Ecuador and Galápagos Islands Cruise

Welcome to Guayaquil, the gateway to the Galápagos Islands. On arrival, perhaps spend time at leisure exploring Ecuador's largest city and taking in its flagship sights. Guayaquil Heritage Cemetery is an infinite sea of opulent white marble statues and heavenly adornment, while Barrio Las Peñas is a vivacious rainbow of colourfully decorated buildings. Parque Seminario is best known for its thriving population of friendly iguanas, who roam free-range and happily coexist with human visitors.

This afternoon, meet your fellow travellers and Tour Director. Stay: Guayaquil, Hotel del Parque (B)

This morning, transfer to the MC Hermes where you will meet your guide and settle in to your suite. Later, embark on an excursion to the highlands of Santa Cruz Island. Visit a tortoise ranch and witness the striking Galápagos giant tortoise. The natural surrounding landscape boasts unique volcanic tubes and underground lava channels. Stay Four Nights: Galápagos Islands, MC Hermes (B/L/D)

Today, you'll travel to Rábida Island and navigate through trails at a red sand beach. Marvel at scenes of saltwater lagoons, and majestic palo santo trees. Come across wildlife including pelicans and a myriad of birdlife. This afternoon, ascend to the summit of Bartolomé Island and soak in panoramic views of volcanic formations, Pinnacle Rock and other Galápagos islands in the distance. If you're feeling active, there's an opportunity to experience Pinnacle Rock from a closer perspective through swimming and snorkelling around the perimeter. (B/L/D)

Immerse yourself in the diverse flora and fauna of South Plaza, one of the smallest islands of the Galápagos. Walk through a captivating cactus forest and be awed by an abundance of birds such as red-billed tropicbirds and near-endemic swallow-tailed gulls. Witness one of the largest populations of Galápagos land iguanas and sea lions. Afterwards, delve into the wilderness of the rugged northern shore, peppered with giant prickly pear cacti (Opuntia). (B/L/D)

Arrive in a quiet cove on San Cristóbal Island and discover Pitt Point, a remarkable location comprised of volcanic tuff substrate and known for its unique species of birds. You may be able to spot three species of boobies and two species of frigatebirds as well as sea lions sunbathing on the shore. Take the opportunity to snorkel around the island and encounter marine life. Later this afternoon, see Witch Hill's lively coastline and explore on foot. Enjoy a swim and take a short stroll to see impressive flamingos at a freshwater lagoon. (B/L/D)

This morning, you'll visit Isla Lobos, where you'll explore by foot and boat. Join a panga ride and spot the wildlife including a colony of blue-footed boobies, sea lions, and a variety of seabirds. Snorkel among playful sea lion pups in crystal-clear waters. Later, bid farewell to MC Hermes and make your way to San Cristóbal airport for your return flight to Guayaquil. Stay: Guayaquil, Hotel del Parque (B/D)

After breakfast, your South American adventure concludes with a transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)