The Galapagos Islands Luxury included Cruise

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Overview

The Galapagos Islands Luxury included Cruise
Vilcabamba, Ecuador
Duration: 8 days
Group size: 1 - 8
So Local Tour Company image
So Local Tour Company

About this trip

Embark on an extraordinary luxury journey through the enchanting Galápagos Islands, where rare wildlife, pristine landscapes, and exceptional comfort come together aboard your elegant expedition yacht. Your adventure offers unforgettable encounters with the archipelago’s remarkable wildlife, including playful sea lions, colorful reef fish, land iguanas, lava lizards, mockingbirds, and Darwin’s famous finches.

Snorkel in crystal-clear waters, kayak or stand-up paddleboard along spectacular coastlines, and relax on breathtaking white-sand beaches surrounded by one of the world’s largest concentrations of sea lions. Explore the ancient landscapes of Santa Fe and Plaza Sur with expert-guided excursions, discovering dramatic volcanic formations, unique vegetation, and extraordinary wildlife along the way.

Between adventures, return to the comfort of your luxury yacht to enjoy exceptional dining, signature cocktails during Happy Hour, and relaxing evenings under the spectacular starlit skies of the Galápagos. Conclude your journey with a final exploration of Santa Cruz Island’s lush highlands and the remarkable Los Gemelos twin craters before departing with unforgettable memories of one of the world’s most exclusive and extraordinary natural destinations. This is the Galápagos at its finest—an immersive, expertly curated expedition combining adventure, wildlife, world-class service, and refined luxury.

Out Story

There’s something deeply human about the urge to explore, to step beyond the familiar and discover the world not just as it is seen, but as it is lived. It’s through our own journeys that we came to understand this truth. Along the way, we realized that our distinct perspectives, passions, and lived experiences gave us a unique ability to navigate the world of travel and hospitality with intention and insight.

At So Local Tour Company, we are a collective of like-minded explorers—curious, connected, and quietly in the know. We move with a certain subtlety, almost behind the scenes, thoughtfully curating experiences that feel less like itineraries and more like personal invitations into the soul of a place. Our strength lies in listening closely and designing journeys that reflect not only where you want to go, but how you want to feel when you get there.

We know how hard it can be to step away from the demands of everyday life. That’s why we treat your time as sacred. Every detail, every moment, is considered with care—so when you travel with us, you’re not just getting away; you’re stepping into something meaningful. Whether it’s a slow morning along the golden shores of Itacaré, Brazil, or the humbling vastness of the Serengeti in Tanzania, your experience is designed to awaken curiosity and restore a sense of wonder.

But our purpose extends beyond the journey itself. With every experience we create, we are committed to honoring the communities and environments that welcome us in. Through education, responsible travel practices, and regenerative efforts, we aim to ensure that our presence contributes positively—supporting local livelihoods, preserving cultural heritage, and protecting natural landscapes for generations to come.

At our core, we believe in access—real, grounded, human connection to the places you visit. And we believe travel should leave a lasting impact, not just on you, but on the world around you. In many ways, we’re simply travelers like you—driven by curiosity, inspired by discovery, and ready to help you write your next chapter. Because the most unforgettable travel moments don’t happen on the surface—they happen when you go So Local.

Terms & Conditions

Cancellation Fees

If you cancel your tour 60 days or more prior to the departure date, you will forfeit your non-refundable deposit of $500 per person.

If you cancel your tour between 59-30 days before the departure date, you will be charged 50% of the total tour cost.

If you cancel your tour 29 days or less prior to the departure date, you will be charged 100% of the total tour cost.

Refunds

Refunds will be processed within 14 business days of receiving written notification of cancellation.

Refunds will be issued in the original form of payment.

Travel Insurance

We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect yourself against unforeseen circumstances that may cause you to cancel your tour. Travel insurance may provide coverage for trip cancellations, interruptions, and delays, as well as medical emergencies and evacuations.

Cancellation by So Local Tour Company

In the unlikely event that So Local Tour Company cancels your tour, you will receive a full refund of all monies paid, including your non-refundable deposit.

Changes to Tour Itinerary

So Local Tour Company reserves the right to make changes to the tour itinerary, including accommodations, transportation, and activities, due to unforeseen circumstances or circumstances beyond our control.

In the event of changes to the tour itinerary, So Local Tour Company will notify you in writing and provide a revised itinerary.

Acceptance of Cancellation Policy

By booking a tour with So Local Tour Company, you acknowledge that you have read, understand, and accept our cancellation policy

Trip Highlights

  • Kayaking & paddle boarding

  • Guided Hiking adventure

  • Up close Wildlife adventure

  • Snorkeling & diving

  • Tender Exploration

What's included

Meals

All meals on board

Beverages

All beverages including

Excusions

Transfers

Water Activities

Laundry

Wash & fold all included

Internet

Unlimited access to high speed Wi-Fi

Day 1

Day 1 image

Embark at Baltra Island & Bahia Borrero

Once you arrive at Baltra airport after traveling on one of our recommended flights, you will be met by our team and escorted on a short cross island transfer to the jetty. Receive a warm welcome aboard Aqua Mare, the Galapagos Islands' first 50m luxury superyacht. After a delicious lunch, pick out your snorkeling kit and receive a waterproof bag and Aqua Expeditions water bottle as a welcome gift.​

The afternoon will see you head out for your first excursion to the beautiful white beach of Bahia Borrero in the northern part of Santa Cruz. You might be able to spot Darwin’s finches, Cactus finches, and Small Ground finches nestled in the coastal vegetation.

For those who prefer to snorkel, you will encounter sea turtles at the beach — one of their primary nesting sites. Afterwards, head back to the yacht and indulge in a sumptuous Nikkei-inspired dinner curated by Aqua Expeditions’ world-renowned consultant chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino. Share stories of your excursion with other guests, marking the perfect start to your Galapagos Islands adventure.

Day 2

Day 2 image

El Barranco And Bahía Darwin, Genovesa Island

This morning, you’ll wake up on the other side of the equator and head over to Bahía Darwin’s coralline beach for hiking and snorkeling. Following a sumptuous lunch, explore Genovesa Island with a tender ride along the volcanic rocks of El Barranco. You’ll be able to view fur seals resting inside rock crevices. A 1.5 km hike inland will then take us to the lava fields to view red-footed boobies as well as great frigatebirds and Galapagos storm petrels. Enjoy a private movie screening after dinner if you wish. We recommend watching the Planet Earth documentary on the Galapagos Islands, the swashbuckling box office Master and Commander, or simply enjoy the starlit skies from the sun deck.

Day 3

Day 3 image

Bahía Sullivan, Santiago Island And Sombrero Chino Island

Start the morning early with a workout or a guided meditation on our sun deck followed by a refreshing breakfast. Our first excursion of the day will take us to Santiago Island with a dry landing at Bahía Sullivan to discover recent Pahoehoe lava flows. After a sumptuous lunch and lecture from one of our expert naturalist guides onboard Aqua Mare, we leave for Sombrero Chino Island, so named after the small crater that forms the islet.

In the surrounding crystal-clear waters, you might have the opportunity to observe sea lions and penguins from above. There will be time for snorkeling, stand-up paddle boarding, and kayaking. After working up an appetite, return to the yacht for evening sundowners and a signature dining experience serving macambo rice and fish maito. * Morning rendezvous diving option available

Day 4

Day 4 image

Bartolomé Island And Cerro Dragón, Santa Cruz Island

With an early morning anchor at Bartolomé Island, you will embark upon a mild climb up to the summit of a spatter cone for a spectacular view of the island’s iconic Pinnacle Rock. Cool down afterwards with a snorkel where you may encounter sea turtles and Galapagos penguins, before heading back to the yacht for lunch as we sail towards Santa Cruz Island. Our afternoon excursion takes us to Cerro Dragón or Dragon Hill, so named because in 1975 it was one of the only places in the Santa Cruz Island where scientists could still find a healthy population of land iguanas (Conolophus subcristatus). Back onboard, swap tales of your magnificent excursion while enjoying the best of the region’s flavors through seafood specialties like pan seared scallops and grilled squid. * Morning rendezvous diving option available.

Day 5

Day 5 image

Manzanillo Giant Tortoise Reserve And Fausto Llerena Breeding Center,

This morning, visit a nature reserve to see the Galapagos Islands' famous giant tortoises in their natural habitat. This area is also a great place to observe Darwin’s finches, yellow warblers, flycatchers, cattle egrets, and if lucky Galapagos Rails. After a delicious lunch, you will visit Darwin Station and the National Park headquarters. There will be free time to to enjoy the town of Puerto Ayora before returning to the ship. Enjoy the scenic sunset views on board from the upper deck. * Morning rendezvous diving option available

 

Day 6

Day 6 image

Punta Suárez, Bahía Gardner, And Islote Osborn, Española Island

Rise and shine to a guided meditation on our upper deck before disembarking in Punta Suárez for this morning’s excursion. This visitor site is one of the most interesting landing sites in Galapagos Islands, due to the high percentage of unique endemism in its fauna such as Española mockingbirds, lava lizards, marine iguanas, and the unique waved albatross. In the afternoon, we will take a tender ride to the beautiful array of islets where you will be able to snorkel alongside playful sea lions and many different species of reef fishes. The last visit of the day will be Bahía Gardner, an outstanding coralline sand beach that boasts one of the biggest colonies of sea lions in the Galapagos Islands. Back at the yacht, head over to our bar to socialize over Happy Hour with a glass of our special Aqua Bloody Mare as the crew prepares for departure to our next anchorage.

Day 7

Day 7 image

Sante Fé Island And Plaza Sur Island

After a night of sailing, visit Santa Fe Island, one of the oldest in the Galapagos archipelago. The island is characterized by its vegetation of palo santo trees, pear cactus, and other native bushes. Here you may spot land iguanas, lava lizards, mockingbirds, and Darwin’s finches. After the visit, we will be able to enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, or stand-up paddle boarding. Enjoy lunch on board before sailing to Plaza Sur Island, located off the eastern shore of Santa Cruz. In the afternoon, disembark at a small but diverse little islet to head out on a two-hour hiking excursion led by your guide to discover its unique landforms. Swap notes on everything you’ve seen today and end the day gazing at the archipelago’s amazing starlit skies while sipping on a glass of wine. * Morning rendezvous diving option available

Day 8

Day 8 image

Los Gemelos, Santa Cruz Island And Disembarkation

You begin your last day with a luxurious breakfast before bidding farewell to the Aqua Mare crew. Your last visit before leaving paradise is a final short excursion to drive up the highlands of Santa Cruz Island to the twin craters of Los Gemelos enroute to the airport. It is a remarkable location surrounded by lush vegetation. Memories of this last adventure will accompany you as you are escorted to Baltra Island for the departing flight back to the mainland and onward journey home.

Map of the trip locations

A. Vilcabamba, Ecuador

Vilcabamba, Ecuador

About your organizer

At So Local Tours, we specialize in crafting immersive travel experiences that celebrate the vibrant intersection of food, history, music, arts, and the natural environment. Our mission is to forge meaningful connections between travelers and the authentic heart of each destination, while upholding sustainability at the core of our operations. We are committed to empowering local communities by promoting responsible tourism that enhances economic viability for the local communities while enhancing our clients experiences.

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The Galapagos Islands Luxury included Cruise