5-Day Galapagos Top II: Island-Hopping Bartolomé, North Seymour & Pinzón from Puerto Ayora

Puerto Ayora•easy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

5 days

Fitness Level

Suitable for travelers with basic mobility—short hikes (30–90 minutes), frequent boat transfers, and snorkeling require moderate stamina.

Overview

A five-day small-boat circuit from Puerto Ayora that hits Bartolomé, North Seymour and Pinzón—perfect for close-up wildlife encounters, volcanic landscapes, and snorkeling with reef sharks and turtles. Read on for what to expect and how to prepare.

5-Day Galapagos Top II: Island-Hopping Bartolomé, North Seymour & Pinzón from Puerto Ayora

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Date

Mon, Nov 24

Travelers

The first light of the day pours over the Itabaca Channel like a promise. You step from the quay of Puerto Ayora into a small fibreglass dinghy and feel the boat heel as the captain cuts through water that smells faintly of salt and guava. On this five-day circuit—which begins and ends in Santa Cruz—you carry a camera, a snorkeling mask, and a steady curiosity: each island offers a different chapter of Galápagos evolution.

Adventure Photos

5-Day Galapagos Top II: Island-Hopping Bartolomé, North Seymour & Pinzón from Puerto Ayora photo 1

Adventure Tips

Book early for optimal cabin space

This shared boat itinerary fills quickly—reserve at least 3–6 months ahead during high season to secure your preferred dates and join smaller groups.

Carry local currency for park fees

The Galápagos National Park entrance and the Ingala transit card are paid on arrival (cash preferred); keep small bills handy.

Bring or rent a wetsuit

Water temperatures can be cool for extended snorkeling—if you get cold easily, rent a 3mm wetsuit in Puerto Ayora.

Protect marine life with reef-safe sunscreen

Only reef-safe sunscreen is allowed to limit chemical damage to coral and marine organisms—apply well before entering the water.

Local Insights

Wildlife

Marine iguanas
Galápagos penguins

History

Puerto Ayora evolved from a small fishing settlement into the islands’ scientific and tourism center; the Charles Darwin Research Station has been pivotal in tortoise conservation since the 1960s.

Conservation

The Galápagos National Park enforces strict rules to protect fragile habitats—stick to trails, don’t feed wildlife, and use reef-safe sunscreen to reduce chemical impact.