Expedition Overview
Experience this 12 Day Galapagos expedition from the comfort of a cruise expedition! The islands offer endless opportunities to witness a unique abundance of wildlife in a setting unlike any other on the planet. This is one of the few places on earth that allows such close and intimate contact with the wildlife. The Galapagos form a natural sanctuary that preserves species, this allowed them to evolve their unique features for countless millennia. This vacation also provides flexible time to spend on your own and explore the sand beaches, trails in the Galapagos Forest, and the lots of wildlife. The tour also provides many benefits to local communities and is socially and environmentally responsible. Be part of this 12 day Galapagos Expedition, an educational and inspirational journey of a lifetime in one of the most fiercely protected marine wilderness’ in the world!
Galapagos Islands
During your time in Santa Cruz & San Cristobal Islands, you’ll stay at comfortable hotels with a style based on the concept of “Local hotels.” They create an environment of absolute comfort and local taste with complete standards of hygiene and presentation. Uniting a familiar amiability with “Galapagueña” soul.
TRANSFERS
Your adventure begins upon arrival at San Cristobal airport in the Galapagos Islands on Day 1 when your host will meet you at national arrivals. On the final day of the trip, your trip will end at Baltra airport. On the mainland, Quito’s airport is around a 45min journey to downtown Quito.
To make your own way from Quito airport to and from the accommodation, you have a few options. You can request a private transfer from the host. Please see Optional Extras for prices. You can take a public bus for just $2USD. However, this isn’t overly straight forward as you need to change buses at Quitumbe bus terminal. A metered taxi will cost you between $25-35USD. You can save some money by taking an ‘Aeroservicio’. A privately operated bus service connecting the airport with the city center. This cost is USD 8.
Itinerary
DAY 1: SAN CRISTOBAL – FREE AFTERNOON
Today begins your first day of adventure. Once you arrive at the airport in San Cristobal a guide will take you to your hotel in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno for the respective check-in. Here you will have a meeting with our experts to give you more information about the itinerary.
The afternoon will be free for you to explore the city, visit the interpretation center or Tijeretas.
Accommodation: Hotel Eco Friendly or similar.
Food & Accommodation
Hotel – Twin or DoubleLunch.
DAY 2: KICKER ROCK
After your first breakfast on the islands, you will go by boat to Kicker Rock, two volcanic rocks 140 meters high. Seen from the south, the rocks resemble a “Leon Dormido” (Sleeping Lion), which is their name in English. Seen from another angle it looks more like a boot, hence its name in English: Kicker Rock. This place is perfect for snorkeling and observing all the marine life in its maximum splendor. After the great activity, you will return to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Accommodation: Hotel Eco Friendly or similar.
Food & Accommodation
Hotel – Twin or DoubleBreakfast.
Lunch.
DAY 3: SAN CRISTOBAL HIGHLANDS
On your third day you will explore the highlands of San Cristobal, your first attraction to see will be the Junco Crater, the only freshwater lake in the Galapagos Islands. Your next stop will be Puerto Chino, a beautiful white sand beach. Here you will witness amazing scenery while observing several sea lions and taking pictures of the cute blue footed boobies. Additionally, you will go to Galapaguera, a breeding center with beautiful wooden walkways and clear indications. This is a perfect place to observe several turtles in the area.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch.
Accommodation: Hotel Eco Friendly or similar.
Food & Accommodation
Hotel – Twin or DoubleBreakfast.
DAY 4: SAN CRISTOBAL FREE DAY
Today you will have the day at leisure to enjoy San Cristobal on your own.
Meals included: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel Eco Friendly or similar.
Food & Accommodation
Hotel – Twin or DoubleBreakfast.
Lunch.
DAY 5: SANTA CRUZ -BAY TOUR- LA LOBERIA
La Loberia
After a revitalizing breakfast, you will head to Santa Cruz, a driver will take you to your hotel where you will meet a member of the staff.
In the afternoon, you will go on an excursion to Santa Cruz Bay, you will transfer by boat to Bahia de la Academia, here you will have the opportunity to snorkel at La Loberia, a place famous for the large amount of sea lions you will see. After enjoying this activity, you will be able to walk to Playa de los Perro.
Meals included: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel Coloma or similar.
Food & Accommodation
Hotel – Twin or DoubleBreakfast.
DAY 6: SANTA FE- PINZON
On your sixth day of adventure, you will discover the Galapagos underwater world. Depending on the day of the week, you will snorkel at Santa Fe Island or Pinzon Island. This will be the perfect opportunity to swim with sea lions, tropical fish, white-tip reef sharks, and more of the wildlife that is present in Galapagos. You will enjoy a delicious lunch on board the boat and then go to enjoy the beach and snorkel again.
In the afternoon you will return to Puerto Ayora.
Meals included: Breakfast and lunch.
Accommodation: Hotel Coloma or similar.
Food & Accommodation
Hotel – Twin or DoubleBreakfast.
Lunch.
DAY 7: SANTA CRUZ-ISABELA
At the beginning of the day you will visit and relax in Tortuga Bay or other places in Puerto Ayora.
In the afternoon you will head to Isabela Island, here you can visit the wetlands, explore the “Wall of Tears” and the famous Flamingo Lagoon.
Meals included: Breakfast.
Accommodation:Hotel Coloma or similar.
Food & Accommodation
Hotel – Twin or DoubleBreakfast.
DAY 8: TINTORERAS
This day you will go on an excursion to Tintoreras islet, famous for being a large crevice, where white tip sharks known as Tintoreras come daily to rest on the bottom. A shuttle will take you to Puerto Villamil, where you will board a boat to go to the other side of the bay. We recommend that you wear closed-toed shoes for the hike through the volcanic rocks. Here you will be amazed by the great fauna you will see, such as Galapagos penguins, sea lions and marine iguanas. You will also be able to snorkel with colorful fish.
Meals included: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel Volcano or similar.
Food & Accommodation
Hotel – Twin or DoubleBreakfast.
DAY 9: LOS TUNELES
Your adventure continues. On this day you will visit Los Tuneles, where you can take a walk observing the amazing landscapes, as well as blue-footed boobies, sea lions, and penguins. Your next stop will be El Finado, where you will find an islet that for many years has been used by local fishermen to rest from their days in the ocean. This place is one of the best spots for snorkeling in Isabela, the waters here are clear and calm, and you can observe seahorses, parrot fish, pig fish, and mullets in their mysterious habitat.
In the afternoon you will return to Puerto Villamil.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Hotel Volcano or similar.
Food & Accommodation
Hotel – Twin or DoubleBreakfast.
Lunch.
DAY 10: ISABELA FREE DAY
This day will start with a delicious breakfast, then get ready because you will have the day free to explore Isabela Island on your own. You will have a bicycle at your disposal for 7 hours to tour the island.
Meals included: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel Volcano or similar.
Food & Accommodation
Hotel – Twin or DoubleBreakfast.
DAY 11: SANTA CRUZ HIGHLANDS
Today will be your last day of your expedition in the Galapagos Islands, according to your flight schedule, you will be transferred to Baltra airport.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch.
Accommodation: Hotel Volcano or similar.
Food & Accommodation
Hotel – Twin or DoubleBreakfast.
Lunch.
DAY 12: TRANSFER OUT
It’ ‘s time to say goodbye, after your last breakfast in the Galapagos Islands, you will travel to Baltra airport, from where you will depart to Quito or Guayaquil.
Meals included: Breakfast.
Food & Accommodation
Hotel – Twin or DoubleBreakfast.
What to Expect
Throughout the adventure, you'll be fueled by delicious local food, such as seafood with plenty of local fresh fruits. Lunch usually consists of soup, main dish and juice, a warm and filling meal after a big day of adventure.
Galapagos Islands
Hotels are based on the concept of “Local hotels.” They create an environment of absolute comfort and local taste with complete standards of hygiene and presentation, uniting a familiar amiability with “Galapagueña” soul.
Pre- post trip accommodation in Quito (Twin/ Double) - USD 100 Per Night
Pre- post trip accommodation in Quito (Single) - USD 100 per Night
Private airport transfer - USD 38 per person
General Specifications
Upon arrival on Day 1
Upon arrival on Day 12
Your adventure begins upon arrival at San Cristobal airport in the Galapagos Islands on Day 1 when your host will meet you at national arrivals. On the final day of the trip, your trip will end at Baltra airport. On the mainland, Quito’s airport is around a 45min journey to downtown Quito.
To make your own way from Quito airport to and from the accommodation, you have a few options. You can request a private transfer from the host. Please see Optional Extras for prices. You can take a public bus for just $2USD, however, this isn't overly straight forward as you need to change buses at Quitumbe bus terminal. A metered taxi will cost you between $25-35USD. You can save some money by taking an 'Aeroservicio' - a privately operated bus service connecting the airport with the city center. This cost is USD 8.
What´s Included
Sea transportation Santa Cruz – San Cristobal islands, comfortable land transportation.
Accommodation in a single, double or triple room.
All described in the itinerary
Snorkeling mask and fins, life vest
Certified expert English-speaking adventure leader and naturalist local guides in Galapagos National Park
Snorkeling equipment
Single Supplement
Airfare Quito - Galapagos - Quito round trip
National & international flights
Travel & health insurance (mandatory)
Not described in the itinerary
INGALA transit card: USD 20 per person, cash only (subject to change), Park fee USD 100 per person, cash only (subject to change)
Wetsuit for rent: USD 10
For guides and drivers
What to bring?
FAQS
What is the minimum age for this trip?
8 years old as a minimum age.
What is the currency?
US American Dollars
What Travel Insurance do you recommend?
World Nomads Insurance with a coverage of USD 200 000
What vaccinations do I need?
For Ecuador Highlands, Covid vaccination is required.
What’s the weather like?
Seasons in Ecuador have nothing to do with temperature – instead there is a dry season and a wet season. In Ecuador, the winter season is hot and wet, and the summer is dry and cold. Ecuador’s dry, summer season falls between May and December. January to April is Ecuador’s wet wintertime. There is not much of a transition between the seasons.
Most of Ecuador has mild temperatures year-round. In the highlands of the Andes, the temperatures are usually cooler and depend of the altitude mainly, the higher the colder, The average temperature in Quito is in the mid-60s Fahrenheit (17 – 18 degrees Celsius). But the average temperature by the snow-cover volcanos can be mid-50s Fahrenheit (10 – 13 degrees Celsius).
What Do I Do about drinking water?
The tap water in Ecuador is not always friendly on the stomach for those who haven’t been in Latin America for a while. There is purified water in each of the accommodation which you can use to fill up each morning, so be sure to pack a reusable water bottle or two. There will also be water in the transportation.
How much should I tip?
Tips are not included in the trip cost. These are entirely at your discretion but there is an expectation to tip for good service. Your guide will help with advice; however, we suggest the below as a guideline per person:
Guides: USD 10- USD 15 per day
Of course, you are free to tip more or less, and the amount should be reflective of your perception of service and quality - a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service
Expedition Overview
Experience this 12 Day Galapagos expedition from the comfort of a cruise expedition! The islands offer endless opportunities to witness a unique abundance of wildlife in a setting unlike any other on the planet. This is one of the few places on earth that allows such close and intimate contact with the wildlife. The Galapagos form a natural sanctuary that preserves species, this allowed them to evolve their unique features for countless millennia. This vacation also provides flexible time to spend on your own and explore the sand beaches, trails in the Galapagos Forest, and the lots of wildlife. The tour also provides many benefits to local communities and is socially and environmentally responsible. Be part of this 12 day Galapagos Expedition, an educational and inspirational journey of a lifetime in one of the most fiercely protected marine wilderness’ in the world!
Galapagos Islands
During your time in Santa Cruz & San Cristobal Islands, you’ll stay at comfortable hotels with a style based on the concept of “Local hotels.” They create an environment of absolute comfort and local taste with complete standards of hygiene and presentation. Uniting a familiar amiability with “Galapagueña” soul.
TRANSFERS
Your adventure begins upon arrival at San Cristobal airport in the Galapagos Islands on Day 1 when your host will meet you at national arrivals. On the final day of the trip, your trip will end at Baltra airport. On the mainland, Quito’s airport is around a 45min journey to downtown Quito.
To make your own way from Quito airport to and from the accommodation, you have a few options. You can request a private transfer from the host. Please see Optional Extras for prices. You can take a public bus for just $2USD. However, this isn’t overly straight forward as you need to change buses at Quitumbe bus terminal. A metered taxi will cost you between $25-35USD. You can save some money by taking an ‘Aeroservicio’. A privately operated bus service connecting the airport with the city center. This cost is USD 8.



Itinerary
DAY 1: SAN CRISTOBAL – FREE AFTERNOON
Today begins your first day of adventure. Once you arrive at the airport in San Cristobal a guide will take you to your hotel in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno for the respective check-in. Here you will have a meeting with our experts to give you more information about the itinerary.
The afternoon will be free for you to explore the city, visit the interpretation center or Tijeretas.
Accommodation: Hotel Eco Friendly or similar.
Food & Accommodation
Hotel – Twin or DoubleLunch.
DAY 2: KICKER ROCK
After your first breakfast on the islands, you will go by boat to Kicker Rock, two volcanic rocks 140 meters high. Seen from the south, the rocks resemble a “Leon Dormido” (Sleeping Lion), which is their name in English. Seen from another angle it looks more like a boot, hence its name in English: Kicker Rock. This place is perfect for snorkeling and observing all the marine life in its maximum splendor. After the great activity, you will return to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Accommodation: Hotel Eco Friendly or similar.
Food & Accommodation
Hotel – Twin or DoubleBreakfast.
Lunch.
DAY 3: SAN CRISTOBAL HIGHLANDS
On your third day you will explore the highlands of San Cristobal, your first attraction to see will be the Junco Crater, the only freshwater lake in the Galapagos Islands. Your next stop will be Puerto Chino, a beautiful white sand beach. Here you will witness amazing scenery while observing several sea lions and taking pictures of the cute blue footed boobies. Additionally, you will go to Galapaguera, a breeding center with beautiful wooden walkways and clear indications. This is a perfect place to observe several turtles in the area.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch.
Accommodation: Hotel Eco Friendly or similar.
Food & Accommodation
Hotel – Twin or DoubleBreakfast.
DAY 4: SAN CRISTOBAL FREE DAY
Today you will have the day at leisure to enjoy San Cristobal on your own.
Meals included: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel Eco Friendly or similar.
Food & Accommodation
Hotel – Twin or DoubleBreakfast.
Lunch.
DAY 5: SANTA CRUZ -BAY TOUR- LA LOBERIA
La Loberia
After a revitalizing breakfast, you will head to Santa Cruz, a driver will take you to your hotel where you will meet a member of the staff.
In the afternoon, you will go on an excursion to Santa Cruz Bay, you will transfer by boat to Bahia de la Academia, here you will have the opportunity to snorkel at La Loberia, a place famous for the large amount of sea lions you will see. After enjoying this activity, you will be able to walk to Playa de los Perro.
Meals included: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel Coloma or similar.
Food & Accommodation
Hotel – Twin or DoubleBreakfast.
DAY 6: SANTA FE- PINZON
On your sixth day of adventure, you will discover the Galapagos underwater world. Depending on the day of the week, you will snorkel at Santa Fe Island or Pinzon Island. This will be the perfect opportunity to swim with sea lions, tropical fish, white-tip reef sharks, and more of the wildlife that is present in Galapagos. You will enjoy a delicious lunch on board the boat and then go to enjoy the beach and snorkel again.
In the afternoon you will return to Puerto Ayora.
Meals included: Breakfast and lunch.
Accommodation: Hotel Coloma or similar.
Food & Accommodation
Hotel – Twin or DoubleBreakfast.
Lunch.
DAY 7: SANTA CRUZ-ISABELA
At the beginning of the day you will visit and relax in Tortuga Bay or other places in Puerto Ayora.
In the afternoon you will head to Isabela Island, here you can visit the wetlands, explore the “Wall of Tears” and the famous Flamingo Lagoon.
Meals included: Breakfast.
Accommodation:Hotel Coloma or similar.
Food & Accommodation
Hotel – Twin or DoubleBreakfast.
DAY 8: TINTORERAS
This day you will go on an excursion to Tintoreras islet, famous for being a large crevice, where white tip sharks known as Tintoreras come daily to rest on the bottom. A shuttle will take you to Puerto Villamil, where you will board a boat to go to the other side of the bay. We recommend that you wear closed-toed shoes for the hike through the volcanic rocks. Here you will be amazed by the great fauna you will see, such as Galapagos penguins, sea lions and marine iguanas. You will also be able to snorkel with colorful fish.
Meals included: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel Volcano or similar.
Food & Accommodation
Hotel – Twin or DoubleBreakfast.
DAY 9: LOS TUNELES
Your adventure continues. On this day you will visit Los Tuneles, where you can take a walk observing the amazing landscapes, as well as blue-footed boobies, sea lions, and penguins. Your next stop will be El Finado, where you will find an islet that for many years has been used by local fishermen to rest from their days in the ocean. This place is one of the best spots for snorkeling in Isabela, the waters here are clear and calm, and you can observe seahorses, parrot fish, pig fish, and mullets in their mysterious habitat.
In the afternoon you will return to Puerto Villamil.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Hotel Volcano or similar.
Food & Accommodation
Hotel – Twin or DoubleBreakfast.
Lunch.
DAY 10: ISABELA FREE DAY
This day will start with a delicious breakfast, then get ready because you will have the day free to explore Isabela Island on your own. You will have a bicycle at your disposal for 7 hours to tour the island.
Meals included: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel Volcano or similar.
Food & Accommodation
Hotel – Twin or DoubleBreakfast.
DAY 11: SANTA CRUZ HIGHLANDS
Today will be your last day of your expedition in the Galapagos Islands, according to your flight schedule, you will be transferred to Baltra airport.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch.
Accommodation: Hotel Volcano or similar.
Food & Accommodation
Hotel – Twin or DoubleBreakfast.
Lunch.
DAY 12: TRANSFER OUT
It’ ‘s time to say goodbye, after your last breakfast in the Galapagos Islands, you will travel to Baltra airport, from where you will depart to Quito or Guayaquil.
Meals included: Breakfast.
Food & Accommodation
Hotel – Twin or DoubleBreakfast.
What to Expect
Throughout the adventure, you'll be fueled by delicious local food, such as seafood with plenty of local fresh fruits. Lunch usually consists of soup, main dish and juice, a warm and filling meal after a big day of adventure.
Galapagos Islands
Hotels are based on the concept of “Local hotels.” They create an environment of absolute comfort and local taste with complete standards of hygiene and presentation, uniting a familiar amiability with “Galapagueña” soul.
Pre- post trip accommodation in Quito (Twin/ Double) - USD 100 Per Night
Pre- post trip accommodation in Quito (Single) - USD 100 per Night
Private airport transfer - USD 38 per person
Ships & Deck Plans
Specifications
General Specifications
Upon arrival on Day 1
Upon arrival on Day 12
Your adventure begins upon arrival at San Cristobal airport in the Galapagos Islands on Day 1 when your host will meet you at national arrivals. On the final day of the trip, your trip will end at Baltra airport. On the mainland, Quito’s airport is around a 45min journey to downtown Quito.
To make your own way from Quito airport to and from the accommodation, you have a few options. You can request a private transfer from the host. Please see Optional Extras for prices. You can take a public bus for just $2USD, however, this isn't overly straight forward as you need to change buses at Quitumbe bus terminal. A metered taxi will cost you between $25-35USD. You can save some money by taking an 'Aeroservicio' - a privately operated bus service connecting the airport with the city center. This cost is USD 8.
What´s Included
Sea transportation Santa Cruz – San Cristobal islands, comfortable land transportation.
Accommodation in a single, double or triple room.
All described in the itinerary
Snorkeling mask and fins, life vest
Certified expert English-speaking adventure leader and naturalist local guides in Galapagos National Park
Snorkeling equipment
Single Supplement
Airfare Quito - Galapagos - Quito round trip
National & international flights
Travel & health insurance (mandatory)
Not described in the itinerary
INGALA transit card: USD 20 per person, cash only (subject to change), Park fee USD 100 per person, cash only (subject to change)
Wetsuit for rent: USD 10
For guides and drivers
What to bring?
FAQS
What is the minimum age for this trip?
8 years old as a minimum age.
What is the currency?
US American Dollars
What Travel Insurance do you recommend?
World Nomads Insurance with a coverage of USD 200 000
What vaccinations do I need?
For Ecuador Highlands, Covid vaccination is required.
What’s the weather like?
Seasons in Ecuador have nothing to do with temperature – instead there is a dry season and a wet season. In Ecuador, the winter season is hot and wet, and the summer is dry and cold. Ecuador’s dry, summer season falls between May and December. January to April is Ecuador’s wet wintertime. There is not much of a transition between the seasons.
Most of Ecuador has mild temperatures year-round. In the highlands of the Andes, the temperatures are usually cooler and depend of the altitude mainly, the higher the colder, The average temperature in Quito is in the mid-60s Fahrenheit (17 – 18 degrees Celsius). But the average temperature by the snow-cover volcanos can be mid-50s Fahrenheit (10 – 13 degrees Celsius).
What Do I Do about drinking water?
The tap water in Ecuador is not always friendly on the stomach for those who haven’t been in Latin America for a while. There is purified water in each of the accommodation which you can use to fill up each morning, so be sure to pack a reusable water bottle or two. There will also be water in the transportation.
How much should I tip?
Tips are not included in the trip cost. These are entirely at your discretion but there is an expectation to tip for good service. Your guide will help with advice; however, we suggest the below as a guideline per person:
Guides: USD 10- USD 15 per day
Of course, you are free to tip more or less, and the amount should be reflective of your perception of service and quality - a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service