Galapagos North Central Islands in Luxury

Morning flight from Quito to San Cristobal Island and transfer to the Silver Origin

One of the archipelago's northernmost islands is Genovesa. The crater of the shield volcano at Genovesa's southern end collapsed, creating Darwin Bay, a protected bay. Genovesa is frequently referred to as the "Bird Island" because of the incredible diversity of land and seabird species that can be found there. Prince Philip's Steps provide access to the level plateau above the harbour, and there are two visitor centres. The "stairs" are largely made of natural materials and are named after Prince Philip, who made two trips to the Galapagos. Red-billed Tropicbirds live on the steep cliffs, while Magnificent Frigatebirds, Nazca, and Red-footed Boobies favour the top. A palo santo grove and a sizable lava field can be seen on the plateau that is above Prince Philip's Steps.

Later in the day the ship docks in Darwin Bay, a former volcanic crater that is now covered by the sea. Zodiacs arrive at a lovely beach with fine, white sand where Galapagos sea lions frequently lie down to rest. Explorations near the shore may turn up marine iguanas that resemble small versions of extinct dinosaurs. Visitors may come to seabirds of all sizes and shapes breeding in the foliage by moving slightly inland.

This small island is home to an amazing profusion of wildlife, with two species of frigatebird, blue-footed boobies, brown noddies and more. Sealions doze on the beach and on the rocks and bothe marine and colourful land iguanas patrol the beach and surroundings.

On the east coast of Santiago Island, we land on the beach or on lava rocks, distinctive for their swirly appearance. As the day heats up, we will cool off with some welcome snorkelling.

Fernandina Island's new lava fields conceal a cove surrounded by mangroves that is ideal for bird-watching and snorkelling. The mangroves serve as a nursery for young sharks and sea turtles. Marine Iguanas and flightless cormorants may be seen by snorkelers.

The impressive Pahoehoe lava field is located on Isabela Island's south coast, between the Sierra Negra and Cerro Azul volcanoes. The Cromwell Current brings rich waters to the shores, which are home to the world's largest marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, and diving Galapagos penguins. A walk through the lava field reveals coastal lagoons, an oasis in the desert where shorebirds such as White-cheeked Pintail Ducks, Black-necked Stilts, and flamingos can be seen.

Santa Cruz Island has a maximum elevation of 864 metres, which results in different weather conditions at different elevations. This diversity results in distinct flora and fauna, with the highlands providing easier living conditions due to plentiful fresh water and favourable weather for crop cultivation. Giant tortoises, too, find the highlands an appealing place to mate, feed, and rest before making their way to the coast.

Later, discover the unique Santa Fe Land Iguana, which can only be found on this island. Our adventure begins on a sea lion-infested beach, where curious pups greet visitors. Exploration of the rocky terrain will lead to breathtaking cliff views. Admire the islands' tallest and widest prickly pear cactus, and dive into the crystal-clear waters for breathtaking snorkelling and kayaking adventures.

Espanola is the ldlest island in the archipelago. At Gardiner Bay, we can swim off the beach with sealions, a delightful experience. Further out, there is great snorkelling and kayaking. A varied and relaxing morning.

In the afternoon, we go to Punta Suarez to watch the boobies and gulls soaring above the cliffs. This is the only breeding place of the waved albatross, which can be seen here from April to December. Mockingbirds, doves and Galapagos hawks can also be spotted here.

San Cristobal, one of the Galapagos' oldest islands, is formed by long-dormant volcanoes. It is located in the archipelago's east and is home to approximately 8,000 people who make a living from tourism, fishing, government work, and limited farming in the highlands. Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, the Galapagos' capital city, is located on the island's southwestern tip and features a statue of Charles Darwin in its harbour, commemorating one of the first places he likely visited in the 1830s.

An awe-inspiring tuff cone has been carved into a stunning natural sculpture, providing a haven for birds such as blue-footed boobies and brown pelicans. Swim or snorkel at one of the Galapagos' most beautiful white sand beaches to see sea lions, sally light-footed crabs, and blue-footed boobies. Explore the lush dunes to find a coastal lagoon that was once used for salt extraction but is now home to shorebirds such as stilts and plovers.

After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for the flight home