Monday: Bartholomew – Chinese Hat
Embark on an extraordinary adventure to Bartholomew, a small island located 30 kilometers northwest of the Itabaca Channel. The trail at Bartholomew begins with a dry landing, adding excitement as sea lions gather around the purpose-built dock. Traverse dusty paths through volcanic ash, witnessing the iconic “pioneer Tiquilia plant” and greenish Chamaesyce. Continue to Chinese Hat for a close encounter with Galápagos penguins and the majestic presence of hawks.
Highlights:
- Wonderful volcanic landscapes
- Sea Lions
- Galapagos Penguins
- And more…
Tuesday: Seymour – Bachas
Explore the wonders of North Seymour, a rocky island on the north side of Santa Cruz. Marvel at impressive wildlife colonies, including large frigates and blue-footed boobies. Journey along the coastline, crossing expansive sandy stretches frequented by marine iguanas. Head to Playa Las Bachas, a beautiful coral beach, ideal for snorkeling, swimming, or simply enjoying its pristine white sands.
Highlights:
- Frigate birds
- Blue-footed boobies
- Flamingos
- And more…
Wednesday: Plazas – Santa Fe
Plunge into the vibrant wildlife of South Plaza, where steep cliffs host an array of astonishing bird species. Transition to Santa Fe, also known as Barrington Island, featuring a plateau covered with a forest of giant Opuntia cacti. Traverse a short trail, mindful of Croton bushes, and encounter the iconic and spectacular giant cacti—Opuntia—unique to Santa Fe, along with the island’s distinctive land iguana.
Highlights:
- Endemic land Iguanas
- Opuntia cactus trails
- Nazca boobies
- And more…
Thursday: Santa Fe – Plazas
Experience the geological marvel of Santa Fe, formed by uplifted underwater basaltic lava. A significant part of the island features faulted terrain covered in a forest of giant Opuntia cacti. As you walk through dense shrubbery, beware of Croton bushes. Encounter the lighter-colored Santa Fe land iguana, endemic to this unique island. Transition to South Plaza Island, home to diverse terrestrial life and an array of bird species, from fork-tailed seagulls to red-billed tropicbirds.
Highlights:
- Endemic land Iguanas
- Opuntia cactus trails
- Nazca boobies
- And more…
Friday: Seymour – Bachas
Delve into the rich biodiversity of North Seymour, a rocky island on the north side of Santa Cruz. Marvel at wildlife, including frigates and blue-footed boobies, as you navigate along the coast, crossing sandy paths dotted with marine iguanas. Conclude your day at Playa Las Bachas, an exquisite coral beach offering opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxation amidst its pristine white sands.
Highlights:
- Frigate birds
- Blue-footed boobies
- Flamingos
- And more…
Saturday: Bartholomew – Sullivan Bay
Embark on a journey to Bartholomew, a small Galápagos island situated 29 kilometers northwest of the Itabaca Channel. The summit trail, starting with a dry landing, unfolds as a dusty walk through volcanic ash. Witness the unique “pioneer Tiquilia plant” amidst the barren landscapes. Considered one of the best snorkeling sites in the central region of Galápagos, a dip around Pinnacle Rock yields encounters with various fish species, sea turtles, sea lions, and occasionally Galápagos penguins.
Highlights:
- Galapagos penguins
- Hiking on lava trails
- Marine turtles
- And more…
Sunday: Seymour – Plazas
Explore the remarkable wildlife colonies of North Seymour, a small landmass on the north side of Santa Cruz. Encounter blue-footed boobies, frigates, and marine iguanas as you traverse a vast sandy expanse along the coastline. Conclude your adventure at South Plaza Island, a haven for diverse terrestrial life and captivating bird species, from fork-tailed seagulls to red-billed tropicbirds. The island has evolved over countless years, showcasing resident wildlife and a progressively thriving plant life.
Highlights:
- Frigate birds
- Blue-footed boobies
- Marine Iguanas
- And more…