Tour Description

Amazing wildlife, both on land and under the water, is the main drawcard of the remote Galapagos Islands. On this eight-day trip, you’ll explore this otherworldly archipelago on foot and by boat with an expert naturalist guide to lead the way. Swim with sea turtles, see giant tortoises up close, watch sea lions lounge around town and discover fascinating, varied landscapes. Learn about the conservation efforts on Isla Santa Cruz, take a cooking class to make a famed Ecuadorian soup and enjoy multiple snorkelling opportunities, as well as a full-day hike to the second-largest volcanic crater in the world! This trip will have you cruising and exploring by day and relaxing on land by night, with all the logistics taken care of for you.

Priced From:

$ 3449.00pp ^*

Valid From: 01JAN2025

Valid To: 31DEC2025

Start Location: Isla San Cristobal

End Location: Isla Santa Cruz

Countries: Ecuador,

Tour Advisors

Tiffany McCrea-Lennon

Managing Director

Chris McKinnel

Travel Specialist

Gaylyn Murdoch

Administration Manager

Russell Mein

Travel Specialist

Holly Skene

Travel Co-ordinator

Kim Thomas

Broker

Highlights

Learn about the unique habits of the marine iguana with your expert naturalist guide. This dinosaur-like creature has an iridescent sheen and is only found on the Galapagos Islands.

Snorkel the incredible waters of Leon Dormido (Kicker Rock) – an eroded volcanic cone where sea turtles, rays and colourful fish call home.

See the giant tortoises that freely roam the islands. Many visitors come to Isla Santa Cruz just to see these enormous creatures in their natural habitat!

Watch the aerobatic routines of blue-footed boobies and the death-defying stunts of the frigate birds as they whizz through the air. Calling all avid birdwatchers!

Start and end your trip in the Galapagos (as opposed to mainland Ecuador) – this means it’s easy to stay longer if you fall in love with the archipelago.

Itinerary

Bienvenidos! Welcome to San Cristobal in the Galapagos Islands. After joining up with your fellow travellers and your local naturalist guide, you’ll head to La Loberia and put on your snorkelling gear for the first time. Go for a swim among the sea lions and maybe even spot sea turtles, too! After, you’ll return to town, where you have a free evening to head out with the group and get to know each other better. Maybe find some fresh seafood to enjoy or wander the shores at your own pace.

Take a 45-minute boat ride to Leon Dormido (Kicker Rock) this morning. On the way, you might be able to spot nesting frigates and blue-footed boobies. You might even get the chance to swim among the sea lions again. At Leon Dormido, you can snorkel and look for sea turtles, manta rays and the harmless Galapagos shark. Eat lunch on the boat, then head to the Interpretation Center. Learn about the history of the 'Enchanted Islands' and the conservation projects that seek to preserve them. Continue to Frigatebird Hill (Cerro Tijeretas) – it's quite a climb to the top, but well worth the amazing views of the bay. Then, return to town in the late afternoon for a free evening.

Take an early morning boat ride to Isla Floreana and look for dolphins and whales along the way. Snorkel in the clear blue waters and then break for lunch. After, venture to a black-sand beach belonging to the Witmers – descendants of some of the first settlers on the Galapagos. The town here – Puerto Velasco Ibarra – has about 150 residents and an intriguing history involving deaths, disappearances and murders. Later in the afternoon, wave goodbye to Floreana and continue to Isla Isabela, where you’ll spend the night.

This morning, you’ll hop on a small Zodiac boat and cruise to Las Tintoreras (Shark Alley), looking out for blue-footed boobies and the famous Galapagos penguin. Take a short walk on this isolated islet and popular iguana nesting site, then snorkel in a calm inlet with colourful fish and winding underground lava tubes. This area is also frequented by green sea turtles that like to rest on the calm, sandy bottom. Return to Isla Isabela and visit the Arnaldo Tupiza Tortoise Breeding Center, where you'll observe giant tortoises in all stages of development. After learning about the thousand turtles that are preparing for life here, you’ll head to a brackish lagoon to observe flamingos. Later today, take a kayak around the island and spend your evening resting in the sand and soaking in your first Isabela sunset – arguably the most beautiful of all the islands!

Start your last day on Isla Isabela by heading towards the Sierra Negra Volcano – one of the Galapagos’ most active volcanoes and the world's second-largest crater! Weather permitting, you’ll take a challenging hike of around 17 km up the rocky mountain. After, make your way back to town for some free time to curl up with a book, soak your tired muscles or venture down to the water for a relaxing swim before dinner.

Jump aboard a private speedboat this morning and head to Isla Santa Cruz. When you arrive, leave your bags at the hotel and head to the Santa Cruz Highlands. Your first stop is a local farm, where giant tortoises roam the grounds freely. Here, you’ll meet with an expert chef for a cooking class to make the famed encebollado – a local tuna soup that’s widely considered one of the best in the world! This hearty dish uses slow-cooked albacore tuna and a savoury broth made of onions, cilantro and spices. The dish is traditionally served with yuca (a starchy root vegetable) and garnished with lime and green onions. Enjoy the soups of your labour for lunch, then wander the grounds with the slow-paced residents. After lunch, you’ll visit an organic sugar cane farm run by a local family for a tour of their trapiche (a sugar cane mill used in artisanal sugar production). See how the family harvests and processes sugar cane and cacao and how they work with the local community.

Take a morning walk in Tortuga Bay after breakfast. Along the way, keep an eye out for eagle rays, sea turtles and blue-footed boobies. Later, you’ll head to the local fish market for a dose of local life on the way to The Galapagos Conservancy, who help protect the Galapagos' unique biodiversity. Learn how The Intrepid Foundation supports the Galapagos Conservancy Women in Sustainable Entrepreneurship (WISE) program, which provides critical capital for sustainability initiatives and builds the entrepreneurial capacity of Galapagos women. After, head to the Charles Darwin Research Station – an international non-profit organisation that’s dedicated to the scientific research and conservation of the archipelago’s environment and biodiversity.

Your trip comes to an end this morning after breakfast. If you need to book a connecting flight out of the Galapagos, or if you'd like to extend your stay, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.

Dates & prices

Dates

Prices

Availability

Departure Date :

24NOV2024

Return Date :

01DEC2024

3855NZD

not available

Departure Date :

27NOV2024

Return Date :

04DEC2024

3710NZD

not available

Departure Date :

04DEC2024

Return Date :

11DEC2024

3890NZD

available

Departure Date :

08DEC2024

Return Date :

15DEC2024

3855NZD

available

Departure Date :

11DEC2024

Return Date :

18DEC2024

3930NZD

available

Departure Date :

15DEC2024

Return Date :

22DEC2024

4120NZD

available

Departure Date :

18DEC2024

Return Date :

25DEC2024

3855NZD

available

Departure Date :

22DEC2024

Return Date :

29DEC2024

3970NZD

available

Departure Date :

25DEC2024

Return Date :

01JAN2025

3970NZD

available

Departure Date :

27DEC2024

Return Date :

03JAN2025

3890NZD

available

Trip Notes

Last modified (date)

07 Aug 2024

Trip title

Galapagos Island Hopping

Trip code

GGTG

Validity

Validity: 01 Jan 2025 to 31 Dec 2025

Introduction

Style

Original

Themes

Wildlife

Transport

Speed Boat,Private Vehicle

Physical Rating

Physical preparation

The physical activities on this trip, such as snorkelling and hiking, do require some consideration regarding your physical abilities to complete the activity. You are more than welcome to opt out of activities or talk to your Guide about tailoring a less physical option for you.

Joining point

Casa de Nelly Hotel

Peñas bajas Av. Alsacio northia s/n

Isla San Cristobal

ECUADOR

Alternate Joining point

For trips departing on the following dates, use this joining point.

05 Jan 2025 (GGTG250105), 10 Jan 2025 (GGTG250110), 12 Jan 2025 (GGTG250112), 19 Jan 2025 (GGTG250119), 26 Jan 2025 (GGTG250126), 02 Feb 2025 (GGTG250202), 09 Feb 2025 (GGTG250209), 14 Feb 2025 (GGTG250214), 16 Feb 2025 (GGTG250216), 21 Feb 2025 (GGTG250221), 26 Feb 2025 (GGTG250226), 02 Mar 2025 (GGTG250302), 09 Mar 2025 (GGTG250309), 14 Mar 2025 (GGTG250314), 16 Mar 2025 (GGTG250316), 23 Mar 2025 (GGTG250323), 26 Mar 2025 (GGTG250326), 02 Apr 2025 (GGTG250402), 09 Apr 2025 (GGTG250409), 11 Apr 2025 (GGTG250411), 13 Apr 2025 (GGTG250413), 16 Apr 2025 (GGTG250416), 18 Apr 2025 (GGTG250418), 20 Apr 2025 (GGTG250420), 25 Apr 2025 (GGTG250425), 27 Apr 2025 (GGTG250427), 04 May 2025 (GGTG250504), 09 May 2025 (GGTG250509), 11 May 2025 (GGTG250511), 14 May 2025 (GGTG250514), 18 May 2025 (GGTG250518), 21 May 2025 (GGTG250521), 23 May 2025 (GGTG250523), 25 May 2025 (GGTG250525), 30 May 2025 (GGTG250530), 01 Jun 2025 (GGTG250601), 08 Jun 2025 (GGTG250608), 15 Jun 2025 (GGTG250615), 20 Jun 2025 (GGTG250620), 22 Jun 2025 (GGTG250622), 29 Jun 2025 (GGTG250629), 04 Jul 2025 (GGTG250704), 06 Jul 2025 (GGTG250706), 13 Jul 2025 (GGTG250713), 16 Jul 2025 (GGTG250716), 18 Jul 2025 (GGTG250718), 20 Jul 2025 (GGTG250720), 27 Jul 2025 (GGTG250727), 03 Aug 2025 (GGTG250803), 10 Aug 2025 (GGTG250810), 17 Aug 2025 (GGTG250817), 24 Aug 2025 (GGTG250824), 29 Aug 2025 (GGTG250829), 31 Aug 2025 (GGTG250831), 07 Sep 2025 (GGTG250907), 12 Sep 2025 (GGTG250912), 14 Sep 2025 (GGTG250914), 19 Sep 2025 (GGTG250919), 21 Sep 2025 (GGTG250921), 26 Sep 2025 (GGTG250926), 28 Sep 2025 (GGTG250928), 05 Oct 2025 (GGTG251005), 10 Oct 2025 (GGTG251010), 12 Oct 2025 (GGTG251012), 17 Oct 2025 (GGTG251017), 19 Oct 2025 (GGTG251019), 26 Oct 2025 (GGTG251026), 31 Oct 2025 (GGTG251031), 02 Nov 2025 (GGTG251102), 07 Nov 2025 (GGTG251107), 09 Nov 2025 (GGTG251109), 14 Nov 2025 (GGTG251114), 16 Nov 2025 (GGTG251116), 23 Nov 2025 (GGTG251123), 28 Nov 2025 (GGTG251128), 03 Dec 2025 (GGTG251203), 05 Dec 2025 (GGTG251205), 07 Dec 2025 (GGTG251207), 12 Dec 2025 (GGTG251212), 14 Dec 2025 (GGTG251214), 17 Dec 2025 (GGTG251217), 19 Dec 2025 (GGTG251219), 21 Dec 2025 (GGTG251221), 24 Dec 2025 (GGTG251224), 26 Dec 2025 (GGTG251226), 28 Dec 2025 (GGTG251228), 02 Jan 2026 (GGTG260102), 04 Jan 2026 (GGTG260104), 09 Jan 2026 (GGTG260109), 11 Jan 2026 (GGTG260111), 18 Jan 2026 (GGTG260118), 25 Jan 2026 (GGTG260125), 01 Feb 2026 (GGTG260201), 08 Feb 2026 (GGTG260208), 13 Feb 2026 (GGTG260213), 15 Feb 2026 (GGTG260215), 20 Feb 2026 (GGTG260220), 22 Feb 2026 (GGTG260222), 25 Feb 2026 (GGTG260225), 01 Mar 2026 (GGTG260301), 06 Mar 2026 (GGTG260306), 08 Mar 2026 (GGTG260308), 13 Mar 2026 (GGTG260313), 15 Mar 2026 (GGTG260315), 22 Mar 2026 (GGTG260322), 25 Mar 2026 (GGTG260325), 01 Apr 2026 (GGTG260401), 05 Apr 2026 (GGTG260405), 08 Apr 2026 (GGTG260408), 10 Apr 2026 (GGTG260410), 12 Apr 2026 (GGTG260412), 15 Apr 2026 (GGTG260415), 17 Apr 2026 (GGTG260417), 19 Apr 2026 (GGTG260419), 24 Apr 2026 (GGTG260424), 26 Apr 2026 (GGTG260426), 03 May 2026 (GGTG260503), 08 May 2026 (GGTG260508), 10 May 2026 (GGTG260510), 13 May 2026 (GGTG260513), 17 May 2026 (GGTG260517), 20 May 2026 (GGTG260520), 22 May 2026 (GGTG260522), 24 May 2026 (GGTG260524), 29 May 2026 (GGTG260529), 31 May 2026 (GGTG260531), 07 Jun 2026 (GGTG260607), 14 Jun 2026 (GGTG260614), 19 Jun 2026 (GGTG260619), 21 Jun 2026 (GGTG260621), 28 Jun 2026 (GGTG260628), 03 Jul 2026 (GGTG260703), 05 Jul 2026 (GGTG260705), 12 Jul 2026 (GGTG260712), 15 Jul 2026 (GGTG260715), 17 Jul 2026 (GGTG260717), 19 Jul 2026 (GGTG260719), 26 Jul 2026 (GGTG260726), 02 Aug 2026 (GGTG260802), 09 Aug 2026 (GGTG260809), 16 Aug 2026 (GGTG260816), 23 Aug 2026 (GGTG260823), 28 Aug 2026 (GGTG260828), 30 Aug 2026 (GGTG260830), 06 Sep 2026 (GGTG260906), 11 Sep 2026 (GGTG260911), 13 Sep 2026 (GGTG260913), 18 Sep 2026 (GGTG260918), 20 Sep 2026 (GGTG260920), 25 Sep 2026 (GGTG260925), 27 Sep 2026 (GGTG260927), 04 Oct 2026 (GGTG261004), 09 Oct 2026 (GGTG261009), 11 Oct 2026 (GGTG261011), 16 Oct 2026 (GGTG261016), 18 Oct 2026 (GGTG261018), 25 Oct 2026 (GGTG261025), 30 Oct 2026 (GGTG261030), 01 Nov 2026 (GGTG261101), 06 Nov 2026 (GGTG261106), 08 Nov 2026 (GGTG261108), 13 Nov 2026 (GGTG261113), 15 Nov 2026 (GGTG261115), 22 Nov 2026 (GGTG261122), 27 Nov 2026 (GGTG261127), 02 Dec 2026 (GGTG261202), 04 Dec 2026 (GGTG261204), 06 Dec 2026 (GGTG261206), 11 Dec 2026 (GGTG261211), 13 Dec 2026 (GGTG261213), 16 Dec 2026 (GGTG261216), 18 Dec 2026 (GGTG261218), 20 Dec 2026 (GGTG261220), 23 Dec 2026 (GGTG261223), 25 Dec 2026 (GGTG261225), 27 Dec 2026 (GGTG261227), 03 Jan 2027 (GGTG270103)

Casa de Nelly Hotel

Peñas bajas Av. Alsacio northia s/n

Isla San Cristobal

ECUADOR

Alternate Joining point instructions

Intrepid can assist with pre-booking an arrival transfer from the airport - enquire with your agent. Please advise your flight arrival details at least 14 days prior to your departure. If you have confirmed an arrival transfer, you’ll be met as you exit the International Arrival Hall by a transfer representative holding an Intrepid sign. If you cannot find your transfer representative, or if your flight is delayed, please call our local operations team on +593 99 401 4877. Neither the driver nor any representative should ask you for additional payment. If you are making your own way to the joining point hotel, taxi ranks are available outside the airport entrance. Exit the International Arrivals Hall and walk through the airport exit gates. There you will find yellow taxis. Taxi fare to your hotel in town will cost approx. $25 USD in total. These taxis charge a fixed fare and don't use a meter. Alternatively, you can use Uber ride-share app. We recommend downloading and setting up the app, including payment information, prior to departing your home country.

Finish point

Lobo de Mar Hotel

12 de febrero y Avenida Charles Darwin

Isla Santa Cruz

ECUADOR

Phone: 593 526569

Important information

1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 2. Full passport details are required at the time of booking. The passport you travel with must match the booking details provided to us. This information is necessary to purchase entry permits to certain sites. Delays in providing this information could result in additional booking fees or changes to your itinerary. 3. All visitors to the Galapagos must have a Transit Control Card. Please see the 'Passport, Visas and Entry Requirements' section of the Essential Trip Information for more details. 4. The Galapagos National Park fee (US$200) and Isabela Port fee (US$10) are payable upon arrival to the islands (cash only). These amounts are in addition to your trip payment. 5. Please refer to the Special Information section on Day 1 of the Itinerary for instructions on how to join your group. 6. Strict rules apply in the Galapagos Islands to protect and preserve its unique biodiversity. Intrepid supports these rules, which range from times of the day that a destination can be visited to the distance kept between people and wildlife. In particular, not removing anything from the environment (shells and corals, for example). All rules will be explained in more detail by your leader when you join the trip. Not adhering to these rules can lead to hefty fines for travellers and Intrepid losing the license to operate in the Galapagos Islands. Failure to adhere to the rules can result in your removal from the trip without a refund. For more information: http://www.galapagos.org/travel/travel/park-rules/

Group leader

All group trips are accompanied by one of our group leader or local representative. The aim of the group leader or local representative is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Intrepid endeavours to provide the services of an experienced group leader or local representative however, due to the seasonality of travel, rare situations may arise where your group leader or local representative is new to a particular region or training other group leader or local representative. Your group leader or local representative will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects. At Intrepid we aim to support local guides who have specialised knowledge of the regions we visit. If you are interested in delving deeper into the local culture at a specific site or location then your group leader or local representative can recommend a local guide service in most of the main destinations of your trip. All of our Galapagos Leaders are registered and trained in conservation and natural sciences by the Charles Darwin Foundation and licensed by the Galapagos National Park Service. Your Galapagos Leader will be with you throughout your time on the islands, accompanying you on all included excursions.

Safety

Most national governments provide regularly updated foreign travel advice on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your trip. Please refer to our website's safety page for links to major travel advisories and updates on safety issues affecting our trips here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/travel-alerts We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe-keeping of your passport, flight tickets, cash and other valuable items. Leave your jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of our hotels have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. Your group leader or local representative will accompany you on all included activities, however, during your trip you'll have some free time to pursue your own interests or relax and take it easy. While your group leader or local representative will assist you with the available options in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your Intrepid itinerary, and Intrepid makes no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Please also note that your group leader or local representative has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it's deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Intrepid's operational safety policies can be viewed on our website at the link below. We recommend that you take a moment to read through this information before travelling, and would appreciate any feedback on how safety is being managed on our trips.

https://www.intrepidtravel.com/safety-guidelines

LIFE JACKETS During this trip we have various boat, ferries and speedboat rides, life jackets are compulsory by law and we require you to wear them.

SNORKELLING IN THE GALAPAGOS: Like any physical outdoor activity, snorkelling does have some safety risks. While we provide adequate training to our guides and suitable safety briefing information to our travellers, ultimately you must also be responsible for your own safety. There is no official snorkelling guide certification in Galapagos, so your activity leader will not be a professional snorkelling guide. If you have no or poor swimming ability you should not take part and can do alternative activities instead. Please discuss this directly with your guide and only take part in snorkelling if you feel confident that all safety information is clear and that you are competent to partake the activity.

WATER SAFETY: Please take care when taking part in any activities in the ocean, river or open water, where waves and currents can be unpredictable. It's expected that anyone taking part in water activities is able to swim and have experience in open water. All swimmers should seek local advice before entering the water.

The sun in the Galapagos islands is incredibly strong due to its close proximity to the equator, ensure you are well prepared with suncreen, sun hat, sunglasses and a rash guard if desired.

PETTY THEFT AND PERSONAL SAFETY While travelling there is always the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft, particularly in the more touristy cities. We recommend that you exercise caution when walking alone at night and encourage you to walk together and only on main, well-lit thoroughfares. Be particularly vigilant on public transport. Simple measures like carrying your day pack on your front, not hanging your bag over the back of your chair or on the floor and wearing a money belt will reduce any chance that your valuables should go missing.

MONEY WITHDRAWAL: In order to avoid fraud and theft, it is advisable that you withdraw money from ATMs located inside banks or guarded shops during business hours only.

TRAFFIC AND DRIVING ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE ROAD: Depending on where you come from please note that drivers in this part of the world may drive on the opposite side of the road from what you are used to. Look both ways before crossing any road. Traffic can be a little more chaotic than you might be used to at home. Be aware!

SEAT BELTS: Please be aware that local laws governing transportation safety may differ from those in your home country and not all the transport which we use is able to provide seat belts.

FIRE PRECAUTIONS: Please be aware that local laws governing tourism facilities in this region differ from those in your home country and not all the accommodation which we use has a fire exit, fire extinguishers or smoke alarms.

Communications

WhatsApp is a popular way to communicate in Latin America. We recommended downloading WhatsApp prior to departure to communicate by text with your group leader or local representative and group members during the tour. Once downloaded, please validate your phone number before leaving home as you will not be able to do this once you arrive unless you have international roaming enabled. Connections for making phone calls through WhatsApp are not reliable, so please do not use this app to make calls to our emergency phone line.

Visas

PASSPORT You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date. We need your passport information to get everything ready for your trip so it’s important that the information on your booking matches your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends. VISAS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your trip and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your trip. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the entry requirements for your nationality on your government's foreign travel advisories, consular websites or on our page here: www.intrepidtravel.com/visa-entry-requirements GALAPAGOS TRANSIT CONTROL CARD The local government council has introduced a Transit Control Card (TCC) system for travel to the Galapagos. You can pre-register online for your TCC between 1 and 7 days before departure via the website below. To complete your pre-registration, you will need a hotel list specific to your tour and departure, which we can provide at the time of booking. https://siiws.gobiernogalapagos.gob.ec/siicgg_web/ Before your flight to the Galapagos, you must obtain your TCC from the Galapagos Government Council counter, located in the domestic departures area of the Quito or Guayaquil airport. To do this, you will need to show your passport, provide your return flight details, and pay $20 USD in cash. Please retain your TCC along with your passport, as you will be required to present them upon arrival in the Galapagos Islands. This requirement is mandatory for all tourists visiting the Galapagos Islands and is separate from the National Park entry fee. Tour operators and travel agencies do not manage this process. The initiative aims to help the Galapagos National Park and the Ecuadorian government track, control, and promote sustainable tourism, preserving the archipelago's delicate ecosystem.

Why we love it

Learn about the unique habits of the marine iguana with your expert naturalist guide. This dinosaur-like creature has an iridescent sheen and is only found on the Galapagos Islands.

Snorkel the incredible waters of Leon Dormido (Kicker Rock) – an eroded volcanic cone where sea turtles, rays and colourful fish call home.

See the giant tortoises that freely roam the islands. Many visitors come to Isla Santa Cruz just to see these enormous creatures in their natural habitat!

Watch the aerobatic routines of blue-footed boobies and the death-defying stunts of the frigate birds as they whizz through the air. Calling all avid birdwatchers!

Start and end your trip in the Galapagos (as opposed to mainland Ecuador) – this means it’s easy to stay longer if you fall in love with the archipelago.

Is this trip right for you

If you would like your return travel from Quito included, please search the website for our trip Best of Galapagos (GGTF). This trip includes a 17 km hike (approximately 6 to 7 hours) on rocky terrain. We recommend bringing sturdy, comfortable hiking or trail shoes with good support. Please see Day 5 of the Itinerary for more information. This trip involves a lot of travel by speedboat between the various Galapagos Islands. The rides can be quite bumpy at times, but the good news is that seasickness can often be managed with medication. Please consult a health professional to assess your suitability for such medication. From June to August the water in the Galapagos can be rougher than usual. Consequently, travel times will be longer than usual. If you suffer from seasickness you may want to reconsider travelling during this period. Proximity to the equator means the sun in the Galapagos is incredibly strong. Ensure you are prepared with sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. We also recommend a rash guard. This trip includes snorkelling on multiple days. Confident swimming skills are required to take part. Alternative activities will not be available. Many travellers express interest in diving in the Galapagos. We are now able to assist with booking this activity, but only through a provider that meets our internal safety policy. Speak to your agent at the time of booking for more information. The Galapagos is a great place to switch off and take a break from your phone, as internet access can be patchy and wi-fi is not always available or reliable. Hot water can be sporadic in some parts of the Galapagos, so there may be a few cold showers on the trip.

Health

GENERAL HEALTH All travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully on this trip. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell prior to travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements. When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to manage and enjoy our style of travel. Please note that if in the assessment of our group leader or local representative a traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund. You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements in their original packaging as they may not easily be obtained while travelling. If you are carrying medication, ensure you check your government's foreign travel advice for any local restrictions or requirements. SUNSCREEN While at sea and when exploring the islands, you may be exposed to the sun for large parts of the day. It’s important to use sun protection and drink plenty of water. SEA SICKNESS- GALAPAGOS Please note that from June to August the water is rougher than usual. Consequently travel times will be longer than usual. If you suffer from seasickness you may want to reconsider travelling during this period. YELLOW FEVER A valid international certificate of vaccination against Yellow Fever is required in many countries. You may need to present this on arrival at the airport or border crossing. Some countries will refuse entry if you are unable to present your certificate. It's also quite common for your home country to request a Yellow Fever certificate on your arrival back home. It is your responsibility to check with your doctor well in advance of leaving home about the Yellow Fever requirements for the countries you'll be visiting.

Food and dietary requirements

While travelling with us you'll experience the vast array of wonderful food available in this region. Your group leader or local representative will be able to suggest restaurants to try during your trip. To give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat, generally not all meals are included in the trip price. This also gives you more budgeting flexibility. As a rule, our groups tend to eat dinner together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There's no obligation to do this though. DIETARY REQUIREMENTS Please let us know your diet requirements before your trip starts. Generally speaking, in bigger cities/towns vegetarians can expect a reasonable range of vegetarian venues and/or vegetarian options within tourist restaurant menus. However, vegetarianism is not the norm in this part of the world so options can be limited when eating at homestays, small local restaurants, street stalls, markets, etc. More restrictive diet requirements (vegans, coeliac, gluten intolerance, fructose intolerance, lactose intolerance, etc.) can also be accommodated along this trip but you should expect a lesser variety than what you can expect at home. We recommend that, if possible, to bring your own supply of snacks with you. For those on strict Kosher or Halal diets, we understand your dietary requirements are important, however, sometimes due to cultural and language differences these are not always easy to convey when you are travelling. Your guide will do their best to assist you in translating your needs when eating out, but please be aware that these diets are almost unheard of in much of the continent and the best they may be able to accommodate is no pork and shellfish. If this will be a concern for you you may need to consider opting for vegetarian or vegan meals for the included meals in your itinerary. We recommend researching kosher or halal options in your destination country prior to travel to see if you are able to buy snacks once there, otherwise consider bringing some from home. PRICES IN THE GALAPAGOS Please note that prices for food and beverages in the Galapagos are generally more expensive than Ecuador mainland and other parts of South America.

Money matters

When it comes to money matters on the trip, every traveller is a little different. You know your spending habits better than we do, so please budget a sensible amount for things like drinks, shopping, optional activities, tipping and laundry. It’s always better to bring a little more than you think you’ll need. Also make sure you’ve read your trip details thoroughly so you know what’s included in the trip price and what isn’t. This should make budgeting a little easier. You’ll find this info in the Inclusions section of your Essential Trip Information (that’s this document). The recommended amounts are listed in USD for the relatability of universal travellers, however the local currency is needed in the countries you are visiting. The official currency of Ecuador is the US dollar (USD). CREDIT CARDS & ATMs: In Ecuador, ATMs often limit the amount you can withdraw. This can be USD100-200 per day depending on your card, so you may want to bring some USD cash from home. ATM's are available in Isla Santa Cruz and Isla San Cristobal. There are no ATM's in Isabela. Credit cards are accepted in some shops and stores in Santa Cruz, San Cristobal and Isabela. Check with your bank before departure that your card is accepted in the countries you are travelling to and what their fees and charges are. Also ensure your bank is aware of your travel plans as - suspecting fraud - they may cancel your cards after the first few international transactions. Be aware that your withdrawing limit may vary from country to country (regardless of your withdrawing limit in your home country). If bringing over cash, please note USD100 bills with serial number CB or BE and any other USD bills that are old, torn, written or stamped on will not be accepted by local banks. CONTINGENCY FUNDS: We try to plan for every eventuality, but there are still some things beyond our control. Please make sure you have access to the equivalent of an extra US$500 for emergencies (e.g. severe weather, natural disasters, civil unrest) or other events that result in unavoidable changes to the itinerary (e.g. transport strikes or cancellations, airport closures). Sometimes these things necessitate last minute changes to enable our trips to continue to run, and as a result there may be some extra costs involved. MEALS NOT INCLUDED: For this trip we recommend between USD 25 to 50 per day. How do we work this out? Breakfast - If breakfast is not included, you can expect to pay between USD5 to USD10 at a local café. Lunch - If you are happy with a quick snack on the go, you may get away with as little as USD5 to USD10 for a set menu at a local eatery or a sandwich and a drink at a café. On the other hand, a lunch meal at a more tourist restaurant can cost between USD10 to USD15. Dinner - At dinner time, your leader will normally recommend restaurants where you can safely try the local specialties of the region. Expect meals to cost between USD12 to USD25 for a main. These are indicative prices only. If you are in a tight budget, are happy to eat just local food and are not afraid of an upset tummy every now and then, you can eat cheaper than this. If you want to try just the finest food at the finest restaurants, then you can expect meals to cost as much as in western countries. DEPARTURE TAX: In most countries you must pay an airport departure tax. Nowadays, these departure taxes are added into the cost of your airline tickets and paid for at the time of purchase. Unless mentioned below, no airport departure tax has to be paid during this trip. Ecuador & Hotel based Galapagos Tipping: Gratuities aren’t compulsory on your trip, but they can make a big difference to locals employed in the tourism industry. We suggest carrying small notes of local currency around as you go. It’ll make tipping easier. Usually around USD5 – USD10 a day to cover tips is fine. On our Ecuador mainland trips your leader might raise the idea of a group tip kitty. Each traveller contributes an equal amount to the pool, and your leader can pay the tips as you go. Please keep in mind that prices in the Galapagos Islands are more expensive than other areas in South America. We have adjusted the budget for non-included meals accordingly. YOUR LEADER You may also consider tipping your leader for outstanding service throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however as a guideline US$3-6 per person (in a currency relevant for your destination), per day can be used. Of course you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length and involvement of your leader on your trip.

What to take

What you need to bring will vary according to the countries you are visiting, the time of year you are travelling, and your personal preferences. Generally speaking, we recommend that you pack as lightly as possible and make sure that you are able to carry your luggage and walk with it for short distances. Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, duffle bag or medium to small suitcases with wheels. We recommend bags with carry straps to make handling easier when embarking and disembarking speed boats on this trip. You must bring your passport with you to the Galapagos to present upon arrival and when you return to the mainland. Photocopies of your passport will not be accepted. The weather in the Galapagos is quite temperate all year round. Most days, you will be doing active outdoor or water-based activities. We recommend lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and moisture-wicking/quick-dry synthetics designed for hot weather. Avoid materials that are heavy, non-breathable, and retain heat or moisture, such as nylon, polyester, and denim. You will have opportunities to do laundry during your trip. ESSENTIALS: - A smaller backpack to take with you on excursions. - Lightweight long shirts and pants for protection against the sun and insects. - Comfortable clothing for hot weather; shorts, t-shirts, activewear. - Closed-toed comfortable walking shoes to protect your feet in wilderness areas. - Water shoes or sandals suitable for beach/water activities. - Light waterproof/windproof jacket for rain and wind. - Fleece or jumper/sweater for cooler mornings/evenings. - Sunscreen - biodegradable, reef-safe, and waterproof if available. - Lip balm to combat the effects of windburn. - Sun protection – sunglasses and securable sunhat. - Swimming costume and rash guard. - Biodegradable shampoo, conditioner, soap, moisturizer, etc. - Toiletries- toothbrush, toothpaste, razor, nail clippers, etc. - Reusable water bottle - Insect repellent RECOMMENDED: - Personal medical kit. Your guide will carry a large kit, but we recommend you carry items such as mild painkillers, electrolytes, anti-diarrhea, antibacterial gel, wet wipes, after-sun, bandaids/plasters, etc. - Pegs to hang your swimming costume and wet clothes. - Trail shoes or hiking boots for the volcano hike(s). - Spare batteries or power bank - Binoculars - Dry bag - Camera OPTIONAL: - Sarong or pareo – beach towels are provided by the hotels. - Book, journal, music, podcasts, etc. - Underwater camera or case. - Ear plugs PERSONAL MEDICATION Please ensure you travel with all required medications that you may need while in the Galapagos. If you are prone to motion sickness, you might want to pack some preventative medication. You are travelling to quite a remote destination, and even though there are settlements throughout the islands, they may not stock your required medication. POWER Electricity in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands is 110 - 120V and requires US plugs, so you may need to take an adapter.

Climate and seasonal

Being located on the equator, Ecuador is a year round destination. In Quito temperatures do not fluctuate that much throughout the year with average temperatures around 19°C to 24°C during the day with lows of 9-10°C in the evening. There are two 'seasons', the wet and dry. The dry season runs from June to September and the wet season is from October through to May. The surprisingly thing with Quito is its altitude and proximity to the equator means that the sun has a little more kick to it so it can feel like it's warmer than it actually is. Even on cooler days, if the sun comes out make sure you use sunscreen. The Galapagos weather is pretty reasonable all year round, so it is never freezing cold but it can get very hot [February-May being the hottest months]. The seasons are not exactly fixed and weather conditions are changeable around the ends of the seasons. Note that the "wet" season is still drier than many places in the world. Daily temperatures range from 22°C to 25°C with overnight temperatures dropping to around 10°C. Up in the highlands [which you will cross on your way from Baltra to Puerto Ayora] it is cooler and the garúa mist hangs about as a kind of permanent dampness, and sometimes descends to the coast as well. The waters surrounding the Galapagos are influenced by the Humboldt Current. Water temperatures sit around 20°C to 24°C from January through to May and drop to 18°C to 20°C from June through to October. Although you may be required to wear a wetsuit at this time of year the same currents that bring the cooler water temperatures also bring nutrients which means wildlife are very active at this time of year. SEA SICKNESS- GALAPAGOS: Please note that from June to August the water is rougher than usual. Consequently travel times will be longer than usual. If you suffer from seasickness you may want to reconsider travelling during this period.

A couple of rules

Intrepid won't tolerate any kind of violence, harassment (whether physical, verbal or sexual), or disrespect toward fellow travellers, our teams or local communities. To ensure the wellbeing of everyone on the trip, decisions made by your group leader are final. Romantic relationships between travellers and group leader or local representative are not permitted while on trip. Any behaviour that prevents your leader from continuing the itinerary as planned, breaks local laws or opposes any of these guidelines may result in Intrepid denying your booking or removing you from the trip. If something concerns you during your travels, please speak to your group leader immediately. Alternatively, you can contact us on the emergency contact number detailed in the Problems and Emergency Contact Information section of this Essential Trip Information. Strict rules apply in the Galapagos Islands aimed at protecting and preserving its unique biodiversity. Intrepid strongly agrees and supports these rules which range from times of the day that a destination can be visited to the distance kept between people and wildlife – all these rules will be explained in more detailed by your crew on the ground. Not adhering to these rules can lead to hefty fines for travellers and can result on Intrepid losing the license to operate in the Galapagos Islands – these rules must be adhered to by all, without exception. For more information, please follow this link: http://www.galapagos.org/travel/travel/park-rules/

Feedback

Can’t stop thinking about your adventure? Tell us all about it! We read each piece of feedback carefully and use it to make improvements for travellers like you. Share your experience with us at: http://www.intrepidtravel.com/feedback/

Emergency contact

While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip, it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or local representative straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip. We recognise that there may be times when your group leader or local representative may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction - if this is the case, please ask the group leader or local representative to speak to their direct manager. You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback, which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip. Please do be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is completed, so informing us while still travelling will give us the opportunity to resolve the issue in real-time. For general contact details please use the following page: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/contact-us In case of a genuine crisis or emergency, you can reach our local office on the numbers below: Intrepid’s Local Operator Ecuador: +593 9 94014877

Responsible travel

Our Responsible Travel Policy outlines our commitment to preserving the environment, supporting local communities, protecting the vulnerable, and giving back to the places we travel. All our trip group leaders or local representatives, suppliers, and staff are trained on these principles and are core to us delivering sustainable, experience-rich travel. Explore the different parts of our Responsible Travel Policy by visiting: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/responsible-travel Love wildlife? Us too. We believe nature should be protected, respected and never exploited for our entertainment. That’s why we design all of our wildlife trips and experiences to meet the standards set out in our animal welfare guidelines (https://www.intrepidtravel.com/en/animal-welfare), created in collaboration with World Animal Protection. This ensures that the unforgettable animal encounters our travellers rave about are conducted responsibly, with the utmost respect for all creatures. What does that mean for you? Well, we never ride, feed or handle wild animals for a start. Take a closer look at our animal welfare policy (https://www.intrepidtravel.com/sites/intrepid/files/Intrepid_Travel_Animal_Welfare_Policy.pdf) to learn more about how we champion responsible, cruelty-free experiences on our trips, and see how you can help make a difference when you travel with our animal-friendly travel tips (https://www.intrepidtravel.com/en/how-be-better-traveller-wildlife).

The Intrepid Foundation

Our non-profit, The Intrepid Foundation, gives travellers more opportunities to make a positive impact in the places they visit. We have over 50 Intrepid Foundation partners across the globe addressing four key focus areas: protecting the environment, taking a stand for wildlife, addressing inequality and empowering communities. Intrepid matches all post-trip donations dollar for dollar and takes care of the admin fees – this doubles your impact and ensures every cent goes to our partners on the ground. Visit our website for more info: http://www.theintrepidfoundation.org/ This trip supports The Galapagos Conservancy, who help protect the unique biodiversity of the Galapagos. Donations support their Galápagos Conservancy Women in Sustainable Entrepreneurship (WISE) program, providing critical capital for sustainability initiatives and building the entrepreneurial capacity of Galápagos women. Intrepid will double your impact by dollar-matching post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation. To find out more or make a donation, visit: www.theintrepidfoundation.org/t/galapagos-conservancy

Accommodation notes

The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation. Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is compulsory on all our trips for those travelling internationally. We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. If you are travelling within your home country or region please confirm before travel that you are entitled to access the public medical system easily should an accident occur. We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international trips, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance and the insurance company's 24-hour emergency contact number has been sighted by your group leader or local representative. If you have credit card insurance your group leader or local representative will require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number, and emergency contact number rather than the bank's name and your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details prior to arriving in-country. For travellers who reside within the European Union, Switzerland or USA the requirement to purchase travel insurance cannot be compulsory. However the purchase of travel insurance is still highly recommended, and travellers from these regions who decline travel insurance when travelling outside of their home region must sign a Travel Insurance Waiver Form at the Group Meeting, recognizing personal responsibility for emergency medical and repatriation costs should they arise. For assistance with travel insurance or other services, please visit the link below: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/booking-resources/our-services The Galapagos Islands are located approximately 1,000 km off the coast of mainland Ecuador. While the populated islands of Santa Cruz and San Cristobal have medical facilities, they are limited to in both the procedures they can perform and medical supplies. Please ensure your travel insurance covers medical evacuation by air, repatriation to your home country, pre-existing medical conditions, and, if required, supplies flown to the Galapagos from the mainland. The Ecuadorian government has declared that travel insurance is compulsory for all travellers entering Ecuador. Proof of insurance may be requested at upon entering the country by immigration officials.

Your fellow travellers

As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and likely a range of age groups too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part. Due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your trip prior to departure. SOLO TRAVELLERS On our trips, rooming is organised on a twin-share basis. We pair up solo travellers with another traveller of the same gender, as per the gender marker on each of their passports. We also offer an optional single supplement on most trips for travellers who prefer to have their own room. This only applies to accommodation during the tour. Pre-trip and post-trip accommodation booked through us will always be on a single-room basis. On a small selection of trips some accommodation will be open-gender and multishare, such as a felucca in Egypt or an overnight train in Vietnam. Please review the Accommodation section of the Essential Trip Information for details about your trip. LGBTQIA+ TRAVELLERS We strive to create a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. If your gender identity differs from what is indicated on your passport, please contact us so that we can discuss rooming options with you.

Itinerary disclaimer

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk.

Accommodation

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