea turtle nesting sites, and nearby saltwater lagoons often filled with flamingos, herons, and pintail ducks. The rich birdlife and the gentle beauty of this beach set a peaceful tone for the exciting journey ahead.

Begin the morning at Bartolome Island, where a climb to the summit reveals breathtaking panoramic views of Pinnacle Rock and Sullivan Bay. The island's barren, lunar-like landscape contrasts with its vibrant underwater life. Snorkeling here introduces you to penguins darting playfully, along with rays, reef sharks, and colorful reef fish. In the afternoon, walk across the striking Pahoehoe lava fields of Sullivan Bay. This surreal landscape, marked by ropy lava formations, is alive with pioneer plants and lava lizards. Snorkeling off the coast unveils another underwater paradise filled with sea turtles, reef sharks, and tropical fish.

Start your day at South Plazas Island, a small but vibrant island covered in vivid Sesuvium plants and towering cactus forests. It's home to a large colony of land iguanas, often spotted lounging under cacti, and dramatic cliffs populated by seabirds like swallow-tailed gulls and red-billed tropicbirds. In the afternoon, head to Santa Fe Island, known for its stunning turquoise bay. A hike through its giant prickly pear cactus forest offers sightings of the endemic Santa Fe land iguana. Afterward, snorkel in the calm, crystal-clear waters with sea turtles, rays, and colorful fish swirling around you.

In the morning, arrive at Witch Hill on San Cristobal Island, where a white-sand beach and turquoise waters create a postcard-perfect setting. Walk along the shore among sea lions and pelicans, and snorkel in the shallow waters teeming with marine life. In the afternoon, venture to Pitt Point, the only place in the Galapagos where you can see all three booby species — blue-footed, red-footed, and Nazca — alongside two species of frigatebirds. After a moderately challenging hike, enjoy breathtaking coastal views and another chance to snorkel in the surrounding waters, spotting rays, turtles, and reef fish.

Wrap up your journey with a visit to the lush highlands of San Cristobal Island. Unlike the dry lowlands, this region is green and humid, supporting a wide range of flora and fauna. Stroll through endemic forests and spot giant tortoises roaming freely in their natural environment. Birdwatchers will also delight in sightings of species like the San Cristobal mockingbird and flycatchers. After a final morning of exploration, transfer to the airport for your flight back to mainland Ecuador, carrying unforgettable memories of your Galapagos adventure.