Galapagos Island Hopping (Santa Cruz, San Cristobal and Isabela)

The Galapagos Islands are a natural wonder, and the island hopping tour through Santa Cruz, San Cristobal, and Isabela offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore this remarkable destination. Travelers can expect to be immersed in the unique ecosystems, snorkeling alongside vibrant marine life and discovering breathtaking landscapes. With guided walks, comfortable accommodations, and inclusive meals, this tour provides a seamless experience focused on the natural wonders of the Galapagos. But what else can you expect from this captivating journey?

Key Points

• Eight-day tour exploring five Galapagos Islands, including Isabela, Santa Cruz, and San Cristobal, with guided snorkeling and nature experiences.
• Comfortable accommodations and daily meals provided, with transportation and logistics arranged for a seamless experience.
• Guided walks and hikes to observe the islands’ unique wildlife and ecosystems, accompanied by a naturalist guide.
• Tour price starts at $2,988 per person, with additional fees for park entrance, permits, and transportation.
• Maximum group size of 10 travelers, with tour not being wheelchair accessible.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The eight-day Galapagos Island Hopping tour takes travelers on an immersive exploration of five captivating islands – Isabela, Santa Cruz, San Cristobal, Espanola, and an uninhabited island.

Snorkeling is a highlight, with all the necessary gear provided. A naturalist guide offers insightful commentary on the diverse flora and fauna.

Snorkeling with all gear provided, while a naturalist guide offers insightful commentary on the Galapagos’ diverse flora and fauna.

While the itinerary is subject to change per Galapagos National Park regulations, the tour promises an unforgettable journey through this unique archipelago.

Accommodations, meals, and transportation are all included, making for a seamless and convenient experience.

Snorkeling and Nature Experiences

Snorkeling is a highlight of the Galapagos Island Hopping tour, with all necessary gear provided. Guests can explore the vibrant underwater world, encountering colorful fish, sea turtles, and perhaps even a playful sea lion.

The naturalist guide offers insightful commentary on the marine life and ecosystems. On land, travelers can observe the iconic Galapagos wildlife, from the lumbering giant tortoises to the comical Nazca boobies.

Guided walks and hikes allow visitors to learn about the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this isolated archipelago. The tour immerses guests in the natural wonders of the Galapagos Islands.

Accommodation and Dining

Seven nights of comfortable accommodation await guests on the Galapagos Island Hopping tour.

Travelers will stay in selected hotels, ranging from standard to luxury class. Daily meals include breakfast and lunch, providing a balanced diet to fuel exploration. Dietary requirements can be catered to with advance notice.

The tour package covers all transportation, including boat and ground, ensuring a seamless experience. With these thoughtful amenities, guests can focus on seeing the natural wonders of the Galapagos Islands without worrying about the logistics.

Transportation and Logistics

All transportation for the Galapagos Island Hopping tour is included, both by boat and ground, ensuring a seamless journey.

Travelers must arrive at the San Cristobal Airport before 1:00 PM to meet the group. The tour ends at Baltra Airport, with flights departing at 11:30 AM or later.

Additional fees include the Galapagos National Park entrance ($100), INAGALA ($20), Isabela pier use ($10), transportation to/from Itabaca Channel ($5), and water taxi ($1).

The tour accommodates a maximum of 10 travelers and isn’t wheelchair accessible. Specific dietary requirements should be communicated at the time of booking.

Costs and Payment Details

The tour price for the Galapagos Island Hopping experience starts at $2,988.00 per person, with the final cost varying based on the group size.

This non-refundable package includes the following:

• Entrance fees to the Galapagos National Park ($100) and INAGALA ($20)

• Pier use fee for Isabela ($10)

• Transportation to and from the Itabaca Channel ($5)

• Water taxi charges ($1)

Travelers should note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and a child rate applies when sharing with two paying adults.

Specific dietary requirements should be communicated at the time of booking.

Group Size and Accessibility

The Galapagos Island Hopping tour accommodates a maximum of 10 travelers per group. This allows for a more intimate and personalized experience as you explore the islands.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though a child rate is available when sharing with two paying adults.

Travelers should keep in mind the tour operates in all weather conditions, so dressing appropriately is essential.

The Galapagos National Park and surrounding areas may present challenges for some visitors, so the tour’s accessibility should be carefully considered before booking.

Specific dietary requirements can be advised at the time of booking.

Additional Considerations

Travelers should familiarize themselves with Galapagos National Park regulations, as the tour’s itinerary may be subject to change to comply with these rules.

Additional considerations include:

• The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but a child rate applies when sharing with two paying adults.

• Travelers should advise any specific dietary requirements at the time of booking.

• The tour operates in all weather conditions, so appropriate clothing is essential.

• Confirmation is received at the time of booking.

• A maximum of 10 travelers are allowed per tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Vaccinations Are Required for the Galapagos Islands Tour?

The tour operator doesn’t specify any required vaccinations. However, travelers should consult their healthcare provider and review recommended vaccinations for travel to the Galapagos Islands, such as routine immunizations and possibly typhoid and hepatitis A.

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?

Travelers can bring their own snorkeling equipment. However, the tour provides fins and a shorty wetsuit, so bringing personal gear is optional. Travelers should check with the tour operator about any restrictions on using personal snorkeling equipment.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour itinerary is fixed at 8 days, but travelers can extend their stay in the Galapagos independently before or after the tour. There’s no option to increase the tour duration through the operator.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?

The tour is non-refundable, and there are no refunds for cancellations. This is a common policy for tours in the Galapagos Islands due to the high demand and limited availability of spots.

Can I Bring Pets on the Galapagos Islands Tour?

Pets are not allowed on the Galapagos Islands tour. The tour is focused on exploring the natural environment, and bringing pets could disrupt the delicate ecosystem. Travelers must adhere to Galapagos National Park regulations during the tour.

The Sum Up

The Galapagos Island Hopping tour offers an immersive experience exploring the stunning islands of Santa Cruz, San Cristobal, and Isabela. Travelers can expect to snorkel alongside vibrant marine life, discover diverse flora and fauna, and enjoy comfortable accommodations and inclusive meals. With a focus on the natural wonders of this remarkable destination, the tour provides the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration.