Avalon Waterways River Cruises South America Cruises

Join a naturalist and explore some of the most visually and naturally astounding islands in the world with an Avalon Waterways Galapagos Islands cruise. Interact with the interesting creatures of the region, such as the blue-footed boobies and giant tortoises. It’s these animals and their natural landscape that will truly take your breath away and give you an unbelievably unique experience. You may have the opportunity to explore the amazing indigenous culture in Peru, where you can travel to Machu Picchu’s ruins and scale the mountains. One-of-kind experiences are the norm when you cruise to the Galapagos Islands with Avalon Waterways.

Things to Do on a Galapagos Cruise with Avalon Waterways

Cruise to the Galapagos Islands with Avalon Waterways and see for yourself the diverse and amazing wildlife that inspired Charles Darwin to propose the idea of evolution. On select Avalon Waterways expedition cruises you can also visit the ancient city of Machu Picchu, which is filled with mysteries waiting to be uncovered. Featured below are some of the best things to do on an Avalon Waterways Galapagos Islands cruise:

• Sightseeing in Quito (Quito, Ecuador)
  Join a guided sightseeing tour of Quito, Ecuador – the highest capital city in the world (over 9,300 feet above sea level). Highlights include the ornate Legislative Palace, the imposing San Francisco Monastery and the Equatorial Monument at the Middle of the World park. Make sure to save time for a visit to the workshops showcasing the artwork of Oswaldo Guayasamin.
   

• Charles Darwin Research Station (Santa Cruz, Galapagos)
  Witness the fames tortoise breeding program and more at the Charles Darwin Research Station. This special research station is the base for many projects focused on helping preserve the indigenous species of the Galapagos Islands. You’ll have a chance to learn about the Islands’ ecosystems and inhabitants while contributing to their cause.
   

• South Plaza Island Hike (South Plaza, Galapagos)
  Land on the Galapagos’ South Plaza Island for a wildlife exploration in a class of its own. You’ll spot sea lions, Sally Lightfoot crabs, blue-footed boobies and multiple species of iguanas – each pointed out by your tour group’s experienced naturalists. Not to be outdone, the island’s flora is just as fascinating.
   

• Post Office Bay (Floreana Island, Galapagos)
  Sail through the channels of Floreana Island on your way towards Post Office Bay, home to the historic wooden barrel “post office” of the Galapagos Islands. Enjoy the artifacts and messages left by previous visitors and then drop off your own letter in the hopes that a future visitor will carry and deliver it upon their return home.
   

• Santa Cruz Highlands and Giant Tortoise Reserve (Santa Cruz, Galapagos)
  Arrive in Santa Cruz and follow your expert guide through the extraordinary Galapagos landscapes of the Santa Cruz highlands. Continue your journey into the Giant Tortoise Reserve to see these gentle giants in their natural habitat. This protected reserve is helping re-establish the island’s tortoise population, an ongoing effort your naturalist will explain.
   

• Glass-bottom Boat Tour (North Seymour Island, Galapagos)
  If you’re exhausted from days of hiking around the island, enjoy a relaxing excursion aboard a glass-bottom boat. Rest up as the window beneath your feet reveals the wonderful world of sea life navigating the colorful coral below your boat. Or, look up and enjoy the swooping finches, hawks, frigatebirds, swallow-tailed gulls and more.