5-Day All-Inclusive Galapagos: Isabela and Santa Cruz Island

The Galapagos Islands are a natural treasure, home to a stunning array of wildlife found nowhere else on Earth. This 5-day all-inclusive tour of Isabela and Santa Cruz promises an immersive experience, allowing travelers to witness the islands’ iconic landscapes and encounter their unique inhabitants up close. With expert guidance, comfortable accommodations, and seamless logistics, this small group adventure ensures a personalized and unforgettable journey through one of the world’s most captivating destinations.

Key Points

• This 5-day all-inclusive tour offers a personalized experience exploring the remarkable biodiversity and natural wonders of Isabela and Santa Cruz in the Galapagos, Ecuador.
• The tour includes 4 nights of accommodation, all land and sea transportation, bilingual naturalist guides, meals, snorkel equipment, and transfers.
• Highlights of the tour include the Sierra Negra Volcano, Charles Darwin Research Station, and Concha Perla for snorkeling.
• The tour has an overall rating of 4.0 from 9 reviews, providing a good value through a comprehensive package.
• Exclusions include airfare to/from the Galapagos, park entry fees, and additional expenses like water taxis and gratuities.

Tour Overview

This 5-day all-inclusive tour explores the captivating islands of Isabela and Santa Cruz in the Galapagos, Ecuador.

Focusing on the region’s remarkable biodiversity and natural wonders, the tour visits highlights like the Sierra Negra Volcano, Charles Darwin Research Station, and Concha Perla for snorkeling with sea lions and turtles.

Explore the region’s remarkable biodiversity and natural wonders, including the Sierra Negra Volcano and snorkeling with sea lions and turtles.

Travelers enjoy a personalized experience through small group travel.

With an overall rating of 4.0 from 9 reviews, this tour offers a well-rounded Galapagos adventure.

Inclusions

The tour includes 4 nights of accommodation in the traveler’s choice of hotels, ranging from Economic to First Class.

All land and sea transportation within the Galapagos is provided. Bilingual naturalist guides accompany guests on excursions and activities.

Meals include 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners. Snorkel equipment is included as per the itinerary.

Transfers from Baltra Airport and between islands are also covered.

However, airfare to/from the Galapagos, as well as some fees and extra expenses, aren’t included in the tour price.

Exclusions

Airfare to and from the Galapagos Islands isn’t included in the tour price.

The $200 Galapagos National Park entry fee and the $5 Isabela Dock fee are also not covered.

Travelers must pay the $20 Migratory Control Card fee separately.

Water taxis, which cost $1 per person per ride, are an additional expense.

Soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, and gratuities aren’t included in the package.

The child rate applies only when sharing with two paying adults and isn’t valid for First Class hotel bookings.

Important Information

Departure from Baltra Airport is required, and early arrival (before 11 am) is recommended.

This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions. A moderate physical fitness level is required.

Key information to keep in mind:

1. Late return flight (after 12:30 pm) is suggested on the last day.

2. Passport details are required at booking.

3. Activities may be subject to change based on National Park regulations or unforeseen circumstances.

4. Guides are certified, and feedback is encouraged for service improvement.

Feedback and Recommendations

While reviews on the tour’s accommodations, food quality, and organization have been mixed, travelers often provide suggestions for improvement, such as better airport pickup organization and improved food variety and quality.

Plus, feedback encourages guides to continue improving their services.

It’s important to note that activities may be subject to change based on National Park regulations or unforeseen circumstances.

Pricing

The tour starts from $1,105.78 per person, with the price varying based on group size.

Travelers will also need to pay an additional $205.00 at the destination. It’s important to note the non-refundable cancellation policy.

To provide more value, the pricing includes:

• 4 nights of accommodation in selected class hotels

• All land and sea transportation within Galapagos

• Bilingual naturalist guides for excursions and activities

• Meals: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners

• Snorkel equipment as per itinerary

• Transfers from Baltra Airport and between islands

Exploring Isabela Island

Travelers embark on an exciting exploration of Isabela Island, the largest and one of the most biodiverse islands in the Galapagos archipelago.

They’ll discover the towering Sierra Negra Volcano, one of the world’s largest active calderas. Along the coast, they’ll spot flightless cormorants, marine iguanas, and Galapagos penguins.

At Concha Perla, they’ll snorkel with sea lions and sea turtles. The island’s lush highlands are home to the iconic Galapagos tortoise.

Throughout the journey, a knowledgeable naturalist guide shares insights into the island’s unique flora and fauna. Isabela offers an immersive experience in the Galapagos’ natural wonders.

Discovering Santa Cruz Island

Following the exploration of Isabela Island, the tour then ventures to Santa Cruz, the second-largest island in the Galapagos.

At the Charles Darwin Research Station, visitors can learn about the island’s unique biodiversity and the ongoing conservation efforts.

The Charles Darwin Research Station offers insights into Santa Cruz’s biodiversity and the ongoing efforts to conserve the Galapagos Islands.

Key highlights include:

1. Visiting the giant tortoise breeding center to see the iconic Galapagos reptiles up close.

2. Exploring the lush highlands, home to a diverse array of flora and fauna.

3. Snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Tortuga Bay, teeming with marine life.

4. Discovering the vibrant port town of Puerto Ayora, the economic hub of the archipelago.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour’s group size is not explicitly mentioned, but it’s described as a "small group travel for personalized experience," suggesting a relatively small maximum group size, likely in the range of 8 to 16 participants.

Are Single Travelers Charged a Supplemental Fee?

The tour doesn’t specify a single traveler supplement fee. However, the child rate only applies when sharing with 2 paying adults, so single travelers may be charged higher per-person rates for the First Class hotel option.

Can I Book Additional Activities During the Tour?

Yes, travelers can book additional activities during the tour, subject to availability and National Park regulations. However, these optional extras are not included in the tour price and incur additional costs.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The tour has a non-refundable cancellation policy. Guests should carefully review the policy before booking, as there are no refunds allowed for cancellations. Additional penalties may apply for any changes to the reservation.

Are There Any Requirements for Travel Insurance?

The tour does not explicitly require travel insurance. However, it’s strongly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance to cover any unexpected medical expenses or trip cancellations, as the cancellation policy is non-refundable.

The Sum Up

This all-inclusive Galapagos tour offers a comprehensive 5-day experience, providing the opportunity to take in the stunning biodiversity of Isabela and Santa Cruz islands. With expert guides, diverse activities, and comfortable accommodations, it’s an ideal way to explore the natural wonders that make the Galapagos archipelago a true marvel. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, this tour promises an enriching and memorable journey.