Galápagos — Central Islands aboard the Xavier III
7 days
from Quito to Quito
From
$ 3399
Duration7 days
Encounter the island chain that has enchanted explorers since Darwin first weighed anchor off its shores. Spend four nights exploring the incredible wildlife of the Galápagos archipelago in the company of an expert Naturalist Guide. In the evenings, return to the Xavier to reflect on the day’s adventures. Retire to air-conditioned cabins with exclusive lower berths and private bathrooms. As one of the region’s largest operators, we understand the importance of controlling the onboard experience – that’s why you won’t be sold onto someone else's ship.
This tour is operated by
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Duration: 7 daysService level: Standard
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Starts in: QuitoPhysical Grading: Average
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Ends in: QuitoAges: 12+
Tour Gallery
Itinerary
Day 1: Quito
Start place: Quito
A G Adventures representative will greet everyone at the hotel and brief the group on the various aspects of the tour.
Arrive at any time.
If you are not able to attend the welcome meeting, a representative will leave all important information at the hotel’s reception indicating what time to be ready on day 2 of the trip. If there is any confusion on arrival, please do not hesitate to call the contact number listed in this dossier.
We recommend booking pre nights in Quito for time to take advantage of the optional activities listed below.
Opt to pre-book the "Quito City Tour & Equator Line" activity on the checkout page ahead of time to include this optional on your tour.
We recommend booking pre nights in Quito for time to take advantage of the optional activities listed below.
Opt to pre-book the "Quito City Tour & Equator Line" activity on the checkout page ahead of time to include this optional on your tour.
End place: Quito
Day 2: Quito/Puerto Ayora
Start place: Quito
Flights from Quito to Baltra depart between 6:40am and 9:40am depending on the day of the week. These will arrive into the Galápagos between 9:30am and 12:30pm with a short refuelling stop in Guayaquil (you will not disembark the plane). You will generally arrive at the boat in time for lunch before the afternoon activity.
Transfer early to the airport for the flight to the Galápagos Islands. Upon arrival meet the Naturalist Guide, who will assist with the transfer to the Xavier, located in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island. Visit the Santa Cruz highlands and get up close and personal with giant tortoises.
The National Park charges a visitor fee of USD100, payable on arrival, which funds park maintenance and supervision in the Galápagos as well as ecological study, conservation, and infrastructure development in Ecuador's other National Parks. Entry fees and the funds they generate for the National Park System are among measures taken by the Ecuadorian government to protect its natural heritage.
End place: Puerto Ayora
Meals: B, L, D
Day 3: Chinese Hat/Black Turtle Cove
Spot Galápagos penguins and explore marine life that is fantastic for snorkelling. There is also a large sea lion colony at Chinese Hat as well as many marine iguanas that can be seen on the guided walk. Hike among the volcanic scenery, with good views to the cone of the island's volcano.
In the afternoon, take an excursion by "panga" to Black Turtle Cove to witness the extensive mangrove system and interesting waterway canals. Sea turtles and different species of rays can often be seen in this cove, offering a peaceful and fascinating glimpse into the diversity of the area.
In the afternoon, take an excursion by "panga" to Black Turtle Cove to witness the extensive mangrove system and interesting waterway canals. Sea turtles and different species of rays can often be seen in this cove, offering a peaceful and fascinating glimpse into the diversity of the area.
Visit Chinese Hat for snorkelling opportunities and to observe the birds and sea lions before taking an excursion to Black Turtle Cove to see the marine life.
Meals: B, L, D
Day 4: Cerro Dragón/Islas Daphne
Visit Cerro Dragón on the west coast of Santa Cruz Island to see land iguanas and a salt water lagoon frequented by flamingos and other species of birds. Continue to Daphne Island in the afternoon to spot birds and wildlife.
End place: Islas Daphne
Meals: B, L, D
Day 5: Islas Plaza/Santa Fé Island
Start place: Islas Plaza
Land at South Plaza in the morning for wildlife spotting opportunities. Afternoon visit to Santa Fé Island for guided walks to observe the wildlife and plentiful marine iguanas. Opportunities for swimming and snorkelling with the sea lions.
End place: Isla Santa Fe
Meals: B, L, D
Day 6: San Cristóbal Island/Quito
Start place: San Cristobal Island
Transfer to the group hotel upon arrival, and enjoy one last night on the town.
Visit the Interpretation Centre on San Cristóbal Island before flying back to Quito.
Flights from San Cristóbal to Quito depart between 11:30am and 1:30pm depending on the day of the week. These will arrive into Quito between 4:00pm and 5:40pm with a refuelling stop in Guayaquil (you will not disembark the plane). You will arrive back at the hotel in the early evening in time for dinner.
End place: Quito
Meals: B
Day 7: Quito
Start place: Quito
Depart at any time.
End place: Quito
Meals: B
Inclusions
Included
- Cruise the Galápagos Islands aboard the Xavier (4 nts)
- Certified Galápagos National Park Service Guide
- Highlands and wild tortoise excursion (Santa Cruz Island)
- Snorkelling at Chinese Hat
- Land iguana excursions on Santa Fé and South Plaza Islands
- Visit to a wildlife interpretation centre (San Cristóbal Island)
- All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
- Internal flights
- Onboard snorkelling equipment and wetsuits
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Transport
Motorized yacht (Xavier), Plane, Private vehicle, Panga -
Accommodation
Hotels (2 nts), Aboard the Xavier in twin-share cabins (4 nts)