Galapagos Encounters - 7 days
Galapagos Encounters - 7 days
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:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 16
Age range:
5-90
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Please contact On The Go Tours with specific dietary requests
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
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
Itinerary
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
1 Select your preferred date
2024 Dec
2024 Jan
2025 Feb
2025 Mar
2025 Apr
2025 May
2025 Jun
2025 Jul
2025 Aug
2025 Sep
2025 Oct
2025 Nov
2025 Dec
2025
Thursday - Wednesday
Nov 21, 2024 - Nov 27, 2024Thursday - Wednesday
Dec 05, 2024 - Dec 11, 2024Thursday - Wednesday
Dec 19, 2024 - Dec 25, 2024Thursday - Wednesday
Jan 02, 2025 - Jan 08, 2025Thursday - Wednesday
Jan 16, 2025 - Jan 22, 2025Thursday - Wednesday
Jan 30, 2025 - Feb 05, 2025Thursday - Wednesday
Feb 13, 2025 - Feb 19, 2025Thursday - Wednesday
Feb 27, 2025 - Mar 05, 2025Thursday - Wednesday
Mar 13, 2025 - Mar 19, 2025Thursday - Wednesday
Mar 27, 2025 - Apr 02, 2025Thursday - Wednesday
Apr 10, 2025 - Apr 16, 2025Thursday - Wednesday
Apr 24, 2025 - Apr 30, 2025Thursday - Wednesday
May 08, 2025 - May 14, 2025Thursday - Wednesday
May 22, 2025 - May 28, 2025Thursday - Wednesday
Jun 05, 2025 - Jun 11, 2025Thursday - Wednesday
Jun 19, 2025 - Jun 25, 2025Thursday - Wednesday
Jul 03, 2025 - Jul 09, 2025Thursday - Wednesday
Jul 17, 2025 - Jul 23, 2025Thursday - Wednesday
Jul 31, 2025 - Aug 06, 2025Thursday - Wednesday
Aug 14, 2025 - Aug 20, 2025Thursday - Wednesday
Aug 28, 2025 - Sep 03, 2025Thursday - Wednesday
Sep 11, 2025 - Sep 17, 2025Thursday - Wednesday
Sep 25, 2025 - Oct 01, 2025Thursday - Wednesday
Oct 09, 2025 - Oct 15, 2025Thursday - Wednesday
Oct 23, 2025 - Oct 29, 2025Thursday - Wednesday
Nov 06, 2025 - Nov 12, 2025Thursday - Wednesday
Nov 20, 2025 - Nov 26, 2025Thursday - Wednesday
Dec 04, 2025 - Dec 10, 2025Book 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
Rated 5* on Trust Pilot & ABTA Protected.