Itinerary C: Naturalist Cruise (Santa Cruz - San Cristobal)
Galaxy Orion · Galápagos · 4 nights
About this route
This five-day naturalist voyage navigates the central and eastern reaches of the Galapagos, offering an intimate look at the archipelago's evolutionary wonders. Travelers will explore iconic volcanic sites like Sullivan Bay and Bartolome, alongside the wildlife-rich shores of Santa Cruz and Santa Fe. The expedition culminates in the rugged landscapes of San Cristobal, providing a comprehensive overview of the islands' unique flora and fauna.
Regions on this route
Highlights
Isla Bartolomé
Home to the most photographed site in the Galapagos, this island features a dramatic lunar landscape and a small colony of Galapagos penguins.
- Pinnacle Rock
- Galapagos penguins
- Volcanic cones
San Cristobal
This island features diverse environments ranging from the high-altitude verdant forests of the highlands to the dramatic cliffs of Pitt Point. It is a critical habitat for multiple booby species and giant tortoises.
- Giant tortoises
- Punta Pitt birdlife
- Lava tunnels
Santa Fe Island
Characterized by a picturesque turquoise bay, this island is home to an endemic species of land iguana and a forest of massive prickly pear cacti. The sheltered waters are ideal for panga rides and snorkeling with sea lions.
- Endemic land iguanas
- Cactus forests
- Sea lion colonies
Sullivan Bay
A geological masterpiece showcasing the volcanic origins of the archipelago through sprawling, rope-like Pahoehoe lava flows. The site offers a glimpse into how life first colonizes barren volcanic landscapes.
- Pahoehoe lava
- Pioneer plants
- Galapagos hawks
Requirements
- ExperienceSuitable for non-divers and nature enthusiasts focusing on terrestrial wildlife and snorkeling.
Shore excursions
- Visit Las Bachas to see green sea turtle nesting grounds and American flamingos.
- Hike to the summit of Bartolome Island for panoramic views of Pinnacle Rock.
- Walk across the well-preserved Pahoehoe lava fields at Sullivan Bay.
- Observe land iguanas among the red Sesuvium plants on South Plaza Island.
- Explore the giant prickly pear cactus forests on Santa Fe Island.
- Stroll the white sand beach at Witch Hill (Cerro Brujo).
- Trek the steep trails of Punta Pitt to spot three distinct booby species.
- Visit the San Cristobal Highlands to see giant tortoises and lava tunnels.
- Hike across the pahoehoe lava fields at Sullivan Bay to witness the island's volcanic origins.
- Climb the trails at Bartolome for a panoramic view of Pinnacle Rock and the surrounding volcanic cones.
- Explore the white coral sand beach of Las Bachas to see turtle nesting sites and flamingo lagoons.
Good to know
- Check-in and check-out times are confirmed upon booking.
- The itinerary is subject to change based on Galapagos National Park regulations and weather conditions.
- Hiking levels vary from easy beach walks to challenging steep paths at Pitt Point.
Day-by-day plan
Day 1: Embarkation – Santa Cruz & Las Bachas
After arriving at Baltra Airport, you will be met by a certified naturalist guide and transferred to the vessel to begin your journey. The afternoon is dedicated to exploring Las Bachas on Santa Cruz, a notable nesting ground for Pacific green turtles where historical WWII remains can still be seen.
Dive sites: Las Bachas
Day 2: Bartolome · Sullivan Bay Volcanic Discovery
The morning features an excursion to Bartolome Island, where you can admire the iconic Pinnacle Rock and a surreal volcanic landscape. In the afternoon, visit Sullivan Bay to walk across expansive pahoehoe lava fields, observing the contrast between the dark volcanic stone and the surrounding turquoise waters. The area is known for its resident Galapagos penguins and diverse coastal birdlife.
Dive sites: Bartolome, Sullivan Bay
Day 3: South Plazas & Santa Fe Island Exploration
Begin the day at South Plaza, a small but vibrant island famous for its red sesuvium ground cover and large land iguana colonies lounging under giant cacti. Later, sail to Santa Fe Island to visit its picturesque bay, which is often frequented by sea lions and features a unique species of land iguana endemic to this island alone.
Dive sites: South Plaza Island, Santa Fe Island
Day 4: San Cristobal – Witch Hill & Punta Pitt
Walk the pristine white sands of Witch Hill, a site historically significant for being one of Charles Darwin's first stops in the archipelago. The afternoon is spent at Punta Pitt, the only location in the Galapagos where all three species of boobies can be seen nesting together on the rugged volcanic cliffs.
Dive sites: Witch Hill, Pitt Point
Day 5: Disembarkation – San Cristobal Highlands
The final morning takes you into the lush highlands of San Cristobal to observe giant tortoises in their natural habitat and explore unique geological lava tunnels. Following the excursion, guests are transferred to the airport for their departure from the islands.
Upcoming departures
- 2026-11-21 – 2026-11-25from 2,385 USDBook
- 2026-12-05 – 2026-12-09from 2,255 USDBook
- 2026-12-19 – 2026-12-23from 2,650 USDBook
- 2027-01-02 – 2027-01-06from 2,915 USDBook
- 2027-01-30 – 2027-02-03from 2,520 USDBook
- 2027-02-13 – 2027-02-17from 2,380 USDBook
- 2027-02-27 – 2027-03-03from 2,380 USDBook
- 2027-04-10 – 2027-04-14from 2,605 USDBook
- 2027-04-24 – 2027-04-28from 2,800 USDBook
- 2027-05-08 – 2027-05-12from 2,800 USDBook
- 2027-05-22 – 2027-05-26from 2,605 USDBook
- 2027-06-05 – 2027-06-09from 2,800 USDBook
All routes of this liveaboard
About the vessel
Galaxy OrionGalápagos