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Ecuador Wildlife Tour

Embark on a five-day journey aboard the Seaman Journey, discovering the marvels of the Galápagos Islands, one of the planet's most untouched and biodiverse ecosystems, featuring iconic destinations like San Cristobal, Española, and Floreana Islands, all rich in unique wildlife and stunning scenery.

Key information

  • Group wildlife tour
  • Maximum group size of 16 participants
  • Starts in San Cristóbal Island and ends in Baltra
  • Naturalist bilingual guide - level II or III (English and Spanish)
  • Children from 4 to 18 years old can join under the supervision of a parent or guardian
  • Park fee and local taxes not included

Highlights

  • 4 days of activities
  • Chance to see penguins, marine turtles, sea lions, and seabirds
  • Visit Mangle and Vicente Roca Points, Tagus Cove, and Darwin Bay
  • 4 nights accommodation
  • Daily meals
  • Transfers to and from the airport

Styles


5 activity days in English
The organizer also speaks: Spanish
Group size: Maximum of 16 participants
Airport transfer included: Seymour Airport
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Accommodation

Facilities

  • Air-conditioned public areas
  • Air-conditioned rooms
  • Dining area
  • Multilingual staff
  • Restaurant
  • Meeting room
  • Wireless internet

The Galapagos Seaman Journey is a first-class catamaran that offers a luxurious and adventurous experience in the Galapagos Islands. With a capacity for 16 passengers, it combines comfort, elegance, and stability. Guests can enjoy encounters with endemic species and relax in well-furnished, spacious areas and expansive decks while taking in breathtaking ocean views. With a bar and lounge area staffed by dedicated personnel, this catamaran is the perfect choice for an unforgettable experience in the Galapagos.

First-class or superior expedition cruise

With a capacity of 16 passengers, this cruise is perfect for families and friends looking for a niche boutique experience in the Galapagos.

Activities for everyone

On board, there will be plenty of activities to choose from, like snorkeling, kayaking, hiking, and more.

Spacious suites and cabins

On the main deck, there are six standard suites, and on the upper deck, there are two matrimonial suites.

Cabins

  • Panoramic windows to enjoy the wonderful landscapes of the islands
  • Private bathroom, hot or cold water, hair dryer, toiletries
  • Air conditioning with independent controls
  • Twin beds in standard suites
  • Queen beds in matrimonial cabins
  • Sofa beds for converting the matrimonial cabin into a triple room
  • Safe box in all cabins for personal belongings

Facilities

  • Indoor dining and living room
  • Al fresco dining room
  • Tanning area
  • Cocktail area
  • Lounge area

Enjoy aboard

  • Menus for special requirements (vegan, vegetarian, kosher, gluten-free)
  • Organic toiletries and amenities by ECO TERRA
  • Interactive cooking lessons
  • Four sea kayaks
  • Snorkeling equipment
  • All sizes of wetsuits available for rent

Commitment to the environment

Galapagos Seaman Journey uses good quality fuel, as well as a manufacturer's certificate validating the boat's machinery as a minimum pollution component. It has one of the lowest fuel consumption rates per guest on any yacht in the Galapagos, being within the lower one percent consumption range. At the anchoring sites, the main machines are switched off and only one of the generators is allowed to work, its power (60 hp) ensures that it is a low noise source, and the machines are also lined on the inside with noise-insulating material.

The catamaran, when underway or when anchored in any permitted location on the islands, uses lights necessary only for the activity in all external sectors of the decks, so as not to affect the nocturnal marine life. Food waste that is discharged into the sea passes through a food grinder during navigation.

The same process is done with black water, which is filtered until it reaches the status of potable water. No liquid ballast is used for the operation of the catamaran and tank cleaning is done exclusively during dry dock. They also maintain a means of communication with the community to clarify doubts about the environmental management of the project. They support activities that contribute to the sustainability of community relations as well.

Used lubricating oils and similar are rigorously retained for delivery to the port and other waste is managed according to the procedures of the approved waste management plan. The paints used on the catamaran are lead-free and they prevent the attachment of sessile organisms such as mollusks or algae, which is also known as "antifouling." This reduces the catamaran's environmental impact when sailing.

Laundry

Most hotels on the mainland offer laundry service for a nominal fee, provided you stay long enough to get your clothes washed (usually at least one day). Some hotels will allow you to leave your dirty clothes to be washed while you are in the Galapagos and pick them up clean on your return, but make special arrangements with the hotel receptionist so that your clothes are not lost. They do not offer laundry service on yachts.

Smoking policy

Smoking is not permitted inside the yachts but is allowed in designated areas on the outside decks. Park regulations prohibit smoking on all Galapagos Islands.

Program

Itinerary

Day 1: Flight to Galapagos - Bartolome Island

On this day, you will fly to the Galapagos Island. Due to the Galapagos Government, a fee of 20 USD must be paid for the migration control card. Once in Santa Cruz, passengers must go through an airport inspection point to ensure that no foreign plants or animals are being introduced to the archipelago. Also, this inspection point is where passengers have to pay for the entrance to the Galapagos National Park at an additional cost of 200 USD for foreign passengers and 100 USD for children (under 12 years old). Later on, your guide will pick you up and carry your luggage to the bus.

Passengers will arrive at the Catamaran Seaman Journey on a motorized boat called Panga. Upon arrival in the Galapagos, travelers are greeted by the stunning landscapes of Bartolome Island, situated across Sullivan Bay. It has an altitude of 114 meters, from where you can observe some of the most beautiful scenes of the Galapagos Islands such as volcanic cones, lunar-like craters, lava fields, and the famous Toba-formed pinnacle eroded by the sea. There is very little vegetation on this island.

It has two breathtaking beaches where marine turtles exist and at the base of the pinnacle, a tiny colony of Galapagos penguins. The island's dramatic volcanic features, such as its iconic Toba-formed pinnacle and craters, provide a breathtaking backdrop for exploration. Visitors can enjoy hiking to the summit for panoramic views of the surrounding islands and observe unique wildlife, including Galapagos penguins and marine turtles at its pristine beaches. The stark beauty of the landscape, with minimal vegetation, creates a lunar-like atmosphere that is both otherworldly and captivating.

Day 2: Mosquera Islet - North Seymour

The second day begins with a visit to Mosquera Islet, known for its striking contrast of white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and black lava rocks. Located between North Seymour and Baltra, Mosquera Islet is one of the smallest islands in the Galapagos. It is of volcanic origin, formed by geological uplift, has no visible crater, and its terrain is very flat. One of the most striking features of Mosquera is the contrast of colors. A beautiful beach of white sand, transparent turquoise waters, lush green vegetation, and jet-black lava rocks.

Landscape photography is highly recommended here, especially in the golden light conditions of early morning or at sunset. This small island is perfect for photography enthusiasts who can capture its vibrant colors during sunrise or sunset. Later, the journey continues to North Seymour, where visitors can witness fascinating wildlife interactions. The flat terrain is home to magnificent frigate birds and blue-footed boobies performing their courtship displays. The combination of rugged coastlines and playful sea lions adds to the island's charm, making it a paradise for nature lovers.

North Seymour is a raised island (rather than volcanic). Therefore, it is generally flat and filled with rocks. There are good nesting sites here for a large population of magnificent frigatebirds. Blue-footed boobies perform their courtship dance in the more open areas, and swallow-tailed gulls perch on the cliff edges. Despite the tremendous surf that can pound the outer shore, sea lions haul out onto the beach and can be found body-surfing.

Day 3: Genovesa Island, El Barranco - The Cliff - Darwin Bay

Day three takes travelers to Genovese Island, specifically to El Barranco. The trail through volcanic rock leads to stunning cliff views where visitors can observe nesting seabirds like red-footed boobies and storm petrels. This area is geologically significant, showcasing the island's youngest formations. The visitor site of El Barranco is located in the southern part of Darwin Bay on Genovesa Island. The trail is on volcanic rock, consists of one and a half kilometers, and can be done in about two hours.

The youngest area of ​​the island, from a geological point of view, lies in this area. The cliff is located in the south and is composed of very fragile lava. The natural erosion in these lava flows has become the ideal place for nesting Storm Petrels. You can see two species of petrels that nest in cavities and holes in the lava. One of its main predators is the short-eared owl. The red-footed booby nests are only in the outer islands of the archipelago: Punta Pitt, Gardner (Floreana), Wolf, Darwin, and Genovesa. Also present on this island is the masked booby.

During the “panga rides” along the cliffs, fur sea lions and several species of seabirds can be seen. In the afternoon, Darwin Bay offers a wet landing on a beautiful coral beach, ideal for birdwatching. The diverse avian population here provides excellent opportunities for observing unique species in their natural habitats, enhancing the experience for ornithologists and casual birdwatchers alike. This bay originated when the crater of this island collapsed below sea level.

The wet landing is on a beautiful white coral sandy beach. This island is a favorite destination for birdwatchers, allowing the observation of several species including red-footed boobies, masked boobies, wandering tattlers, lava gulls, whimbrels, yellow-crowned and black-crowned lava herons, and yellow warblers. Continuing on the trail, visitors gradually climb to the edge of the cliff, where they can see Red-Foots nesting in the Mangrove trees below.

Birdwatching opportunities include sightings of sharp-beaked finches, large cactus and ground finches, Galapagos doves, and swallow-tailed gulls. At the end of the trail, at the cliff's edge, an incredible view of the island and the many birds living there can be observed.

Day 4: Squares, Santa Cruz - Santa Fe

The fourth day features a visit to the Plazas Islands, where unique species such as smaller land iguanas thrive due to their specific diet of tunas. The islands' rugged cliffs are nesting grounds for swallow-tailed gulls and other seabirds, providing an excellent opportunity to see these creatures up close. Plazas is located to the east of Santa Cruz Island and forms part of two islands known as Islas Plazas. Despite its small size, some of the most interesting and outstanding species of the Galapagos are found here.

The Plazas' land iguanas are smaller than their relatives found on other islands. Throughout the island, there are several hybrid iguanas, a result of crossing a male marine iguana and a female land iguana. They are unique, recognizable at first glance by their black or gray color, with a land iguana's crest, but the face and tail of the marine iguana. The large population of iguanas is due to the presence of prickly pears, their favorite food. Swallow-tailed gulls nesting in the rugged cliffs are seen along with other seabirds such as Audubon shearwaters, red-billed tropicbirds, and frigate birds.

In the afternoon, travelers explore Santa Fe, characterized by its flat terrain and endemic species like the Galapagos hawk. Snorkeling in its clear waters allows visitors to interact with sea lions and tropical fish, making it a memorable experience filled with adventure and discovery. Located in the southeastern part of the Galapagos, this island was formed from an uplift instead of a volcanic origin, which is why it is mostly flat. There are some theories that suggest this could be the oldest island in the Archipelago.

Santa Fe is home to a number of endemic species like the Galapagos hawk, Galapagos snake, Galapagos mockingbird, rice rats, and one of the two species of land iguanas on the islands. After disembarking in the beautiful and clear waters, you will be in contact with one of the many sea lion colonies. Along the trail, many salt bushes can be seen as well as giant prickly pear cacti: gigantism is a characteristic of oceanic islands. There are great possibilities for snorkeling with playful sea lions and tropical fish.

Day 5: David Rodriguez Land Tortoise Breeding Center

The final day culminates at the David Rodriguez Tortoise Breeding Centre, where conservation efforts for giant tortoises are showcased. This center plays a crucial role in preserving these iconic creatures in an environment that mirrors their natural habitat. Visitors learn about ongoing conservation initiatives while observing tortoises at various stages of development.

This educational experience emphasizes the importance of protecting Galapagos wildlife before heading back to San Cristobal airport for departure, leaving travelers with lasting memories of this extraordinary journey through one of the world’s unique ecosystems. In 2002, the Galapagos National Park Service undertook a program for the breeding and care of tortoises in captivity, establishing for this purpose the Tortoise Breeding Center at that time with the name of Jacinto Gordillo.

In 2016, it changed its name to the Tortoise Breeding Center with the name of “David Rodriguez,” in recognition of the 39 years of service to the Institution of the Park Ranger. The David Rodriguez Tortoise Breeding Center is located in the southeast of San Cristobal, 22.5 kilometers from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. Access is by land; The bus trip takes approximately 40 minutes and is located in the vicinity of Cerro Colorado.

This breeding center has been built to improve the population status of giant tortoises, Chelonoides chathamensis of San Cristóbal Island in an environment with conditions similar to their natural state, and in this way, promote the tourist development of San Cristóbal. After the visit, you will be transferred to the San Cristobal airport in time for your flight back to the mainland.

About the tour

The highlight of this itinerary is Genovesa Island and the possibility of walking to the cliff at El Barranco, observing thousands of sea birds fluttering around. Of course, this obvious Red Footed Booby is ever-present. Darwin Bay offers great encounters with seabirds and top-class snorkeling. Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Galápagos Islands as you snorkel with playful sea lions, graceful turtles, and vibrant marine life at top spots like Mangle Point and Vicente Roca Point.

Stroll among majestic giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and a variety of exotic bird species on Isabela and Santa Cruz Islands, immersing yourself in the unique biodiversity that defines this archipelago. Explore the dramatic volcanic landscapes of Bartolome and Santiago Islands, where you can witness stunning lava flows and craters that tell the story of the island's geological history. Discover hidden lagoons and lush mangrove forests teeming with wildlife at Punta Moreno and Chinese Hat Islet, perfect for nature lovers seeking tranquility.

Delve into the rich history of Tagus Cove, once a refuge for pirates and whalers, adding a layer of intrigue to your adventure. Marvel at unique species like the flightless cormorant, Galápagos penguins, and Darwin’s finches, which highlight the islands' ecological significance. Finally, unwind aboard the Seaman Journey, enjoying comfortable accommodations and expertly guided excursions that ensure an unforgettable experience in one of the world's most remarkable natural wonders.

Galapagos National Park entrance fee

It costs 200 USD (or 100 USD for children under 12) is paid at Baltra or San Cristóbal airport. Please be sure to carry the above amounts in cash. No credit cards or traveler's checks are accepted. Please note that 100 USD bills are not accepted in Galapagos.

Location

The tour will take place in Ecuador.

Galapagos Islands

The Galápagos Islands are an extraordinary archipelago located in the Pacific Ocean, renowned for their unique biodiversity and stunning landscapes. Formed by volcanic activity, these islands are home to a variety of endemic species, including the famous Galápagos tortoises and blue-footed boobies, making them a living laboratory for evolution. Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems, from lush highlands to arid coastal areas, and witness the remarkable adaptations of wildlife.

The islands are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, emphasizing their ecological significance and the importance of conservation efforts to protect their fragile environment. With activities like snorkeling, hiking, and wildlife observation, the Galápagos offer an immersive experience into one of the planet's most pristine natural settings, attracting nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Food

All meals on board the cruise are included. Latin Trails have their own hydroponic orchards on San Cristobal Island, where they harvest produce such as lettuce, tomatoes, lemons, oranges, and more in order to supply themselves with organic ingredients. This avoids the arrival of introduced species that come with sourcing from mainland Ecuador.

The following meals are included:

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Snacks
  • Drinks

The following drinks are included:

  • Water
  • Coffee
  • Tea

The following dietary requirement(s) are served and/or catered for:

  • Vegetarian
  • Vegan
  • Gluten Free
  • Seafood
If you have special dietary requirements it's a good idea to communicate it to the organiser when making a reservation

Things to do (optional)

Once you arrive on the islands, you will have plenty of opportunities to participate in other activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and sea kayaking. For those who enjoy horses, horseback riding can be arranged while staying at haciendas on the mainland, which also offers excellent hiking. It is really up to you how much or how little you want to participate in activities versus relaxing. Latin Trails offers diving extension trips. Divers must be experienced and must meet certain diving requirements before the trip.

  • Wetsuit rental - 15 USD per day (available on board)

What's included

  • All visits and excursions according to the itinerary
  • 4 nights accommodation
  • All meals during the cruise
  • Unlimited purified water, coffee, and tea
  • Roundtrip airport transfers
  • Snorkel gear (mask, tube, and fins)
  • Kayaks
  • Airport assistance in Galapagos
  • Transfers in Galapagos
  • Naturalist bilingual guide - level II or III
  • Fuel surcharge

What's not included

  • Airfare
  • Galapagos Ingala card
  • Tips
  • Local taxes
  • Galapagos National Park entrance fee
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals and services not mentioned above
  • Alcoholic drinks and soft drinks
  • Extras and personal expenses

How to get there

Recommended Airports

Arrival by airplane

Please book your flight to arrive at Seymour Airport (GPS). Transfer from and to the airport is included. Latin Trails will pick you up from the airport. The Seaman Journey cruise staff will be there to welcome you and transfer you to the catamaran. At the end of the itinerary, they will also ensure you are taken back to the airport for your departure. Upon arrival, you will go through Immigration first and then customs. First, you will be asked to present your passport and an arrival form (usually handed out on board your flight before landing).

Be sure your entrance papers are officially stamped showing the number of days you are allowed to stay in the country. You will be given a copy of the arrival form. Keep it in a safe place with your passport, as you will need it to leave the country. If it is lost, you will need to fill out a new one at the airline counter when you check in for your departing flight. Next, you will proceed to pick up your luggage. If you require assistance some porters can help you. The standard gratuity is 2 USD per bag. If you or your group has arranged a private transfer, look for the transfer agent just outside customs.

They will have a sign with your name or the name of your group on it. Usually, if you are arriving by plane, late at night, and do not feel comfortable being alone in a foreign country, they recommend a private transfer, which they can arrange for you. If you take a taxi to your hotel, they recommend that you make sure the taxi has a running meter. You can book taxis at one of the reservation windows outside of customs.

Most hotels in Quito and Guayaquil are located in the city. Be sure to either get a quote or negotiate the fare before getting in the vehicle. They recommend that you plan to leave Quito or Guayaquil no earlier than the day after you return to Quito from your cruise. This will give you at least one more night in Quito to ensure that you do not miss your international flight in case of flight delays.

Airport: Seymour Airport Airport transfer included: Seymour Airport No additional charges. You can request this in the next step.

Cancellation Policy

  • A reservation requires a deposit of 14% of the total price.
  • The deposit is non-refundable, if the booking is cancelled.
  • The rest of the payment should be paid 60 days before arrival.
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