Classic Galapagos Islands Adventure
Classic Galapagos Islands Adventure
7 Days Starting and ending in Quito, Ecuador
Visiting: Quito, Santa Cruz Island, Tortuga Bay, Isabela Island, Sierra Negra, Las Tintoreras Islet, San Cristóbal Island, Kicker Rock, Interpretation Center
Tour operator:
Tour code:
ClasGalap
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
5 - 14
Age range:
16-80
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
From:
$5999
$5729
Exclusive Tourhub Members Discount: -$270
NB: Prices correct on 21-May-2024 but subject to change.
Tour Overview
Discover the highlights and hidden gems of the Galapagos in just a week on our Classic Galapagos Islands Adventure. There's no doubt you'll be mind blown by the contrasting landscapes, from the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu to the crystal clear water of Isabela Island, on our Classic Galapagos Islands Adventure. Starting in Quito, you'll wander the colonial city unchanged from the colonial days. From here, it's just a hop over to the Galapagos Islands. The next 6-days will be yours to snorkel next to Kicker Rock, cycle the San Cristobal highlands, hike Sierra Negra Volcano, sea kayak near Isabela Island and get up close to all manner of wild creatures and relax on isolated beaches. If you're only likely to visit this part of South America once in your life, we'll make sure our Classic Galapagos Islands Adventure is an adventure you'll never forget.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive To Quito
Location: Quito
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel EB, Quito
Meals Included: Dinner,
Your trip begins in Ecuador’s capital city, Quito. If you’re flying in early today, you’ll have a chance to journey to the city from the airport (or your hotel) to explore the beautiful town squares, quaint cafés and colonial architecture. Quito is a mesmerising city to visit, with its cobbled streets and towering cathedrals, nestled in a valley flanked by majestic mountains. On a clear day, several snow-capped volcanoes are visible from the capital. As well as being in a beautiful location, this colonial city is rich in history and much of the old town is well preserved, the buildings are unchanged and to walk down the narrow streets is to step into bygone eras. You'll meet your guides in the evening to chat about the Galapagos journey that lies ahead and to enjoy dinner together.
Day 2 : Fly To The Galapagos Islands
Location: Santa Cruz Island
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Solymar or similar, Santa Cruz Island
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner,
We’ll hop on a flight to Santa Cruz Island, in the heart of the Galapagos Archipelago. Once there, we’ll take a short stroll to the highlands where we’ll have a chance to see giant tortoises in their natural environment, along with intriguing birdlife like the vermillion flycatcher. Later, we’ll take a look inside the lava tunnels scattered throughout the highlands. These tunnels were formed by molten lava flowing beneath the surface, which left behind large tube-like caves, some almost a mile long!
Day 3 : Visit Tortuga Bay, Charles Darwin Research Station
Location: Tortuga Bay, Isabela Island
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Albemarle or similar, Isabela Island
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner,
This morning we’ll hike to Tortuga Bay, one of the most stunning beaches in the Galapagos. Tortuga Bay is accessible only by foot and is home to hundreds of prehistoric-looking marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies and pelicans. Later, we’ll visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn about the breeding programs that are saving vulnerable species of tortoises and land iguanas. Also, there will be a chance to see different types of carapace that help differentiate the tortoise species. This afternoon, we’ll head to Isabela Island - the largest island in the Galapagos.Hiking:6.5 kilometers (4 miles), 1-2 hours
Day 4 : Hike Sierra Negra Volcano And Sea Kayak Isabela Island
Location: Sierra Negra, Isabela Island
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Albemarle or similar, Isabela Island
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch,
Our hike today will take us towards the summit of Sierra Negra volcano, rising nearly a mile above the ocean. See the lowland vegetation change before your eyes as we ascend through a lunar-like landscape on our way to the top. This is one of the largest volcanic calderas in the world, and one of the most active. As we hike, we might be lucky enough to see Galapagos hawks, short-eared owls, finches and fly-catchers that inhabit this region. We'll head back down to sea level in time for lunch and then for a kayaking trip in the calm waters of Isabela Bay. Here we’ll have the chance to see some of the island’s most amazing wildlife up close. Marine iguanas bask in the sun, blue-footed boobies sit in pairs on the rock tops and Sally Lightfoot crabs scurry out of our way along the water’s edge. In the clear waters below us, rays gracefully swim by and turtles pop up for a breath of air.Hiking:8 kilometers (5 miles), 2-3 hours, elevation +/- 65 meters (213 feet)Kayaking:1-2 hours
Day 5 : Walk And Snorkel Tintoreras, San Cristobal Island, Cycle San Cristobel Highlands And Visit La Loberia
Location: Las Tintoreras Islet, San Cristóbal Island
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Casa Blanca or Blue Marlin Hotel, San Cristobal
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch,
This morning, we’ll hop out for a short walk at Tintoreras or Shark Alley, an isolated islet and popular iguana-nesting site that’s home to hundreds of marine iguanas. Afterward, you can test the waters for a snorkel in a calm inlet that’s home to a variety of colorful fish and green sea turtles who like to rest on the calm, sandy bottom. Later, we’ll take a short flight to San Cristobal Island, the oldest and eastern-most island of the Galapagos archipelago. On arrival in San Cristobal, we’ll head up into the highlands for a scenic downhill bike ride. Starting at a panoramic viewpoint called La Soledad, we’ll bike through the tiny town of El Progreso and five different vegetation zones until we reach a beach called La Loberia - a beach that is home to a large sea lion colony and nursery. You’re not likely to see this many sea lions in one place anywhere else in the world! They play, they nap and sometimes, they pose for pictures! If you’re keen on a swim, hop on in.Biking:14.5 kilometers (9 miles), flat, 2-3 hours
Day 6 : Snorkel Kicker Rock
Location: Kicker Rock
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Casa Blanca or Blue Marlin Hotel, San Cristobal
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner,
Today we’ll cruise to Kicker Rock off the coast of San Cristobal, where we’ll either snorkel or don wet suits, snorkels and masks (and tanks for the divers – diving option extra fee applies) and explore the around the remains of an underwater volcano with a rock face rising 150 meters (500 feet) above the surface of the water. Afterward, we can visit one of three beaches - Manglecito, Puerto Grande and Cerro Brujo and enjoy lunch here. This evening, we’ll dine on local produce and fresh fish.Diving/Snorkeling:Snorkel or dive Isla Labos & Kicker Rock: 2 snorkels, 30-45 mins each OR 2 dives, 30-45 minutes each (extra fees)Notes:Optional Kicker Rock diving experience (additional cost applies): You can opt to swap the snorkel for a dive if you wish. This option must be selected at the time of booking.
Day 7 : Visit Interpretation Center, Fly To Quito, Depart
Location: Interpretation Center, Quito
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch,
This morning, you're free to visit San Cristobal Interpretation Centre to learn about the history and mystery of the archipelago, from its discovery and what makes it so special, to Charles Darwin’s visit and the present-day efforts to protect this amazing World Heritage Site. Afterward, we’ll take a short flight back to Quito on the mainland, and depart for home. We’ll make sure you return home relaxed and refreshed from all the great activities, fine food and friendly people you’ll have met while traveling with us in the Galapagos Islands.
What's Included
-
Accommodation
All accommodation for duration of your trip included.
-
Fully Guided
All guiding services with experienced guides included.
-
Meals
Most meals (except where indicated, so you can experience local cuisine independently!)
-
Transport
All Park entry fees (except for additional fee of US $120 per guest for ALL Galapagos trips)
-
Our 'Red Carpet' pre-trip customer care service available to answer questions
-
Travel Wallet: a resource for everything you need to know about your trip in one secure space!
-
Trekking and 'in-between-meal' snacks
-
All drinking water and puritabs (when drinking water not readily available)
-
All activities described in the itinerary
-
Specially curated tour 'Wow' moments throughout your trip
What's Not Included
-
Additional Services
Gratuities for your guides at the end of your fabulous trip
-
Insurance
Travel insurance (Mandatory for this destination)
-
International Travel
International/Domestic Flights before and after your trip not included.
-
Optional
Optional additional activities
-
Alcoholic beverages
-
Rental equipment available as per your itinerary
Trip Notes
Check out our Q&As
-
Are all entrance fees included in the price?
All Park entry fees (except for additional fee of US $120 per guest for ALL Galapagos trips) are included.
-
Are flights included in this tour?
International/Domestic Flights before and after your trip are not included.
-
Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
Yes, Local English speaking guide on this tour.
-
What is the fitness level required to do this tour?
Activity Level 3: Step It Up, I love an active vacation. Engaging in a challenging activity with a difficult goal, such as reaching a summit, is exactly what I need to unwind in the evenings. Hiking: Typically, 3-6 hours per day on well-formed backcountry trails. Expect some significant gradient inclines and declines. Altitude: Your trip may include some moderate altitude areas, though these don't form the focus of the trip and are generally manageable. Biking: 1-3 hours on well-formed paths or roads where you can expect some hills with moderate climbs and descents. Kayaking: 1-3 hours, entry-level sea kayaking with specialist guides and stable boats. Other activities (i.e. caving): Always optional and very little exertion required. A highlight for many!
-
What is the maximum group size?
The max group size is 14 peoples.
-
What is the tipping policy?
Most people do choose to tip their Active Adventures trip leaders/guides and we recommend USD$20 per day, per guest, per trip leader/guide. During your Active Adventures trip, your trip leader/guide will take care of all included restaurants and service tips for you. For other restaurants or services during your time in the Galapagos, 5-10% is a typical gratuity amount.
-
Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?
As detailed in itinerary.
-
What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
You are covered by our Active Adventures Assurance policy.
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1996
-
Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Our trips attract a wide range of people from all different backgrounds, countries and ages, which makes our small group adventures all the more interesting and fun. All our people tend to enjoy active lifestyles, great food, good company and new experiences. If this sounds like you, then you’ll be in good company
-
What documents will I receive before I travel?
We send online booking information via our club page you’ll gain access to your trip notes, destination information, a detailed gear list and all the information you need for your trip. There are a few things to fill in – medical and dietary information, extra accommodation requests, gear hire requests etc. – to ensure you are well prepared for your adventure vacation.
-
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Travellers Against Plastic
-
Can I join the tour once it has departed?
No
-
Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Yes,
-
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
When it comes to the safety of our guests, it has always been our number one priority. We’ve introduced strict protocols to adhere to current Covid safety guidelines that are relative to the destination, country and location of your adventure – these are dependent on the current rules and restrictions that are in place at the time of your trip.
-
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Health and safety are just as important as the amazing places in the most stunning parts of the world we travel. Another focus of ours is having a good place to rest and rejuvenate at the end of a busy day, and to make sure we are fully charged for the next day’s activities, so you’ll always find yourself in a clean, comfortable room.
-
Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?
No
Reviews from travellers on this tour
1 Dates & Availability
tourhub Discount Available - Sign In
2024 Aug
2024 Sep
2024 Oct
2024 Nov
2024 Dec
2024 Jan
2025 Feb
2025 Mar
2025 Apr
2025 May
2025 Jun
2025 Jul
2025 Aug
2025 Sep
2025 Oct
2025 Nov
2025 Dec
2025
Saturday - Friday
Jun 01, 2024 - Jun 07, 2024Saturday - Friday
Aug 10, 2024 - Aug 16, 2024Saturday - Friday
Sep 07, 2024 - Sep 13, 2024Saturday - Friday
Oct 05, 2024 - Oct 11, 2024Saturday - Friday
Nov 02, 2024 - Nov 08, 2024Saturday - Friday
Nov 30, 2024 - Dec 06, 2024Saturday - Friday
Dec 14, 2024 - Dec 20, 2024Saturday - Friday
Dec 21, 2024 - Dec 27, 2024Saturday - Friday
Jan 11, 2025 - Jan 17, 2025Saturday - Friday
Feb 08, 2025 - Feb 14, 2025Saturday - Friday
Mar 08, 2025 - Mar 14, 2025Saturday - Friday
Apr 05, 2025 - Apr 11, 2025Saturday - Friday
May 03, 2025 - May 09, 2025Saturday - Friday
May 31, 2025 - Jun 06, 2025Saturday - Friday
Jun 28, 2025 - Jul 04, 2025Saturday - Friday
Jul 12, 2025 - Jul 18, 2025Saturday - Friday
Aug 09, 2025 - Aug 15, 2025Saturday - Friday
Sep 06, 2025 - Sep 12, 2025Saturday - Friday
Oct 04, 2025 - Oct 10, 2025Saturday - Friday
Nov 01, 2025 - Nov 07, 2025Saturday - Friday
Nov 29, 2025 - Dec 05, 2025Saturday - Friday
Dec 13, 2025 - Dec 19, 2025Saturday - Friday
Dec 20, 2025 - Dec 26, 2025Book with Confidence
-
Free Date Changes
Active Adventures allows you to make 1 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 90 days before the start of the tour.
-
Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Active Adventures allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform active adventures, 90 days before departure.
-
Low Deposit
Active Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 500 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of active adventures charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
-
COVID-19 Proof of Vaccination or Testing For trips in the United States:?Vaccination is not required. All guests must adhere to the current Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regulations and guidelines.
For all International trips (all destinations except the United States):?All guests aged 13 years and above must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 at least fourteen (14) days prior to the commencement of travel.?
We accept vaccines authorized or recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO), Centers for Disease Control (CDC), European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).
Adults who cannot be vaccinated due to valid medical exemptions will need to provide a negative COVID-19 test result (official paper or official electronic record) showing the test was carried out no later than 72 hours before the trip starts. Testing must be performed by an approved entity.
Proof of full COVID-19 vaccination or negative test (where applicable) must be provided prior to the start of your trip (only official vaccination card or electronic record will be accepted).
Proof of Vaccination or Negative Test must include identifying information (full name), as well as the vaccination or the test dates.
Proof of Vaccination must demonstrate the final dose of the vaccine was administered at least fourteen (14) days prior to the commencement of your trip.
You will be required to upload Proof of Vaccination into your Travel Wallet prior to departure.
If Proof of Vaccination or a Negative Test is not produced at the commencement of travel with us, you will not be allowed to travel. You will not be eligible to receive a refund of any sums paid to us if this occurs.??
Guests must comply with any additional vaccination or testing requirements and/or additional health and safety measures that are required to travel in their chosen destination. We recommend using?CIBT for up-to-date requirements.?
We do not grant any exceptions to this vaccination and testing policy.?
Why book with tourhub?
Safe & Secure
Your money is protected in an external trust until you travel.
100% Guaranteed Refunds if your trip is cancelled.
The safest way to make overseas, multi-currency payments.
Guaranteed Best Value
Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.
No cancellation or amendment fees from tourhub.
(Operator terms may apply)
Expert Knowledge
Reliable & unbiased advice from travel experts.
Direct contact with the tour operator via our messaging service.
Inspiration & advice from a community of 6000+ real travellers, influencers & content creators.
Trusted Service
Official partners & licensed agents of 1000+ tour operators worldwide.
Don't just take our word for it...
"Tourhub: Friendliness, Professionalism & Integrity I would happily give tourhub a 6* review if I could..."