7 Days | Explore these islands and see the wildlife in a week

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Follow in the footsteps of Charles Darwin on this wildlife-filled adventure 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.
Trip overview

- Start
- Isla San Cristobal, Ecuador
- Finish
- Isla Santa Cruz, Ecuador
- Theme
- Wildlife
- Destinations
- Ecuador
- Physical rating
- Indicates how physically exerting a trip is, and how fit you will need to be to enjoy it. More info on physical ratings
- Style
- Basix
- Ages
- Min 15
- Group size
- Min 1 - Max 15
- Trip code
- GGRX
- 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.
Itinerary
View the itinerary for departures between 01 January 2024 - 31 December 2024
Inclusions
6 breakfasts
Speed boat, Private Vehicle, Public bus
Hotel (6 nights)
- Isla San Cristobal - Interpretation Center (45 minutes)
- Isla San Cristobal - Snorkelling in Tijeretas Hill
- Isla Santa Cruz - Highlands Visit (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing
- Isla Santa Cruz - Charles Darwin Research Centre (45 Minutes)
- Isla Isabela - Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre (1 Hour)
- Isla Isabela - Sierra Negra Volcano Hike (5-6 Hours)
- Santa Cruz Marine Reserves - Half Day Boat Tour
- Kicker Rock excursion - USD120
- Frigate Bird Hill - Free
- Mann Beach - Free
- Snorkelling gear rental - USD5
- Isla Lobos. - USD80
- Isla Tintoreras - USD47
- Isla Isabela - wetsuite rental - USD15
- Kayak rental - USD50
- Isla Isabela - Snorkeling in Concha y Perla - Free
- Isabela Island – Snorkelling gear rental - USD5
- Tunneles Snorkelling - USD120
- Isla Santa Cruz - Tortuga Bay walk - Free
- Scuba Diving - Galapagos islands - USD280
Dates and availability
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.
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