Five Days in Galapagos on board the Isabela II - 5d Central With Viva Expeditions

The Galápagos Islands are special and you want a special yacht in which to explore this living laboratory of evolution.  With a capacity of only 40 guests, yacht Isabela II offers a relaxed atmosphere while enjoying an unforgettable Galapagos expedition, where guests fully experience both their sense of discovery and bonding with nature.  

Day one you arrive at Baltra Airport and transfer to the Itabaca Channel to take a ferry across to Santa Cruz Island, then visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and the giant tortoise pens within an impressive giant prickly-pear cactus forest home to many land birds. Late afternoon stroll along the main street of Puerto Ayora before embarking on Yacht Isabela II.

A stunning anchorage provides the jumping-off point for your visit to the sea lion harems, where Galápagos hawks are often easily observed, perched atop salt bushes. The endemic land iguana, unique to this island, may be spotted during the walk. Snorkelling and swimming from the beach, kayaking or a ride ina glass-bottom boat rounds off the rewarding experience.

The next morning starts with an enjoyable walk along the coast and the interior of this island, a favourite of many visitors, observing numerous bird colonies as well as sea lions and marine iguanas. There are opportunities for snorkelling or coastal exploration. You can also ride in the glass-bottom boat for great views of the underwater world.

Santa Cruz Island is an important nesting area for the east Pacific green sea turtle. Located on the north shore of Santa Cruz Island, it is a glorious white beach, with several brackish lagoons only a few steps away from the sea. These lagoons are the feeding grounds of various wading birds, from stilts to flamingos. The next morning a Galápagos icon awaits: Bartolomé Island. A great way to start the day, is with a steep climb up a wooden staircase: the view from the top is worth the effort, followed by a dinghy ride around colossal Pinnacle Rock.

You final day is spent at Sullivan Bay on the east coast of Santiago, a white coral sand beach great for swimming or snorkelling, and with a trail over a lava field that flowed here less than 100 years ago. This is the perfect place to see and feel the volcanic origin of Galápagos while observing its wildlife.