HomeLiving with Nature, Galápagos Pre-voyage Extension

Living with Nature, Galápagos Pre-voyage Extension

A three-day cultural immersion on the Island of Santa Cruz, Galápagos

Aerial view of the harbor and main pier Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos. Puerto Ayora is the most populous town in the Galapagos Islands, the population is about 15000 people.

Visit with the local farmers who provision the National Geographic ships in Galápagos, meet local researchers and beneficiaries of the Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic Fund, explore the highlands and take time to meet the people who call Galápagos home on this cultural immersion into life and conservation in the center of an iconic UNESCO World Heritage site.

On this pre-voyage extension, you will stay for two nights at Finch Bay Hotel on Santa Cruz Island in Galápagos with excursions and activities arranged and led by a veteran naturalist guide. Available on select 2025-2027 Galápagos Escape departures aboard National Geographic Islander II, this exclusive extension is limited to 12 guests.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Guayaquil or Quito, Ecuador

Arrive in Guayaquil, where you are met for the short ride to the Hotel del Parque, a 44-room Relais & Châteaux hotel set along the river in lush tropical gardens.

Day 2 - Quito or Guayaquil / Galápagos Islands / Santa Cruz

Fly to Baltra in the center of Galápagos, a little world unto itself in the Tropical Pacific. You'll be welcomed by a local naturalist upon arrival, and you'll travel together over the island of Santa Cruz, crossing through several ecological zones, to Puerto Ayora, where you'll check into your hotel. Receive your first introduction to the highlands and sample local food at a highlands farm. (B,L,D)

Day 3 - Santa Cruz, Galápagos

You'll have the full day today to meet with local friends working in a variety of fields, with your schedule depending on your guide for what and who is available today. You will have an in-depth visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station, whose work is supported by the Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic Fund. Lunch and dinner out in the town, featuring products from local providers. (B,L,D)

Day 4 - Santa Cruz, Galápagos / Embark Ship

Rest, relax and explore this morning, choosing from many options. Later head up to the highlands, and continue to the pier, where a Zodiac awaits us to bring us to the ship for lunch and the many adventures ahead. (B,L,D)