Marine Science with Mady in the Galapagos!

TrovaTrip will provide 3 arrival transfers from San Cristobal Airport (SCY) to the hotel between 8 am and 5 pm. Exact transfer time within this window will be determined closer to the trip departure based on provided traveler flight information. Travelers arriving outside of the requested flight guidelines will need to make their own transfer arrangements to meet the group at the hotel.

Let's raise a glass together to an exciting trip ahead during your welcome dinner! Tonight's gathering will take place at a local restaurant, just a brief 10-minute walk from the hotel. The evening promises a delightful 2-course set menu, offering a taste of the most authentic Ecuadorian flavors, with the traditional seafood dishes. Please note that your dinner includes one soft drink. Any additional drinks can be purchased separately at the venue.

Today, you will meet your guide to learn about the plans for the upcoming days.

Overnight in San Cristobal Island.

Breakfast is included and will be served continental-style. Breakfast usually includes a variety of options, such as hot dishes, and bread, jams, fresh fruit and hot drinks. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Your day kicks off after a hearty breakfast, with a brief 5-minute stroll to the port where a speed boat awaits. The boat has both indoor and outdoor social spaces, a restroom, and comfortably accommodates up to 16 travelers. Onboard you will find water, coffee, and tea to keep you refreshed throughout the journey. Following a thrilling 45-minute cruise, you'll arrive at Isla Lobos, stepping onto its shores to commence a guided walking exploration. The island's main attractions are the iconic colonies of blue-footed boobies and magnificent frigates, emblematic bird species of the Galapagos. Your hike's duration is flexible, typically spanning about an hour, walking through rocky and sandy terrain that reveals the island's unique wildlife. Returning to the boat, a security briefing precedes an exhilarating snorkeling session with the island's playful sea lions. All necessary gear—masks, fins, snorkels, and life jackets for non-swimmers—is provided, ensuring a safe and immersive experience for about 45 minutes in the crystal-clear waters, surrounded by these majestic creatures. Later, as you savor a tasty lunch aboard the boat, you'll cruise through the awe-inspiring Galapagos archipelago toward your next destination, Playa Ochoa. Travelers prone to seasickness are advised to carry necessary medications for comfort.

Following your snorkeling experience with the sea lions, recharge your energy with a tasty lunch. Served aboard the boat, this packed lunch-style meal includes a main dish, a dessert, and a soft drink. Savor this memorable meal surrounded by the ocean before heading to Ochoa Beach.

After lunch, a brief 25-minute boat ride takes you to Ochoa Beach, a wild beach located on San Cristobal Island. Upon arrival, ample time awaits for you to discover this pristine haven, admiring the untouched beauty of the Galapagos. Take leisurely strolls on the powdery white sands, enveloped by endemic flora, while listening to the waves. Keep an eye out for the cool-looking marine iguanas chilling on the rocks – they're the iconic inhabitants of the Galapagos. Should your appetite for snorkeling persist, seize the opportunity to grab your gear and explore the underwater wonders by swimming from the shore. Once you finish, return to the boat for a 10-minute journey to San Cristobal pier, followed by a brief 5-minute walk back to your hotel. Arriving in the afternoon, you'll have free time to either explore the surroundings or unwind at your leisure.

We will spend time together to talk about what it means to be on this trip, what we expect to get out of it, and what the next steps can be for each of us once back home! I will also present a bunch of fun little games we will be able to do throughout the whole trip to deepen our Marine Biology knowledge and keep having fun!

Overnight in San Cristobal Island.

Breakfast is included and will be served continental-style. Breakfast usually includes a variety of options, such as hot dishes, bread, jams, fresh fruit and hot drinks. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Public speedboat

Upon arrival, a brief 5-minute transfer will take you to the Charles Darwin Research Station, a hub dedicated to preserving the islands' biodiversity. Expert guides offer insights into ongoing conservation efforts, including successful giant tortoise breeding programs, unraveling the region's evolutionary significance. The station, nestled amidst lush surroundings, offers great facilities such as restrooms and a cafe, making the 1.5-hour educational tour comfortable and informative. Following the tour, enjoy some free time for lunch at nearby restaurants. Afterward, walk back to the pier and board the boat to continue your journey to Isabela Island.

Public speedboat

In the late afternoon, gather in the hotel lobby to join your guide for a relaxed walking tour through Puerto Villamil town. Immerse yourself in the unhurried island lifestyle, embracing the local culture as you explore. Discover small art galleries, shops, and local markets, offering opportunities to purchase souvenirs, handmade crafts, and engage with friendly locals. During the tour, you'll visit nearby lagoons where a colony of serene flamingos reside. Marvel at these elegant birds and other endemic species from walkways and viewpoints. Conclude the tour by strolling back to the hotel along the town's charming waterfront, graced with local seafood restaurants offering an authentic Galapagos dining experience (at your own expense) amidst breathtaking ocean views. The leisurely walking tour covers approximately 1 to 1.5 miles, showcasing the town's highlights. It's advisable to have mosquito repellent handy.

Overnight in Isabela Island

Breakfast is included and will be served American-style. San Vicente Hotel breakfast usually includes a variety of options, such as hot dishes, a selection of cold cuts, exquisite pastries and bread, jams, fresh fruit and hot drinks. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

After breakfast, a quick 5-minute transfer brings you to the pier, where a panga boat awaits for your short 15-minute journey to Tintoreras Islet. As you arrive, the striking volcanic terrain captivates with its rugged, lava-formed landscape, setting the stage for your adventure. Accompanied by an expert guide, embark on a hike across the islet, uncovering the breathtaking sight of marine iguanas sprawled across shores and rocks. These captivating creatures, boasting a spectrum of colors and sizes, bask in the sun and forage, providing an enchanting glimpse into the iconic wildlife of the Galapagos. The 1.5-mile trail winds through white sand beaches and contrasting black rock formations, offering a flat path for about 1.5 to 2 hours of exploration. After the hike, return to the boat to delve into an immersive snorkeling experience. Kindly be aware that Tintoreras Islet is a natural area, offering no facilities or services.

Upon returning to the panga boat, the captain will navigate to prime reef areas for an up-close encounter with the incredible underwater wildlife. Following a safety briefing, immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters surrounding Tintoreras Islet for an unforgettable snorkeling experience. A highlight includes swimming alongside white-tipped reef sharks, a thrilling yet safe experience with these magnificent creatures. The underwater realm boasts a rich diversity of marine life, from colorful fish weaving through vibrant coral formations to playful sea lions darting by. It's important to note that while these species are not harmful and roam freely, Galapagos conservation guidelines require maintaining a strict 6ft distance from all animals, even if they approach, to uphold their natural habitat. All essential gear—masks, fins, snorkels, and life jackets for non-swimmers—is provided. This experience typically lasts about 45 minutes, depending on water conditions. Once concluded, the panga boat will take you back to Isabela port, followed by a brief 5-minute transfer to your hotel. You'll have ample time to enjoy lunch at your leisure and the rest of the day free to explore nearby beaches.

It's been a long day! But for those who want, let's gather to tell spooky (fictional) ocean stories! Can you come up with a tale that will make us all curl up our toes?

Overnight in Isabela Island

Breakfast is included and will be served American-style. San Vicente Hotel breakfast usually includes a variety of options, such as hot dishes, a selection of cold cuts, exquisite pastries and bread, jams, fresh fruit and hot drinks. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

In the early morning, prepare for check-out and meet with your guide in the hotel lobby. A brief 5-minute transfer takes you to the trailhead of the Wall of Tears, offering a gentle hike blending historical insight with stunning natural scenery. This 8-mile stroll traverses well-maintained paths amid the unique Galapagos flora and fauna. Your naturalist guide enriches the experience with insights into endemic plants and bird species. The trail, relatively easy, culminates at the Wall of Tears—a monumental structure crafted entirely from volcanic rocks by prisoners of the island's former penal colony during the 1940s. This historic landmark stands as a testament to the harsh penal conditions of the past. As the hike winds back to Isabela town, the trail meanders through mangrove forests, offering an appreciation of the diverse ecosystem thriving in this habitat. Arriving at the hotel around midday allows time to freshen up in their public restrooms. Enjoy some leisurely free time for lunch before boarding the boat to depart Isabela. Duration: 3 hours / Difficulty: Easy / Length: 8 miles. / Elevation Gain: 70 ft

Public speedboat

Later in the afternoon, commence a walking tour of Puerto Ayora town right from your hotel, accompanied by your guide. Begin at the bustling waterfront, where colorful boats and bustling fishermen set the vibrant scene. Explore the town's fish market, offering insights into the local maritime industry. Wander along Charles Darwin Avenue, a lively boulevard adorned with shops, cafes, and galleries. Conclude at the main square, a bustling hub perfect for soaking in the town's energy and ambiance. Following the orientation walk, you have the option to return to the hotel or choose to dine (at your expense) at one of the local restaurants. This walking tour covers approximately 1 to 1.5 miles on foot.

Overnight in Santa Cruz Island.

Breakfast is included and will be served American-style. Hotel breakfast usually includes a variety of options, such as hot dishes, a selection of cold cuts, exquisite pastries and bread, jams, fresh fruit and hot drinks. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Following breakfast, take a 40-minute transfer to El Manzanillo Ranch, a dedicated highland reserve aimed at preserving the habitat of the Giant Tortoise. As you arrive, the lush surroundings and rolling landscapes immediately immerse you in this conservation haven. Your visit involves a guided exploration of the reserve, led by expert naturalists who share insights into the behavior, biology, and significance of these remarkable creatures. Learn about their lifecycle, habitat requirements, and the ongoing conservation efforts aimed at protecting these gentle giants. The highlight of the tour is witnessing the Giant Tortoises in their natural environment. Rain boots are provided to wander through the reserve and witness these magnificent creatures roam freely, graze leisurely, or bathe in mud pools—a sight that captures the essence of the Galapagos' unique biodiversity. After this leisurely 2-hour walk spanning approximately 1 mile within the reserve, a traditional lunch awaits at the ranch. Following lunch, a transfer will take you to the hotel.

At midday, you will savor a traditional lunch at El Manzanillo Ranch. The meal features a 2-course set menu accompanied by one soft drink. Additional beverages can be purchased separately at the venue.

After the Giant Tortoise tour, you'll have a brief moment at the hotel to freshen up before continuing with a 15-minute transfer to the trailhead of Tortuga Bay. The walk spans an easy 1.5-mile cobblestone trail, approximately 45 minutes. It's recommended to carry ample water and wear a hat for sun protection. Upon arrival at the beach, discover a vast expanse of sandy shores ideal for relaxation, sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying leisure time with fellow travelers. For enthusiasts, a short trail awaits, offering sightings of marine iguanas, brown pelicans, blue-footed boobies, blue herons, and more. Kayaks are available for rent from local vendors for an additional fee. The afternoon unfolds at the beach, allowing for a relaxed plan. Later, a walk back along the cobblestone trail leads to the vehicle for the return transfer to the hotel. Enjoy some free time to prepare for the farewell dinner

In the late afternoon, a brief 10-minute walk will bring you to a local restaurant for your farewell dinner with fellow travelers. Indulge in a delightful 2-course set menu showcasing traditional Ecuadorian cuisine. A soft drink or fresh juice is provided, and any additional drinks can be purchased on-site. Please bear in mind that the menu may be subject to change based on the confirmed restaurant.

The trip is coming to an end! But our connections have not. This is an experience we will all remember, and I'm looking forward to keep talking to you once the trip is over! We will reflect on the activities of the past few days, our learnings, our connections, and see how we can apply it all to marine conservation once back home!

Overnight in Santa Cruz Island.

Breakfast is included and will be served American-style. Hotel breakfast usually includes a variety of options, such as hot dishes, a selection of cold cuts, exquisite pastries and bread, jams, fresh fruit and hot drinks. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Trova Trip will provide two departure transfers from the hotel to Baltra Airport (GPS) between 8 am and 12 pm. Exact transfer time within this window will be determined closer to the trip departure based on provided traveler flight information. Travelers departing outside of the requested flight guidelines will need to make their own transfer arrangements to the airport.