12-Day Galapagos Expedition: Island-Hopping to Kicker Rock, Tortoises & Tintoreras
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
12 days (approx. 172–180 hours of travel and activities)
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good general health and able to do short hikes of up to 3–5 km on uneven volcanic terrain and snorkel in open water.
Overview
A 12‑day island‑hopping route through the Galápagos that blends guided snorkeling at Kicker Rock, tortoise encounters in Santa Cruz highlands, and volcanic‑rock explorations on Isabela. Expect early speedboats, wet landings and close wildlife encounters.
12-Day Galapagos Expedition: Island-Hopping to Kicker Rock, Tortoises & Tintoreras
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The first light in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno cuts across a low cloud bank and paints the harbor a hard silver; pelicans wheel like punctuation marks and the ocean smells of salt and volcanic stone. On Day One, travelers meet an English‑speaking coordinator, shoulder small bags into a compact van and begin the sort of travel that alternates between organized rhythm and freewheeling island time: speedboats that chatter across channels, short hikes over lava-strewn trails, and snorkels in water that seems lit from below.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Pack light and use duffels
Public speedboats and island transfers have limited space; soft bags fit into small holds and make transfers easier.
Bring reef‑safe sunscreen and a hat
Strong equatorial sun can burn quickly on boats and beaches; choose mineral sunscreen to protect reefs.
Wear closed shoes for rocky islets
Tintoreras and Los Túneles require sturdy sneakers for walking over sharp volcanic rock and uneven terrain.
Respect wildlife distances
Galápagos rules require keeping distance from animals—never feed or touch sea lions, tortoises, or birds to avoid stress and disease.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Galápagos giant tortoise
- marine iguana
History
The Galápagos rose to scientific prominence after Darwin’s visit in 1835; later whaling and colonization shaped settlement patterns, leading to the creation of the National Park in 1959.
Conservation
Strict park rules and visitor caps help protect endemic species; travelers should use reef‑safe products and follow guide instructions to minimize impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Lightweight duffel (carry‑on size)
Soft luggage simplifies boarding small boats and saves time during island transfers.
Snorkel mask and reef‑safe sunscreen
Personal mask ensures fit and clarity; reef‑safe sunscreen protects marine ecosystems.
Closed‑toe water shoes or trail sneakers
Protects feet on sharp lava rock and slippery islet landings like Tintoreras and Los Túneles.
Light fleece and waterproof shell
Useful in the cool, misty season (June–November) for early mornings and boat spray.
winter specific