The unique bird and animal species of the Galapagos Islands inspired Charles Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection. In this five-day tour, we try to see and understand what makes Galapagos and its many inhabitants different.
Led by expert naturalists, we will visit different islands and bays to meet their residents, including the Galapagos giant tortoise, marine iguana, penguins, flightless cormorant and more. We will also be visiting Charles Darwin Research Station and Giant Tortoise Breeding Center to learn about the scientific research and conservation efforts underway to conserve the Galapagos' ecosystem.
We will also explore the volcanic landscape of the islands, as well as take part in activities like snorkeling, glass-bottom boat tour, kayaking and paddle boarding.
Our mother ship will be Yacht Isabela II, which offers the perfect, intimate space for exploring the Galapagos in comfort. Measuring just a little over 183 feet (55 meters), this three-deck vessel has 20 cabins that sleep up to 40 guests, with several indoor and outdoor communal spaces that give guests the opportunity to revel in the mesmerizing views of the islands. The latest in sustainable technology makes Isabela II the ideal yacht to navigate around the Galapagos without disturbing their delicate ecosystem.
Expedition toursWildlife
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Ship Cabin
Age Range
6-80 yrs
Operated in
english, spanish
Destinations
Galapagos Islands, Baltra Island
Galapagos Islands, Baltra Island, Bartolome Island, Santa Cruz, Isabela Island
Take an amazing tour of the Galapagos Islands on board Yacht La Pinta. On this seven-day tour, we will take you to the best sites around Galapagos, offering once-in-a-lifetime encounters with exotic marine and land animals as well as several bird species.
The Galapagos Islands are nature lovers' haven, with so much to see and explore. Walk among the stunning volcanic formations overlooking beautiful shorelines; spot the famous inhabitants of the Galapagos, such as the giant tortoise, marine iguana, Galapagos penguin, flightless cormorant; and enjoy fun activities like swimming, snorkeling, kayaking and glass-bottom boat ride.
Yacht La Pinta offers a completely safe travel experience. Each cabin provides not only ample space and comfort but a spectacular view of the Galapagos Islands’ unique landscapes. The ship’s modern feel extends to its hot tub, cardio gym, and sundeck.
Throughout the trip, enjoy a splendid dining experience, featuring delicious, healthy, and top-quality food along with tasty bar options. The entire crew aboard La Pinta will do their utmost to ensure that your Galapagos trip becomes a truly moving and memorable experience.
Please scroll down to the itinerary section for more details.
Expedition toursCruiseWildlife
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Ship Cabin
Age Range
1-80 yrs
Operated in
english, spanish
Destinations
Galapagos Islands, Baltra Island
Galapagos Islands, Baltra Island, Isla Fernandina, Urbina Bay, Rábida Island, Santa Cruz, Floreana Island
Combine Peru's incredible landscapes, culture and cuisine with unforgettable wildlife encounters in the Galapagos on this awesome 18-day adventure. Start by eating your way around local markets in Cusco, retracing the steps of the Incas at Machu Picchu and visiting the Uros people who live on floating islands made of reeds on Lake Titicaca. Then, make your way to Quito – the capital of Ecuador – to explore its historic streets before heading to the Galapagos. With an action-packed week on land and underwater, you’ll hike up the rocky slopes of Sierra Negra Volcano, visit flamingo lagoons, snorkel in a bay home to a sea lion colony, and so much more.
Adventure
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Home-stay
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Quito, Lima, La Loberia, Galapag
Quito, Lima, La Loberia, Galapagos Islands, Isla Santa Cruz, Cusco, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu, Puno
17% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Uncover the magic of two of South America's most breathtaking destinations on this extraordinary small-group journey through Ecuador and Peru. From ancient cities steeped in history to otherworldly landscapes and awe-inspiring world wonders, this adventure is filled with unforgettable moments. Begin in Quito, Ecuador’s charming capital nestled in the Andes, before flying to Baltra Island, the gateway to the legendary Galápagos Islands. Cross into Santa Cruz Island, where you'll walk among giant tortoises in their natural habitat, explore lush highlands, and marvel at dramatic volcanic landscapes. Cruise the turquoise waters around Puerto Ayora, snorkeling at La Lobería with playful sea lions, graceful sea turtles, and vibrant tropical fish. Continue your exploration with visits to North Seymour and Bachas Islands, teeming with seabirds, iguanas, and untouched beaches. Next, fly to Lima, Peru's dynamic capital, where colonial grandeur meets contemporary culture in neighborhoods like Miraflores, San Isidro, and the coastal Parque del Amor. Soar over the Andes to Cusco, the historic heart of the Inca Empire. Wind through the Sacred Valley, where ancient agricultural terraces and Andean villages line the route to Machu Picchu — the mystical Lost City of the Incas, perched high among misty peaks. Back in Cusco, walk in the footsteps of emperors at the Temple of the Sun and the mighty Sacsayhuaman Fortress, where immense stones speak of a glorious past. From the pristine Galápagos Islands to the timeless ruins of the Andes, this journey blends nature, history, and culture into an experience that will linger in your memory forever.
This is a Solo Tour
You don't pay a single supplement and get a room for yourself!
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
8-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Cusco, Galapagos Islands, Guayaq
Cusco, Galapagos Islands, Guayaquil, Sacred Valley, Isla Santa Cruz, Puerto Ayora, Lima
Experience the island chain that has enchanted explorers since Darwin first dropped anchor off its shores. Spend a week exploring the incredible wildlife of the Galapagos archipelago aboard a stylish vessel - the Archipel I. Travelling between the central, east and south islands, you will have the chance to explore from land and from the sea; snorkel at Devil's Crown and spot large schools of tropical fish, and head to Santa Cruz's verdant highlands to see giant tortoises in their natural environment.
Archipel I Catamaran - Spend seven nights cruising onboard this modern, spacious catamaran with a naturalist guide and experienced crew
Wildlife spotting - Try to find all three distinct species of booby, as well as sea lions, iguanas, Galapagos penguin, giant tortoises and much more
Snorkel and walk - Discover an underwater paradise as well as a volcanic landscape, with daily snorkelling and on-shore excursions
Cruise
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Quito, Galapagos Islands, Florea
Quito, Galapagos Islands, Floreana Island, Punta Suárez, Isla Lobos, Sante Fe, North Seymour Island
See the incredible animal and bird species of the Galapagos Islands, such as giant tortoises, marine iguanas, sea lions, penguins and frigate birds, in this five-day exclusive journey. Throughout the trip, we will be staying in a yacht (Isabela II), stopping at popular islands and bays to learn about their unique ecosystem with the help of expert naturalist guides. There will also be activities like snorkeling, glass-bottom boat tour, kayaking and paddle boarding.
Yacht Isabela II offers the perfect, intimate space for exploring the Galapagos Islands in comfort. Measuring just a little over 183 feet (55 meters), this three-deck vessel has 20 cabins that sleep up to 40 guests, with several indoor and outdoor communal spaces. The ship also has a restaurant, a hot tub, a cardio gym, a bar and lounge, and even a library with a computer station. The latest in sustainable technology also makes Isabela II the ideal yacht to navigate around the Galapagos without disturbing their delicate ecosystem.
Expedition toursCruiseWildlife
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Ship Cabin
Age Range
6-80 yrs
Operated in
english, spanish
Destinations
Galapagos Islands, Baltra Island
Galapagos Islands, Baltra Island, Isla Santiago, Isla Genovesa, Santa Fe Island
Experience the island chain that has enchanted explorers since Darwin first dropped anchor off its shores. Spend four nights exploring the incredible wildlife of the Galapagos archipelago aboard a stylish vessel - the Archipel I. Travelling between the central and west islands, you will have the chance to explore from land and from the sea; snorkel at Vicente Roca amongst tropical fish and seahorses, and head to Santa Cruz's verdant highlands to see giant tortoises in their natural environment.
Archipel I Catamaran - Spend four nights cruising onboard this modern, spacious catamaran with a naturalist guide and experienced crew
Wildlife spotting - Find blue-footed booby padding around on the islands, as well as sea lions, iguanas, Galapagos penguin, giant tortoises and much more
Snorkel and walk - Discover an underwater paradise as well as a volcanic landscape, with daily snorkelling and on-shore excursions
Adventure
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Quito, Galapagos Islands, Isla I
Quito, Galapagos Islands, Isla Isabela, Isla Fernandina, Rábida Island
An excellent trip on a comfortable boat with a good crew and good food. We saw all of the expected wildlife, and snorkelling with sea lions and turtles amongst the fish was a particular highlight.
The boat is not operated by Explore, so on my trip there were other nationalities who had booked through other operators, but it was a good mix. On the afternoon of the first day at the hotel I received a WhatsApp from the cruise operator providing details of the airport transfer (handled by the hotel in my case) and of their representative who met me at the airport to provide my printed boarding pass and Transit Control Card. They also helped with the additional baggage check required before bag drop. The message also includes the flight details if you want to complete the bio-security form at https://declaracion.abgalapagos.gob.ec/ before arriving at the airport.
After snorkelling the crew will rinse all your gear and then hang wetsuits to dry (I think it was 80 USD to rent a wetsuit on board for the six days, but masks, snorkels and fins were free). There are lines with clothes pegs on the top deck to dry your swimwear.
Remember to take USD cash for tipping the crew and guide at the end of the trip. Two envelopes were left in my cabin for this, but the amount suggested at 15 USD per day for the guide and 25 USD per day for the crew of 11 was about double that in the trip notes.
Adventure
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Quito, Galapagos Islands, Isla I
Quito, Galapagos Islands, Isla Isabela, Moreno Point, Isla Fernandina, Isla Santiago, Rábida Island
Experience the island chain that has enchanted explorers since Darwin first dropped anchor off its shores. Spend a week exploring the incredible wildlife of the Galapagos archipelago aboard a stylish vessel - the Archipel I. Travelling between the central, west and east islands, you will have the chance to explore from land and from the sea; snorkel with penguins at Vicente Roca and spot frigatebirds at North Seymour, and head to Santa Cruz's verdant highlands to see giant tortoises in their natural environment.
Archipel I Catamaran - Spend seven nights cruising onboard this modern, spacious catamaran with a naturalist guide and experienced crew
Wildlife spotting - Try to find all three distinct species of booby, as well as sea lions, iguanas, Galapagos penguin, giant tortoises and much more
Snorkel and walk - Discover an underwater paradise as well as a volcanic landscape, with daily snorkelling and on-shore excursions
Adventure
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Quito, Galapagos Islands, Santa
Quito, Galapagos Islands, Santa Fe Island, North Seymour Island, Puerto Ayora, Isabela Island, Isla Fernandina, Rábida Island
Embark on a 23-day adventure through Peru, Ecuador, and the Galapagos Islands, where diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and unique wildlife await.
Begin in Peru with Lima’s vibrant markets, culinary experiences, and a walk through its colonial and modern districts. Journey to Lake Titicaca, exploring ancient cultures on Taquile and Uros Islands. In Cusco, visit iconic Inca sites and discover the Sacred Valley, leading to the legendary Machu Picchu.
Then, venture into the Amazon at Puerto Maldonado, exploring the rainforest and its exotic wildlife from a secluded jungle lodge. Next, wander through Quito, Ecuador’s colonial heart, and taste its famous chocolate.
In the Galapagos, encounter giant tortoises, snorkel among sea lions, and trek volcanic trails on Isabela Island. Finally, unwind in Guayaquil, enjoying coastal sights and vibrant local life.
Prepare to be captivated by the wonders of South America—an adventure of a lifetime awaits!
See the itinerary section below for more details.
Food tours
Tour Type
Private Tour
Age Range
1-79 yrs
Operated in
English
Destinations
Cusco, Machu Picchu, Quito, Lima
Cusco, Machu Picchu, Quito, Lima, Puerto Maldonado, Puno, Galapagos Islands, Guayaquil, Amazon Peru, Sandoval Lake, Puerto Quito, Puerto Ayora, Isabela Island, Taquile Island, Sacred Valley
Travelling aboard the upgraded Treasure of the Galapagos catamaran, experience the island chain that has enchanted explorers since Darwin first dropped anchor off its shores. Spend six nights discovering the incredible wildlife of the Galapagos archipelago in comfort, with access to your own private cabin balcony as well as a sundeck Jacuzzi. Travelling between the central and west islands, you will have the chance to explore from land and from the sea; snorkel at Vicente Roca and spot large schools of tropical fish, find the Galapagos penguin near Isabela Island and head to Santa Cruz's verdant highlands to see giant tortoises in their natural environment.
Treasure of the Galapagos Catamaran - Spend six nights cruising onboard this first class catamaran with a naturalist guide, experienced crew and with the luxury of an onboard Jacuzzi
Wildlife spotting - Swim with sea lions and the Galapagos penguin, and spot the flightless cormorant, blue-footed boobies, iguanas and giant tortoises on land, among many other species
Snorkel and walk - Discover an underwater paradise as well as a volcanic landscape, with daily snorkelling and on-shore excursions
Adventure
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Quito, Galapagos Islands, Isla I
Quito, Galapagos Islands, Isla Isabela, Moreno Point, Isla Fernandina, Rábida Island
Experience the island chain that has enchanted explorers since Darwin first dropped anchor off its shores. Spend a week exploring the incredible wildlife of the Galapagos archipelago aboard a stylish vessel - the Archipel I. Visit Espanola Island and snorkel at Gardner Bay, spotting large schools of tropical fish. Head to the northernmost island and find the nesting sites of red-footed boobies. And, of course, see giant tortoises in their natural environment.
Archipel I Catamaran - Spend seven nights cruising onboard this modern, spacious catamaran with a naturalist guide and experienced crew
Wildlife spotting - See the waved albatross population on Espanola Island, spot red-footed boobies, sea lions, iguanas, giant tortoises and much more
Snorkel and walk - Discover an underwater paradise as well as a volcanic landscape, with daily snorkelling and on-shore excursions
Adventure
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Quito, Galapagos Islands, Genove
Quito, Galapagos Islands, Genovesa Island, Bartolome Island, Floreana Island, Punta Suárez
Experience the island chain that has enchanted explorers since Darwin first dropped anchor off its shores. Spend a week exploring the incredible wildlife of the Galapagos archipelago aboard a stylish vessel - the Archipel I. Explore from land and from the sea; find waved albatross on Espanola Island, head to Santa Cruz's verdant highlands to see giant tortoises in their natural environment, and snorkel with schools of tropical fish at Devil's Crown.
Archipel I Catamaran - Spend four nights cruising onboard this modern, spacious catamaran with a naturalist guide and experienced crew
Wildlife spotting - Spot blue-footed boobies, as well as sea lions, iguanas, Galapagos penguin, giant tortoises and much more
Snorkel and walk - Discover an underwater paradise as well as a volcanic landscape, with daily snorkelling and on-shore excursions
Adventure
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Quito, Galapagos Islands, Florea
Quito, Galapagos Islands, Floreana Island, Punta Suárez, San Cristobal Island
Discover Ecuador's rich culture and breathtaking landscapes on this unforgettable tour. Begin in the historic heart of Quito, exploring its well-preserved colonial architecture and vibrant streets. Delight in a unique chocolate experience, savoring Ecuador's finest cacao.
Next, venture to the awe-inspiring Galapagos Islands. Witness the incredible wildlife of Santa Cruz and Isabela Island, from giant tortoises to playful sea lions, and embark on exhilarating hikes up volcanic craters.
Conclude your journey in Guayaquil, where the bustling cityscape meets the serene River Guayas. Explore the iconic Malecon 2000 Boardwalk and the historic Santa Ana Hill. This adventure promises a perfect blend of history, nature, and culture, making for an extraordinary experience in Ecuador.
For more details, please see the itinerary section below.
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Marine wildlife
Tour Type
Private Tour
Age Range
1-80 yrs
Operated in
english, spanish
Destinations
Quito, Galapagos Islands, Guayaq
Quito, Galapagos Islands, Guayaquil, Baltra Island, Isla Isabela, Sierra Negra
Marion PassierTravel Expert in Ecuador
Alejandro JacomeTravel Expert in Colombia & Ecuador
Maria SzlafszteinTravel Expert in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru & Uruguay
Clara GonzalezTravel Expert in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru & Uruguay
