Galapagos Unbound Multisport Tour

Why This Tour:

  • With hundreds of 5-star reviews, Galápagos Unbound Multisport is the top choice for travelers seeking an unforgettable adventure.
  • We go above and beyond to accommodate the desires of all travelers to ensure they get the most out of their Galápagos Islands vacation.
  • Our exclusive Galápagos camping experience is truly unique and offers intimate wildlife encounters, making it one of the best beachside eco-camps.
  • Explore secluded coves and coastlines while kayaking amongst a diverse array of marine life.
  • Travel with one of the pioneers of Galápagos land-based travel, with Galápagos Unbound advocating for low-impact experiences in the archipelago.
  • Our guides are personally trained in the “Galápagos Unbound Difference,” ensuring they deliver what will undoubtedly be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
  • Check out our itinerary below, and you can immediately see the Galápagos Unbound difference. We pioneered Galápagos land tours and have consistently advocated for environmentally low-impact travel through these utterly enchanting "enchanted isles."

Trip Overview

  • This Galápagos Unbound tour was featured in the New York Times travel section on January 8, 2006, in an article by Tim Neville. While some details of the original itinerary have been modified since then, the tour's essence as an unparalleled multisport adventure in the Galapagos remains unchanged. Our certified local guides continue to work closely with the Galápagos Park Service to deliver an exceptional experience.

  • Immerse yourself in the diverse wildlife and ecosystems of the Galápagos Islands with our Galápagos Unbound Signature Tour. This unique, small-group tour takes you beyond the typical cruise to snorkel, hike, and kayak alongside iconic species while supporting the local community. Experience an intimate, eco-conscious journey through the archipelago's unique islands and habitats on an adventure you’ll never forget.

  • No words can fully convey the awe of getting up close with birds and animals that show little fear of humans. On a Galápagos Islands vacation, you can swim with playful sea lions, stand within feet of vibrant blue-footed boobies, and see marine iguanas and giant tortoises found only here. The wonders of the Galápagos are truly indescribable.

  • This Galápagos land tour combines gentle paddles to remote coves with nights spent camping on pristine beaches—an experience that is one-of-a-kind. You’ll hike to the rim of an active volcano, come face-to-face with marine life while snorkeling, and experience awe-inspiring sunsets over the Pacific Ocean. We trek and kayak to secluded sites inaccessible to larger groups, encountering wildlife and embracing the journey itself. As the only Galápagos land-based travel experience that includes camping on deserted beaches, Galápagos Unbound provides a distinctive experience.

  • This Galápagos active trip is also one of the most sustainable eco-tours in the archipelago, offering a minimally impactful experience that supports both the islands' environment and local communities. Compared to a cruise, this trip has a smaller carbon footprint by using far less fuel per person. More of the fees from your Galápagos Islands holiday will go directly to islanders, bringing them greater economic benefits. Uniquely, the trip includes camping on an approved island beach using ultra-low-impact techniques that exceed "Leave No Trace" standards.

Additional Information:

The Galapagos Islands have been a protected national park of Ecuador since 1959. These remote islands are renowned worldwide for their unique natural history and the remarkable, friendly creatures that inhabit them. To preserve this exceptional environment, access to the islands is highly regulated. While most tours to the Galapagos are cruise-based, aboard yachts carrying between ten and ninety people, our journey offers something different.

This exclusive experience allows small groups to visit sites off the beaten path, inaccessible to larger, more conventional tours. We explore in the most environmentally-friendly way possible—by walking and sea kayaking—avoiding more intrusive modes of travel. Our reward is not only the stunning wildlife and landscapes we encounter, but also the joy of reaching these remarkable places under our own power.

Our itinerary covers five islands, each with its own diverse wildlife and ecosystems. Every part of this journey offers something beyond the destination itself, and we’re excited to provide an unforgettable experience for the adventurous souls who join us.

 

Images & Videos

A tandem sea kayak paddling up to a sandy beach with a seal
Two blue footed boobies on a log
underground tours on the Galapagos Islands
People standing over a natural bridge at Los Tuneles in the Galapagos Islands
Luxury camping accommodations in the Galapagos Islands
A Galapagos Marine Iguana on the beach at sunset
boat in the galapagos
two people in a yellow tandem sea kayak on a guided sea kayaking excursion in the Galapagos Islands
Sea turtles swimming in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of the Galapagos Islands
Galapagos eco beachside campsite
Freshly prepared dinner at an eco beach camp in the Galapagos
Guided walking tours on San Cristobal in the Galapagos
People sea kayaking in the Pacific Ocean off the Galapagos Islands
A couple smiling for a photo on the beach
A sea lion looking over a pile of iguana on a beach in the Galapagos
Volcano hiking in the Galapagos Islands
A group of travelers on a guided tour observing the Galapagos Islands land tortoise
Sea kayakers paddling towards Kicker Rock off the coast of Ecuador
Two tents set up on a beach with the doors open at sunset in the Galapagos Islands
Mother and daughter looking at a wave crashing while on vacation in the Galapagos Islands
Two seals laying next to each other on a beach in the Galapagos Islands
A tandem sea kayak paddling up to a sandy beach with a seal
Two blue footed boobies on a log
underground tours on the Galapagos Islands
People standing over a natural bridge at Los Tuneles in the Galapagos Islands
Luxury camping accommodations in the Galapagos Islands
A Galapagos Marine Iguana on the beach at sunset
boat in the galapagos
two people in a yellow tandem sea kayak on a guided sea kayaking excursion in the Galapagos Islands
Sea turtles swimming in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of the Galapagos Islands
Galapagos eco beachside campsite
Freshly prepared dinner at an eco beach camp in the Galapagos
Guided walking tours on San Cristobal in the Galapagos
People sea kayaking in the Pacific Ocean off the Galapagos Islands
A couple smiling for a photo on the beach
A sea lion looking over a pile of iguana on a beach in the Galapagos
Volcano hiking in the Galapagos Islands
A group of travelers on a guided tour observing the Galapagos Islands land tortoise
Sea kayakers paddling towards Kicker Rock off the coast of Ecuador
Two tents set up on a beach with the doors open at sunset in the Galapagos Islands
Mother and daughter looking at a wave crashing while on vacation in the Galapagos Islands
Two seals laying next to each other on a beach in the Galapagos Islands

Itinerary

Sea Kayak Adventures Galapagos Unbound itinerary map
Collapse all days

Day 1

Arrive in Guayaquil

Fly into Guayaquil where a SKA representative will meet you at the airport, marking the start of your Galapagos kayaking tour. They will assist with your luggage and drive you to your hotel for the first night of your Galapagos Islands holiday.

Day 2

Guayaquil to San Cristobal, Wildlife Viewing and Sightseeing

In the morning, a SKA tour leader will pick you up from your hotel to go to the airport and catch a quick flight to San Cristobal, the easternmost island in the Galapagos. When we land, a naturalist guide from the Galapagos National Park will greet us at the airport, collect our luggage, and take us to our first adventure. On the way, we'll stop in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, the second-largest town in the Galapagos, for lunch.

After lunch, we will take a short ride to a beach in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. There, we will try on our snorkeling gear and wetsuits to make sure we have what we need before starting our first paddle of this Galapagos sea kayaking trip. We'll load our luggage onto the support boat, which will meet us at the campsite later. Then we'll begin a 2.5-3 hour (6 nautical mile) paddle to Manglecito Beach.

As we kayak, we will pass volcanic peaks and abundant vegetation, as well as Lobos Island, a prime spot for viewing blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, and other local wildlife. From the intimate vantage point of our kayaks, we may also be fortunate enough to see many sea turtles!

Activity: Sea Kayaking
Distance: Approx. 6-8 km (3.5–5 miles)
Est Time: 2-3 hrs
Difficulty: Easy to moderate – suitable for most people, even beginners

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

Day 3

Explore Galapagos Oceanfront Camp + Kicker Rock

Enjoy a leisurely morning exploring the stunning Manglecito Beach before beginning our three-hour paddle. Our support boat will be nearby if assistance is needed and we'll stop at a secluded beach for lunch and wildlife viewing. 

After lunch, we'll continue by catamaran to Kicker Rock, an incredible snorkeling spot with white-tipped reef sharks, eagle rays, and Galapagos sharks, as well as hundreds of tropical fish. As the sun sets over the Pacific, we'll settle into our eco beach camp for an evening under the stars. 

*Note: The order of the activities may vary depending on National Park schedules. Additionally, the boat ride to Kicker Rock on Shared Services is in groups of 4 to 7 people.

Activity: Sea Kayaking
Distance: Approx. 8 km (5 miles)
Est Time: 3 hrs
Difficulty: Moderate – longer paddle, support available if needed

Activity: Snorkeling at Kicker Rock
Est Time: 1-2 hrs
Difficulty: Easy – suitable for most participants, though be prepared for cold water temperatures

ACCOMMODATION : Exclusive Beach Camping
MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Box Lunch, Dinner

Day 4

San Cristobal Island – Flight to Isabela Island – Tortoise Breeding Center – Wetlands Kayaking

This morning we depart camp early and return by boat to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, then fly onward to Isabela Island. After settling into our beachfront hotel, we visit the Tortoise Breeding Center, operated by the Galapagos National Park to conserve the island’s iconic giant tortoises. We also explore Puerto Villamil’s white sand beaches and stroll through the surrounding wetlands, home to abundant birdlife and unique coastal ecosystems.

In the afternoon, we take to our kayaks for a peaceful paddle through Isabela’s sheltered bays and lagoons. This area is excellent for spotting small Galapagos penguins, blue-footed boobies, and herons, and we often glide past sea turtles resting near the surface. Kayaking in these calm waters allows us to connect with the wildlife and scenery at a relaxed pace.

Note: Baggage allowance for these small planes is 25 lbs per person. Overweight luggage may be charged $2 per lb (subject to availability).

Activity: Kayaking
Distance: Approx. 3–5 km (2–3 miles)
Est Time: 1.5–2 hrs
Difficulty: Easy – relaxing paddle in calm waters

MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5

Sierra Negra Volcano, Hiking, Beach Time

After waking with the sunrise, we will drive just under an hour to the upper highlands of Isabela Island to hike to Sierra Negra, an active volcano that last erupted in 2005. This hike features the world's second-largest caldera, spanning over 6 miles in diameter, as well as panoramic caldera views, lava formations, and incredible wildlife sightings. 

Once we complete the 6-10 mile hike, we'll return to town for some free time to unwind on the beach or explore the local area. 

Activity: Hiking around Sierra Negra Volcano
Distance: 6-10 miles (10-16 km)
Est Time: 5-6 hrs
Elevation Details:

  • Starting Point: Approximately 800 meters (2,625 feet) at the National Park entrance
  • Highest Point: Around 1,021 meters (3,350 feet) at the crater rim
  • Elevation Gain: Approximately 221 meters (725 feet)

Terrain: The trail features gradual inclines, traversing lush vegetation and volcanic terrain. It's a moderately strenuous hike, suitable for those in good physical condition.
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging – some steep sections and high altitude

MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch

Day 6

Los Tuneles + El Finado

If the weather allows, we’ll begin Day 6 of our Galapagos Islands tour with a morning boat ride to Los Tuneles, a fascinating lava formation that’s notable for its arches and caves. We’ll stroll along the shore and snorkel in the crystal-clear water to get a glimpse of the remarkable underwater world.

Enjoy lunch on the boat before heading to nearby El Finado, a secluded inlet where local fishermen have rested between ocean journeys for years. Then snorkel amongst white-tipped reef sharks, stingrays, and bright tropical fish, which can be seen darting around lava rock caves and small reefs just below the surface.

Depending on the weather, we will either have a BBQ dinner on the beach or dine at a local restaurant.

Activity: Snorkeling at Los Tuneles
Est Time: 1-2 hrs
Difficulty: Moderate – snorkeling in open water with possible current, but guided

Activity: Snorkeling at El Finado
Est Time: 1-2 hrs
Difficulty: Easy to moderate – calm waters, shallow reefs

MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Box Lunch, Dinner

Day 7

Isabela Island – Santa Cruz Island – Tortuga Bay
This morning we board a speedboat for Santa Cruz Island, beginning our explorations with a visit to the world-renowned Darwin Research Station and the headquarters of the Galapagos National Park in Puerto Ayora. Later we drive through the lush highlands to see wild Galapagos tortoises foraging in their natural habitat and walk through the island’s lava tunnels to learn more about the archipelago’s volcanic history.

Afterward, we head to Tortuga Bay, considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the Galapagos. A box lunch gives us more time to relax at the beach instead of returning to town. The afternoon is at leisure to enjoy Tortuga Bay as you like — stroll the long white sand beach, swim, or simply soak in the scenery. Guests are welcome to snorkel or kayak on their own, though these activities are optional and not guided.

Activity: Hiking to Tortuga Bay
Distance: 3 km (1.8 miles)
Est Time: 45 min–1 hr
Difficulty: Easy – mostly flat trail with minimal elevation

MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Box Lunch

Day 8

Tortuga Bay + Sea Kayaking

Start Day 8 of your Galapagos Islands holiday with a scenic 2-mile hike along a paved trail from Puerto Ayora to Tortuga Bay, winding through prickly pear cacti, Palo Santo trees, and abundant local flora. At Tortuga Bay, we'll have time to unwind on the beach before walking the full coastline to a calm cove perfect for snorkeling and kayaking. 

In the afternoon, we'll paddle our kayaks around a series of gentle, shallow lagoons, home to rays, mullets, and sharks. We'll conclude this trip to the Galapagos Islands with a farewell dinner in the evening. 

Note: The kayak activity may vary depending on the tides.

Activity: Kayaking in the Highlands Lagoon
Distance: Approx. 2-3 km (1.2-1.9 miles)
Est Time: 1-2 hrs
Difficulty: Easy – calm water, short paddle

MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9

Back to Guayaquil to Return Home or Extend Your Stay

In the morning, we will travel to the airport on Santa Cruz Island whose original runway was built by the U.S. Navy during WWII. Our flight to Guayaquil on mainland Ecuador will take about two hours, during which time you can reflect on your Galapagos kayaking tour. We expect to have you in Guayaquil by 5 PM where you can transfer to the international terminal for your return flight home or continue your onward travel in South America. 

MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast

Featured Accommodation

Dates & Rates

DatesAdult (USD)Child (USD)
2025
Dec 22, 2025 to Dec 30, 2025
Christmas in the Galapagos & Free Mainland Ecuador → Galapagos Flights*
$6,200£0€0$0$0$6,200£0€0$0$0
2026
Jan 10, 2026 to Jan 18, 2026
Lowest Tier Price
$6,690£0€0$0$0$6,690£0€0$0$0
Feb 13, 2026 to Feb 21, 2026
Lowest Tier & Free Mainland Ecuador → Galapagos Flights
SOLD OUT
$6,690£0€0$0$0$6,690£0€0$0$0
Mar 15, 2026 to Mar 23, 2026
& Free Mainland Ecuador → Galapagos Flights
$6,690£0€0$0$0$6,690£0€0$0$0
Apr 04, 2026 to Apr 12, 2026
Lowest Tier Price
$6,690£0€0$0$0$6,690£0€0$0$0
May 09, 2026 to May 17, 2026
Lowest Tier Price
$6,690£0€0$0$0$6,690£0€0$0$0
Jun 13, 2026 to Jun 21, 2026
Lowest Tier & Free Mainland Ecuador → Galapagos Flights
$6,690£0€0$0$0$6,690£0€0$0$0
Jul 04, 2026 to Jul 12, 2026
Lowest Tier & Free Mainland Ecuador → Galapagos Flights
$6,690£0€0$0$0$6,690£0€0$0$0
Nov 07, 2026 to Jul 15, 2026
Lowest Tier Price
$6,690£0€0$0$0$6,690£0€0$0$0
Dec 12, 2026 to Dec 20, 2026
Lowest Tier Price
$6,690£0€0$0$0$6,690£0€0$0$0
Dec 21, 2026 to Dec 29, 2026
Christmas in Galapagos! Lowest Tier Price
$6,690£0€0$0$0$6,690£0€0$0$0
2027
Jan 09, 2027 to Jan 17, 2026
Lowest Tier Price
$7,360£0€0$0$0$7,360£0€0$0$0
Feb 20, 2027 to Feb 28, 2027
Lowest Tier Price & Free Mainland Ecuador → Galapagos Flights
$7,360£0€0$0$0$7,360£0€0$0$0
Apr 03, 2027 to Apr 11, 2027
Lowest Tier Price
$7,360£0€0$0$0$7,360£0€0$0$0
May 08, 2027 to May 16, 2027
Lowest Tier Price & Free Mainland Ecuador → Galapagos Flights
$7,360£0€0$0$0$7,360£0€0$0$0
Jun 12, 2027 to Jun 20, 2027
Lowest Tier Price & Free Mainland Ecuador → Galapagos Flights
$7,360£0€0$0$0$7,360£0€0$0$0
Aug 07, 2027 to Aug 15, 2027
Lowest Tier Price & Free Mainland Ecuador → Galapagos Flights
$7,360£0€0$0$0$7,360£0€0$0$0
Oct 02, 2027 to Oct 10, 2027
Lowest Tier Price & Free Mainland Ecuador → Galapagos Flights
$7,360£0€0$0$0$7,360£0€0$0$0
Nov 06, 2027 to Nov 14, 2027
Lowest Tier Price - Peak season!
$7,360£0€0$0$0$7,360£0€0$0$0
Dec 11, 2027 to Dec 19, 2027
Lowest Tier Price - Peak season!
$7,360£0€0$0$0$7,360£0€0$0$0
Dec 20, 2027 to Dec 28, 2027
Christmas In The Galapagos - Spaces Sell Fast
$7,360£0€0$0$0$7,360£0€0$0$0

Supplementary Information

 

2026 Pricing:

  • 4 - 7 Guests: $7,190 per person
  • 8 - 12 Guests: $6,690 per person

December High Season Supplement: $500 per person

Single Supplement for Solo Travelers: $995

*FREE Galápagos Flights: Mainland Ecuador to Galápagos Islands airfare included on select departures! 

  • Jan 10 - 18, 2026 *Free Ecuador to Galapagos Islands airfare
  • Feb 13 - 21, 2026 *Free Ecuador to Galapagos Islands airfare
  • Mar 15 - 23, 2026 *Free Ecuador to Galapagos Islands airfare
  • June 13 - 21, 2026  *Free Ecuador to Galapagos Islands airfare
  • July 4 -12, 2026  *Free Ecuador to Galapagos Islands airfare

2027 Pricing:

  • 4 - 7 Guests: $7,910 per person
  • 8 - 12 Guests: $7,360 per person

December High Season Supplement: $500 per person

Single Supplement for Solo Travelers: $995

*FREE Galápagos Flights: Mainland Ecuador to Galápagos Islands airfare included on select departures! 

  • Feb 20 - 28, 2027 *Free Ecuador to Galapagos Islands airfare
  • May 8 - 16, 2027 *Free Ecuador to Galapagos Islands airfare
  • June 12 - 20, 2027 *Free Ecuador to Galapagos Islands airfare
  • Aug 7 - 15, 2027 *Free Ecuador to Galapagos Islands airfare
  • Oct 2 - 10, 2027 *Free Ecuador to Galapagos Islands airfare

Additional Budgeting Information

Please budget an additional $1,135 for flights and fees. 

This amount is broken down as follows:

  • $615 per person for round-trip flights from mainland Ecuador to the Galápagos
  • $300 per person for internal flights and boat transfers within the Galápagos
  • $20 per person for the Tourism Migration Control Tax (TCT)

Galápagos National Park Entrance Fee
This fee must be paid in cash upon arrival at the park. Please bring U.S. dollars in bills of $20 or less, ensuring that the bills are new, crisp, and free of tears or ink marks.

  • $200 for visitors aged 12 and older
  • $100 for children aged 11 and younger

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. 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.  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.

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

  • Wetsuits for navigable tours (Shorty Wetsuit)

  • All transportation as noted on the itinerary

  • All meals and drinks as noted on the itinerary

  • Snacks and purified water

  • 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

  • National Park fee and Immigration Tax

  • 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

Reviews

5
Average: 5 (22 votes)

Reviews

Google Review
5

Not your typical trip to the islands!

If you want an adventure trip in the Galapagos Island, this is your company. The camping, kayaking, snorkeling, hiking, keep you busy while enjoying the beauty of this special place. The guide and the naturalists are wonderful. Not your typical trip to the islands!

5

Galapagos Unbound

This trip offers such an immersive look at life in the islands - both for the wildlife and for the local human populations! I was overcome with the animals, they are so content and comfortable around people. Some highlights for me were the beach camping, snorkeling at Kicker Rock, and getting to kayak along the shore. Guides were excellent on each island, so full of knowledge and personal anecdotes. Hopefully someday I will return to the Galapagos!

5

Galapagos Unbound - Wonderful

My memories of this trip are of snorkeling with sea lion pups and giggling so hard I inhaled seawater - it was totally worth it! The guides were smart, knowledgeable and almost superhuman in their abilities to keep 12 of us moving with the itinerary while still sharing the best of these islands and the incredible wildlife. Sleeping on a beach under the stars. Standing 6 feet from a nesting bird, snorkeling with turtles and sharks. Seeing penguins (yes really) nesting. So many emotional wildlife moments! If you want to really see the Galapagos this is the way to do it.

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FAQ & More

When is the best time to visit the Galapagos?

The best time to visit the Galapagos Islands depends on what you want to see and experience there, and 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 warmer Panama Current flows from the north and brings slightly 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. Check out further recommendations on when to go here. 

For a month to month comparison of temperatures and wildlife activity check out the Galapagos Calendar.

What is the weather like in the Galapagos Islands?

The weather in the Galapagos Islands remains warm most of the year because of its location on the equator. The warmest season in the Galapgos 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. Visit this page for a month-to-month detail on weather. 

Where are the Galapagos Islands located & where should I fly into?

The Galápagos Islands (Archipiélago de Colón) are a province of Ecuador located about 500 miles (800 km) off the country’s western coast, sitting directly on the equator.

For travel to the islands, you’ll want to book your international flights into Guayaquil, as our Galápagos Unbound tour begins there.

You may also choose to fly into Quito and spend a few days exploring the capital. However, you will need to arrange a short 45-minute domestic flight from Quito to Guayaquil to arrive in time for the start of the Galápagos Unbound tour.

When should I arrive in Ecuador? When should I depart?

On this active, land-based Galápagos itinerary, you should plan to arrive in Guayaquil on Day 1. This first day is considered a travel day, allowing all guests to get into Guayaquil before the early flight to the islands on Day 2.

For your return, please keep in mind that you should not schedule your departing international flight before 7:00 p.m. on the final day of the itinerary. Flights from the Galápagos typically arrive back into Guayaquil around 4:00 p.m., but this can vary due to weather or delays.

Because of the timing, many guests choose to stay an extra night in Guayaquil and fly out the following morning for a more relaxed end to their trip.

What is the camping like on this tour?

We provide all necessary camping equipment to ensure quality and comfort. At our exclusive oceanfront camp, we have spacious tents that allow you to stand up. Each tent is equipped with cots, sleeping bags, sheets, pillows, and a small lantern. There is also plenty of space for your luggage to be stored inside your tent. While you're out enjoying the Galapagos Islands during the day, your tents will be cleaned, so you return to a comfortable and inviting space at the end of the day.

If you’d like to rinse off after a long day in the water, a designated shower tent will be set up by your guides.

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 also 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 trip like this one. 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 kind of equipment or gear should I bring?

All of the kayaking and camping equipment is provided, so just bring your clothing and personal gear. A complete pack list is available here. We highly suggest traveling “light” for this adventure, as the domestic flights limit the amount of luggage to 35 lbs per person. 

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.

Do you take care of our ticketing for air travel within Ecuador?

Yes, all Domestic flights between mainland Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands will be included on your invoice. We will make the arrangements in conjunction with our partners in Ecuador.  Flights to the Galapagos Islands depart several times daily from both Quito and Guayaquil aboard Boeing 737’s or Airbus 320’s or similar.

Is it possible to go scuba diving in the Galapagos?

We recommend if you'd like to enjoy some scuba diving, that you stay on the islands for an extra day or two. This can easily be arranged at an additional cost. Please note that most diving locations in the Galapagos are very technical and often require certification in addition to significant experience. 

Will the tour guide 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

What are your Terms and Conditions?

Please see our full Terms & Conditions HERE.

Can I add pre/post hotel nights, and what do they cost?

Yes, we can absolutely arrange a pre- or post-night stay at the Wyndham Guayaquil Puerto Santa Ana. This is a beautiful hotel that also includes a complimentary airport shuttle to and from the airport. If you are booking a pre-arrival night, we will request that you stay in the same room for both nights; however, this cannot be guaranteed. Please note that check-in time at the Wyndham Puerto Santa Ana is 3:00 PM.

Additional Hotel Night – Wyndham Guayaquil
Double Accommodation: $110 per person, per night
Single Accommodation: $210 per night

Do I need a Visa to visit The Galapagos?

Most travelers, including U.S. and Canadian citizens, do not need a visa to visit Ecuador for stays of up to 90 days.
You must have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date and proof of onward or return travel.

If you are traveling to the Galápagos Islands, you will also need to pay the Galápagos National Park entrance fee, handled at the airport before your flight. 

Some nationalities do require a visa, so if you are not a U.S. or Canadian passport holder, please check your country’s entry requirements.

Are any vaccines required?

No vaccines are required for entry into Ecuador or the Galápagos for most travelers.

A yellow fever vaccine is recommended (not required) only if you plan to visit certain remote areas of mainland Ecuador, such as the Amazon region. It is not required for the Galápagos Islands.

If you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission, Ecuador may require proof of vaccination.

As always, travelers should consult their doctor or a travel clinic at least 4–6 weeks before departure.

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