Galapagos aboard National Geographic Endeavour

Located 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the Galápagos Islands provide a natural habitat for some of the world’s most interesting and unusual animals. Only in Galápagos will you come face to face with wildlife that has never developed a fear of people.

With an expedition to the Land of Darwin, you have the opportunity to study blue-footed boobies performing a courtship “dance”, snorkel with playful sea lions, watch a male frigatebird ballooning his crimson chest pouch to attract a female, kneel beside marine iguanas, and marvel at Galápagos penguins.

Our Galápagos vacation features nimble Zodiacs and kayaks that take us to the volcanic shores and pristine beaches of Galápagos, and an undersea program utilizes underwater video, glass-bottom boat and hydrophone that bring seldom seen or heard worlds to life. Every expedition in Galápagos is led by a team of five Naturalists, (including an Underwater Specialist), a videographer, and Expedition Leader, providing a multitude of resources for a rich and unmatched understanding of all that you’ll see.

Itinerary:

DAY 1 — U.S./Guayaquil, Ecuador
Depart U.S. and arrive Guayaquil by late evening. We’ve found that Miami is a convenient gateway for most, but other air alternatives are available. If you choose to take the non-stop American Airlines group flight from Miami, we depart in the early evening with a flying time of approximately 4 hours. Upon arrival in Guayaquil, it’s a short drive to the Hotel Hilton Colón.

DAY 2 — Guayaquil/Galápagos/Baltra/Embark Ship
This morning fly to the Galápagos. Flying time is approximately 1½ hours; upon arrival immediately board the National Geographic Polaris. (B, L, D)

DAY 3 — Floreana
Champion Islet, just off the eastern shore of Floreana, is a fabulous snorkel site and home to a large colony of sea lions. There is nothing more delightful than an hour spent in the clear waters with these creatures! On Floreana, we may find flamingos, pintail ducks and various shorebirds. Hike to a lovely beach. (B, L, D)

DAY 4 — Isabela and Fernandina
Anchor off the picturesque port of Puerto Villamil. Walk the streets of this small town, visit the nearby saltwater lagoons, home to flamingos or simply stroll along a beautiful beach. Visit the tortoise breeding center which is jointly administered by the Galápagos National Park and the Charles Darwin Research Station. We’ll also explore Isabela’s caves and shoreline and search the waters for dolphins, whales, sea turtles and the elusive ocean sunfish — the mola-mola. We’ll also investigate Punta Espinoza on Fernandina Island — the youngest island in Galápagos. It’s marine iguana heaven, with Isabela’s volcanoes as a dramatic backdrop. (B, L, D)

DAY 5-6 — Santa Cruz
The epicenter of Galápagos administration as well as the Charles Darwin Research Center where we’ll learn about their vital preservation work. We’ll head up into the highlands to roam the moss-draped lush landscape where wild giant tortoises often forage. (B, L, D)

DAY 6-7 — Bartolome and Santiago
Bartolome is an enchanting landscape where lava, mangroves and golden sand converge. Great walks, views and a chance to snorkel with penguins — a tropical oxymoron. Santiago provides us a chance to see the Galápagos fur seal, along with the opportunity to enjoy the best “tide pooling.” (B, L, D)

DAY 8 — Espanola
See blue-footed boobies, sea lions galore, Española marine iguanas which develop particularly vivid coloration, and waved albatross exclusive to this island. Snorkel and stroll the island’s lovely beaches. (B, L, D)

DAY 9 — Baltra/Disembark Ship/Guayaquil
This morning disembark the ship and fly to Guayaquil. The late afternoon and evening free to explore the city and prepare for your journey home. If you would like to visit Quito, please inquire about our optional Quito extensions. (B)

DAY 10 — Guayaquil/Home
This morning fly home. (B)

What's Included:

• All accommodations aboard ships or in hotels per itinerary or similar
• All meals and nonalcoholic beverages aboard ship, meals on land as indicated
• Air transportation where indicated as included
• Shore excursions
• Sightseeing and entrance fees
• Special access permits
• Transfers to and from group flights
• Use of snorkeling equipment and wet suits
• Use of kayaks (where available)
• Tips (except to Egyptologists and ship’s crew), taxes and service charges
• Services of a ship physician on most voyages
• Services of our expedition staff.

What's Not Included:

• Air transportation (except where shown as included)
• Extensions, passport, visa, immigration fees
• Scuba diving (where available)
• meals not indicated
• baggage/accident/travel protection plan
• Items of a personal nature, such as alcoholic beverages, e-mail, laundry
• Gratuities to Egyptologists and ship’s crew at your discretion

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All rates are per person, double occupancy. Port charges, Government taxes and fees are additional. Limited availability and based on minimum fares for select departure dates. Other dates may be higher. These rates are for new, individual bookings only. Not responsible for last minute changes of price or itinerary by cruise line, or any errors or omissions in the content of this site. Some restrictions and cancellation penalties may apply.