5 day itinerary for Baltra

Itinerary

Spending five days in Baltra, one of the gateways to the Galápagos Islands, is an exciting adventure. While Baltra itself is small and primarily serves as an airport hub, you can easily explore nearby islands and enjoy the unique wildlife and landscapes of the Galápagos. Here’s a fun and engaging itinerary for your trip!

## Day 1: Arrival in Baltra

Morning:

• Arrive at Baltra Airport. After clearing customs, take a short bus ride to the Itabaca Channel, where you’ll catch a ferry to Santa Cruz Island.

Afternoon:

• Check into your accommodation in Puerto Ayora, the main town on Santa Cruz. Grab a delicious lunch at a local eatery—try some fresh ceviche!

Evening:

• Stroll along the waterfront promenade in Puerto Ayora. Enjoy the sunset and maybe spot some sea lions lounging around.
• Dinner at a local restaurant. Don’t miss out on trying the local seafood!

## Day 2: Explore Santa Cruz Island

Morning:

• Head to the Charles Darwin Research Station. Here, you can learn about conservation efforts and see the famous giant tortoises up close. It’s a great way to kick off your Galápagos adventure!

Afternoon:

• After lunch, take a trip to Tortuga Bay. It’s a stunning beach with white sand and crystal-clear waters. You can swim, kayak, or just relax on the beach. Keep an eye out for marine iguanas!

Evening:

• Return to Puerto Ayora for dinner. Try a local dish like “locro de papa” (potato soup) for a taste of Ecuadorian cuisine.

## Day 3: Day Trip to North Seymour Island

Morning:

• Take a guided day tour to North Seymour Island. This is a fantastic spot for birdwatching—look out for blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds!

Afternoon:

• Enjoy a packed lunch on the island while soaking in the beautiful scenery. After lunch, you’ll have the chance to snorkel in the surrounding waters. Keep your eyes peeled for colorful fish and maybe even a sea turtle!

Evening:

• Return to Puerto Ayora. Treat yourself to a nice dinner and perhaps some gelato for dessert.

## Day 4: Visit to Floreana Island

Morning:

• Take an early morning boat trip to Floreana Island. This island is rich in history and has some unique wildlife.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Post Office Bay, where you can leave a postcard in the barrel and pick up others to deliver. Then, head to Devil’s Crown for some snorkeling. The underwater life here is spectacular!

Evening:

• Return to Santa Cruz and enjoy a relaxed dinner. Share stories with fellow travelers about your day’s adventures!

## Day 5: Relax and Departure

Morning:

• Spend your last morning at Las Grietas, a beautiful swimming spot with crystal-clear water. It’s a great place to relax and reflect on your trip.

Afternoon:

• Head back to Puerto Ayora for lunch and do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs. Look for local crafts and Galápagos-themed items!

Evening:

• Make your way back to Baltra Airport for your departure. Take a moment to soak in the beauty of the islands one last time!

Tips:

• Always check the weather and sea conditions, as they can affect your plans.
• Bring plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
• Respect the wildlife and follow the guidelines provided by your guides.

I hope this itinerary helps you have an unforgettable time in Baltra and the Galápagos Islands! Enjoy every moment of your adventure! 🌊🐢✨