HX Expeditions has announced a three-year extension of its successful partnership with Metropolitan Touring, the longest-established travel operator in the Galápagos, founded in 1953, in which HX holds a significant minority stake. The original five-year charter agreement will now continue through 2029, reaffirming both organizations shared commitment to responsible, science-led exploration in one of the planet’s most ecologically significant regions.
As HX approaches its 130th anniversary in 2026, the company continues to deepen its presence in the Galápagos. HX has operated carbon-neutral expedition cruises in the archipelago since launching its program in 2022 onboard Santa Cruz ll. The 50-cabin vessel, fully upgraded in 2021, features a locally inspired restaurant, Science Center, Discovery Room, sky deck, fitness center, hot tubs, and 36 interconnecting cabins—more than any other ship in the archipelago and ideal for families.
The Galápagos Islands, situated 621 miles off the coast of South America, are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with 97 percent of the land protected as a national park and the surrounding waters forming one of world’s largest marine reserves. HX will offer two Galápagos itineraries, each with extended versions that include Machu Picchu:
- Eastern Route: In Darwin’s Footsteps (9 days): It’s the original itinerary HX introduced when it launched its Galápagos program in 2022, focusing on Santa Cruz, Española and San Cristobal.
- In Darwin’s Footsteps Plus Machu Picchu (14 days): It combines the full Eastern Route with a 5-day Machu Picchu pre-program starting in Lima, ideal for guests seeking a dual-destination adventure pairing the Galápagos’ wildlife with one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites.
- Northern & Western Route: Nine of the Best Isles (11 days): Starting from Quito, guests can explore nine of the archipelago’s most captivating islands. With kayaking, snorkelling, and wildlife encounters at every turn, this is an adventure filled with wonder.
- Nine of the Best Isles Plus Machu Picchu (16 days): Starting in Lima, guests visit Machu Picchu and nine of the most captivating Galápagos Islands on this combined land-and-sea adventure.
New Season Launch and Dedicated Brochure
Bookings for HX’s 2027 and 2028 seasons will open online on 22 December 2025. This milestone coincides with the release of a new standalone HX Galápagos brochure, launching in January 2026, alongside a series of exclusive films featuring newly appointed HX ambassador Monty Halls, president of the Galapagos Conservation Trust.
Responsible Travel
The extended agreement underscores HX’s leadership in responsible, science-led expedition travel, ensuring that guests experience the Galápagos with expert guidance, deep cultural connection, and minimal environmental impact. By partnering long-term with Metropolitan Touring—one of the most respected conservation-focused organizations in the region, HX continues to support local communities and help safeguard a destination that is irreplaceable on the global stage.
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