The Galapagos Islands
A Bucket List Opportunity

Quito, Santa Cruz, San Cristobal, Espanola, Santa Fe
8 Nights

Past journey

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3 Home bases
9 Destinations
Moderate
Activity level
Ultimate
Service level
Group size : 8
3 Home bases
9 Destinations
Group size : 8
Galapagos Islands Private Expedition with Art In Voyage
Endemic Catamaran, the Galapagos Islands Private Expedition with Art In Voyage
Pikaia Lodge, the Galapagos Islands Private Expedition with Art In Voyage

Brimming with splendorous vegetation and fascinating animal life, it is no wonder the Galapagos Islands gave rise to Charles Darwin’s unparalleled innovations. Art in Voyage presents a curated travel experience to “a little world within itself,” which combines opulence on land, and sea. Unprecedented grandeur at our Relais and Chateaux partner properties, and a luxury catamaran experience aboard the “Beyond III,” awaits. Accompany us on a journey of a lifetime, and indulge in invigorating adventure, pampering, and authentic cuisine. The bespoke itinerary includes snorkeling and diving with captivating marine flora and fauna or meandering across volcanic lava fields bustling with iguanas. From Quito to the shores of Santa Cruz, and all that lies between, we assure you that this private travel journey will be mesmerizing.

What is Included

Nights
1 night in Quito

4 nights onboard our Luxury Catamaran

2 nights in Santa Cruz
Meals
7 breakfasts

7 lunches

7 dinners with wine pairings
Activities
Private walking tour of Quito

All nature, conservation and ocean based activities on the cruise
Snorkeling, Scuba Diving, Kayaking, Land Tours & Hikes

A one-hour spa treatment at Pikaia lodge

Most activities at Pikaia lodge
(some may require a small supplement)
And More
Private luxury airport transfers (round trip)

Round trip domestic flights in the Galapagos

Services of Art In Voyage hosts

All taxes & fees

Galapagos National Park Fees

Highlights

A Diverse and Authentic Itinerary

Hike in the surreal landscapes indigenous to the Galapagos Archipelago, and discover a multitude of ecosystems and endemic wildlife. Amble along the beach, before kayaking or snorkeling in the revitalizing ocean. Acquaint yourself with the country’s history and culture by joining our private tours of the historic center of Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage site

Private Experiences & Pampering Throughout

Enjoying a Private Expedition by Art In Voyage means that you will have exclusive access to our conservation and naturalist guides, who are exceedingly knowledgeable and passionate. By joining a private expedition, you are guaranteed to be immersed in Mother Nature without skimping on the indulgence factor.

Itinerary

B = Breakfast
L = Lunch
D = Dinner
|The itinerary as presented may need to be modified from time to time to address possible logistical and weather challenges.
The itinerary as presented may need to be modified from time to time to address possible logistical and weather challenges.
Touchdown in Ecuador

Day 1- Touchdown in Ecuador

Day 1 : Touchdown in Ecuador

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We will welcome you to Ecuador with a private transfer from the airport to our picturesque property, where you will be warmly greeted with cocktails followed by a traditional lunch. That afternoon, we will introduce you to the UNESCO World Heritage site, Quito, where a private local guide will lead us on a walking tour of the city's most wondrous cultural and historical sites. Learning more about ancient arts and crafts will be done by paying a special visit to the local artisans. In the evening, we will host a welcome dinner in your honor at the renowned gourmet restaurant Zazu, where your meal will be paired with both local and international wines.

Making Our Way to The Islands

Day 2- Making Our Way to The Islands

Day 2 : Making Our Way to The Islands

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After enjoying an Ecuadorian breakfast, we will make our way to the breathtaking Galapagos Islands. This swift journey will take approximately 2 hours by flight. The Beyond III crew (in addition to our conservation and nature guide) will greet us upon arrival and provide a snapshot of our upcoming 4-day itinerary. We sail to our first destination, Dragon Hill, which is a hypersaline (saltier than the ocean) lagoon that lies behind the beach. This lagoon is frequented by flamingos, common stilts, pintail ducks, and a variety of other bird species. The nesting sites of iguanas and the spectacular views of the bay can be enjoyed after a short walk to the top of the hill. Dinner will be served on board.

San Cristobal Island

Day 3- San Cristobal Island

Day 3 : San Cristobal Island

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We make our way to Cerro Brujo on San Cristobal Island, one of the first sites visited by Charles Darwin. Cerro Brujo is a pristine white-sand beach that is inhabited by brown pelicans, blue-footed boobies, sea lions, and marine iguanas. For an underwater experience, snorkeling in the turquoise waters can be enjoyed. Our next stop for the day will be Leon Dormido. This small, distinctive island comprises two rocks that jut out of the ocean. It is home to a large colony of seabirds too. Kicker Rock is an excellent dive site where you will see large rays, turtles, hammerhead sharks, and, of course, an array of reef fish. Sundowners take place at Isla Lobos, home to great frigate-birds and various beautiful Aves. Dinner will be served on board.

Espanola Island

Day 4- Espanola Island

Day 4 : Espanola Island

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Today, we set sail towards Osborn Islet (Espanola Island). This small island offers a majestic marine excursion, where you can snorkel and swim at leisure. After lunch, we make our way to Gardner Bay where the beaches and ultramarine waters are truly awe-inspiring. Around the small islets nearby, snorkelers will find multiple colorful fish and curious turtles. The bay is also frequented by a transient colony of friendly sea lions that embrace human companionship in the water. We complete the day’s adventure at Suarez Point which is one of the most outstanding regions of the Archipelago, where a plethora of wildlife species can be found along its pebbled beaches and cliffs. In addition to five species of nesting seabirds, there are the inquisitive and bold mockingbirds, Galápagos doves, and Galápagos hawks. Several types of reptiles, including the marine iguana and the oversized lava lizard, are unique to this island. Another exceptional dinner will be served on board.

Santa Fe Island

Day 5- Santa Fe Island

Day 5 : Santa Fe Island

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Post yet another delicious breakfast, we will make our way to Santa Fe Island. This is a volcanic uplift and host to a forest of Opuntia cactus, the largest of its kind in the archipelago. Here, weathered cliffs provide a haven for swallow-tailed gulls, red-billed tropicbirds, and sehar-waters petrels. Watch in awe as the Santa Fe land iguana species and lava lizards pepper the terrain. The island is home to a charming turquoise lagoon and because of its calm waters, you can snorkel amongst the sea lions (an absolute privilege indeed). After lunch, we return to Santa Cruz and stop at the Darwin Research Station. The scientific research, technical information, and provision of the appropriate channels to ensure the proper preservation of the Galápagos Islands can be found at the station. A private guided tour will inform us about the natural history, issues concerning the islands, as well as visit the tortoise breeding/rearing project. Dinner will be served on board.

South Plaza Island

Day 6- South Plaza Island

Day 6 : South Plaza Island

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We will make our way to South Plaza this morning, which has one of the largest populations of land iguanas in the Galápagos Islands. It is also home to marine iguanas; and a hybrid iguana whose ancestors are both marine and land iguanas. The stark combination of dry and coastal vegetation zones are highlighted by the panoramic cliffs and rocky trail that circumnavigates the island. We will disembark, bid the Beyond III adieu, where Pikaia Lodge will be our home for the next 2 nights. A long, lazy lunch will be served overlooking the ocean and the expansive scenery surrounding the luxury eco-lodge. Later, a relaxing spa treatment (with our compliments) awaits. Don’t get too comfortable, as a delectable dinner paired with international wines awaits.

Nature Hike & Sunset Cruise

Day 7- Nature Hike & Sunset Cruise

Day 7 : Nature Hike & Sunset Cruise

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After breakfast, for those eager to learn more about the endemic fauna and flora, we have arranged a morning hike in the surrounding jungle. We return to the property, after a delightful picnic, where you have ample time to relax before we depart for one last cruise around the island on board the property's yacht. We toast to a successful adventure with sundowners and return to the property to enjoy a gourmet dinner, paired with excellent international wines.

Time to Say Farewell, or Extend

Day 8- Time to Say Farewell, or Extend

Day 8 : Time to Say Farewell, or Extend

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A final breakfast awaits, after which we make our way to the airport to catch a short flight back to Quito. If you wish to uncover more of Quito or Ecuador we have some excellent suggestions…Why not extend your adventure to the nearby Ecuadorian Cloud Forest, where the sounds of the rainforest will wash over you as you keep your eyes peeled for butterflies and lush orchid forests? How about ticking the Inca Trail off of your bucket list with an extension to Machu Picchu? The possibilities are endless and we are eager to assist.

Accommodations

Casa Gangotena

Quito, Ecuador

Casa Gangotena occupies a pivotal spot in Quito’s Old Town: the southwest corner of San Francisco Plaza, the history of which dates all the way back to the time of the Incas. According to early Spanish chroniclers, the plaza remained surrounded by temples and palaces during the 15th century, with one temple having sat right where Casa Gangotena now stands today. The importance of the San Francisco Plaza throughout the...

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Casa Gangotena occupies a pivotal spot in Quito’s Old Town: the southwest corner of San Francisco Plaza, the history of which dates all the way back to the time of the Incas. According to early Spanish chroniclers, the plaza remained surrounded by temples and palaces during the 15th century, with one temple having sat right where Casa Gangotena now stands today. The importance of the San Francisco Plaza throughout the Colonial period and the following centuries led several wealthy families to build their homes around it. The Gangotena's — one of the capital’s leading families — whose members have consisted of important industrialists, politicians, landowners, academics and even poets build this as their stately home in 1924. Today this historic mansion houses a world class boutique hotel owned and operated by Relais & Chateaux.
Be sure to head up to the third-floor terrace and enjoy unrivaled views of the majestic mountains and volcanoes, as you reflect on the profound and historical significance of the San Francisco Plaza along with its surrounding churches and neighborhoods!

The Beyond III

Galapagos, Ecuador

The Beyond III is one of the newest and most luxurious yachts found in the Galapagos archipelago. Designed by a team of experienced shipwrights that had input from local guides and guests. Making the Beyond III the ultimate way to see these incredible islands in style and world-class comfort. The twin-hull design of this luxury catamaran allows for much more space than traditional single-hulled vessels, meaning more room and luxurious,...

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The Beyond III is one of the newest and most luxurious yachts found in the Galapagos archipelago. Designed by a team of experienced shipwrights that had input from local guides and guests. Making the Beyond III the ultimate way to see these incredible islands in style and world-class comfort. The twin-hull design of this luxury catamaran allows for much more space than traditional single-hulled vessels, meaning more room and luxurious, comfortable common areas and sailing stability. On board, you will find complimentary use of sea kayaks, paddle boards, snorkel masks, snorkels, fins, and short or long wet suits. This luxury ship boasts panoramic views with floor to ceiling glass windows in your room and throughout its interior. Plenty of outdoor and indoor lounging areas, plus a hot tub on the Sky Deck to help unwind after a day of exploring the islands. A professional chef creates irresistible meals from fresh locally grown ingredients. Meals are served in the alfresco dining area on the sky deck so that you can enjoy the cool sea breeze and take in the stunning scenery.

Pikaia Lodge

Santa Cruz Island, Ecuador

Located on the island of Santa Cruz, the Pikaia Lodge is perfectly situated to offer guests a remarkable vantage point of the surrounding natural habitat. Designed to be environmentally conscious at all levels, this spacious and serene space sits in the middle of a private, giant tortoise reserve.

This 31-hectare property is perched on the edge of an extinct, volcanic crater some 450 meters above sea level. This distinctive location creates...

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Located on the island of Santa Cruz, the Pikaia Lodge is perfectly situated to offer guests a remarkable vantage point of the surrounding natural habitat. Designed to be environmentally conscious at all levels, this spacious and serene space sits in the middle of a private, giant tortoise reserve.

This 31-hectare property is perched on the edge of an extinct, volcanic crater some 450 meters above sea level. This distinctive location creates a microclimate of its very own; warm and sunny with crisp gentle winds all year around.

Well-appointed rooms await with exquisite views of the surrounding reserve. With a small number of guest rooms, this eco-lodge guarantees a level service not found anywhere else on the island. Pikaia Lodge includes an explorations program that consists of guided adventures that cover the distinct landscapes and wildlife found on the island. Programs include hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, visiting beaches, volcanic craters, or lava tunnels; looking for giant tortoises and endemic wildlife; visiting the Charles Darwin Scientific Research Center or visiting organic coffee farms in the highlands. It boasts an onsite restaurant, infinity pool, and world-class spa. After cruising the Galapagos, you can take a few days to relax and explore the island of Santa Cruz or simply sit poolside with a cocktail and take in the scenery, hoping to catch a glimpse of the Giant Tortoises that call this area home.

Your Host

Mikael Audebert
Mikael Audebert
Founder & CEO
Creative Director

What is Included

Nights
1 night in Quito

4 nights onboard our Luxury Catamaran

2 nights in Santa Cruz
Meals
7 breakfasts

7 lunches

7 dinners with wine pairings
Activities
Private walking tour of Quito

All nature, conservation and ocean based activities on the cruise
Snorkeling, Scuba Diving, Kayaking, Land Tours & Hikes

A one-hour spa treatment at Pikaia lodge

Most activities at Pikaia lodge
(some may require a small supplement)
And More
Private luxury airport transfers (round trip)

Round trip domestic flights in the Galapagos

Services of Art In Voyage hosts

All taxes & fees

Galapagos National Park Fees

Important Information

Good to know
This itinerary may be reversed with the cruise portion on the back-end

All listed activities are optional in attendance.

Our property or ship selection is always subject to change as these are privately owned. In such instances, it will be substituted for one of equal or great value offering similar features and amenities.

Travel insurance is recommended (Art In Voyage partners with Seven Corners)
Smallprint

Our day-to-day itinerary may, from time to time and prior to departure, need to be altered or slightly modified to address possible unforeseen logistical and weather challenges. In such rare instances, Art In Voyage guarantees delivery of the content of the itinerary yet, in a different order.

All listed retreats (hotels, villas, and barges) are, at times, subject to changes. In such rare instances, similar or higher standards will be upheld.

Travel insurance, once purchased, goes into effect upon payment of the premium. You have 15 days from that date to cancel it (providing no claims have been filed or initiated during that period). Beyond 15 days, it becomes non-refundable/non-changeable/non-transferrable.

In case of a cancelation at more than 90 days prior to departure, your deposit will be returned minus a $500 per person administrative fee.

In case of a cancelation within the penalty period: Find a replacement at least 30 days prior to departure and your journey will be fully refunded, minus a $500 per person administrative fee.

How about extending?
Come early, or leave late. Allow our consultants to customize a pre- or post- extension to your journey.
Why travel with us?
Expertise & Flexibility

Friends /Family Spirit /Small Groups

Unpretentious Luxury Vibe

Exclusive Experiences

The Galapagos Islands

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The Galapagos Islands

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Find out more about The Galapagos Islands

  • If you’re excited about this journey but unable to join us for these dates, why not allow us to privatize this experience for your travel party? Simply complete the form below indicating the date range you prefer, and we will customize this itinerary to suit your needs.
  • Preferred dates
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  • A day time contact number, should we need to call you.
  • How many guests (including yourself)?
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Customize this journey

  • Your email is used as the primary form of contact.
  • Although not required, we would reach out should we be unable to get through by email.
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