Metropolitan Touring Offers Extended Nine-Day Galápagos Journeys with Unique Wildlife: What You Need To Know

Metropolitan Touring, which stands as one of the top companies that operate luxury expedition cruises, now introduces two new nine-day Galápagos Island trips to its existing cruise offerings. The extended itineraries which scientists created to provide deeper access to the archipelago’s wildlife and natural environments, will become the primary attraction for visitors who want to travel across the entire island chain. Passengers can experience two new trips, the Islands of Fire Adventure and the Origin of the Species Adventure, which operate on La Pinta and Isabela II, two ships that offer both opulent facilities and professional-led educational trips.

For 2026, Metropolitan Touring has introduced these extended trips to give guests the opportunity to explore eight islands, including some of the Galápagos’ most remote and wildlife-rich locations. These nine-day itineraries cater to those who wish to go beyond the typical five- or seven-day excursions, offering more opportunities to discover the natural wonders of the islands at a leisurely pace.

The Islands of Fire Adventure: A Deeper Dive into Galápagos Wildlife

The Islands of Fire Adventure, hosted aboard Isabela II, starts at $9,208 per person and covers eight stunning islands across the archipelago. Highlights of the trip include a visit to Santa Cruz Island, home to the Charles Darwin Research Station, and Bartolomé Island, famous for its penguin snorkelling opportunities. Guests will also explore Santiago Island, where they can visit the Buccaneer Cove cliffs and spot fur seals and penguins near Chinese Hat.

Other stops include Fernandina Island, one of the most pristine islands in the Galápagos, and Genovesa Island, known for its seabird colonies, including the red-footed boobies and Nazca boobies. The Islands of Fire Adventure provides an in-depth look at the region’s diverse ecosystems, from volcanic landscapes to rich marine life.

Origin of the Species Adventure: A Journey to the Heart of Galápagos History

The Origin of the Species Adventure, offered aboard La Pinta, is priced from $11,974 per person and focuses on the islands’ historic significance and unparalleled wildlife. Starting in Baltra, the itinerary covers islands such as South Plaza and Santa Fe, both famous for their populations of land iguanas and sightings of the Galápagos hawk.

A highlight of this journey is the visit to Española Island, a sanctuary for seabird colonies, including blue-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, and frigatebirds. Additionally, guests can enjoy snorkelling at Gardner Bay and a trip to the secluded Eden Islet, known for its rich marine life. The trip concludes with a visit to Genovesa Island, where travellers can witness short-eared owls, along with red-footed boobies and frigatebirds, creating an unforgettable end to the voyage.

Metropolitan Touring: A Legacy of Exploration and Conservation

Founded in the 1950s, Metropolitan Touring is known for its commitment to sustainable tourism and educational experiences in the Galápagos Islands. The company offers one of the most eco-friendly and expertly guided cruising experiences, prioritising the protection of the islands’ delicate ecosystems. By focusing on small, intimate groups and expert-led excursions, Metropolitan Touring ensures that its guests experience the natural beauty of the Galápagos without disrupting the local environment.

Both new itineraries feature luxurious accommodations, all-inclusive dining, and immersive excursions led by knowledgeable naturalists, giving guests unparalleled access to the islands’ diverse wildlife. The intimate nature of these voyages ensures that each stop is an opportunity to deeply engage with the environment, whether on land or in the water.

Expanding Opportunities for Galápagos Adventure

These extended nine-day voyages reflect a growing trend in the travel industry toward longer itineraries that offer deeper connections to destinations. The Galápagos Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offer one of the world’s most unique ecosystems, and these new itineraries aim to provide a more comprehensive experience for travellers.

For those seeking an extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime trip, the Islands of Fire Adventure and Origin of the Species Adventure offer access to some of the most remote and biodiverse islands in the archipelago. These voyages cater to travellers who want more than a snapshot of the Galápagos; they want a complete, immersive exploration of the islands’ history, wildlife, and natural beauty.

An Unmatched Adventure in the Galápagos Islands

Metropolitan Touring’s nine-day itineraries are set to redefine the Galápagos travel experience in 2026. These voyages, which combine expert-led excursions, luxurious accommodations, and exceptional wildlife encounters, offer a unique opportunity for those seeking to fully immerse themselves in the wonders of the islands. Whether exploring the fire-scarred landscapes of Isabela Island or observing seabird colonies on Genovesa Island, these itineraries offer the chance to experience the Galápagos like never before.

These itineraries, for travelers who wish to go beyond normal Galápagos cruises, are an amazing way to explore the intricacies of the islands and to get intimate with the natural phenomena in a spirited way.

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