Experience a unique walking journey in areas usually limited to boat itineraries.
Each step leaves behind the boundaries of your own world and leads you deeper into a new world; one of nature, adventure and personal discovery. Explore off the beaten path lava trails in search of exotic and friendly wildlife on untouched beaches, bays, and the highlands.
Spend more time trekking, swimming and snorkeling and stay in the best available accommodations, accompanied by a friendly knowledgeable naturalist guide. A perfect trip for groups and families of all ages!
Highlights
• Hike lava rock trails to meet blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, and sea lions
• Snorkel with tropical fish, hammerhead and white-tipped sharks
• Explore Miconia forest trails and meet giant tortoises in the Santa Cruz cloud forest
• Walk the rim of the Sierra Negra, the world’s second largest volcano caldera
• Experience the wonder of the Galápagos finch species that inspired Charles Darwin
• Relax on picture-perfect white sand beaches
• Enjoy more active hikes than with boat-based tours, for more wildlife encounters
• Top-notch adventure and nature guides accompany you every step of your journey
This trip is perfect for families and travelers who want to see amazingly beautiful scenery and wildlife without undergoing harsh conditions and discomfort. ...view more details
Day 1: Arrival in San Cristobal - Hike in Frigate Hill - Snorkel in Darwin Bay
We meet you when you arrive on San Cristobal Island and welcome you with a lunch and an orientation at a local restaurant. After lunch, our adventure begins with a hike to the San Cristóbal Interpretation Center, where we learn about the volcanic formation of the Galápagos archipelago and the evolution of life on the islands. We continue our hike towards Frigate Hill along trails of lava rock featuring splendid views of the coastline and Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, while we explore dry forest and observe cacti, acacia, palo santo, Galápagos cotton, and other endemic vegetation.
This is also a good time to enjoy our first encounters with local wildlife, since Frigate Hill is often visited by the Chattam lava lizard, and bird species such as the magnificent and great frigate birds, blue-footed boobies, brown pelicans, gulls, herons, Darwin finches, warblers, and mockingbirds. On our way back we can stop for a refreshing swim at Carola Beach or Mann Beach.
In the late afternoon, we visit the San Cristóbal Interpretation Center, where we learn about the volcanic formation of the Galápagos archipelago and the evolution of life on the islands. In the evening, we explore town and dine at a waterfront restaurant. Our first evening is free to explore this tranquil port town. Overnight in San Cristobal. (L)
Day 2: Snorkeling and Exploring the Northern Coast
After breakfast, our adventure begins with a hike to El Junco, the island’s main active volcano crater and lake located 2,300 feet (700 meters) above sea level. This crater lagoon is one of the few permanent freshwater bodies in the entire archipelago. The lagoon is home to white-cheeked pintail ducks, common gallinules, frigate birds, and many other endemic species. We continue on to La Galapaguera in Cerro Colorado, a new facility operated by the National Park to breed and protect the subspecies of giant turtles endemic to San Cristobal (Geochelone chathamensis).
In the afternoon, we visit Leon Dormido, the jagged remains of an old tuff cone whose flanks are home to thousands of sea birds. At Leon Dormido, we enjoy excellent snorkelling; for certified divers, this is also one of the best dives in the islands. You’re almost guaranteed to get postcard-quality pictures if you bring an underwater camera with you. There is a good chance of seeing hammerhead and white-tipped sharks, eagle and golden rays, as well as dozens of species of tropical fish, clams, starfish, and marine invertebrates. In the evening, we return to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno and spend the night in San Cristobal. (B, L)
Day 3: Visit Lonesome George & Hike in El Chato Reserve
After breakfast, we take a fast boat from San Cristobal to Santa Cruz Island. Here, we visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn about conservation and management projects in the archipelago. The research station is also home to Lonesome George, a photogenetic giant tortoise who is the very last of his species of Pinta Island tortoise.
Afterwards, we drive to El Chato reserve in the upper part of Santa Cruz Island – the natural habitat of the large Galápagos tortoise. As we seek these lumbering giants, we’ll also come across pintail ducks, egrets, flycatchers, finches, and frigate birds bathing in freshwater lakes. We explore fascinating lava caves featuring incredible volcanic tunnel formations that were used by pirates in the eighteenth century, and on a clear day we can see Media Luna, an old collapsed crater on top of Santa Cruz Island. In the evening we are free to explore excellent dining options and nightlife in the Galapagos’ most populous town. (B, L)
Day 4: Hike to El Puntudo & Tortuga Bay
Today we hike into the amazing cloud forest highlands of Santa Cruz Island. On the way to the summit of Cerro Crocker (the highest point on the island at 864 meters), we'll have another chance to see giant tortoises in their natural habitat and observe other intriguing wildlife like the vermillion flycatcher. This hike will also bring us closer to fabulous vistas of the Media Luna crater. Following a trail through Miconia forest, we reach a lookout point with amazing views of the coastline below.
In the afternoon, we go on a soft hike to Tortuga Bay’s pristine white sand beaches, where sea turtles go to lay their eggs. Considered the best in the archipelago, these beaches and their dry forest habitat offer a peaceful spot for the nature lover. Also found here are pelicans, Darwin finches, Galápagos mockingbirds, doves, and marine iguanas. These paths offer excellent opportunities for bird watching. In the evening, we return to spend our final relaxing evening in Santa Cruz. (B, L)
Day 5: Hike and Exploration in Isabela
From Puerto Ayora, we board a fast boat for Puerto Villamil on Isabela Island. Isabela is the largest island in the archipelago, formed by 5 shield volcanoes: Alcedo, Cerro Azul, Darwin, Sierra Negra, and Wolf. All of these volcanoes (except for one) remain active, making this island one of the most volcanically active places on Earth. Here, we visit the Galápagos Tortoise Rearing Center, to learn about tortoise development and conservation.
We explore the bay for wildlife and follow a trail along the coastline to observe dramatic lava formations, find Isabela marine iguanas socializing with one another, and meet a large colony of sea lions. We pass through mangroves and salty lagoons that are home to the mangrove finch, endemic to Isabela. We can also spot American oyster catchers, herons, flamingos, and many other shore birds. In the afternoon, we relax on exotic white sand beaches. The evening is spent in the tranquil port town of Puerto Villamil. (B, L, D)
Day 6: Volcano Discovery Hike in the Highlands
From Puerto Villamil, we drive to the highlands of Isabela Island to prepare for a hike that will take us on trails across irregular terrain to arrive at the rim of the Sierra Negra volcano. On a clear day, the view from the Sierra Negra feels like a spiritual awakening. Sierra Negra is an active volcano, which last erupted in October 2005, and is also the second largest caldera in the world.
We hike around the rim of the crater, from which you have a fantastic view of the 6x5 mile-wide (9x8 kilometer) lava-filled caldera, the other Isabela volcanoes, and the Perry Isthmus beyond. From here, we hike to Chico Volcano, with its puffing fumaroles and striking lava formations, examples of the dramatic geological events that have forged the Galápagos Islands over millennia. In the late afternoon, we return to Puerto Villamil for our last evening on the “Enchanted Islands.” (B, L, D)
Day 7: Transfer to Baltra & Return Flight
In the morning, we return to Santa Cruz Island, to transfer by bus to Baltra Island for our flight back to the continent.
**PLEASE NOTE** This itinerary is subject to change without notice due to seasonal changes, last-minute weather conditions, and adjustments of Galápagos National Park policy.
This provider can help with your other additional needs
local flights
transfers
additional accomodations
trip extensions
... and other requirements.
Request these additional services when you check availability above
What's Included
- Accommodations in tourist superior hotels
- Meals as described (dinner is only included on Isabela Island)
- Snorkeling gear
- Professional English speaking guide
- Professional Galápagos naturalist guide
- Land and sea transportation.
Not Included
- Airfare to/from Galapagos (subject to change),
- Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee (subject to change)
- Meals not mentioned above
- Hotel & restaurant beverages
- Tips, gratuities or personal expenses.
- Accommodations in tourist superior hotels
- Meals as described (dinner is only included on Isabela Island)
- Snorkeling gear
- Professional English speaking guide
- Professional Galápagos naturalist guide
- Land and sea transportation.
Not Included
Not Included
- Airfare to/from Galapagos (subject to change),
- Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee (subject to change)
- Meals not mentioned above
- Hotel & restaurant beverages
- Tips, gratuities or personal expenses.
Notes
Trip Notes
This itinerary is subject to change without notice due to seasonal changes, last minute weather conditions and adjustment of Galapagos National Park policy.
Transportation to Trip Departure Point
Arriving to trip starting point
Transportation is not included but must be purchased from provider
Type of transportation available to trip starting point
Commercial flight
Arriving to trip starting point description:
Flights vary depending on trip date.
Transportation On Trip
Transportation Description
When traveling between islands the trip will be 2-3 hours.
Transportation Types
Motor Boat Commercial Airplane
Average hours/day travel
2-3 hours per stretch
Lodging - Accommodations
What are the accommodations like?
You will be staying in a standard class 3 star hotel for this trip. You will find yourselfe very comfortable at this hotel.
Lodging Types
6 Nights hotels
Details
Provider Social and Environmental Responsibility
Community Involvement
Ecuador is rich in indigenous communities with claims to thousands of acres of
ancestral territories. Ecuador Adventure is actively involved in helping such
communities develop sustainable hospitality practices that preserve the forest in
harmony with their age old way of life.
Indigenous Guides
Many services engage the participation of local guides, porters, or assistants,
respected experts in their local areas. Ecuador Adventure guarantees fair
employment conditions far surpassing those required by law, where each indigenous
crew member is not only treated with dignity, but also as a partner and friend.
Eco Tourism Lectures
Ecuador Adventure staff educates and shares the importance of preserving the
environment through university and high school lectures on the benefits of
Community Based Eco-tourism (CBE) projects as a sustainable alternative to the
increasing pressures to exploit land, water and communities for short-sighted gain.
We are an active member of Ecuador's Ecotourism Association,
www.ecoturismo.org.ec.
Safe Camping and Environmental Standards
During overnight outdoor trips and expeditions, Ecuador Adventure abides by
and exceeds national and international camping and environmental standards.
Illegal Environmental Practices
On occasion, Ecuador Adventure witnesses irresponsible individuals, companies,
and even governments who exploit Ecuador's environment irrationally. This is not
taken lightly. We document and denounce such illegal practices as we encounter
them to the competent authorities. Better results are sometimes obtained through
public pressure by sending our complaints and images to the media, including local
newspapers and television networks.
What special equipment will we use on this trip? Tell me about it.
We will provide any specific equipment needed for this trip. Make sure to bring water sandals, hard sole walking shoes, a raincoat, a flashlight, a water bottle, non-cotton trekking gear, sun block, a hat and mosquito repellent.
Tell me about the guides on this trip
Our multi-lingual adventure sports and naturalist guides are among the finest in Ecuador. They have been leading adventure, nature and educational tours for many years, for visitors from all over the world. Not only are they fluent in English, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, and French, but also have strong and likeable personalities. On assignment, safety is their main priority. Strong field experience and quality training is the assurance that your expedition will navigate smoothly through Ecuador's array of alternatives. Ecuador Adventure's lead guides are accomplished athletes; they have won Ecuador's National Rafting Championship and competed internationally in the Latin American event. Ecuador Adventure guides are also involved in adventure racing, motocross, mountain biking, kayaking and other races and local events. Yet others are experts in history, biology, anthropology and ornithology. Each brings his or her own personality and field of expertise to the interpretation of Ecuador's nature, history and culture.
Tell me about the safety precautions and plans for this trip.
Ecuador Adventure guides meet and exceed qualifications and requirements:
Wilderness Emergency Medicine - First Responder
Kayak Instructor - American Canoe Association
Ecuadorian National Guide Certification - Ministry of Tourism
Ecuadorian Mountain Association - ASEGUIM
Rock Rescue - American Mountain Guide Association
Professional Paddle Association
Swift Water Rescue
Open Water Rescue
Red Cross
CPR - American Heart Association
Five years minimum experience requirement
Guide Training Program - Ecuador Adventure
Maximum Age
None
Elevation Range (Max, Min)
Sea level to 600m
Average Temperatures
December to May: 80ºF to 90ºF / 25ºC to 30ºC. June to September: 60ºF to 70ºF / 15ºC to 20ºC. October to December: 70ºF to 80ºF/ 15ºC to 25ºC
Weather
WATER TEMPERATURE: The waters of the Galapagos Islands are a unique mixture of warm and cold water, ranging between 65ºF and 85ºF.
Travel Provider
Provider Name
Ecuador Adventure
Why should I choose this provider?
Our travel professionals offer unrivalled attention to detail, safety issues and service standards. Ecuador Adventure's serves more than 1,000 clients each year, including many of Ecuador's top 50 companies in the travel and business industries.
Provider Policies
Terms and Conditions
ECUADOR ADVENTURE reserves the right to change or withdraw any travel arrangements when deemed necessary in the best interests of our clients. This is especially applicable when faced with unforeseen weather conditions that prevent us from running a trip safely. We reserve the right to refuse, accept or retain any passenger from our trips should he or she jeopardize group safety or engage in illegal, vv or offensive behavior. Luggage travels at owner's risk throughout the tour, although we provide all necessary precautions. Complementary traveler insurance is available upon request. All passengers must sign a liability / responsibility release prior to their trip. We are not responsible for cancellation of any services due to natural disasters, social upheavals or other circumstances out of our control.
Pricing policies:
Our trips DO NOT include local airfare. Prices vary according to season. We reserve, reconfirm and sell airline tickets for local flights, or reconfirm your international flights at no additional cost.
Our trips DO NOT include entrance fees to National Parks, Private Reserves, or protected areas.
Cancellation Policies:
All groups or individuals are subject to a cancellation fee if cancellation is done less than 30 days prior to departure.
On all group and individual cancellations for Galapagos and land services, USD 50.00 handling fee per person will be forfeited as penalty.
For land services, if cancellation is received:
- 30/20 days prior 30% of the full price will be forfeited
- 19/10 days prior 50% of the full price will be forfeited
- 9/5 days prior 75% of the full price will be forfeited
- 4 days 100% of the full price will be forfeited
For Galapagos Multisport, Galapagos Kayaking or Galapagos Trekking tours:
If cancellation is received between 90 and 60 days prior departure no cancellation penalty will be applied.
If cancellation is received between 60 and 30 days prior to the date our services are due to begin, 25% of the full price per person will be forfeited.
If cancellation is received between 29 and 15 days before our services are due to begin, 50% of the full price per person will be forfeited.
If cancellation is received between 14 days and 0 days full payment is not refundable.
Should a group member cancel after final confirmation, he should be replaced by another member in order to avoid the cancellation fee.
Refund Policies:
If cancellation is received between 14 days and 0 days before the operation of services and the same is due to medical reasons, we will refund 50% of the full price of the program and will require copy of the certifications that prove injury or illness.
Calculate your carbon footprint and offset with carbon credits for a carbon neutral trip. Learn more...
TESTIMONIALS
I would recommend this trip to a friend in a second. The trip to the Galapagos was Outstanding. The Letty was wonderful; the naturalists were the greatest; the food was superb; the crew excellent; (I\'m running out of adjectives) I would recommend the whole thing and your agency also. You really provided excellent service and information. I felt I could email or call you with any questions and I knew you would answer quickly and I felt honestly. For just taking a chance finding you on the internet, I was very fortunate.
-- Joyce P, Galapagos Islands on the Eric, Letty, Flamingo I
The Inca trail trek can only be described as magical. I tried my best to be cynical, but it didn’t work. This trip was pure magic and absolutely perfect.
The logistics of the trip were impeccable. The ground transportation was on time and they made sure I was able to obtain my boarding pass and pay the airport tax at each leg of the trip.
Out on the hike, my guide Oswaldo was fabulous.
The food on the trail was amazing. The chef created simple and fresh meals that were bursting with local flavor.
-- Terry B, Inca Trail 5-day with Andean Adventures
Just returned from Costa Rica last night ... trip was a GREAT SUCCESS! We all thank you VERY MUCH for arranging the trip.
-- Bob Fenchel, Custom Costa Rica with Camino Travel
We’ve been home just over a week now and I just wanted to send you a quick note to let you just how fantastically well everything went! Ok, so we did end up paying the full whack (which I’ve decided just not to think about!). However, we had a fantastic guide and everything ran really smoothly and we had a fantastic time. From being collected from the hotel (Vieja Cuba which was lovely) to being looked after once we got to the Galapagos it was all just perfect, so thank you very much for being an important part of our fabulous trip.
Cheers Greg !
-- Marayka K., Galapagos Multisport 7-Day Adventure