

14-night Peru And The Galapagos Islands Cruise/Land Package
Aboard
Isabela II for Tauck
From
Lima, Peru
10 Sailings
Mar 26 - Oct 22, 2027
Published prices from
$14,790
per person*
taxes & fees included
Giant Tortoise Conservation, Endemic Wildlife Viewing, Dry Forest Hikes

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Overview
Galapaguero Cerro Colorado is a vital conservation area and visitor site located on San Cristóbal Island, the easternmost island and administrative capital of the Galápagos Archipelago. Dedicated to the protection and breeding of the endemic San Cristóbal Giant Tortoise (Chelonoidis chatamensis), this reserve offers a critical opportunity to observe these majestic reptiles in a semi-natural, protected environment. The facility plays a crucial role in the survival of the subspecies by raising hatchlings until they are strong enough to fend off introduced predators, a key conservation strategy in the Galápagos National Park efforts.
The reserve encompasses a large tract of dry tropical forest, providing a rich habitat for the tortoises and other unique endemic species. The experience is meticulously designed to educate visitors on the delicate balance of the island's ecosystem, focusing on the historical impact of human activity and the successful steps being taken toward recovery. Walking the designated loop trail through the reserve offers unparalleled proximity to the tortoises as they graze, wallow, and rest among the fragrant Palo Santo trees.
Walk the interpretive trail to see tortoises of all sizes, from tiny, protected hatchlings in the nursery to massive adults freely roaming the natural corrals.
Tip: Look for adults wallowing in the mud to keep cool, especially during warmer hours.
Explore the native dry forest habitat characterized by Palo Santo (Holy Wood) and various endemic cacti. The trail provides excellent views of the unique flora and geology of San Cristóbal's highlands.
Tip: The peeling bark of the Palo Santo tree releases a beautiful, distinctive aroma, especially after a recent rain.
Keep a lookout for unique avian species, including the San Cristóbal Mockingbird (found only on this island) and various species of Darwin's Finches. The dry forest is a crucial foraging ground.
Tip: Bird activity is usually highest early in the morning, making it the best time for birdwatching.
Utilize the incredible setting to capture stunning photographs of the tortoises in their natural setting, utilizing the contrasting light and the unique shapes of the dry forest vegetation.
Tip: Use a zoom lens to capture detail without breaching the mandatory 2-meter distance rule from the wildlife.
Engage with your Naturalist Guide to understand the breeding center's processes, the challenges of invasive species, and the successful repatriation of young tortoises into the wild.
Tip: Ask your guide about the different stages of the tortoise life cycle and the threats each stage faces.
Before or after your reserve visit, make a quick stop at the pristine Puerto Chino, a white sand beach near the reserve's entrance road, perfect for a refreshing swim or spotting sea lions playing in the surf.
Tip: This beautiful bay is often quieter than the main port beaches and is ideal for a brief, relaxing break.



Aboard
Isabela II for Tauck
From
Lima, Peru
10 Sailings
Mar 26 - Oct 22, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included


Aboard
Isabela II for Tauck
From
Guayaquil, Ecuador
8 Sailings
Jan 7 - Dec 23, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included


Aboard
Isabela II for Tauck
From
Lima, Peru
8 Sailings
Mar 27 - Oct 9, 2026
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included


Aboard
Isabela II for Tauck
From
Guayaquil, Ecuador
4 Sailings
Feb 19 - Nov 26, 2026
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included

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