7 Day Galapagos Shared Multisport Tour
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This used to be an 8 day tour, but is now 7 days. . Hike and bike through volcanic landscapes, kayak over crystal seas teeming with marine life and snorkel among extraordinary endemic species.Expand your knowledge and understanding with top naturalist guides and relax in charming hotels that work hard each day to minimize their environmental impact. Enjoy the reassurance of a curated, well thought-out itinerary with activities that don’t require any former experience or training – all you need is your drive to make lasting memories with the people you love.
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DAY 1: SAN CRISTOBAL KAYAK ADVENTURE
After a morning flight from the Ecuadorian mainland to San Cristobal Island, you will arrive at the airport and head to your hotel. You can explore the town and have lunch by yourself. Early in the afternoon, we give you a quick introduction to the island before heading to the coast, where our kayaks will be waiting for us for our first taste of Galapagos magic: we paddle along the coastal bays and coves of San Cristobal’s north coast, a world of comic-looking blue-footed boobies, frigate birds, sea lions and sea turtles. If we’re lucky, we may see rays underwater, marine iguanas perching on lava rocks. Back at the hotel, you’re free to enjoy some island seafood specials in the port of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on your own. (-) DAY 2: SNORKEL THE NORTHERN COAST OF SAN CRISTOBAL A whole day to snorkel amid the underwater wonders of the Galapagos! In the company of our experienced guide as part of a shared group, we search the nearby coves and cliffs for sea turtles, frigate birds, blue-footed boobies, and Nazca boobies. There’s also the chance to get up close and personal with sea lions – the young pups are ever-curious and playful. As we snorkel, we might spot eagle rays, golden rays, Galapagos sharks, starfish, clams, and thousands of tropical fish. With luck, we may even come across hammerhead sharks. As the sun sets on our day under the waves, we return to the hotel for a relaxed evening at the coastal town. (B, Box Lunch). DAY 3: DISCOVER ISABELA’S BEACHES, LAGOONS AND ISLETS After breakfast, we say goodbye to San Cristobal to board our small plane for a thrilling flight across the archipelago’s azure waters and volcanic landscapes to Isabela Island. Amazingly, it is still in the throes of creation, formed by six active shield volcanoes. In fact, Isabela is one of the most volcanically active spots on the planet. Upon arrival, we head to the visitor site known as Tintoreras to explore this beautiful marine world by kayak, weaving between a set of small islets filled with hidden coves and beaches. Here, meet an unexpected denizen of the Tropics: the endemic Galapagos penguin. Spot reef sharks, sea turtles and sea lions as we paddle. Seafood, Ecuadorian and international cuisine are all available in the small beach town of Puerto Villamil and you’re free to try them by yourself. You can grab a quick dip in the ocean, or a swing in a hammock, before our local guest experience coordinator briefs you on your next adventure: a self-guided bike ride through a succession of Isabela’s white sand beaches, mangrove forests and brackish lagoons. The ride is fun and easy, and as ever in Galapagos, there are plenty of birds to spot and wonders to take in. Your evening is free and easy. (B). DAY 4: HIKE ISABELA’S HIGHLANDS From the coast, we join a naturalist guide and shared group to drive up the flanks of the mighty Sierra Negra volcano. Where the road the peters out, we continue on foot. We hike through the intriguing highland ecosystem, which is at times smothered in dreamy clouds. At the top, at the volcano’s rim, a surreal world of geological history unfolds before us, with incredible views of the surrounding volcanoes and ocean, a pristine other-worldly scene to savor. After a break to catch our breath and take in the views, we hike the rim of this enormous crater and, if the group is feeling energetic, continue on to the caldera of Volcan Chico (“little”), a surreal landscape of vibrant hues created by sulphur deposits. Here we can explore spectacular lava formations and even huffing fumaroles of vapor. We return to the lowlands in time to spend our last afternoon on Isabela relaxing on the perfect beaches and soaking up the island-life atmosphere. You are free to have dinner on your own. (B, Box Lunch) DAY 5: CROSS TO SANTA CRUZ FOR A HIKE IN THE HIGHLANDS We leave Isabela early aboard a public speed boat, for our ride east to Santa Cruz Island and Puerto Ayora, the archipelago’s largest settlement. We meet you at the dock and head to the hotel. There’s no time to lose as the famous Galapagos giant tortoises await. We drive up to the highlands where these lumbering creatures heave their way through their natural habitat. It is humbling to walk among these noble giants, true remnants of a lost world. Watch out for frigate birds, egrets, pintail ducks, Darwin’s finches, and the vermillion flycatcher amid this lush, green ecosystem. Our next stop is the incredible lava tunnels, which made ideal hideouts for the pirates who once frequented the Galapagos. Legend has it that they were also used to hide Inca gold stolen from Spanish galleons. Lunch is served at a traditional hacienda in the highlands. If time permits, we can visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and the National Park’s tortoise breeding program back in Puerto Ayora. You’re free to enjoy the port’s array of shops, restaurants and bars in the evening on your own. (B, L). DAY 6: BAY TOUR, SNORKEL AND TORTUGA BAY ADVENTURE A day dedicated to exploring Puerto Ayora’s fascinating natural environment. After breakfast, we join a naturalist guide and shared group to make our way west from the port, stopping by the Lobería where sea lions can be observed. We come to an islet called Punta Camaño, a great place to don our snorkels, masks and fins to meet sea lions and schools of fish. Passing through the romantically-named Canal del Amor, we disembark at Playa de los Perros, where, after a short walk, groups of jet-black marine iguanas bask beneath the sun’s rays, occasionally slipping off into the sea to feed. Following lunch in Puerto Ayora on your own – where there are options aplenty for you to choose from – one of the world’s most beautiful beaches lies a short hike from town: Tortuga Bay. If you feel energetic, at the first beach you come to you can rent a surf board, or at the second beach, a kayak. If you prefer to relax, the second beach is tranquil, hemmed by mangroves and ideal for observing birdlife or going for a swim. Dinner is on your own. (B). DAY 7: TRANSFER OUT Finally, it’s time to bid a fond farewell to the Galapagos. You board a transport to take you north over Santa Cruz Island to the Itabaca Channel. At this point we leave you to continue your journey alone: all that remains is a hop on a ferry and a short bus ride to take you to Baltra Island’s airport. (B) 
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
BOAT TRAVEL TIME: 2 hours ACTIVITY DURATION (PADDLE, HIKE, BIKE, SNORKEL): 2 to 4 hours per activity SEASON: Year-round ALTITUDE: 0 – 3,688 feet (1,124 meters) above sea level WEATHER: During the warm season from January to May, air temperature is around 77 to 83 F (25 to 28 C) at sea level. During the cool season from June to December, air temperature is around 70 to 75 F (21 to 24 C) at sea level. Temperature decreases with altitude. WATER TEMPERATURE: During the warm season from January to May, water temperature hovers around 77 F (25 C). During the cool season from June to December, average water temperature is about 72 F (22 C). Water temperature also varies significantly by location. |
HIGHLIGHTS
2023 Rate per person in US$ in double accommodation:
Hotels:
INCLUDED:
NOT INCLUDED
NOTE: This itinerary is subject to change without notice due to seasonal changes, inclement weather conditions, and adjustments of Galapagos National Park policy. All tours are shared with a group. Please enquire about private tour options. The Weight restriction per person for the Inner Island flight from San Cristobal to Isabela is 25 pounds in one piece of luggage. **In order to further protect the environment of the Galapagos Islands, the Ecuadorian Government has declared a ban against all use of plastic bags, plastic straws, and polyethylene containers. Therefore, all passengers visiting the islands will not be permitted to enter with these products. This measure will be in effect beginning May of 2018. We thank you for helping us protect the pristine Galapagos ecosystem. . 
PACKING LIST
• Hiking Boots for Sierra Negra • Water Shoes • Sunglasses • Sunscreen 75+ • Hat • *Lightweight and quick drying long-sleeved shirts or t-shirts • *Lightweight and quick drying shorts or pants in light colors • Bathing suit • Camera (waterproof camera also recommended) • Reusable Water bottle Special Note: Bright colored clothing can attract unwanted animals and insects, such as wasps as the bright colors look like flowers to these animals. Try to pack light colored clothing such as beige, white, brown, or grey. |
