Galápagos Islands Tours

Why This Galapagos Adventure Tour? 
  • With hundreds of 5-star reviews, Galapagos Unbound is the top choice for travelers seeking an unforgettable adventure.
  • We aim to accommodate the desires of all travelers to ensure they get the most out of their Galapagos Islands vacation. 
  • Enjoy exclusive access to our unique Galapagos camps and wake up to sea lions right outside your tent! 
  • Kayak over gliding sea turtles, rays, and other marine life while exploring secluded coves and coastlines.
  • ROW Adventures pioneered Galapagos land-based travel and advocates for low-impact experiences in this stunning archipelago.
  • Our guides are personally trained in the "ROW Difference", ensuring they deliver what will undoubtedly be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Trip Overview

Enjoy an intimate journey through the Galapagos islands with ROW's unique Galápagos Unbound multisport tour. This Galapagos land-based travel adventure takes you beyond the typical cruise experience to snorkel, hike, and kayak right alongside the islands' diverse wildlife. It’s an immersive way to explore the one-of-a-kind ecosystems of the Galápagos Islands while supporting local businesses. 

On this Galapagos Island tour, you can swim with playful sea lions, be within a few feet of brilliant blue-footed boobies, and encounter marine iguanas and giant tortoises found nowhere else in the world. You'll witness pelicans diving for fish, snorkel through crystal clear waters teeming with life, and even swim with sharks if you're feeling daring. The wonders of the Galápagos defy description.

ROW Adventures offers one of the few Galapagos small group tours, allowing intimate access to remote sites beyond the typical tourist routes. We trek and kayak to secluded locations inaccessible to bigger groups. Our reward is not just the wildlife we encounter, but the joy of the journey itself. As the only Galapagos land tour with camping on deserted beaches, ROW Adventures provides a one-of-a-kind experience at our eco oceanfront camp.

Our Galapagos land tours aim to provide the full picture by not only encountering the islands’ wildlife up close but also by integrating experiences with local people in one of the four small towns dotted throughout the archipelago. We stay at family-owned hotels, dine on delicious local cuisine at restaurants run by islanders, and use local transportation to get around. This provides opportunities to meet Galápagans, learn about their culture, and gain insight into what daily life is like in this remote island chain. By spreading our tourist dollars at locally-owned businesses, we also aim to promote responsible and sustainable tourism.

Galapagos small group tours offer a one-of-a-kind adventure for intrepid travelers seeking to explore the exotic wildlife and dramatic landscapes that inspired Charles Darwin's theory of evolution. As described in Tim Neville's 2006 New York Times article "Galápagos Unbound," this pioneering itinerary provides an immersive escape from the ordinary. While the original trip plan has evolved over the years, the core spirit remains unchanged. 

Images & Videos

Tents set up along an exclusive Galapagos eco oceanfront campsite on a beach at sunset
A family looking at a Giant Galapagos Land Tortoise with a guide in the Galapagos Islands
Guided tours on the Galapagos Islands
Guests eating dinner on a beach in the Galapagos while camping
Tents set up at an exclusive Galapagos Islands eco beach camp
Blue Footed Boobies in the Galapagos
People taking a picture while standing on top of a unique rock bridge over the water in the Galapagos Islands
Family walking around a famous volcano in the Galapagos Islands
girl watching sea lions in the galapagos islands
couple in the galapagos islands
sea kayak in the galapgos islands
A sea turtle under the surface of the water.
people standing on lava rock looking into water in the galapagos
Galapagos wildlife
people arm in arm overlooking a volcano while on a hike
A couple dipping their feet in the water on a beach in the Galapagos with their tent behind them
Yellow tandem kayak with two people paddling in the sunshine on the Pacific Ocean
a family of four smiling for a photo atop a volcano hike
Snorkeling with sea lions in the Pacific Ocean
Kicker Rock, Galapagos Islands
A group of people descending a volcano in the Galapagos Islands
Tents set up along an exclusive Galapagos eco oceanfront campsite on a beach at sunset
A family looking at a Giant Galapagos Land Tortoise with a guide in the Galapagos Islands
Guided tours on the Galapagos Islands
Guests eating dinner on a beach in the Galapagos while camping
Tents set up at an exclusive Galapagos Islands eco beach camp
Blue Footed Boobies in the Galapagos
People taking a picture while standing on top of a unique rock bridge over the water in the Galapagos Islands
Family walking around a famous volcano in the Galapagos Islands
girl watching sea lions in the galapagos islands
couple in the galapagos islands
sea kayak in the galapgos islands
A sea turtle under the surface of the water.
people standing on lava rock looking into water in the galapagos
Galapagos wildlife
people arm in arm overlooking a volcano while on a hike
A couple dipping their feet in the water on a beach in the Galapagos with their tent behind them
Yellow tandem kayak with two people paddling in the sunshine on the Pacific Ocean
a family of four smiling for a photo atop a volcano hike
Snorkeling with sea lions in the Pacific Ocean
Kicker Rock, Galapagos Islands
A group of people descending a volcano in the Galapagos Islands

Itinerary

Collapse all days

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.
 
ACCOMMODATION : Wyndham Hotel Guayaquil

Day 2

Guayaquil to San Cristobal

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.

ACCOMMODATION : Exclusive Beach Camp
MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3

Kicker Rock, Snorkeling, and Beach Camping

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 beachside eco camp.

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

ACCOMMODATION : 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).

ACCOMMODATION : 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. 

ACCOMMODATION : Isabela Hotel
MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch

Day 6

Los Tuneles, Snorkeling, 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.

ACCOMMODATION : 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.

ACCOMMODATION : Santa Cruz Hotel
MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch

Day 8

Tortuga Bay Kayaking and Hiking

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.

ACCOMMODATION : Santa Cruz Hotel
MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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. We’ll return to the mainland city of Guayaquil where your Galapagos Islands holiday comes to an end, please anticipate returning by 5 PM. Transfer to the international terminal for your return flight home or continue your travels through South America. 

MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast

Dates & Rates

DatesAdult (USD)Child (USD)
Nov 30, 2024 to Dec 08, 2024
Lowest Tier Price
$5,850£0€0$0$0$5,850£0€0$0$0
Dec 07, 2024 to Dec 15, 2024
Lowest Tier Price
$5,850£0€0$0$0$5,850£0€0$0$0
Dec 16, 2024 to Dec 24, 2024
Lowest Tier Price - Starts on Santa Cruz - *Free Galapagos Flights Special
$5,850£0€0$0$0$5,850£0€0$0$0
Dec 18, 2024 to Dec 26, 2024
Lowest Tier Price
SOLD OUT
$5,850£0€0$0$0$5,850£0€0$0$0
2025
Jan 11, 2025 to Jan 19, 2025
Lowest Tier Price
$6,200£0€0$0$0$6,200£0€0$0$0
Feb 15, 2025 to Feb 23, 2025
Lowest Tier Price - *Free Galapagos Flights Special
$6,200£0€0$0$0$6,200£0€0$0$0
Mar 01, 2025 to Mar 09, 2025
Lowest Tier Price
$6,200£0€0$0$0$6,200£0€0$0$0
Apr 12, 2025 to Apr 20, 2025
Lowest Tier Price
$6,200£0€0$0$0$6,200£0€0$0$0
May 10, 2025 to May 18, 2025
Lowest Tier Price - Limited Space Remaining
$6,200£0€0$0$0$6,200£0€0$0$0
Jun 14, 2025 to Jun 22, 2025
Lowest Tier Price - *Free Galapagos Flights Special
$6,200£0€0$0$0$6,200£0€0$0$0
Jul 05, 2025 to Jul 13, 2025
Lowest Tier Price - *Free Galapagos Flights Special
$6,200£0€0$0$0$6,200£0€0$0$0
Nov 08, 2025 to Nov 16, 2025
Lowest Tier Price
$6,200£0€0$0$0$6,200£0€0$0$0
Dec 13, 2025 to Dec 21, 2025
Lowest Tier Price
$6,200£0€0$0$0$6,200£0€0$0$0

Supplementary Information

*2024 Free Galapagos Flights

Free mainland Ecuador to Galapagos Islands and inter-island airfare on select departures. Please inquire for additional details. 

  • *December 16 - 24, 2024 - *Free Ecuador to Galapagos Islands and inter-island airfare

 2024 Pricing:

  • 4 - 7 Guests - $6820 per person
  • 8 - 12 Guests - $5850 per person

*2025 Free Galapagos Flights

Free mainland Ecuador to Galapagos Islands airfare on select departures! 

  • February 15 - 23, 2025 - *Free Ecuador to Galapagos Islands airfare
  • June 14 - 22, 2025 - *Free Ecuador to Galapagos Islands airfare
  • July 5 - 13, 2025 - *Free Ecuador to Galapagos Islands airfare

2025 Pricing:

  • 4 - 7 Guests - $6900 per person

  • 8 - 12 Guests - $6200 per person

Please note that an additional amount of $1,120 should be allowed for internal flights and park tariffs.
 
This is broken down into:
  • $615pp Guayaquil Galapagos Round Trip
  • $300pp Internal Galapagos Flight and Boat Transfer
  • $220pp Galapagos Park Fee and Immigration Tax

Single Supplement for Solo Travelers 

  • Single Supplement - $800

December High Tourist Season Supplement 

  • December Supplement for all travelers - $375/person 
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: 
  • Full service of our Adventure Consultants
  • Hand-crafted itineraries
  • Professional Galapagos Naturalist Guide
  • Experienced English-speaking guide(s)
  • Double accommodation in hotels and for camping
  • Specialized activity guides based on activity of trip (kayaking, biking, hiking, camping, etc.)
  • All necessary kayaking, camping and snorkeling equipment
  • All transportation as noted on the itinerary
  • All meals and drinks as noted on the itinerary
  • Private pre-tour orientation meeting
Not Included
  • International flights to Ecuador 
  • Ecuador to Galapagos round trip flights (*Free Ecuador to Galapagos flights may be offered on select dates)
  • Internal island transfers
  • $220 National Park Fee and Immigration Tax
  • Gratuities
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Travel insurance of any type
  • Additional hotel nights pre or post tour
  • Cost of hospitalization or evacuation if necessary

Reviews

5
Average: 5 (25 votes)

Reviews

5

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!

5

Galapagos - Everyone should go at least once!

A trip of a lifetime that exceeded expectations in every way - from the animals, to the kayaking, to the accommodations, to the food. Our guide was exceptional. Thanks Row!

5

Amazing

Still the best trip we have taken. Did the trip a few years ago and had a fabulous time. Exceeded expectations and worth every penny. We have wanted to see the Galapagos for years and finally decided if we didn't do it when we did, when would we? We feel bad that with the pandemic others could not experience what we did. ROW's guide were fantastic and our group had a great time. We have since moved to Switzerland, so not likely taking any similar trips soon, but can not recommend ROW too highly. Don't hesitate...do it and you will not regret it!

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