Galapagos Encounter: Southern Islands (Grand Queen Beatriz)

Six days sailing around the southern Galapagos islands aboard the Grand Queen Beatriz, getting close to the wildlife that makes this archipelago what it is.

Expect sea lions, iguanas, giant tortoises and birds going about their business largely unbothered by your presence, plus snorkelling among manta rays, turtles and reef fish. Hikes across the islands' volcanic, sunbaked terrain give you a sense of the landscapes Darwin encountered nearly two centuries ago.

This is an active trip on a small boat, with wet and dry landings and time spent moving between decks, so it suits travellers happy to get stuck in physically.

What you'll do

• Snorkel alongside manta rays, turtles and tropical fish
• Spot sea lions, marine iguanas and giant tortoises up close
• Hike volcanic landscapes across the southern islands
• Travel between islands by boat, including Zodiac (panga) transfers
• Follow in Charles Darwin's footsteps across the archipelago