Archipel I 4 Days - Itinerary A4

The Interpretation Centre, just outside the provincial capital city of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, gives a perfect explanation of this unique archipelago. Its attractive exhibition is quite complete and helps you to get a clear overview and learn what makes this archipelago so unique. Information panels (in English and Spanish), pictures, documents, maquettes, and true-to-life dioramas tell various background and conservation stories about the islands in a different way. A short, though often hot, uphill trail with steps, leads from the Interpretation Centre to the summit of Frigatebird Hill. Four panoramic viewpoints show Puerto Baquerizo Moreno from above, as well as the bays on both sides of the headland. On clear days even the distant, offshore sculpture of Kicker Rock can be seen! These wooded hilltops are one of the rare places where some magnificent and great frigatebirds form a mixed breeding colony. A viewpoint with another Charles Darwin statue is a reminder that the HMS Beagle anchored in the exotic bay below

Full itinerary map here: http://bit.ly/archipell-i-a4

Early in the morning you will visit Santa Fe Island, where you can see some endemic species such as the Galapagos hawk, Galapagos snake, Galapagos mockingbird, and land iguanas. You will also see one of the many sea lion colonies, and have the possibility to snorkel. After lunch you will visit South Plazas, located to the east of Santa Cruz Island, forming a pair of islands known as “Islas Plazas”, where you will see outstanding species such as land and marine iguanas and hybrid iguanas too. After this activity return to the yacht and dinner.

After breakfast, head to North Seymour Island, where you can see blue footed boobies, magnificent frigate birds, marine iguanas and sea lions. After lunch disembark at Chinese Hat (Sombrero Chino), to observe lava tunnels, lava cactus and you also have the option to swim and snorkel if you wish. Return to the yacht and dinner.

In the morning, you will take a bus ride to the highlands of Santa Cruz Island to the National Park boundary, where you will see the Twin Craters and then you will visit El Chato Reserve to observe the giant tortoise of Santa Cruz Island in its natural habitat. Then you will be transfered to Baltra airport.