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Ecuador & Galapagos Vacation Packages

Ecuador & the Galapagos Islands Adventure Tours

Explore stunning terrain and discover fearless wildlife as you hike, bike, kayak, snorkel, and more on our Galapagos Islands vacation packages.

Set off on a Galapagos vacation without a care in the world. Our Galapagos vacation packages include everything you need for a stress-free exploration of the incredible landscapes, uninhibited wildlife, and welcoming locals of this famous archipelago.

Hike along volcanic trails and protected highlands and marvel at lava bombs and lava tubes on your way to the top of a volcano. Behold centenarian giant tortoises who can stand as tall as a toddler, snorkel alongside warm-water penguins and watch as a blue-footed booby dances in courtship. Return each night to a fresh meal and a restful night’s sleep in the comfort of your local hotel.

While you’ll spend plenty of time in the water kayaking, snorkeling, or diving, we choose to keep our Galapagos Islands vacations land-based to better allow you to connect to the local culture. Get to know “island life” each night as you relax in comfortable lodging and lounge like a local. During the day, we lessen our impact on the environment and marine life by using smaller boats to journey between the islands.

Our Galapagos vacation packages are designed to help you relax your mind, energize your body, and ignite your inner adventurer.  

Best Galapagos Vacation Packages

Central & South America

Ultimate Galapagos Islands Adventure

4.83

  • Duration 10 days
  • Activity Level Level 3 
    • Activity Level 3

      Step It Up

      I love an active vacation. Engaging in a challenging activity with a difficult goal, such as reaching a summit, is exactly what I need to unwind in the evenings.

    Read more about the Active Range

Get a fresh perspective of life on the Galapagos Islands as you land-hop from island to island, filling your days with hiking, biking, cruising, snorkeling, and swimming. Relax each night on land and get to know the local way of life.

Trip Start: Quito Trip End: Quito

Central & South America

Classic Galapagos Islands Adventure

ActiveAdventures

Operated by our sister brand Active Adventures

4.50

  • Duration 7 days
  • Activity Level Level 3 
    • Activity Level 3

      Step It Up

      I love an active vacation. Engaging in a challenging activity with a difficult goal, such as reaching a summit, is exactly what I need to unwind in the evenings.

    Read more about the Active Range

Explore the best of the Galapagos Islands on this seven-day island-hopping adventure. Snorkel Kicker Rock, cycle San Cristobal, hike volcanic landscapes, see incredible wildlife, and get to know local life as you relax on land each night.

Trip Start: Quito Trip End: Quito

Central & South America

Ultimate Machu Picchu & Galapagos Islands Adventure

ActiveAdventures

Operated by our sister brand Active Adventures

4.74

  • Duration 13 days
  • Activity Level Level 3 
    • Activity Level 3

      Step It Up

      I love an active vacation. Engaging in a challenging activity with a difficult goal, such as reaching a summit, is exactly what I need to unwind in the evenings.

    Read more about the Active Range

This South America bucket-list adventure features biking, hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, and cultural exploration. Discover Peru’s Sacred Valley of the Incas and Machu Picchu and the dynamic wildlife and landscapes of the Galapagos Islands.

Trip Start: Cuzco Trip End: Quito

Hear from our Happy Guests
4.85/5 Rating | 6,500+ Reviews

What guests are saying about their Galapagos vacation

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Ultimate Machu Picchu & Galapagos Islands Adventure - October 2023

Outstanding vacation!

"For those who enjoy hiking and adventure it's a fantastic way to see Peru and Ecuador. The guides were truly outstanding, and the hotel accommodations were fantastic. We moved around a lot, and almost every hotel room had a fantastic view. We learned a lot about the history and culture, while also taking in beautiful sites and views. And learned so much about what makes The Galapagos Islands so unique and amazing. And about all the wildlife that inhabits these regions.

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"For those who enjoy hiking and adventure it's a fantastic way to see Peru and… read more

"For those who enjoy hiking and adventure it's a fantastic way to see Peru and Ecuador. The guides were truly outstanding, and the hotel accommodations were fantastic. We moved around a lot, and almost every hotel room had a fantastic view. We learned a lot about the history and culture, while also taking in beautiful sites and views. And learned so much about what makes The Galapagos Islands so unique and amazing. And about all the wildlife that inhabits these regions. read less

5 Stars (61 reviews)

A Allen | October 2023

Ultimate Galapagos Islands Adventure - July 2023

Best Trip of their life - Fantastic time!

"Pepo was fantastic, Galakiwi was wonderful and knowledgeable, we enjoyed every activity and the food was fantastic. Loved the snorkeling every day! Even our 16-year-old had a great time and didn't want to leave as we had a great mix of ages on the trip. The beaches and accommodations were beautiful and loved getting to know the people along the way. The trip ran really smoothly and seamlessly, a definite trip of a lifetime!

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"Pepo was fantastic, Galakiwi was wonderful and knowledgeable, we enjoyed every activity and the food… read more

"Pepo was fantastic, Galakiwi was wonderful and knowledgeable, we enjoyed every activity and the food was fantastic. Loved the snorkeling every day! Even our 16-year-old had a great time and didn't want to leave as we had a great mix of ages on the trip. The beaches and accommodations were beautiful and loved getting to know the people along the way. The trip ran really smoothly and seamlessly, a definite trip of a lifetime! read less

5 Stars (495 reviews)

L Laura | July 2023

Ultimate Galapagos Islands Adventure - July 2023

Trip of a Lifetime!

"This was my first solo trip in over 20 years and I could not have asked for a better experience! I loved being able to see a new part of the world while still feeling safe. Active took care of all of the planning so that I could focus on a life-changing experience. One of the best decisions I've ever made!

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"This was my first solo trip in over 20 years and I could not have… read more

"This was my first solo trip in over 20 years and I could not have asked for a better experience! I loved being able to see a new part of the world while still feeling safe. Active took care of all of the planning so that I could focus on a life-changing experience. One of the best decisions I've ever made! read less

5 Stars (495 reviews)

J Jennifer | July 2023

Ultimate Galapagos Islands Adventure - July 2023

An adventure of a lifetime

"Our family, my husband, my two college-age children and myself, will be talking about this trip for the rest of our lives. Everything was amazing! The accommodations and staff, the restaurants and food, the snorkeling and the equipment, the boat captains and first hands, the ANIMALS, the biking, the kayaking, and above everything else, our guide, Pepo, could not have been better. We learned so much about the geography, history, culture and wildlife. This trip was worth every penny. Thank you, thank you, thank you! I left a piece of my heart in the Galapagos Islands.

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"Our family, my husband, my two college-age children and myself, will be talking about this… read more

"Our family, my husband, my two college-age children and myself, will be talking about this trip for the rest of our lives. Everything was amazing! The accommodations and staff, the restaurants and food, the snorkeling and the equipment, the boat captains and first hands, the ANIMALS, the biking, the kayaking, and above everything else, our guide, Pepo, could not have been better. We learned so much about the geography, history, culture and wildlife. This trip was worth every penny. Thank you, thank you, thank you! I left a piece of my heart in the Galapagos Islands. read less

5 Stars (495 reviews)

g gregory | July 2023

Ultimate Galapagos Islands Adventure - June 2023

Lindy Huber

"I can barely imagine a trip that would be more FUN, interesting, beautiful and seamlessly run than the Ultimate Galapagos adventure! There was obviously so much thought put into the timing, safety, comfort and excitement of each and every element of the trip. The food and accommodations were perfect, and everything was explained so well each day according to the “Superplan” of our fabulous guide, Pepo. His knowledge of the islands, flora and fauna was impressive, and his personal experience made it all extra-interesting. He was very warm, and his English was impeccable.
A lot was packed into each and every day, because there was such minimal time waiting around for transportation, food, etc. We truly felt like royalty. All of the drivers, boat captains, dive master and wonderful assistant guide, Paulo, were so friendly and helpful. They set a positive, fun tone that our entire travel group enjoyed!
We booked this trip very last-minute, and all of the Active Adventures staff was super helpful in making sure that we knew exactly what to expect, answering…

read more

"I can barely imagine a trip that would be more FUN, interesting, beautiful and seamlessly… read more

"I can barely imagine a trip that would be more FUN, interesting, beautiful and seamlessly run than the Ultimate Galapagos adventure! There was obviously so much thought put into the timing, safety, comfort and excitement of each and every element of the trip. The food and accommodations were perfect, and everything was explained so well each day according to the “Superplan” of our fabulous guide, Pepo. His knowledge of the islands, flora and fauna was impressive, and his personal experience made it all extra-interesting. He was very warm, and his English was impeccable.
A lot was packed into each and every day, because there was such minimal time waiting around for transportation, food, etc. We truly felt like royalty. All of the drivers, boat captains, dive master and wonderful assistant guide, Paulo, were so friendly and helpful. They set a positive, fun tone that our entire travel group enjoyed!
We booked this trip very last-minute, and all of the Active Adventures staff was super helpful in making sure that we knew exactly what to expect, answering questions, etc. Thank you, thank you, for a trip of a lifetime, we hope to travel with you again someday! read less

5 Stars (495 reviews)

M Melinda | June 2023

Ultimate Galapagos Islands Adventure - June 2023

As they’re name says, it is an “Active Adventure”

"This was our first trip with Active adventures. They are extremely organized and very professional. Our guid Pepo was amazing as well as the assistant guide Paulo. You could tell that they had years of experience in the most efficient way to move our personal items. The food choices and restaurants were great with no complaints. My main takeaway was they are very active, get up early and keep moving, but into get everything in that is what it takes. If there was a tour or something you didn’t want to do just stir it out. Bottom line is Active Adventures did a great job.

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"This was our first trip with Active adventures. They are extremely organized and very professional.… read more

"This was our first trip with Active adventures. They are extremely organized and very professional. Our guid Pepo was amazing as well as the assistant guide Paulo. You could tell that they had years of experience in the most efficient way to move our personal items. The food choices and restaurants were great with no complaints. My main takeaway was they are very active, get up early and keep moving, but into get everything in that is what it takes. If there was a tour or something you didn’t want to do just stir it out. Bottom line is Active Adventures did a great job. read less

5 Stars (495 reviews)

P Paul | June 2023

Ultimate Galapagos Islands Adventure - June 2023

AMAZING trip to the Galapogos!

"Our trip to the Galapagos was AMAZING to say the least. Going through Active Adventures was the best way to experience the Galapagos. Being able to be immersed in the culture of the islands to include the food, people and wildlife was the way to go. The amount of wildlife we saw far exceeded any previous expectations. The snorkeling experiences were off the chart also and our guides were very knowledgeable, caring and helpful in learning about the life on the islands.

read more

"Our trip to the Galapagos was AMAZING to say the least. Going through Active… read more

"Our trip to the Galapagos was AMAZING to say the least. Going through Active Adventures was the best way to experience the Galapagos. Being able to be immersed in the culture of the islands to include the food, people and wildlife was the way to go. The amount of wildlife we saw far exceeded any previous expectations. The snorkeling experiences were off the chart also and our guides were very knowledgeable, caring and helpful in learning about the life on the islands. read less

5 Stars (495 reviews)

C Cori | June 2023

Ultimate Galapagos Islands Adventure - June 2023

Unforgettable adventure

"The Galapagos had been on our travel radar for years because of our interest in nature and conservation. Having already done a trip with Austin Adventures to Bryce and Zion, it was a no brainer for us to go with Active Adventures to the Galapagos. Besides the obvious incredible wildlife and nature, what really sets this trip apart is the local guide, Pepo. His knowledge, experience, and welcoming personality enrich this trip in ways that cannot be overstated. Doing a land-based tour was also a plus, as we were able to experience local culture and meet and support Galapagueños. Don't think twice about this trip, you will love it.

read more

"The Galapagos had been on our travel radar for years because of our interest in… read more

"The Galapagos had been on our travel radar for years because of our interest in nature and conservation. Having already done a trip with Austin Adventures to Bryce and Zion, it was a no brainer for us to go with Active Adventures to the Galapagos. Besides the obvious incredible wildlife and nature, what really sets this trip apart is the local guide, Pepo. His knowledge, experience, and welcoming personality enrich this trip in ways that cannot be overstated. Doing a land-based tour was also a plus, as we were able to experience local culture and meet and support Galapagueños. Don't think twice about this trip, you will love it. read less

5 Stars (495 reviews)

B Ben | June 2023

Ultimate Galapagos Islands Adventure - June 2023

Dream comes true

"I've wanted to visit Galapagos for years. It finally came true with Active's professional services and tour guide. I absolutely enjoyed all the activities (biking, hiking, kayaking and snorkeling) in this tour and learnt a lot from the local guide, Pepo.

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"I've wanted to visit Galapagos for years. It finally came true with Active's professional services… read more

"I've wanted to visit Galapagos for years. It finally came true with Active's professional services and tour guide. I absolutely enjoyed all the activities (biking, hiking, kayaking and snorkeling) in this tour and learnt a lot from the local guide, Pepo. read less

5 Stars (495 reviews)

B Bingli | June 2023

Classic Galapagos Islands Adventure - June 2023

GalaKiwi Active Adventures

"This trip was amazing. We saw so many unique animals up close. Our group was small and our guide was beyond helpful.

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"This trip was amazing. We saw so many unique animals up close. Our group was… read more

"This trip was amazing. We saw so many unique animals up close. Our group was small and our guide was beyond helpful. read less

5 Stars (2 reviews)

R Rebecca | June 2023

Ultimate Galapagos Islands Adventure - May 2023

Active Adventures surpassed my expectations in the Galapagos

"My trip to Galapagos with Active Adventures in late May 2023 was simply exceptional. The group was led by two wonderful and very knowledgeable guides (and their behind-the-scenes support team!). I had some high expectations to see some exotic wildlife - and, sure enough, I saw (nearly) everything I had "on my list"! If you've seen the images on NatGeo or documentaries with the Galapagos reptiles, fish, birds, mammals and then dreamt about seeing them with your own eyes... you will certainly see them on this Active Adventures tour! Being a land-based tour, there are more opportunities to explore the islands than being on a boat. For instance, after a day's official tour and before dinner, you can do a small hike along a beach to a salt-water lagoon where you can find flamingos. Or, you can take a swim at the local beach. Or, maybe just rest at the hotel. I'm glad there were numerous options which people could take after the official daily tours concluded. The lodging options were, generally-speaking, pretty good and most had air-con and modern conveniences. Each day's lunch and dinner menus had very good…

read more

"My trip to Galapagos with Active Adventures in late May 2023 was simply exceptional. … read more

"My trip to Galapagos with Active Adventures in late May 2023 was simply exceptional. The group was led by two wonderful and very knowledgeable guides (and their behind-the-scenes support team!). I had some high expectations to see some exotic wildlife - and, sure enough, I saw (nearly) everything I had "on my list"! If you've seen the images on NatGeo or documentaries with the Galapagos reptiles, fish, birds, mammals and then dreamt about seeing them with your own eyes... you will certainly see them on this Active Adventures tour! Being a land-based tour, there are more opportunities to explore the islands than being on a boat. For instance, after a day's official tour and before dinner, you can do a small hike along a beach to a salt-water lagoon where you can find flamingos. Or, you can take a swim at the local beach. Or, maybe just rest at the hotel. I'm glad there were numerous options which people could take after the official daily tours concluded. The lodging options were, generally-speaking, pretty good and most had air-con and modern conveniences. Each day's lunch and dinner menus had very good diversity of options to appease to any dietary needs or desires. I highly recommend this trip to anyone with a keen sense of adventure and wants to explore some truly amazing wildlife! read less

5 Stars (495 reviews)

B BRIAN | May 2023

Ultimate Galapagos Islands Adventure - May 2023

Ultimate Galapagos Islands Advanture

"This trip was wonderful and we would highly recommend. Very well planned and executed. Our guide Pepo was intelligent and knowledgeable and willing to accomodate in any way. We could not decide whether to do a land based trip (as this is with fast boat between islands) or a stay on board trip. We talked to many people doing stay on board and it seems you can't go wrong. There are pros and cons to both so it's all good. Active Adventures lives up to it's name and was full of activity. Meals were really good and lodgings were on islands. Didn't know what to expect but we were very pleased with where we stayed. Highly recommend this trip.

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"This trip was wonderful and we would highly recommend. Very well planned and executed.… read more

"This trip was wonderful and we would highly recommend. Very well planned and executed. Our guide Pepo was intelligent and knowledgeable and willing to accomodate in any way. We could not decide whether to do a land based trip (as this is with fast boat between islands) or a stay on board trip. We talked to many people doing stay on board and it seems you can't go wrong. There are pros and cons to both so it's all good. Active Adventures lives up to it's name and was full of activity. Meals were really good and lodgings were on islands. Didn't know what to expect but we were very pleased with where we stayed. Highly recommend this trip. read less

5 Stars (495 reviews)

S Sharon | May 2023

Ultimate Galapagos Islands Adventure - May 2023

Ultimate Galapagos

"From beginning to end - this was an awesome adventure! Everything was well coordinated, the accommodations were great, we were well feed, the variety of activities were terrific and I can’t say enough good things about our two guides - Pepo and Paulo!! They were outstanding, went above and beyond my expectations and kept everything running smoothly. Really felt immersed in the local culture. I highly recommend this trip!!

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"From beginning to end - this was an awesome adventure! Everything was well coordinated,… read more

"From beginning to end - this was an awesome adventure! Everything was well coordinated, the accommodations were great, we were well feed, the variety of activities were terrific and I can’t say enough good things about our two guides - Pepo and Paulo!! They were outstanding, went above and beyond my expectations and kept everything running smoothly. Really felt immersed in the local culture. I highly recommend this trip!! read less

5 Stars (495 reviews)

D Douglas | May 2023

Ultimate Galapagos Islands Adventure - May 2023

Galapagos Adventure

"This trip exceeded my expectations. The excursions were well managed to accommodate all participants and the up close encounters with local wildlife (blue footed boobies, tortoises, and sharks) were awesome. We also became quick friends with our travel companions (and guides) which made for a super enjoyable trip and created memories to last a lifetime.

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"This trip exceeded my expectations. The excursions were well managed to accommodate all participants… read more

"This trip exceeded my expectations. The excursions were well managed to accommodate all participants and the up close encounters with local wildlife (blue footed boobies, tortoises, and sharks) were awesome. We also became quick friends with our travel companions (and guides) which made for a super enjoyable trip and created memories to last a lifetime. read less

5 Stars (495 reviews)

D Douglas | May 2023

Ultimate Galapagos Islands Adventure - April 2023

In Love with Galapagos

"We chose Active Adventures because we wanted to maximize our time on land in hopes of seeing as much wildlife as possible. It did not disappoint! We saw everything we wanted to see and fell in love with the Galapagos. We enjoyed all of the planned activities, but still had time to explore on our own. We did not want to leave and are already talking about when we can go back.

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"We chose Active Adventures because we wanted to maximize our time on land in hopes… read more

"We chose Active Adventures because we wanted to maximize our time on land in hopes of seeing as much wildlife as possible. It did not disappoint! We saw everything we wanted to see and fell in love with the Galapagos. We enjoyed all of the planned activities, but still had time to explore on our own. We did not want to leave and are already talking about when we can go back. read less

5 Stars (495 reviews)

J Jessica | April 2023

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Secure Your Spot Now, Pay the Rest Later

As members of the Active Adventures family, Austin Adventures offers booking assurance that allows you to secure your spot with a deposit now and pay the rest later. Plus, if your plans change or you can’t travel, you can transfer your booking or request a refund on any additional funds paid (less deposit) up to 90 days from your original trip start date.  

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FAQs about visiting the Galapagos Islands

How many days do you need in the Galapagos?

We recommend a minimum of 5 days to visit the Galapagos Islands. Considering you need to fly in and out or take a 3-day boat journey, you will want to make the most of it! The Galapagos Islands occupy an area of 45,000 square kilometres over 21 islands (13 of those form the 'major islands'.)

Are the Galapagos safe to visit?

While the Galapagos & Ecuador are pretty safe places, we recommend taking the same precautions you would anywhere else - just to be on the safe side! Pickpockets occasionally operate in areas where visitors are found so we suggest you leave any valuables you don’t need with you in the hotel safe (e.g. passports and credit cards). A copy of your passport and any valuables you do need with you should be kept in a passport wallet under your clothes and a small amount of money in your pocket/purse. It’s also a good idea to take a taxi after dark rather than walk.

How long is the boat ride from Ecuador to Galapagos?

It takes 3 days to reach the Galapagos Islands via boat. That's why our tours fly from Quito. 

Where are the Galapagos Islands?

The Galapagos Islands are a unique and remote set of islands located around 800 kilometres (500 miles) off the coast of Ecuador in the Pacific Ocean. The area was declared a Marine Reserve in 1986, as it is home to so many unique species. There are 7 major oceanic currents that assemble in the Galapagos marine ecosystem, making it a mecca for a mixture of wildlife - 17% of Galapagos fish species are endemic to the islands.

How do you get around the Galapagos Islands?

Your transport will be a mixture of bus, plane, boat, bike and your very own two feet on our trips in the Galapagos. You'll spend most time on a boat in the Galapagos Islands as you make your way from island to island during the day. We have domestic flights included in our Galapagos Islands trips to shorten our travel times and to ensure you have the best experience possible. All your transport is included from the start of your trip and we'll drop you at the airport at the end. The details are all listed in the trip specific itineraries.

Where do you stay in the Galapagos Islands?

The Galapagos islands are located in a unique and remote part of the world, and to maintain an ecofriendly relationship with the environment, large modern hotels aren’t built. We prefer to stay in locally owned accommodation, which can be fairly rustic, to give you a better opportunity to meet the locals and gain a real understanding of life in the islands. We’re also lucky to be able to stay on land every night of the trip where as some operators aren’t permitted to do this.

Can I go diving and snorkelling in the Galapagos Islands?

Wetsuits are provided for diving and snorkeling – SCUBA is recommended for experienced divers only because of strong swells and currents. Snorkeling is equally as good. The diving option includes two dives (additional fee applies). Diving is “subject to conditions” for visibility and we have a qualified dive master on the trip.

Do I need a visa to visit the Galapagos Islands and Ecuador?

It is your responsibility stay up to date on the latest visa and entry requirements for your destination. Please use the CIBT entry tracker on our website as a guideline or visit the relevant immigration webpage for more information regarding this.

Do I need vaccinations to visit Ecuador and the Galapagos?

For the most up-to-date recommendations please check with your doctor or travel clinic, and always go with their recommendations, as these can often change. We strongly recommend that you see a doctor, preferably one with experience in travel medicine, at least 8 weeks before your trip starts to discuss appropriate vaccinations.

Can you help me find international flights to Ecuador?

Our preferred Travel Partner Fuzion Travel can assist with you with flights and other travel arrangements. Let them know your preferred travel plans, including any stopovers or extra nights’ accommodation, and they’ll put everything in place for you. They offer a total travel solution and five star service that you’ll want to tell your friends about!

What's included on your Galapagos trips?

Accommodation

In Ecuador mainland you'll stay in hotels and jungle lodges, and on the Galapagos Islands you'll stay on dry land, meaning you're free to walk around each evening and get to know the residents of these famous isles.

Transport

Your transport will be a mixture of bus, plane, boat, bike and your very own two feet on our trips in the Galapagos. You'll spend most time on a boat in the Galapagos Islands as you make your way from island to island during the day. We have domestic flights included in our Galapagos Islands trips to shorten our travel times and to ensure you have the best experience possible. All your transport is included from the start of your trip and we'll drop you at the airport at the end. The details are all listed in the trip specific itineraries.

Meals

All your meals are included as described in the itinerary except on your free days. We have found that people enjoy checking out what is on offer by themselves sometimes, so you can go and see what's out there! On every other day and especially after any long hikes, we've chosen places to eat that can cater for our hearty appetites, work well with our small groups (they know we are coming) and provide us with an authentic destination specific culinary experience. There are always options for you, so you can either be brave or choose something more familiar. On the hiking portion of our trips (such as on the Inca Trail) we work with an outstanding team of cooks who will amaze you with what they can produce on a campsite miles from the nearest town. You can be assured that on all our trips we will make sure you are very well fed.

Trip leaders

Our trips are all led by an experienced Trip Leader. Our Trip Leaders are very proud to work with Active Adventures and often lead our trips for many years, for which we are very lucky and very grateful as it means we're able to consistently offer a fantastic level of service. They work closely with our local specialist guides to provide you with a seamless, fun, exciting and memorable trip. They will happily share with you as much or as little as you want to know about the history, culture, social aspects and lifestyle of the country you are visiting. In the Galapagos Islands you will be accompanied by a specialist Nature Guide, qualified to provide you with plenty of information about the species that make their home on the islands.

What kind of clothing should I be packing?

Once you've booked your trip, you'll have access to a gear list in your portal on exactly what to bring along. The gear list is carefully thought out to provide you with everything you need to be warm and happy, or cool and relaxed, whatever the weather! So it is best to bring everything we recommend along, if you don't bring everything you need, we can't guarantee your comfort.

Do I need hiking boots or are hiking sneakers okay?

If you have good ankles that will be able to cope pretty well with varied terrain, then good hiking shoes or sneakers should be fine, but if not then hiking boots will give you better support.

What is the food like in the Galapagos?

Ecuadorian base ingredients are usually combinations of chicken, fish, shrimp, corn, potato, quinoa, rice and seasonal fruit. If you’re vegetarian or vegan your options may be more limited. Vegetarians should ask for un plato vegetarian (a vegetarian dish). Vegan choices may be limited though we’ll do our best to help find things you may like.

What if I need a special diet?

We are accustomed to catering to the following special diets:

  • vegan (no meat or animal products)
  • vegetarian (no meat products)
  • fishatarian (vegetarian, and eat fish)
  • no red meat (eat chicken & fish)
  • gluten intolerant (no wheat, rye, barley or oats)
  • lactose intolerant (no dairy products)

You will get the opportunity to specify your particular requirements when you fill in our pre-trip questionnaire. If you have any other dietary requirements please let us know well in advance, via email or the online questionnaire.

What is the currency in Ecuador/Galapagos?

The currency of Ecuador is the US dollar (USD)

How much spending money should I bring and where do I get local currency?

Your trip fare includes all transportation, guiding, meals and activities (except any optional activities). We recommend bringing around US$100-200 with you, and have the option to withdraw more if required. 

ATMs are a convenient way of getting cash in Ecuador. In cities they are readily available but in smaller towns they may occasionally be out of order. 

Credit cards can be a great back up in Ecuador in larger establishments, but may not be accepted in smaller places. Visa and MasterCard are the most widely accepted, whereas AMEX is less readily accepted. 

What altitude will we be at in the Galapagos?

Quito is located at 2,850m (9,350 feet) and the highest elevation reached in the Galapagos is 1,000m (3,300 feet). If you’re concerned about the altitude on your arrival into Quito, chat to your doctor about a Diamox prescription or consider taking alternative treatments of ginkgo or Oxyshot/Oxishot.

What language do they speak in Galapagos?

Spanish is the main language of Ecuador with English being spoken in some hotels, airports and tourist areas but not everywhere. Your Active Adventures South America trip leader will be there to translate for you in most scenarios though it’s worth learning a few basic Spanish phrases before hand!

What time zone is Ecuador and the Galapagos in?

The Galapagos & Ecuador are in the Peru/Ecuador Standard Time. It is -5 hours behind of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

What type of plugs and voltage do you use in the Galapagos & Ecuador?

Ecuador operates on a 110V AC system and uses the same type of plug as the USA (two vertical prongs side by side)

Will I have access to internet/WiFi?

WiFi is available almost everywhere in cities and easy enough to find in most towns/villages so you can rely on having regular access during your trip. If you have data roaming switched on, then you'll be able to use the internet on your smartphone, but beware of the fees! WiFi is available at some of the accommodations that you'll be staying at, usually for a small cost so check this out at each location when you arrive, though it may be sporadic.

What is the weather like in the Galapagos?

There are two main weather seasons in Ecuador – the rainy season and the dry season - but these vary depending on your region, as the unique geography means the weather can be very localized, and the temperature will change with your elevation. There are four main geographical areas of Ecuador as follows.
Galapagos: The islands have two distinct seasons. The warm/wet season from January to June, where there can be strong but short periods of rain, but it’s generally sunny and warm. The cool/dry season which lasts from July to December when water temperatures can be chillier and a misty precipitation known as garúa surrounds the highlands. From July to October the seas can be a little rougher, so if you’re prone to sea sickness bring some ginger tablets or something similar.
Highlands/Quito: The climate here is often described as one of ‘perpetual spring’, with warm days and chilly nights and little variation of temperature around the year. June to September is the dry season here, with the wetter months being December to March. Higher altitudes mean average temperatures are very cool, especially at night. Rain can happen in any season, so quality rain gear is essential.

What is El Niño?

Every three to seven years, for a period of anything from 6-18 months, the normal climatic pattern is dramatically disrupted. There is no 'sea of confusion' about temperature zones when El Niño swells into Galapagos waters. The sea becomes uniformly tropical, which for most creatures reliant on phytoplankton-rich oceans is a catastrophe of dire proportions. The cool Cromwell and Humboldt currents that nourish life vanish, replaced by warm, clear waters that are almost entirely devoid of phytoplankton. Starvation hits whole populations, often whole species, with astonishing mortalities. In the last 40 years there have been 5 big El Niño events in the Galapagos, the last one in 1997-8.

What books could I read to learn more about Galapagos?

Here’s our list of recommended books to read before your trip with us and also great books to bring with you!

  • 'Charles Darwin Slept here' by John Woram - The book focuses on the human history of the Galapagos Islands, all the way from a to z.
  • 'Birds, Mammals, and Reptiles of the Galapagos Islands: An Identification Guide' by Andy Swash - Simple, easy to use pocket field guide with excellent photos for identifying species throughout the archipelago. Encompasses all the birds, mammals and reptiles that a visitor might encounter.
  • 'The Galapagos: A Natural History' by Henry Nicholls - Great book to read prior to visiting the Galapagos. Provides general and useful information regarding the history, geology, fauna, flora and conservation of the islands
  • 'Volcanic Galapagos Volcanico' by Theofilos Toulkeridis - The true rock star! Animals aside, Galapagos is a wonderland for geologists. Theo makes geology (with a focus on vulcanology) fun and easy to comprehend. Colorful images and plenty of photos, this book explains the unique geology of every island.
  • 'The Beak of the Finch' by Jonathon Weiner - while the book focuses on the field studies done by the Grants (Peter and Rosemary Grant), Weiner updates the history of the idea of evolution, examining it from its inception with Darwin all the way to the modern-day DNA era The book focuses on the meticulous study of over 20 generations of finches by the grants.
  • 'Flowering Plants of the Galapagos' by Conley K. McMullen - Botany of the Galapagos made simple. This is a great guide of the Galapagos flora, covering endemic, native and exotic plants with a detailed explanation of each species. Conveniently gives a list of plants likely to be seen at popular tourist sites. The introductory bit not only assists readers in knowing where to find specific plants but also provides insight about the ecology of the plants. Beautiful photos accompany the text as well
  • 'Reef Fish Identification: Galapagos' by Paul Humann - The best companion guide for snorkellers (keep in mind that non-snorkellers can use our glass-bottom boat) that are looking to marvel at the fascinating underwater creatures of the Galapagos. As an added bonus, the book also details the ranges and depths at which the fish are likely to be found. Definitely a must-have for all those willing to check out the underwater life of the Galapagos.

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