Witnessing white-tip sharks at 'Shark Alley', travelling by public speedboats around the Galapagos Islands, feeling like a local during a family homestay, camping in the highlands of Isabela Island with views towards the ocean, visiting Charles Darwin Research Station and the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre.
This nine-day adventure is perfect for those who want to experience the incredible wildlife and scenery of the Galapagos Islands but prefer to sleep on shore—so your time on the water is limited to commuting between islands. Go ashore at the lesser-visited island of Isabela and spend your days with playful sea lions, giant manta rays and the Galapagos giant tortoise. With fewer inclusions but plenty of options, you can choose which activities are right for you and experience one of the natural wonders of the world on a budget.
What's Included
- Flights to and from the Galapagos Islands, Visit to the Interpretation Centre on San Cristóbal, Hike to "Las Tijeretas," Visit to Charles Darwin Research Station, Visit to the "Muro de las Lagrimas" and Tortoise breeding centre on Isabela Island, Opportunities for snorkelling and swimming, Incredible wildlife encounters.
- 2 Breakfasts (Allow USD255-340 for meals not included. You must pay a USD10 Tourist Transit card fee at the Quito airport and a USD100 (cash) Galapagos park entry fee immediately upon arrival to the Islands (subject to increase).USD 5 for the Isabela Municipal tax.)
- Simple hotels (5 nts), camping (1 nt), homestay (2 nts).
- Plane, speed boat, van, pick-up truck, local buses, zodiacs, public bus.
- Local naturalist guide for included activities in the Galapagos Islands (certified by the Galapagos National Park), local tour leader, Chief Experience Officer (CEO) in Quito.
- Small group experience; Max 16, Avg 10
Places Visited
- Ecuador
- Galapagos
Day 1 Quito
Arrive at any time.
Day 2-3 San Cristóbal (1B)
Fly to San Cristóbal Island and transfer to a local family homestay. Visit the Interpretation Centre and hike to 'Las Tijeretas' for birdwatching. Opportunities for swimming, exploring the town and shopping.
Day 4 Santa Cruz (1B)
Travel by speedboat to Santa Cruz Island. Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to see the Giant Galapagos Land Tortoise and learn about the natural history of the island. Optional visit to the highlands, swimming or shopping.
Day 5-7 Isabela
Continue by local speedboat to Isabela Island. Visit the Giant Tortoise breeding centre as well as the 'Wall of Tears'. Optional day tours to Sierra Negra Volcano, surf lessons and snorkelling. Spend one of these nights camping in the highlands.
Day 8 Santa Cruz/Quito
Return to Santa Cruz by speedboat, then transfer across the island to Baltra. Fly back to Quito.
Day 9 Quito
Depart at any time.
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