info@flashpackerconnect.com

+1 206-892-8877

Ecuador

Galapagos Adventure Tour: 8-Day Island Hopping, Wildlife, Hiking & Snorkeling

Explore the Galapagos Islands on an 8-day adventure filled with biking, trekking, snorkeling, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.

Group Guided

Galapagos Adventure Tour: 8-Day Island Hopping, Wildlife, Hiking & Snorkeling

Explore the Galapagos Islands on an 8-day adventure filled with biking, trekking, snorkeling, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.

Discover the unparalleled beauty and unique wildlife of the Galapagos Islands on this 8-day active adventure tour. Perfect for nature lovers and thrill-seekers, this trip offers a perfect blend of outdoor activities, wildlife encounters, and cultural experiences across Isabela and Santa Cruz Islands.

Your journey begins in Quito, Ecuador, before taking a flight to the Galapagos, where you'll explore volcanic landscapes, pristine beaches, and diverse ecosystems. Bike along scenic trails, hike to the rim of Sierra Negra Volcano, snorkel through the lava tunnels, and get up close with giant tortoises in their natural habitat. From spotting blue-footed boobies to swimming with sea lions, every day promises new adventures and unforgettable moments.

This trip is designed for travelers of all fitness levels, with activities ranging from easy hikes to relaxing snorkels, all guided by expert naturalists committed to sustainability and conservation. Along the way, you'll learn about the efforts to protect the islands' incredible wildlife and support local communities.

Whether you're biking across Isabela, hiking through the lush highlands of Santa Cruz, or snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, the Active Galapagos 8-Day Adventure will leave you with lasting memories and a deep appreciation for this one-of-a-kind archipelago.

Highlights:

  • Cycle through Isabela Island, home to unique wildlife
  • Trek the rim of Sierra Negra Volcano for breathtaking views
  • Snorkel in the lava tunnels, surrounded by marine life
  • Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and learn about conservation efforts
  • Spot giant tortoises in their natural habitat at El Chato Reserve
  • Support sustainable travel and local communities

Join us for the adventure of a lifetime, where every day brings you closer to the wonders of the Galapagos Islands!

No items found.
No items found.

Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Quito

Arrive in Ecuador’s vibrant capital, Quito, nestled in the Andean highlands. The day is free for you to explore the city at your leisure. If you'd like a guided day tour of Quito or nearby attractions, let us know in advance, and we’ll connect you with an expert local guide for an additional cost.

Evening: Join a mandatory meeting at 6:00 PM in the hotel lobby to meet your guide and fellow travelers, and to get an overview of the adventure ahead.

  • Overnight: Dann Carlton or similar
  • Meals Included: None

Day 2: Travel to the Galapagos Islands

This morning, you’ll transfer to the airport for a three-hour flight to Baltra Island, the gateway to the Galapagos. Upon arrival, you’ll be transported by road and ferry to Isabela Island, one of the youngest and most ecologically diverse islands in the archipelago. Isabela is a haven for wildlife, including marine iguanas, flamingos, giant tortoises, and even Galapagos penguins.

Afternoon: Check into the hotel and enjoy a leisurely evening to relax or watch the stunning sunset over the Pacific.

  • Overnight: Cormorant Hotel or similar
  • Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 3: Biking Exploration on Isabela Island

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on an exciting biking adventure along a scenic, exclusive road on Isabela Island. Each stop along the way introduces you to the island’s unique ecosystems and stunning landscapes.

Highlights:

  • Playa del Amor (Love Beach): Observe the largest population of marine iguanas on the island, unique to the Galapagos and capable of foraging underwater.
  • Tortoise Breeding Center: Learn about the Galapagos National Park’s conservation efforts to protect the endangered giant tortoises.
  • Flamingo Lagoon: Wrap up your adventure at this serene lagoon, a haven for vibrant flamingos.

Evening: Relax and soak in the golden sunset while listening to the rhythmic waves in the tranquil town.

  • Overnight: Cormorant Hotel or similar
  • Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 4: Trekking Sierra Negra & Snorkeling at Tintoreras

This action-packed day begins with an exploration of Isabela’s highlands and a trek along the rim of Sierra Negra Volcano, one of the most iconic volcanic sites in the Galapagos. The 10-mile hike offers breathtaking views, including the expansive volcanic caldera and, on clear days, Elizabeth Bay.

Afternoon: Head to Tintoreras Islet, a rugged volcanic formation teeming with wildlife.

  • Wildlife Highlights: Spot playful penguins, vibrant blue-footed boobies, and marine iguanas.
  • Snorkeling: Dive into crystal-clear waters and explore the underwater world, searching for fish, sea turtles, rays, and sea lions.
  • Overnight: Cormorant Hotel or similar
  • Meals Included: Breakfast and lunch

Day 5: Explore the Lava Tunnels

Step into a surreal landscape at Los Túneles, known for its mesmerizing volcanic arch formations. This unique ecosystem is a nesting ground for blue-footed boobies and home to an incredible array of marine life.

Activities:

  • Boat Excursion: Navigate through the intricate volcanic formations.
  • Snorkeling Adventure: Discover the underwater world filled with white-tip reef sharks, penguins, golden rays, eagle rays, and more.
  • On Foot Exploration: Walk across the volcanic arches for close encounters with nesting birds.

Afternoon: Lunch will be served onboard the boat before heading back to town for a relaxed evening.

  • Overnight: Cormorant Hotel or similar
  • Meals Included: Breakfast and lunch

Day 6: Charles Darwin Research Station & Giant Tortoises

Start your day early with a two-hour boat ride to Santa Cruz Island, home of the renowned Charles Darwin Research Station.

Morning:

  • Tour the station to learn about the conservation efforts that have helped repopulate the islands with different tortoise species.

Afternoon:

  • Visit El Chato Reserve in the highlands, where giant tortoises roam freely in their natural habitat. Explore the fascinating lava tunnels nearby while observing these majestic creatures in their muddy sanctuaries.

Evening: Stroll through Puerto Ayora, or visit the boat docks to spot sharks and rays playing in the illuminated waters.

  • Overnight: Galapagos Inn Hotel or similar
  • Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 7: Return to Quito

After breakfast, you’ll transfer to Baltra Island for your flight back to Quito. Depending on the flight route (direct or via Guayaquil), the journey takes 2–3 hours. Spend the evening reflecting on your incredible Galapagos adventure or exploring Quito further.

  • Overnight: Dann Carlton or similar
  • Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 8: Departure

Your unforgettable Galapagos journey concludes today. If you wish to extend your trip to other destinations in Ecuador or South America, we’ll gladly assist in planning additional adventures. Otherwise, we wish you safe travels home!

  • Meals Included: Breakfast

Additional Trip Info

  • Airport Transfers: For domestic flights to/from the Galapagos.
  • Certified Guides: Top experienced, certified English-speaking guides to lead your adventure.
  • Private Transport: Comfortable and reliable transportation for all activities.
  • Accommodation: Seven nights at premium hotels (as listed or similar).
  • Meals: As outlined in the itinerary.
  • Snacks & Water: Available at all times during activities.
  • Biking Gear: Hybrid bikes, certified helmets, and gloves.
  • Snorkeling Gear: Masks and fins for underwater exploration.
    • International Flights: Flights to/from Ecuador.
    • Domestic Flights: Quito – Baltra – Quito.
    • Galapagos Transit Control Card (INGALA): $20 (subject to change).
    • Galapagos National Park Fee: $100 per person (subject to change).
    • Airport Transfers for International Flights: Not included.
    • Meals Not Mentioned: Any meals outside those specified in the itinerary.
    • Gratuities: Tips for guides and drivers.
    • Travel Insurance: Mandatory for all participants.
    • Optional Activities: Any activities not listed in the itinerary.
    • Travel Insurance - We recommend  World Nomads, or Global Rescue

    Have Questions?

    Interested in building a custom trip? We want to help you travel to places you have dreamt about.

    Build a Custom Trip