Quito, Ecuador,
Galapagos Islands
Jan 13 – 24, 2026
12 Days/11 Nights
Tour Highlights
- Straddle the Equator
- Snorkle in the Galapagos
- See Giant Turtles and Iguanas that Swim
- Relax on Pristine White Sand at Tortuga Bay
- Go to the Middle of the World 0°- 0°
- Learn to Cook Ecuadorian Food
Tour Limit: 10 Travelers
Minimum Age: 18
Quito, Ecuador, Galapagos Islands
Visiting the Galapagos Islands, and Quito, Ecuador, creates an adventure of a lifetime, offering a unique blend of stunning natural beauty, unparalleled biodiversity, and rich cultural experiences. The Galapagos Islands, an archipelago in the Pacific Ocean, are a living museum and showcase of evolution. Here, you can walk among giant tortoises, snorkel with playful sea lions, and marvel at the diversity of bird species, including the famous blue-footed boobies. The islands’ pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and volcanic landscapes create an otherworldly environment that feels like stepping back in time.
In contrast, Quito, Ecuador’s capital, offers a rich historical and cultural tapestry. Nestled high in the Andes, this UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and stunning views of surrounding volcanic peaks. Straddle the equator and stroll through the cobbled streets of the Old Town, where grand churches, such as the Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús, and bustling plazas provide a glimpse into Ecuador’s colonial past. The city’s lively arts scene, delectable cuisine, and warm, welcoming locals add to the charm, making Quito a perfect complement to the natural wonders of the Galapagos and the Amazon.
Accommodations, 11 Breakfast, 3 Lunches, 2 Dinners, 7 Excursions, Flight to San Cristobal Island, ferry to Santa Cruz Island, flight back to Quito, Airport Transfers.
International airfare (fly round-trip US to UIO (Quito, Ecuador)), any visa fees, gratuities, travel insurance (recommended), INGALA Transit Control Card, Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee, personal expenses.
All travelers are required to have passports with a remaining validity of at least 6 months beyond their travel dates.
There are no visa requirements to visit Ecuador for US passports.
You can find more information at the US State Dept
- INGALA Transit Control Card
The acquisition of the TCC is mandatory to enter the Galapagos Islands. Visitors must go to a booth in the airport with their plane tickets to get the card, which costs $20 (cash only). The card is turned in at the end of the trip. After acquiring the card, you must pass your luggage through a security point where it will be inspected for items not allowed on the islands, such as fruits and vegetables.
- Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee
International travelers are required to pay a National Park entrance fee of US $200* per person to visit the Galapagos Islands. This one-time-only amount helps the Ecuadorian government on the conservancy and protection of this pristine environment.
- Digital submission of Biosafety affidavit
Before December 2024, travelers filled out a paper form during their flight. Now, there is a new and convenient digital process in place for you to complete your affidavit online in just a few minutes by following these simple steps:
- Click here to fill out the form up to 48 hours before your Galapagos flight.
- Provide basic personal and flight details.
- Answer three quick questions about transporting animal or plant products.
- You’ll receive a confirmation code via email; present it upon arrival.
Alternatively, you can scan the QR code available at Quito or Guayaquil airports on the day of your flight and complete the process there.
This automated system makes entry smoother while playing a crucial role in protecting the Galapagos Islands‘ ecosystem.
There are 2 fees required to visit the Galapagos Islands totaling $220 (USD).
- The TCC has to be obtained at the airport on the day of your flight.
- The Galapagos National Park Entrance form and fee can only be filled out and paid at the earliest 48 hours before your flight.
- All travelers are required to have passports with a remaining validity of at least 6 months beyond their travel dates.
- It is recommended to receive Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines especially if you are planning to take tours outside of the cities of Quito (like the Amazon and coastal regions).
- INGALA Transit Control Card
The acquisition of the TCC is mandatory to enter the Galapagos Islands. Visitors must go to a booth in the airport with their plane tickets to get the card, which costs $20 (cash only). The card is turned in at the end of the trip. After acquiring the card, you must pass your luggage through a security point where it will be inspected for items not allowed on the islands, such as fruits and vegetables.
- Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee
International travelers are required to pay a National Park entrance fee of US $200* per person to visit the Galapagos Islands. This one-time-only amount helps the Ecuadorian government on the conservancy and protection of this pristine environment.
Digital submission of Biosafety affidavit
Before December 2024, travelers filled out a paper form during their flight. Now, there is a new and convenient digital process in place for you to complete your affidavit online in just a few minutes by following these simple steps:
- Click here to fill out the form up to 48 hours before your Galapagos flight.
- Provide basic personal and flight details.
- Answer three quick questions about transporting animal or plant products.
- You’ll receive a confirmation code via email; present it upon arrival.
Alternatively, you can scan the QR code available at Quito or Guayaquil airports on the day of your flight and complete the process there.
This automated system makes entry smoother while playing a crucial role in protecting the Galapagos Islands‘ ecosystem.
**Ecuador money tips**
- The US Dollar is the official currency of Ecuador.
- While using the US dollar in Ecuador does make life easier, there are considerations to be aware of as far as Ecuador’s money goes. Cash is still king in the country while credit cards have seen a steady increase in use with the stability of the networks. When on the road or exploring Ecuadorian cities, here are a few things to remember.
- Big bills seldom receive a warm welcome. Taxi drivers, shop keepers, and some cafes/restaurants rarely have change for anything over ten dollars. Even twenty dollar bills are treated like a one hundred bill might be back home. If trying to change a twenty dollar note, stick with big chains like supermarkets or ask ahead of time if using it for a taxi. If you plan to travel with US dollars then try to bring a stash of 5, 10 and 20 notes, and avoid too many 100s.
- Keep a stack of small bills and coins. It is easier than going to three different shops for change while trying to get from one side of town to another. Especially when in small towns and the Galapagos Islands, change is a commodity of its own and one seldom finds a point of sale that is happy to give their bank away.
- ATM debit or bank cards are usually the best choice in Ecuador, and having a backup card is a smart idea just in case your international bank has issues with Ecuador’s bank network. Ecuador ATMs are widespread in major cities and usually accept Visa, Mastercard and other major brands.
- Call your bank and financial institutions before traveling and let them know that you are going to be in Ecuador. Some banks have automatic blocks when cards are used overseas, and getting money can be a challenge if every other transaction is blocked because of a computer flag. If possible, talk to a person before you travel and make sure that there is a note on your account that you are going to be in South America and also have a contact to call if needed.
- Be aware that two-tier authentication systems for online banking don’t always work here on normal phone networks. If you are depending on using online banking while traveling, talk to your phone company about international roaming and data packages.
- Every currency bill or note in Ecuador is of US origin, but Ecuador does mint some of their own coins. Keep an eye out for Ecuadorian coins of 1, 5, 10, 25 and 50 cents – they are the same size as their US counterparts but with different print on them. These coins cannot be used in the United States so try to spend them while you are here in Ecuador.
- There are some fake US dollar bills floating around the economy in Ecuador. Although this is uncommon, do check the bills that are given to you in change, especially from taxi drivers or informal vendors.
ITINERARY (subject to availability)
Arrive in Quito (UIO). Accommodations Hotel Rio Amazonas.*
Included: Airport transfer, accommodations.
Excluded: Gratuities, personal expenses.
* Or similar
Beginning at 9:30 am. (approx. 4 hours)
Quito Cooking Class and Market Tour with a Professional Chef where you will gain the skills to create traditional recipes with a gourmet flair in Quito’s old town.
- Market Tour
Exploring the market in Ecuador is a truly unique experience! You’ll encounter the most delightful aromas, flavors, and vibrant colors of fruits, vegetables, and spices, all of which will help you craft the perfect Ecuadorian meal. You will be guided through the Central Market and its surrounding area, introduced to the top specialty vendors. You’ll meet the vendor with the freshest vegetables, the traditional meat sellers, the lady with the best fruits, the medicinal herb stand, the mote vendor, the flower girl, and an exotic fruit juice stand. The adventure begins with shopping for fresh ingredients and local products, some of which are exclusive to this region.
- Cooking Class
During the cooking class, you’ll meet the chef who will share local secrets and captivating stories of old Quito. You’ll prepare everything from scratch, chopping, dicing, and cooking like a true local.
- Time to Eat
After your hard work in the kitchen, the chef will set a beautiful table, and you’ll get to enjoy your meal in a Colonial house in the heart of Old Town Quito.
Welcome Dinner.
Included: Breakfast, cooking class, dinner.
Excluded: Gratuities, personal expenses.
Sleep in and have a free morning for sightseeing, shopping, or just chilling.
You can walk or take the convenient underground metro for only 45¢ per ride.
Estacion la Pradera (Metro) is the closest to our hotel and only a few minutes’ walk.
You will receive more info about the metro.
Places to Visit:
- Mindalae – Ethnohistoric & Crafts Museum of Ecuador
- Quito Botanical Gardens in Carolina Park
- Historic Old Town
- Casa de la Cultura Museum
- La Mariscal Handicrafts Market
Pick up at 2:00 pm. (approx. 4 hours)
Don´t forget to bring your passport along if you want a special equator stamp in it!
This popular tour takes you to the site of the Equator line (latitude zero). The city of Quito lies just 22km from the equator.
- Enjoy scenic views into Pululahua volcano, the largest inhabited crater in the world.
- Visit the official equator monument (Middle of the world – Mitad del mundo) for your perfect photos with one foot in each hemisphere. Here you will also learn about the important 1736 Geodesic Mission scientific study.
- Perform fascinating Equator scientific tests at Inti Ñan museum, as well as other fun activities.
- Visit Casa Agave to learn about the importance of the agave plant to the ancestral indians that lived in the area, and the process they used to make Miske (tequila).
Included: Breakfast, equator tour, accommodations,
Excluded: Gratuities, personal expenses.
Flight departs Quito at 11:15 am. Arrives San Cristobal at 1:38 pm.
Accommodations at The Eco Hotel Arena Blanca
Free afternoon to explore Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, the capital of the Galapagos province.
IMPORTANT: You must arrive at the Aquaventures Dive Center (Address: Ignacio Hernández, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno), one day before the 360 tour tomorrow for equipment testing between 3:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
Included: Breakfast, accommodations,
Ecluded: Gratuities, personal expenses.
Immerse yourself in an unparalleled adventure that will take you on a complete and fascinating journey through the most iconic destinations in a 360-degree tour. This tour offers you an unparalleled opportunity to explore multiple facets of the wonderful Galápagos Islands. From the richness of marine life to the beauty of beaches and the imposing natural landscapes, every turn will reveal a new perspective of this natural paradise. Get ready for a panoramic experience that will leave you breathless as you explore every corner of this incredible archipelago. 
- Rosa Blanca: Navigation and Snorkeling
- Punta Pitt: Encounter with the Red-footed Booby
- Sardine Bay: Lunch and Beach
- Cerro Brujo: Impressive Geology and Endemic Birds
- Kicker Rock: Unforgettable Snorkeling
- Back to port
Equipment provided: 
Short wetsuit 
Fins 
Snorkel mask.
Tour includes:
- Lunch Life jacket
- Snacks Naturalist Guide
- Drinks Snorkel equipment
- Fruits Water
- Towels
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a water bottle, personal items for your trip.
Included: Breakfast, accommodation, 360° tour including lunch.
Excluded: Gratuities, personal expenses.
Free day to explore, plan your own excursion, do laundry, shop, or just chill.
There are several tour agencies where you can schedule diving and visits to other islands.
The downtown of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, San Cristobal’s “capital” is an amazing place to walk around and be amazed.- You will find literally, everywhere you go dozens of sea lions chilling in front of you, on benches, on the beach, inside stores, and in the middle of the road. They own the place.
- There are also some other special attractions like the Charles Darwin statue with its ship The Beagle, many cafes and restaurants, and a ton of things to do.
Places to visit on San Cristóbal Island: (short hikes)
- Lobos Island – The name of this island means “Sea Lion Island.” This appropriately named island is ripe with noisy, frolicking, jolly sea lions who will welcome you to their home with open, well, fins. This island also offers great snorkeling opportunities as well as the chance to see blue-footed and Nazca boobies.
- Gianni Arismendy Interpretation Center – Visitors enjoy exhibitions on natural history, human history, and conservation.
- David Rodriguez Breeding Center – In the Breeding Center, you will be able to admire the hatchling turtles from their birth until they are 120 days old when the grown turtles are taken to their natural habit.
- Witch Hill – Located on the northern coast, this eroded hill, and its surroundings present one of the most picturesque beaches in the Galapagos with its white powdery sand and the abundance of animals. Wildlife includes sea turtles, rays, and various types of booby birds. The clear water provides an excellent opportunity for enjoying swimming and snorkeling.
- El Junco Lagoon – located about 700 m above sea level, is one of the few permanent freshwater bodies in the Galapagos. Frigate birds are often seen here washing the salt from their feathers as well as white-cheeked pintails and common gallinules. Its name comes from a type of plant that is common in this area called junco.
Included: Breakfast, Accommodations.
Excluded: Gratuities, personal expenses.
Accommodations Hotel Mainao* on Santa Cruz Island.
After the 2-2 ½ hour ferry ride (bring motion sickness medication), relax and have breakfast.
When ready, we will walk about 15 minutes to the Charles Darwin Research Station, the largest and oldest science and conservation organization in Galapagos.
- Charles Darwin Exhibition Hall includes Natural History Collections with Whale Skeletons.
- Take a Photo with Charles Darwin
- Get Your Passport Stamped & Send a Digital Postcard
- Take a Break at the Cafeteria
- Stroll our Native Garden
- Bring home a specially designed, well-made souvenir at our gift shop, and you will have contributed to our mission to protect the Galapagos Islands.
Included: Breakfast, ferry, accommodations, Darwin station.
Not Included: Gratuities, personal expenses.
* Or similar
Galapagos Frontier Giant Tortoise Reserve: We will begin our tour by visiting the giant tortoise reserve, where you will have the opportunity to observe these majestic creatures up close. You will learn about its history, its importance to the Galapagos ecosystem and how its conservation is carried out. You can walk among them and marvel at their size and longevity.- Explore the trails that will take you through the endemic forest, where you will be able to observe a great variety of native birds. In addition, you will be able to walk trails that will take you through exuberant fruit trees.
Lava Tunnels: After visiting the reserve, we will enter the fascinating lava tunnels. These tunnels are unique geological formations that were created millions of years ago during volcanic eruptions. You will walk through underground passages, and you will be able to appreciate the beauty and history that these volcanic formations contain. Don’t forget your flashlight to explore the darkest corners!- Los Gemelos Los Gemelos in Santa Cruz are impressive volcanic craters that were formed due to past volcanic activity. They are two large sinkholes with areas full of vegetation, so it is not allowed to eat in the area or get close to the edges of the crater. The view from this point is impressive, where you can admire the large size of these craters and also observe endemic birds flying freely and the forest vegetation. Don’t miss this incredible natural landscape!
Included: Breakfast, accommodations, tour.
Excluded: Gratuities, personal expenses.
Boat ride of 1 hour and 30 min approximately (can be less or more depending on weather conditions) to Pinzon Island.
One of the best places for snorkeling in Galapagos. Amazing snorkeling with chances of seeing marine turtles, sea lions, rays, white tip sharks, penguins (sometimes), reef fish and beautiful crystalline water. Although snorkeling is the main activity, you’ll also be able to do some fishing during this trip if conditions allow it and if everyone on board wants to participate in this activity. If any fish are caught, the cook on board is able to cook it for you if you wish! And of course, you can release it too if that’s what you prefer.
We will have lunch on board and then will continue the trip towards Las Palmas or La Fe (the place will be decided depending on weather conditions), in one of these places you will be able to relax and if the weather allows it, to disembark and snorkel.
Included: Breakfast, accommodations, snorkel tour, lunch.
Excluded: Gratuities, personal expenses.
Start at 9:00 am. We will hike 2.7 km to Tortuga Bay from our hotel (about a 40 min hike).
Tortuga Bay beach is a pristine natural site and has no tourist facilities. Go prepared with food and water for the day because you will not find shops or cafes once you begin the walking trail. Similarly, Tortuga Bay beach does not have bathrooms or a changing area. There are no beach umbrellas or chairs/loungers for rent.- Things to bring with you: money (for kayak rental), food, drinking water, sun protection, insect repellent, swim gear & beach towel, comfortable walking shoes or sandals & camera.
The Tortuga Bay trailhead starts at the end of Charles Binford Avenue, a few blocks behind the main tourist dock area close to Las Ninfas and Hotel Fiesta. Just follow the path for about a mile and a half (30-45 minutes from the trail head) to arrive. The trail is paved, flat and easy, leading through an old lava field colonized by Palo Santo trees and Opuntia cacti. It is a pleasant walk, accompanied by Darwin’s Finches and Galapagos Mockingbirds flitting between the trees, and the melodic tunes of Yellow Warblers. Don’t forget to look to the ground too, where red throated lava lizards scurry around the dry brush habitat.- Tortuga Bay is an excellent spot to kick back and enjoy the usual types of beach activities but surrounded by the fascinating Galapagos wildlife. It is a good spot to relax and sunbathe, or alternatively to swim, snorkel or take a walk.
- It is important to note that you cannot swim directly from the main beach at Tortuga Bay – this is forbidden due to the strong currents, but you can do so at the nearby cove, which is more sheltered. You can also rent kayaks here and find the boat back to Puerto Ayora (just keep walking down the beach).
A large marine iguana colony calls this beach home, and can easily be spotted catching the sun, or swimming in the ocean. They are the only iguana species on the planet to have learned how to swim and dive to feed on green algae. If you watch closely, you can often observe them sneezing sea salt through their noses.- Colorful Sally Lightfoot Crabs hide in the crevasses of black lava, while Blue footed boobies and pelicans dive for fish. Galapagos sea lions and Green sea turtles are also a common sight in the crystal clear lagoon. Seasonally sea turtles like to nest on the dunes of Tortuga Bay Galapagos. There are pelicans and finches, and in the salt lagoon that backs onto the mangroves there are sometimes flamingos too.
We’ll head back when everyone is ready either by walking or boat.
Included: Breakfast, hike, boat back if decided.
Excluded: Personal expenses.
Flight departs Baltra Island (Santa Cruz) at 10:25 am. Arrives Quito 2:50 pm.
Accommodations Hotel Rio Amazonas.*
Free time to finish sightseeing, shopping, or just chilling.
Farewell dinner.
Included: Breakfast, flight to Quito, accommodations, dinner.
Excluded: Gratuities, personal expenses.
* Or similar
Check out of the hotel and fly home or continue the journey on your own.
Included: Breakfast, airport transfer.
Excluded: Gratuities, personal expenses.