Galapagos Unbound

*Please note that the following information is meant to provide a general overview of your tour. The specifics of your trip will be contained in a pre-trip letter you will receive prior to your confirmed departure.

Important Trip Details:

MEETING PLACE:  Wyndham Hotel Puerto Santa Ana Guayaquil, Ecuador
ARRIVAL TIME: Any point on day one of your trip itinerary. 
TRIP MILES: Varies depending on group size, weather and kayaker's abilities
RETURN TIME: 5:00 PM
TRIP LENGTH: 9 days
AGE LIMIT: Minimum age is 7 years
BOAT TYPE: Sea Kayak
NEAREST AIRPORTS: José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport, GYE

Galapagos Unbound Tour Itinerary 

Day 1: Arrive in Guayaquil

Fly into Guayaquil where all of our Galapagos active tours begin. One of our representatives will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel for the evening.

• Accommodations: Wyndham Hotel Guayaquil

Day 2: Guayaquil to San Cristobal, Wildlife Watching

In the morning, you will be picked up from the hotel by your tour leader and head to the airport for your flight to San Cristobal Island. Upon touching down in the archipelago’s easternmost island, a naturalist guide from Galapagos National Park will greet us and introduce us to the volcanic peaks and abundant vegetation of what is one of the oldest islands in the chain. 

After lunch in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, we will try out our snorkeling and wetsuit gear before loading our luggage onto our support boat. Our first adventure on this Galapagos tour is a 2.5 to 3-hour paddle from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno to Manglecito Beach. Along the way, we will pass Lobos Island, where there is a great opportunity to spot sea lions, blue-footed boobies, brown pelicans, and marine iguanas. Kayaking provides us with a unique vantage point, particularly when it comes to spotting sea turtles coming up to the water’s surface for a breather.

• Accommodations Included: Exclusive Beach Camp
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Kicker Rock, Snorkeling, Galapagos Beach Camp

Day 3 of your active travel adventure begins with a paddle from our Galapagos camp (roughly three hours and dependent on weather conditions). Remember, our support boat is always close by if you need assistance or a rest from paddling. We’ll kayak to another pristine beach for lunch before continuing by catamaran to Kicker Rock*. Once here, we will snorkel through an amazing channel where there are regular sightings of white-tipped reef sharks, Galapagos sharks, sea turtles, and eagle rays, not to mention hundreds of fish and sea stars. 

By late afternoon, we will return to our beach to rest and relax before being treated to a sunset over the Pacific Ocean. Spend another night camping at our exclusive Galapagos oceanfront camp.

*Note: The order of the activities can vary depending on National Park schedules. Additionally, the boat ride to Kicker Rock on Shared Services in groups from 4 to 7 people

• Accommodations Included: Exclusive Beach Camp
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Box Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Travel to Isabela, Tortoise Breeding Center and Snorkeling

Today begins with an early morning flight to the island of Isabela where we will be staying at a locally run, beachfront hotel. After breakfast on arrival, we’ll head out to the Tortoise Breeding Center, an initiative run by the National Park for the conservation of the island’s tortoises. Here, we will stroll through the marshlands and along the beautiful white sand beach of Puerto Villamil.

After lunch, we’ll jump into our kayaks to navigate Isabela's beautiful bay and beachfront area. The bird sightings here are particularly impressive and sometimes include tiny Galapagos penguins, which love to hang out and nest on the rocks here. Bring your snorkeling gear to explore the underwater world, with the pure white sand on the bottom making it a wonderful spot.

*Note: The checked and carry-on baggage allowance for these small planes is 25 lbs per person. If you are over the limit, the airline will charge $2 per lb (subject to availability).

• Accommodations Included: Isabela Hotel
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Sierra Negra Volcano Hiking

This morning, we will head to the interior of Isabela Island for a very different view of the Galapagos. After just under an hour’s drive into the highlands, we’ll begin our hike around Sierra Negra, which boasts the second largest caldera in the world (6.5 miles in diameter) and last erupted in 2005. Our hike around this active volcano may vary from 6 to 10 miles in length and includes viewing the volcano’s spectacular caldera and remarkable lava formations up close. 

After returning to town, the rest of the afternoon is at your leisure to relax on the beach or enjoy a stroll. Dinner this evening is at a restaurant of your choice. 

• Accommodations Included: Isabela Hotel
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 6: Los Tuneles, Snorkeling, and Wildlife Watching

This morning, we’ll travel by boat to Los Tuneles*, a remarkable lava formation comprising a series of arches and caves. After walking along the shore, there will be the opportunity to go snorkeling in the crystal clear waters to marvel at the incredible underwater world. Lunch will be served aboard the boat. 

In the afternoon, we’ll continue to El Finado, an inlet that has been used by local fishermen for many years as a place to rest. We’ll anchor in its calm, shallow waters and spend time snorkeling amongst the submerged lava rocks, caves, and small reefs.

Weather permitting, we will have a BBQ dinner on the beach or dine at a local restaurant near the hotel. 

*Note: Boat ride to Los Tuneles in Shared Services in groups of 4 to 7 people.

• Accommodations Included: Isabela Hotel
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Box Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Travel to Isla Santa Cruz, Galapagos Giant Tortoises, and Lava Tunnels

Rise early for our speed boat ride to Santa Cruz Island, which is home to the Darwin Research Station, the National Park Headquarters, and the buzzing urban hub of Puerto Ayora. Upon arrival, we’ll drive into the lush highlands where wild Galapagos tortoises can be seen lumbering through the dense forests. Spend time walking amongst them as they roam freely and chew on the vegetation.

It’s then time to explore some of Santa Cruz’s lava tunnels, which were created at a time when hot lava snaked through the Earth’s crust. With the help of a local guide, we’ll explore the labyrinth of subterranean twists and turns while marveling at the forces of nature that created them. 

In the late afternoon, we’ll return to the hotel where you’ll have time to relax before heading out to enjoy dinner on your own.

*Note: Boat rides from Isabela to Santa Cruz on Shared Services in groups of 4 to 7 people.

• Accommodations Included: Santa Cruz Hotel
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 8: Tortuga Bay Hike and Kayak

From Puerto Ayora, we’ll embark on a short hike (less than two miles) to reach Tortuga Bay. Running through a field of prickly pear cacti, Matazarno, and Palo Santo trees, the hike is relatively flat and easy, with regular sightings of mockingbirds and finches along the way. At Tortuga Bay, spend time relaxing on its idyllic beach and observe the wildlife coming and going. At one end of the bay, there is the possibility of going snorkeling in the calm waters or kayaking along the coastline. 

The afternoon will be spent kayaking in a calm, shallow lagoon where rays and sharks are regularly spotted. Our day will end with a farewell dinner to celebrate the end of our Galapagos tour. 

*Note: The kayak activity could vary depending on tides.

• Accommodations Included: Santa Cruz Hotel
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The kayak activity could vary depending on tides.

Day 9: Baltra to Guayaquil, Return Home or Extend Your Stay

This morning, you’ll be transferred to Baltra Airport whose original runway was built during WWII by the United States Navy. In the late morning or early afternoon, we’ll return to the mainland city of Guayaquil where your Galapagos Islands holiday comes to an end. Transfer to the international terminal for your return flight home or continue your travels through South America.

• Meals Included: Breakfast

Galapagos Travel Arrangements

Travel to Guayaquil, Ecuador: 

The simplest way to get to Guayaquil is to connect through one of several U.S. cities with direct flights, including New York City (JFK), Miami (MIA), and Fort Lauderdale (FLL).

Airport Transfer Upon Arrival: 

An airport transfer upon arrival is included in your package price. Please provide your international flight details, and we will arrange transportation to your hotel in Guayaquil, where the tour officially begins.

If you have booked additional hotel nights or extensions at the end of your trip, you will need to arrange your own transportation. The hotels we use offer complimentary shuttle services, and taxis are readily available at the airport.

Galapagos Weather

The Galápagos has two main seasons: the cool and dry season that lasts from July through December and the hot and rainy season that goes from January through June. The weather remains relatively temperate throughout both seasons and so it’s always a good time to visit the Galapagos Islands.

The “peak season” for tourism is usually attributed as lasting from mid-December through mid-January and mid-June through September. However, since the Galápagos National Park Service has various travel restrictions, you will never have to deal with hordes of tourists and can instead enjoy the natural serenity of the islands in relative solitude.

When To Go?

Galapagos Dry Season

The dry season in Galápagos is known as the garúa season, and this is when temperatures begin to drop.

• As cold waters travel north from the Antarctica region, the climate becomes more subtropical than tropical.
• One of the most visible effects of the subtropical climate is the misty rain that coats the island peaks and turns the vegetation green. As garúa translates to “drizzle” in English, it’s a fitting name for the misty season.
• The garúa season attracts more marine mammals, fish, and birds despite the colder waters because the Humboldt Current brings up nutrient and plankton rich water.
• The drizzle largely effects the highlands while the lowlands continue to have an arid climate, and there’s plenty of wildlife to observe in both.
• The sea is swarming with fishes, and so it’s one of the best times to observe seabirds and Galápagos penguins who are enjoying the feast swimming below the surface.

Galapagos Rainy Season

The rainy season extends from January through June, and the water and weather is at its warmest during these months. Explore the shores of Galápagos during ideal tropical weather on our Galápagos Adventure.

• The tropical rain showers are at their heaviest January through March, but although the rainfall can be heavy the storms are generally short.
• The predominately sunny days paired with the warm waters coming down from Colombia and Panama make for great snorkeling weather.
• While the weather is at its clearest and the water at its smoothest from March to April, there are less fish to see in the warm waters; rather, more fish can be found later in the year.

Click Here to Access Our Helpful Weather and Wildlife Guide

ROW Adventures Physical Requirements  

Here at ROW Adventures our first and foremost goal is for you to have an enjoyable and safe experience. While most of our trips are suitable for beginners, some of our trips are more active than others and it’s important that you understand the physical requirement of the trip you choose. 

All of our trips are active adventures that involve some level of physical exertion and possible exposure to the elements including but not limited to wind, rain, heat, sun, cold temperatures and cold water conditions. ROW Adventures is able to accommodate people with physical limitations, disabilities and medical conditions; please speak with your Adventure Consultant if you think you will require any additional assistance while on the trip. We ask that you consult your doctor if you have health or medical conditions that could impact your ability to participate in an active and outdoor adventure. In general, all trip participants must be able to do the following:  

• Wear all protective and safety equipment that are required by ROW Adventures and recommended/required by industry wide standards.
• Load and unload, on their own or with the aid of a qualified companion, the bus and/or van providing transportation for ROW Adventure activities.
• Reach the water access points (put-in and take-out) on their own, or with the aid of a qualified companion.
• Enter and exit a raft, kayak and/or inflatable kayak on their own or with the aid of a qualified companion.
• Remain seated and balanced in a floating raft, canoe, kayak or inflatable kayak w/ the aid of adaptive equipment, if necessary.
• Float on their back when entering moving and still water. The participant must be capable of turning from face-down to face-up in the water with the aid of a Personal Floatation Device and must be able to hold their breath while under water.
• Remain calm and keep breathing under control in the event of a swim.
• Climb into the kayak, with the help of another person, should an involuntary swim happen at any point on the water.
• Make progress toward the shoreline or a boat by swimming in moving water and must be able to exit the water and ascend the shoreline once reached.
• Participate as an active paddler when instructed by the guide for the duration of trip. 
• Move about the campsite on their own or with the aid of a qualified companion on all trips that include overnight camping and/or lunch.

Physical Preparedness

Whether you are an avid sea kayaker, or it is your first time, you’ll enjoy these incredible trips, and share in our passion for adventure, commitment to conserving the environment, and relishing unique experiences. For those new to the sport, kayaking is easy to learn in the sheltered waters that we visit, and we provide all of the camping gear, kayaking equipment and guidance needed. In addition, we keep our groups small to allow you to not only travel intimately among nature, but to ensure you receive the necessary attention from our guides.

Galapagos Unbound Packing List

Overview:

The packing list below is designed to help you plan, prepare, and outfit yourself for your upcoming Galapagos adventure. Our recommendations and suggestions are tailored to your tour type, based on the outlined itinerary, the unique geographic region, and our extensive knowledge of the Galapagos Islands. We encourage you to use this list as a guide and customize it with your favorite travel essentials!

Gear Provided by ROW Adventures

Adventure Unbound supplies all necessary equipment for your tour, including camping gear such as a tent, cot, sleeping pad, sheets, and a pillow with a pillowcase. For kayaking and snorkeling, you'll be provided with personal flotation devices (PFDs), paddles, kayaks, and one 10L dry bag for your day bag.

Additionally, we will provide a shorty wetsuit, snorkel mask, fins, and a PFD.

To make the most of your Adventure Unbound experience, we recommend traveling light. Packing lightly for Galapagos trips is essential for several reasons:

1. Inter-island flights have a baggage limit of 25 pounds per person.
2. You'll need to carry your luggage with you.
3. You won’t require much for this adventure!

Luggage Recommendations for You Galapagos Adventure

We recommend avoiding checking luggage whenever possible. If you must check a bag, be sure to pack essential or hard-to-replace items in your carry-on. During the trip, you'll use three main bags, plus an optional additional bag. Here's a breakdown:

1. Duffel Bag or Roll-On (Carry-On Size): This should meet carry-on requirements. If you prefer not to carry a duffel through airports, pack a light duffel inside a roll-on bag. In Guayaquil, you can transfer the items you need for the Galapagos into the duffel and leave the roll-on at the hotel. On your return flight, this same duffel can be used for souvenirs. We recommend a medium-size duffel that fits within carry-on limits. If you prefer, you can use the roll-on bag instead, but keep in mind that wheels add extra weight.

2. Small Day Pack: This is considered your carry-on “personal item.” We suggest a pack measuring about 18” high x 12” wide x 8” deep, with additional outside pockets of about 2” deep. This bag is perfect for carrying medications, books, games, and other essentials during the flight. In Ecuador, it's ideal for holding items you'll need during the day—whether kayaking, hiking, or exploring towns.

3. Dry Bag (Provided by ROW): This small bag will be used for your sea kayaking in the Galapagos. It holds items like your rain gear, sunscreen, sun shirt, binoculars, and camera—things you'll want to keep handy while on your kayak. The dry bag sits on top of your kayak for easy access throughout the day.

4. Optional “Wet Gear Bag”: This is for those who prefer an additional option to separate wet gear. The bag is optional, but it can be useful for storing items that you don't want to mix with dry items during the trip.

Essentials

• Passport – Must be valid for at least six (6) months after your arrival date.
• Money Belt – Securely carry your passport, travel documents, and cash in a concealed money belt.
• Photocopy of Passport – Keep a photocopy of your passport in a ziplock bag stored separately in your luggage. Leave a copy with family or friends at home as an additional precaution.
• Air Tickets – Carry a printed copy of your air tickets, including ticket numbers, stored separately in your luggage.
• Cash – Bring $200 for the Galapagos National Park fee and $20 for the Isabela Island Arrival Tax.
• Gratuities – Set aside cash for tips (details provided in your trip documents).
• Credit/Debit Cards – Ensure your card is internationally accepted and has chip technology. Notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid fraud detection holds.
• Battery Pack/Power Bank – Essential for charging devices while camping where electrical outlets may not be available.
• Watch or Travel Clock – A phone with an alarm function can also suffice.
• TSA-Approved Lock – Use for securing luggage when it’s not on your person (optional).
• Lightweight Clothing – Pack quick-drying nylon or polyester materials. On Isabela Island, hotels offer laundry services, or you can hand-wash clothes in the sink.

Clothing

• 1 pair of lightweight nylon pants (zip-off legs are a versatile option).
• 1 additional comfortable pair of pants or a skirt (wear one item on the plane).
• 1 pair of nylon shorts (men can use them as swimwear).
• 1 swimsuit for women.
• 2 T-shirts or polo shirts.
• 1 pair of lightweight pajamas.
• 1 short-sleeve button-up shirt (nylon or poly-cotton).
• 1 long-sleeve shirt for sun protection (tight-weave nylon shirts with SPF protection are ideal).
• 1 long-sleeve button-up shirt for town (pack in a ziplock bag to minimize wrinkles).
• 1 lightweight fleece or polyester sweater/jacket for cool mornings and evenings.
• 3–4 pairs of underwear.
• 1 wide-brim, tie-on hat (floppy nylon hats pack well; a baseball cap and bandana also work).
• 1 lightweight raincoat or windbreaker with waterproof qualities.
• 3 pairs of light socks and 1 thicker pair for hiking.
• 1 pair of sturdy sandals with ankle straps for kayaking, beaches, and town walks (Chaco, Teva, or similar brands).
• 1 pair of sturdy tennis shoes or lightweight hiking boots if extra ankle support is needed.

Water Gear

• 1 pair of paddling gloves (optional, for blister prevention; fingerless bike gloves work well).
• 1 Lycra “rash guard” shirt (optional, adds warmth and helps with wetsuit ease).
• Snorkel Gear – Mask, fins, snorkel, and wetsuit are available to borrow at no cost (not counted in your weight allowance).

Additional Gear

• Lip balm with sunscreen for daily use.
• Sunglasses (polarized lenses are excellent for wildlife viewing).
• Headstrap for glasses or sunglasses (e.g., Chums or Croakies).
• Extra sunglasses or prescription glasses.
• Flashlight or headlamp (headlamps are ideal); include extra batteries and bulbs.
• 1 wide-mouth water bottle.
• Water filtration system - Bringing this along will help reduce our use of single use plastic. Ecuador has nearly perfect tap water that can be easily filtered so it wont upset your bodys system. We recomend you bring a filter such as a LifeStraw, Grayle, Steripen, or Sawyer Squeeze
• Compact towel for camping (beach towels are provided on snorkel boats).
• Bandana for sun protection or cooling off.
• Small sewing kit (optional).
• Travel-sized detergent for handwashing clothes (3–4 oz.).
• Plastic bags: Four or five 11-gallon kitchen garbage bags (for wet clothes or dirty shoes) and a few 1-gallon ziplock bags for packing lotions or other items prone to spills.
• Camera equipment, including a waterproof camera or GoPro for snorkeling and extra memory cards/batteries.
• Binoculars (optional but great for bird and wildlife watching).
• Books, a notepad, pen, and small games (e.g., playing cards).

Toiletries and First Aid

• Basic hygiene products: toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, etc. (keep liquids under 3.38 oz./ 100ml for carry-on).
• Insect repellent (lotion or oil; spray is not permitted) – While biting insects in the Galapagos are generally minimal, guests have recently reported a higher-than-usual presence of mosquitoes at camp. We recommend the following options for protection:
  • Natural option: Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE) is CDC-recommended and effective for mosquito protection.
  • Common and effective options: DEET-based repellents and Picaridin are both highly effective in warding off insects.
  • Additional protection: Consider permethrin treated clothing, which repels insects for up to 70 washes. Loose-fitting, treated long-sleeved shirts and pants can provide maximum comfort and protection during camping.
• Biodegrable sunscreen - we recommend Stream2Sea as an all-natural option. Use 30 SPF or higher, as sun protection is crucial under the intense equatorial sun, which reflects strongly off both the sky and water.
• Pre-moistened toilette packets or disposable shower wipes for refreshing during camping days.
• Prescriptions and any necessary personal medications – Ensure you bring all necessary prescriptions and any emergency medicine, such as an EpiPen or Benadryl.
• Heavy-duty skin lotion for soothing dry, sun-exposed, or saltwater-affected skin.
• Small squeeze bottle of hand-sanitizer gel.
• * Shampoo and soap – Biodegradable options are best; multi-purpose varieties are convenient. (Due to park regulations, soap cannot be used in the sea, but a designated bucket at camp is available for proper disposal.)
• Toothbrush and Toothpaste – Biodegradable options are preferred.
• Female urinary device – Allows women to urinate standing up without removing clothing. Popular brands include Gogirl and Shewee.
• General hygiene products and shaving essentials.
• Lip balm with sunscreen to prevent chapped lips.
• Medications – Include Dramamine for motion sickness, Benadryl for allergic reactions, and any other necessary over-the-counter or prescription medications.

* Due to our Park Service permit, the use of soap in the sea is not allowed. However, at camp, you may use soap to wash. We have a designated bucket to collect the soapy water for proper disposal.

ROW Adventures - Recommended Galapagos Reading List

Here are a number of books to consider
Our top two picks are

• The Reluctant Mr. Darwin: An Intimate Portrait of Charles Darwin and the Making of His Theory of Evolution (Great Discoveries) by David Quammen (Author) An engaging read that helps us understand the world at the time of Darwin and why he took so long to publish his theory of evolution
• Weiner, J. (1994). Beak of the finch: A story of evolution in our time. Vintage Books This chronicles the research done by two scientists who spent 20 years flushing out Darwin’s theory of evolution A compelling story that will surely help you appreciate the importance of the Galapagos Islands 
• Constant, P. (2007). Marine Life of the galápagos: A diver's guide to the fishes, whales, dolphins and marine invertebrates. Cordee
• Ferreiro, Larrie D. (2013). Measure of the Earth: The Enlightenment Expedition That Reshaped Our World. Basic Books A fun read filled with human drama and that expands our understanding of geography and how we understand our earth today
• Fitter, Julian, et al. (2016). Wildlife of Galápagos. Princeton University Press
• Grubb, K. G. (1930). Amazon and Andes. Mathuen & Co. Ltd. Written by a distant cousin of ROW Founder Peter Grubb, this is a light read of an adventure-focused missionary in the early 1900’s
• Harris, M. P. (1992). A field guide to the Birds of Galapagos. HarperCollins
• Hassaurek, F., & Gardiner, C. H. (1967). Four years among the Ecuadorians. Southern Illinois University Press
• Hickman, C. P. (1998). A field guide to sea stars and other echinoderms of galápagos. Sugar Spring Press
• Horwell, D., & Oxford, P. (2005). Galápagos wildlife: A visitor's guide. Bradt Travel Guides
• Hurtado, O. (1980). Political power in Ecuador. Routledge
• Jackson, M. H. (1993). Galapagos, a natural history. University of Calgary Press
• Kricher, J. C. (1999). A neotropical companion: An introduction to the animals, plants, and ecosystems of the New World Tropics. Princeton University Press
• McIntyre, L. (1988). The incredible Incas and their timeless land. Nactional Geographic Society
• Schofield, E. K. (1984). Plants of the Galápagos Islands: Field Guide and Travel Journal. Universe Books
• Treherne, J. E. (2011). The Galapagos Affair. Vintage Digital
• White, A., & Epler, B. (1986). Galapagos Guide
• Whymper, E. (1990). Travels amongst the Great Andes of the equator. Murray
• Wittmer, M., & Antonio, M. W. J. (2010). Floreana. Editorial Galápagos

Additional Galapagos and Sea Kayaking Information 

Galapagos Islands Weather Forecast - Check the local weather before you go. 

Trip Adviser - Read reviews from past guests. 

Galapagos Unbound Website - Here you can find information on other Galapagos tours and mainland Ecuador extensions. 

Quito Tourism Guide - Learn more about the UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Unique Wildlife of the Galapagos Islands - Learn about the fasinating wildlife you will see on your trip!

What to eat in the Galapagos Islands - Get your tastebuds excited about unique flavors of dishes of the islands.

Top 5 Family Vacations for 2023 - Learn about which trips we recommend for families and which adventure is right for you.

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