Floreana Lava Lodge

Early morning head to the Puerto Ayora dock to embark on a public speed boat for the 2 hour transfer to the island of Floreana. This peaceful island is home to the Galapagos’ smallest population, only 150 people, and it is the least developed and most natural of the four inhabited islands. Once a pirates’ lair, Floreana was the first inhabited island in the Galapagos and descendants of the original population still live here together with the mysterious tales and legends that surround their ancestors.

After arrival to the island check into your home for the next couple of days, overlooking the Galapagos’ most beautiful and secluded bay. Later head out for a short walk towards La Loberia (a sea lion breeding ground) and then snorkeling and swimming in the warm bright water with sea turtles, sea lions, spectacular rays and lots of shimmering fishes In the afternoon, return to the lodge for a nice warm shower and dinner in the village.

After breakfast, venture out to the Floreana highlands in an open-air bus (chiva), for an unbeatable, historic, and comfortable way to see the island. On the way your guide will point out the wildlife and give you an idea of the colorful history of some of Floreana's first inhabitants, such as the Wittmers (whose descendents still live on the Island), the ‘Baroness’, and the pirates that once visited here. The drive ends at Asilo de la Paz (Peace Haven) where the hike begins. Along the way learn about this historic site, explore pirate caves, and visit the freshwater spring that provides water for the entire Island. Keep an eye out for giant tortoises lumbering around in the vegetation or even on the trail. Continue down through a rural area where the local people grow produce for their own consumption: this is a fascinating example about  how these island people survived in this remote place.

From La Primavera continue by open-air bus down towards Las Palmas, where the Island’s first permanent inhabitant, the eccentric Dr Ritter, lived and is buried. Arriving in 1926, this German physician believed that with a combination of exercise and the right vegetarian diet he would live to be 150 years old. On the way you'll get spectacular views of the Floreana shoreline, and on arrival sit down to a special BBQ.

In the afternoon, back at the lodge, head our for more marine exploration, snorkeling, kayaking and stand up paddling (SUP).

Take the boat back to Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz. Please note that you may need to consider additional services in Santa Cruz before your flight back to the continent via Baltra.