Explore these otherworldly islands in a week
Follow in the footsteps of Charles Darwin on this wildlife-filled Lonely Planet Experience through nature’s playground. Snorkel with sea lions, get up close to giant tortoises, scale a volcanic crater and discover the incredible evolutionary history of the Galapagos Islands, all under the guidance of an expert naturalist guide. With accommodation on Isla San Cristobal, Isla Santa Cruz and Isla Isabela, this trip is perfect for people who don’t want to tour the islands on a cruise. Included activities are both educational and immersive, while still allowing you plenty of free time to relax or get active at your own pace.
A powerful partnership
Lonely Planet and Intrepid Travel share the same philosophy: we help curious people explore the world.
Snorkel in Tijeretas and keep an eye out for eagle rays, Galapagos sea turtles, sea lions and plenty of colourful fish.
Scale a volcano on Isla Isabela, a 17-kilometre hike that rewards you with epic views across the island plus the possibility of sighting the rare, red-feathered vermilion flycatcher.
Head to the highlands of Isla Santa Cruz to see giant tortoises munching grass, walking slowly and chilling in their natural habitat.
You have the option to tailor your experience with unforgettable optional excursions like nature hikes, boat trips and scuba diving.
Learn about Galapagos’ natural and exploratory history with a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station and learn about conservation efforts to preserve their ecosystems.
This trip involves day travel by boat between the various islands of the Galapagos. The good news is that seasickness can often be managed with medication and by consulting a health professional before you travel.
The trip includes a 17-kilometre hike (approximately 5–6 hours) on rocky terrain. We recommend bringing comfortable walking shoes that offer good support.
Understandably, many of our travellers express interest in scuba diving in the Galapagos. We are now able to assist with booking this activity, though please note that our staff are only able to do this through a provider that meets our internal safety policy. Speak to an Intrepid agent at the time of booking for more information.
Trip departures are unavailable.
There are currently no scheduled departures on our Galapagos Experience trip. If you are interested in other trips in the region visit one of the links below.
COVID-19 ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Ecuador has implemented COVID-19 testing requirements for entry to the country, including special conditions for Galapagos. Please refer to your government's foreign travel advice for the most up to date information.
GALAPAGOS PARK, TRANSIT CARD & ISABELA PORT FEES
Before you board your flight to the islands, at either Quito or Guayaquil Airports, you need to purchase your Galapagos Transit Control Card (USD 20) at the Consejo de Gobierno counter in the entrance hall; if you haven’t purchased this card you might be denied boarding. You will need to be at the airport at least two hours prior to the departure time as this can be a lengthy process. You will also need to have cash on hand as credit cards are not accepted.
After you have purchased the Transit Control Card you will have to take your luggage to the SICGAL counter where they will seal your bags. Then proceed to the check-in counter of your airline.
The Galapagos park fee (USD 100) and Isabela Port fee (USD 10) are payable upon arrival in the islands (cash only). These amounts are in addition to your trip payment.
When booking, please ensure that your details are correct and they match your passport. Your passport must match the booking details provided to us; otherwise it could cause issues with your transit card and internal flights, which could mean you need to buy a new card and flights at your own expense.
JOINING POINT INSTRUCTIONS
Please see the joining point instructions included in your Essential Trip Information.
TRIP FINISH POINT
This trip finishes at a centrally-located hotel on Isla Santa Cruz, usually Lobo de Mar Hotel. For those who need to organise departure flight, Baltra Airport is the closest airport.
SCUBA DIVING IN GALAPAGOS:
You also have the option later in this adventure to go scuba diving. To take part in this activity, you will need to already have a scuba diving certification. All dives finish by 12.30 pm and, since you need to wait at least 18 hours between diving and boarding a flight, you will need to stay in Santa Cruz at least one additional day. Where you will dive depends on when your trip ends and how long you can stay in Santa Cruz. See below for diving locations and experience level required:
Mondays: Dive off Floreana. Basic/Intermediate level
Tuesdays: Dive off Santa Fe. Basic/Intermediate level
Wednesdays: Dive off Seymour Canal & Mosquera Sur. Basic/Intermediate level
Thursdays: Dive off Gordon Rocks. Advanced level
Fridays: Dive off Beagle & Daphne. Intermediate level
Saturdays: Dive off Seymour Punta & Mosquera North. Basic/Intermediate level
Sundays: Dive off Gordon Rocks. Advanced level
We can assist you to book extra accommodation and we can make a booking with the diving company for you.
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT NOT AVAILABLE
Due to hotel availability, a single supplement is not available on this trip.
STARTING IN QUITO
This trip has a longer version, trip code GGRR, which includes return flights from Quito.
INTERNET IN THE GALAPAGOS
Some of the hotels in the Galapagos do have internet connections; however, it's often very slow and may not always be functional.
HOT WATER FACILITIES
Please note that in the Galapagos, many of the hotel's hot water services are limited and, as such, hot water may not always be available. Cold showers may be the only option.
Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.
View Essential Trip Information
