Set sail into one of the most extraordinary wildlife destinations on Earth with this exclusive Galapagos photography adventure. Limited to just 24 participants aboard a beautifully appointed private charter, this journey offers an intimate experience where every moment is designed to connect you with the islands’ iconic landscapes and remarkable wildlife. Guided by three photography leaders, including Art Wolfe, you’ll explore volcanic vistas, pristine beaches, and thriving ecosystems that have inspired generations of naturalists and photographers alike.
Working in collaboration with the University of Washington Alumni Association and the experienced logistics team at Orbridge, this expedition ensures a seamless balance of field photography, education, and adventure. Whether you’re capturing the playful antics of the sea lions, the prehistoric looking marine iguanas, the interesting colors of the blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds, or the sunlit textures of volcanic terrain, every day offers unparalleled opportunities to refine your craft and expand your portfolio in one of the world’s most photogenic settings.
Led by Art Wolfe, Gavriel Jecan, and Libby Pfeiffer
Limited to 24 participants
Preliminary Highlights:
- Intimate small-group experience with a maximum of 25 participants.
- Three professional photography leaders providing personalized guidance.
- Access to remote and iconic locations across the Galapagos Islands via private charter.
- Opportunities to photograph endemic wildlife and dramatic volcanic landscapes.
- Collaboration with University of Washington and Orbridge ensures a thoughtfully curated experience.
- Begin in Quito with a visit to a chocolatier to learn how cacao beans are processed followed by a tasting of premium Ecuadorian chocolates.
- Experience unparalleled opportunities for immersive, up-close encounters with a myriad of wildlife plus some of The Big 15 including: Galapagos albatross, blue-footed booby, land and marine iguana, sea lion and giant tortoise.
- Benefit from knowledgeable naturalist guides who will provide insight on the origins of the unique flora and fauna endemic to the Galapagos Islands.
- Choose from a variety of water activities, as Isabela II is well-equipped with snorkel gear and ocean kayaks. Guides will also lead numerous outings by panga and glass-bottom boat.
- Enjoy exclusive access to many island locations. Isabela II has sailing privileges other vessels do not, so no other boats will be in sight during many moorings and shore landings.
- Visit historic sites, including the Charles Darwin Research Station — the iconic site of Galapagos National Park research and conservation efforts—most notable for its captive breeding program for the Galapagos giant tortoise; and Sullivan Bay on Santiago Island, one of the first sites visited by Charles Darwin.
Day-by-Day itinerary
WESTERN ITINERARY
Day 1: En Route from U.S. • Arrive in Quito, Ecuador
Day 2: Quito
Day 3: Quito • Flight to Baltra • Santa Cruz: Highlands • Puerto Ayora – Embarkation
Day 4: Bartolomé • Santiago: Sullivan Bay
Day 5: Santa Cruz: Dragon Hill • Santiago: Buccaneer Cove
Day 6: Isabela: Punta Vicente Roca • Fernandina: Punta Espinoza
Day 7: Baltra – Disembarkation • Flight to Quito, Ecuador
Day 8: Quito • Depart for U.S.
Full Itinerary
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, R = Reception
Day 1: En Route from U.S. • Arrive in Quito, Ecuador
Tuesday, February 23, 2027
After an evening arrival in Quito transfer to your five-star boutique hotel—the only Relais & Châteaux property in Quito—for a restful night’s sleep.
Day 2: Quito
Wednesday, February 24, 2027 (B,L,R)
Following breakfast and a guided panoramic tour of Quito, stop at a local artisan chocolate shop for an immersive, hands-on experience. Meet with a chocolate maker to gain insight into the history, evolution and traditional uses of cacao beans and the significant economic impact the Ecuadorian chocolate industry has on the country. Then roll up your sleeves for an opportunity to make your own chocolate bars.
This evening become acquainted with fellow travelers during a welcome orientation.
Day 3: Quito • Flight to Baltra • Santa Cruz: Highlands • Puerto Ayora – Embarkation
Thursday, February 25, 2027 (B,L,D)
This morning transfer to Quito’s Mariscal Sucre International Airport for the approximate two-hour flight to Baltra Airport. Upon arrival transfer to the Baltra Ferry Terminal to ferry to Santa Cruz Island.
A short, scenic drive across Santa Cruz brings you to the Highlands for lunch. Afterward visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and the Giant Tortoise Breeding Center where you’ll encounter the magnificent and iconic Galapagos giant tortoise, a species for which the Galapagos Islands are named. Walking among these enormous creatures is a profound and humbling experience. Gain an understanding of the comprehensive conservation efforts of maintaining and improving the environment and biodiversity in this remarkable archipelago. Also learn about the various stages of tortoise care and development, including a visit to the baby tortoise breeding area.
Visit Puerto Ayora’s main street before arriving to the port where your expedition vessel, Isabela II, awaits. During embarkation take time to unpack and become familiar with your stateroom and the ship’s welcoming public spaces.
This evening before dinner join fellow travelers, the captain and spirited expedition staff for a cocktail and to learn details of the activities ahead.
Day 4: Bartolomé • Santiago: Sullivan Bay
Friday, February 26, 2027 (B,L,D)
Our island-hopping adventure takes us to Bartolomé and its spectacular beach. If desired, climb the wooden staircase (less than a half-mile distance) to reach the summit for expansive panoramic views of the Galapagos. Back at the beach see herons and Galapagos hawks and enjoy time to snorkel in the calm waters.
Set out on a panga boat for a cruise around Pinnacle Rock, formed of limestone created by the accumulation of small volcanic elements. This active spot is home to playful Galapagos penguins that share the area with sea lions and colorful fish.
After lunch explore Sullivan Bay, renowned for its otherworldly volcanic landscape. Walk through paths of extensive lava flows and photograph the unique geological formations covering the barren terrain.
Returning to the ship embrace valuable leisure time to rejuvenate between adventures. Relax on the spacious sun deck while admiring the panoramic landscape, take a dip in the hot tub or re-energize with a workout in the fitness room.
You’ll anticipate on-board meals with excitement, as each is prepared by the ship’s Le Cordon Bleu-trained gastronomic director and created with top-quality organic ingredients.
Day 5: Santa Cruz: Dragon Hill • Santiago: Buccaneer Cove
Saturday, February 27, 2027 (B,L,D)
Arriving back to Santa Cruz at the northwest tip walk the trail to Dragon Hill. Along the way see the endemic land iguana (which resemble small dragons) and other reptiles, plus mockingbirds, Darwin’s finches and yellow warblers.
Dragon Hill offers a beautiful view of the bay and the western islands of the archipelago. Enjoy leisure time to stroll the shoreline or snorkel with hopes of spotting rays and green turtles.
Cruise the coastline beside the impressive cliffs of Buccaneer Cove and hear about the pirates, privateers and whalers who set anchor here during the 17th and 18th centuries. It’s home to a large number of marine birds, sea lions and intertidal organisms. The geology is fascinating, with layers of compacted tuff volcanic material that, due to wave and wind action, has eroded into different forms and shapes, namely “Elephant Rock” and an impressive natural cave.
During leisure time join a guide for a relaxing panga or glass-bottom boat ride, or snorkel or kayak.
Day 6: Isabela: Punta Vicente Roca • Fernandina: Punta Espinoza
Sunday, February 28, 2027 (B,L,D)
This morning explore the captivating coast of Isabela by watercraft looking for wildlife, including colonies of Galapagos fur seals, Nazca boobies, flightless cormorants, penguins and marine iguanas. Depending on conditions there may be a chance to snorkel along the cliffs, hopefully in the company of green sea turtles.
Back aboard Isabela II navigate along the Bolivar Channel where nutrient-rich upwellings provide fertile fishing grounds for cetaceans.
This adventure’s final island destination is Fernandina, the youngest island of the archipelago and arguably one of the most pristine ecosystems on the planet. Punta Espinoza boasts an amazing combination of barren landscapes and abundant wildlife, all dominated by the lofty volcano at the heart of the island. Highlights to spot include hawks, penguins, countless marine iguanas and the famous flightless cormorant with its beguiling blue eyes.
Day 7: Baltra – Disembarkation • Flight to Quito, Ecuador
Monday, March 1, 2027 (B,L)
Bid a fond adiós to the Isabela II crew this morning prior to departing Baltra for Quito where you will spend your final night. (Returning flights to the U.S. may begin departing late evening on Day 7 approximately around 9:00 pm and later.)
For post-tour guests: Depending on prevailing air schedules, guests may take an evening group flight to Lima, Peru, and overnight near the airport. Your flight itinerary and tickets will be provided to you by ground staff upon arriving back in Baltra and proceeding through customs. You will be assisted by ground staff through the check-in process for your flight.
Post-Tour Overnight: Wyndham Grand Costa del Sol Lima Airport
Day 8: Quito • Depart for U.S.
Tuesday, March 2, 2027 (B)
After breakfast main program guests departing during the suggested times take a complimentary transfer to the airport for flights home.
Inclusions
- 2 nights at 5-star Casa Gangotena in Quito (or similar) prior to embarkation
- 4 nights aboard the Isabela II featuring exploration by panga and glass-bottom boat, naturalist-led hikes and excursions, and evening lectures
- 1 night at Wyndham Quito Airport (or similiar) after disembarkation
- 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 4 dinners plus a special welcome reception in Quito
- A chocolatier experience in Quito
- All excursions and presentations
- Complimentary use of shorty wetsuits, snorkeling equipment and ocean kayaks
- Galapagos National Park entrance fee and transit card
- Internal round-trip airfare between Quito and the islands as noted in the itinerary
- Gratuities to local guides, hotel porters and drivers in Quito
- Airport transfers for guests arriving and departing during the suggested times