Galapagos Islands living museum nature unique encounters discoveries crystal-clear waters marine iguanas black lava rocks sea lions sea turtles vibrant fish underwater world Darwin trails revolutionary ideas explorer scientists rare species conservation singular place Earth
The Galapagos Islands are a living museum of nature, where every moment is filled with unique encounters and discoveries. Imagine yourself gliding over crystal-clear waters, surrounded by marine iguanas. Around you, mesmerizing beaches are dotted with black lava rocks, and sea lions, completely unafraid of humans, lounge nearby.
Dive into the pristine waters to witness remarkable sea turtles and vibrant fish that paint the underwater world with their dazzling colors. Walk the trails once trodden by Darwin himself, and explore the revolutionary ideas that shaped the course of science.

Feel like an explorer as you join scientists in their efforts to protect rare species that make the Galapagos a truly singular place on Earth.
SCHEDULE AND COST:
Travel dates: May 14 – 18, 2027

*This itinerary connects seamlessly with the expeditions to Peru (April 28 – May 5, 2027)

Duration: 5 days / 4 nights

Number of participants: 6 – 11

Price per person (based on double occupancy):

  • 3,190 USD per person for a group of 10–11 participants, or
  • 3,390 USD per person for a group of 8–9 participants, or
  • 3,590 USD per person for a group of 6–7 participants,

Early Bird Discount: 10% off for bookings made before December 14, 2026

Estimated flight cost Guayaquil/Quito – Baltra – Guayaquil/Quito: USD 500 (approx.).
(Flights are purchased independently; we provide consultation and assistance.)

Single occupancy supplement: 680 USD (single occupancy is available throughout the itinerary, the price is subject to change.)


TRAVEL PROGRAM: TOUR TO ECUADOR - GALAPAGOS


Day 1. May 14, 2027 QUITO/GUAYAQUIL – BALTRA ISLAND (GALÁPAGOS) – SANTA CRUZ ISLAND

Flight from Quito or Guayaquil to the Galápagos Islands, arriving at Baltra Airport.
For those already traveling in mainland Ecuador, a transfer will be arranged from the hotel in Quito to the airport.

We land by 10:00 AM and immediately begin our adventure. Upon arrival at Baltra Airport, our guide will meet us, assist with luggage, and accompany us to the shuttle bus. A short 10-minute ride takes us to the Itabaca Channel, which separates Baltra from Santa Cruz Island. After a brief ferry crossing, we’ll continue by private transportation across Santa Cruz Island to the town of Puerto Ayora, where our hotel is located.

As we travel, landscapes shift dramatically—from arid red rocky plains in the north to lush green highlands in the south. En route to the hotel, we’ll stop in the highlands of Santa Cruz to explore the island’s agricultural zones and unique flora and fauna, including the iconic Darwin’s finches. We’ll have the rare opportunity to observe giant Galápagos tortoises in their natural habitat and learn how local farms contribute to the conservation of their environment.
We’ll also explore ancient lava tunnels—formed by cooling lava flows descending from volcanoes—some of which stretch all the way to the coast. While some tunnels have collapsed, others remain intact and are accessible for a 30-minute guided walk.

Lunch is included and will be served before we check in at the Ikala Galápagos Hotel 4* in Puerto Ayora. In the afternoon, we’ll relax at Tortuga Bay, a pristine white-sand beach famous for its tranquility and wildlife. We may spot marine iguanas, reef sharks, and sea turtles, and enjoy some snorkeling. The trail to the beach offers views of migratory birds and an immersion in the serene natural surroundings. Evening at leisure and overnight at Ikala Galápagos Hotel 4*.

Meals included: Lunch/lunch-boxes
Accommodation included: Ikala Galápagos Hotel 4* or similar

Recommended flights to Baltra on May 14:

LATAM Chile flight from Quito at 06:51 AM, arriving in Baltra at 09:25 AM
Or any other flight arriving in Baltra no later than 10:00 AM. For arrivals after 10:00, an individual transfer can be arranged at an additional cost.



Day 2. 15 May 2027. SEYMOUR ISLAND & BACHAS BEACHES

Early in the morning, a bus takes us to the Itabaca Channel, where our yacht is already waiting. One hour across open water — and ahead of us appears Seymour Norte Island, one of the most wildlife-dense patches of land in the entire archipelago.
We land directly on a rocky shore, where a sparse grove of palo santo clings to the edge — silver, almost otherworldly trees stripped of all leaves. From the very first steps, this place feels like another planet — in the best possible way.

Seymour is famous for its bird colonies, and it immediately becomes clear why. Frigatebirds are everywhere: males inflate their bright scarlet throat sacs to the size of a human head to attract females. The effect is both absurd and magnificent. Blue-footed boobies perform their ritual dances right beside them — solemnly lifting one vivid turquoise foot and beginning their carefully choreographed courtship. If you’ve ever wanted to observe bird romance from arm’s length, this is the place.

The walk continues along a coastal trail with low cliffs: sea gulls, pelicans, marine iguanas, and of course sea lions — the most unapologetically relaxed residents of the archipelago, completely unbothered by human presence.

Lunch is freshly prepared and served on board the yacht.
As the meal settles and the Galápagos sun begins to lower, the yacht sets course north toward Santa Cruz Island. Bachas Beach welcomes us first with flamingos feeding in a shallow lagoon, and then with a completely wild, untouched shoreline of white coral sand and surreal turquoise water that looks unreal even in person. Snorkeling here is its own story: sea turtles, rays, tropical fish, and sometimes curious sea lions accompany you just beneath the surface.
Around 16:00 we return to Puerto Ayora. The rest of the evening is yours — the pier, local shops, or a sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation included: Ikala Galápagos Hotel 4* or similar


Day 3. May 16, 2027 SANTA CRUZ ISLAND – ISABELA ISLAND

At 7:00 AM, after breakfast, we take a 2.5-hour boat transfer to Isabela Island. Upon arrival, we’ll transfer to Cormorant Beach House 3*, a beachfront hotel located on Playa Puerto Villamil. This wild, scenic beach is ideal for sunbathing and swimming. Its eastern end serves as a marine nesting ground, and toward the far end, dozens of marine iguanas can often be seen resting on the rocks.

After a short break, we’ll try on our snorkeling gear in preparation for the day’s aquatic activities. For those who prefer a slower pace, Concha de Perla offers a relaxing spot for wildlife viewing. This picturesque bay teems with colorful fish, sea urchins, sea lions, and turtles. Afterward, we return to the hotel.

Lunch will be served at a local restaurant featuring regional cuisine.
In the afternoon, we’ll visit Las Tintoreras, a small islet south of Puerto Villamil nestled in a turquoise bay. It’s home to sea lions, marine iguanas, sea turtles, and rays. The highlight here is a channel where reef sharks rest and can be easily spotted during a short walk across solidified lava fields. Return to the hotel for a peaceful evening.

Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation included: Cormorant Beach House or similar


Day 4. May 17, 2027 SIERRA NEGRA VOLCANO TREK – LOS TUNELES SNORKELING ADVENTURE

Early in the morning, after breakfast, we gear up for a day of exploration: hiking shoes, waterproof ponchos, jackets, sunblock, water, and hats are all essential. Cameras should be packed in plastic bags for protection against possible rain—weather in the highlands can be unpredictable. We’ll take a 35-minute drive (by bus or van, depending on group size) to the Galápagos National Park checkpoint, 22 kilometers from Puerto Villamil. From here begins our trek. The hike is approximately 3–4 kilometers round trip (about 2 hours in total), with a steady but gentle incline—suitable even for those new to hiking. Optional horseback riding is available for an additional fee.

Our goal is the massive Sierra Negra Volcano crater, measuring nearly 9 kilometers in diameter and 100 meters deep, making it the second-largest volcanic crater in the world. The view is simply breathtaking. After the hike and return to town, we board a speedboat for a 45-minute journey to one of the archipelago’s most iconic sites—Los Tuneles.

This otherworldly marine landscape features a labyrinth of lava arches and tunnels both above and below the surface. We begin with a short boat tour of this natural wonder before snorkeling in the surrounding waters. Here, we can encounter vibrant fish, rays, sea turtles, and even Galápagos penguins, sharing the waters with sea lions in a one-of-a-kind marine encounter.

Please note: the Los Tuneles tour is subject to sea conditions — your safety and comfort are our top priorities. Evening at leisure.

Meals included: Breakfast or breakfast boxes, Lunch or lunch boxes
Accommodation included: Cormorant Beach House or similar


Day 5. May 18, 2027 ISABELA ISLAND – SANTA CRUZ ISLAND – BALTRA AIRPORT

05:30 AM – Early morning transfer to the dock.
2.5-hour speedboat ride to Santa Cruz Island.
Upon arrival – 1-hour transfer to Baltra Airport (with driver only, no guide).
Check-in for your return flight to Quito or Guayaquil.

Meals included:
Accommodation included: no

Recommended flights from Baltra on May 18:

Avianca flight at 13:21 PM, arriving in Guayaquil at 16:17 PM
LATAM Chile flight at 11:47 AM, arriving in Guayaquil at 14:38 PM
Or any flight departing from Baltra to Guayaquil or Quito no earlier than 11:45 AM and no later than 2:00 PM on May 18. For departures after 14:00, an individual transfer is available at an additional cost.

Note: The tour operator is not responsible for any changes in the schedules of local airlines after booking. All efforts will be made to minimize disruption to the itinerary. Modifications may occur due to force majeure, changes in domestic flight availability, or use of charter services. Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended to cover any potential risks or inconveniences during the journey.
Cost includes:
  • Accommodation in hotels based on double occupancy
  • Breakfasts throughout the itinerary, as well as other meals as specified in the program
  • Transfers and transportation as outlined in the program, including buses and cars with comfortable seating, working air conditioning, and experienced drivers
  • All boats and ferries along the route with skilled captains
  • Activities and excursions specified in the program
  • Entrance fees as per the itinerary
  • All permits for visiting protected areas (including the INGALA migration card for the Galápagos Islands) and national parks (including the fee for Isabela Island in the Galápagos), except for the entrance fee to Galápagos National Park
  • Payment for local guides
  • Services of English-speaking and Spanish-speaking guides, as well as a Russian-speaking and English-speaking team leader throughout the program

Cost excludes (to be additionally paid):

  • International flights to Quito and back from Quito or Guayaquil
  • Domestic flights from Quito to the Galápagos Islands and back from the Galápagos Islands to Quito or Guayaquil
  • Medical insurance
  • Ecuador visa (not required for Russian citizens)
  • Entrance fee to Galápagos National Park ($200 for adults or $100 for children under 12 years old; prices may vary)
  • Meals not specified in the program
  • Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
  • Personal expenses and tips
  • Payment for excess baggage at the airport
  • Early check-in or late check-out at hotels
  • Single occupancy

To take with:

  • 2 or 3 sets of clothing (pants, long-sleeve shirts, t-shirts)
  • Comfortable and practical footwear: 1) lightweight for the city and beach; 2) trekking shoes or closed boots for light trekking
  • Lightweight hiking jacket
  • Fleece
  • Sun hat or cap
  • Rain jacket
  • Swimwear and accessories
  • Snorkel mask and snorkel (optional)
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Personal first aid kit (pain relievers, antiseptics, antibiotics, antivirals, multivitamins, rehydration solutions, and any necessary personal medications)
  • Personal hygiene items
  • Headlamp and spare batteries
  • Hiking backpack (preferably waterproof) with a capacity of around 80 liters, or a travel duffel bag, or a small suitcase
  • A small backpack for personal items and photo/video equipment for day trips
  • Water bottle or hydration flask
  • Mosquito net for sleeping
  • Mosquito repellent
  • Yellow fever vaccination certificate if you have spent more than 10 days in the following countries: Peru, Colombia, Bolivia, and Brazil
  • Waterproof case for documents
  • Photo and video equipment
  • Power bank
KEY FEATURES:
Ecuador. Galapagos Islands. Peru

Best season: all year round
TOUR TO ECUADOR, GALAPAGOS AND PERU
Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

See the Sacred Valley of the Incas and the Rainbow Mountains of Palccoyoc

Live in the Huaorani tribe in the Napo River Basin of the Ecuadorian Amazon

Explore the fauna and flora of Yasuni National Park

Galapagos Islands – it is a place which is not spoiled by man, a real paradise for a naturalist or scuba diver

Snorkeling with turtles, sharks, sea lions, penguins stingrays and other animals

Volcanoes of Cotopaxi and Quilotoa

The famous swing over the abyss in Banos

The amazing Inca cities of Quito and Cuzco
Why with MZUNGU EXPEDITIONS?
  • UNIQUENESS
    We find the most astonishing places on Earth and speed up to reach them. Our motto is to go ahead of road roller, touch the unique and unknown, before it disappears.
  • ADVENTURISM
    Wherever we go, we look for challenging activities and adventures, filling the journey with absolutely different spirit and emotions. That is why people join us over and over again.
  • SAFETY
    In our trips we pay special attention to safety. All our travels are based on personal experience, equipped with the best gear, involving proved providers and experienced local guides who perfectly know local features.
  • EXPERIENCE
    We have a unique experience of the most offbeat expeditions and ascents, deep knowledge of countries and peoples, and are ready to share it with you. All the expeditions and climbs are tested by Mzungu himself and guided by seasoned team-leaders, guaranteeing exciting traveling and your comfort.
  • REASONABLE PRICE
    All our trips are reach in adventures, with high quality accommodation, transportation and meals included. We do not save on it. Thanks to solid contacts with reliable providers we offer really good prices and high quality.

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