Galápagos Islands Hurtigruten Expeditions
In Darwin’s Footsteps (Eastern Route)
9 Day Cruise Onboard MS Santa Cruz II® Cruise Departs 03 Dec 2025
Visit the UNESCO-protected Galápagos Islands, discovering their unique wildlife, flora, and fauna. Join us on a journey of ecological discovery as we travel in Charles Darwin's footsteps, seeing the natural wonders that so inspired him. Explore the islands of San Cristóbal Sante Fe, Santa Cruz, and Española, and spend two nights in Quito, one of South America's most charming cities.
Itinerary
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Two nights pre-cruise accommodation in Quito with breakfast, and dinner on day 2Full-day excursion of Historic Quito & Middle of the World, including lunch Day 3 | Transfer from Quito hotel to airport in Quito. Fly Economy Class from Quito to Baltra. Transfer from Baltra airport to the ship to begin your expedition cruise
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Transfer from Quito hotel to airport in Quito. Fly Economy Class from Quito to Baltra. Transfer from Baltra airport to the ship to begin your expedition cruise.
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Meet giant tortoises, explore nature reserves, spot seabirds, and enjoy pristine beaches.
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Explore beaches, spot iguanas, snorkel, kayak, and admire vibrant wildlife.
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Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, see giant tortoises, explore highlands, and enjoy diverse activities.
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Spot lava lizards, marine iguanas, waved albatrosses, and snorkel or kayak near Gardner Bay’s coral beach.
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Explore Eden Islet’s reefs, spot green turtles, reef sharks, and sail to wildlife-rich North Seymour.
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Transfer from ship to the airport. Fly Economy Class from Baltra to Quito.
Cruise Inclusions
Includes savings up to 25% and AU$150 onboard credit per person
Two nights hotel accommodation in Quito before the expedition cruise, including breakfast, and dinner on Day 2
Flights in economy class between Quito and Baltra, including all taxes
Transfer from the hotel to the airport in Quito before the expedition cruise. Transfers between the airport and the ship in Baltra
Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner. Wine and beer served with lunch and dinner. All day coffee, tea and soft drinks. A complimentary water bottle to refill on board and take home.
A polar expedition jacket, a backpack, or another piece of HX kit. Professional photos from your trip taken by our onboard photographer
Complimentary Wi-Fi (streaming not supported)
Use of hot tubs, fitness room, lounges and more
Gratuities
Range of included activities
Onboard Activities In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by experts on the Expedition Team, Full access to the ship’s Science Centre, Citizen Science Programme allows guests to assist with ongoing scientific research, Professional onboard photographer gives tips and tricks for the best landscape and wildlife photos, Informal gatherings with the crew for daily briefings
Landing Activities Escorted landings with small expedition boats, Loan of equipment for activities, Expedition photographers on hand to assist you.
Full-day excursion Historic Quito & Middle of the World, including lunch, before the expedition cruise
Galápagos Islands National Park admission fee
Transit control card for the Galápagos Islands
Access to the airport lounge at the Quito (or Guayaquil) airport upon return from the Galápagos Islands for guests flying internationally on the day of disembarkation
Cruise fare based on 25% Savings & AUD$150 onboard credit on sale until 23 Feb 2025
Explorer Cabin from $10,789 per person share
Darwin Suite from $14,409 per person share
IMPORTANT INFORMATION: All planned activities are subject to weather and ice conditions. Excursions and activities are subject to change. Please make sure you meet all entry and boarding requirements. Depending on your flight times, an additional overnight might be needed (not included). Fares shown include all savings, no further discounts apply. HX Price Promise - With Price Promise, HX will refund the difference if the price of your all-inclusive expedition drops after booking.
All cruise departures are subject to availability at time of booking. Credit card & travel agent services fees will apply. Speak to our travel expert for full details on deposit required to secure your booking or any current special offers in the market at the time of your enquiry.
Interested in this experience? Mention this Deal Code: 1090 when speaking with your travel agent. Don't have an agent? Click here to connect with one of our experts.