Globus
Independent Galapagos Cruise Aboard The Galápagos Legend
How deep is your love of adventure? Is it deep enough to follow the course of Charles Darwin to discover your own love affair with the wildlife paradise of the Galápagos Islands? If so, this Globus Independent tour in South America is pointing you in the right direction. Begin by exploring the historic heart of Quito and depart for parts unknown where blue-footed boobies, giant tortoises, and diving iguanas of the Galápagos give new meaning to mind-blowing discoveries. Cruise in luxury on the Galápagos Legend and explore the archipelago in the company of a Naturalist guide. Sail upon pristine waters to discover the perfectly evolved creatures who thrive on this volcanic archipelago. Stroll the sand where sea lions bask and albatross brace against the updrafts above the cliffs. Sail, snorkel, and simply stay in a state of astonishment through the sanctuaries of spectacular species on Bartolomé, Santiago, North Seymour, and San Cristobal Islands. Visit the Giant Tortoise Reserve where conservationists work to protect the gentle giants for which the islands are named. You’ll also find the I-time you deserve to fall in love with adventure again!
| Day 1 |
Situated on the equator and nestled beneath an imposing volcano, the rugged, sprawling, and vibrant city of Quito offers adventure galore. A South American gem and Ecuador’s capital, Quito combines the best of its Incan and Spanish influences in fascinating cultural attractions, and the city’s surrounding natural beauty will surely astound you. From stunning churches and basilicas to exquisite art galleries and museums, visit Old Town to explore Quito’s history and architectural splendor. Highlights include the city’s Gothic-style Basílica del Voto Nacional, whose vaulted spires and stained-glass windows tower over the city center, the sumptuous Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús, decorated throughout with rich golds, and the expansive Convento de San Francisco, the Spanish style convent brimming with centuries-old art. Plaza Grande, the city’s central square, provides access to all of these religious landmarks, as well as excellent shopping and dining opportunities. Venture to the city limits to experience Quito’s natural marvels. A quick cable car ride from TelefériQo will take you to the peak of Pichincha volcano, whose dizzying heights offer magnificent views of the city below. Better yet, journey to the middle of the world at Mitad del Mundo, which marks the exact spot where the equator crosses through Ecuador. Find your next adventure in Quito! |
| Day 2 |
Situated on the equator and nestled beneath an imposing volcano, the rugged, sprawling, and vibrant city of Quito offers adventure galore. A South American gem and Ecuador’s capital, Quito combines the best of its Incan and Spanish influences in fascinating cultural attractions, and the city’s surrounding natural beauty will surely astound you. From stunning churches and basilicas to exquisite art galleries and museums, visit Old Town to explore Quito’s history and architectural splendor. Highlights include the city’s Gothic-style Basílica del Voto Nacional, whose vaulted spires and stained-glass windows tower over the city center, the sumptuous Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús, decorated throughout with rich golds, and the expansive Convento de San Francisco, the Spanish style convent brimming with centuries-old art. Plaza Grande, the city’s central square, provides access to all of these religious landmarks, as well as excellent shopping and dining opportunities. Venture to the city limits to experience Quito’s natural marvels. A quick cable car ride from TelefériQo will take you to the peak of Pichincha volcano, whose dizzying heights offer magnificent views of the city below. Better yet, journey to the middle of the world at Mitad del Mundo, which marks the exact spot where the equator crosses through Ecuador. Find your next adventure in Quito! |
| Day 3 |
Sea lions and birds populate Ecuador's North Seymour Island. |
| Day 4 |
Though Santiago Island is uninhabited and has comparatively little vegetation, it draws a good number of visitors on cruises through the Galapagos Islands. The island consists of two overlapping volcanoes, and the resulting rock formations provide some fascinating landscapes. It's also a great location for bird watching and scuba diving. |
| Day 5 |
Geologically, San Cristobal Island is one of the oldest islands in the Galápagos archipelago. It is home to the only source of fresh water in the islands, a small lake called Laguna El Junco. The lake hosts a large population of birdlife, as does the rest of the island. Other animal inhabitants include sea lions, tortoises, marine iguanas, dolphins, lobsters and more. One of San Cristobal Island's most popular visitor sites is Cerro Brujo, with its expansive white sand beach and a lagoon that locals once used as a salt mine but now offers excellent snorkeling opportunities. Another must-see is Kicker Rock, a fascinating rock formation that looks like a boot from one angle (hence its English name) and like a sleeping lion from another (thus its Spanish name, Roca León Dormido). |
| Day 6 |
San Cristobal de las Casas, nestled in the Chiapas Highlands of southern Mexico, is known for its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and indigenous heritage. At the heart of San Cristobal is the picturesque main square, the Zócalo, surrounded by markets, cafes, and the yellow-and-red façade of the Cathedral of San Cristobal, a landmark that has stood for centuries. The natural beauty surrounding San Cristobal is captivating. Just a short drive away, visitors can explore the stunning Sumidero Canyon, a dramatic gorge carved by the Grijalva River. Boat tours offer close-up views of the towering cliffs and the chance to spot wildlife such as crocodiles, monkeys, and herons. San Cristobal’s culinary scene is another highlight, with a mix of traditional Chiapanecan flavors and international influences. Visitors can savor dishes like tamales, pozol (a refreshing corn-based drink), and tascalate, a regional chocolate drink made with toasted corn and cinnamon. The city is also known for its thriving coffee culture, with many cafes serving locally grown beans from the surrounding highlands. |
| Day 7 |
Guayaquil, Ecuador, is a vibrant port city and a frequent starting point for cruises to the Galapagos Islands. Stroll along the Malecón 2000 boardwalk for stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, explore the botanical gardens of Parque Historico Guayaquil, or enjoy the colorful streets and shops of popular Las Peñas neighborhood. |
| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
01/03/26 - 01/09/26 |
Starting At $5,359 |
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|
02/28/26 - 03/06/26 |
Starting At $5,359 |
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|
03/14/26 - 03/20/26 |
Starting At $5,359 |
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|
03/28/26 - 04/03/26 |
Starting At $5,359 |
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The “Starting at” or listed price is based on the lowest price available to book. Price is per passenger based on double occupancy and does not include international airfare. Some tours require intra-vacation flights (and in some cases intra-vacation segments must be purchased from Globus) in which case intra-vacation air and taxes are included in the price shown.
