Why are the Galapagos Islands a great place to celebrate romantic occasions?

Choosing the right place to celebrate our special occasions has always been important. Nowadays, as the world slowly drifts into a “new normal“, this is even more crucial than before. To plan a romantic escapade, wedding, or anniversary, the first thing you need to consider are secluded or remote destinations where you won’t have to face the much-dreaded crowds. Also, with fewer people around you and wide-open spaces, you’ll be more at ease than ever!

Why is Galapagos a great place to celebrate romantic occasions?

Choosing the right place to celebrate our special occasions has always been important. Nowadays, as the world slowly drifts into a “new normal“, this is even more crucial than before. To plan a romantic escapade, wedding, or anniversary, the first thing you need to consider are secluded or remote destinations where you won’t have to face the much-dreaded crowds. Also, with fewer people around you and wide-open spaces, you’ll be more at ease than ever!

ecuador romantic couples getaway

That is why Galapagos (and especially the Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel) is the perfect setting to celebrate a romantic occasion! In this remote haven, you’ll be surrounded by pristine nature and endemic fauna! Plus, our hotel has all the biosafety protocols you need to be safe while maintaining the quality of your experience!

Galapagos Archives - Page 3 of 8 - Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel in Puerto Ayora, Galapagos

Let’s answer this question by taking a look at the many options to explore the Islands. Below we’ll provide you with a very brief introduction to the Galapagos Islands, and then discuss options for land-based experiences, sea-based expeditions, and the best option overall: the award-winning Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel.

Introduction to the Galapagos Islands

As the world is inching its way toward the “new normal,” which looks more and more like the “old normal”, the enchanting Galapagos Islands and their people have opened their arms to welcome us back. For more specific in-depth information about the Islands, their wildlife, and the activities you can enjoy, please check out some of our other blog articles. In general, the diversity of wildlife in this archipelago is spread out across its eighteen main islands, three smaller islands, and 107 rocks and islets, which are among the most beautiful land formations in the world. Together with the crystalline blue waters, they will make for the most picturesque photos you will ever take! The wildlife itself has also been the subject of countless nature magazine covers and films. From the world-famous blue-footed boobies and their adorable courtship dance to the playful sea lion pups and the majestic but non-threatening Galapagos sharks, there is an immeasurable amount to see as each island has its own native and endemic species. Quite literally, no two islands are the same. There are so many activities to do to help us get closer to these amazing creatures and their beautiful homes, including guided photography walks, snorkeling with a staggering array of colorful fish, and other marine life or trips along the rugged shorelines of the islands on a paddleboard or in a zodiac. There is never a shortage of things to do!

A family selfie with a Galapagos Giant Tortoise

Land-based Experiences

Of all of those islands mentioned, only four are actually inhabited by humans. One, Floreana, is a fishing village of only about 100 people, and it’s not really a tourist attraction. The other three, Santa Cruz, San Cristobal and Isabela, are set up for tourism as well as serving as a fully functioning community for its residents.

Santa Cruz is the most populated island with approximately 20,000 inhabitants and is considered the financial center of the Islands. There is plenty to do and see here, including a visit to the renowned Charles Darwin Research Station. For a small donation, you can see scientists working to repopulate the tortoises of the other islands. There is even an exhibit of the world-famous Lonesome George and a complete whale skeleton! There are some farms within a 40-minute car/bus ride that you can visit that have dozens of the Santa Cruz giant tortoises roaming around freely. Santa Cruz is also home to the top-ranked Galapagos Islands Lodge: the Finch Bay Hotel, one of the archipelago’s only beachfront Galapagos hotels. There are other hotels on the island from all different categories and price ranges, but there’s no doubt that the Finch Bay Hotel is your best option. Getting to Santa Cruz is fairly easy since there is an airport with flights to and from Mainland Ecuador lying on the northern edge of the island. Traveling from Santa Cruz to the other populated Islands is also fairly easy as Isabela is a two-and-a-half-hour boat ride to the west and San Cristobal is two hours to the east. There are also multiple daily excursions offered by dozens of tour operators. Interestingly enough, the Finch Bay Hotel has its own 20-passenger yacht, the Sea Lion, that offers multiple daily excursions to several fascinating destinations.

Lying on the western edge of the archipelago, Isabela is the largest island in the Galapagos. When looking at a map, it actually looks like a giant seahorse. With a population of close to 2,000 inhabitants, it is the third most populated island in the archipelago. Puerto Villamil is a very small town, so the options of places to stay there are somewhat limited. Most of the hotels seem to be on the opposite sides of the price spectrum as either cheap or expensive with not much to choose from in the middle. Isabela was actually formed by six shield volcanoes merging together, five of which are still active, making it one of the most active volcanic areas on earth. Isabela’s abundant bird, animal and marine life is staggering, and the island is home to more wild tortoises than anywhere else in the islands. Other notable species you might see include penguins, marine iguanas, Galapagos land iguanas, boobies, Galapagos hawks and many, many more. The west coast of Isabela in the Bolivar Channel is the best place in Galapagos if you’re interested in spotting whales and dolphins.

Despite its smaller population, San Cristobal is noted for being the political center of the Province of Galapagos. Like Santa Cruz, the island of San Cristobal has an airport that offering daily flights to and from mainland Ecuador. However, its position on the eastern-most edge of the archipelago makes it a little difficult to travel to the other islands. Most of its approximately 8,000 residents work in the government or in tourism or fishing. Popular sites near the town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno include the Cerro Tijeretas, a nesting colony for frigate birds, and a statue of Charles Darwin on the original site where he first landed in the Galápagos Islands. La Loberia, a colony of sea lions, is about ten minutes by bus from the town. Local boat tours also take visitors to two popular nearby sites. One of the most iconic land formations in the Galapagos, “Kicker Rock,” is the remains of a lava cone that is now split in two. Isla Lobos (“Sea Lion Island”) is also a nesting site for blue-footed boobies. The selection of Galapagos Islands lodges on San Cristobal is more varied than on Isabela, but not as much as on Santa Cruz.

Sea-based Expeditions

Staying on land is not the only way to experience these awe-inspiring islands. Of course, a sea-based expedition might be on your bucket list, and there are quite a few options. Several years ago, the Galapagos National Park Service noticed that there was an increasing number of tourists coming to the Islands, so they implemented regulations to protect this precious ecosystem. While limiting the number of vessels and tourists that can visit any one site, they included most of the islands as part of the Galapagos National Park sea-based excursions.

The Galapagos National park encompasses 97% of all of the land in the territory, including all of the area not inhabited by humans in the archipelago.

Many tour operators, including Metropolitan Touring, offer Expedition Cruises with 3-day, 5-day and 7-day options. Metropolitan Touring owns and operates three such expedition vessels: the Santa Cruz II, the Isabela II and La Pinta. Each one offers different passenger capacities, numbers of crewmembers, as well as the length of the cruise itself. What these three vessels have in common is that they are operated by experienced and knowledgeable captains, deck officers, helmsmen, seamen, Chief Engineers, machinists and zodiac drivers who make sure that each and every person on board is completely safe and secure during the cruise. The hotel departments of all three are led by confident and experienced Hotel Managers and their eager-to-please staffs of chefs, stewards, waiters, dishwashers and bartenders who make sure each of your requests and desires are met. Each vessel also counts on an experienced Expedition Leader and their thoroughly-trained and fully knowledgeable staff of Certified Naturalist Guides who will answer every question you may have about the flora, fauna, geological history, and human history about the Islands as well as topics like photography, oceanography and astronomy.

If you can’t spend an entire week onboard a ship but still want to travel to other locations, local operators on all three of the islands also offer day cruises to the nearby islands, rocks and islets. One major difference is that the Finch Bay Hotel, a beachfront Galapagos hotel, has its own comfortable and spacious 20-passenger yacht, the Sea Lion, with its attentive and welcoming staff, and different activities on each daily itinerary to enjoy the nearby attractions.

Santa Cruz Island: Land and Sea—The Best of Both Worlds

Santa Cruz really offers the best of both worlds. The crown jewel of this particular piece of Paradise is the Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel. The Finch Bay has, without a doubt, the most ideal location of all hotels in the archipelago. Nestled on the island’s southern shores, this award-winning resort is just off Academy Bay, which is filled with colorful sailboats at anchor there. The Finch Bay, as the archipelago’s only beachfront Galapagos hotel, is right on Playa de los Alemanes, which can provide hours of sandcastle-building, tanning, and snorkeling. You will enjoy lots of activities in Galapagos for kids and adults of all ages. From here, you can enjoy a wide variety of fun-filled activities, such as Day Tours, including the daily excursions that you can take aboard the Sea Lion Yacht and the trips you can take to the island’s highlands to observe the Santa Cruz Giant Tortoises in their natural habitat. There are also day hikes you can take to some other stunning white-sand beaches, like Tortuga Bay, or if an adventurous option is more your taste, teenagers and young adults have an exciting option back at the hotel. By simply walking past the beach, you can reach a strikingly beautiful volcanic fissure that found its way to the ocean. Known as Las Grietas, this spectacular site is an amazing place to take a dip and marvel at its rock formations and tropical fish. Back at the hotel, fine cuisine can be enjoyed with indoor and outdoor dining options to savor succulent local and international dishes. A children’s menu is available as well as dishes specifically prepared to take dietary needs into account. Other extras include a tour of the hotel’s organic garden, known as Chakrita, and Ceviche cooking classes. Aside from the amazing food, other amenities offered by the Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel include the pool area and the Spa. The Spa offers an exercise room with all the necessary equipment for a nice workout. A massage or any of the other treatments, including a relaxing soak in a hot tub, can be an amazing way to recharge the batteries after a day of hiking through gorgeous otherworldly landscapes. The pool area also has a lot to offer besides a refreshing dip, including comfortable lounge chairs to catch some rays or read a good book. If a delicious cocktail and unique freshly prepared snacks is what you’re looking for, there is a well-stocked and well-served poolside bar.

In conclusion, the Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel is the best option for a vacation that offers daily tours of Galapagos National Park, with the flexibility of choosing land and sea alternatives. A trip to the Galapagos without visiting the National Park is just not worth it. The hotel itself has an Expedition leader on staff to organize all of your activities. Let’s not forget that one of the recognitions this world-class resort has received is being one of the most Eco-friendly hotels in Latin America in order to protect this UNESCO World Heritage site. With everything it offers, you can do it all!

Isabel Espinoza

There’s always so much to see and do in the Galapagos Islands! This natural paradise is teeming with incredible landscapes, beaches, vegetation, animals, and so much more! Nevertheless, most of the breathtaking action happens out there, in the Galapagos National Park!

To access the park, you need to be accompanied by a certified naturalist guide at all times during your excursions, which gives you only two options to explore it: staying at one of the multiple expedition vessels that sail in the archipelago, or book a day tour! Each one of these options has its specific perks and advantages!

We invite you to follow along in this blog to find out how to experience this magical paradise and how a Galapagos land-based itinerary might be precisely what you need!

Exterior of the Finch Bay, Galapagos Islands — A spectacular view of the exterior of the Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel

How to Experience the Galapagos Option #1: A sea-based Galapagos tour with island stops

All islands in the Galapagos National Park are uninhabited to preserve their pristine and unique environment and fauna, so there’s no other way to stay overnight apart from an expedition vessel. This option instantly grants you access to more visitor sites in the Galapagos National Park, species, islands, and the company of an expert guide that will follow you along the whole way. Every day, you’ll disembark on a different island where you’ll hike, enjoy fascinating aquatic activities, and learn more about this paradise. It’s worth noting that a sea-based option grant guests the opportunity to visit some places that can’t be accessed by staying on land (due to how far away certain visitor sites are).

This option allows you to go further than any day tour can take you. Still, if you’re prone to seasickness (please note: there are “seasickness proof” cruises in the archipelago that help abate this symptom) or you just simply wish to enjoy a more relaxed stay, you can always opt for a Galapagos land-based tour!

All-in-all, the best part about having these two options is the fact that guests can link them together if they wish!

How to Experience the Galapagos Option #2: A Galapagos land-based tour

Staying on land is an option that caters to those more interested in experiencing the archipelago at their own pace. Picture this: you’re lounging near the pool, with an astonishing view of the ocean, with a nice drink in hand, before heading into town to soak in the local island life! You can choose how you fill your Galapagos land-based itinerary!

You can book Day Tours to nearby islands in the Galapagos National Park all over town, but if you can spare the challenging task of comparing perks, prices, and all the back and forth, do it! Some hotels in the Galapagos Islands work with third-party providers to offer their guests these services.

At the Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel, we own and operate a private yacht, the Sea Lion. With room for only 20 lucky guests, multiple guides for intimate excursion groups, and comfortable spaces, you’ll never feel cramped! Plus, we serve hot meals (not many day tour yachts do this), have the necessary equipment for you to snorkel or do some coastal exploration. Plus, both our hotel and yacht have the strictest safety protocols for you to enjoy at ease!

If you stay with us, you’ll see that ours is an expedition-focused accommodation! Located in a pedestrian-only neighborhood, the Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel sits right in front of the secluded “Los Alemanes” beach (we’re the only hotel with direct access to the beach), which allows our guests to enjoy the beach at any hour of the day! Plus, you won’t have to face crowds at the hotel’s social areas since our hotel has only 27 rooms and plenty of wide-open spaces! We also have a wonderful spa, gym, and spaces for yoga for you to prepare your body for the exploration activities you’ll enjoy or to relax afterward!

We offer tours every day to the lovely islands of:

You just need to approach our Front Desk, and our Expedition Leader will take care of all the details, or you can book one of our programs that includes meals and day tours!

Explore our programs

Island-2-Island Hopping

Expand your horizons even further with this incredible option that grants guests the ability to fly from Santa Cruz Island all the way to the largest island of the archipelago that is Isabela. Add to the number of checkmarks that you’ve built up on your Galapagos BIG15 list of iconic species and revel in an even greater amount of majestic views by standing at the rim of one of the world’s largest craters!

Isabel Espinoza

Pristine waters, lush flora and fauna, unique wild and marine life, all make the Galapagos Islands one of the best snorkeling spots in the world.

Whether exploring the Galapagos Islands on your own or enjoying a stay with us, you’ll want this Galapagos snorkeling guide as your companion to ensure you take in all the islands have to offer.

Here we’ll share all you need to know about snorkeling in Galapagos and what awaits you in these crystalline waters.

Snorkeling in Galapagos: When to Visit

You can’t go wrong no matter what time of year you visit the Galapagos Islands!

The Hot Season is from December through May. Daily showers come and go with the sun breaking through providing some of the warmest days of the year. Temperatures range between 65 to 85 degrees.

Waters tend to be warmer, calmer, and clearer during the rainy season, making perfect conditions for snorkeling in the Galapagos.

The Dry Season runs from June through November. While there is little rain, skies are slightly overcast with cool temperatures ranging between 60 to 80 degrees.

Waters are cooler and a bit rougher due to the wind, but taking a dive is definitely worth it! Due to the rich underwater currents that visit the archipelago during these months, marine wildlife is much more active. A wetsuit is always an option so you can still comfortably enjoy Galapagos snorkeling! Enjoy this aquatic activitie in any of our Galapagos vacation package.

Day Tours to the Best Snorkeling Spots

One of the best ways to experience snorkeling in the Galapagos, if you don’t want to hop aboard an expedition vessel, is by booking a day tour! At Finch Bay, we’re the proud owners and operators of the Sea Lion Yacht. Here, we offer exclusive Day Tours to some of the most precious central islands of the Galapagos National Park.

Whether you are visiting the islands as part of a cruise or staying on the island, a Day Tour option provides a convenient, private, and curated snorkeling experience to the best snorkeling spots in the Archipelago.

These day tours are limited to only twenty guests and provide the expertise of certified naturalists and guides for your snorkeling and land excursions. With us, all snorkeling equipment, towels, and lunch are provided, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty and wonder of the islands.

The following is a list of islands within the Galapagos National Park that you can access via Day Tours and the animals you’ll most likely encounter while snorkeling.

Plan your stay or book a Day Tour!

Bartolome Island

Read more about our Day Tour to Bartolome Island

This uninhabited island boasts one of the most famous landmarks of the Galapagos, Pinnacle Rock. This breathtaking obelisk jutting out of the sea is not only a must-see wonder but also a spectacular snorkeling spot.

See below for a few of the amazing species you will likely encounter on your snorkeling excursion.

Galapagos Penguin

You’ll be entertained by these small penguins as they slip, slide and waddle along the coasts of the island.

The Galapagos penguin is the only penguin to live north of the equator and is uniquely adapted for this tropical existence. Snorkeling will let you observe them zipping through the water as they hunt and play.

The Galapagos penguin can be seen year-round, but if you wish to observe nesting season, this occurs between May through January.

Galapagos penguin swimming in Bartolome Island, Galapagos — Take a plunge and join these little fellows as they swim across the clear Galapagos’ water!

Galapagos Sea Lion

The Galapagos sea lion is the most common mammal you will see on your visit to the islands. Nevertheless, while snorkeling, you’ll be able to get a glimpse at the playful nature of these creatures as they play in the water, and dive for sardines.

You can see Galapagos sea lions all year, but a particular treat is seeing baby sea lion pups from July to November.

Sea Lion swimming at North Seymour Island — Playful and cute: Sea Lions are the best companions when it comes to snorkeling.

White Tipped Reef Shark

Luckily for snorkelers, the white-tipped reef shark prefers shallow waters and is known to be docile with humans.

You’ll find these beautiful creatures peacefully swimming about and lurking in crevices all year round.

South Plaza Island

Read more about our Day Tour to South Plaza Island

South Plaza Island is one of the smallest islands but is known for having the most vibrantly colored seasonal flora and fauna. Here you’ll discover cactus forests, iguanas, sea lion colonies, and numerous bird species.

Marine Iguanas

The Galapagos Islands is the only place in the entire world that you will see the remarkable marine iguana. This species is the only lizard with aquatic adaptations for swimming and foraging in the sea.

While snorkeling, you’re likely to see these marvelous creatures sunbathing on rocks and enjoying a meal of algae. Marine iguanas are very active year-round and mate between January and March.

Galapagos Marine Iguanas basking in the sun — One way to spot Marine Iguanas in Galapagos is to check their colors. Iguanas with yellow or eggshell-colored skin enjoy the comforts of life on land. Meanwhile, darker iguanas, those who resemble Godzilla, are exactly what you were looking for!

King Angelfish

The king angelfish is a striking sight for snorkelers to see. Its oblong, flat body is a darker blue with markings of electric blue, orange, bright yellow, and white.

The angelfish spends its time year-round grazing throughout the reefs, feeding on seaweed, algae, sea urchins, and sponges. These fish can be seen swimming alone, in pairs, and even in schools of fish.

North Seymour Island and Bachas Beach

North Seymour Island and Las Bachas Beach are breathtaking spots to add to your Galapagos snorkeling itinerary. North Seymour Island is bursting with unique marine and land creatures including the iconic blue-footed booby.

The white sands of Bachas Beach are only accessible by dinghy but it is well worth the journey. Nearby lagoons are home to vibrant pink flamingos while the calm surrounding waters are a vital egg-laying site for the Galapagos green sea turtle.

Blue-Footed Booby

The blue-footed booby is a white and brown plumed bird with distinctive bright blue feet. The mating dance of this species is a memorable event as the male takes a high stepping dance around the female, hoping she’ll be wooed by his brilliant blue feet.

The best time to glimpse this dance is from June through August as they take to land for mating and breeding. It’s not rare that, while snorkeling in the Galapagos Islands, you’ll see their adorable feet moving like fins while they sit above the water.

Galapagos Green Sea Turtle

These impressive creatures can be widely seen throughout the Galapagos Islands where they come to lay their eggs. Snorkeling next to these majestic creatures is a once in a lifetime experience as they serenely swim through the waters and feed on seagrass.

The Galapagos green sea turtle can be seen year-round. Pregnant females can be seen on shorelines at night between December through March preparing to lay their eggs.

Santa Fe Island

Read more about our Day Tour to Santa Fe Island

Believed to have been formed over 4 million years ago, Sante Fe Island is thought to be the oldest island in the archipelago.

Snorkeling in the tranquil, turquoise waters of the island shore is an experience not to be missed. Expect to encounter sea lions, rays, sea turtles, and exotic fish only found in the waters surrounding the Galapagos Islands.

Galapagos Rays

Spotting Galapagos rays is a true highlight you’ll want your underwater camera for. Over fifteen unique species of rays stealthily swim through these waters.

From the leaping manta ray to the spotted eagle ray, all are spectacular to watch glide across the ocean floor.

While rays are seen year-round, the best time to see them is during the rainy season from December through May as the waters are warmer and clearer.

Book Your Galapagos Snorkeling Tour Today!

If you’re looking for the ultimate snorkeling in Galapagos Island experience, plan a stay at the Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel. Let our experts curate your adventure to some of the best snorkeling spots in the Galapagos Islands aboard our private yacht.

The secluded, beachfront Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel offers a full-service restaurant and spa with a dedication to sustainable practices and conservation!

From unforgettable land and sea adventures to relaxation and rejuvenation, The Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel has it all.

Plan your stay or book a Day Tour!

Isabel Espinoza

As the world starts to adjust to a new normality, we have adapted the way we do most of our everyday activities. Today, after 67 years of leading the tourism industry in Ecuador and South America, we face our biggest challenge yet: restarting operations while maintaining both our client's and staff's health and safety.

Isabel Espinoza

Love can come in many ways, shapes, and forms, but most of all, we want to be able to show our loved ones, no matter the occasion, just how much they mean to us with romantic gestures and declarations of love. A quick getaway or romantic few weeks at the Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel, located in one of the most secluded places in the world, will catapult your plan to the stars, undoubtedly surpassing your expectations of a perfect romantic occasion. At the Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel, we don’t have a favorite romantic event- we celebrate them all! Our main goal is to make all your dreams come true in the perfect and intimate setting of love.

At the Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel, we specialize in:

Destination weddings
Honeymoons
Wedding anniversaries
Marriage proposals

So, what can we offer you? Our unique boutique hotel offers a personalized experience for every guest and, if your dream isn’t on our list of activities, ask one of our staff members or put in a special request. We’ll go above and beyond all expectations to create your perfect getaway – no matter the occasion.

I want the most romantic honeymoon package!

What makes the Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel the perfect place to celebrate a romantic occasion?

Easy! Our exceptional facilities, pristine and remote location, premium service, and wide-ranging list of available activities, such as day tours on our private yacht, are all at your disposal for every occasion. Plus, we have all the biosafety protocols to ensure you’ll have a pleasant and safe stay!

Note: We have also designed a Galapagos Honeymoon Package! It includes all of our best activities, including a couple’s massage, a day tour adventure on the Sea Lion Yacht, and exquisite meals in our top-class restaurant!

Romantic Location

Romantic strolls in secluded beaches are a must if you visit the Galapagos Islands with your partner!

Of course, the Galapagos Islands are one of the most enchanting places in the world, but the Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel is ideally situated for romance. It is a secluded, and private hotel tucked away in a pedestrian-only neighborhood of Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island. In fact, it’s so exclusive that guests have to cross the bay in the hotel’s private water taxi to get there! Once at the hotel, guests can step from the hotel’s pool area directly onto the sandy white beach of Playa de Los Alemanes. The soft sound of lapping waves is heard throughout the hotel, creating the perfect dreamy atmosphere.

Are you interested in exploring the ultimate secluded destination?

Explore our programs!

Intimate Hotel

Couple celebrating a romantic occasion in the Galapagos Islands — Share unforgettable moments with your partner in our dreamy facilities!

Our luxurious rooms have everything any romantic occasion could ask for. With a total of only 27 rooms available in the entire hotel, everything about it has been designed to be personalized and exclusive. The wooden walkways among the mangroves, the small duck pond surrounded by cacti, and the hotel’s elegant architecture show just how spectacular and premium this hotel is. The romance of Finch Bay truly comes to light when you enter the lounge and dining room area. The soft white curtains flutter in the breeze, and plush furniture mixed with accents of color and wicker pieces allow guests to relax in an open but private setting.

Rooms

Each of our rooms has both private indoor and outdoor spaces where guests can relax in hammocks on their spacious balconies. Each room is furnished with the finest linens, furniture, and cozy design. Our six Finch Bay suites have views looking directly over the ocean along with a private balcony. These rooms are perfect for a wedding night or anniversary.

Bar and Pool Area

Pool area at the Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel — We’re the only beachfront hotel in Puerto Ayora

Our intimate open-air bar is perfect for all occasions, from small celebrations to service for an intimate wedding. Each cocktail has been specifically crafted to encompass the nostalgia and romance of the Galapagos archipelago into unique and surprising drinks. Our friendly bartenders can help you order a meal or snack while you watch the sunset – the perfect way to end a perfect day!

The pool area was recently renovated in 2019 and is open exclusively to guests. You can enjoy the lounge chairs out in the sun or, if you prefer some shade, the ample pergola offers both intimacy and relaxation. The pergola is the perfect place for a social occasion such as a wedding.

Around our pool area are a few intimate outdoor tables where you can dine by candlelight with the sound of the waves crashing in the distance. Not surprisingly, many proposals have been organized and carried out here to perfection.

Spa

Relax and unwind in the beautiful Spa area! A perfect occasion to share with your couple — Relax and unwind in the beautiful Spa area!

Our recently built spa is hidden along a mangrove-sheltered path in a secluded spot away from other guests and the hotel, which makes it a great place to relax with your loved one in a couple’s massage or by enjoying one of our outdoor hot tubs. The hot tubs must be reserved at the front desk, which means that only you and your party will be able to relax in private.

Dining Area

The dining area allows guests to enjoy an intimate meal without interruption from other guests. The extensive menu includes the incredible flavors of the islands, a twist of the Ecuadorian cuisine, and a touch of home. Every meal is lovingly prepared to ensure your romantic getaway exceeds every expectation.

Private yacht – Sea Lion

Why is Galapagos a great place to celebrate romantic occasions? For the intimacy and the incredible places you will visit with your couple — Our intimate yacht is the perfect vessel to both explore the natural beauty of the Galapagos Islands and create amazing memories with your partner!

The Sea Lion yacht is available for Finch Bay guests only, making the onboard experience extremely personable and luxurious. A day tour on our private yacht is the perfect opportunity for spectacular wedding photos or a romantic cruise in the Galapagos archipelago while enjoying a glass of wine in the cozy rooftop seating area or lounging on the sun chairs on the front of the vessel. The staff is both highly trained and highly experienced, ensuring that you and your group will have the best possible experience on board. The yacht is only able to hold 20 people, meaning their attention is always focused on you.

Activities

Enjoy the best food in the Galapagos Islands with your couple — We offer our guests ceviche cooking lessons (or cocktail lessons) they can share with their significant other!

The Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel is more than just a hotel – it’s an experience. There are many activities that you can enjoy depending on how you want to spend your romantic occasion. You can enjoy a ceviche cooking class with one of our head chefs or, if you prefer something a little more active, you can go kayaking or paddleboarding around the bay. You can even enjoy a cocktail-making class with one of our expert bartenders. Each activity can be carefully modified to make your romantic occasion all about you and your partner.

We also pride ourselves on our exceptional service in every area of the hotel. Even if you don’t see your desired activity on our website or want to plan something special for your loved one, the staff are willing and excited to help you.

Do you want a destination wedding? Contact us! Would you like to arrange a surprise beachside proposal? Send us an email! Every facet of our hotel is designed to provide you with the best and most romantic experience that you will find in the Galapagos Islands. Don’t hesitate to contact us with your dreams and desires. Let us help you make your most romantic aspirations come true!

Book your romantic package in Galapagos!

Isabel Espinoza

manzanillo-galapagos-islands-giant-tortoises-1200x675.jpg

The Galapagos Islands offer endless opportunities to see incredible things and visit fascinating places, which is why we often want to make the most of our visit to these Enchanted Isles. The vast Marine Reserve is very alluring to any explorer, but land-based tours can provide an experience just as exquisite, and are more accessible to everyone. How to sort through all the options and get only the best? Opt for the one place that combines all land exploration alternatives into carefully curated-programs: an Expedition Hotel.

If the hotel you’re staying at can arrange all the best land activities for you and put them together in an itinerary tailored to your preferences, you can just wake up every day and go straight to exploring, confident that you’ll truly experience this singular archipelago. This way, you won’t have to spend precious vacation time looking for deals in town, which not only will cover only so much, but do not bear the quality seal of an Expedition Hotel.

A land-based holiday at the luxurious Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel offers both unparalleled accommodation with the best service on the islands, and the best Galapagos day tours to the most fauna-populated visitor points on our very own private yacht -the Sea Lion. It comes complete with our five-star crew, all of the amenities (including snorkeling gear), a full buffet lunch, and comfortable sofa chairs everywhere. You can wake up at the Finch Bay, have an exceptional breakfast, and then meet up with your personal bilingual guide to go on your daily adventure. The Sea Lion Yacht day tours take you to Bartolome Island, North Seymour Island, South Plaza Island, and Santa Fe Island. Each one offers different Galapagos wildlife and an otherworldly experience.

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The Islands

Bartolome Island is depicted in every iconic photo of the Galapagos Islands, showing the rising barren peak of Pinnacle Rock and a magnificent overview of the islands. Rising spectacularly from the depths of the crystalline waters right off the edge of Bartolome, Pinnacle Rock is a majestic host to the endemic Galapagos penguins, which huddle along the jagged volcanic rocks at its base. If you decide to go snorkeling, the marine life is breathtaking and, if you’re lucky, the penguins will put on a show for you as they duck in and out of the volcanic reef chasing enormous schools of fish. Overhead, you may see a Galapagos hawk, magnificent and great frigatebirds, or a blue-footed booby, as they search for food.

North Seymour Island is, quite literally, every bird watchers’ dream. The magnificent and great frigatebirds, along with blue-footed and Nazca boobies, instantly greet you as you step off the panga (dinghy) onto the island, screaming overhead. The walking trail takes you over the rocky terrain, where, around every corner, a different Galapagos endemic animal will surprise you; maybe a bird nesting in the shrubby trees or relaxing in the shade under towering cactuses. You’ll be surprised by coquettish Galapagos land iguanas munching on a prickly pear or the male magnificent frigatebirds showing off their bulging red throat pouches to the females flying overhead. The coastal hike ends at a sandy beach complimented by turquoise waters, where Galapagos sea lions gather alongside the occasional sunbathing marine iguana.

South Plaza Island is a small wind-swept island that seems like it was placed on Earth specifically for the Galapagos land iguanas. The sights mainly include Prickly Pear Cactuses and small lava lizards bounding between lava rocks. But the real bosses are the land iguanas, who defend their territory fiercely. The island gently rises and eventually reveals a sudden drop into the roaring sea below, where countless seabirds, including Nazca and blue-footed boobies, hang out. They are carried through the sky by the strong winds as they duck and dive for food. Lazy Galapagos sea lions sun themselves along the edges of plunging cliffs -how on earth did they get there? South Plaza Island is also a great place to see the conservation efforts that involve cactus planting, reminding us that we are in a national park paradise.

Santa Fe Island is the only one where you can see the unique and endemic Santa Fe land iguana, so it’s not an island to miss. The wet landing on the sandy beach is instantly notable for the Galapagos sea lions who sun themselves on the beach. This is the perfect island to get a close-up photo of the sea lions or go snorkeling off the pearly white beach. And, like most of the islands in Galapagos, endemic birds such as frigatebirds, the Galapagos hawk, and blue-footed boobies are permanent fixtures.

Remember that staying in Santa Cruz Island at the Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel also offers you the chance to see many fascinating visitor sites on Santa Cruz: The highlands, where you can see the incredible Galapagos giant tortoises; the pristine Tortuga Bay, where you can kayak with turtles and sunbathe on the stunning beach; and the Darwin Foundation. You can do this all while returning to an exquisite location to rest and feast in the afternoons and evenings.

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Each Galapagos Day Tour has been specifically designed to give you the opportunity to see the 11 land-based animals on the Galapagos BIG15 List and a few more.

The Wildlife

Blue-footed booby

The blue-footed booby looks like an oversized duck with bright blue feet. Their intricate foot-stepping mating rituals and amazing coloring make them the center of attention on any island. They are usually seen in pairs with their bills down and tails up, facing each other and prancing meticulously with their blue feet. In contrast, their fuzzy white chicks, who often look too big to still be at home, are usually seen huddling in their parents’ mounded nests that are characteristically identified by the ring of white guano around them.

You can find blue-footed boobies on our North Seymour, Bartolome, South Plaza, and Santa Fe Island tours.

Nazca Booby

The Nazca booby is one of the largest boobies in the world and has naturally selected to be rid of the comical colored feet of its cousins. It is often seen nesting on cliffs and is easily identified by its long, bright-yellow beak together with its black and white feathers.

You can spot the Nazca booby on our North Seymour and South Plaza Island tours.

Marine Iguana

Make sure you look carefully at the jet-black volcanic rocks lining the beaches. With a bit of luck, you’ll see a statuesque, dark, oversized crested lizard staring back at you. As they can only handle 30-40 minutes in the cool waters, they spend most of their time sunbathing in the hot equatorial sun. And although they look unperturbed, these non-vocalizing reptiles have learned to recognize the mockingbirds’ alarm cry to signal a hawk approaching and always scuttle to safety.

Some have learned to coexist with their terrestrial cousins and have even bred hybrid iguanas that are characterized by their lightly striped skin.

You will see the marine iguana on our North Seymour, Bartolome, South Plaza, and Santa Fe Island tours.

Land Iguana

Under the shade of the Prickly Pear cacti, the yellowish, bulbous land iguanas wait for the drop of a prickly pear. Its spines are no competition for their tough skin, and its juicy flesh is essential for their hydration and survival. Although these creatures appear to be unlikely ornamental decorations, if you approach them, they’ll step out as if to defend their territory when necessary.

The Galapagos land iguana can be seen on our North Seymour and South Plaza Island tours.

Galapagos Sea Lion

Sea lions have become the mischievous puppies of the islands, and are always ready to entertain at every boat dock, beach and fish market. They can be found relaxing on park benches or blocking ramps leading to docks. They have no qualms about mixing with the human population and competing for attention. These grey, smooth-skinned mammals enjoy sardines, but as committed piscivores, they enjoy other water-living creatures such as crustaceans and octopus.

Galapagos sea lions can be seen on our North Seymour, Bartolome, South Plaza, and Santa Fe Island tours.

Great and Magnificent Frigatebirds

The most impressive feature of the frigatebirds is the enlarged red throat pouches that the males have to contend with during mating season. Sitting in the shrubbery with their beaks pointed straight up, they look like they have been stuffed into an uncomfortable Christmas turtleneck and are just itching to take it off, but only a suitable female partner can do this. Their young ones are raised in stick nests built along rocky ledges and trees. They are incubated and cared for by both parents.

You can observe the Great and Magnificent Frigatebirds on our North Seymour, Bartolome, South Plaza, and Santa Fe Island tours.

Galapagos Penguin

These little guys are both cautious and curious about the humans that come and visit them every day. As one of the smallest penguins in the world, their presence can be hard to detect as they are normally found huddled among the islands’ volcanic rocks to protect themselves from the strong sun rays. However, they can usually be seen relaxing in pairs at the shaded water’s edge. The best way to interact with them is to snorkel as they duck and dive among the enormous schools of fish found in the Galapagos’ crystalline waters.

You can see the Galapagos penguin on our Bartolome Island tour.

Galapagos Hawk

The hawk lords over the Galapagos Islands from the sky. Surprisingly, this carnivorous bird differs in size and coloring from island to island but is generally quite stocky and dark brown. It loves to feed on invertebrates such as locusts but won’t pass up the opportunity to snatch a turtle hatchling or baby iguana. They are the only diurnal raptor in Galapagos Islands (the only daytime hunter), so they don’t have a lot of competition. Even so, the Galapagos Hawk population remains small, and scientists are still trying to figure out why.

You will find the Galapagos hawk on our Bartolome and Santa Fe Island tours.

Santa Fe Land Iguana

The Santa Fe land iguana can only be found on Santa Fe Island and is easily recognizable by its pale-yellow hide. Its dorsal spines are larger, and its long-tapered snout is more pronounced. They can be up to 3 feet long and, interestingly enough, they contribute to the general wellbeing of enormous Opuntia Cacti found on the island –as the iguanas feed on their lowest hanging fruit, it forces the cacti to grow taller!

You can find the Santa Fe land iguana on our Santa Fe Island tour.

Galapagos Fur Seal

At first glance, the fur seal can be hard to distinguish from its larger cousin, the sea lion. However, if you look close enough, you’ll see that it has a small bear-like face with close-set eyes and wingnut ears that stick out from its head –dead giveaways of the fur seal! Their thick coat means they don’t have to sunbathe as much as their sea lion cousins, and while their enlarged front flippers may look somewhat comical, they pay them in good stead for catching fish. They prefer the few shady beaches in the archipelago and more private coastlines.

The Galapagos fur seal can be found on our North Seymour Island tour.

American Flamingos

The gorgeous bright color of the flamingos in the Galapagos strongly contrasts against the briny marshlands that they frequent. Their stalk-like legs protect them from any danger as their powerful beak constantly forages and stirs up their favorite invertebrates and algae. They can often be seen marching up and down the edges of saltwater ponds, but they aren’t practicing for band camp. Instead, this is their mating ritual: if successful, a female will simply follow her chosen male. The only inelegant thing about them is their loud goose-like honk.

You can find the American flamingo on our North Seymour Island tour.

Each Galapagos Day Tour offers unique and astonishing sights that simply never disappoint. Whether it’s the scenery, underwater world, or close interactions with the many endemic species that make the Galapagos Islands their home, each of our packages and day tours is designed to ensure you experience the archipelago to its fullest. We invite you to explore our day tour options to find out which ones suit you.

Remember: The Galapagos Islands aren’t a zoo but rather a National Park. We recommend you book more than one day tour to ensure you enjoy every Galapagos species that you want to tick off your must-see list!

Are you interested in exploring the ultimate secluded destination?

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Isabel Espinoza

The Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel was presented with the title of World’s Leading Green Hotel for 2019 by the World Travel Awards™ at their 26^th annual ceremony, held earlier this month on December 3^rd. The WTA recognizes and praises excellence in the tourism industry and to be a garden green hotel.

Located in the center of the archipelago, on the island of Santa Cruz, the Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel was honored for its environmentally responsible practices and sustainable tourism philosophies. For this Galapagos-based hotel, the most important thing is to preserve the pristine quality of the islands while sharing the enchantment and beauty of this place with travelers from all over the world.

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Hotel Manager Javier Gómez says, “Our staff is honored to have received this award. It is a reflection of the dedication and love that our team demonstrates every day of the year, and it shows our commitment to the unique people and ecosystems of the Galapagos Islands.”

What makes the Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel a Green Hotel?

Among the hotel’s responsible practices is the efficient handling of electricity. Finch Bay has incorporated the use of solar panels, LED lighting, and motion sensors. These changes were implemented in the wake of an energy audit conducted with Ecuador’s Ministry of Energy.

Additional energy-saving measures include encouraging guests to use lights and air conditioning units moderately. By limiting the amount of electricity needed for these two elements, the energy generated by the hotel’s solar panels can cover up to 70% of what is required to heat the hotel’s water.

Another one of Finch Bay’s responsible practices includes avoiding the use of plastic. To date, plastic has been almost entirely eliminated from every process at the hotel. For example, the property provides guests with reusable water bottles and doesn’t carry plastic-bottled beverages in their restaurant.

Chakrita: Finch Bay's organic vegetable garden — Also, Finch Bay has been able to greatly reduce the use of plastic in their kitchen and dining room. Their food is not available to go and they do not use disposable plates or flatware.

What is the Finch Bay Hotel’s commitment to the Galapagos Islands?

In order to support the local economy and the responsible consumption of organic products, the hotel makes use of providers based in the Galapagos Islands. Additionally, a fair amount of the fruit, vegetables, and other ingredients used in the Finch Bay’s kitchen are grown in the hotel’s very own organic garden.

Everyone who works at the hotel is a resident of the Galapagos Islands. As such, they share in the philosophy and commitment that distinguishes the Finch Bay Hotel as one of the best hotels in the Galapagos Islands..

For example, each morning, the hotel staff comb the Playa de los Alemanes beach, located just in front of the property, and collect any trash they find. The hotel personnel has also planted over 500 mangrove trees in the surrounding areas in an effort to promote care for the environment and to conserve the beauty of this fragile ecosystem.

If you wish to learn more about the World’s Leading Green Hotel for 2019, we invite you to visit the website.

Are you interested in exploring the ultimate secluded destination?

Book now with us!

José Ayerve

This Day Tour is offered on Wednesdays* and Fridays.*

*Please note: This blog will examine the Wednesdays schedule of this Day Tour. Approximate travel times and schedules stay roughly the same for both days, the only difference being that Wednesday schedules return directly to Puerto Ayora (arrival time approx. 4:20 p.m.) while Friday schedules return to Itabaca Channel, followed by a bus transfer to Puerto Ayora (arrival time approx. 4:00 p.m.).

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There are many different ways one can go about visiting the Galapagos Islands, and two of the biggest ways are aboard a Galapagos cruise that sails on designated itineraries or a land-based approach that allows you to stay a hotel on the islands and create your own agenda. The Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel is one such example of the latter option, offering an excellent choice for those who prefer to stay on land for the majority their time in the Galapagos while still being able to craft their day as they see fit.

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Our hotel is all about giving our guests access to adventurous and fulfilling activities that allow them to make the most of their time in this once-in-a-lifetime destination. One such activity that we are proud to offer is the Daily Tour aboard our Sea Lion Yacht, which takes our guests to exciting, nearby islands that are part of the Galapagos National Park. In this blog, we invite you to along for one such journey as we examine what a Sea Lion Yacht Day Tour of South Plaza Island is like.

First stop: Punta Carrión!

Rise and shine for an exciting day of exploration! Breakfast will be ready at 6:30 a.m., providing you with ample time to enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet before departing from the hotel. After you’ve eaten, grab all your essentials (camera, hat, sunscreen, etc.) and get ready to head out from the hotel at approximately 8:15 a.m.! It’s around that time we’ll begin heading to the town of Puerto Ayora, which is where we’ll hop aboard a transfer bus that will take us on a 45-minute journey up and over the island of Santa Cruz to the Itabaca Channel. Once at the Channel, we will board the Sea Lion Yacht.

From the Itabaca Channel we’ll begin heading to our first stop along the way (Punta Carrion), with a sailing time of approximately 15 minutes. Once we arrive at Punta Carrion at around 10:10 a.m., we’ll put on our snorkeling gear and jump in the water to begin our snorkeling activity that will last a little under an hour. Punta Carrion is a small bay that allows you to see a variety of fish, rays, and possibly even whitetip reef sharks!

South Plaza Island Awaits!

Following that, we’ll get back on board the Sea Lion Yacht and continue on our way to South Plaza, arriving at approximately 12:05 p.m. Once at South Plaza, we’ll disembark from the Sea Lion Yacht and take a small dinghy (panga) boat to the edge of South Plaza, where we’ll perform a Dry Landing to disembark from the panga. Once we’re on South Plaza Island, we’ll begin our walking excursion.

Trails at South Plaza Island in the Galapagos

South Plaza is the southern half of two small crescent-shaped islands, both of which lie just a few hundred meters off the eastern coast of Santa Cruz Island. The northern island (aptly named North Plaza) is used for scientific purposes only. South Plaza is one of the smallest islands in the archipelago, but don’t let size fool you – when it comes to flora and fauna, it is one of the richest islands in the archipelago. South Plaza is 426 feet (130 meters) long and is the result of an uplift of the oceanic floor, giving it a slanted tabletop quality.

Our walking excursion here makes for a colorful sight, too! The turquoise waters of the channel between both islands contrast brilliantly with the black lava rocks that frame their shorelines, these of which have been carpeted with green seaweed and are often peppered with fluorescent-orange Sally Lightfoot crabs. Further up the shore on South Plaza, a carpet of scarlet-colored sesuvium succulents serve as the groundcover for a grove of verdant, prickly-pear cactus. Yellow-gray land iguanas sit and crawl around under these cacti, waiting ever so patiently for their pears to drop and feast on them.

Cactus and succulents on South Plaza Island in the Galapagos

The trail we’ll take gradually heads up the slope of the island, leading us to the cliffs that overlook the ocean to the south, where swallow-tailed gulls nest. Red-billed tropicbirds, Nazca, and blue-footed boobies are also often found here, lazily gliding along the wind currents. This overlook also serves as a great place to occasionally spot large marine life, such as manta rays.

Cliffs at South Plaza Island in the Galapagos

As we walk along the trail that runs parallel to the edge of the cliffs, we’ll gradually begin to hear the sound of the surf as it rushes into and pounds an inlet over on the western corner of the island. It is at this inlet that we’ll come upon a colony of bachelor sea lions that have made this place their home. Fun fact: the unique, reflective sheen found on many of the rocks throughout South Plaza are the result of sea lions having rubbed against them over the course of time, polishing them with the oils of their fur.

Bachelor sea lion colony at South Plaza Island in the Galapagos

At South Plaza, you’ll most likely be able to check off up to 6 of our BIG15 list of iconic species in the Galapagos.

Land iguana at South Plaza Island in the Galapagos

At the end of the walking excursion, we’ll head back to the Sea Lion Yacht at around 2:00 p.m., where we’ll get to enjoy lunch as we admire the island we just visited from afar. At 2:40 p.m., we’ll begin heading back to the Puerto Ayora docks, a journey that will take approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes and see us arriving there at around 4:20 p.m. Once there, we’ll head back to the Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel.

Hours spent at South Plaza: approx. 12:00 p.m. to 2:40 p.m.

We hope you’ve enjoyed this wonderful Day Tour!

Keep in mind: Galapagos Day Tours are subject to change due to weather conditions, logistical reasons, guests’ safety and/or Galapagos National Park Regulations.

Ready to stay at the Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel and experience everything it has to offer? Get in touch with one of our Destination Experts, today!

Book this tour now!

Christopher Klassen

This tour is offered on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

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Visiting the Galapagos is, without a doubt, an experience that’s unlike anything else. Whether it’s aboard an Expedition Vessel or from a hotel on one of the inhabited islands, there’s a number of ways visitors can take advantage of all the exploration options that are available in the archipelago. If you hope to visit some of the most remote and faraway islands, then an Expedition Vessel is probably your best choice.

However, if you’re looking to manage your own time and schedule on the islands, then an Expedition Hotel is the best option for you! Tip: If you have more time in the archipelago, a combination of both an Expedition Vessel and Hotel is a great way to go! If you’re looking to stay on an island, then be sure to consider the Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel on Santa Cruz Island and create your own experience in the Galapagos!

At our Expedition Hotel, you’ll be able to organize your time in the Galapagos as you see fit! Choose from ticking off the majority of the most iconic species that make up our BIG15 list, enjoying a fascinating journey aboard our Sea Lion Yacht, or simply opting for one of our bundled Galapagos packages that we offer and let us take care of everything!

In the meantime, we invite you read on to find out what our Day Tour to Bartolome Island aboard our Sea Lion Yacht is like! Without a doubt, Bartolome is one of the most enigmatic and gorgeous islands to visit in the entire archipelago!

Bartolome Island: An out-of-this-world experience!

Time to experience a new adventure at the Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel! Rise and shine and start your day with a delicious buffet breakfast that will be served at 6:15 a.m. over at our restaurant. After that, we’ll head out from the hotel at around 7:00 a.m. to go to Puerto Ayora. Tip: Remember that, before departing from the hotel, you can ask for seasickness pills if need be.

After a short walk from the hotel, we’ll hop aboard the Finch Bay’s own water taxi to cross the small channel and disembark at the Puerto Ayora pier. In Puerto Ayora, at approximately 7:30 a.m., we’ll board the bus that will take us over to the Itabaca Channel, located on the northern end of Santa Cruz Island. The journey there lasts around 45 minutes, so relax and enjoy the ride and views as we zip past dense scalesia forests and rich farmlands that are found up in the highlands.

Highlands in Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos — Highlands of Santa Cruz island in Galapagos

Once we arrive at the Itabaca Channel, we’ll board a panga (dinghy) that will take us to the Sea Lion Yacht. At approximately 8:30 a.m. is when we’ll set sail to Bartolome Island! During the following two-hour journey to Bartolome, you’ll get to relax under the sun or admire the views and some of the marine life that swims along with us. Keep an eye out! Depending on the time of year, it’s possible that dolphins might swim alongside our yacht on the way there!

I want the best tour of Galapagos!

Bartolome is, without a doubt, one of the most impressive visitor sites in all of Galapagos. Its geography never fails to captivate the imagination of adventurers! This volcanic island has a length of approximately 4.6 square miles (1.2 square kilometers) and an elevation of 374 feet (114 meters). Walking along Bartolome Island will offer us an experience that’s simply out-of-this-world, thanks in large part to the wide gamut of colors that cover its terrain: vivid reds, oranges, greens, and blacks all blend together to create a mesmerizing landscape that’s fit for a postcard. The island’s name comes from Sir Bartholomew James Sullivan, a friend of Charles Darwin and Lieutenant aboard the HMS Beagle – the famous vessel that sailed through Galapagos waters back in 1835.

View from the highest point of Bartolome Island. — Enjoy a breathtaking view from the highest point of Bartolome Island!

Once we’ve arrived at the island, we’ll hop aboard the Sea Lion’s panga (dinghy) and head over to the shores of Bartolome to perform a Dry Landing at the base of a wooden walkway. It is here that we’ll begin our walk up the walkway and steps, passing along lookout points along the way that will allow us to soak in the surrounding scenery and vegetation that’s found on the island. Finally, once we reach the top of the stairs, we’ll reach the final viewpoint that offers one of the most jaw-dropping panoramic views in the entire archipelago.

After that, we’ll head back down the same walkway and steps to board our panga (dinghy) once again at approximately 12:15 p.m. This panga will take us on a nice and refreshing coastal exploration that will last around 30 minutes. Following this bit of coastal exploration, we’ll arrive at Sullivan Bay and disembark (Dry Landing) to explore this impressive lava field on foot.

Sullivan Bay at Santiago Island in Galapagos — Explore the dramatic geography of the archipelago!

After that, we’ll head back to the Sea Lion for a brief pit stop that will allow us to leave the majority of our belongings and change into our swimsuits. Once we’re ready, we’ll head out (approximately 1:20 p.m.) to explore one of the most iconic landmarks in all of Galapagos: the colossal Pinnacle Rock. It is here that we’ll have the chance to enjoy a close encounter with numerous different aquatic creatures in the archipelago as we go snorkeling. Colorful schools of fish, sea lions, and even whitetip reef sharks and Galapagos penguins can be occasionally spotted here!

At approximately 2:15 p.m. we’ll head back to the Sea Lion Yacht for lunch, at which point you’ll get to sit back, relax and enjoy the food and impressive views of Bartolome Island from the comfort of our lovely yacht. Following that, we’ll set sail back to Santa Cruz Island at approximately 3 p.m.

We hope you’ve enjoyed this wonderful Day Tour!

Keep in mind: Galapagos Day Tours are subject to change due to weather conditions, logistical reasons, guests’ safety and/or Galapagos National Park Regulations.

Ready to stay at the Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel and experience everything it has to offer? Get in touch with one of our Destination Experts, today!

Book this tour now!

Isabel Espinoza

This Day Tour is offered on:

Mondays:* Las Bachas, followed by North Seymour | Sundays*: North Seymour, followed by Las Bachas*

*Please note: This blog will examine the Sunday schedule of this Day Tour. Approximate travel times and schedules stay roughly the same for both days, albeit with the order switched.

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The Galapagos Islands can be visited in many ways, be it aboard an amazing Galapagos cruise that follows well-thought-out itineraries or through a land-based option. The latter option, such as the Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel, is the perfect choice for those prone to sea-sickness or who wish to have the freedom to manage their time as they see fit.

Explore our programs!

Our hotel makes it a point to provide our guests with access to activities that truly make this destination a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. A perfect example of this is found in the Daily Tour Options we offer aboard our Sea Lion Yacht, which takes our guests on day tours to fantastic, nearby islands. In this blog, we invite you to come along for the journey as we examine what a Day Tour of North Seymour and Las Bachas Beach is like.

First Stop: North Seymour Island

Rise and shine for an exciting day of exploration! At 6:30 a.m., a delicious breakfast buffet will be ready for you to enjoy. After you’ve eaten, grab your camera, hat, and sunscreen and be prepared to head out from the hotel at approximately 7:45 a.m.! From the hotel, we’ll head to the town of Puerto Ayora, where we’ll hop aboard a transfer bus that will then take us on a relaxing 45-minute journey up and over the island of Santa Cruz to the Itabaca Channel, where we will board the Sea Lion Yacht.

From the Itabaca Channel to North Seymour, our sailing time is approximately 45 minutes. We will arrive at the small yet gorgeous island of North Seymour at around 10:00 a.m., where we will hop aboard our panga (dinghy) to perform a Dry Landing and disembark.

North Seymour Island Coastline — Admiring the coastline of North Seymour Island.

As we begin our hiking excursion of the island, you will immediately notice that there is a difference between North Seymour and its neighboring big sister – Santa Cruz. The second one displays an uneven terrain, rolling hills, and highlands that are home to a very different kind of vegetation compared to that which grows by the coast. On the other hand, North Seymour resembles a relatively flat slab of terrain! It’s actually the result of underwater uplift rather than volcanic activity. That’s right – North Seymour was actually once ocean floor! There is no known reason for how or why this formation came to be, but it nevertheless became the perfectly flat setting for wildlife that it is today.

North Seymour hike in the Galapagos — Hiking at North Seymour Island guided by one of our Galapagos National Park Guide.

This island is packed with wildlife that surrounds visitors as they walk along the island’s trails. Prepare to be greeted by the lounging Galapagos sea lions and some of the most iconic Galapagos birds as they display their feathers and colors. In fact, North Seymour is home to some of the archipelago’s largest colonies of frigatebirds and blue-footed boobies! So birdwatchers, get ready for some serious bird action! If you’re lucky, you might stumble upon blue-footed boobies in the middle of their amusing courtship display.

Galapagos land iguana found at North Seymour Island — While exploring North Seymour, you’ll encounter this beautiful creature of the archipelago.

Harmoniously living in the same space, you will also be able to observe the endemic land iguana, as well as its aquatic relative – the only marine iguana in the world. You’ll also likely encounter the masked cousin of the blue-footed booby – the majestic Nazca booby.

At North Seymour, you’ll most likely be able to check off up to 7 out of 15 of our BIG15 list of iconic species in the Galapagos.

Hours spent at North Seymour: approx. 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Next Stop: Las Bachas Beach

At around 12:00 p.m., we’ll set sail and head over to Las Bachas Beach on Santa Cruz Island. This journey will take approximately 45 minutes. Once we arrive at Las Bachas Beach, we’ll perform a Wet Landing and disembark.

Las Bachas shoreline in the Galapagos Islands — Ready to be surprised by the wonders of Las Bachas!

After WWII, US military barges were beached and abandoned here. Locals referred to the beach as the barges beach, a name that gradually morphed into “las bachas” in Spanish. Today it is an important nesting area for the eastern Pacific green sea turtle. Located on the north shore of Santa Cruz Island, it is a glorious white beach, with several brackish lagoons only a few steps away from the sea. These lagoons are the feeding grounds of various wading birds, from stilts all the way to flamingos.

American Flamingos at Las Bachas Beach in the Galapagos — American flamingos are part of our BIG15 Group of iconic species.

Fantastic snorkeling, swimming, and/or simply enjoying the soft, white sand beach are some of the activities you can enjoy here.

Lunch will be ready and served at around 2:10 p.m., at which point we kindly invite guests to come back aboard the Sea Lion Yacht to enjoy their meal.

Hours spent at Las Bachas Beach: approx. 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Once we’ve wrapped up our experience here, we’ll set sail and head back to the Itabaca Channel, a journey which will take approximately 30 minutes. Once we’ve arrived at the channel, we’ll disembark and hop on the bus that will take us (a 45-minute journey) back to Puerto Ayora, from where we’ll head back to the Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel.

We hope you’ve enjoyed this wonderful Day Tour!

Keep in mind: Galapagos Day Tours are subject to change due to weather conditions, logistical reasons, guests’ safety and/or Galapagos National Park Regulations.

Ready to stay at the Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel and experience everything it has to offer? Get in touch with one of our Destination Experts, today!