Galápagos Islands & Quito Adventure Extension

Add an unforgettable chapter to your South American journey with this spectacular Galápagos Islands and Quito extension. From the colonial charm of Ecuador’s highland capital to the magical wildlife encounters of the Enchanted Isles, this journey offers breathtaking scenery, thrilling adventures, and once-in-a-lifetime memories.

Day 1: Welcome to Quito – Gateway to the Enchanted Isles

Arrive in Quito, the highest capital city in the world at 2,850 metres (9,350 feet). Nestled in a dramatic Andean valley, Quito’s historic centre is one of the largest and best-preserved in the Americas, earning UNESCO World Heritage status. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by your English-speaking guide and transferred to your hotel for a well-deserved rest ahead of your adventure.

Day 2: Journey to the Galápagos – Isabela Island Awaits

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to magical Baltra Island in the Galápagos Archipelago. Upon landing, meet your guide and transfer via public speedboat to Puerto Villamil on Isabela Island — the largest and one of the most breathtaking islands. The journey across the ocean takes approximately three hours; prepare with a windbreaker, sunglasses, sunscreen, and seasickness tablets if needed. Upon arrival, check into your boutique beachfront hotel, where the Pacific waves serenade you to sleep.

Important Information: Please purchase your Transit Control Card at Quito Airport ($20, cash only), and pay the Galápagos National Park entrance fee on arrival at Baltra ($200, cash only). Puerto Villamil dock entry fee ($10, cash only) applies.

Day 3: Snorkelling at the Lava Tunnels – A Marine Wonderland

Today, dive into one of the Galápagos’ most iconic sites — Los Tuneles. Formed by ancient lava flows, this marine sanctuary is a snorkeller’s paradise. With your naturalist guide, swim among white-tipped reef sharks, adorable Galápagos penguins, giant Pacific green turtles, and elusive seahorses hiding among the mangroves. Between snorkelling stops, keep an eye out for playful dolphins escorting your boat! (Snorkelling equipment is included; wetsuits available at an extra charge.)

Day 4: Sierra Negra Volcano Hike and Tintoreras Kayaking Adventure

An exhilarating day awaits! After breakfast, board a traditional chiva truck and ascend through five distinct vegetation zones to reach the mighty Sierra Negra Volcano. Trek along the rim of the world’s second-largest volcanic caldera, marvelling at steaming vents and surreal lunar landscapes.

In the afternoon, enjoy a kayaking and snorkelling tour around Tintoreras Islet. Glide above crystal-clear waters, spotting whitetip reef sharks (“Tintoreras”), eagle rays, playful sea lions, and majestic marine iguanas basking in the sun. A truly magical experience close to nature!

Day 5: Explore the Santa Cruz Highlands and Darwin’s Legacy

After breakfast, speedboat back across the Pacific to Santa Cruz Island. Discover the lush highlands of Santa Cruz where ancient lava tunnels and twin volcanic craters await. Meet the legendary Galápagos giant tortoises roaming freely through misty forests and farmland. Lunch is included at a local ranch among these gentle giants.

In the afternoon, visit the world-renowned Charles Darwin Research Station to learn about vital conservation efforts that preserve these extraordinary islands for generations to come.

Important Information: $1 dock fee at Puerto Ayora (cash only).

Day 6: Farewell to the Galápagos – Return to Quito

After breakfast, transfer from your hotel to Baltra Airport for your flight back to Quito. Upon arrival, you will be taken to your comfortable countryside hotel near the airport, allowing you to relax and reflect on your Galápagos adventure.

Important: You must present your Transit Control Card upon return to Quito Airport.

Day 7: Departure

After breakfast, board your transfer to Quito International Airport for your onward journey home, carrying with you extraordinary memories of two of South America’s most enchanting destinations.

What’s Included:

• Airfare: Lima – Quito, Quito – Galápagos – Quito (round trip)
• Transportation: Comfortable land and sea transfers; speedboat between Santa Cruz and Isabela
• Accommodation: Double occupancy at 5-star hotel in Quito and 3+ star boutique hotels in Galápagos
• Meals: 6 breakfasts and 2 lunches
• Activities: Snorkelling at Los Tuneles, hiking Sierra Negra Volcano, kayaking and snorkelling at Tintoreras, visiting Charles Darwin Station, exploring Santa Cruz Highlands
• Gear: Snorkelling mask, fins, life jacket (wetsuits available for an extra charge)

What’s Not Included:

• Single Supplement (if applicable)
• Travel Insurance (mandatory)
• Meals not listed in the itinerary
• Galápagos National Park Fee ($200, cash only)
• Transit Control Card ($20, cash only)
• Dock and pier fees (Puerto Villamil and Puerto Ayora)
• Tips for guides and drivers