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Trip

Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

Multi-Sport

Trip Galapagos
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Questions? Let us help! Call us at 1-866-386-1590
Hike, bike, kayak and snorkel your way through some of the most untouched natural habitats on Earth on this Galapagos adventure. 
Immerse yourself in the pure nature of the enchanting Galapagos Islands. Made famous by Charles Darwin, this volcanic paradise is home to spectacular endemic species of flora and fauna found nowhere else on earth. Take the leap and join us on this island-hopping adventure with our partners at Activexpedition where you can explore the best of the Archipelago. Hike up volcanoes, snorkel with sea turtles, scout rays and admire white-tip reef sharks. Paddle to watch blue-footed boobies dance and colorful marine iguanas scamper about black volcanic rock. Bike and hike along the countryside to protected reserves where giant tortoises roam and call these islands home. Enjoy the island vibe within towns and hotels near beaches and mangroves, taking to heart that your travels are directly benefiting local families and sustainable tourism efforts. Grab your cameras and pack your bags for the adventure of a lifetime!

If you are interested in booking this trip, please visit our partners webiste ActivExpedition


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Itinerary
Itinerary
Even though we have a detailed itinerary, changes can be made by your guides, due to weather or safety reasons. Please also note that none of the wildlife sightings mentioned on the itinerary are guaranteed.
  • 1
    Day number 1
    Arrive! Welcometo Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and cultural capital of South America. This day is designed to be at your leisure, so you can acclimate, rest and explore the beautiful city of Quito on your own terms. Explore the colonial streets, chocolate shops and artisan markets before a trek up to El Panecillo for stunning panoramas of the entire town. If you feel like having a guided day tour to learn more about this Andean gem, no problem! We are more than happy to arrange an expert guide to help you learn more about the city and surrounding areas. Regroup at 6PM in the hotel’s lobby to meet your weeks guide, the rest of the group and hear an orientation of what’s in store for your coming adventure!
  • 2
    Day number 2
    Travel day to Galapagos. Rise and shine! This morning we will be picked up and taken to the airport for a three hour flight to Baltra followed by a road and water transport to Isabela Island, one of the youngest islands in the Galapagos. Isabela is a mostly uninhabited island and remains a sanctuary for wildlife, being home to animals such as iguanas, flamingos, giant tortoises and even penguins. Upon arrival, we will check into the hotel for an evening of rest and relaxation, and a sparkling sunset.
  • 3
    Day number 3
    Biking Exploration. After breakfast we will head out on our day’s adventure, biking along an exclusive road around the side of the island. Each stop on our journey will take us to leisurely walking trails with impressive views of differing landscapes, immersing us in the diverse ecosystem of the island. Highlighting our ride is a stop at Playa del Amor and the Tortoise Breeding Center. Playa del Amor, or Love Beach, is home to the largest population of iguanas on the Island. Lounging about, these marine creatures are exclusive to the Galapagos, having the ability to forage underwater. At the Tortoise Breeding Center we will learn of the impressive efforts of workers at the National Park in the preservation of the tortoise population. Our day finishes with five hours of exploration though richly diverse environments at the flamingo lagoon.
  • 4
    Day number 4
    Lava Tunnels. Enter a world unlike any other at Los Tuneles. Famous for its arch like volcanic formations, this ecosystem brims with different species of animals and serves as a nesting ground for blue-footed boobies. Possible sightings include white-tip reef sharks, penguins, golden rays, eagle rays, and many others! Discover the area from above and below as our day’s expedition takes us by boat, snorkel and foot. Lunch will be served on board followed by more exploration until we return back to town.
  • 5
    Day number 5
    Kayaking Wildlife Excursion. The morning is yours to rest, spa or explore the beautiful island. In the afternoon we will go kayaking to Tintoreras, an islet of jagged volcanic rock formations that form small underwater canyons thriving with wildlife. Be on the lookout for feisty penguins and blue-footed boobies roaming the dramatic porous rock. Want to get up close and personal? Submerge in the crystal clear ocean waters for more snorkeling adventures in search of fish, turtles, and sea lions.
  • 6
    Day number 6
    Charles Darwin Station and Giant Tortoises Reserve. Seize the day with an early rise and boat ride to the Island of Santa Cruz, home to the Charles Darwin Research Station. Witness the tireless efforts of researchers and conservationists in hopes to repopulate the island with different species of tortoise. Although you will see many different types of tortoise at the station’s breeding center, our second stop of the day will take us up to ‘El Chato,’ a reserve in the highlands for an up close and personal experience to see these giants in their natural habitat. Explore lava tunnels that litter the property while these gentle creatures lounge in mud baths. Our day ends back in town where you can enjoy an evening stroll through Puerto Ayora and its boat docks where sharks and rays can be spotted playing in the lights below.
  • 7
    Day number 7
    Return to Quito. Today starts with a transfer back to Baltra for our return flights to Quito. Average time back to the city is 2-3 hours (depending on if your flight is direct or with a stop in Guayaquil).
  • 8
    Depart. Eat breakfast, purchase souvenirs or partake in any last minute events in conclusion to our week-long Galapagos adventure. If you wish to stay longer, please don’t hesitate to ask. We can help you organize an extension trip to places you wish to visit during your stay. Safe travels!
Trip Package Includes
 
  • Experienced certified English-speaking guide
  • Private and comfortable land transportation
  • Accommodation for seven nights (based on double occupancy)
  • Meals included: 6 breakfasts and 1 lunch (on boat)
  • Water and snacks at all times
  • Water bottle
  • Biking gear: Quality hybrid bikes, certified helmets and gloves
  • Paddling gear: Seat on top double kayaks and paddles
  • Snorkeling gear: Mask and fins
  • 20% off discount code to evo.com (exclusions apply) 
Not Included
 
  • International flights
  • Airport transfers to/from international flights (we will meet at the hotel lobby in Quito on Day 1)
  • Domestic flights. Airfare Quito - Galapagos - Quito round trip: estimated Budget $520 USD
  • INGALA transit card (needed to enter the islands): $20 USD per person, cash only (subject to change)
  • Galapagos National Park fee - $100 USD per person, cash only (subject to change)
  • Isabela Island fee: $10 USD per person, cash only upon arrival 
  • Meals not listed as included (some breakfasts, lunches and dinners) 
  • Optional activities (spas, recreations and activities outside provided itinerary)
  • Wetsuit for rent (optional) - $10 USD
  • Single supplement
  • Tips for guides and drivers
  • Travel insurance (mandatory, we recommend World Nomads)

Questions? Call or email us!

Please inform Activexpedition of any existing medical conditions (i.e. pregnancy, diabetes, etc). Yellow fever, Hepatitis B vaccination, and Malaria medication are mandatory for this trip. We strongly recommend to ensure that routine immunizations such as tetanus and diphtheria are up to date and to consider Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccinations. Please ask your doctor for advice.
 
Area Information
The Galapagos Islands
Our adventure will explore some of the enchanting Galapagos Islands chain located 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador. Made up of 19 islands, 4 of which are inhabited by humans, the archipelago is one of the most biologically diverse regions in the world. Home to many endemic species such as the Flightless Cormorant, the Galapagos Penguin, and the giant Galapagos Tortoise, these isolated islands inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection following his visit in 1835. Today the Islands are still home to many research and conservation efforts along with plenty of educational opportunities, such as the Charles Darwin Research Center (which we will visit on our trip). Aside from its biological diversity, the islands are home to beautiful tropical ecosystems with white sand beaches and crystal clear waters.
Trip Planning

Trip Planning

On this Galapagos adventure travel package, you will experience a great diversity of Island ecosystems, including giant tortoise reserves, lava tunnels, white sand beaches, and warm tropical ocean waters. The Galapagos Islands have two main seasons, dry season and wet (warm) season. June - December is the dry season and generally known for its clear skies and occasional mid-day showers, average air temps are in the mid 70’s and water temps average in the low 70’s. December - May is the wet, or warm, season with more frequent rain and cloudier skies. Temps are warmer, averaging in the mid 80’s, and water temps are in the high 70’s. Remember that during our time in Quito, the weather will be a little colder, at an elevation of 9,300 ft, it averages from the high 60’s in the day to high 40’s at night.  Please refer to the packing list and as a rule of thumb, pack light! We recommend the use of a duffel bag (50 liters) for the main luggage and a daypack (20 liters) with a rain cover for outdoor activities.

Gear & Clothing
Personal
FAQ
FAQ
  • Are departures guaranteed?
    There is a minimum of 2 people required per departure date, with each trip departing on a Sunday. Please wait to make travel arrangements until you have received confirmation.
  • Is there a Single Supplement if I am a solo traveler? Can I book my own room?
    There is a minimum of 2 people required per departure date. Please wait to make travel arrangements until you have received confirmation that there are at least one other person on this trip to operate. Generally a single supplement fee is not incurred, as we match you with another person of the same gender in a twin room. If you prefer not to share and have your own room, no problem. In this case a single room supplement of about $525 (based on availability and season) will be needed to cover the extra costs associated with not sharing a room.
  • What skill/experience level is required for this trip?
    This trip is considered as 2 out of 5. No prior experience is required and your guides will always brief you about safety and proper use of gear on every leg of the trip. The hiking is rated easy and consists of walking on flat terrain or coastline. Kayaking is on calm waters, although due to unpredictable weather patterns, waters can at time be cold and choppy. Biking is also rated easy and consists of riding on a mixture of sand and gravel. There will be transport support for the majority of the activities in the case that someone wants to take a break, relax or avoid an activity entirely.
  • What are the guides like?
    All guides have a professional background from the Tourism University; meaning they have a degree in guiding, with top-notch skills and knowledge. Each guide has many years of leading experience, including additional courses taken for other outdoor activities and International First-Aid certifications. On top of all of this, all guides are extremely personable and strive to deliver exceptional travel experiences for each guest.
  • What gear should I bring? Do you offer rentals?
    All sports equipment will be provided. Refer to the packing list for personal gear requirements.
  • When and how do I meet up with the group?
    Please be ready to meet the group on Day 1 at 6 PM in the hotel lobby.
  • What will the food be like?
    Pork, chicken, beef, and cuy (guinea pig) are popular in the Andean highlands of Ecuador, and are served with a variety of carbohydrate-rich foods, especially rice, corn, and potatoes. A popular street food is hornado (roasted pig), which is often served with llapingacho (a pan seared potato ball). Some examples of traditional Ecuadorian cuisine generally include Ecuadorian ceviche (shrimp, lime and corn), hearty quinoa soups, patacones (unripe plantains fried in oil), llapingachos (fried potato pancakes), and seco de chivo (a type of stew made from goat). While in the Galapagos, the dishes are simple, light and fresh, combining the elements of Ecuadorian highlands dishes with meat, potatoes and grains, along with coastal ingredients like yucca, fish and seafood. A local breakfast in the Galapagos Islands typically involves fried dumplings of green plantains (bolones) or fresh fruit.
  • Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
    As Ecuador has a great variety of cuisine and gastronomy, vegetarians, vegans and gluten free options are widely available and welcome. If you have any allergies or food restrictions, please inform Activexpeditions prior to your departure. Our guides are always ready to coordinate with chefs and restaurants for substitute meals and allergy needs.
  • What is the minimum and maximum number of guests per trip?
    Minimum of 2 people and a maximum of 10. Trips usually average 8 people.
  • Is there a minimum age required for this trip?
    Yes, 8 years old.
  • When is the best time to go?
    Since Ecuador is on the equator, weather patterns are fairly consistent meaning it is a great place to travel all year round. The average temperature annually is 64°F (17.8°C). There are only really two seasons in the city: dry and wet. The dry season runs from June to September and the wet season is from October to May. The Galapagos Islands have two main seasons, dry season and wet (warm) season. June - December is the dry season and generally known for its clear skies and occasional mid-day showers, average air temps are in the mid 70’s and water temps average in the low 70’s. December - May is the wet, or warm, season with more frequent rain and cloudier skies. Temps are warmer, averaging in the mid 80’s, and water temps are in the high 70’s. Remember that during our time in Quito, the weather will be a little colder, at an elevation of 9,300 ft, it averages from the high 60’s in the day to high 40’s at night.
  • Do I need a Visa, Passport and Vaccinations?
    A valid passport for at least six months past the planned date of departure is required. Make sure you check your passport validity and expiration date prior to travel. U.S. citizens do not need a visa to enter Ecuador and travelers can stay in Ecuador for up to 90 days without a visa. However, sanctions including fines and deportation can occur if you stay past this time period. Due to the limited medical facilities located on the Galapagos Islands, Yellow fever, Hepatitis B vaccination, and Malaria medication are mandatory for this trip. We strongly recommend to ensure that routine immunizations such as tetanus and diphtheria are up to date and to consider Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccinations. Please ask your doctor or visit a travelers health clinic for advice.
  • Do I need travel insurance?
    While it is not required, we always recommend purchasing travel insurance for all trips. Travel insurance allows you to seek reimbursement if you are forced to cancel your trip for unforeseeable reasons, or if you need to cover medical help, emergency transport, theft and/or accidental damage while traveling. We recommend World Nomads.
  • What about Covid-19?
    We are optimistic that travel will continue to become more plausible with the advent of Covid-19 vaccines, but also understand that there is uncertainty about how quickly these will become widely available to all groups both in the US and abroad. We strongly suggest checking the CDC and WHO for the latest public health guidelines, and if you choose to travel while the pandemic is still underway, that you adhere to recommended health & safety measures before, during, and after your trip. Please note that currently Ecuador requires proof of a negative Covid-19 test result (within 72 hours of departure) in order to enter the country, and that the US currently requires proof of negative Covid-19 test result (within 72 hours of return) in order to re-enter the country.
  • What if I need to cancel?
    evoTrip upholds Activexpedition’s policies regarding cancellation, which have been made more flexible given the challenges we know are presented by Covid-19. Guests may postpone their existing trip to a future trip, at no extra cost, up until 30 days prior to departure. For cancellations, guests have: 72 hours to cancel with no fee, unless the date of start of services falls within said 72 hour period, 3 days after the booking until 90 days before the trip; $100 USD cancellation fee would be charged, 89 days until 60 days before the trip; 50% of the trip cost would be charged, 59 days or less before the trip; 100% of the trip cost would be charged.

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Sorry, this trip is sold out
Sorry, this trip is no longer available

Questions? Let us help! Call us at
1-866-386-1590