Private Tour
LA PINTA ORIGIN OF SPECIES ADVENTURE - SOUTHEASTERN (Thurs-Mon)
Overview
Available languages
5 days
Mobile ticket
We’re delighted to have you on board for this journey of discovery to some of the most beautiful islands in the Galapagos. Our itinerary together begins on Baltra Island, a former military base during World War II, and now an Ecuadorian naval and air force station. Once all formalities are completed, we venture east along the volcanic shores of North Seymour and Santa Cruz Islands, until we reach the Plazas Islands. Our adventures start with a dry landing at a manmade jetty on South Plaza Island. During the next day, we will explore Santa Fe Island and San Cristobal Island, home to the provincial capital of the Galapagos province. Then, we sail south to Española Island, with its remarkable visitor site (a favourite of many visitors): Punta Suarez. Here, we’ll wander along the rugged coastline, home to hundreds of marine iguanas, sea lions, marine birds, and even albatross (during much of the year).
Additional Info
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
Itinerary subject to change due to weather, logistical, Galápagos Park regulations or operational reasons
Baggage important notes: Guests can bring aboard the ship a reasonable amount of clothing and personal effects without charge. Baggage is handled in accordance with the airlines’ regulations and tariffs. Baggage exceeding these limitations is subject to the charges as set forth by the individual operators. Airlines are strict with baggage limitations. The current limits are 23 kg (50.6 pounds) for checked items, 8 kg (17 pounds) for hand luggage and 1 personal item (handbag, camera bag, laptop, etc.)
All baggage must be securely packed, and properly and clearly labeled. Liquid, fragile, perishable and other articles not suitably packed are transported at guests’ own risk.
Restricted Baggage in the Galapagos: Local authorities manage the quarantine system of the Galápagos National Park in order to reduce the possibility of foreign species invading the archipelago. All cargo and luggage that arrives to Galapagos National Park or that is transferred from one island to another must be inspected. To preserve the human health and the native species of the Galapagos Islands, the following products may not be transferred to Galapagos: fresh vegetables and fruits, animal products and or their derivatives, dairy products. Other live animals, pathological samples, dry coffee beans, genetically modified organisms, forest species or their disseminative parts, grass and its disseminative parts, fresh flowers, medicinal plants and their disseminative parts, banana tree leaves, micro-organisms (fungi, bacteria, etc.) soil and sand, and animal vaccines
One of our destination experts will get in touch with our guests to make sure they have all logistical information available, specially due to entry requirements to the Galapagos Islands.
Cancellation Policy
If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
What To Expect
Baltra and South Plaza Islands
Accommodations
Luxury Double Cabin (2 guests)
Food and Drinks
LUNCH
Lunch
DINNER
Dinner
Baltra
Once you land in Baltra, we will have an immediate transfer to the nearby dock to board Yacht La Pinta. After an introductory briefing onboard, you will partake in an emergency boat drill, be assigned to your cabin and then be invited to lunch. We will set anchor and get on our way to our next adventure.
The turquoise waters of the channel here contrast brilliantly with the white sand beach and volcanic rocks that make up the shoreline. A carpet of scarlet-colored sesuvium succulents sits at the base of a large cluster of luminescent-green prickly-pear cacti. Crawling around this entire scene are the yellow-greyish land iguanas. Along the coastline, we will walk right by sea lion colonies while seabirds play along the cliffs of this small but spectacular island.
Santa Fe and San Cristobal Island
Accommodations
Luxury Double Cabin (2 guests)
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
LUNCH
Lunch
DINNER
Dinner
Santa Fe Island
We take the dinghy from Yacht La Pinta over to this idyllic white-sand beach that’s populated with colonies of sea lions. Galapagos hawks are often easily observed here, typically found sitting perched atop the salt bushes. The brilliantly yellow Santa Fe land iguana, which is exclusive to just this island (in the whole world!), might also be spotted during the walk. Following the walk, you’ll have your choice of swimming and snorkeling along a natural wave barrier.
Galapaguera de Cerro Colorado
After lunch, we will disembark at Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, the archipelago’s capital city. Following this, we will take a 40-minute drive over to the island’s southern shore. Once there, at Cerro Colorado, we will visit the Breeding Center for the highly-endangered giant tortoises that amble around a fantastic deciduous forest. This forest is also home to dozens of bird species, including the San Cristobal mockingbird and the San Cristobal lava lizard
San Cristobal Island
Accommodations
Luxury Double Cabin (2 guests)
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
LUNCH
Lunch
DINNER
Dinner
Punta Pitt
On this morning, we land at the eastern tip of San Cristobal Island. The trail that ascends from the beach provides spectacular views of the shoreline, allowing guests to observe frigatebirds plus a colony of bachelor sea lions. After the walk, you will have the chance to swim along the beach and snorkel, weather permitting.
Cerro Brujo
After lunch, a dinghy ride along the shores will take us over to Cerro Brujo’s expansive, white coral beach. This is a great site for walking, with rewarding birdwatching opportunities that feature plenty of seabirds and shorebirds. Galapagos sea lions will also be present. History Fact: These are the same shores that Charles Darwin walked along back in September of 1835.
Española Island
Accommodations
Luxury Double Cabin (2 guests)
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
LUNCH
Lunch
DINNER
Dinner
Punta Suarez
The morning outing at Punta Suárez provides an exciting walk across lava terrain to visit the unique seabird colonies that populate this area. Waved albatrosses (visible from April until January), boobies, swallow-tailed gulls, and the famous “blowhole” geological formation await! Also, you’ll want to keep an eye out for the red-green-black marine iguanas! Many regard this site as one of the best in all Galapagos. Afterwards, we will head back onboard for lunch.
Gardner Bay
In the afternoon, we will disembark at this beautiful, white coral beach for a short walk to observe the sea lions, mockingbirds and finches. You can also choose to simply enjoy the beach. There is great snorkeling in this area. Alternatively, you can opt to kayak or take a ride aboard our glass-bottom boat.
Santa Cruz and Baltra Islands
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Charles Darwin Research Station
After disembarking at the Puerto Ayora docks in the morning, we will visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and get a chance to check out the breeding program for giant tortoises. You will also get a good sense of the efforts and progress that the Foundation and National Park have made in terms of conservation. Afterwards, we will take a bus that will take us up and over Santa Cruz Island to the opposite coast. Once there, a short ferry ride will take us across the channel to Baltra Island and then the airport. This Galapagos journey ends at Baltra Island, where you will board your flight back to the mainland. Baltra’s flat substrate (due to its tectonically uplifted origin) is the reason for why this island was chosen back in the 1940’s as the construction site for an airport.
What‘s Included
Wifi (Due to the Galapagos' remote location, connections are intermittent and low-bandwidth)
Fuel surcharge (A destination expert will contact you).
Glass Bottom boat / Kayaks / Paddleboards / Pangas (inflatable dinghies for coastal exploration).
Reading room / Natural history library / Outdoor terrace / Coffee station 24/7.
Multiple purpose room / Landing and facility fees.
Doctor onboard 24/7.
Island Sightseeing with certified Naturalist Guides.
Wetsuits / Snorkeling Equipment / Fitness Room / Safe deposit box (in cabin).
Airport transportation to/from Galapagos and airport taxes (A destination expert will contact you).
Galapagos National Park Entrance (A destination expert will contact you).
Ingala Transit Control Card (A destination expert will contact you).
Gift Pack, tips and gratuities.
Soft & Alcoholic beverages, available at an extra cost ( Over 18 years old).
Medical insurance and travel insurance.
Options
Classic Cabins || 3 Persons
Cabins accommodation: 1 Double Cabin + 1 Single Cabin.
Classic Cabins || 4 Persons
Cabins accommodation: 2 Double Cabins.
Cabin Single || 1 Person
Cabins accommodation: 1 Cabin exclusive for single use.
Cabin Double || 2 Persons
Cabins accommodation: 1 Double Cabin.
Reviews
28 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Amazing Ecuador
B3833AMjessicaf,Feb 28, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I want to sincerely thank Carolina for creating the perfect itinerary for a solo traveler. I shared what truly mattered to me during my time in Ecuador, and she exceeded my expectations in every way. I had the unforgettable opportunity to experience the cloud rainforest in Mashpi and board La Pinta to explore the Galápagos. A special shout-out to my guide Anderson and my waiter Darwin in Mashpi, they were both incredibly informative and kind. Thank you as well to all the guides on La Pinta; they were exceptional. Each one was knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely helpful with the groups. I always looked forward to being served by Roberto — he made our table feel special every time. In Quito, Alex was an outstanding guide. He made me feel comfortable throughout my entire stay. I learned so much from him, and it was clear how deeply he loves his country. Martin was also an exceptional driver, so pleasant and professional. I will remember my time in Ecuador very fondly.
Ecuador was magical!
michaelcI417CG,Feb 19, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Some trips are just vacations. Others become defining travel experiences you measure future journeys against. Our 11 days in Ecuador fell squarely into the second category, and much of that is thanks to Melissa Altamirano of MetroJourneys. From the moment we landed in Quito to our final departure, every detail felt thoughtfully composed. Melissa’s recommendations were spot on. Our time in the Galápagos was seamless, immersive, and expertly guided. In Quito, we experienced both the historic richness and the vibrant present of the city without ever feeling rushed or uncertain about logistics. And our stay at Mashpi Lodge was extraordinary, a cloud forest retreat that felt equal parts National Geographic expedition and serene sanctuary. What truly set Melissa apart was not just her knowledge of Ecuador, but her ability to match experiences to us. The guides she arranged were informed, engaging, and clearly passionate about their work. Transfers were punctual and effortless. Accommodations reflected both comfort and character. We never had to second-guess a plan or worry about a detail. The result was a trip that felt relaxed and worry free, even while we were exploring some of the most unique ecosystems on the planet. If you are considering travel to Ecuador and want an experience that is carefully curated, seamlessly executed, and deeply memorable, I would strongly recommend working with Melissa Altamirano at MetroJourneys. She turns complexity into clarity and travel into something truly special.
Review of La Pinta – Galápagos Cruise
jalelahsophia,Jan 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our seven days aboard La Pinta were truly unforgettable. It’s rare to experience a journey that feels both awe‑inspiring and deeply grounding, but this one did. I’m so grateful we had the chance to explore the Galápagos Islands in such an intimate and thoughtful way — waking up each morning to new landscapes, new wildlife, and moments that felt almost unreal in their beauty. From sea lions sunbathing on the rocks to giant tortoises moving with ancient calm, every day offered something extraordinary. What made this trip even more meaningful were the people. We met fellow travelers who quickly became friends — the kind of friendships that feel effortless, joyful, and lasting. Sharing these experiences together, laughing over meals, swapping stories on deck, and witnessing the magic of the islands side by side created bonds I’ll carry with me for a long time. La Pinta itself is a beautiful boat: comfortable, elegant, and perfectly designed for exploring these islands. The food was consistently delicious, fresh, and prepared with so much care. And the staff — Cathy, Drees, Indira, David, Gaby, and Roberto — made this journey what it was. Their warmth, professionalism, and genuine kindness elevated every moment. They anticipated needs before we even voiced them, celebrated the small joys with us, and made us feel at home in the middle of the Pacific. I’ll never forget them. This wasn’t just a tour. It was a gift — a week of wonder, connection, and gratitude that I’ll remember for the rest of my life.
Finch Bay and La pinta yacht experiences
garycrystalnj,Dec 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Metropolitan journeys Travelagent Maria Carard Banderas was extremely helpful in getting me my dream vacation in the Galapagos. I stayed for four nights at the Finch Bay hotel, and four nights on La Pinta cruising the islands with great food service and naturalist guide guides. I feel like I didn’t miss anything. Can’t wait to go back.
Ecuador and Galapagos
I4701XIsylvies,Aug 7, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We recently returned from an extraordinary journey through the Galapagos Islands, Quito, and Mashpi Lodge—and it was one of the most memorable trips we’ve ever taken. While the destinations themselves are breathtaking, what made this experience exceptional was the seamless organization and thoughtful planning behind it all, thanks to Anddy. From the very first enquiry, Anddy was responsive, enthusiastic and knowledgeable. He crafted an itinerary that balanced adventure, comfort, and discovery. Every transfer was arranged with precision, and we felt completely taken care of throughout the entire journey. Thank you, Anddy, for turning a dream into reality.
Flawless expedition in Ecuador and Peru
peter m,Jul 8, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Metropolitan Tours (and their rep Anddy Males) created a custom itinerary for a luxury/adventure tour for my wife and I that included everything on our wish-list and more. A Galapagos cruise on the 40 passenger Yacht La Pinta was comfortable and well organized, with daily excursions (including snorkeling) to several islands guided by very knowledgeable naturalists. The scenery and the beaches were magnificent and we got to see all of the "big five" Galapagos birds and animals. Food was good and the staff was terrific. Our stay at the Mashpi Lodge was a real highlight-- a modern luxury lodge hidden deep in a mountain cloud forest, with excellent food and friendly guides who led us on scenic hikes through running steams surrounded by waterfalls, exotic plants and wildlife. The night walks and the humming bird excursions were particularly enjoyable. The city tours of Quito, Cusco and Lima were all wonderful and the hotels were first class. An added surprise were lunches at beautiful restaurants with delicious local cuisine served at scenic "off the beaten track" locations that we would never have found on our own. The trip to Machu Piccu (including the scenic Vista-dome railway) was the crown jewel of the trip-- a "real bucket list" item that was a real thrill. Overall the trip was an excellent value and exceeded our expectations in every way. We were met at every airport (there were 5 internal flights!), hotel and venue exactly on time (every time!), and our guides were extremely polite, friendly and knowledgeable. With all the different (and often exotic) venues, connections, flights and tours during our 2 weeks in Ecuador and Peru, it seemed inevitable that something would go wrong--but it never did. Thank you Metropolitan for such a happy and memorable expedition!
First Class Ecuador
grantsT6512WM,Nov 26, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Metropolitan helped us put together a fantastic trip to Ecuador, including 6 nights in the Galapagos and 4 nights in Quito, with a side trip to Mashpi. Melissa worked with us to coordinate everything we wanted to do, and Metropolitan handled all the movements back and forth with ease. All facilities were first class, La Pinta, Gangotena, Mashpi and Finch Bay. You cannot go wrong using Metropolitan for your Ecuador adventure. They even handled the flight issue when we had to rebook flights in Guayaquil due to an unannounced cancellation from Latam Airlines. I will use them again when/if I return to Ecuador to see more of this beautiful country.
A trip of a lifetime
jillbK5767EE,Jul 21, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00A trip of a lifetime. It was well- organized from arriving in Ecuador to flying to Galapagos and back home. The tour of Galapagos was amazing and well-documented by Metropolitan who sent all of their professional photographs after we arrived home. We were treated very personally with all of the staff knowing our name and room number. A tour of Quito was included on arrival day. Our guide, Kathleen, was amazing. She showed us the sites of Quito that we could not have seen on our own.
Nice service, old boat
Lourdesdaisy,Jun 27, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
3.00This is an old boat which leads to quite a choppy experience when sailing. The cabins are very basic with little attempt to make them pleasant. We did a six day tour and it was too long, a number of the excursions were repetitive. Restaurant food is ok but nothing memorable. If you are used to high quality cruising then this is not for you. On one day we were dumped at a hotel for three hours waiting for a tour. Not what I came to Galapagos for. On a positive, we saw great wildlife and nothing went wrong and most staff were excellent, I must mention: Kathy the lead guide who was superb Roberto in the restaurant who always had a great welcome for us. Pedro our great cabin assistant
A great family adventure!!!
19thunder52,May 20, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was an awesome interactive cruise with daily activities to include deep water and beach snorkeling, kayaking, a glass bottom boat if snorkeling is not in your forte, hiking, daily briefings and informative lectures with a staff who couldn't wait to help you with whatever you might need. The nature guides were all superb. Not to mention the excellent dining experiences!! This tour allowed us to see 12 of the "Big 15" wildlife observation goals. We will definitely consider returning to complete our Galapagos tour with the western and northern islands on the La Punta!
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Operated by Metropolitan Touring