The Galápagos: Wildlife of Santa Cruz & Isabela Islands

The journey is part of the adventure today as you make your way 1000 km from Ecuador's mainland to the Galapagos Islands. Home to creatures found nowhere else in the world, the surrounding marine reserve is a showcase of evolution and a true testament to the melting pot of species found in the islands, both on shore and in the water. Start early for a flight to Baltra from Quito. Travel ten minutes by public bus to the ferry port across Canal Itabaca then transfer by private vehicle to Puerto Ayora. Grab some lunch before taking a speed boat to Isabela, keeping an eye out for whales and dolphins along the way. Check into your OMG Stay on the island and spend some free time exploring before an included dinner of delicious local specialties with the group.

Today you will be able to explore more of Isabela Island on your terms with the choice of two activities. Stick to the land and hike the Sierra Negra Volcano, one of five active ones located on Isabela Island, and rising to an altitude of 1124m. If you are looking for more snorkelling, take to the water and head to Las Tintoreras, an islet to the south of Puerto Villamil that forms part of the national park of the Galapagos Islands. The area is known for the reef sharks that can be seen swimming with fish and other marine life when the tide is low. This morning, choose between a volcano hike or snorkelling excursion. Both options include lunch at a local restaurant on the island. The remainder of the day is free for optional activities offered on Isabela Island, or for lounging by the pool at the hotel property.

Travel to the highlands to a private ranch to see giant tortoises in their natural habitat and visit some lava tunnels. After lunch, stop by a working sugar cane mill where you can learn about the different distilling processes and techniques before heading to Garrapatero beach for some kayaking, tidal pool gazing or wildlife spotting in the lagoon. This evening, it's time to say good-bye to the mighty Galapagos and there's no better way than with an optional dinner all together as a group. Spend another day traversing Santa Cruz Island from the highlands to the coast, watching the landscape undulate under waves and hills alike. You'll visit a local sugar cane mill, then look for wildlife like sea lions, flamingos and blue footed boobies from a kayak along the beach. Arrive back to town just in time for an optional group dinner.

While it's time to bid the islands farewell, there's no doubt your days here will be remembered. Incredible up-close encounters with animals and immersion into ecosystems that remain largely unchanged in a pristine slice of paradise will remain etched in your memory forever. Spend the day travelling back to Quito. Enjoy a private transfer to Canal Itabaca, board the ferry across, then take a short public bus ride to the Baltra Airport. Fly to Quito and check in to the hotel before a farewell dinner with the group in the historical centre of the city.

Today your adventure comes to an end, and you can depart at any time.