Galapagos Outer Loop

Baltra Island serves as the gateway to the enchanting Galápagos Islands, a place where nature's wonders take centre stage. This small, flat island, primarily known for its airbase and the start/end point for many Galápagos adventures, is surrounded by the rich biodiversity that defines this unique archipelago. The nearby Santa Cruz Island, accessible via a short boat ride, offers a plethora of natural attractions and wildlife encounters.

Visitors can look forward to exploring the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz, where they can learn about conservation efforts and see the famous Galápagos tortoises up close. The archipelago's pristine beaches, such as Tortuga Bay, offer relaxing moments amidst breathtaking scenery, while the surrounding waters are a haven for snorkelling and spotting marine life. Baltra's strategic location makes it the ideal start/end point for exploring the wonders of the Galápagos.

Daphne Island, a small volcanic island in the Galápagos, serves as a vital research site for evolutionary studies, famously visited by scientists like Charles Darwin and the Grants. This isolated spot is renowned for its rigorous scientific observation of finches, which has contributed significantly to the understanding of natural selection. The island's terrain is rugged, featuring a crater that provides a challenging yet rewarding hike for visitors.

Due to its importance for research and fragile ecosystem, access to Daphne is restricted, making visits rare and special. Those fortunate enough to explore here can witness a dense population of birds including blue-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, and magnificent frigatebirds. Daphne offers a unique perspective on the dynamics of isolated ecosystems and the wonders of evolution.

Gardner Bay, located on Española Island in the Galápagos, is renowned for its pristine white-sand beaches and abundant wildlife. This idyllic bay is a haven for sea lions, which can often be seen lounging on the shore or playing in the surf. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkelling, offering encounters with colourful fish, sea turtles, and occasional rays.

Birdwatchers will delight in spotting species such as the Española mockingbird and the waved albatross. The serene environment and natural beauty of Gardner Bay provide a peaceful retreat for nature enthusiasts, making it a must-visit spot in the Galápagos.

Cormorant Point, located on Floreana Island, is a site of remarkable ecological interest. This point is renowned for its contrasting landscapes, featuring a green olivine crystal beach and a fine white sand beach, making it visually striking. It's also a key nesting site for sea turtles and a wonderful spot to observe flamingos and other bird species in the brackish lagoons just behind the beaches.

Visitors usually reach Cormorant Point via a short hike from where the tender docks. The trail leads to a lookout that offers spectacular views of the surrounding waters, including the famous Devil's Crown, an underwater volcanic cone known for its exceptional snorkelling opportunities.

Bahia Post Office, better known as Post Office Bay, is situated on Floreana Island in the Galápagos. This location is steeped in historical charm, famously housing an 18th-century barrel used by whalers as an unofficial mail system. Visitors today continue the tradition by leaving postcards in the barrel, hoping they will be picked up and delivered by fellow travellers passing through, without any need for postage.

Post Office Bay is not only a portal to the past but also a gateway to exceptional natural surroundings. The area is ideal for snorkelling, revealing vibrant underwater ecosystems, and kayaking along the coast allows for exploration of its serene coves. The blend of historical intrigue and engaging outdoor activities makes Post Office Bay a memorable stop.

Cerro Dragon, also known as Dragon Hill, is located on the northwestern side of Santa Cruz Island in the Galápagos. This site is named for its population of land iguanas, which roam freely in their natural habitat. The hill offers a moderate hike that provides visitors with the opportunity to see these fascinating creatures up close, along with a chance to observe a variety of bird species, including flamingos in the seasonal lagoons at the base of the hill.

The path leads to a viewpoint atop the hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the coastline and the interior of Santa Cruz Island. Cerro Dragon's unique wildlife and scenic beauty make it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and those interested in the conservation efforts being made to protect the endangered land iguanas.

The Fausto Llerena Breeding Center, located on Santa Cruz Island in the Galápagos, is a vital conservation facility dedicated to the preservation of giant tortoises. Visitors can observe various tortoise species at different stages of development, learning about the center's efforts to protect these iconic creatures from extinction.

The facility also features exhibits detailing the natural history and ecological importance of the Galápagos tortoises. A guided tour offers insights into the breeding programs and the challenges faced in conservation. The center is surrounded by lush vegetation, providing a scenic backdrop for exploring the unique biodiversity of the Galápagos Islands.

Baltra Island serves as the gateway to the enchanting Galápagos Islands, a place where nature's wonders take centre stage. This small, flat island, primarily known for its airbase and the start/end point for many Galápagos adventures, is surrounded by the rich biodiversity that defines this unique archipelago. The nearby Santa Cruz Island, accessible via a short boat ride, offers a plethora of natural attractions and wildlife encounters.

Visitors can look forward to exploring the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz, where they can learn about conservation efforts and see the famous Galápagos tortoises up close. The archipelago's pristine beaches, such as Tortuga Bay, offer relaxing moments amidst breathtaking scenery, while the surrounding waters are a haven for snorkelling and spotting marine life. Baltra's strategic location makes it the ideal start/end point for exploring the wonders of the Galápagos.