8-Day Best of Quito and Galapagos -Santa Cruz, Isabela & Unhinhabited Island

Exploring the Galapagos Islands is a dream for many travelers. The "8-Day Best of Quito and Galapagos" tour provides an opportunity to take in this unique ecosystem. With personalized attention from a naturalist guide, participants can discover the diverse wildlife and landscapes of Santa Cruz, Isabela, and uninhabited islands. From snorkeling to cultural experiences, this comprehensive itinerary promises an unforgettable adventure. However, the details of this tour may surprise even the seasoned explorer.

Key Points

• This 8-day tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Quito and the Galapagos Islands, focusing on San Cristobal Island with a small-group experience.
• The tour includes 7 nights of accommodation, a professional naturalist guide, snorkeling equipment, and transportation, providing a well-rounded Galapagos adventure.
• Pickup options are available at Baltra Airport, Quito Airport, or select hotels, and the tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and child rates apply when sharing accommodations with at least one paying adult.
• The tour is priced from $2,779.00 per person, with no refunds for cancellations, but it has received a 5.0 rating based on a single review.

Tour Overview

The tour offers an 8-day exploration of Quito and the Galapagos Islands, highlighting the diverse ecosystems and endemic species.

Travelers will spend 4 days exploring San Cristobal Island on a small-group tour, learning about the Galapagos environment and its unique wildlife.

Spend 4 days exploring San Cristobal Island, learning about the Galapagos environment and its unique wildlife on a small-group tour.

The tour is capped at 12 participants and includes accommodation, most meals, and activities.

Snorkeling equipment is provided, and a professional naturalist guide leads the way in English and Spanish.

Transportation, including airport transfers, is also included, making for a seamless and informative Galapagos experience.

Inclusions

This tour includes 7 nights of accommodation in selected hotels, as well as the services of a professional Naturalist English/Spanish-speaking guide. Snorkeling equipment is provided, and 24-hour assistance in English/Spanish is available. Transportation, including airport transfers, land, and sea transport, is included. Meals are also part of the package, with 7 breakfasts and 6 lunches provided.

| Inclusions | Details |

| — | — |

| Accommodations | 7 nights in selected hotels |

| Guide | Professional Naturalist, English/Spanish-speaking |

| Snorkeling | Use of equipment provided |

| Assistance | 24-hour support in English/Spanish |

| Transportation | Airport transfers, land, and sea transport |

| Meals | 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches |

The tour also covers the required entrance fees, including $200 for the Galapagos National Park, $20 at the mainland airport, and $10 for the pier fee in Isabela.

Pickup and Logistics

Pickup for the tour is available at Baltra Airport, Quito Airport, or hotels in Quito, Santa Cruz, and Isabela.

Travelers are limited to 1 suitcase and 1 carry-on per person. Inquiries about oversized items should be made.

The itinerary is subject to change due to park regulations or unforeseen circumstances, and no refunds are applicable.

The tour is capped at a maximum of 10 travelers.

Wheelchair accessibility isn’t available.

Child rates apply when sharing with at least 1 paying adult, but infant meals aren’t included.

Most travelers can participate in the tour activities.

Traveler Information

Although the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, child rates apply when sharing with at least one paying adult. Infants must sit on laps, and their meals aren’t included.

Most travelers can participate, with a maximum of 10 travelers for this tour. The tour is capped at 12 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Travelers should be aware that the itinerary is subject to change due to park regulations or unforeseen circumstances, and no refunds will be applicable in such cases.

Pricing and Reviews

The tour is priced from $2,779.00 per person, though the exact cost may vary depending on the group size.

It’s a non-refundable tour, so there are no refunds for cancellations.

Based on a single review, the tour has received a 5.0 rating, with praise for the exceptional service from the guide, Andrés Aguas.

The tour is capped at a maximum of 10 travelers, offering an intimate experience.

While the price may seem high, the inclusions – such as accommodation, meals, and national park fees – suggest it could be a good value for those seeking a comprehensive Galapagos adventure.

Exploring San Cristobal Island

What intriguing sights await visitors on San Cristobal Island? The island beckons with its diverse landscapes and endemic wildlife. Travelers can hike to Cerro Tijeretas, a stunning overlook teeming with frigatebirds and Nazca boobies. Snorkeling adventures reveal vibrant coral reefs and playful sea lions. At the island’s main town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, visitors can explore the Interpretation Center to learn about the Galapagos ecosystem.

| Highlights | Experiences | Recommended Duration |

| — | — | — |

| Cerro Tijeretas | Hiking | 2-3 hours |

| Snorkeling | Wildlife viewing | 1-2 hours |

| Interpretation Center | Educational exhibits | 1 hour |

Learning About the Galapagos Ecosystem

While exploring the Galapagos Islands, visitors have the unique opportunity to enjoy the captivating Galapagos ecosystem.

The tour will provide an in-depth look at the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this remote archipelago. Guests will learn about the endemic species, such as the Galapagos tortoise and the flightless cormorant, and how they’ve adapted to the islands’ harsh environment.

The naturalist guide will share insights into the delicate balance of the Galapagos’ unique ecosystems and the conservation efforts in place to protect this fragile paradise.

This educational experience is a highlight of the tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Typical Group Size for This Tour?

The tour is capped at 12 travelers, with a maximum of 10 participants. The group size is kept small to provide a more intimate and personalized experience for travelers.

Are Pets Allowed on the Tour?

No, pets are not allowed on this tour. The tour is capped at a maximum of 12 travelers, and only service animals are permitted due to the sensitive Galapagos ecosystem and regulations.

Can I Extend My Stay in the Galapagos Islands?

Yes, travelers can extend their stay in the Galapagos Islands. The tour itinerary is flexible, and the tour provider can assist with booking additional accommodations and activities beyond the 8-day program if desired, subject to availability.

What Is the Policy for Cancelled or Delayed Flights?

The tour’s policy states that the itinerary is subject to change due to park regulations or unforeseen circumstances, and no refunds are applicable. Travelers should ensure they have travel insurance to cover any flight cancellations or delays.

Are There Any Special Dietary Accommodations Available?

The tour can accommodate special dietary requirements, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, if requested in advance. Travelers should inform the tour operator of any dietary needs when booking to ensure appropriate meals are provided.

The Sum Up

The "8-Day Best of Quito and Galapagos" tour offers an immersive exploration of the Galapagos Islands’ stunning landscapes and unique wildlife. Participants enjoy personalized attention from a professional naturalist guide and a range of activities, including snorkeling, wildlife observation, and cultural experiences. With comfortable accommodations and meals, this tour provides a comprehensive adventure in one of the world’s most remarkable ecosystems.