On this journey to the Galápagos, every day drops you into a new world: misty highland forests filled with Darwin’s finches, blinding-white beaches dotted with sea turtles, volcanic cliffs buzzing with seabirds, and crystalline waters where sea lions, rays, sharks and even penguins flash past your lens.
From the flamingo lagoons of Floreana to the fiery marine iguanas of Española and the surreal lava fields of Chinese Hat, each island offers rare wildlife encounters, dramatic light, and landscapes that feel sculpted for storytelling. With expert guidance, small groups, and incomparable access, this itinerary is a dream for photographers who crave authenticity, intimacy, and magic in the wild.
Trip information
Embark on an unforgettable photography expedition through the legendary Galápagos Islands, where every day delivers new wildlife, new landscapes, and once-in-a-lifetime encounters. From misty highland forests and giant tortoises to pristine beaches alive with sea lions, iguanas, and nesting seabirds, this journey takes you deep into the heart of one of the world’s most unique ecosystems.
Sail aboard the Samba to remote islands shaped by fire and evolution, snorkel with turtles, rays, sharks and even penguins, and hike across surreal volcanic terrain. With expert guiding, small groups, and unparalleled access to wildlife, this trip offers nature lovers and photographers the rare chance to capture the Galápagos at its most authentic, raw, and breathtaking.
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Day to day
Arrive at Baltra and meet your naturalist guide before crossing to Santa Cruz. Explore the lush Highlands, home to giant tortoises, Scalesia forests, and rich birdlife — a great first opportunity for portraits and moody forest shots. Board the Samba in the early evening.
At Punta Cormorant, photograph flamingos, sea turtles, and contrasting olivine and white-sand beaches. Snorkel at Champion Islet among sea lions, rays, and vibrant fish before visiting Post Office Bay and the Baroness Lookout for landscapes and storytelling-rich human history.
Punta Suárez greets you with fiery-colored marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and dramatic cliffs packed with seabirds, including (seasonally) the waved albatross. In the afternoon, relax or photograph playful sea lions on Gardner Bay’s pristine white beach, with optional snorkeling or kayaking.
Circumnavigate the towering walls of Kicker Rock and, conditions permitting, snorkel with sharks, turtles, and schooling fish. At Punta Pitt, capture surreal volcanic landscapes, red-footed boobies, frigatebirds, and golden beaches before a sunset hike on the tuff cone.
Discover Santa Fe’s turquoise Barrington Bay, home to giant cactus forests, Galápagos hawks, sea lions, and the endemic pale land iguana — perfect for close wildlife encounters. Continue to South Plaza for striking color contrasts, dramatic cliffs, and one of the best sites for iguana and seabird photography.
Photograph fresh, otherworldly lava formations and snorkel with penguins around Chinese Hat’s pristine waters. In Bartolomé, climb to the iconic viewpoint overlooking Pinnacle Rock before exploring golden beaches where sea turtles nest.
In James Bay, photograph shorebirds, lava formations, brightly colored crabs, marine iguanas, and fur sea lions resting in partially collapsed lava tubes. In the afternoon, explore Rábida’s deep red volcanic beach, sea lion nursery, and excellent snorkeling with rays, sharks, and vibrant fish.
Walk among the largest blue-footed booby colony in the islands and witness frigatebird males displaying their red throat pouches. After a final morning of iconic Galápagos wildlife photography, return to the Samba for breakfast and check-out.
Guides
Yves Adams
A celebrated wildlife and landscape photographer from Belgium, Yves is passionate about the Arctic. This passion has brought him to…
Ship
M/V Samba
To truly experience the mystical isolation that shaped Galápagos life, the SAMBA is the perfect choice. This sturdy and elegant Dutch classic combines comfort, safety, and style, making her one of the finest vessels in her class. Designed for ocean-going adventure, her high bow ensures smooth crossings, complemented by a special stabilising sail for added comfort. Onboard, the main salon and dining area provide a welcoming social space, while the top-side settees and expansive forward deck are ideal for stargazing, whale watching, or simply soaking up the sun. Accommodating just 14 guests, the SAMBA offers an intimate, private, and flexible way to explore the islands. Her professional, friendly crew and expert naturalist guide go the extra mile to make every moment unforgettable. Locally owned and crewed entirely by Galápagueños, the SAMBA is also environmentally conscious and socially responsible, embodying both elegance and sustainability.
