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Galapagos Family Travel with Galapagos Unbound takes your family on a vacation you will remember forever. A perfect family adventure for those with 12 people or less, our Galapagos Islands Family Vacations are unique in that they specifically cater to families. For 30 years, Galapagos Unbound has specialized in family adventure vacations and our award winning Galapagos Unbound tour has been designed to fit what you are looking for in a family vacation to the Galapagos Islands.

The Galapagos Islands are one of a few places on earth that allow for such intimate contact with a dazzling array of wildlife. Most Galapagos Islands family vacations are cruise-based and carry between 20-100 people. Galapagos Unbound's journey, the only one of its kind, allows a small group of families (12 people) to visit sites that are not on the main tourist routes. Your family will leave the crowds of visitors and well-worn paths behind to enjoy the peace of walking, snorkeling and paddling your way through this island paradise.

Galapagos Unbound and parent company ROW Adventure's Galapagos Unbound trip was featured in the New York Times and featured as a "Tour of a Lifetime" from National Geographic Traveler magazine. You will find the article entitled "Galapagos Unbound" by Tim Neville here.

So what makes the Galapagos Family Travel Adventure different?

Our award-winning Galapagos Unbound Tour, is the perfect adventure for families! We can also match your families ages with other families and create an ideal Galapagos Family vacation! Plus, we have hand-picked guides who are specifically trained in working with little ones.

These trips are priced based on the number of guests per trip.

Images & Videos

Young girl takes a picture of an iguana on the walking path at the Charles Darwin Station in the Galapagos Islands
Son and daughter sit on their moms lap as they look to an iguana to their right on the rocks
Back shot of a couple with matching sun hats and backpacks over looking a volcano from an overlook while hiking in the Galapagos Islands
Underwater shot of a person wearing a blue snorkel looking up close as a sea turtle
A girl in a sun hat sitting on a rock looking at a blue footed booby bird perched on a rock near her that is out of focus
Up close shot of a Giant Galapagos Land Tortoise looking at the camera
Underwater shot looking up at a bunch of people snorkeling at the surface of the water surrounded by small fish
Mom holding her daughter on her lap both wearing sunglasses on the beach with the water behind them in the Galapagos Islands
A girl walking across a slack-line while holding a mans hand for stability on a busy beach in the Galapagos
A family of mom, dad, and two daughter smiling in front of the lush forests of the Galapagos
A girl in a pink shirt and sun hat in clear shallow ocean water looking at a sea lion looking right at her right next to her
A group of people looking at a giant Galapagos land tortoise in the grass
Large rock formation in the middle of the ocean off the coast of the Galapagos Islands
Two kids playing with their mom in the water while on vacation in the Galapagos
Young girl takes a picture of an iguana on the walking path at the Charles Darwin Station in the Galapagos Islands
Son and daughter sit on their moms lap as they look to an iguana to their right on the rocks
Back shot of a couple with matching sun hats and backpacks over looking a volcano from an overlook while hiking in the Galapagos Islands
Underwater shot of a person wearing a blue snorkel looking up close as a sea turtle
A girl in a sun hat sitting on a rock looking at a blue footed booby bird perched on a rock near her that is out of focus
Up close shot of a Giant Galapagos Land Tortoise looking at the camera
Underwater shot looking up at a bunch of people snorkeling at the surface of the water surrounded by small fish
Mom holding her daughter on her lap both wearing sunglasses on the beach with the water behind them in the Galapagos Islands
A girl walking across a slack-line while holding a mans hand for stability on a busy beach in the Galapagos
A family of mom, dad, and two daughter smiling in front of the lush forests of the Galapagos
A girl in a pink shirt and sun hat in clear shallow ocean water looking at a sea lion looking right at her right next to her
A group of people looking at a giant Galapagos land tortoise in the grass
Large rock formation in the middle of the ocean off the coast of the Galapagos Islands
Two kids playing with their mom in the water while on vacation in the Galapagos

Itinerary

Collapse all days

Day 1

Arrive in Quito

Fly into Quito and begin your Galapagos Unbound adventure. Upon arrival, meet with the hotel’s representative and take their private shuttle to your hotel for the evening. 

 

ACCOMMODATION : Casa Ilayaku

Day 2

Quito City Tour

After breakfast, venture out to explore Quito. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Quito offers historic sites such as colonial temples and the monasteries of Santo Domingo and San Francisco. Visit the St. Augustine Convent, the Independence Plaza neighbored by the Jesuit Church of La Compañía, the Municipal Building, the Presidential Palace and the Archbishop’s Palace. Next, we continue our exploration with a visit to the Church of San Francisco, an incredible remnant of the New World known for its elaborate interior. 

We take a break with some lunch, after which we stop by the Galapagos Unbound headquarters in Ecuador. Tempt your tastebuds with some of Ecuador’s rich chocolate before gathering for a trip briefing and kayaking orientation. Return to your hotel by mid-afternoon and relax before dinner.

 

ACCOMMODATION : Casa Ilayaku
MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3

Arrive San Cristóbal, Kayak Puerto Baquerizo Moreno to Manglecito Beach

Depart mainland Ecuador for the Galapagos Islands with a flight from Quito to San Cristóbal. Our Galapagos National Park’s Naturalist Guide greets us upon arrival. Take in San Cristóbal’s eroded volcanic peaks and verdant vegetation as you travel to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, the provincial capital. Once there, relax with lunch at a local restaurant before getting fitted for your personal snorkel gear which will allow you to experience the Galapagos' marine world in comfort. 

This afternoon, settle in for your first kayaking expedition of the trip with a 6-mile paddle from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno to Manglecito Beach. The paddle takes you past Lobos Island, where you can spot marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies and brown pelicans perched on the rocky coast. You may even be able to spot passing sea turtles bopping their heads out of water to take a breath or even mating.  

You arrive to a beach camp welcome from your camp guides, settle in to your tent then either choose to relax and enjoy the view or indulge in more wildlife spotting.

This evening, enjoy camping on a secluded beach and relish the freshly prepared food, tranquil views and the occasional visit by the local wildlife before bed. 

 

ACCOMMODATION : Exclusive Beach Camp
MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4

Kayak Manglecito Beach to Puerto Grand, Snorkel at Kicker Rock

After waking up to the sounds of waves and wildlife, set off on a morning kayak expedition along the coast to Puerto Grande Beach. Upon arrival, settle in and stretch your legs before hopping in a boat for a ride to Kicker Rock, or León Dormido. Look out for dolphins as we travel, and once there set out for an unparalleled snorkeling experience. Sea turtles, Galapagos and white-tipped reef sharks and eagle rays may be enjoying the narrow channel’s calm waters, and you can expect to see light flicking off hundreds of fish and sea stars clinging to the rocks.

Return to Manglecito Beach by late afternoon and relax with a beverage and a colorful sunset unobscured against the skyline. 

*Note: The order of the activities can vary depending on National Park schedules.

*Note: Boat ride to Kicker Rock on Shared Services in groups from 4 to 7 people

ACCOMMODATION : Exclusive Beach Camp
MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5

Kayak Isabela Island 

Early wake up before traveling back to town by boat, no time for breakfast but we will ahve coffee and snacks on the boat. There, catch a flight to Isabela Island—the archipelago’s largest island formed from 6 merged shield volcanoes. Amongst the calderas and lush wetlands, more wild tortoises can be found here than on all the other islands combined, and rare endemic wildlife can be spotted. Despite its soaring volcanic views and impressive wildlife initiatives, few Galapagos cruises make it to Isabela—making this a unique adventure. 

Our morning travels take us to Puerto Villamil, where we check in at our evening’s accommodations and enjoy some local cuisine at lunch. Up next, we hop in our kayaks and paddle around Isabela's beautiful bay and beachfront. Wildlife is abundant, especially birdlife, and this is probably our best chance to see the tiny Galapagos penguin as they love to hang out and nest on the rocks here. Bring your snorkel gear along as you will have plenty opportunity to jump in and explore beneath the water. The pure white sand on the sea floor makes this a snorkel paradise. 

Note - the checked baggage allowance for these small planes is 25lbs per person - you may have a carry on like a backpack.  If you are over the limit the airline will charge $2 per lb over. 

ACCOMMODATION : Hotel Albermarle or similar
MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch

Day 6

Hike Sierra Negra 

Enjoy a fresh breakfast before heading out into Isabela’s highlands for a new view of the Galapagos Islands’ diverse terrain. Our travels take us to the base of Sierra Negra—an active volcano whose last eruption in 2005 left it coated with a remarkable new layer of lava. Hike 6-10 miles to the caldera, the second largest in the world, and enjoy incredible views while looking out for flycatchers, finches and the elusive Galapagos hawk. 

Once we reach the caldera’s rim, relax and take in the sweeping views of Isabela laying before you. Then, our hike continues to Volcan Chico, where a lunar landscape of fumaroles and rippling snakes of black lava await you. From the highest points, you can see Isabela’s other volcanoes and the surrounding islands. 

After our hike through Isabela’s heights, return to back to town. Enjoy a stroll along the beach, cool down with a swim or explore more of Puerto Villamil before rejoining for dinner. Delicious BBQ is served outside on the beachfront, giving you an excellent opportunity to relax under a Galapagos sunset warmed by a bonfire. 

ACCOMMODATION : Hotel Albermarle or similar
MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7

Snorkel Los Tuneles, Visit Tortoise Breeding Center, Explore Wetlands

Take a morning boat ride to Los Tuneles, an impressive and unique lava formation comprised of caves and arches dipping in and out of the water. Explore the shoreline and slip on a snorkel mask to explore Los Tuneles’ underwater labyrinth and the Galapagos wildlife that enjoy playing here. From here, we then move to neighboring El Finado, a becalmed inlet once used by local fisherman for respite from their ocean journeys.

At El Finado, we anchor our boat and once again hop into the water to snorkel amongst the reefs, submerged caves and marine life wonderland. A favorite haunt of white-tipped reef shark, vibrant tropical fish and stingrays, El Finado offers plenty to see. Further into the lush mangroves, you can discover wrasses, parrotfish and hogfishes navigating alongside you in this unique habitat.  

After this morning’s snorkel excursions we visit the Tortoise Breeding Center, an initiative by the Galapagos National Park to conserve the many and varied species of these gentle giants. See tortoises at every stage of development and learn about the initiative's work to preserve the species before they are returned to their native habitats. 

We return to the hotel via the wetlands, where flamingos add a splash of color to the brackish waters of the tidal lagoons that are home to them as well as four species of mangrove and numerous migratory birds.

This evening, stroll along the white sandy beach and enjoy a leisurely night independently exploring the town. 

*Note Boat ride to Los Tuneles in Shared Services in groups from 4 to 7 people

ACCOMMODATION : Hotel Albermarle or similar
MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8

Explore & Kayak Santa Cruz Highlands 

This morning, we continue our journey along the Galapagos archipelago with a boat ride to Santa Cruz Island. Sitting in the middle of the Galapagos Islands, Santa Cruz also serves as the islands’ social and scientific hub as the Darwin Research Station, the National Park Headquarters and Puerto Ayora—the Galapagos Islands’ largest settlement—all can be found here. Santa Cruz also boasts of a trans-island road, providing rare views of the Galapagos Islands’ lush interior and lofty heights. 

Our day’s activities take us on Santa Cruz’s highway into the highlands. Here, we stop to visit wild Galapagos giant tortoises. These centenarian, massive creatures can weigh between 200-500 pounds. Walk alongside them as they lumber through mud puddles or munch on a snack and discover why they are one of the Galapagos’ most beloved creatures. After, stop by the Santa Cruz lava tunnels—hollow twists that snake through the earth’s crust once formed by hot lava coursing toward the ocean. Step into these tubes and get a unique view at the island’s geologic history. 

This afternoon, enjoy a leisurely paddle in a calm shallow lagoon where we spend a couple of hours enjoying the tranquility and watching for rays, mullet and sharks along the rocky coastline.

*Note: Boat ride from Isabela to Santa Cruz on Shared Services in groups from 4 to 7 people.
The kayak activity could vary depending on tides

ACCOMMODATION : Angermeyer Waterfront Inn or similar
MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9

Visit the “Trapiche” or Sugar Mill – Visit Garrapatero and Kayak

Activities: Visit the Sugar Mill, relax and kayak on the beach.
Wildlife: Darwin’s finches, Vermilion flycatcher, Saclesia and Miconia forest, frigate birds, manta rays, sea turtles.

After breakfast, we will take a scenic drive towards El Garrapatero. We will pass through Bellavista town, and have the chance to visit a farm that still processes sugar the old fashioned way. The local property owners produce sugar cane and Galapagos coffee, which they then process both in a very traditional manner. One of the family members, who will act as our guide and informant will demonstrate the farming process of coffee and sugar cane and feature the extraction of the sugar cane juice. We will learn of the distillation process until the final product of “Galapagos Moonshine”, and even more exciting, a look and taste of the fruit of the coffee plant in its natural state. Afterwards, we will continue to the beach of El Garrapatero where we will have the chance to relax on the beach, swim on the ocean or kayak to explore the nearby mangroves. In the evening, at to top of our day, we will have a very special farewell dinner. We are invited by a local angler and his family for a delicious dinner with traditional ingredients and the most enjoyable conversation where we can exchange stories and most importantly, have the opportunity to fully immerse in a new culture.

 

ACCOMMODATION : Angermeyer Waterfront Inn or similar
MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10

Return to Mainland Ecuador

Say goodbye to the Galapagos Islands as you travel to Baltra, where you might catch glimpse of the air base used by the US Navy in WWII. Fly back to Quito, where you may catch your international flight home or continue your Ecuadorian adventure with one of our extension tours. 

MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast

Dates & Rates

Supplementary Information

The price above is our Lowest Tier Price:
 
4 - 7 Guests - $5800 per person
8 - 12 Guests - $5400 per person
 
December Supplement = $150
Single Supplement = $750
 
Prices are based on double occupancy.  If desired, we will strive to pair you up with another single guest to elimate the single supplement fee however, please note that this is not always possible.
 
Please note that an additional amount of $1020 should be allowed for internal flights and Park Tariffs.  From August 1, 2024 the National Park have increased the Park Fee to $200 for a total of $1120.
 
Tiered Pricing Explained
 
Our trips are budgeted for full or near full sign-ups which enables us to offer trips at the lowest possible price. Because of numerous fixed costs, it is more expensive to operate a trip for a small group. Therefore, on some of our trips, in order to avoid having to cancel a trip, we have a “tier-pricing” system to avoid canceling a trip with a low number of sign ups. We have found that most people also prefer this alternative to having a trip cancelled. Thus, you will note on our trip prices there may be different price for 6-8 people versus 9-10, versus 11-12, etc...

We may initially invoice you at the higher tier price, and refund the difference depending on the final group size. Trip costs quoted are based on foreign exchange rates current at the time of this printing. We reserve the right to raise the trip fee if there are exceptional cost increases beyond our control.

Included: 

  • Full service of our Adventure Consultants

  • Hand-crafted itineraries

  • Professional Galapagos Naturalist Guide

  • Experienced English-speaking guide(s)

  • Double accommodation in hotels and for camping

  • Specialized activity guides based on activity of trip (kayaking, biking, hiking, etc.)

  • All necessary kayaking, camping and snorkeling equipment

  • All transportation as noted on the itinerary

  • All meals and drinks as noted on the itinerary

  • Private pre-tour orientation meeting

Not Included

  • International flights to Ecuador 

  • Ecuador to Galapagos round trip flights (*Free Ecuador to Galapagos flights may be offered on select dates)

  • Internal island transfers

  • $120 National Park Fee and Immigration Tax. $220 from August 1, 2024

  • Gratuities

  • Items of a personal nature

  • Alcoholic beverages

  • Travel insurance of any type

  • Additional hotel nights pre or post tour

  • Cost of hospitalization or evacuation if necessary

These are the dates and rate for this particular award-winning itinerary. If your family is looking for more flexible dates and prices, please see our other Galapagos Islands Vacations.

Please note Christmas Trips have a $150 supplement

 

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FAQ & More

When is the best time for my family to visit the Galapagos Islands?

Galapagos Weather Guide - Month to Month

Whenever your schedule allows! Because it’s on the equator, air temperatures don’t change a lot. However water temperature does fluctuate as much as ten degrees during the year. The cooler Humboldt Current comes up from Antarctica from May to September/October and the sea is cooler and tends to be rougher at this time of year. Cooler water temperatures mean you generally see more sea life because there is more food for the animals that depend on the planktons and other sea nourishment. From November to April, the cooler Panama Current flows from the north and brings warmer water. The sea tends to be calmer at this time of year. If you’re going on our land-based tour then rough water is less of a concern. If you’re doing a cruise, and you are prone to seasickness, you might want to consider coming in the November to April time frame.

Where are the Galapagos Island located?

The Galapagos Islands (or Archipelago de Colon) are a Province of Ecuador located about 500 miles (800 kilometers) west of the Ecuadorian coast and are located directly on the equator.

What is the weather like?

Because the Galapagos Islands are on the equator, it’s warm most of the year. The warmest season is usually January to April and average temperatures range from a low of 70F/22C to around of 84F/31C. This is also the “wet season” and there may be afternoon thundershowers. During a severe El Nino year, it’s more likely to rain at any time of day. April to December is considered the “dry season” and is cooler, with average temperatures ranging from around 68F/19C to 82F/27C. At this time of year it is not uncommon to have the "garua" (misty rain) early in the morning and in the highlands of Santa Cruz and San Cristobal. Our experience is that the time of year doesn’t make a lot of difference in terms of the amount of rain as there isn’t enough to impact your trip too much.

What is the best way to get to the Galapagos Islands?

From the U.S. and Canada there are daily flights via Houston, Los Angeles, Atlanta, New York and Miami, to both Quito and Guayaquil, Ecuador. If you are short on time flying directly to and from Guayaquil may save you time as our Galapagos Unbound trip begins in Guayaquil.

Do you arrange international air to Ecuador?

We do not arrange international air travel but we do have a great air travel specialist we refer you to if you’d like.

Will we have to exchange any money before we travel to Ecuador or once in the country?

Ecuador uses the US dollar which was adopted as the official currency in 2000. Be sure to bring cash bills in good condition because bills with markings or tears won’t be accepted. There are also ATM machines in the larger towns. It’s a good idea to alert your bank that you’ll be traveling to Ecuador so they don’t stop the transactions.

Are you able to arrange extensions to our Galapagos tour?

We have been running trips in Ecuador since 1992 and know the country well. We have plenty of ideas for extending your trip whether it be to the Amazon, the Cloud Forest, the highlands in the north or south, or whatever might be your special interest. We can also arrange extensions to Peru and Machu Picchu.

How far in advance should I book?

There are a lot of arrangements to be made for a custom trip like our Galapagos Unbound active adventure. It’s very helpful with our planning if you book four to 12 months in advance. However, if you can’t plan that far ahead, then it’s usually not a problem to book up to about two months in advance. If you find yourself looking for last-minute space just call us and check!

What do I need to bring to snorkel and what is the experience like?

The Galapagos is surely one of the best places in the world to snorkel. The flourishing ocean life is an ecological treasure, and one of the main draws to the archipelago. You will have multiple chances to snorkel, sometimes at multiple locations in a day. We do recommend you try snorkeling ahead of time for your trip to get the most out of your experience, if you have never done so. Wetsuits aren’t strictly necessary, but “shorty” wetsuits (knees to elbows) of about 2mm are recommended to keep out any chill. We have full snorkel gear available to use including wetsuits.

What equipment or gear do I need to bring?

We provide all of the equipment, while you need to simply bring your clothing and personal gear. We also provide wetsuits and snorkeling gear for your convenience, or your may bring your own. We send a complete list with items to bring such as paddling gloves, a water bottle, flash light, etc. We suggest traveling “light” for this adventure. 

Is it possible to go scuba diving in the Galapagos?

There are one or two opportunities on our trip to arrange for a separate scuba diving experience at an extra cost. Contact us for details.

Will the tour guides speak English?

Yes. Spanish is the official language of Ecuador and the Galapagos but all tour guides are bilingual and speak english.

Will my credit card work in Ecuador?

Yes, most major credit and debit cards are accepted in Ecuador. There are plenty of ATM’s to use if you prefer to purchase things with cash as well.

Custom or Private

You love this itinerary but want to change it a bit to make it perfect for you?  Or, are you wanting to simply make it private?  Either way, we can do it!

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