• This day you will have the chance to visit one of the most remarkable icons of the islands: Kicker Rock (a.k.a. León Dormido), which is the remains of a volcanic cone that has been eroded by the sea. Above the water, the monolithic rock formation towers over 500 feet above the Pacific Ocean and is home to a number of Tropicbirds, Blue-footed Boobies and Frigate birds. But, the true appeal of this location occurs below the surface of the sea. The natural erosion of this ancient cone has created a channel between the rocks that provides the ideal habitat to view a variety of sharks and rays including Spotted Eagle Rays, White-tip Reef sharks, the elusive Galapagos Shark and Hammerheads! Because there are no safe places to moor at Kicker Rock, a lunch stop and swim at Manglesito Beach on Islas Lobos is included, where you can snorkel with friendly Sea Lions or take a stroll on the beach.
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After lunch you will have the chance to do one of the most amazing programs: the bay tour & Tintoreras. On this tour you may find yourself staring at Penguins or face-to-face with the most playful and delightful Galapagos native, the Sea Lion. The emerald waters of Las Tintoreras abound with marine life including the internationally renowned Galapagos Penguins and Blue-Footed Boobies. Sea Turtles are also common residents of this area. A brief walking tour across A'A' lava flows provides additional up-close encounters with Marine Iguanas, resting White Tip Sharks, and newborn Sea Lions. An open water snorkel in the bay completes this very popular marine adventure. Two Nights at Hotel Abelmarle including Breakfast & local taxes.
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• The Sierra Negra volcano is one of five volcanos on the island of Isabela, and boasts the second largest volcanic caldera in the world (Yellowstone National Park in the United States is the largest in case you were wondering). On the Sierra Negra Volcano Tour you hike to the rim of the six mile wide crater and then trek across an alien landscape of lava fields and fumaroles. The Sierra Negra is one of the most active volcanoes in the Galapagos, with the last eruption in 2005. Though you probably won't see any lava flowing, you will have the opportunity to explore thermal vents and other fascinating geologic features before stopping for a snack near Volcan Chico. The vistas from this spot are among the most breathtaking in Isabela and on clear afternoons afford views of the northern volcanoes on Isabela and Fernandina. A savory hot lunch at Campo Duro rounds out this challenging but rewarding day. Afternoon few hours to enjoy the beach.
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Leave Isabela Island early in the morning and take a speedboat to Santa Cruz (about 2 hours trip). Arrival in Puerto Ayora and transfer to hotel for check-in or leave your luggage. The Highlands of Santa Cruz offer a lush contrast to the beaches and arid lowlands found elsewhere on the island. With one of our Naturalist Guides you will visit some of the highlights of the 'Parte Alta'. A stop at the twin craters Los Gemelos is one of the first sights on your highlands tour.

A visit to the Moreno family farm, Las Primicias, provides the opportunity to marvel at the celebrated Giant Galapagos Tortoise roaming in its natural habitat. You can also explore a cavernous underground Lava Tunnel where you can view one of the geological wonders of our volcanic islands. You will also be able to explore some of the "back roads" of Santa Cruz on the way to Puerto Ayora. Lunch will be served at one of the farms of the area.

Return to Puerto Ayora. Two Nights at Hotel Isla Azul including Breakfast & local taxes.

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This tour starts with a water taxi from the Puerto Ayora main pier to your awaiting motorboat. Next, enjoy the scenic ride along the west coast of Santa Cruz past Tortuga Bay and other isolated beaches. Manta Rays and whales can sometimes be seen from the boat during the appropriate season. Nameless Island is the first destination, which is located approximately 90 minutes west of Puerto Ayora. Blue-Footed Boobies, Nazca Boobies, Frigate Birds and Gulls all use the small island as nesting areas. Sea Lions often rest on the shore and Sea Turtles and Rays can also be spotted in the waters nearby. It is prohibited to disembark on this island.

This tour can be designed as a sport fishing charter if your group is interested, either way a few lines will be cast to see what is biting. You will then cruise back to the coast of Santa Cruz for some snorkeling in the azure waters near Playa Palmas. Snorkeling along the rocks in the small bay allows for sightings of Sea Lions, Sea Turtles, Rays and a variety of other sea life. Lunch is onboard which may include fresh ceviche (if the fish were biting). A wet landing, or snorkel at Playa Palmas completes this tour where you can enjoy the coastal wildlife, relax on the beach or participate in some beach clean-up (if you choose).

Farewell dinner at one of the nicest restaurants of Puerto Ayora.

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Meet by your guide at the hotel lobby & transfer to the airport for flight back to Quito or Guayaquil. On the way visit the Charles Darwin Station and get to see the Galapagos Islands through the eyes of the legendary explorer, Charles Darwin. Learn the history of the islands and see endemic and native flora and fauna, including Land Iguanas and the ever-popular Giant Tortoise. The station is the hub of conservation research in the Galapagos and has a wealth of information about the fragile and distinctive ecosystems you will visit in this island chain. Arrival at the airport, your guide will help you with all your check-in procedure.
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