Galapagos Escape - Solaris (Itinerary C)

5.0Based on

Carbon neutral

6 daysDuration

Small Group TourUsually 8-12 participants, maximum 18 travelers

16 peopleMaximum group size

12 - 99 yearsAge range for participants

EnglishGuide language

Easy

Light physical activity suitable for most people with average fitness levels.

Starts

Quito, Ecuador

Ends

Guayaquil, Ecuador

Highlights

Spend four nights aboard the Solaris with a knowledgeable naturalist guide

Experience incredible wildlife viewing and photographic opportunities with near-tame animals

Enjoy a high chance of spotting waved albatrosses, blue- and red-footed boobies, giant tortoises, sea lions and marine iguanas

Itinerary

For seniors with a passion for wildlife, the six-day 'Galapagos Escape - Solaris (Itinerary C)' offers a gentle-paced, immersive nature tour. Cruise from Quito to Guayaquil aboard the Solaris, visiting Bartolome, Española, and Floreana islands. With a knowledgeable naturalist by your side, discover the unique habitats of giant tortoises, sea lions, and vibrant birdlife. Enjoy easygoing walks and snorkeling adventures, all while savoring the comfort of a first-class yacht. The tour’s unique selling point: expert-led encounters with the Galapagos’ most iconic creatures in a relaxed, comfortable setting.

day 1 - Start Quito

There are free transfers available for all clients today – make sure to check the Joining Instructions for further details. A local guide will welcome you to Quito and explain the schedule for the next few days.

Accommodation: Hotel Wyndham (or similar)

Upgrade to a suite today – speak to your sales representative for more details

Accommodation:Hotel Wyndham (or similar)

day 2 - Fly to San Cristóbal Airport and Colorado Hill

Morning: Fly to Galapagos

You transfer to Quito Airport and fly to San Cristóbal Airport in the Galapagos Islands. Upon arrival, you pass through the airport inspection point to make sure no foreign plants or animals are introduced to the island and to pay the national park entrance fee. Your guide will meet you, help you collect your luggage and escort you on a short bus ride to the harbour where a dinghy will take you to the yacht.

Afternoon: Colorado Hill (San Cristóbal)

Cerro Colorado Tortoises Reserve, built to protect and expand the tortoise population on the island, is approximately 40 minutes by bus to the southeast of San Cristóbal. It includes a large corral, a visitor centre, a breeding centre and an interpretive trail. Along this trail, it is possible to see different species of native and endemic plants plus birds including the San Cristobal mockingbird, yellow warblers, many finch species and Galapagos flycatchers.

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Others:Solaris

day 3 - Española Island

Morning: Gardner Bay (Española)

On the northeast coast, Gardner Bay offers a wonderful place to refresh in the turquoise sea and to admire a large number of colourful reef fish. You can also snorkel with green sea turtles or watch the playful Galapagos sea lions. The white-sand beach is also an important breeding ground for the green sea turtles. In the crystal-clear ocean, whales can sometimes be spotted if the conditions are right.

Afternoon: Suarez Point (Española)

Huge ocean waves crash onto the southern basaltic cliffs of Suarez Point, forming a spectacular blowhole, where the water sprays high into the air (depending on the season, the tide and how strongly the sea breeze pushes the waves). Take time for a meditative break on this peace-inducing viewpoint.

This rocky area is also home to the most impressive and diverse collection of seabirds in the archipelago. Depending on the season, you can admire the endangered Galapagos albatross, blue-footed and nazca boobies, swallow-tailed gulls, red-billed tropicbirds and more. Along the southern coast, high cliffs allow spectacular views of ascending birds and the seawater shooting through blow holes.

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Others:Solaris

day 4 - Floreana Island

Morning: Cormorant Point and Champion Islet (Floreana)

The peninsula of Cormorant Point forms the extreme north cape of Floreana; at the landing beach, you will be welcomed by a small colony of Galapagos sea lions. The green sand on this beach contains a high percentage of glassy olivine crystals, which were blown out by the surrounding tuff cones. The ‘flour sand’ beach on the southern side of the peninsula is made up of even finer white coral sand, which feels very smooth on the feet. Parrotfish have pulverised it, grinding the skeletons of living coral; you can even spot stingrays hiding in the sandy seabed here. During the first months of the year, Pacific green turtles come ashore to bury their eggs. Devil’s Crown offers one of the best snorkelling spots in the Galapagos due to the coral reef in its centre, which attracts a lot of marine life. Here you can spot Galapagos penguins, sea lions, sea turtles, many different colourful fish and even dolphins. The current can be a bit strong sometimes, so it should not be attempted by novice swimmers.

Afternoon: Post Office Bay and Baroness Viewpoint (Floreana)

In the 18th century, the crew of a whaling ship placed a wooden barrel at Post Office Bay. Letters put inside were collected and delivered by sailors returning home. There was no postage fee and, surprisingly, this mailbox honour system is still in use today. Although letters are no longer from sailors to their loved ones, tourists leave thousands of them today and many still reach their destination. You can also relax on the beach, where, in addition to Galapagos sea lions, Pacific green turtles and golden rays, you may see Galapagos penguins. This is the only place in the southeastern archipelago where penguins reside.

You can also climb the small basaltic cone of Baroness Lookout and enjoy the paradisiacal coastline views. This viewpoint was the favourite spot of one of Floreana's first settlers, the eccentric baroness and self-proclaimed Empress of the Galapagos, Eloisa von Wagner, who even built her house a few metres further back. There will be a long navigation at the end of the day, so we recommend you take medication for seasickness.

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Others:Solaris

day 5 - Santiago and Bartolomé

Morning: Sullivan Bay (Santiago)

The arrival in Sullivan Bay is like a moon landing. The desolate, sprawling fields seem to be mostly lifeless; but this island, which is particularly popular among photographers, still has a lot to offer. Green sea turtles burrow in the small white-sand beach, where you can also find crabs, blue herons and oystercatchers.

Afternoon: Bartolomé

The beautiful volcanic islet of Bartolomé is among the youngest of the islands and, on a geological scale, was just recently born out of the fire. Although it looks lifeless at first sight, Bartolomé has some of the wildest landscapes and best panoramas in the entire archipelago.

To enjoy an idyllic view of Pinnacle Bay, climb the stairs to the viewpoint on top of the island (375ft/114m). You enter a dramatic world of (extinguished) spatter cones, craters, and lightweight lava droplets once spewed out by fiery fountains. The summit trail is also ideal for witnessing how pioneer vegetation, such as lava cactus, struggles to take root in the bare virgin lava fields.

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Others:Solaris

day 6 - Disembark Santa Cruz; fly Baltra to Guayaquil and end

Morning: Black Turtle Cove (Santa Cruz)

This small bay, on the north side of Santa Cruz, offers a unique backdrop for unique adventures. The landscape makes you feel as if you're in the Amazon rainforest rather than near the sea. Explore the quiet emerald lagoon and surrounding shallow bays with the inflatable dinghy. The crystal-clear water allows you to spot groups of whitetip reef sharks, blacktip reef sharks, hammerhead sharks, gold rays, and spotted eagle rays.

Afternoon: transfer to Baltra Airport

Finishing our activities around 9am, the dinghy takes us (and our luggage) to Baltra, where we take the airport shuttle for our flight to Guayaquil, which typically departs around 11.38am. Arriving, you can catch your international flights from 6pm onwards.

Meals:Breakfast

Galapagos Escape - Solaris (Itinerary C)

Get Trip Brochure & Exclusive Discount

Download a detailed PDF brochure and unlock an exclusive discount for this tour

What's Included

Accommodation

All accommodation

Meals

All breakfasts, four lunches, four dinners

Transport

All transport and listed activities

Guide

Tour leader throughout

Others

Arrival transfersSnorkel equipment (mask, snorkel and fins) available free of charge on board

What's Excluded

Customer Reviews

Read what other travelers have to say about Galapagos Escape - Solaris (Itinerary C)

5.0

based on 1 review

Tour Availability

Select your preferred departure date and secure your spot

Loading availability...

Monthly Price Comparison

Good to Know

Cancellation

Payment

Travel Insurance

Visa

Do you need help from our trip consultants?

If you have any question about this tour or need help with planning a trip, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.

Our travel experts are ready to help.

Why Book with Bookmundi

Earn USD 210+ in travel credits.

Best price guaranteed.

No credit card or booking fees.

100% financial protection.Bookmundi is a member of the Danish Travel Fund which guarantees for any payment made via us. Our guarantee covers all travelers, irrespective of nationality.

Carbon neutral tours.Algorithms and machine learning enables Bookmundi to calculate the carbon footprint for each tour. We then subsequently offset carbon emissions for all tour bookings on Bookmundi via investments in carbon reduction projects to help combat climate change.

25,000+ trip reviews, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5.

What are customers saying about Bookmundi

4.67/5

Excellent based on 812 customer reviews from

Anonymous

Prompt reply to my questions which was helpful.

1 day ago

Similar Tours You Might Like

Discover our top tours similar to Galapagos Escape - Solaris (Itinerary C) that you might like.

Local Living Ecuador—Amazon Jungle

4.9(28 reviews)

Seeking a truly immersive jungle adventure? "Local Living Ecuador—Amazon Jungle" is a seven-day wildlife trip that starts and ends in Quito, designed for experienced travelers and seniors eager for authentic connection. Venture to the Amazon and become part of a Quichua family’s daily life, staying four nights in their riverside home. Guided jungle walks lead to hidden waterfalls, while canoe trips visit animal rescue centers. Learn about medicinal plants, test your skill with a blowgun, and participate in a traditional shaman ceremony. Each day offers rare opportunities to engage with people and traditions few outsiders ever encounter. The tour’s USP is its deep cultural immersion, providing not just sightseeing but genuine participation in Amazonian life. Accommodation, transport, meals, and local guidance are all included, making this tour package an unforgettable journey into the heart of the rainforest.

7 days

Galápagos Land & Sea — Central & South Islands aboard the Yolita

5.0(6 reviews)

The Galápagos Land & Sea — Central & South Islands aboard the Yolita tour invites you to spend a week exploring one of the world’s most extraordinary ecosystems. This 7-day small group trip blends sailing and wildlife experiences, whisking you from Quito to the central and southern Galápagos. Snorkel at Floreana’s Devil’s Crown—an underwater haven for marine life—and spot rare birds at Cerro Dragón. Visit Isla Santa Cruz and the legendary Post Office Bay to connect with both nature and history. The unique selling point is the seamless blend of land and sea adventures, allowing you to witness the Galápagos’ famed biodiversity from every angle while enjoying the comfort of the Yolita yacht.

7 days

The Best of Galapagos

The Galapagos Islands beckon with their timeless beauty and rare wildlife on this captivating 7-day guided tour. Begin your adventure in Quito before heading to Isabela Island, the archipelago’s largest, where volcanic landscapes meet pristine white beaches. Dive into underwater lava tunnels while snorkeling, then enjoy hiking and kayaking excursions to encounter the islands’ legendary wildlife. Explore the renowned Charles Darwin Research Station and visit El Chato—home to the giant Galapagos tortoise—in the highlands of Santa Cruz. Throughout this trip, you’ll witness the unique ecosystems that inspired Darwin’s groundbreaking theories. What sets this tour apart is its expertly guided island-hopping approach, ensuring you experience the Galapagos’ natural wonders up close. The USP: intimate wildlife encounters and exploration of multiple islands, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

7 days

Galápagos — South & East Islands aboard the Yolita

5.0(8 reviews)

Embark on a vivid exploration of the Galápagos with the Galápagos — South & East Islands aboard the Yolita, a seven-day sailing adventure departing from Quito. Over four nights on board, you’ll glide between Punta Suárez, Cerro Brujo, and North Seymour Island, encountering dazzling marine life through snorkeling at Islote Champion and Gardner Bay. The tour, tailored for experienced travelers seeking moderate physical activity, also features opportunities to lounge on white-sand beaches amid sunbathing iguanas and inquisitive sea lions. The USP of this trip lies in the diversity of its marine encounters and the chance to spot all three booby species at Punta Pitt. With comfort, meals, and all logistics included, this tour package offers both relaxation and adventure in one of the world’s most unique archipelagos.

7 days

island hopping Galapagos

Step off the beaten path and into the unique world of the Galapagos with this 7-day island-hopping tour. Explore four distinct islands, each offering a kaleidoscope of extraordinary wildlife and stunning landscapes. From iguanas and sea lions to giant tortoises and vibrant birdlife, nature lovers will find endless delights. Enjoy guided excursions with plenty of free time to wander harbors, sample local cuisine, or simply soak in the island atmosphere. Hiking enthusiasts will relish scenic trails with panoramic vistas. What sets this trip apart is the dedicated WhatsApp coaching and insider tips, ensuring you maximize your Galapagos adventure—even beyond the planned activities. Perfect for independent-minded explorers, this flexible tour package delivers both structure and freedom for an unforgettable journey.

7 days

Galapagos Adventure: Northern Islands (Grand Daphne)

Step into a world where wildlife reigns supreme on the Galapagos Adventure: Northern Islands (Grand Daphne). This 7-day guided tour from Quito explores the unique ecosystems of Isla Santa Cruz, Isla Santiago, and Isla Genovesa. Hike across lava fields, snorkel with marine creatures, and relax as the sun sets from your motor yacht each evening. The moderate activity level ensures plenty of opportunities for both exploration and relaxation. The true highlight of this trip is the close guidance of a local naturalist, giving travelers rare insight into the islands’ evolutionary wonders and making this a must-book tour for nature lovers.

7 days

Cuyabeno Amazon Eco-Lodge Adventure 5D/4N

Experience the wonders of the Ecuadorian Amazon with the Cuyabeno Amazon Eco-Lodge Adventure—a relaxed, small-group tour perfect for both young adults and seasoned explorers. Over five days, you'll journey from Quito to the heart of the Cuyabeno Reserve, enjoying guided jungle treks, canoe rides along winding waterways, and spectacular wildlife spotting. Encounter pink dolphins, playful monkeys, and vibrant toucans, while also learning about the rich traditions of local indigenous communities. Each evening, unwind in comfortable eco-lodge accommodations and savor sunsets over tranquil lagoons. The tour’s unique selling point is its immersive combination of nature, wildlife, and cultural interaction, providing an authentic Amazonian escape for curious travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

5 days

Keep Exploring Ecuador

Europe

Asia

South America

Africa

North America

Oceania

Polar

Food, wine, events and nightlife

Adventure and sport

Wildlife, landscapes and nature

Boat tours, water sports and marine wildlife

Sightseeing, attractions, culture and history

Air tours, road trips and transfers

Beach, romance, getaways and relaxation

Special interests and hobbies

Hi there

Highlights