Board the classic Isabela II for a focused five-day northeastern Galápagos route: giant tortoises, seabird colonies, snorkeling with marine iguanas, and secluded beaches. This expedition combines daily landings with guided naturalist briefings and onboard comforts.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The yacht slips away from Puerto Ayora at dawn and the ocean immediately takes a new cadence — playful swells, a steady gull chorus, and the bright, dry heat of the equator pressing against the deck. On day one you climb into the humid highlands of Santa Cruz, where giant tortoises move with deliberate curiosity, then board Isabela II and feel the islands redraw the horizon.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5 days
Fitness Level
Moderate endurance; able to walk 2–4 miles over uneven lava and sand and board zodiacs several times per day
Wildlife
History
Human activity shifted from whaling and settlement to scientific conservation; strict park protection has limited development since mid-20th century.
Conservation
Strict quarantine controls and visitor limits protect endemic species; use reef‑safe products, avoid bringing banned foods or organic material, and follow guide instructions to minimize impact.
Reserve your spot on the ISABELA II SEABIRD SANCTUARY EXPEDITION - NORTHEASTERN (Mon-Fri) today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring reef‑safe sunscreen and a hat
The equatorial sun is strong; choose mineral-based sunscreen to protect reefs and reapply frequently during on-deck time and snorkeling.
Travel light, pack smart
Airlines to the Galápagos enforce strict baggage limits; use soft-sided luggage and label everything to ease inter-island transfers.
Prepare for wet landings
Many shore visits are wet or uneven landings — wear quick-drying shoes with good grip and be ready to step into a zodiac.
Bring motion-sickness remedies
Open ocean crossings can be bumpy; take preventive medication or acupressure bands if you react to rolling swell.
Snorkel mask and fins
Having your own well-fitting mask and fins makes snorkeling clearer and more comfortable across multiple sites.
Reef‑safe sunscreen and sun hat
Protects skin and the fragile marine ecosystems under the strong equatorial sun.
Sturdy water shoes
Grip wet volcanic rock and protect feet during wet landings and beach hikes.
Light rain shell and midlayer
Cooler mornings and occasional spray benefit from a lightweight waterproof and a breathable warmth layer.