The Galápagos is open all year round: warmer months bring generally warmer seas, while the cooler season tends to favor nutrient-rich waters and intense marine activity.
ECUADOR · NATURE + WILDLIFE
ECUADOR — WILD GALAPÁGOS AND QUITO
Swim with sea lions, walk with giant turtles
DURATION9 days
BEST TIMEWhole year
EXPERIENCENature + Wildlife
COUNTRYEcuador
THE JOURNEY
Route map
Puerto Ayora; Bartolomé Island; Plaza Sur Island; Quito
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FEATURED
Key highlights
1Giant turtles
2Galapagos penguins
3Bartolomé Island
4Plaza Sur
5Quito historic center
6Endemic wildlife
Swimming with sea lions, observing giant turtles and encountering species that evolved in isolation makes the Galápagos unlike any other archipelago.
SEASONALITY
When to go
A STARTING POINT
Suggested base itinerary
DAY 1
Arrival in Puerto Ayora
Arrival in Puerto Ayora and first reading of the archipelago, with time for the coast and the environment of Santa Cruz.
DAY 2
Puerto Ayora and introduction to the Galapagos
Santa Cruz turtle breeding center and natural areas showcase Galápagos fauna and conservation.
DAY 3
Bartolomé Island
Excursion to Bartolomé Island with a trail to the viewpoint, volcanic landscapes and opportunities to observe marine life.
DAY 4
Puerto Ayora: nature in Santa Cruz
Day in Santa Cruz for beaches, snorkeling or a short excursion chosen according to permits and marine conditions.
DAY 5
Plaza Sur Island
Plaza Sur on a boat trip to observe endemic fauna, birds and coastal landscapes.
DAY 6
Puerto Ayora in the rhythm of nature
New day of nature in the Galapagos, with snorkeling, the beach or another nearby island according to the chosen schedule.
DAY 7
Puerto Ayora → Quito
Flight to the mainland and arrival in Quito.
DAY 8
Quito
Quito's historic center, churches, squares and viewpoints of the Andean capital.
DAY 9
Closing
Last hours in Quito and closing.
THE EXPERIENCE
The spirit of the journey
Galápagos puts endemic wildlife at the center of the journey; Quito adds colonial architecture and the Andean context of mainland Ecuador.
YOUR WAY
I want to design my trip now!Customize your trip
This itinerary is a starting point. Order, duration, hotels and experiences can be customized to your pace and interests.