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Galápagos Islands Expedition Cruise – Nine of the Best Isles

12 Days | Quito stay + 9-island Galápagos expedition aboard MS Santa Cruz II

6 January 2026
(other dates available 2026–27)

12 days

£10,445

Expedition

Why I Chose This for You

Because some journeys are more than travel — they’re transformations. The Galápagos feels like stepping into a nature documentary where the wildlife has no fear of you. Every encounter is intimate and extraordinary, whether it’s watching penguins dart through the water beside your snorkel or hearing the ancient shuffle of a giant tortoise.

For solo travellers, it’s the perfect way to experience one of Earth’s most unique corners: safe, guided, and filled with like-minded companions who share your sense of wonder. You’ll come home not just with photos, but with a renewed appreciation for the planet and your place in it.

About this Trip

Step into another world — a living museum of evolution where giant tortoises roam, marine iguanas sunbathe on lava rocks, and blue-footed boobies dance along the shore.


This expedition cruise through nine Galápagos islands begins in Quito, Ecuador’s charming capital, before you board the MS Santa Cruz II for a voyage that will change the way you see our planet. Every day brings new discoveries: flamingos at Dragon Hill, penguins on Bartolomé, sea turtles gliding past your snorkel, and seabirds soaring above volcanic cliffs.


With a team of naturalist guides, Zodiac landings, kayaking, glass-bottom boat rides, and daily lectures, you’ll experience the islands as Darwin once did — with awe and wonder.

Itinerary Highlights

  • Visit nine islands: Baltra, Santa Cruz, Isabela, Fernandina, Floreana, Santiago, Rábida, Bartolomé, and Genovesa

  • Walk among giant tortoises and learn from the Charles Darwin Research Station

  • Snorkel with sea turtles, penguins and reef fish in crystal-clear waters

  • See flamingos, fur seals, iguanas, blue-footed boobies and flightless cormorants up close

  • Climb to Bartolomé’s summit for views over the archipelago’s iconic Pinnacle Rock

  • Discover Quito’s Old Town and straddle the Equator at the ‘Middle of the World’

Whats Included

  • Two hotel nights in Quito (B&B, with city tour & lunch included)

  • Return flights between Quito and the Galápagos

  • 7-night Galápagos expedition cruise aboard MS Santa Cruz II

  • Daily breakfast, lunch & dinner on board (wine, beer & spirits included with meals)

  • Zodiacs, kayaks, snorkelling gear, glass-bottom boat excursions

  • All landing activities with expert naturalist guides

  • Onboard lectures, science centre access & citizen science programmes

  • Galápagos National Park admission & transit card

  • Gratuities included

  • Wi-Fi onboard (note: not suitable for streaming)

  • Transfers in Quito & Baltra

Helpful Hints

  • Currency: US Dollar (official in Ecuador)

  • Weather: January is warm (25–30°C) with occasional showers — perfect for wildlife and snorkelling

  • Fitness Level: Moderate – includes walks on uneven ground, wet landings from Zodiacs, and optional hikes/swims

  • Packing Tip: Bring water shoes or reef sandals for wet landings, plus a good hat and reef-safe sunscreen

  • Group Style: Small group, expedition-style with local naturalist team

  • Best For: Wildlife lovers, bucket-list dreamers, and those ready for an expedition that blends comfort and adventure

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