Galapagos Islands Vacation

*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)

Day 1: Arrive on Santa Cruz | Giant Tortoises & Lava Tunnels

The journey begins as you arrive on Baltra Island and meet your Galápagos guide, who welcomes you and sets the tone for the days ahead. From there, you cross to Santa Cruz Island and head straight into the island’s lush highlands.

At a private reserve, giant tortoises move slowly through their natural habitat, offering an up-close look at one of the Galápagos’ most iconic species. Nearby, ancient lava tunnels wind beneath the surface that were formed by volcanic eruptions long ago. Here we are invited to explore the island’s geologic past.

A relaxed lunch features local flavors in the cool, green highlands before the route continues to Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz’s lively coastal town. After settling in, the group gathers for the first shared dinner, easing into island life and enjoying a taste of Galápagos cuisine together.

• Accommodation: Hotel Solymar or Hotel Posada del Mar or similar
• Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Kayak Tortuga Bay | Travel to Isabela Island

The day opens with breakfast before setting out on a scenic walk to Tortuga Bay. The well-marked trail winds through arid landscape and coastal vegetation, where lava lizards dart across the path and native birds move through the brush.

At the shoreline, the route continues along a broad stretch of white sand to Playa Mansa, a sheltered bay framed by mangroves and calm water. Here, kayaks glide quietly across the bay, offering close views of sea turtles, rays, and white-tipped reef sharks cruising beneath the surface. The paddle is relaxed and accessible, making it enjoyable for all experience levels.

After returning to Puerto Ayora for lunch, the journey continues by boat to Isabela Island, the largest island in the Galápagos. Once settled in Puerto Villamil, the afternoon unfolds at an easy pace with a stroll through town and time to relax on the beach, where the day ends with a glowing sunset over the Pacific.

• Accommodation: Hotel Albermarle or Casa de Marita or similar
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Los Túneles Snorkeling | Isabela Wetlands & Tortoise Center

The day begins on the water with a boat ride to Los Túneles, one of the most striking marine environments in the Galápagos. Sculpted by ancient lava flows, this maze of arches, channels, and sheltered pools creates calm, clear conditions ideal for snorkeling. Beneath the surface, vibrant marine life fills the water, sea turtles drift past, rays glide along the bottom, reef fish flash with color, and white-tipped reef sharks move effortlessly through the shallows.

Back on Isabela in the afternoon, the pace shifts with a walk through the island’s wetlands. The trail passes lagoons and mangroves alive with birdlife, where flamingos feed in the shallows and marine iguanas bask nearby. The walk leads to the Arnaldo Tupiza Giant Tortoise Breeding Center, where juvenile and adult tortoises offer a close look at ongoing conservation efforts and the future of these iconic animals.

• Accommodation: Hotel Albermarle or Casa de Marita
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 4: Sierra Negra Volcano Hike | San Cristóbal | Bike to La Lobería

The morning begins high in the Isabela highlands with a hike across the vast landscape of Sierra Negra Volcano, one of the most active volcanoes in the Galápagos. The trail follows the rim of an immense caldera, where layers of hardened lava and sweeping views reveal the raw power that continues to shape the islands. As the route climbs, native birdlife appears along the way, adding flashes of color and movement to the stark volcanic terrain.

From the volcano, the journey shifts islands with a short flight to San Cristóbal, the easternmost and oldest island in the archipelago. After settling in, the afternoon unfolds on two wheels with a relaxed bike ride to La Lobería, a scenic stretch of coastline known for its resident sea lions. Here, the animals lounge on the sand and play in the surf, creating an easygoing end to a day shaped by geology, movement, and island life. For those inclined, the clear water invites a refreshing swim alongside these curious locals.

• Accommodation: Hotel Seaside or Hotel Casa Blanca or similar
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5: Kicker Rock Snorkeling, Interpretation Center & Frigatebird Lookout.

This morning we head out to sea for a Galapagos highlight that never disappoints. A boat ride from San Cristóbal delivers us to Kicker Rock, where sheer volcanic walls rise straight from the ocean, forming a narrow passage alive with movement below the surface.

Sliding into the water, we snorkel alongside these dramatic cliffs and drift through the channel, surrounded by crystal-clear depths. Sea turtles paddle past, rays sweep along the sand, and schools of brightly colored fish shimmer below. On lucky days, silhouettes of sharks—sometimes even hammerheads—cruise through the blue, an awe-inspiring sight best appreciated from the water.

After snorkeling, we pause at a quiet beach reachable only by boat. There’s time to swim, relax, or simply soak in the setting before enjoying lunch on board, framed by the unmistakable outline of Kicker Rock in the distance.

Back on shore, the afternoon turns reflective with a visit to the Galapagos Interpretation Center, where we dig into the islands’ natural history, conservation efforts, and human story. From there, we walk up to Tijeretas (Frigatebird) Hill, where soaring seabirds and sweeping coastal views offer a fitting final vista.

Tonight, we gather for a celebratory farewell dinner at a relaxed, open-air restaurant for a memorable send-off on our last evening in the Enchanted Islands.

Optional diving at Kicker Rock is available. Please ask us in advance for details.

• Accommodation: Hotel Casa Blanca or similar
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Leisurely Morning & Return to Quito

Your final morning in the Galapagos unfolds at your own rhythm. Wander the waterfront one last time, linger over coffee, browse for meaningful keepsakes, or slip into the Pacific for a final swim—an unhurried goodbye to a place that leaves a lasting mark.

In the early afternoon, we transfer to the airport for your flight back to mainland Ecuador. If your travels continue, this is a perfect transition point to discover another side of the country, whether that’s a guided day experience or a deeper dive into one of Ecuador’s many remarkable regions.

A smooth farewell, with plenty of inspiration still ahead.

• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

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 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.

Click Here to Access Our Helpful Weather and Wildlife Guide

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.

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:

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

Here are a number of books to consider
Our top two picks are

• The Reluctant Mr. Darwin: An Intimate Portrait of Charles Darwin and the Making of His Theory of Evolution (Great Discoveries) by David Quammen (Author) An engaging read that helps us understand the world at the time of Darwin and why he took so long to publish his theory of evolution
• Weiner, J. (1994). Beak of the finch: A story of evolution in our time. Vintage Books This chronicles the research done by two scientists who spent 20 years flushing out Darwin’s theory of evolution A compelling story that will surely help you appreciate the importance of the Galapagos Islands  
• Constant, P. (2007). Marine Life of the galápagos: A diver's guide to the fishes, whales, dolphins and marine invertebrates. Cordee
• Ferreiro, Larrie D. (2013). Measure of the Earth: The Enlightenment Expedition That Reshaped Our World. Basic Books A fun read filled with human drama and that expands our understanding of geography and how we understand our earth today
• Fitter, Julian, et al. (2016). Wildlife of Galápagos. Princeton University Press
• Grubb, K. G. (1930). Amazon and Andes. Mathuen & Co. Ltd. Written by a distant cousin of ROW Founder Peter Grubb, this is a light read of an adventure-focused missionary in the early 1900’s
• Harris, M. P. (1992). A field guide to the Birds of Galapagos. HarperCollins
• Hassaurek, F., & Gardiner, C. H. (1967). Four years among the Ecuadorians. Southern Illinois University Press
• Hickman, C. P. (1998). A field guide to sea stars and other echinoderms of galápagos. Sugar Spring Press
• Horwell, D., & Oxford, P. (2005). Galápagos wildlife: A visitor's guide. Bradt Travel Guides
• Hurtado, O. (1980). Political power in Ecuador. Routledge
• Jackson, M. H. (1993). Galapagos, a natural history. University of Calgary Press
• Kricher, J. C. (1999). A neotropical companion: An introduction to the animals, plants, and ecosystems of the New World Tropics. Princeton University Press
• McIntyre, L. (1988). The incredible Incas and their timeless land. Nactional Geographic Society
• Schofield, E. K. (1984). Plants of the Galápagos Islands: Field Guide and Travel Journal. Universe Books
• Treherne, J. E. (2011). The Galapagos Affair. Vintage Digital
• White, A., & Epler, B. (1986). Galapagos Guide
• Whymper, E. (1990). Travels amongst the Great Andes of the equator. Murray
• Wittmer, M., & Antonio, M. W. J. (2010). Floreana. Editorial Galápagos

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. 

The Best Galápagos Tour Extensions - Explore how you can extend your adventure beyond the Galápagos!

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.