Galapagos Multisport $3260

Departure Date

Every Sunday

Duration

10 days 9 nights

Views

2340

Maximum Seats

10
Overview

Immerse yourself in pure nature in the enchanting Galapagos! Made famous by Charles Darwin, this volcanic paradise is home of spectacular endemic species of flora and fauna found nowhere else on earth. Take the leap and join us on this island hopping Activexpedition where you can explore the Archipelago while hiking volcanoes, snorkeling to view turtles, rays and sharks; paddle in search of playful and blue-footed boobies, which can be seen scampering about; as well as bike and hike in search of giant Tortoises who call these islands home. Take to heart in knowing that your travels are directly benefiting local families and sustainable tourism efforts. Accommodation is provided at charming lodges and hotels.
mapas tours_active gps
  • Hike to frigate hill

  • Snorkel at Kicker rock

  • Bike on Isabela Island looking for wildlife

  • Paddle on search for penguins

  • Snorkel through the lava tunnels

  • Visit the local brewery

  • Wine tasting

  • Hike in the highlands of Santa Cruz to view giant tortoises

  • Share time with the local people

  • Stay at unique places in every location

  • Be led by top Activexpedition experienced guides at every step you take

  • Support sustainable travel to preserve culture and nature

  • Biking

  • Hiking

  • Paddling

  • Swimming

  • Snorkeling

  • Culture

  • Wildlife

Easy To Moderated
  • Year around

  • 8 years old

Full Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival

A collaborator will be waiting for you at airport to assist with transfer to hotel in Quito. There are no activities planned for your first day for you to be able to explore the beautiful city of Quito on your own terms, but if you feel like having a guided day tour at extra cost, do not hesitate in contacting us. We are always more than happy to send you with one of our expert guides to learn more about the city or the surrounding areas.

Please keep in mind that there is a meeting at 18:00 in the hotel’s lobby the first day to meet your guide and the rest of the group as well as learn about what’s in store for the days of your expedition!

Overnight: Dann Carlton or similar
Meals included: none
Day 2

Hike Frigate Hill and First Immersion Snorkel Exploration

Today in the morning we will be picked up and taken to the airport for a three hour flight to San Cristobal Island in Galapagos. Upon arrival we will check in at the hotel and have some time for lunch accompanied by the fresh Pacific breeze. In the afternoon we will visit the Interpretation (welcome) centre of the National Park to learn from a seasoned Naturalist guide to learn about the archipelago, and its role in environment research and preservation as well as many of the animals that can be found residing there. Later we will go hiking through the brush forest path that leads us to Frigate Hill, a lovely viewpoint on the island, after of which we will and have a chance to go snorkeling in search of lazy sea lions, graceful and impressive sea turtles and colorful fish. In the late afternoon we will go back to the hotel.

Overnight: Sea Side Hotel or similar
Meal included: Breakfast
Day 3

Snorkel at Kicker Rock

We start our day hopping on the boat for a fifty minute ride through sapphire blue waters to one of the most jaw-dropping places in the Galapagos, Kicker rock. Towering 500 feet over the surface this volcanic formation is the doorway to some of the best chances of wildlife sightings. Here we will take a dip beneath the waves through the channel that cuts through the middle of the formation for the chance to encounter white tip reef sharks, rays, sea lions, turtles, an array of fish and if luck is on our side, even hammer head sharks. We will have two opportunities to explore this underwater paradise followed by a visit to one of the pure white sand beaches forming the reserve. Lunch will be served on board. Our day ends heading back to the town where you will be able to explore on foot and enjoy the serenity of a night in the Galapagos.

Overnight: Sea Side Hotel or similar
Meals included: Breakfast and lunch
Day 4

Kayaking Wildlife Excursion

After an early breakfast, we will take the island hopper plane to Isabela Island one of the youngest islands in the Galapagos. Isabela is mostly uninhabited and remains a sanctuary for wildlife, being home to animals such as iguanas, flamingos, giant tortoises and even penguins. Once we arrive we will have free time to explore and have lunch. In the afternoon we will go kayaking to Tintoreras, and islet of jagged volcanic rock that form small underwater canyons thriving with wildlife. Be on the look out for feisty penguins and blue-footed boobies! Want to get the view from above and below? Get up close and personal by submerging in serene crystal waters in search of more varieties of fish, turtles, and sea lions.

Overnight: Cormorant Hotel or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 5

Biking Exploration

After breakfast we will head out on our next day of Adventure- biking along an exclusive road around the side of the island. Each stop on our journey will take us to leisurely walking trails with impressive views of the different landscapes and immerse us in the diverse ecosystem of the island. Highlighting our ride are stops at Playa del Amor and the Tortoise Breeding Center. Playa del Amor, or Love Beach, is home to the largest population of iguanas on the Island. Lounging about, these creatures are exclusive to the Galapagos and are marine animals, having the ability to forage underwater. At the Tortoise breeding center we will learn of the impressive efforts of workers at the National Park in the preservation of the tortoise population. Our day finishes after five hours of exploration though richly diverse environments at the Flamingo lagoon. Once back in town you will be able to enjoy the golden sunset amidst the gentle sounds of crashing waves.

Overnight: Cormorant Hotel or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 6

Trekking Sierra Negra And Snorkel Tintoreras

The morning is to explore the Highlands of Isabela, as we will trek the rim of Sierra Negra Volcano for 10 miles total, there you can see fresh volcanic material from the last eruptions of 2018, with clear weather you can also have a nice view of Elizabeth bay, in the Affernoon we will go to Tintoreras, and islet of jagged volcanic rock that form small underwater canyons thriving with wildlife. Be on the look out for feisty penguins and blue-footed boobies! Want to get the view from above and below? Get up close and personal by submerging in serene crystal waters in search of more varieties of fish, turtles, and sea lions.

Overnight: Cormorant Hotel or similar
Meals included: Breakfast and lunch.
Day 7

Lava Tunnels

Enter a world like no other at Los Tunneles. Famous for its arch like volcanic formations this is an ecosystem brimming with different species of animals and is nesting ground for blue- footed boobies. Possible sightings include white-tip reef sharks, penguins, golden and eagle rays, among many others! Explore the area above and below as our day's expeditions takes us by boat, snorkeling as well as on foot. Lunch will be served on board and after we will travel back to town.

Overnight: Cormorant Hotel or similar
Meals included: Breakfast and lunch
Day 8

Charles Darwin Research Station

Seize the day with an early rise and boat right two hours to the Island of Santa Cruz home to the Charles Darwin Research Station. Witness the tireless efforts of researchers and conservationist and learn about how they are helping to repopulate the island with different species of tortoise. Although you will see many different types of tortoise at the station’s breeding center, our second stop of the day will take us up to ‘El Chato’ reserve in the highlands for an up close and personal experience to see them in their natural habitat. Explore the lava tunnels that dot the property while watching the gentle giants lounge around in the mud these are truly impressive creatures! At our return to town you are to enjoy a relaxing massage session at a local SPA in Puerto Ayora. Later on take a stroll and head down to the boat docks at night as sharks and rays can be spotted playing in the lights below.

Overnight: Galapagos Inn Hotel or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 9

Return to Quito

In the morning we will be transferred back to Baltra for our return flights to Quito. Average time back to the city is 2-3 hours depending on if your flight is direct or with a stop in Guayaquil.

Overnight: Dann Carlton Hotel or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 10

Departure

After breakfast, we get ready to be transferred to airport in time to connect with international flight, but if you wish to stay longer, we can help you organize an extension trip to places you did not see during this week. Otherwise if you are ready to go back home after an amazing Acivexpedition we wish you safe travels.

Meals included: Breakfast

LET'S DESIGN YOUR ADVENTURE

    • Top Experienced Certified English-Speaking Guide

    • Airport transfers for domestics and international flights

    • Private Transport

    • Flight from San Cristobal to Isabella

    • Accommodation for nine nights

    • Meals according to the Itinerary

    • Water and snacks at all time

    • Private massage session at Spa in Galapagos

    • Biking gear: Hybrid bikes, certified helmets and gloves

    • Paddling gear: Seat on top double kayaks and paddles

    • Snorkeling gear: Mask and fins

    • International or domestic flights

    • Galapagos transit control card INGALA

    • Galapagos National Park fee

    • Isabela Island fee

    • Meals not mentioned in the itinerary

    • Tips for guides and drivers

    • Travel insurance (mandatory)

    • Optional activities

    • Itinerary Disclaimer: Even though we have a detailed itinerary, changes can be made by your guides, due to weather or safety reasons. Please also note that none of the wildlife sightings mentioned on the itinerary are guaranteed.

    • Visas and Passports: Make sure you check your visa and passport validity and requirements per country. It is important your passport is valid for at least 6 months before your travel.

    • Accommodation: We strive to use small and charming places that are unique and provide stellar service.

    • Single Supplement Costs: Generally this fee is not incurred as we match you with another person of the same gender in a twin room, but if you prefer not to share and have your own room, then there will be an associated fee

    • Transportation: Driving time can take more than expected in Ecuador, as it is a small country with roads meandering through the Andes Mountains. We assure your comfort during transit no matter the size of the group, while in the Galapagos the speed boat from Santa Cruz to Isabela can be a bit challenging if you are not use to travel by boat, so we highly recommend to carry some seasickness medicine with you.

    • Level of Activity: This trip is considered as 2 out of 5. No prior experience is required and your guides will always brief you about safety and proper use of gear on every leg of the trip. The hiking is quite easy on mostly flat terrain along the coastline, the kayaking is on a calm area, the biking is also easy on sand and some gravel, and there will be a transport support for the majority of the activities in the case that someone wants to take a break or just wants to relax.

    • Weather and Elevation: Although the islands are located on the equator, the Humboldt Current brings cold water to them, causing frequent drizzles during most of the year. The weather is periodically influenced by the El Niño events, which occur about every 3 to 7 years and are characterized by warm sea surface temperatures, a rise in sea level, greater wave action, and a depletion of nutrients in the water.During the season known as the garúa (June to November), the temperature by the sea is 22 °C (72 °F), a steady and cold wind blows from south and southeast, frequent drizzles (garúas) last most of the day, and dense fog conceals the islands. During the warm season (December to May), the average sea and air temperature rises to 25 °C (77 °F), there is no wind at all, there are sporadic, though strong, rains and the sun shines. Weather changes as altitude increases in the large islands. Temperature decreases gradually with altitude, while precipitation increases due to the condensation of moisture in clouds on the slopes. There is a large range in precipitation from one place to another, not only with altitude, but also depending on the location of the islands, and also with the seasons. The precipitation also depends on the geographical location. During March 1969, the precipitation over Charles Darwin Station, on the southern coast of Santa Cruz was 249.0 mm (9.80 in), while on Baltra Island, the precipitation during the same month was only 137.6 mm (5.42 in). This is because Baltra is located behind Santa Cruz with respect to the prevailing southerly winds, so most of the moisture gets precipitated in the Santa Cruz highlands. There are significant changes in precipitation from one year to another, too. At Charles Darwin Station, the precipitation during March 1969 was 249.0 mm (9.80 in), but during March 1970, it was only 1.2 mm (0.047 in). On the larger islands, the pattern of generally wet highlands and drier lowlands impacts the flora. The vegetation in the highlands tends to be green and lush, with tropical woodland in places. The lowland areas tend to have arid and semi-arid vegetation, with many thorny shrubs and cacti, and almost bare volcanic rock elsewhere.

    • Sustainability: We do our best to not produce any trash; we believe that recycling is not enough so we try to avoid using any plastic or materials that pollute our environment. Every day we work towards being a zero waste tour operator and our staff is well trained to leave the least impact possible in our service areas. We also work with local indigenous communities in the different regions. By doing so we are able to teach our guests about the rich culture Ecuador, all the while helping the people preserve their traditions and lands. By working directly with local peoples, we are able to create a sustainable touristic income for the community.

    • Guides: All our guides have a professional background from the Tourism University; this means they have a degree in guiding, so their knowledge and skills when leading a group are top-notch. Each guide has many years of experience and they all have taken additional courses for other outdoor activities as well as have International First-Aid certifications. On top of all of this, they are all extremely personable and strive to deliver travel experiences of a lifetime.

    • Heath advices: no vaccinations needed for this trip

    We do recommend travelling light for this expedition. A duffel bag of 50 litters for your luggage and a backpack of 20 litters for daily activities should be sufficient. In Ecuador and The Galapagos, the weather can change drastically so please be ready.

    • Passport

    • Credit card

    • Two pairs of lightweight hiking pants

    • Two pairs of shorts

    • Two bathing suit

    • Four non-cotton T-shirts

    • One cotton T-shirts

    • One water T-shirt

    • One fleece

    • One rain jacket

    • Two buffs

    • One pair of snickers

    • One pair of water sandals

    • One pair of flip flops

    • One- or two-night outfits

    • One cap or hat

    • Sunscreen

    • Sunglasses

    • Mosquito repellent

    • Camera

    • Head lamp

    • Optional binoculars

    NOTE: Laundry is available almost at every location and is quiet cheap, this helps traveling light too.

    Price based on number of guests:

    2 - 3 guests

    $3260/per person

    • All premium features

    • Every friday

    4 or more guests

    $2530/per person

    • All premium features

    • Every friday

    Go private

    Contact us

    • We are ready to meet your needs and put together an unforgettable experience.

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    • 7 am - 4 pm Monday through Thursday.
    • 7 am to 1 pm Fridays (US central) toll free or by skype.
    Otherwise, email us anytime. On average we provide quotes within 6 hours during business hours and the next day during off business hours. Privately guided trips allow you to be in control of all the details of your trip - departure times, accommodations, extra nights, extra activities, extra experiences - what you want and how you want it. If you want to go private or customize this expedition, contact us.
    Phone

    US & CANADA: +1 (919) 400-5824 EC: +593 (09) 5955-5556

    Email

    christian@activexpedition.com