Independent Galapagos cruise aboard the Galápagos Legend

Independent Galapagos cruise aboard the Galápagos Legend

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Independent Galapagos cruise aboard the Galápagos Legend

7 Days Starting in Quito, Ecuador and ending in Guayaquil, Ecuador

Visiting: Quito, North Seymour Island, Bartolomé Island, San Cristóbal Island, San Cristobal, Guayaquil

Tour operator:

Globus

Tour code:

ISK1-2025

Group Type:

Independent

Guide Type:

Self Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Cruise, Sailing

Interests:

Cultural, Wildlife Tours

Activities:

Snorkeling, Walking

This tour is no longer available

Tour Overview

How deep is your love of adventure? Is it deep enough to follow the course of Charles Darwin to discover your own love affair with the wildlife paradise of the Galápagos Islands? If so, this Globus Independent tour in South America is pointing you in the right direction. Begin by exploring the historic heart of Quito and depart for parts unknown where blue-footed boobies, giant tortoises, and diving iguanas of the Galápagos give new meaning to mind-blowing discoveries. Cruise in luxury on the Galápagos Legend and explore the archipelago in the company of a Naturalist guide. Sail upon pristine waters to discover the perfectly evolved creatures who thrive on this volcanic archipelago. Stroll the sand where sea lions bask and albatross brace against the updrafts above the cliffs. Sail, snorkel, and simply stay in a state of astonishment through the sanctuaries of spectacular species on Bartolomé, Santiago, North Seymour, and San Cristobal Islands. Visit the Giant Tortoise Reserve where conservationists work to protect the gentle giants for which the islands are named. You’ll also find the I-time you deserve to fall in love with adventure again!

Highlights

  • Explore the rich legacy of Quito with a private city tour, including Independence Square, San Francisco Plaza Church, and the Basilica.

  • Walk amidst large nesting colonies of blue-footed boobies, frigate birds, and sea lions on North Seymour Island.

  • Hike to the summit of Bartolomé Island for impressive views and encounter marine iguanas, lava lizards, and blue-footed boobies.

  • Snorkel in the clear waters of Bartolomé Island, home to sea turtles, white-tipped reef sharks, and Galápagos penguins.

  • Walk on young Pahoehoe lava flows at Sullivan Bay on Santiago Island and snorkel from the white sand beach.

  • See the three booby species and two species of frigate birds on San Cristobal Island, and snorkel in the island waters.

  • Visit the Giant Tortoise Reserve on San Cristobal and learn about conservation and breeding programs.

Places You'll See

Hilton Colon Quito (Sat)

Hilton Colon Guayaquil - Sat

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Arrive In Quito,Ecuador

Location: Quito

Accommodation Name: Hilton Colon Quito

Welcome to Quito, where your hotel is available for mid-afternoon check-in.

Day 2: Quito

Location: Quito

Accommodation Name: Hilton Colon Quito

Meals Included: Breakfast

QUITO • Your included private city tour showcases the rich legacy left by the Incas and the Spaniards. See Independence Square, dominated by its formidable cathedral, San Francisco Plaza Church, and the Basilica with its marvelous stained-glass windows. (B)

Day 3: Quito,Baltra (Embarkation),Galápagos Cruising: North Seymour Island

Location: North Seymour Island

Accommodation Name: Galápagos Legend

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

QUITO–BALTRA (EMBARKATION)–GALÁPAGOS CRUISING: NORTH SEYMOUR ISLAND • Fly to Baltra and transfer with your expert Naturalist to the Galápagos Legend for your 3-night cruise. • Sail to North Seymour, a landmass formed by a series of underwater volcanic eruptions, which deposited layers of lava on the ocean floor. Take a walk amidst large nesting colonies of blue-footed boobies, magnificent and great frigate birds, and swallow-tailed gulls for an in-depth encounter with sea bird breeding cycles. You will also encounter sea lions, land iguanas and, on a lucky day, you might even come across the endemic Galápagos snake.(B,L,D)

Day 4: Cruising: Bartolomé Island & Santiago Island

Location: Bartolomé Island

Accommodation Name: Galápagos Legend

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

CRUISING: BARTOLOMÉ ISLAND & SANTIAGO ISLAND • Wake up at Bartolomé Island to discover a fascinating moonscape formed by volcanic parasitic cones. Hike to the summit for impressive views of the surrounding islands and Pinnacle Rock. You will also encounter marine iguanas, lava lizards, and blue-footed boobies. Bartolomé offers some of the best spots to snorkel, thanks to clear waters and abundant sea life, including sea turtles, white-tipped reef sharks, and maybe even Galápagos penguins. • This afternoon, sail to Sullivan Bay on Santiago Island and take a walk on young Pahoehoe lava flows formed during the last quarter of the 19th Century. See the reddish-yellow tuff-cones with various flora growing from the fissures. Walking on the solidified lava gives the impression of walking on another planet. After your guided walk, spend time snorkeling from the white sand beach where you may see penguins, sea lions, sharks, and rays. (B,L,D)

Day 5: Cruising: San Cristobal Island

Location: San Cristóbal Island

Accommodation Name: Galápagos Legend

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

CRUISING: SAN CRISTOBAL ISLAND • Arrive at Pitt Islet on San Cristobal and walk to the top of a volcanic tuff to be rewarded with several magnificent viewpoints. This is one of the few sites where the Galápagos’ three booby species (blue-footed, red-footed, and Nazca) can be seen together. You will also find the two species of frigate birds and a sea lion colony. The island waters are excellent for dinghy rides to see a range of seabirds—and a great spot to snorkel! • At Cerro Brujo, visit a lagoon where migratory bird species can be seen: black-necked stilts, ruddy turnstones, whimbrels, other sandpiper species, and white-cheeked pintails. Cerro Brujo offers beautiful views of Kicker Rock, the southern part of San Cristobal, and the adjacent coast. Your visit includes time to swim with the sea lions and other marine life. (B,L,D)

Day 6: Cruising: San Cristobal (Disembarkation),Guayaquil

Location: San Cristobal

Accommodation Name: Hilton Colon Guayaquil

Meals Included: Breakfast

CRUISING: SAN CRISTOBAL (DISEMBARKATION)–GUAYAQUIL • After breakfast, disembark in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno and visit the Giant Tortoise Reserve on San Cristobal. Learn about the national park’s conservation and breeding programs to protect the endangered tortoise species. • Also, visit the port village for a last chance at souvenirs before bidding farewell to the enchanted Galápagos Islands. • Transfer to San Cristobal Airport and fly to Guayaquil, where the remainder of the day is at leisure. (B)

Day 7: Guayaquil

Location: Guayaquil

Accommodation Name: Hilton Colon Guayaquil

Meals Included: Breakfast

GUAYAQUIL Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation in Hilton Colon Quito and Hilton Colon Guayaquil.

  • Meals

    Buffet breakfast daily; 3 lunches; 3 three-course dinners.

  • Private City Tour

    Included private city tour in Quito showcasing the rich legacy left by the Incas and the Spaniards.

  • Galápagos Cruise

    3-night cruise aboard the Galápagos Legend.

  • Naturalist Guide

    Expert Naturalist guide during the Galápagos cruise.

  • Excursions

    Various excursions including visits to North Seymour Island, Bartolomé Island, Santiago Island, and San Cristobal Island.

  • Snorkeling

    Opportunities for snorkeling at Bartolomé Island and Sullivan Bay on Santiago Island.

  • Giant Tortoise Reserve Visit

    Visit to the Giant Tortoise Reserve on San Cristobal.

What's Not Included

  • Wet Landings

    Guests will need to be able to jump in the water, out of the boats/zodiacs and walk a couple of meters to the beaches.

  • Terrain

    Terrain in the Galápagos is rocky and uneven.

  • Itinerary Changes

    Galápagos Islands itineraries are fully subject to change.

Meals

Buffet breakfast daily; 3 lunches; 3 three-course dinners

Notes

Transportation is as outlined in the day-by-day itinerary and include private airport transfers to/from intra-vacation flights. Internal flights to/from the Galápagos are included. Local guide service is provied in Quito. A Naturalist in the Galápagos is also provided.

In the Galápagos, there will be “wet landings” meaning guests will need to be able to jump in the water, out of the boats/zodiacs and walk a couple of meters to the beaches. Terrain is rocky and uneven. Itinerary in the Galápagos are subject to change. Maximum elevation is 9,350 ft.

UNESCO Sites

City of Quito|Galapagos Islands

Accommodation

Quito: Hilton Colon Quito (SAT) Guayaquil: Hilton Colon Guayaquil - SAT

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of wildlife can I expect to see during the Galápagos cruise?

    During the Galápagos cruise, you can expect to see a variety of wildlife including blue-footed boobies, magnificent and great frigate birds, swallow-tailed gulls, sea lions, land iguanas, Galápagos snakes, marine iguanas, lava lizards, Galápagos penguins, white-tipped reef sharks, and sea turtles. You may also encounter the three booby species (blue-footed, red-footed, and Nazca), two species of frigate birds, and a sea lion colony.

  • What activities are included on Bartolomé Island?

    On Bartolomé Island, you will hike to the summit for impressive views of the surrounding islands and Pinnacle Rock. You will also encounter marine iguanas, lava lizards, and blue-footed boobies. Bartolomé offers some of the best spots to snorkel, thanks to clear waters and abundant sea life, including sea turtles, white-tipped reef sharks, and possibly Galápagos penguins.

  • What can I expect during the visit to San Cristobal Island?

    On San Cristobal Island, you will visit Pitt Islet and walk to the top of a volcanic tuff for magnificent viewpoints. This is one of the few sites where you can see the three booby species together. You will also find two species of frigate birds and a sea lion colony. The island waters are excellent for dinghy rides and snorkeling. At Cerro Brujo, you will visit a lagoon to see migratory bird species and have the opportunity to swim with sea lions and other marine life.

  • What is the significance of the Giant Tortoise Reserve on San Cristobal?

    The Giant Tortoise Reserve on San Cristobal is significant for its conservation and breeding programs aimed at protecting the endangered tortoise species. During your visit, you will learn about these efforts and have the opportunity to see the giant tortoises up close.

  • Are there any special requirements for landings in the Galápagos?

    Yes, in the Galápagos, there will be 'wet landings,' meaning guests will need to be able to jump in the water, out of the boats/zodiacs, and walk a couple of meters to the beaches. The terrain is rocky and uneven.

  • What are some of the highlights of the private city tour in Quito?

    The private city tour in Quito includes visits to Independence Square, dominated by its formidable cathedral, San Francisco Plaza Church, and the Basilica with its marvelous stained-glass windows. The tour showcases the rich legacy left by the Incas and the Spaniards.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    For over 90 years.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    The Globus Lighthouse Project - an illuminating initiative where we can all come together to tread lightly and give generously for the globe's greater good. Globus, along with sister companies Avalon Waterways and Cosmos, invite our travellers and partners to help us in supporting causes that provide for a more sustainable planet and a brighter tomorrow.

Reviews of this operator

Lisset  

Great Value for your Money

19-Dec-2022

This is my second time travelling with Globus, would have been my third if not for COVID. The way they plan everything is super organized, the tour managers are very caring and knowledgeable. We always enjoy all the site visits planned for each trip. They start by picking you up from the airport and from then on everything is taken care of up until the last day of your trip, even dropping you off at the airport not matter the time of day or night. The hotels at every city are always great and centrally located so you can walk around during your free time or plan your own visits to different sites.

Joan Cupp (Google Reviewer)  

My go-to escorted travel Co My...

01-Mar-2024

My go-to escorted travel Co My 4th trip with Globus and the did not disappoint. The sales deals they offer make it affordable for me to travel. All of the guides are well versed in the history of the area you travel in.

David R  

What a wonderful trip, thanks Globus

10-Jan-2023

Globus is my favorite travel agency. I tried others, but always come back to Globus. It is a 100% stress free one-stop shop. Easy booking with flight, hotel, transportation and travel insurance all in one place. Great customer service at reasonable prices. Lots of information prepared for the trip to handle travel logistics. I planned and booked my trip within 24 hours. Highly recommended to everyon

Alexander Wright  

Great guide, accommodations, and tours.

28-Dec-2022

We had a fantastic guide, with a great mix of free time and guided tours.

CTRTeach 11  

Globus exceeded my expectations!

20-Dec-2022

This is my first Globus tour. I was pleasantly surprised with the depth and quality. The hotels were top notch, and the cruise on the Nile exceeded my expectations. The cabins were roomy and comfortable, and the food was very good.

Nancy Arias  

The experience was amazing!!

30-Dec-2022

The trip was amazing. Our tour guide was so kind and very knowledgeable. I needed to attend a very important meeting via zoom. She was very understanding and accommodating to my needs and made it happen. I was very grateful! Our driver was by far the best driver I’ve ever encountered! I was beyond impressed with our guide, driver and trip!! I will definitely be back for another adventure!!

Irish Beth Maddock (Google Reviewer)  

Did the Globus Highlands and...

30-Sep-2023

Did the Globus Highlands and Islands Scottish Tour with Ian and Allister. What a trip!! With his sharp wit, immense knowledge and fun humour, Ian absolutely brought Scotland to vivid life with his many tales, informative quips and total, utter passion for history. Was spellbound. Am so VERY thankful I had the opportunity to be on Ian's last bus tour before retiring with Globus. In addition, to being so hard working and helpful, with Allister our driver, I cannot tell you how safe and secure I felt in his capable driving hands. He had some very awkward traffic and interesting roads to navigate with our large bus, (especially on the islands and up north) but he handled it all expertly and without a hitch. So much so, I was able to relax and enjoy the journey. All in all, with our tour, you could tell both these kind men cared very much for those of us who needed the extra help and advice. Made my bucket list trip to Scotland so memorable and wonderful. Thank you Ian and Allister! Globus is truly fortunate to have you both.

Patty Walker (Google Reviewer)  

Specifically, Cosmos Tour of Ireland...

11-Aug-2024

Specifically, Cosmos Tour of Ireland and Scotland. August 2024. Let me begin with the positive , the Tour guide was knowledgable, personable and educated! He also was extremely professional and took a genuine interest in providing the highest quality of service to the client. The bus was clean and comfortable and well maintained. The driver was highly experienced and provided excellent transportation. The excursions were acceptable and enjoyable. The Variety of age groups on the trip made for wonderful traveling companions. But unfortunately, that is where the positive ends. The Leonardo hotels that are part of the chain and experience for this specific tour are below quality. We spent a night in a room with a leak in the ceiling. That was known before we checked in and continued to leak while we were there. Another Leonardo hotel, we could not get out of our room. Due to the carpet being ripped up and blocking the door. Most of these hotels I would have walked away from, had I been on my own individual trip. The customer service is missing, customer safety is also missing in these hotels. There is lack of concern to assist customers to their rooms even when it is there responsibility to change the room, there isn't assistance offered. Never have I experienced where you had to absolutely be your own advocate. Because there is no customer concern or care. Quality of food provided is also below standards. It is frowned upon if you request something and often denied. We even had a situation where another individual was placed in the same room we were in and it was considered a "oh well too bad for you." Again, we had to transport our own luggage and bags to a new room. Only after we were our own advocates. We said this stranger and ourselves are not going to stay in the same room. Finally, we received a good room, a room that would be found acceptable in every day normal travel, and we had to change again. Because there was a missing part in a Radiator and this was known to the hotel but yet they still booked us into a room. The radiator would not turn off and the room was steaming hot. So once again, we had to transfer all of our luggage and personal items and trudged down stairwell and elevators to once again change rooms. This is so sad for a bucket list, once in a lifetime, save your money and go on your anniversary trip. The rooms are old and out, dated with stains and tears in carpets and materials. Some of the missing items are a safety concern. Buyer beware! The communication for traveling in other countries is not to the level of customer service and satisfaction that we are used to, we did not expect this level of unacceptable accommodations, much like staying in a hostile. It is the Globus/Cosmos Travel companies responsibility to make sure their accommodations for housing is up to the level of expectations of their customers. The accommodations provided are a reflection of Globus/Cosmos business model and integrity in the global travel industry. This is not everything we experienced, but just a few examples. At this time, their brand appears to be old, outdated, without concern or care for the safety of their clients or their health and welfare as applied to accomodations.Customer service, is their lost art. Choose carefully for travel service. And I would not recommend Globus or Cosmos.

Suneetha Raja (Google Reviewer)  

I have done Newfoundland &...

06-Jul-2024

I have done Newfoundland & Labrador with Iceberg Festival tour with Globus in June 2024. It was absolute rubbish for the price I paid towards the tour. Terrible hotels, horrible meals, barely any sightseeing that is worth while the visit, most importantly, the Iceberg festival never happened. Globus sold this specific tour departure date as the only way to attend this supposed Iceberg Festival. I felt cheated after paying 3527£ for a 13 day tour considering the only reason I picked this departure date was because I wanted to attend this Iceberg festival. I could have used my time and money in a better way doing a different tour with another company. A Canadian company who did the exact same tour is doing it for £2400. I have been travelling with Globus and Cosmos tours since 2008. However, this company tours have been terrible after the covid shutdowns. They are charging more than the premium companies and not providing the equivalent service on par with the prices. Safe to say that I won't be recommending Globus and Cosmos tours to anyone. Try other tour companies that are on the market.

Lynda Bailey (Google Reviewer)  

I really enjoyed my Cosmos...

11-Jun-2024

I really enjoyed my Cosmos tour to Italy last September. However I was totally disappointed by two major things which completely changed the atmosphere of the holiday for me. One was the 'last minute' rearrangement of one of our hotels which then put us well outside of Florence on a trading estate for two nights instead of walking distance from the city walls. That completely blocked any plans or ideas of enjoying Florence in the evening. My biggest disappointment was the terrible travel arrangements and associated advice about travelling through Heathrow Cosmos put in place for me and for which they refused to be accountable despite the fact that they had made the ticket booking on my behalf and I had asked them for appropriate check in advice at all key points before I travelled. As a result I was put on standby when I should never have been (even the BA departure staff were shocked at this) and separated from my luggage which travelled on a later flight. I spent over 6 hrs of my first day in Rome in the airport waiting for my luggage and subsequent transfer to my hotel, without any assistance from Cosmos or BA airside staff. When I complained after my holiday, Cosmos would not take any responsibility at all for the fact that I lost the first day of my holiday and approx. 50% of the time I was due to spend in Rome, preferring to blame BA who in turn were uncontactable about my complaint. Very poor customer service indeed.

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  • Low Deposit

    Globus requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of globus charges.

    Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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