Tour Description
Galapagos, Land-Based Adventure with Yacht Excursion
Experience the Galápagos in the smartest way
A perfectly balanced 4-day introduction to the Galapagos, this land-based adventure lets you explore iconic wildlife, beaches, and islands while staying on Santa Cruz Island. Discover the highlands, enjoy a full-day yacht excursion, snorkel with sea lions, walk among giant tortoises at Tortuga Bay and the Charles Darwin Research Station, and relax on world-class beaches, all while staying comfortably at the Angermeyer Hotel.
Perfect for first-time visitors, couples, families, and travelers seeking maximum experiences in minimum time, without the high cost of a cruise.
Meet Your Travel Advisor
Emilio
Travel Adviser
- emilio@sierratours.io
- Global Group Travel Division - Nordic
- English, Spanish, Swedish
Emilio works from Sweden with the Scandinavian market, crafting personalized journeys and ensuring travelers enjoy smooth, memorable, and authentic experiences.
Explore Ecuador in 4 Days
This 4-day Galápagos experience is a carefully crafted land-based program that allows travelers to explore the most iconic sites of Santa Cruz Island while also enjoying a full-day yacht excursion to one of the surrounding uninhabited islands.
Guests begin their journey by crossing the Itabaca Channel and visiting the lush highlands where giant tortoises roam freely in their natural habitat. The adventure continues with a yacht tour to a nearby island, offering snorkeling with tropical fish and sea lions, hiking on volcanic terrain, and unforgettable wildlife encounters such as blue-footed boobies and marine iguanas.
Back on Santa Cruz, travelers explore Tortuga Bay, famous for its white sand beach and calm turquoise waters, followed by a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn about conservation efforts that protect the unique ecosystem of the islands.
This itinerary is perfect for travelers seeking a combination of nature, wildlife, relaxation, and educational experiences all while enjoying comfortable accommodations and professional local guides.
Itinerary
This itinerary is designed for travelers who want to experience the main highlights of the Galápagos Islands in a short time without changing hotels or taking a cruise. It is ideal for couples, families, and first-time visitors who prefer comfortable hotel stays combined with guided day tours by land and sea. The program offers close encounters with wildlife, scenic landscapes, cultural visits, and opportunities for swimming and snorkeling, making it a well-rounded introduction to the Galápagos.
Description
Upon arrival at Baltra Airport, your adventure begins with a scenic crossing of the Itabaca Channel to Santa Cruz Island. From there, you head into the lush highlands where giant tortoises roam freely in their natural habitat — a magical first encounter that few destinations on Earth can offer. You will also explore fascinating volcanic formations such as lava tunnels and craters, learning how these islands were formed. The day ends with a comfortable transfer to your hotel, giving you time to relax and prepare for the adventures ahead.
Meals
- Lunch
- Dinner
Highlights
- Giant tortoises, volcanic scenery, countryside views
Accommodation
Description
Today is the highlight for many travelers: a full-day yacht excursion to one of the spectacular uninhabited islands of the Galápagos, such as Bartolomé, Santa Fe, North Seymour, or South Plaza (destination depends on availability). You will enjoy guided walks among nesting birds, marine iguanas, and dramatic volcanic landscapes, followed by snorkeling in crystal-clear waters where playful sea lions and tropical fish swim around you. Lunch is served onboard, and every moment is guided by certified naturalist experts who bring the islands to life. This is the day when most travelers realize why the Galápagos is considered one of the greatest wildlife destinations on the planet.
Meals
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Highlights
- Snorkeling, sea lions, blue-footed boobies, volcanic islands
Accommodation
Description
The morning begins at Tortuga Bay, famous for its white sand beach, turquoise water, and breathtaking natural beauty. Here you can swim, relax, and observe marine iguanas and shore birds in a peaceful, untouched setting — perfect for photos and unforgettable memories. In the afternoon, you will visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, where you learn about the conservation programs that protect endemic species such as giant tortoises and land iguanas. This visit adds meaning to your trip by showing how tourism supports the preservation of this fragile ecosystem. This day balances relaxation, learning, and emotional connection with the islands.
Meals
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Box lunch
Highlights
- White sand beaches, wildlife, conservation programs
Description
✈️ Experience Description After breakfast, you will be transferred back to Baltra Airport for your return flight to mainland Ecuador. With incredible photos, unforgettable encounters, and once-in-a-lifetime memories, you leave the islands knowing you experienced the very best of the Galápagos in just four days.
Meals
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Highlights
- Scenic transfer, stress-free departure
Accommodation
Travel package information
This information outlines the itinerary, highlighting what's included and what's not, along with key details such as a travel essentials list, departure date, travel duration, best time to travel, price, payment terms, group size, and other important facts, helping travelers fully understand the package and know what to expect during their trip.
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Accommodation
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Meals and beverages as specified in the program
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Taxes, tourist fees, and entrance fees mentioned in the itinerary
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Guided excursions with English-speaking guides
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Snorkel equipment
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24/7 service and assistance throughout the entire journey
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Flights to/from Galápagos
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Galapagos National Park fee
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Migratory Control Card
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Optional activities
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Tips
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Travel insurance
Frequently Asked Questions - Tours
The FAQ section addresses common queries about the travel package, including key details such as the itinerary, what's included and excluded, payment terms, group size, departure dates, and other important information, ensuring travelers have all the necessary details to prepare for their trip.
International flights are not included unless specified. Domestic flights may be included depending on the destination and itinerary.
Hotels are pre-selected for quality and location, but if you have a preference or request, let us know—we'll do our best to accommodate.
Yes, the package includes guided group tours with experienced, English-speaking (and sometimes bilingual) guides.
This is a set package, but minor adjustments may be possible for an extra cost. For full flexibility, consider a tailor-made trip.
Breakfast is not included on international travel or arrival days. During the tour, breakfast is included only when explicitly stated in the itinerary. Any additional meals, including lunch or dinner, are provided only if clearly specified in the tour program.
Groups usually include 10–16 travelers. Some transportation services (like buses or boats) may accommodate more.
Yes, we strongly recommend travel insurance to cover medical needs, trip cancellations, and other unexpected situations.
We'll provide a packing list tailored to your trip, but basics include comfortable clothing, walking shoes, sun protection, and a reusable water bottle.
Yes, airport transfers are typically included, but please confirm with your booking to ensure coverage for both arrival and departure.
The package includes 4-star hotel accommodations with breakfast, guided group tours, transfers, entrance fees as per the itinerary, and some meals (as specified).
About your Trip
Need help
Together with you, we plan a customized trip according to your preferences, with the content and standard you desire. The travel advisor will discuss the trip layout with you and provide new suggestions based on your wishes.