Our Signature Tour of the Galápagos Islands is the ultimate adventure, and we’ve just made it better than ever.
Why This Tour:
- With hundreds of 5-star reviews, Galápagos Unbound is the top choice for travelers seeking an unforgettable adventure.
- We go above and beyond to accommodate the desires of all travelers to ensure they get the most out of their Galápagos Islands vacation.
- Our exclusive Galápagos camping experience is truly unique and offers intimate wildlife encounters, making it one of the best beachside eco-camps.
- Explore secluded coves and coastlines while kayaking amongst a diverse array of marine life.
- Travel with one of the pioneers of Galápagos land-based travel, with Galápagos Unbound advocating for low-impact experiences in the archipelago.
- Our guides are personally trained in the “Galápagos Unbound Difference,” ensuring they deliver what will undoubtedly be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
- Check out our itinerary below, and you can immediately see the Galápagos Unbound difference. We pioneered Galápagos land tours and have consistently advocated for environmentally low-impact travel through these utterly enchanting "enchanted isles."
Trip Overview
- This Galápagos Unbound tour was featured in the New York Times travel section on January 8, 2006, in an article by Tim Neville. While some details of the original itinerary have been modified since then, the tour's essence as an unparalleled multisport adventure in the Galapagos remains unchanged. Our certified local guides continue to work closely with the Galápagos Park Service to deliver an exceptional experience.
- Immerse yourself in the diverse wildlife and ecosystems of the Galápagos Islands with our Galápagos Unbound Signature Tour. This unique, small-group tour takes you beyond the typical cruise to snorkel, hike, and kayak alongside iconic species while supporting the local community. Experience an intimate, eco-conscious journey through the archipelago's unique islands and habitats on an adventure you’ll never forget.
- No words can fully convey the awe of getting up close with birds and animals that show little fear of humans. On a Galápagos Islands vacation, you can swim with playful sea lions, stand within feet of vibrant blue-footed boobies, and see marine iguanas and giant tortoises found only here. The wonders of the Galápagos are truly indescribable.
- This Galápagos land tour combines gentle paddles to remote coves with nights spent camping on pristine beaches—an experience that is one-of-a-kind. You’ll hike to the rim of an active volcano, come face-to-face with marine life while snorkeling, and experience awe-inspiring sunsets over the Pacific Ocean. We trek and kayak to secluded sites inaccessible to larger groups, encountering wildlife and embracing the journey itself. As the only Galápagos land-based travel experience that includes camping on deserted beaches, Galápagos Unbound provides a distinctive experience.
- This Galápagos active trip is also one of the most sustainable eco-tours in the archipelago, offering a minimally impactful experience that supports both the islands' environment and local communities. Compared to a cruise, this trip has a smaller carbon footprint by using far less fuel per person. More of the fees from your Galápagos Islands holiday will go directly to islanders, bringing them greater economic benefits. Uniquely, the trip includes camping on an approved island beach using ultra-low-impact techniques that exceed "Leave No Trace" standards.
Additional Information:
The Galapagos Islands have been a protected national park of Ecuador since 1959. These remote islands are renowned worldwide for their unique natural history and the remarkable, friendly creatures that inhabit them. To preserve this exceptional environment, access to the islands is highly regulated. While most tours to the Galapagos are cruise-based, aboard yachts carrying between ten and ninety people, our journey offers something different.
This exclusive experience allows small groups to visit sites off the beaten path, inaccessible to larger, more conventional tours. We explore in the most environmentally-friendly way possible—by walking and sea kayaking—avoiding more intrusive modes of travel. Our reward is not only the stunning wildlife and landscapes we encounter, but also the joy of reaching these remarkable places under our own power.
Our itinerary covers five islands, each with its own diverse wildlife and ecosystems. Every part of this journey offers something beyond the destination itself, and we’re excited to provide an unforgettable experience for the adventurous souls who join us.
Images & Videos
Itinerary
Day 1
Day 2
After breakfast at the hotel, a Galápagos Unbound representative will take you back to the airport for your flight to the Galápagos Islands. Once we land on San Cristóbal, the easternmost island in the group, a naturalist guide from the Galápagos National Park will meet us there, marking the start of our journey.
After lunch in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, we will try on our snorkeling gear and wetsuits before embarking on our first kayaking excursion. Our two- to three-hour paddle takes us beneath volcanic peaks and along Lobos Island's shores, offering sightings of blue-footed boobies and marine iguanas. This afternoon, we’ll arrive at our exclusive Galápagos oceanfront eco-camp destination at Manglecito Beach.
Activity: Sea Kayaking
Distance: Approx. 6-8 km (3.5–5 miles)
Est Time: 2-3 hrs
Difficulty: Easy to moderate – suitable for most people, even beginners
Day 3
Explore Galapagos Beach Camp
After a relaxing morning spent exploring Manglecito Beach, we will embark on a three-hour kayaking trip to another picturesque beach. Should you become fatigued or require help, our support boat will be close by to assist. Lunch will be enjoyed at a secluded beach, with the sounds of nature as our soundtrack.
After lunch, we will go snorkeling at Kicker Rock, where you may spot Galápagos sharks and eagle rays if you're lucky. In the mid-afternoon, we'll return to our beach camp, where you can spend the rest of the day relaxing while seabirds soar overhead. Fingers crossed, we will be treated to a spectacular sunset over the Pacific Ocean.
Note: Boat ride to Kicker Rock on Shared Services in groups of 4 to 7 people.
Activity: Sea Kayaking
Distance: Approx. 8 km (5 miles)
Est Time: 3 hrs
Difficulty: Moderate – longer paddle, support available if needed
Activity: Snorkeling at Kicker Rock
Est Time: 1-2 hrs
Difficulty: Easy – suitable for most participants, though be prepared for cold water temperatures
Day 4
San Cristobal Island – Flight to Isabela Island – Tortoise Breeding Center – Wetlands Kayaking
This morning we depart camp early and return by boat to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, then fly onward to Isabela Island. After settling into our beachfront hotel, we visit the Tortoise Breeding Center, operated by the Galapagos National Park to conserve the island’s iconic giant tortoises. We also explore Puerto Villamil’s white sand beaches and stroll through the surrounding wetlands, home to abundant birdlife and unique coastal ecosystems.
In the afternoon, we take to our kayaks for a peaceful paddle through Isabela’s sheltered bays and lagoons. This area is excellent for spotting small Galapagos penguins, blue-footed boobies, and herons, and we often glide past sea turtles resting near the surface. Kayaking in these calm waters allows us to connect with the wildlife and scenery at a relaxed pace.
Note: Baggage allowance for these small planes is 25 lbs per person. Overweight luggage may be charged $2 per lb (subject to availability).
Activity: Kayaking
Distance: Approx. 3–5 km (2–3 miles)
Est Time: 1.5–2 hrs
Difficulty: Easy – relaxing paddle in calm waters
Day 5
Sierra Negra Volcano
Awake early to witness the sunrise before we journey to the highlands of Isabela Island for a hike around the Sierra Negra Volcano. After just under an hour’s drive, we’ll begin exploring this active volcano, home to one of the world's largest calderas, measuring over 6 miles across (6.5 miles in diameter). Sierra Negra last erupted in 2005 and offers spectacular views of its expansive caldera, remarkable lava formations, and the surrounding landscapes. Depending on the trail, the hike may range from 6 to 10 miles, providing an unforgettable perspective on the Galapagos' unique volcanic terrain.
After returning to town, you'll have the rest of the afternoon at your leisure. Relax on the beach, explore the town, or simply unwind at your hotel. Dinner this evening is at a restaurant of your choice.
Activity: Hiking around Sierra Negra Volcano
Distance: 6-10 miles (10-16 km)
Est Time: 5-6 hrs
Elevation Details:
- Starting Point: Approximately 800 meters (2,625 feet) at the National Park entrance
- Highest Point: Around 1,021 meters (3,350 feet) at the crater rim
- Elevation Gain: Approximately 221 meters (725 feet)
Terrain: The trail features gradual inclines, traversing lush vegetation and volcanic terrain. It's a moderately strenuous hike, suitable for those in good physical condition.
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging – some steep sections and high altitude
Day 6
Los Tuneles, Snorkeling, Wildlife Watching
We’ll set out on a boat ride to Los Tuneles, a breathtaking natural formation of lava arches and caves created when volcanic lava met seawater. After a short walk along the shore, you’ll have the chance to snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, revealing a stunning underwater world teeming with marine life. Lunch will be served aboard the boat.
In the afternoon, we’ll sail to El Finado, a serene inlet historically used by local fishermen as a resting spot. Here, you can snorkel among submerged lava rocks, caves, small reefs, and vibrant tropical fish. Keep an eye out for white-tip reef sharks as you explore this peaceful haven.
Weather permitting, we’ll end the day with a beachfront barbecue. Alternatively, dinner will be at a local restaurant near the hotel.
Note: The boat ride to Los Tuneles operates as a shared service, accommodating groups of 4 to 7 people.
Activity: Snorkeling at Los Tuneles
Est Time: 1-2 hrs
Difficulty: Moderate – snorkeling in open water with possible current, but guided
Activity: Snorkeling at El Finado
Est Time: 1-2 hrs
Difficulty: Easy to moderate – calm waters, shallow reefs
Day 7
Isabela Island – Santa Cruz Island – Tortuga Bay
This morning we board a speedboat for Santa Cruz Island, beginning our explorations with a visit to the world-renowned Darwin Research Station and the headquarters of the Galapagos National Park in Puerto Ayora. Later we drive through the lush highlands to see wild Galapagos tortoises foraging in their natural habitat and walk through the island’s lava tunnels to learn more about the archipelago’s volcanic history.
Afterward, we head to Tortuga Bay, considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the Galapagos. A box lunch gives us more time to relax at the beach instead of returning to town. The afternoon is at leisure to enjoy Tortuga Bay as you like — stroll the long white sand beach, swim, or simply soak in the scenery. Guests are welcome to snorkel or kayak on their own, though these activities are optional and not guided.
Activity: Hiking to Tortuga Bay
Distance: 3 km (1.8 miles)
Est Time: 45 min–1 hr
Difficulty: Easy – mostly flat trail with minimal elevation
Day 8
Tortuga Bay + Santa Cruz Island
We’ll start the day with a visit to the Trapiche Sugar Mill, where you’ll learn about the traditional process of sugar production and the history of this fascinating local industry. From there, we’ll head to the Highlands, where you’ll have the opportunity to explore the unique environment, home to the famous giant tortoises in their natural habitat.
In the afternoon, we’ll enjoy a relaxing kayak experience in the peaceful lagoon, where rays and sharks are often spotted gliding through the clear waters. To wrap up the day, we’ll gather for a farewell dinner to celebrate the unforgettable experiences of our Galápagos adventure.
Note: The kayak activity may vary depending on the tides.
Activity: Kayaking in the Highlands Lagoon
Distance: Approx. 2-3 km (1.2-1.9 miles)
Est Time: 1-2 hrs
Difficulty: Easy – calm water, short paddle
Day 9
This morning, you’ll be transferred to the airport on Santa Cruz Island to catch your return flight to Guayaquil, where we expect you will return by 5 PM. From Guayaquil airport, you can transfer to the international terminal for your flight home, the international terminal for your flight home, or extend your trip to visit Peru and Machu Picchu.
Featured Accommodation
Dates & Rates
| Dates | Adult (USD) | Child (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | ||
| Nov 08, 2025 to Nov 16, 2025 Lowest Tier Price | $6,200£0€0$0$0 | $6,200£0€0$0$0 |
| Dec 22, 2025 to Dec 30, 2025 Christmas in the Galapagos & Free Mainland Ecuador → Galapagos Flights* | $6,200£0€0$0$0 | $6,200£0€0$0$0 |
| 2026 | ||
| Jan 10, 2026 to Jan 18, 2026 Lowest Tier Price | $6,690£0€0$0$0 | $6,690£0€0$0$0 |
| Feb 13, 2026 to Feb 21, 2026 Lowest Tier & Free Mainland Ecuador → Galapagos Flights | $6,690£0€0$0$0 | $6,690£0€0$0$0 |
| Apr 04, 2026 to Apr 12, 2026 Lowest Tier Price | $6,690£0€0$0$0 | $6,690£0€0$0$0 |
| May 09, 2026 to May 17, 2026 Lowest Tier Price | $6,690£0€0$0$0 | $6,690£0€0$0$0 |
| Jun 13, 2026 to Jun 21, 2026 Lowest Tier & Free Mainland Ecuador → Galapagos Flights | $6,690£0€0$0$0 | $6,690£0€0$0$0 |
| Jul 04, 2026 to Jul 12, 2026 Lowest Tier & Free Mainland Ecuador → Galapagos Flights | $6,690£0€0$0$0 | $6,690£0€0$0$0 |
| Nov 07, 2026 to Nov 15, 2026 Lowest Tier Price | $6,690£0€0$0$0 | $6,690£0€0$0$0 |
| Dec 12, 2026 to Dec 20, 2026 Lowest Tier Price | $6,690£0€0$0$0 | $6,690£0€0$0$0 |
| Dec 21, 2026 to Dec 29, 2026 Christmas in Galapagos! Lowest Tier Price | $6,690£0€0$0$0 | $6,690£0€0$0$0 |
Supplementary Information
2025 Pricing:
- 4 - 7 Guests: $6,900 per person
- 8 - 12 Guests: $6,200 per person
December High Season Supplement: $375 per person
Single Supplement for Solo Travelers: $800
FREE Galápagos Flights: Mainland Ecuador to Galápagos Islands airfare included on select departures!
- Dec 13 - 21, 2025 *Free Ecuador to Galapagos Islands airfare
- Dec 22 - 30, 2025 *Free Ecuador to Galapagos Islands airfare
2026 Pricing:
- 4 - 7 Guests: $7,190 per person
- 8 - 12 Guests: $6,690 per person
December High Season Supplement: $500 per person
Single Supplement for Solo Travelers: $995
FREE Galápagos Flights: Mainland Ecuador to Galápagos Islands airfare included on select departures!
- Jan 10 - 18, 2026 *Free Ecuador to Galapagos Islands airfare
- Feb 13 - 21, 2026 *Free Ecuador to Galapagos Islands airfare
- June 13 - 21, 2026 *Free Ecuador to Galapagos Islands airfare
- July 4 -12, 2026 *Free Ecuador to Galapagos Islands airfare
2027 Dates (pricing coming soon):
- Feb 20 - 28, 2027
Additional Budgeting Information
In 2025, please budget an additional $1,135 for flights and fees. The amounts for 2026 & 2027 are yet to be determined.
This amount is broken down as follows:
- $615 per person for round-trip flights from mainland Ecuador to the Galápagos
- $300 per person for internal flights and boat transfers within the Galápagos
- $20 per person for the Tourism Migration Control Tax (TCT)
Galápagos National Park Entrance Fee
This fee must be paid in cash upon arrival at the park.
- $200 for visitors aged 12 and older
- $100 for children aged 11 and younger
Tiered Pricing Explained
Our trips are budgeted for full or near full sign-ups which enables us to offer trips at the lowest possible price. Because of numerous fixed costs, it is more expensive to operate a trip for a small group. Therefore, on some of our trips, in order to avoid having to cancel a trip, we have a “tier-pricing” system to avoid canceling a trip with a low number of sign ups. We have found that most people also prefer this alternative to having a trip cancelled. Thus, you will note on our trip prices there may be different price for 6-8 people versus 9-10, versus 11-12. We may initially invoice you at the higher tier price, and refund the difference depending on the final group size. Trip costs quoted are based on foreign exchange rates current at the time of this printing. We reserve the right to raise the trip fee if there are exceptional cost increases beyond our control. Prices are based on double occupancy. If desired, we will strive to pair you up with another single guest to elimate the single supplement fee however, please note that this is not always possible.
Included:
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Full service of our Adventure Consultants
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Hand-crafted itineraries
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Professional Galapagos Naturalist Guide
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Experienced English-speaking guide(s)
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Double accommodation in hotels and for camping
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Specialized activity guides based on activity of trip (kayaking, biking, hiking, etc.)
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All necessary kayaking, camping and snorkeling equipment
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All transportation as noted on the itinerary
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All meals and drinks as noted on the itinerary
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Private pre-tour orientation meeting
Not Included
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International flights to Ecuador
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Ecuador to Galapagos round trip flights (*Free Ecuador to Galapagos flights may be offered on select dates)
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Internal island transfers
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National Park fee and Immigration Tax
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Gratuities
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Items of a personal nature
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Alcoholic beverages
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Travel insurance of any type
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Additional hotel nights pre or post tour
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Cost of hospitalization or evacuation if necessary
Reviews
Galapagos Unbound Island Adventure - Dec 2022
All of the superlatives which describe perfect and wonderful apply to our experiences on this adventure in Quito and the Galapagos. Our Lead Guide Henry, and his wingman/boss Juan were exemplary in keeping all of our group engaged, educated, and secure in all pursuits. Our group was exceptionally well-suited to the adventures, due in part to Henry's intuitiveness how to read the group and keep us continually informed and aware of the next exciting adventure around the corner! We thoroughly enjoyed camping, kayaking, snorkeling, hiking Sierra Negra, touring all attractions including historic Quito, tortoise preserves to Mr Cabrera's El Trapiche Ecologico Galapagos! Every event was an education and a treat. Our Parque Nacional Galapagos guides were intelligent, informative and their exuberance in teaching us all about their treasured Galapagos Islands astonished us, and rewarded us every day of our adventure. Please extend our sincere gratitude to Christian (San Cristobal), Julio (Isabela), Darwin (Isabel), and Vivi (Santa Cruz). Kudos to ROW and all of the guides, hoteliers, and all residents of the Galapagos that we encountered - all contributed to our unforgettable Galapagos Unbound adventure. May I further extend thanks to both Henry and Juan for their professionalism, knowledge, friendliness, and caring attitudes. I feel like we can truly call them friends.
South American Adventure
Travel is gearing up again after the still period of travel restrictions. We started in booking Galapagos Unbound and before we were done booking it, we decided to also add the Peru Unbound adventure, as well. ROW offers solid, personal, very responsive guidance on every step of the arrangements, including help in various country-specific proofs of vaccination status. The Galapagos tour, active in nature with close-up kayaking and snorkeling opportunities, with our local knowledgeable guide, was exceptional. With completion of the tour, the flight from the island to Quito became the beginning of Adventure #2 with a flight to Lima to begin Peru Unbound. "How do you train for hiking Machu Picchu?" we were asked. It starts with taking the stairs rather than an escalator whenever the opportunity arises. Peru is also an exceptional tour with an array of guides based on our location as we traveled from area to area. The overnight family stay while on Armanti Island on Lake Titicaca offered a rare experience. These are the opportunities that are truly memorable. Travel at its best! Thank you, ROW.
Que Mas? Listos?
I'm the wife of reviewer Jeremy. Galapagos had been on my bucket list since middle school science class when I first learned about Charles Darwin and how his time on the Galapagos proved instrumental in his development of the theory of evolution. Those college essays that asked who you would want to have dinner with, alive or dead, Charles Darwin was ALWAYS my dinner guest. My husband was reluctant - it is a serious investment - but let me put it this way - I had dreamed of this trip for nearly thirty years - think about the anticipation and expectation I had - and this trip MORE than exceeded those expectations. ROW Adventures made it so seamless and stress-free from booking to the actual trip. The attention to detail, the expertise of the guides - our primary guide Ale, who was with us the whole trip, and our naturalists that varied by island - they were all so knowledgeable and eager to answer our questions and show us the beauty of the Galapagos. Ale would always prep our group before each excursion - filling us in on all the logistics and much more - at the end of her "briefing" she would always comment "Que mas?" - ensuring that she had filled us in on everything and ending with "Listos?" - we were always READY thanks to her diligence and ROW Adventures' attention to detail. (Read the review from Jeremy to hear about one of Ale's other go to phrases!) The wildlife was AMAZING! As my husband noted in his review, the wildlife is simply not conditioned to be afraid of humans and therefore you are literally coming face to face with sea turtles, sea lions, blue footed boobies, finches, iguanas, tortoises and so much more - it is impossible to put into words the uniqueness of this experience! We did a land based excursion vs. staying on a boat and absolutely LOVED it - I can't compare it to the boat excursions but I can tell you we really felt this allowed us to get a wonderful feel of not just the underwater treasures but the islands themselves. In short - if you've been considering a trip to the Galapagos but are wondering if it will be "worth it" - have NO FEAR - it is a once in a lifetime, truly magical experience!
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