What you’ll likely see
Galapagos sharks, white and black tipped sharks, hammerheads, sea turtles, manta rays, moon fish, dolphins, sea lions, starfish, sea urchins, assorted fish species, blue footed boobies, Nazca boobies, pelicans, and frigatebirds, and spotted eagle rays.
Itinerary
All passengers need to arrive at the agency at 8h00 in the morning of their tour, where we will outfit everyone with snorkeling gear, including a short wetsuit, fins, and a mask and snorkel.
At 8h30, we will head to the Muelle Acuario I and Zarpe, where you will meet your naturalist guide and we will embark.
Soon, Kicker Rock will come into view, and you’ll see this majestic outcropping of volcanic rock up close. Your naturalist guide will tell you the history of the rock, as well as the animals that are often seen there.
There will be two snorkeling sessions here; the first, you will enter the water in the channel that cuts through the middle of the rock, “shark alley,” and in the second, you’ll be at the eastern corner. However, your guide will make decisions on exact location depending on the conditions of the ocean at the time, including currents and waves. Each session lasts about 45 minutes. At Kicker Rock, you can often spot Galapagos sharks, white and black tipped sharks, hammerheads, sea turtles, manta rays, moon fish, dolphins, sea lions, starfish, sea urchins, and many different fish species. Birds are often around Kicker Rock as well, and it’s common to see blue footed boobies, Nazca boobies, pelicans, and frigate birds. As always, of course, there will be variation in what you see–we don’t control the wildlife!
After your snorkeling session, you’ll be ready for your lunch. You may select a meal with chicken or fish, as well as a vegetarian or vegan option. Lunch is served on the boat, with cold nonalcoholic beverages and assorted snacks.
After sailing around Kicker Rock, the boat will head to one of three beaches (Manglesito, Puerto Grande, or Cerro Brujo depending on the itinerary). There, you’ll have the chance to get off the boat, stretch your legs on a guided walk, swim, relax, and snorkel again if you’d like. Sea turtles, sea lions, and rays are common here, along with different birds and fish.
At approximately 15h00, you’ll head back to port to drop off your equipment, and can enjoy the rest of your afternoon on the island! We are happy to provide recommendations for further activities, places to eat, or any other information you might want.
*This itinerary is subject to change at the discretion of the Galapagos National Park and your naturalist guide. For example, you might visit the beach first and Kicker Rock second in certain cases depending on ocean conditions. We take safety seriously, and always strive to provide you with the best and safest experience.
*In light of the pandemic, we will be implementing stringent cleaning policies. Every snorkeling gear will be thoroughly disinfected between uses, and the agency and boat will be wiped down daily or between tours, whichever is more often. Hand sanitizer will be available at all times, and we will adhere to protocols recommended by the National Park. Your–and our–safety comes first.
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