Trip Highlights
*Please note that the following information is meant to provide a general overview of your tour. The specifics of your trip will be contained in a pre-trip letter you will receive prior to your confirmed departure.*
TRIP LENGTH: 6 Days
MINIMUM AGE: 7 years
NEAREST AIRPORT: Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO), Baltra Airport (GPS)
Sample Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Santa Cruz – Visit Tortoises in the Highlands & Explore Puerto Ayora
This morning, you’ll fly to Baltra, a small island off the coast of Santa Cruz that is home to the airport. Your guide will be waiting to greet you, and your adventure will begin right away!
As you make your way to Puerto Ayora, the capital of Santa Cruz, your first activity is a visit to a private giant tortoise reserve in the highlands. Here, you’ll observe these massive creatures in their natural habitat—cooling off in watering holes or leisurely grazing. You’ll also have the chance to explore nearby lava tunnels, gaining a deeper appreciation of the natural forces that shaped these islands.
After checking in at your accommodations, you’ll head out to explore town. Santa Cruz is the most populated of all the Galápagos Islands, and its bustling port city is considered the tourism hub of the archipelago.
Tonight, your guide will take you to Calle de los Kioskos (Kiosks Street)—a lively backstreet that closes to traffic each evening as small restaurants set up tables and chairs for open-air dining. If you’re looking for where the locals eat, this is the place to be!
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: Visit Tortuga Bay – Optional Charles Darwin Research Station – Public Boat to Isabela
This morning, we’ll take a short walk leading to Tortuga Bay, a stunning white-sand beach accessible only by foot. Here, you’ll have options—swim, sunbathe, or try bodysurfing in the gentle waves.
A leisurely 45-minute walk leads to the beach, where you may spot lava lizards and various bird species in the surrounding trees. The first beach you reach offers great surf, while further along, Tortuga Bay is a calm, mangrove-sheltered lagoon perfect for swimming. Keep an eye out for friendly baby sharks, nesting blue-footed boobies, and marine iguanas basking on the shore.
After returning to town, an optional visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station is available. Here, you’ll learn about conservation efforts to repopulate the islands with endangered land iguanas and several species of giant tortoises. From egg collection to their eventual release into the wild, you’ll witness how these tortoises are raised and prepared for survival.
After lunch, we’ll take a public speedboat to Isabela Island, the largest island in the Galápagos archipelago. After checking in, we’ll take a stroll through Puerto Villamil, a charming town with a long stretch of white-sand beach—the perfect place to toast to your first Isabela sunset, arguably the most beautiful in the Galápagos.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Note: Surfing & Boogie Boarding – Sometimes it’s possible to surf or boogie board at Tortuga Bay. Let your guide know in advance if you’re interested.
Day 3: Hike Sierra Negra & Volcán Chico – Optional Kayak
Lace up your hiking boots—we’re heading up a volcano!
Sierra Negra is one of the most active volcanoes in the Galápagos, last erupting in October 2005. As we ascend toward the caldera rim, keep an eye out for highland bird species such as the bright Vermilion Flycatcher and the elusive short-eared owl. Once at the rim, you’ll be rewarded with an expansive 9-km-wide view of one of the largest volcanic craters in the world.
Continuing along the rim, we’ll make our way to Volcán Chico, where volcanic vents, colorful mineral deposits, and lava flows create an otherworldly landscape. As we traverse hardened lava fields and small lava tunnels, we’ll reach a scenic lookout offering breathtaking views of northern Isabela.
By early afternoon, we’ll return to town. You can take it easy or opt for an optional kayak excursion around Puerto Villamil’s sheltered bay. Galápagos penguins, sea turtles, and rays frequent these waters, while blue-footed boobies, frigate birds, and pelicans perch along the mangrove-lined shores.
Alternatively, you can rent a bike and ride to the Wall of Tears, a historic landmark.
Return to town in time for a sunset swim, followed by an independent dinner. Your guide will be happy to recommend local restaurants.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 4: Visit the Giant Tortoise Breeding Center – Fly to San Cristóbal – Visit La Loberia
After breakfast, we’ll take a leisurely walk through a coastal lagoon, where we might spot pink flamingos. This mangrove-lined path leads to Isabela’s Giant Tortoise Breeding Center, home to nearly 1,000 tortoises in various stages of development, preparing for life in the wild.
In the afternoon, we’ll take a short flight to San Cristóbal, the oldest and easternmost island in the archipelago. After lunch, we’ll head to La Loberia, a sea lion hangout where you’ll watch these playful creatures sunbathe, nap, and interact. If you’re up for it, take a swim alongside them!
On the way back to town, your guide will recommend local dining options.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 5: Snorkel at Kicker Rock – Optional Bike Ride
Today, we take to the water to explore the underwater world of the Galápagos.
We’ll start by cruising along the coast, spotting shorebirds such as great frigatebirds and blue-footed boobies. Then, we’ll stop for an introductory snorkel, searching for damselfish, pufferfish, and, hopefully, playful sea lion pups.
Next, we’ll continue to Kicker Rock (León Dormido)—a towering 143-meter-high tuff cone. Snorkeling through its deep channel, we’ll search for sea turtles, spotted eagle rays, chocolate chip starfish, and, with luck, a Galápagos shark or two. (Don’t worry—they’re harmless to humans!)
After lunch on board, we’ll relax at a secluded beach, accessible only by boat. Swim in turquoise waters or take photos with Kicker Rock in the background.
Returning to town in the late afternoon, you’ll have time to explore or enjoy a sunset drink by the waterfront.
Tonight, we’ll gather for a farewell dinner at one of our favorite open-air restaurants.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Optional Visit to Interpretation Center & Tijeretas – Fly to Quito
On your final morning, you’ll have a choice:
Shop for souvenirs
Take a last swim at the beach
Visit the Interpretation Center, where you’ll learn about the history of the Galápagos, Charles Darwin’s discoveries, and conservation efforts
Hike to Tijeretas, a scenic lookout with panoramic views of Kicker Rock
This afternoon, you’ll fly back to mainland Ecuador. If you’re continuing your adventure, consider booking an excursion to explore more of this incredible country.
Safe travels!
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel Arrangements
Travel to Quito
Most travelers reach Quito by connecting through major U.S. cities that offer direct flights to Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO). Airlines frequently operate routes from cities such as Miami, Houston, Atlanta, and New York. Depending on your departure location, you may need to make a connection before reaching Quito.
Travel to the Galápagos Islands
To reach the Galápagos, you will first fly to Quito (UIO), where you will connect to a domestic flight to Baltra Airport (GPS) on Santa Cruz Island. This is where your adventure officially begins on Day One. Flights to the Galápagos operate in the morning, so we recommend arriving in Quito at least one day in advance to ensure a smooth connection.
Weather
Weather in the Galápagos Islands
The Galápagos Islands have a unique climate influenced by ocean currents, creating two main seasons.
The warm and wet season runs from December to May, with temperatures ranging from 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C). Expect sunny days with occasional brief showers. The ocean is warmer and calmer, making it an excellent time for snorkeling and swimming.
The cool and dry season runs from June to November, with temperatures ranging from 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Skies are often overcast, and the ocean is cooler and rougher due to the Humboldt Current. This season brings nutrient-rich waters, attracting diverse marine life, making it a great time for wildlife viewing.
Regardless of the season, weather can be unpredictable. Light layers, sun protection, and a rain jacket are recommended year-round.
Getting Ready
Physical Requirements
Adventure Unbound’s goal is to provide an enjoyable and safe experience. While most of our trips are suitable for beginners, some require a higher level of physical activity. It is important to understand the physical demands of your trip to ensure you are prepared.
This Galápagos adventure includes activities such as hiking, kayaking, swimming, snorkeling, and walking on uneven terrain. Participants should expect exposure to various weather conditions, including sun, wind, rain, and cooler temperatures in the highlands.
Adventure Unbound can accommodate individuals with physical limitations, disabilities, or medical conditions. If you require any additional assistance while on the trip, please speak with your Adventure Consultant. We also recommend consulting your doctor if you have any health conditions that may impact your ability to participate.
In general, all trip participants must be able to:
Walk unassisted on uneven, sandy, or rocky terrain, including trails, beaches, and lava fields.
Enter and exit small boats, kayaks, or rafts on their own or with assistance.
Swim or float in open water with the aid of a life vest if needed.
Remain calm and keep breathing under control in the event of a swim.
Participate in activities such as hiking, snorkeling, and kayaking when instructed by the guide.
Load and unload, with or without assistance, from boats and transportation used during the trip.
Some activities, such as the Sierra Negra Volcano hike, involve extended walking and elevation gain. Kayaking excursions require the ability to paddle for an extended period, though alternative options are available for those who prefer not to kayak. Snorkeling requires comfort in the water, but flotation devices can be provided.
Physical Preparedness
This adventure is designed for active travelers. While no prior experience is required for hiking, kayaking, or snorkeling, a reasonable level of fitness will enhance your enjoyment. We recommend:
Engaging in regular physical activity, such as walking or swimming, before the trip.
Practicing hiking on uneven surfaces to prepare for trails in the Galápagos.
Building endurance for activities that may last several hours.
If you are new to snorkeling, trying it in a pool or calm water before the trip can be helpful.
Our small group sizes ensure you receive personal attention from our guides while allowing you to experience the incredible landscapes and wildlife of the Galápagos up close. If you have any concerns about specific activities, we encourage you to reach out before your trip.
Packing List
Pack for The Galápagos
Essentials
- Insect Repellent – A small, travel-size bottle should be sufficient.
- Sunscreen – SPF 30+ UVA/UVB broad spectrum; waterproof and sweat-resistant.
- Water Bottle/Bladder – One 1-liter or two 500-milliliter bottles. A refillable bottle is essential to reduce waste. Water refills will be provided.
- Personal First-Aid Kit – Your guide will carry a first-aid kit, but it’s best to bring your own. At a minimum, pack waterproof band-aids, blister protection, antibiotic cream, and an astringent. If you’re prone to seasickness or unsure, bring seasickness tablets.
- Toiletries – Bring everything you may need, especially prescription medications. Supplies are limited in the Galápagos. Most hotels provide only a small bar of soap. If you prefer a washcloth or face towel, bring one.
Clothing
- Raincoat – A hooded, breathable rain jacket to keep you dry in hot and humid conditions.
- Sweater/Fleece – For cooler evenings, warming up after a swim/snorkel, or layering under a raincoat in the Andes.
- Long-Sleeve Shirts (1-2) – Lightweight SPF or sun-protective shirts are best for boat trips and walks.
- Long-Sleeve Rash Guard – Helps retain warmth in the water and adds sun protection while snorkeling.
- T-Shirts/Tank Tops (4-5) – Quick-drying, moisture-wicking shirts are recommended. SPF-rated options are ideal.
- Trousers (1-2) – Quick-dry hiking pants for the islands and a casual pair for cooler weather in Quito.
- Shorts (3-4) – Comfortable, breathable, and quick-drying.
- Essentials – Undergarments, socks, and sleepwear for the week.
- Swimsuits (2) – Suitable for active water activities such as kayaking and snorkeling.
- Shoes – Sturdy, comfortable shoes or boots for walking on lava rocks and potentially slippery or muddy trails. Hiking boots are recommended for those with weak ankles. Ensure all shoes are broken in before the trip.
- Sandals – Active sandals (e.g., Tevas or Keens) that stay on your feet and dry quickly.
Recommended Items
Sun Hat – A baseball cap, visor, or wide-brim hat to protect from the intense sun.
- Sunglasses – Any pair will do, but polarized lenses reduce glare from the water. A strap may be useful.
- Dry Bags – Keep electronics (camera, phone) dry and store wet or muddy items like swimsuits and boots. Roll-top dry bags or durable Ziplocs work well.
- Beach/Travel Towel – A small, quick-drying towel is handy after snorkeling.
- Earplugs – Useful for plane rides, noisy bunkmates, and the roosters on Isabela Island.
- Camera – Bring extra memory cards, batteries, and a charger. An underwater camera or housing is recommended for capturing marine life.
- USB Drive – A great way to share photos with your group at the trip’s end
Optional Items
Casual Clothes – If you prefer to change into something nicer for dinner.
- Snacks & Drink Sachets – If you like to have snacks on hand or prefer flavored water.
- Binoculars – Optional but great for wildlife viewing.
- Hairdryer – Only some hotels provide them.
- Headlamp/Flashlight – Useful at night and for exploring the lava tunnel on Santa Cruz Island.
- Adapter Plug – Ecuador uses a 110V AC system, compatible with Canadian and US plugs. Ensure your devices support 110-240V; otherwise, bring a converter.
- Alarm Clock – There are no wake-up calls, so bring a way to wake yourself up on time.
- iPod/Reading Material – Optional but great for entertainment during flights and boat trips.
Luggage Recommendations for You Galapagos Adventure
We recommend avoiding checking luggage whenever possible. If you must check a bag, be sure to pack essential or hard-to-replace items in your carry-on. During the trip, you'll use three main bags, plus an optional additional bag. Here's a breakdown:
Duffel Bag or Roll-On (Carry-On Size): This should meet carry-on requirements. If you prefer not to carry a duffel through airports, pack a light duffel inside a roll-on bag. In Guayaquil, you can transfer the items you need for the Galapagos into the duffel and leave the roll-on at the hotel. On your return flight, this same duffel can be used for souvenirs. We recommend a medium-size duffel that fits within carry-on limits. If you prefer, you can use the roll-on bag instead, but keep in mind that wheels add extra weight.
Small Day Pack: This is considered your carry-on “personal item.” We suggest a pack measuring about 18” high x 12” wide x 8” deep, with additional outside pockets of about 2” deep. This bag is perfect for carrying medications, books, games, and other essentials during the flight. In Ecuador, it's ideal for holding items you'll need during the day—whether kayaking, hiking, or exploring towns.
Dry Bag (Provided by ROW): This small bag will be used for your sea kayaking in the Galapagos. It holds items like your rain gear, sunscreen, sun shirt, binoculars, and camera—things you'll want to keep handy while on your kayak. The dry bag sits on top of your kayak for easy access throughout the day.
Optional “Wet Gear Bag”: This is for those who prefer an additional option to separate wet gear. The bag is optional, but it can be useful for storing items that you don't want to mix with dry items during the trip.
Reading List
The Beak of the Finch: A Story of Evolution in Our Time – Jonathan Weiner
- A fascinating look at evolution in action, based on research on Darwin’s finches.
Galápagos: The Islands That Changed the World – Paul D. Stewart
- A beautifully illustrated book that explores the islands’ ecology, wildlife, and history.
Voyage of the Beagle – Charles Darwin
- Darwin’s firsthand account of his journey, including his time in the Galápagos, where he formulated his theory of natural selection.
The Galápagos: A Natural History – Henry Nicholls
- A highly readable introduction to the islands’ unique ecosystems and conservation efforts.
Floreana: A Woman’s Pilgrimage to the Galápagos – Margret Wittmer
- A memoir about a family's life on Floreana Island in the 1930s, full of adventure and intrigue.
Lonely Planet Ecuador & the Galápagos Islands – Lonely Planet
- A practical travel guide covering logistics, wildlife, and cultural insights.
Galápagos – Kurt Vonnegut
- A satirical novel imagining a post-apocalyptic world where the Galápagos play a key role in human evolution.
Helpful Links
Galapagos Islands Weather Forecast - Check the local weather before you go.
Trip Adviser - Read reviews from past guests.
Galapagos Unbound Website - Here you can find information on other Galapagos tours and mainland Ecuador extensions.
Terms & Conditions
TRIP MEMBERS RESPONSIBILITY
Trip members have the responsibility to choose a trip appropriate to their abilities and interests. We are happy to discuss this with you. Trip members are held responsible for being in sufficient good health to undertake the trip and for preparing for the trip by studying the itinerary and pre-departure information sent by ROW Sea Kayak Adventures.
While most travel, including travel to international destinations, is completed without incident, travel to certain destinations may involve greater risk than others. ROW Sea Kayak Adventures urges passengers to review current announcements and advisories, travel warnings, and restrictions issued by the United States Government prior to booking travel to any international destination. Up to date infromation on various international travel conditions can be found at www.state.gov, www.tsa.gov, www.dot.gov, www.faa.gov, www.cdc.gov, www.treas.gov/ofac and www.customs.gov. By offering travel to particular international destinations, ROW Sea Kayak Adventures does not represent or guarantee that travel to such locations is advisable or without risk, and ROW Sea Kayak Adventures is not liable for damages or losses that may result from travel to such destinations.
ROW Sea Kayak Adventures reserves the right to disqualify anyone at any time before or during the trip for medical or psychological reasons. Each trip member is ultimately responsible for his or her own medical expenses. We cannot refund costs of medical examinations or other expenses incurred while preparing for a trip. If you arrive at the start of your trip with a pre-existing condition or injury that was not disclosed in writing to ROW Sea Kayak Adventures and you are subsequently forced to leave the trip because of this condition, you will be charged all extra evacuation expenses and will not receive a refund of any unused trip services. All health information is treated as confidential.
TERMS OF SERVICE
RESPONSIBILITY ~ AN IMPORTANT NOTICE
These paragraphs define our responsibility with respect to all of our trips. Please read carefully. Payment of deposit represents an acceptance by the tour member of these terms and conditions.
ROW Sea Kayak Adventures, Inc. an Idaho Corporation, and its owners, agents and employees give notice that services provided in connection with its itineraries, including transportation, hotel accommodations, restaurants, and other services, are purchased from various independent suppliers who are not affiliated with ROW Sea Kayak Adventures, Inc. Although it endeavors to choose the best suppliers possible, ROW Sea Kayak Adventures, Inc. has no right to control their operations and therefore makes these travel arrangements upon the express condition that
ROW Sea Kayak Adventures, Inc. and its own agents and employees shall not be liable for any delay, expense, mishap, inconvenience, bodily injury or death to person, or damage to property occasioned through the conduct or default of any company or individual engaged in providing these services. Each of these passenger conveyance companies, hotels, tour companies, restaurants, etc. is subject to the laws of the state or country where the service is provided.
ROW Sea Kayak Adventures, Inc. shall not be liable for bodily injury or property damage for any reason, including but not limited to acts of God, detention, annoyance, delays and expenses arising from quarantine, strikes, thefts, pilferage, force majeure, failure of any means of conveyance to arrive or depart as scheduled, civil disturbances, government restrictions or regulation, discrepancies or change in transit over which it has no control.
ROW Sea Kayak Adventures reserves the right, either prior to or after departure, in its good-faith discretion and in circumstances that warrant it, to change or re-price any tour, trip, or expedition. This includes the possibility of moving to an alternate location due to extreme water conditions, wind conditions, forest fires, road closures and/or acts of God.
ROW Sea Kayak Adventures, Inc. reserves the right to substitute hotels and leaders and to alter the itinerary when deemed necessary or advisable.
ROW Sea Kayak Adventures, Inc. reserves the right to take photographic or film records of any of our trips and may use any such records for promotional and/or commercial purposes.
LIABILITY RELEASE
All of our guests are required to sign a liability release form acknowledging that there are inherent risks associated with the nature of activities planned prior to traveling with ROW Sea Kayak Adventures. Your trip is not confirmed until ROW Sea Kayak Adventures receives this signed liability release form. Participation in the tour will not be allowed without a signed completed liability release form, and consistent with ROW Sea Kayak Adventures’ cancellation policy, no refund will be granted.
FOREIGN TRAVEL
ROW Sea Kayak Adventures, Inc. operates our trips in British Columbia, Canada. All other trips in foreign countries are arranged through and are operated by independent suppliers that provide the goods and services for your trip including, for example, food service providers, equipment suppliers, yacht and other transportation companies, lodging facilities, local ground operators, certain guides, etc. As a result, we have no right to control their operations and therefore make the described travel arrangements upon the express condition that the ROW Sea Kayak Adventures, Inc. its subsidiaries, agents and employees, shall not be liable for any delay, mishap, inconvenience, expense, irregularity, bodily injury or death to person, or damage to property occasioned through the conduct or fault of any company or individual engaged in providing these services.
ITINERARY CHANGES
We do our best to follow our itinerary as published; however, the nature of adventure travel is such that each trip will be slightly different. Weather, park regulation changes, hotel availability, guest ability, and other factors may require modifications. We always do our best to substitute equivalent destinations and activities. ROW Sea Kayak Adventures will not be held responsible for any refunds whatsoever for changes to the printed or scheduled itinerary.
DELAYS
Travel requires a flexible attitude. Due to factors out of our control, including but not limited to weather, unannounced road construction, etc., delays do occur. For example, flights sometimes don’t operate as scheduled, roads may wash out, or detours may be necessary. We advise you to consider these potential factors when planning your travel to our tour destinations, as well as ask for your flexibility and understanding when delays due to factors out of our control necessitate changes to your tour itinerary.
CANCELLED TRIPS
ROW Sea Kayak Adventures reserves the right to cancel any trip prior to departure for any reason whatsoever, including insufficient sign-ups or logistical problems, which may impede trip operations. The refund of all land payments received shall release ROW Sea Kayak Adventures from any further liability. In the event of trip cancellation, ROW Sea Kayak Adventures, Inc. is not responsible for expenses incurred by trip members in preparing for a cancelled trip (e.g. visa fees, equipment, nonrefundable advance purchase air tickets, etc.) or for any additional arrangements should the trip member have embarked prior to the scheduled group departure date. A trip cancellation due to insufficient sign-ups would normally occur at least 30 days prior to departure.
MISCELLANEOUS MATTERS
ROW Sea Kayak Adventures shall not be liable for (a) expenses such as additional hotel nights and meals not specified in the individual trip itineraries, but which may be required to get to and from a trip start or end; (b) expenses due to the delay of a trip for any reason (e.g. bad weather, trail conditions, landslides, flooding, sickness, etc.); (c) expenses incurred in recovering luggage lost by airlines, belongings left behind on a trip or in shipping purchases or other goods home from abroad.