Situated in the Pacific Ocean over 1500km off the coast of Equador, the 19 islands of the Galapagos and the surrounding marine reserve have been referred to as a ‘living museum and showcase of evolution’. Begin your journey in the city of Quito – Equador’s capital city, rich in history and vibrant South American culture. Situated at an altitude of 9,350 feet, you’ll stand on the equatorial line at the Middle of the World Park and Museum. Fly to Baltra, Galapagos and travel by Zodiac to meet your Celebrity cruise ship, the Celebrity Expedition. Here, while travelling in Celebrity’s small ship luxury accommodations with five star cuisine, explore the islands and incredible, preserved wildlife of the Galapagos via Zodiac, swimming, kayaking, snorkeling or walking/hiking. Some highlights among many, may include: Rabida, a small island south of Santiago, best known for its amazingly red sand and eroded volcanic landscape. With its black sand beach, coastal tide pools, and blue-water grottos, Egas Port on Santiago Island offers a wonderful taste of the Galapagos and the opportunity to see shore birds, Galapagos Hawks, sea lions, marine iguanas, and Galapagos fur seals. Historically an anchorage for pirates and whalers, Tagus Cove on Isabela Island offers a breathtaking view of Isabela, its volcanoes, and spectacular Darwin Lake. Next, Artolomé Island hosts one of the region’s most often photographed views, and a spectacular geologic setting. Its barren moon-like volcanic landscapes, spatter cones, and pinnacle rock make for a unique stop. It is also home to the endemic Galapagos penguin and provides an excellent opportunity for snorkeling. Las Bachas Beach (Santa Cruz) is located in the north of Santa Cruz Island. Its soft, white sand is derived from decomposed coral, making it a favorite nesting site for sea turtles. This Island is famous for the scientific investigation led by Peter and Rosemary Grant on the finches’ population, one of the most important studies on the field that supports Charles Darwin’s Theory. The cliff shore of the island is home to sea lions, pelicans, blue-footed boobies, and tropical birds. On Genovesa Island, Darwin Bay’s soft white sand is only the beginning of a spectacular excursion. A trail from the beach takes you into lush mangroves where red-footed boobies nest. Snorkeling is a must here, as the nutrient-rich water attracts all types of marine life, including sharks, sea lions, sea turtles, and the occasional manta ray. Puerto Ayora Santa Cruz Island is the main population center of the islands, and home to the National Park Service tortoise-breeding center and the Charles Darwin Research Station. Here you will have the opportunity to visit the tortoise-breeding center and walk through the Charles Darwin Research Station. In addition, you can also take a bus ride to the highlands to observe giant tortoises in the wild and walk through a lava tunnel. The stunning raw experience of the Galapagos is like nothing you’ve ever experienced – those seeking this bucket list adventure will be forever changed.