Galápagos Freestyle
Six days of free exploration among active volcanoes, lava tunnels and marine sanctuaries of the Galápagos
Duration
6 days
From
€1,620/pers.
Ideal seasons
Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, Nov, Dec
Style
Itinerant travel
Comfort
classique
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends
The spirit of travel
This circuit takes you on a discovery of the must-see islands of the Galápagos, between volcanic hikes, snorkeling dives and observation of emblematic wildlife, all at your own pace. Designed for travelers who love exploring at their rhythm, it combines organized excursions with numerous free moments to fully enjoy each island.
From Santa Cruz to Isabela, then San Cristóbal, you discover spectacular landscapes shaped by volcanic activity, lava tunnels, immense calderas and wild beaches bordered by crystal-clear waters. Throughout the journey, you approach the famous giant tortoises, marine iguanas, sea lions, Galápagos penguins, manta rays and a multitude of seabirds in their natural environment.
Between boat crossings, hikes, snorkeling and free time to explore villages or the most beautiful sites of the archipelago, this circuit offers complete immersion in the heart of a unique ecosystem in the world, inscribed in the exceptional natural heritage of the Galápagos.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Exploration of the Upper Part of Santa Cruz
We start our journey in Quito, the capital of Équateur. We are transferred to the airport at first light.
We take a flight there that will take us to the Galapagos Islands (duration of 2 to 3 hours).
Lava Tunnels and Giant Tortoises
According to the services included in your itinerary and your flight schedule, transfer from your hotel in Quito to the national airport for a 1.5-hour flight to Baltra.
This day is dedicated to free exploration of the upper part of the Santa Cruz Island.
You will start with Los Gemelos, two impressive volcanic formations surrounded by lush vegetation. Next, you will have the opportunity to observe the famous Galápagos giant tortoises in their natural habitat (entrance: $5).
Continue your exploration with the lava tunnels, impressive for their size and depth. These natural formations offer a fascinating glimpse into the volcanic history of the islands, dating back several million years.
For lunch, you have the option to eat at one of the reserve's restaurants (El Chato or Rancho Primicias), with a tourist menu at approximately $20 per person.
Finally, transfer to Puerto Ayora and check-in at your hotel.
Heading to Isabela and tunnel exploration
Navigation Santa Cruz – Isabela & marine excursion
Early morning departure to board a fast boat (shared service) heading to Isabela Island (approximately 2 hours crossing). The largest island in the archipelago, Isabela is formed by six volcanoes, five of which are still active: Alcedo, Cerro Azul, Darwin, Ecuador, Sierra Negra and Wolf. Thanks to its size and the diversity of its ecosystems, it is home to the richest biodiversity in the Galápagos.
Upon arrival, a short vehicle transfer takes you to your hotel to drop off your luggage.
You then embark to reach the tunnels, a site shaped by ancient lava flows that created a series of arches and tunnels, both on the surface and underwater.
You enjoy a snorkeling session in shallow, clear and calm waters. You will notably observe penguins, turtles, seahorses and manta rays. Then you continue navigating to another site to observe birds, turtles and sharks.
A picnic lunch is served on board, before your return to Isabela in early afternoon.
You then have free time and can notably discover Concha Perla.
Trekking on Sierra Negra Volcano and Free Discovery of Isabela
Hiking on the volcano and sulfur mine exploration
After an early breakfast, departure by vehicle towards Sierra Negra volcano, whose caldera is the second largest in the world. This immersive hike allows you to explore the different vegetation levels that characterize the upper part of Ile Isabela. You will observe fumaroles as well as lava flows from the numerous past eruptions.
From the caldera, descent to the crater floor before crossing arid landscapes dotted with recent lava flows. The route leads to an impressive sulfur mine, testament to the volcanic activity still present on the island.
After this adventure, return by vehicle to Puerto Villamil.
Suggestions for free exploration of the island
Kayaking and snorkeling excursion at Tintoreras, a spectacular site to observe marine wildlife.
Swimming and snorkeling in Concha Perla bay, where you may encounter turtles, marine iguanas, sea lions, manta rays and penguins depending on the tides.
Mountain bike ride from the island's pristine beaches to the Wall of Lamentations, a historical vestige full of history.
Mangrove exploration, true sanctuaries for species such as Caribbean flamingos, ghost crabs and fiddler crabs.
All these excursions (except swimming at Concha Perla) are organized by local agencies, mainly located around the central plaza of the village.
Tip: To guarantee a worry-free experience, remember to book your activities in advance when planning your trip.
From Isabela Island to San Cristobal
Ile Isabela → Ile San Cristóbal
You have a free morning in Isabela before continuing your trip to San Cristóbal.
At 2 p.m., you board a small 5/9 seater plane for a 45-minute flight to San Cristóbal. Upon arrival, you make your own way to your hotel/hostal.
Late afternoon, meet at the Ecofishing agency office to prepare for your sea outing scheduled for the day after tomorrow.
Complete tour of San Cristóbal and marine immersion
You have a free day to discover the island of San Cristóbal at your own pace.
You can visit the environmental interpretation center, dedicated to the origin and evolution of the species that make up the fauna and flora of the archipelago.
A marked trail also allows you to reach Tijeretas Bay, where you can go snorkeling with the turtles.
You can continue your exploration on Carola Beach, frequented by sea lions and turtles, or enjoy Mann Beach, located just across from the interpretation center.
Last moments in San Cristóbal and departure
Watching sea lions and transfer to the airport
Enjoy a last free morning on San Cristóbal Island to observe the many sea lions that inhabit the beaches. Two iconic sites are available to you:
La Loberia, an unmissable spot for observing these emblematic animals of the Galápagos in their natural habitat.
Carola Beach, ideal for a last swim in the company of sea lions and sea turtles.
Depending on your flight schedule, transfer of approximately 15 minutes to San Cristóbal airport for your departure.
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- Galapagos National Park entrance $200 + Ingala migration card $20 + Isabela port fee $10 + Baltra-Channel transfer ($6), water taxi ($1 per port)
- All meals and dinners except those indicated in "What's Included"
- Beverages & Tips
- Everything that is not indicated in "the price includes"
Included
- Private Transfer Day 1 in Sta Cruz
- Shared services navigation as indicated in the itinerary
- Small aircraft with 6/9 seats for air transfer from Isabela to San Cristobal
- Spanish/English Guide during excursions - Days 2, 3 and 5
- Accommodation: Base double/twin room with breakfasts included at the accommodations mentioned in the itinerary or equivalent
- 2 picnic meals on board during excursions - Days 2 and 5
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 30 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total
Concernant l’achat de billets d’avion :
Annulation : 100 % du prix du billet, car les billets achetés sont non remboursables.
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below concerns travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland and Canada traveling to Ecuador for a tourist stay. Entry rules may change, so we recommend that you verify this information with the official authorities before your departure.
Passport
To enter Ecuador, your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay and must have at least one blank page for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn or altered pages).
Tourist stay without visa
Nationals of the European Economic Area, Switzerland and Canada benefit from visa exemption for tourist stays.
To date, this exemption allows for a stay of up to 90 days per 12-month period on Ecuadorian territory.
The authorities may also request:
a return ticket or proof of onward travel (return flight or continuation),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay,
an accommodation address in Ecuador.
Health and vaccinations
No vaccination is mandatory to enter Ecuador for travelers coming from Europe or Canada, except in case of arrival from a country at risk of yellow fever, in which case a yellow fever vaccination certificate may be required.
As a precaution, it is recommended that you consult a doctor or vaccination center before departure, particularly regarding:
yellow fever (recommended for certain regions of the country, particularly in the Amazon),
typhoid,
hepatitis A and hepatitis B.
Traveling with children
Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay.
In some European countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, exit authorization from the territory may be required according to the regulations of the country of residence. Ecuadorian authorities may also request documents certifying the minor's family situation.
Other nationalities
Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Travelers concerned should consult the embassy or consulate of Ecuador in their country of residence.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to have coverage for emergency repatriation and medical expenses abroad.
Your local agency encourages you to review the specific policy developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To purchase insurance, learn about coverage options and rates, please follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The complete insurance solution designed for worry-free travel!
Choose the plan that best suits your needs:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to one of these plans.
If you choose to purchase one of these policies, the full policy document detailing all coverage and claims procedures is available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of this, but only the participant is responsible for following the claims declaration procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy document with them throughout their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
Visitors can stay in Ecuador visa-free, provided they present a valid passport for at least 6 months after entry, a return ticket, and mandatory travel insurance upon arrival. Visa exemption conditions and authorized stay lengths depend on nationality; check the rules applicable to your situation with the Ecuadorian embassy or consulate before booking your trip.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a tailor-made quality trip, budget between 160 and 280 euros per day and per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transfers and English-speaking guide. International flights (900-1300 euros return) are additional. The Galápagos represent a separate budget (cruise or inter-island navigation).
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We adapt each itinerary to match traveler profiles. For families, we prioritize relaxed paces, family-friendly accommodations, educational and entertaining activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our local English-speaking guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You adjust every detail together until you reach the perfect version. You confirm and travel with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) guarantee which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on site throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — Galápagos Islands
Accomplice in Ecuadorian adventures, based in Quito
Ecuador is a country where you can shift between completely different worlds in just a few hours. It's this constant diversity—between volcanoes, forests, villages, and encounters—that still fascinates me today.
— Carole
