Galapagos Intensive 5 days, land base (3 Islands)

San Cristobal Island, Ecuador



Great, Galapagos Natural Life direct tour operator had designed this tour in order to know the better places to see wildlife.

Galapagos 5-Day Island Tour

This 5-day tour covers three islands in the Galapagos, ideal for wildlife enthusiasts wanting to see giant tortoises and marine species.

Itinerary

Day 1: Santa Cruz Island – Highlands
Visit El Chato 1 or 2, or Primicias Farm, where you can observe giant Galapagos tortoises in their natural habitat.

Day 2: Isabela Island – Tunnels
Explore the Tunnels, a top snorkeling spot with calm, clear waters and unique lava formations. This marine sanctuary hosts various endemic species.

Day 3: Isabela Island – Puerto Villamil Wetlands, Tortoise Breeding Center, and Tintoreras

  • Wetlands: Walk through lagoons, swamps, and mangroves to see birds like common stilts, whimbrels, white-cheeked pintails, and gallinules.
  • Flamingo Lake: Visit salt and brackish lagoons for diverse coastal birds and the largest flamingo population in the Galapagos.
  • Arnaldo Tupiza Breeding Center: Learn about giant tortoise conservation and view hatchlings and adults in protected enclosures.
  • Tintoreras Islets: Spot white-tipped reef sharks, Galapagos penguins, marine turtles, sea lions, and marine iguanas in their reproduction sites.

Day 4: Bartolomé Island or North Seymour or Pinzon Island (one choice)

  • Bartolomé: Dive and snorkel with penguins, sea lions, white-tip reef sharks, and tropical fish. The bay is a seasonal green turtle mating and nesting site.
  • North Seymour: Observe blue-footed boobies, swallow-tailed gulls, land iguanas, frigates, and sea lions with their young.

Day 5: Santa Cruz Island – Twin Craters and Transfer
Visit the Twin Craters followed by transfer to Baltra airport (transfer by driver only, no guide).

Includes

  • Bilingual guide authorized by Galapagos National Park
  • Accommodation in tourist-class hotels
  • Breakfast and lunch
  • Snorkeling equipment
  • Transfers: airport – hotel – airport

Excludes

  • Galapagos National Park entrance fee $200
  • Transit Control Card (TCT) $20
  • Lobito bus $10 ($5 each way)
  • Galapagos flight tickets and taxes
  • Aqua taxi $2
  • Isabela dock fee $10 (cash)
  • Dinners
  • Wetsuit rental
  • Tips and additional expenses

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Booking Tips

Bring swimwear, sun protection, and comfortable walking shoes. The best time to visit is during the dry season from June to December. Confirm departures as tours can start with a minimum of one passenger any day.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour visits Santa Cruz, Isabela, and either Bartolomé or North Seymour islands in the Galapagos.
This tour is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts interested in exploring Galapagos land habitats and seeing native species like Giant Tortoises.
Departures are available any day with a minimum of one passenger, allowing flexible scheduling.
You will visit the highlands of Santa Cruz, including El Chato or Primicias Farm, to see Giant Galapagos Tortoises in their natural environment.
Day 2 includes snorkeling at The Tunnels on Isabela Island, known for calm, clear waters suitable for this activity.
No prior experience is required, but basic swimming skills are recommended for snorkeling at The Tunnels on Isabela Island.
Yes, inter-island transportation is part of the tour to cover visits to Santa Cruz, Isabela, and Bartolomé or North Seymour.
Yes, the tour offers chances to see a variety of Galapagos wildlife across the three islands including marine iguanas and sea birds.
Check the official tour website for the most up-to-date hours, availability, and booking details.

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