We combine snorkelling, biking, trekking and sea kayaking in a unique itinerary taking in the highlights of these magical islands.
Snorkel with playful sea lions, watch sharks and giant manta rays, or just enjoy the company of the Galapagos giant tortoise.
As well as the wildlife, by staying on the islands you get a feel for the culture of the people who live on the Galapagos.
Go home with memories that will last a lifetime with our trip that blends wildlife, activity, relaxation and fun!
On this adventure holiday, you will explore three islands by land, sea and small plane, using shared transportation.
Enrich your adventure with the perspectives of the different knowledgeable and experienced guides who will accompany you and ensure you experience the islands to the fullest.
Kick back at our comfortable and well-located hotels. We’ve included breakfast and some lunches while you’re out on an excursion but most days you will be free to choose from a range of typical local restaurants, allowing you to eat what and where you want.
Sea kayak alongside sharks, marine iguanas, sea turtles, and playful sea lions.
Snorkel with tropical fish, rays, sea lions, and sharks.
Bike along unspoiled coastlines.
Stroll among giant Galapagos tortoises in their natural environment.
Hike around the rim of a vast active volcano crater.
Visit three of the four inhabited islands and explore the local food and culture.
Unwind on beautiful beaches with sea lions and marine iguanas.
Really had a great time. Guide on Galapagos first rate and he really helped make the tour. Loads of experience and born in the islands. Good people person and he really helped get best out of holiday.
Y.Chen, Galapagos
After a morning flight from the Ecuadorian mainland to San Cristobal Island, you will be met at the airport and accompanied to your hotel.
Spend some time exploring the town and enjoy lunch at your leisure.
Early in the afternoon, we provide a brief introduction to the island before we head to the coast, where our kayaks will be ready for our first encounter with the Galapagos magic: paddling along the coastal bays and coves of San Cristobal’s north coast.
Here, you’ll find blue-footed boobies, frigate birds, sea lions, and sea turtles. If luck is on our side, we may spot rays underwater and marine iguanas basking on lava rocks.
After returning to the hotel, you’re free to try some island seafood specialties in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on your own.
A full day awaits at Kicker Rock to snorkel amidst the underwater wonders of the Galapagos! Accompanied by our experienced guide as part of a shared group, we explore nearby coves and cliffs, searching for sea turtles, frigate birds, blue-footed boobies, and Nazca boobies.
There’s also the chance to interact with sea lions – the young pups are ever-curious and playful
As we snorkel, we may encounter eagle rays, golden rays, Galapagos sharks, starfish, clams, and countless tropical fish. With some luck, we might even spot hammerhead sharks.
As the day comes to a close, we return to the hotel for a relaxed evening in the coastal town.
Snorkel gear
If you prefer to bring your own snorkel gear, please do so. If you have a new mask it should be cleaned properly and used beforehand to make sure it isn’t going to fog up when you are on the hunt for that perfect underwater fish photo. If you wear glasses. You can wear contacts or visit a dive shop before coming to Galapagos to get a corrective lens mask if necessary.
After breakfast, we bid farewell to San Cristobal and board a small plane for an exhilarating flight across the archipelago’s azure waters and volcanic landscapes to Isabela Island. Amazingly, it is still in the throes of creation, In fact, Isabela is one of the most volcanically active spots on Earth.
Upon arrival, we head to Tintoreras to explore the beautiful marine world by kayak, navigating small islets with hidden coves and beaches.
Here, you may encounter the endemic Galapagos penguin. Watch for reef sharks, sea turtles, and sea lions as we paddle.
In Puerto Villamil, you’re free to enjoy seafood, Ecuadorian, and international cuisine on your own.
You might take a quick dip in the ocean or relax in a hammock before our local guest experience coordinator briefs you on your next adventure: a self-guided bike ride through Isabela’s white sand beaches, mangrove forests, and brackish lagoons The ride is fun and easy, and as ever in Galapagos, there are plenty of birds to spot and wonders to take in.
This evening is at your leisure.
Lace up your hiking boots, we’re heading up a volcano!
Sierra Negra Volcano is one of the most active volcanoes in Galapagos; its last eruption was in 2018!
Joining a naturalist guide and a shared group, we drive up the flanks of the mighty Sierra Negra volcano. When the road ends, we continue on foot, hiking through a highland ecosystem sometimes enveloped in dreamy clouds. At the rim of the volcano, a surreal geological landscape unfolds, offering stunning views of surrounding volcanoes and the ocean.
After a break to catch our breath and take in the scenery, we hike around the rim of the enormous crater and, if we have enough energy, continue to the caldera of Volcan Chico. Here, vibrant hues created by sulphur deposits and spectacular lava formations await exploration.
Returning to the lowlands, we spend the afternoon relaxing on pristine beaches and soaking in the island atmosphere.
Dinner is on your own.
Volcano hike notes: You’ll be walking 4-6 hours with frequent rest stops and a lunch break. From the National Park checkpoint, there’s about a 45-minute walk uphill to the rim of the volcano. The trail around the rim has only slight up and downs with a few short steep inclines. The lava fields of Volcan Chico are uneven and rocky in areas.
The path in and out is dirt: if it’s been raining, it could be muddy. There’s one proper bathroom at the beginning of the trail. The majority of walking is on level terrain and as long as you’re comfortable walking 4-6 hours, it’s definitely doable. If you have weak ankles, use athletic braces and wear hiking boots. If you have knee trouble, bring a hiking pole or two. This is a non-technical hike.
Today promises another trip highlight!
We leave Puerto Villamil by boat and, after 45 minutes, reach the beautiful Cape Rosa on the island’s western side. Here, we walk on connecting lava tunnels in the blue sea waters, keeping an eye out for blue-footed boobies, sea lions, and the endemic vegetation of this arid zone. From the surface, dozens of sea turtles, penguins, and rays are easily spotted.
We then snorkel around the tunnels’ shallow waters, searching for seahorses, penguins, stingrays, and white-tipped sharks.
The day concludes with a boat ride around the bay, looking for sea turtles and possibly snorkeling again.
As we sail to and from Isabela, we might see manta rays and, during mating season, witness their acrobatic dives.
We return around 3:00 PM and enjoy a leisurely afternoon. Explore Flamingo Lagoon and wetlands, visit the breeding centre, or simply explore the beach and town.
Early in the morning, we leave Isabela aboard a public speedboat for our journey east to Santa Cruz Island and Puerto Ayora, the archipelago’s largest settlement. After meeting at the dock, we head to the hotel.
We then drive to the highlands to see the famous Galapagos giant tortoises in their natural habitat. It’s humbling to walk among these noble giants, remnants of a lost world.
Look out for frigate birds, egrets, pintail ducks, Darwin’s finches, and the vermillion flycatcher in this lush, green ecosystem. Next, we explore incredible lava tunnels, once hideouts for pirates and rumoured to have hidden Inca gold.
Lunch is at a traditional highland hacienda.
If time allows, we can visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and the National Park’s tortoise breeding program in Puerto Ayora. Enjoy the evening exploring the port’s array of shops, restaurants, and bars on your own.
Speedboat Crossings:
Residents and tourist alike use this method of transport regularly between the main inhabited islands. However, for this tour you’ll be on a private boat. Out on the open ocean, this is your best chance to see whales and dolphins. Each crossing takes about 2 hours. Less time if the sea is calm, more time if the sea is rough. Boats are usually 30-35 feet long and hold 20-30 passengers. You’ll be leaving bright and early most days when the sea is usually calm, but if you’re prone to seasickness or not sure, bring some seasickness pills just in case.
Santa Cruz Highlands notes: If it’s been raining, the farm can be muddy. The lava tunnel is damp, dark and rocky. There are lights in the tunnel, but if you have a headlamp, bring it. Closed toed shoes recommended and keep a rain jacket handy just in case.
A day dedicated to exploring Puerto Ayora’s natural environment. After breakfast, we join a naturalist guide and a shared group to head west from the port, stopping at the Lobería to observe sea lions.
At Punta Camaño islet we snorkel among sea lions and schools of fish. Passing through the romantically named Canal del Amor, we disembark at Playa de los Perros, where groups of jet-black marine iguanas bask in the sun occasionally slipping off into the sea to feed.
After lunch on your own in Puerto Ayora, where there are many options to choose from, we take a short hike to Tortuga Bay, one of the world’s most beautiful beaches.
Rent a surfboard at the first beach or a kayak at the second. Alternatively, relax at the tranquil second beach, fringed with mangroves and ideal for birdwatching or swimming.
Tortuga Bay notes: The trail to the beach is an easy walk on a nice path for about 45 minutes. Once you pass the National Park checkpoint at the entrance, there will be no bathrooms or shops to buy refreshments, so bring plenty of water and sunscreen. If you want to rent a surfboard or boogie board, you must rent one in town and carry the board with you. If you want to walk through the cactus forest, you’ll need shoes suitable for the rocky path.
It’s time to say goodbye to the Galapagos!
Board the vehicle which will take you north over Santa Cruz Island to the Itabaca Channel. At this point we leave you to continue your journey alone: all that remains is a 5-minute ferry crossing across the narrow channel and a 10-15 min bus ride which will drop you off outside Baltra airport in plenty of time to check in for your flight back to the mainland.
Prices From $3,038 / £2,470 per person
Enquire about booking
Accommodation in Comfort Class hotels, meals as listed (B = breakfast / BL = box lunch /L = lunch), shared services throughout the program, bilingual Galapagos naturalist guide/adventure guide, all sea and land transportation during the tour, 24-hour telephone assistance, coordination staff in San Cristobal and Isabela islands.
Flights to and from Galapagos(around $550), entrance fee to Galapagos National Park ($200), Galapagos transit card ($20), Itabaca ferry ($1) Lobito bus to Baltra Airport ($5), tips, hotel & restaurant beverages.
This is an active, adventure-oriented trip but the hotels you will be staying at are comfortable and well-located.
Hotels – singles, twin, doubles and some triples and family rooms available.
Our team of guides and expedition crews is composed of native Galapagueños, born and raised in the islands. They bring a wealth of knowledge about the flora, fauna, and cultural heritage of the Galapagos, including local cuisine and customs, providing a unique experience.
Our guides are seasoned professionals, experts in each activity we offer, and adhere to the highest standards set by international organizations. They are trained and licensed by the Galapagos National Park and continually update their knowledge with the latest research and information about the natural life in the Galapagos.
Passionate about what they do best, our guides delight in showing their homeland to visitors from around the world, ensuring an enriching experience that goes beyond a typical vacation.
We can cater for many special dietary requirements on this tour. Please let us know at the time of booking.
Breakfast and some lunches are included in this tour. When you have free time to choose your own meals, our guide can make recommendations or you can explore on your own.
Typically, there is a lot of eggs, fish, chicken, rice and some potatoes, plus fresh fruit and vegetables and coffee. There are also international plates such as pasta, pizza, hamburgers etc.
All activities are within the scope of people that like to be active. No previous experience is necessary for any of the activities, however, as none are designed to be overly strenuous.
The hiking day on Sierra Negra involves 4-5 hours of walking. Other activities will last between 2-4 hours.
These magical islands comprise of 50 volcanic islands of varying shapes and sizes, which lie 1,000 kilometres off the coast of Ecuador.
Here, unlike anywhere else on Earth, you can enjoy a thousand close encounters with a weird and wonderful variety of ‘friendly locals’, including giant tortoises, fur seals, sea iguanas, frigate birds and blue-footed boobies.
Read our Galapagos Islands Guide and more about diving.
In 1535, Tomás de Berlanga, Bishop of Panama, floated into this archipelago and named it Galapagos after the giant tortoises he encountered. Pirates used the islands for refuge and to bury their stolen treasure after that.
The islands’ most celebrated visitor was Charles Darwin, who arrived aboard the HMS Beagle in 1835. The rare life forms he encountered helped him formulate his theory of evolution, which he published in The Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection.
It wasn’t until 1959 when it became part of Ecuador’s national park system that this fragile ecosystem with its rare and endemic species came under protection.
In 1979 the Galapagos archipelago was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
When to visit Galapagos Islands: weather and wildlife
There is no real ‘best’ time to visit Galapagos on holiday as there is always wonderful wildlife and weather to enjoy. Read our blog for more.
Most animals – tortoises, sharks, sea lions and boobies – are found year round and many of the species here are non-migratory.
The Galapagos Islands are located right on the equator so air and water temperatures do not vary by much.
Having said that, there are two recognised seasons, and each months brings natural marvels for the visitor to enjoy.
Below is our quick guide to the weather and wildlife you can find on the Galapagos Islands.
General weather information
The warm season (Jan-Jun)
Sea temperatures: 22-25°C / 72-77°F
Land temperatures: 21-32°C / 72-90°F
The dry ‘garua’ season (Jun-Dec)
Sea temperatures: 15-22°C / 60-72°F
Land temperatures: 18-24°C / 65-75°F
Air and sea temperatures in Galapagos, month-by-month
Diving in Galapagos is mainly aimed at experienced divers – PADI advanced or more – with experience in cold, fast moving waters and with good buoyancy.
Beginners can now join day dives on land-based (hotel-based) packages.
Read more on our Galapagos Diving page.
The more experienced divers can choose hotel-based packages or live aboard a specified dive boat that only offers week long, dive-only cruises.
Diving is not permitted on almost all standard cruises, although some can now offer a few dives while the rest of the group is ashore or snorkelling.
Please ask for details as National Park rules are complex and dive availability in this form is scarce.
Good kit is vital for every trip.
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Galapagos – general advice
Galapagos is warm and humid, and you will need t-shirts (moisture wick-away or breathable t-shirts can be very useful, it can get very hot in the day), shorts, lightweight skirt or trousers and bathing suits.
One or two cotton shirts can be used to protect you from sunburn, especially when snorkelling (not very elegant worn in the water over a swimsuit, but practical – and Galapagos is NOT an elegant place!).
You may want to change into different clothes for the evening, but don’t take anything dressy or smart – there really is a very relaxed atmosphere in island hotels.
Pack something warm and windproof for being the inter-island speedboats – and a waterproof for the Highlands.
Strong sandals, trainers, or light hiking boots are ideal footwear – you may like to have something suitable for easy walks and another for tougher terrain – your guide will advise you daily what the walking will be like.
Do take a hat!
Seasickness tablets if you think you will have problems – i.e. Sturgeon, or Mareol if you buy them in Quito. The sea can be choppy, so it is recommended to take them as a precaution.
Galapagos – detailed kit list
The Galapagos Islands are a very fragile environment and the arrival of more and more inhabitants to the islands, as well as tourist have an impact.
Please try to minimise your impact by:
Quito
Pleasantly warm during the day, but can be quite chilly during the morning or at night when you might want a jacket or a fleece, plus a waterproof.
You may want to dress up a little more in the evening here, depending on where you are staying, and what sort of restaurant you like.
Guayaquil
Conditions here are similar to Galapagos – hot and humid. T-shirts and shorts in the day, and like Quito, something smarter for eating out in restaurants at night.
The Galapagos Islands are a suitable destination for most ages and fitness levels. Walks are generally short, although some volcano hikes are more challenging and may involve 2-3 hours of walking. Snorkelling is a real highlight on the Galapagos, so the ability to swim and snorkel is recommended. Snorkelling is suitable for those that have never tried before.
You need to be able to make some wet landings i.e. stepping out of a panga onto a sandy shore, and you may need to ascend or desend small ladders when getting on or off boats at docks or to snorkel.
The fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the Islands, but they really are accessible to all. You can choose to skip any activities you do not wish to partake in.
Read more in our blog about a typical day on Galapagos.
Floreana is the least populated Galapagos island and yet home to its most scandalous tales!
Gossip aside, it is home to Post Office Bay, where a post barrel was erected in the late 18th century by English whalers. Passing sailors took the messages onwards – and it still functions today.
The nearby Devil’s Crown is one of Galapagos’ most special snorkels.
A (at times strong) current pushes you past the remains of a submerged volcano with its crater ‘horns’ still exposed, and you’ll see a brilliant array of colourful fish and corals.
Great viewpoints at Asilo de La Paz and Baroness view, too.
Isabela is the largest and one of the youngest Galapagos islands, and its small human but enormous wildlife population make it perfect for cruises and hotel-based visits.
It also has a mile-long, pristine white-sand beach, with some small and cool bars to hang out in with some sundowners.
Must-do’s include Sierra Negra volcano and its active caldera, head to Los Tuneles to snorkel face-to-face with sharks and turtles and spend some time looking for penguins at Las Tintoreras.
Isabela is great for adventure and families alike.
For cruises only, Punta Vicente Roca is a lovely snorkel, and Urbina Bay is a top spot for wild giant tortoises and colourful land iguanas.
A truly impressive sight, Kicker Rock is the remains of an underwater volcano rising vertically 150m/492ft out of the sea.
The exposed cone has fractured in two, leaving a wildlife rich sea channel for us to enjoy, snorkelling or diving.
Jump in the water and drift with the gentle current through the cleft, keeping an eye out below for sea turtles, manta rays and maybe the odd harmless Galapagos shark, just to name a few.
Hammerheads are occasionally seen here too.
On the cliffs, we can spot Blue-footed Boobies, Nazca Boobies and magnificent Frigate birds. A memorable snorkel.
Almost everyone will visit Santa Cruz during a Galapagos stay.
It’s popular because of the incredible variety of habitat and animals go alongside its strategic location.
The famous Charles Darwin Centre is a must, as is a visit to see Giant Tortoises and a kayak in the turquoise waters at Garrapatero beach.
There are a plethora of great dive and snorkel sites nearby, lively bars and some good beaches for relaxing, like Tortuga Bay.
Most cruises start or end here, and the majority of flights come to Santa Cruz, plus there are many accommodation options, from basic to luxury.
Curious, dark sand greets the visitor to this centrally-located island.
Marine iguanas may join you for a snorkel after warming up in the sun, along with white-tipped reef sharks, rays, surgeon and parrotfish and turtles.
Crabs, sea lions and spectacular blowholes line the shore.
On the other side of the island, red sand cliffs are home to many seabirds, and Bucaneer cove tells its own whaling and pirate history.
A group of nearby small rocky islands called Bainbridge Rocks feature a stunning, turquoise saltwater lagoon that is home to flamingos.
The Galapagos is an ideal year-round destination, with its volcanic landscapes and tame wildlife.
Whether you cruise or stay in a hotel, you are guaranteed to see giant tortoises, sea lions, iguanas and blue-footed boobies to name a few, plus amazing volcanic formations and stunning beaches.
No trip here is complete without diving or snorkelling – turtles, rays, schools of fish, and for the lucky, hammerhead and whale sharks.
Divers can enjoy some of the best underwater diving in the world on liveaboard cruises to remote and spectacular dive sites.
Flung way out to the north of the archipelago, this spectacular island is a Galapagos in miniature.
Its remote location meaning very few people make it this far.
Sea lions, sharks and Flightless Cormorants will no doubt accompany you on snorkels in deep waters as well as close to the beautiful, white-sand bay.
A multitude of birds nest at Tower, and it’s the only place you’re sure to see the Red-Footed Booby, as well as the chance to spot petrels, owls, gulls and more.
Select an available date to view pricing and information for that particular trip.
2024 price from $3038 per person, shared room basis. Single supplement applies High season supplement applies Hotel upgrade possible
$3,038 / £2,470
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+44 (0)131 378 5593
+44 (0)131 554 6025
info@andeantrails.co.uk
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