Galapagos Islands Family Adventure (Private)

Welcome to Quito, the largest and best-preserved colonial city in South America, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978. Known as the Cultural Capital of South America, it lies on the equator in a valley at the foothills of the Pichincha volcano.

Upon arrival in Quito, make your way to the hotel for check-in. Depending on the arrival time, then you may have some time to explore Quito's historic old town and its surroundings.

Airport transfers are not included on this tour, but we can arrange them for you.

Please note: Although this tour is suitable for families with children aged 8 and over, it is open to all, and you don't need to have children in your booking party!

Tour Style: This tour is semi-private. It departs on a day of your choice and you will not travelling as part of a group, but water transportation and included excursions in the Galapagos will be on a shared basis, with other travellers.

Quito - Puerto Villamil (Galapagos Islands). This morning, fly from Quito to Baltra, gateway to the Galapagos. Then, head to the town of Puerto Ayora, from where a short boat ride takes you to Isabela, the archipelago’s largest and most volcanically active island Isabela was formed by six dramatic shield volcanoes, five of which are still alive with geothermal force. Arriving at the accommodation, the evening is at leisure.

Today, explore Los Tuneles, a surreal maze of lava arches and crystal-clear waters teeming with sea turtles, rays, sharks, sea lions, and playful penguins. It will take an hour by boat to reach the destination, snorkel alongside the rich wildlife in one of the Galapagos’ most iconic spots, famously featured by BBC and National Geographic. Snorkel in two different spots before heading back to Isabela.

There is time before and after today's included excursion to unwind on Isabela’s white-sand beaches, rent a bike, or visit the nearby giant tortoise breeding centre—just a short stroll from the hotel.

After breakfast, head to the highlands of Isabela for a hike along the rim of Sierra Negra, one of the world’s largest volcanic craters. At 1,500 metres, the views stretch across a dramatic lava-scape shaped by powerful eruptions. Lunch is served on a peaceful organic farm where local produce is grilled over volcanic stone, take a stroll through fruit trails or unwind in a hammock beneath a mango tree.

Later, enjoy 2 hours of kayaking through a wildlife-rich bay, gliding past penguins, sea lions, turtles, and blue-footed boobies. A short walk through the mangroves brings you to a hidden turquoise cove alive with colour and movement. Don a snorkel and mask and dive into these wildlife rich waters, with about an hour of snorkelling time.

The total hiking distance today is 6 miles (9.6km) with an optional extension to Volcan Chico taking the total distance up to 10 miles (16km).

Puerto Villamil - Santa Cruz. This morning, cross from Isabela to Santa Cruz and settle into the hotel in Puerto Ayora before visiting the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn about endemic species, the island’s vital conservation work and the story behind Charles Darwin's development of his theory of evolution, which he made while studying finches in the Galapagos.

In the afternoon, journey into the lush highlands to walk among giant tortoises at the Primacies reserve, an iconic Galapagos experience. As well as these gentle giants (some of which are more than 100 years old!), keep an eye out for pintail ducks, egrets, and finches by the freshwater lake. Later, return to Puerto Ayora for a relaxed final evening in the Galapagos.

Santa Cruz - Quito (Ecuador). After a final breakfast and a few last snapshots of lounging sea lions, we transfer to Baltra Airport for you flight back to the mainland. The rest of the day is at leisure.

The tour ends today after breakfast. Your airport transfer is not included, so you can make your way to the airport or continue your travels independently.