Sea Kayak, Multisport Adventures, Hike, Mountain Bike
Destinations:
Galapagos Islands, Galapagos Islands
Min/Max group size:
2
-
10
Comfort:
First Class
Difficulty:
More Difficult
*Details may vary with dates. Select dates to see exact details.
detour Opinion: Is this trip for me?
The Galapagos Premium Multisport Adventure is quickly proving to be one of the most popular trips in the Galapagos! Flying between the islands saves a lot of boat travel, and makes this trip quite a bit more comfortable, especially for those worried about seasickness.
A premium tour package that gives ample opportunities for incredibly close encounters with Galapagos wildlife. Kayak in turquoise waters with penguins & marine turtles, relax on white sand beaches with sea lions, trek through active volcanoes and with the giant tortoise, and snorkel in the world-class marine reserve.
Your journey is lead by a team of first-rate professional adventure and nature guides, combined with top-quality adventure gear, and the unequaled hospitality of the Opuntia Lodges, make this experience the finest Galapagos wildlife adventure tour!
Highlights
• New mountain biking and sea kayaking routes in Isabela Island
• See the best and most beautiful of the three southern Islands
• Sea kayak and swim with sea lions, penguins and marine turtles
• Snorkel with Galapagos sharks, rays, and tropical fish
• Hike on lava rock trails to meet blue-footed boobies, finches, and other famed birds
• Mountain bike through pictorial beach roads
• Hike to volcano calderas and learn from incredible lava formations
• Meet Lonesome George, the last giant tortoise of his species
• Relax on picture-perfect white sand beaches surrounded by Galapagos wildlife
• Incredible close encounters with Galapagos wildlife during active excursions
• Top-rated adventure guides accompany you every step of your journey
We embark on a morning flight to San Cristobal Island. Once we arrive, we are briefed on the details of our trip as we have lunch at an ocean front restaurant. Our adventure begins with a hike to the San Cristobal Interpretation Center, where we learn about the volcanic formation of the Galapagos archipelago and the unique 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, Galapagos 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 Galapagos species such as the magnificent frigate birds, blue-footed boobies, brown pelicans, gulls, herons, and numerous other land birds, including Darwin finches, warblers, and mockingbirds. On our way back we may stop for a refreshing swim at Carola Beach. In the evening, we explore town and dine at a waterfront restaurant. Dinner and Overnight at hotel Casa Opuntia, in San Cristobal Island. (L, D)
DAY 2: KAYAK & SNORKEL IN ISLA LOBOS & LEON DORMIDO
We slip into our ocean kayaks and spend the morning paddling along the coast, going north
exploring bays and coves full of local wildlife – including Darwin Bay, the site of the first
landing of the HMS Beagle. The route is home to colonies of sea lions, marine turtles, blue-
footed boobies, and frigate birds. Once we reach Playa Ochoa, we continue on to nearby
Isla Lobos on the lookout for marine iguanas and sea lions. This is a fantastic snorkelling site
where we are nearly guaranteed to enjoy one of the best sea lion encounters in the entire
archipelago. We continue on to 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.
There is a good chance of seeing Galapagos sharks, eagle and golden rays, as well as dozens of species of tropical fish, clams, starfish, and marine invertebrates. With a little luck, we may also swim with hammerhead and white-tipped sharks. We return to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno for dinner and our last evening in our San Cristobal waterfront hotel. (B, L, D)
DAY 3: MTB COASTLINE EXPLORATION & KAYAK IN TINTORERAS
In the morning we take a small aircraft interisland flight from San Cristobal to Isabela Island.
Isabela is the largest Island in the archipelago, formed by 6 shield volcanoes - Alcedo, Cerro
Azul, Darwin, Ecuador, Sierra Negra and Wolf. All of these volcanoes except one remain
active, making this island one of the most volcanically active places on earth. When we
arrive we set up our mountain bikes to explore the beautiful coastline for its scenery and
wildlife treasures. We begin with a visit to El Muro de las Lágrimas which means Wall of
Tears, a historic site that dates back between 1946 and 1959 when Isabela Island was used
as a penal colony. The wall was built with lava blocks and had no other purpose than of
keeping prisoners busy from the madness of isolation. We continue riding along the coast as
we explore expansive white sand beaches, mangroves and brackish lagoons. This area is
filled with birdlife such as American oyster catchers, herons, flamingos, finches and many
shore birds, as well as sea lions and marine iguanas.
In the afternoon we take our ocean
kayaks and paddle out to Tintoreras, a set of small Islets within Isabela bay. The Islets are
filled with wildlife and are home to the Galapagos Penguin, the only penguin that lives in equatorial region. We will also see sharks, marine turtles, sea lions and much more wildlife
as we explore its many small coves and beaches. (B, L, D)
DAY 4: VOLCANO DISCOVERY HIKE IN THE ISABELA HIGHLANDS
From Puerto Villamil, we drive to the highlands up to where the road ends. Here we prepare
our day packs and walk into a world of recent geological history. We walk on dirt trails until
we arrive to the rim of the Sierra Negra volcano. Sierra Negra is an active volcano which last erupted in October 2005. We explore along the rim of the huge 6x5 mile-wide (9x8 kilometer) lava-filled crater. We may also get views to the other Isabela volcanoes and the Perry Isthmus and beyond.
Optionally, we continue our hike all the way to Volcano Chico, an incredible area that offers puffing fumaroles and extraordinary lava formations, great examples of the dramatic geological events that have forged the Galapagos Islands over millennia. In the afternoon, we return to Puerto Villamil for our last afternoon in its exotic
white beaches. (B, L, D)
DAY 5: HIKE IN SANTA CRUZ ISLAND
In the morning we take a fast boat from Isabela to Santa Cruz Island. On our way we will be
on the lookout for dolphins and whales. Once we arrive we head to El Chato reserve in the
highlands of Santa Cruz Island which is the natural habitat of the incredible Galapagos
Tortoise. We hike in this reserve to learn about these lumbering giants. We also come
across highland wildlife such as pintail ducks, egrets, flycatchers, finches, and frigate birds
bathing in freshwater lakes. We also walk into and explore some amazing volcanic tunnels
that were created by hot flowing lava.
As we walk in these underground geological
formations we revive tales of buccaneers hiding Inca gold. We continue to Los Gemelos, two
volcanic craters near the top of the Island. We walk around these deep craters through a
beautiful Scalesia forest covered with epiphytes and ferns. In this habitat we may see the
short-eared owl, one of the two owls that live in the Islands. We return to town for the evening at Angermeyer Waterfront Inn (B, L, D)
DAY 6: SEA KAYAK IN SANTA CRUZ & HIKE TO TORTUGA BAY
After breakfast, we put-in our kayaks and paddle around Divine Bay and Punta Estrada,
through calm turquoise waters that wind through high-walled lava channels. Within the
channels, white-tipped sharks and rays tour beneath the clear water, while colonies of blue-
footed boobies, tropic birds, herons, crabs and marine iguanas perch along the jagged cliffs.
In the afternoon, we hike to Tortuga Bay, a beautiful white sand beach area, nesting site to
thousands of marine turtles. This trail is 31⁄2 miles (6 kilometers) long and crosses through a
dry forest lava habitat home to hundreds of iguanas. We return to Puerto Ayora to spend the evening at leisure in the Galapagos’ most populous town. (B, L, D)
DAY 7: RESEARCH STATION & TRANSFER TO BALTRA ISLAND & AIRPORT
In the morning we visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn about conservation and management efforts in the archipelago. We also get to meet Lonesome George, the last
giant tortoise of his species. We then transfer by vehicle to Baltra Island for our airport
connection back to the continent. (B)
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 first class and tourist superior hotels; all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily); all adventure and protective equipment; professional English-speaking guide; professional Galápagos naturalist guide; land transportation and inter-island (marine or air) transportation.
Not Included
Airfare to/from Galápagos (subject to change); Galápagos National Park Entrance Fee (subject to change); hotel & restaurant beverages, staff or guide tips
To review this trip please register or login (if already registered).
Overall Rating:
1 customer review
Destination:
4.0
Activity:
4.0
Equipment:
5.0
Food:
5.0
Guides & Service:
4.0
Provider Rating: 16 trip reviews
Equipment:
3.9
Food:
3.8
Guides & Service:
4.6
Social & Environmental Responsibility:
3.8
Trip Rating:
Destination:
Equipment:
Activity:
Food:
Guides & Service:
Galapagos Premium Multisport Adventure, 7 Days
by Fazia M., Minimal Experience,
Oct 29, 2008
We had a perfectly organized tour. There was also possibility for change, depending on the wishes of the group. The only remark we have is the visits to land turtles on every island. One could easily be skipped and replaced by other animal viewing.
I would also advice people who plan to do this trip to bring good binoculars.
Accommodations in first class and tourist superior hotels; all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily); all adventure and protective equipment; professional English-speaking guide; professional Galápagos naturalist guide; land transportation and inter-island (marine or air) transportation.
Not Included
Not Included
Airfare to/from Galápagos (subject to change); Galápagos National Park Entrance Fee (subject to change); hotel & restaurant beverages, staff or guide tips
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.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
BOAT TRAVEL TIME: 2 to 3 hours
SMALL AIRCRAFT FLIGHT TIME: 50 minutes
PADDLE, HIKING, OR ACTIVITY DURATION: 2 to 4 hours per day
SEASON: All year
ALTITUDE: Sea level to 2,000 feet (600 meters)
AVERAGE TEMPERTATURES: 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.
WATER TEMPERATURE: The waters of the Galápagos Islands are a unique mixture of warm and cold water, ranging between 65ºF and 85ºF.
SUGGESTED ITEMS TO PACK: hiking shoes, water sandals, rain jacket, flashlight, water bottle, non-cotton trekking gear, sunblock, hat, and mosquito repellent.
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 by trip date.
Transportation On Trip
Transportation Description
We use small aircraft to travel between islands on this trip. Flights are usually 50 minutes. Boat travel for activities can be up to two hours a day.
Transportation Types
Private Bus Motor Boat Commercial Jet
Average hours/day travel
1-2 hours
Lodging - Accommodations
What are the accommodations like?
Accommodations are in first class hotels
Lodging Types
6 Nights hotels
Hotels on Trip
San Cristobal: Teclas
Santa Cruz: Red Mangove or Sol y Mar
Isabela: Casa de Marita
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.
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
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.
The Galapagos Multisport Adventure is the perfect choice for those wanting to explore the amazing...
view trip
SEARCH
GO GREEN
Reduce Global Warming
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
Detour, The Adventure Travel Marketplace - Galapagos Premium Multisport Adventure, 8 Days
Printable version
