Galapagos Encounters - 7 days

Galapagos Encounters - 7 days

tourhub | On The Go Tours | Galapagos Encounters - 7 days | 1433/GALEN
tourhub | On The Go Tours | Galapagos Encounters - 7 days | 1433/GALEN tourhub | On The Go Tours | Galapagos Encounters - 7 days | 1433/GALEN

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7 Days From

$4545

$4091

Galapagos Encounters - 7 days

7 Days Starting and ending in Quito, Ecuador

Visiting: Quito, Santa Cruz, Galapagos, Genovesa Island, Galapagos Islands, San Cristobal Island

Tour operator:

On The Go Tours

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

2 - 16

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

5-90

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Please contact On The Go Tours with specific dietary requests

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Cruise

Interests:

Cultural, Wildlife Tours

Activities:

Sightseeing, Snorkeling

From: $4545 $4091 Operator discount: -$455

NB: Prices correct on 05-Oct-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating 7-day adventure with the "Galapagos Encounters" tour, exploring the breathtaking beauty of Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. Begin your journey in Quito, where you'll discover the charm of this UNESCO-listed colonial city. Then, set sail on the luxurious M/C Anahi catamaran, your home for four nights, as you cruise through the enchanting Galapagos archipelago. Experience the thrill of daily excursions led by expert guides, where you'll encounter unique wildlife such as penguins, turtles, and the famous red-footed boobies. Visit iconic sites like Santa Cruz Island's Charles Darwin Station, Genovesa Island's bird colonies, and the sea lion haven of South Plazas Island. Enjoy kayaking, snorkeling, and panga rides in crystal-clear waters, and unwind with delicious local cuisine and stunning ocean views. This small group adventure promises unforgettable memories and a deep connection with nature's wonders.

Highlights

  • Explore the UNESCO-listed colonial city of Quito.

  • Visit Santa Cruz Island, home to the Charles Darwin Station and a favorite nesting site for sea turtles.

  • Discover Genovesa Island, known for its red-footed boobies and storm petrels.

  • Encounter thousands of sea lions on South Plazas Island.

  • Find unique species of land iguana on Santa Fe Island.

  • See the three species of boobies and two species of frigates nesting together on San Cristobal Island.

  • Marvel at the abundance of sea lions on Lobos Island.

  • Visit the Galapagos Tortoise Breeding Centre on San Cristobal Island.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Quito

Location: Quito

Accommodation Name: Ikala Quito Hotel

Upon arrival at Quito airport you will be met by an English speaking guide and transferred to your hotel in the city. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, independently exploring.

Day 2: Galapagos Islands

Location: Santa Cruz, Galapagos

Accommodation Name: Galapagos Islands - M/C Anahi

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Quito - Galapagos. This morning, you'll be collected from your hotel and transferred to the airport for the short flight to Baltra Airport on Santa Cruz island in the Galapagos, where our guide will be waiting for you. Transfer to the M/C Anahi catamaran, your home for the next 5 days. Settle into your cabin and enjoy lunch onboard before your tour of the Galapagos Islands begins.





Our first stop is Bachas Beach – a favourite nesting site for sea turtles. Made up of two beaches separated by outcropping lava rocks, Bachas is certainly a sight to behold with spectacular white sand and crystal clear waters. Behind one of the beaches is a small lagoon where we may be lucky enough to see flamingos and other coastal birds, such as Black-necked stilts and whimbrels.

Day 3: Genovesa Island

Location: Genovesa Island

Accommodation Name: Galapagos Islands - M/C Anahi

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today we explore Genovesa, a horse-shoe shaped island in the northern reaches of the Galapagos Islands. We start the day with a visit to Darwin Bay, an incredible geological structure formed by a collapsed volcanic caldera. Following a trail of coral sand and slabs of lava, we’ll go in search of bird-life, from nesting colonies of the common frigate and the Nasca booby to the swallow-tailed gull. We will also have the chance to see the nesting site of the red-footed booby - Genovesa is home to the largest nesting colony of pelagic birds in the Galapagos.





Later in the afternoon we follow the El Barranco trail, situated in the southern part of Darwin Bay, walking 1.5 kilometres along volcanic rock. The natural erosion that has occurred in these lava flows has become the ideal place for nesting Storm Petrels, which we can see nesting in the cavities of the lava. We enjoy panga (dingy) rides along the cliffs to hopefully spot some fur seals.

Day 4: South Plazas & Santa Fe

Location: Galapagos Islands

Accommodation Name: Galapagos Islands - M/C Anahi

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning's excursion takes us to South Plaza, a small island off the eastern coast of Santa Cruz. Despite its size, this island is home to an incredible number of species including around 1000 sea lions and several hybrid iguanas. The result of crossing a male marine iguana and a female land iguana, these iguanas are unique and easily recognizable at first glance by their black or gray colour, with a land iguana's crest, but face and tail of the marine iguana.





Next stop is Santa Fe, also off the coast of Santa Cruz, where we will meet even more unique species of iguana. The archipelago is also home to six endemic species of rats, one of which can be found on Santa Fe and another attraction is the presence of giant tunas.

Day 5: San Cristobal Island

Location: San Cristobal Island

Accommodation Name: Galapagos Islands - M/C Anahi

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Our next port of call is San Cristobal, one of the easternmost of the Galapagos Islands. We start the morning by exploring Punta Pitt, situated at the eastern end of the island. Here we follow a trail that will take us past an olvine beach before ascending to the top of a volcanic tuff hill, passing several picturesque viewpoints en route. This is the only place in the Galapagos Islands where you can see the three species of boobies and two species of frigates nesting in the same area. You may also get to see colonies of sea lion relaxing on the beach or rocky outcrops.





After lunch we stop to see the Leon Dormido Rocks, the remains of a lava cone eroded by the sea. Rising some 500 feet out of the ocean, these two vertical rocks form a small channel that is navigable by small boats. Many tropic birds, frigates and boobies can be seen in the area, making it a favourite stop off for visitors. Beneath the sea the nearly crystal-clear waters offer a brilliant show of colourful tropical fish and invertebrates.





We continue on to explore Lobos Island which is home to a small population of blue-footed boobies, as well as two species of sea lions. From your panga you can try to spot brown pelicans and several species of shorebirds, and if you opt to snorkel it's common to see young sea lions, manta rays and sea turtles.

Day 6: Galapagos Tortoise Breeding Centre

Location: San Cristobal Island

Accommodation Name: Ikala Quito Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning our tour has two options. The first option starts from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, and involves a visit to the El Junco Lagoon. For hundreds of years, rain water and condensation have caused an accumulation of water in the caldera of an extinct volcano, creating a paradise for frigate birds and turtles. Alternatively we take a visit to the Galapagos Tortoise Breeding Centre located in the southeast of San Cristobal Island. The natural population of tortoises from San Cristobal is seriously threatened by introduced animals (mainly wild goats, rats and cats), which to date has been impossible to eradicate despite continuing efforts. The San Cristobal tortoises are one of the 11 populations of Galapagos tortoises. At the visitors centre, we learn all about the natural history of the giant tortoises of this island.





After visiting the breeding centre, transfer back to the town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno where our bus will be waiting to transfer you to the airport for your flight back to Quito. Upon arrival at Quito airport you'll be met and transferred back to your hotel in Quito for your final night at leisure.

Day 7: Quito

Location: Quito

Meals Included: Breakfast

Wednesday. Arrangements end after breakfast and hotel check out today.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    3 star hotel & first class cruise

  • 6 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 4 dinners

    Enjoy 6 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners during your tour.

  • 2 nights 3 star hotel in Quito, standard room including breakfast

    Stay for 2 nights in a 3-star hotel in Quito with breakfast included. Option to upgrade to a suite upon request.

  • 5 day Galapagos Cruise

    Experience a 5-day Galapagos Cruise with 4 nights onboard the M/C Anahi catamaran in a twin or double cabin, on the main deck with en suite and A/C. Option to upgrade to a suite upon request.

  • Quito airport arrival transfer on day 1

    Receive a Quito airport arrival transfer on day 1 with an English speaking guide.

  • Galapagos Flights

    Flights from Quito to Baltra and San Cristobal to Quito are included, along with airport and port transfers.

  • The services of 9 crew members and an experienced English speaking Naturalist guide

    Benefit from the services of 9 crew members and an experienced English speaking Naturalist guide.

  • Complementary soft drinks onboard

    Enjoy complementary soft drinks onboard, including tea, coffee, and water, plus welcome and farewell drinks.

  • Two guided Galapagos excursions a day

    Participate in two guided Galapagos excursions each day.

  • Kayaking and snorkelling

    Engage in kayaking and snorkelling at the permitted points. Wetsuits can be hired onboard for an additional fee.

What's Not Included

  • International flights and visas

    International flights and visas are not included in the tour package.

  • Airport departure transfer on day 7

    The airport departure transfer on day 7 is not included.

  • Tips for the crew, your guide and drivers

    Tips for the crew, your guide, and drivers are not included.

  • Galapagos National Park entrance fee and Migration Control Card

    The Galapagos National Park entrance fee (US$200pp) and Migration Control Card (US$20pp) are not included and are subject to change.

Age Policy

OTG minimum age 5 -  parents have to sign a release of responsibility for children. 

Accommodation

Inspired by the rich history and culture of Ecuador, the Ikala Quito Hotel's 44 rooms are housed in three grand colonial houses which were once home to Ecuadorian aristocracy. Offering a choice of standard rooms or deluxe suites, there's tasteful decor in abundance and artwork painted on canvas or directly onto the walls. Rooms feature ensuite bathrooms and there is free Wi-Fi throughout the property. As well as the onsite restaurant and bar, there are plenty of outdoor areas, including patios, gardens, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views over the city.

Mode of Transport

The tour includes a flight from Quito to Baltra and from San Cristobal back to Quito, with airport and port transfers. On the Galapagos Islands, you'll travel aboard the M/C Anahi catamaran, which serves as your home for 5 days, offering a comfortable and scenic cruise experience.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    During the tour, you will stay at the Ikala Quito Hotel in Quito, which offers a choice of standard rooms or deluxe suites. The hotel is inspired by the rich history and culture of Ecuador and features ensuite bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, an onsite restaurant and bar, and outdoor areas including patios, gardens, and a rooftop terrace. On the Galapagos Islands, you will stay onboard the M/C Anahi catamaran, which offers twin or double cabins with en suite and A/C, and the option to upgrade to a suite upon request.

  • What wildlife can I expect to see during the Galapagos cruise?

    During the Galapagos cruise, you can expect to see a variety of wildlife including sea turtles, flamingos, coastal birds, frigate birds, Nasca boobies, red-footed boobies, storm petrels, sea lions, hybrid iguanas, and several species of boobies and frigates. You may also encounter young sea lions, manta rays, and sea turtles while snorkeling.

  • Are there any activities included in the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes a variety of activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, and panga rides. You will also have guided excursions twice a day in the Galapagos Islands, where you can explore different islands and observe the unique wildlife.

  • What meals are included in the tour package?

    The tour package includes 6 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners. Meals are provided during your stay in Quito and onboard the M/C Anahi catamaran in the Galapagos Islands.

  • Is there a guide provided during the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes the services of an experienced English-speaking naturalist guide who will accompany you during the Galapagos cruise and provide insights into the wildlife and natural history of the islands.

  • What is the policy for children on this tour?

    The minimum age for this tour is 5 years old. Parents are required to sign a release of responsibility for children.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1998

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

Reviews of this operator

Nicola Hodgkinson (Google Reviewer)  

Recently returned from Greece, a...

07-May-2024

Recently returned from Greece, a 5 day tour with OTG. Unfortunately, I had a negative experience on day 2 where I needed local support to get me out of a tricky situation. Thank you to Alexandra Z from Hetco Tours in Athens for helping me continue on with the trip, to the Hotel Zafolia staffing team and to Danielle and team here in the UK for supporting me with the aftermath. Your kindness will not be forgotten and I will pay it forward. I've now booked 3 trips with yourselves and will continue to go back. Thank you all. Honestly, I am SO grateful. Blessings to you all. Nicola

Calvin  

Wonderful experience

05-Jan-2023

Jamal is our tour guide. Right from the start, he created a group chat in whatsapp and if any issues to make sure we contact him. He was on the ball with every issue thrown at him. Luggage being left behind, stragglers wondered off in a different path, hotel room etc. He explains the various site along our route to give us a better understanding of the local cultures. We had a great time, thanks to Jamal.

Trustpilot
Norma Sullivan  

Land of the Northern Lights 5 day tour of Iceland

10-Sep-2021

The Land of Northern Lights tour was a triumph! My tour of Southern Iceland was absolutely wonderful. The venues chosen, the timing allotted at each venue and the variety of things to experience was nearly perfect. Our guide, "Thor", was smart, amusing, full of history and anecdotal stories as well as being incredibly hospitable and helpful. This small group experience was my first, but not my last thanks to On the Go.

Trawls (Google Reviewer)  

On The Go Tours Sri...

05-Feb-2024

On The Go Tours Sri Lanka was an incredible experience that was made even better by our tour guide Akthar. He was incredibly knowledgeable about his country and he loved sharing it with us. The tour covers a wide range of activities so you can truly experience what Sri Lanka is all about. The beautiful 4-5 star hotels at the end of every day was an absolute bonus. Thanks for a great trip OTGT I’m sure this won’t be my last

Xtreme Floor Care (Google Reviewer)  

Traveled through Egypt with On...

30-Nov-2023

Traveled through Egypt with On the Go Tours, professional service, very informative and helpful tour guides. The choice of hotels was excellent... Definitely recommend this company

Gavin Harrigan  

King Tutankhamun 10 day tour of Egypt

16-Sep-2021

I have just returned from my tour with On The Go and it was an amazing trip! From arriving at the airport and meeting the OTG representative, everything was well organised and hassle free.  Our tour guide was Amir. He is awesome!! From the beginning he was so friendly and enthusiastic about showing us around Egypt, giving us loads of information at each place and time to explore ourselves. Learnt so much from him about this fascinating place, and he was always happy to answer more questions.   The trip itself was amazing. There's lots of travelling on this trip, but it's really not too bad, and the sights you see when you get to where you are going are worth it. I'm not a big fan of boats, but the Felluca ride across the Nile was pretty fun too.  On the first day I also did the optional tour of Cairo with Ahmed Helal - another excellent guide from OTG. It's worth doing this add on as you don't spend much time in Cairo, and you go to three very different places.  I'm so glad that I decided to do this trip. It was just ace.  If you're thinking about it too, you should probably just book it. And hopefully you get Amir as your guide.

Paul Kelly (Google Reviewer)  

TOTALLY MOROCCO We booked a 9...

26-Feb-2023

TOTALLY MOROCCO We booked a 9 day tour of Morocco visiting many main cities and places of interest. The coach was very comfortable and we felt safe with the driver Suliman. The guide was Hicham Touraouine and he was fantastic. He spoke perfect English as well as French, Arabic and Berber. He was so kind and considerate and made a good tour great. We particularly enjoyed ‘glamming in the Sahara Desert. So much to see and do and great food and company. We would definitely use On The Go Tours again, especially if Hicham was the guide. Paul & Penny

Joyce Heitler (Google Reviewer)  

I would give this tour...

09-May-2024

I would give this tour group no stars if possible. The tour was not guaranteed but they did not inform me when I booked and they did not have enough people. Way after I booked they said I needed a doctors letter because I was over 70. Also way after booking I was informed I needed travel insurance. They knew my age when I booked. They would not refund my tour even though it was 4 months away.

Sarah Paterson (Google Reviewer)  

Terrible tour of India. For...

27-Dec-2023

Terrible tour of India. For some reason On the Go hadn't realised that my room mate had booked her own room for the first night of tour. So the hotel in Delhi had tried to put me in her room after midnight, by wheeling in an extra bed. She went Crazy!! I then had to sit in hotel reception for hours. While the tour guide said he couldn't find me a room. Throughout the tour the guide consistently ask me and my room mate for money for my room, causing more friction between us. Don't book with this company had the worst experience ever. Go with Intrepid or G Adventure

brandy hoffman (Google Reviewer)  

I had used them once...

09-Aug-2023

I had used them once before and loved them. I decided to try them again for a Baltic tour not knowing that they put me on another Tour group- Baltic vision. Loved that tour but was not impressed they marked up the cost for me over 100%. I understand taking some for yourself because of paperwork, but over double the cost everyone else paid on the tour. Just double check before you book with them that you’re not over paying.

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Prices last published on 05-Oct-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Enquire for huge savings

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