Galápagos in Freedom
Six days of free exploration among active volcanoes, lava tunnels and marine sanctuaries in 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 itinerary takes you to discover the must-see islands of the Galápagos, combining volcanic hikes, snorkeling and observation of iconic wildlife, all at your own pace. Designed for travelers who love exploring at their rhythm, it combines organized excursions with plenty of free time to make the most of 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 crystalline waters. Throughout your journey, you encounter 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 itinerary offers complete immersion in the heart of a unique ecosystem, listed 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
Quito → Baltra
Baltra → Puerto Ayora
Lava tunnels and giant tortoises
According to the services included in your trip 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 (entry: $5).
Continue your exploration with the lava tunnels, impressive for their size and depth. These natural formations offer a fascinating insight into the volcanic history of the islands, dating back several million years.
For lunch, you can eat at one of the restaurants in the reserve (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 exploring the tunnels
Navigation Santa Cruz – Isabela & marine excursion
Early morning departure to board a speedboat (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 of the Galápagos.
Upon arrival, a short vehicle transfer will take you to your hotel to drop off your luggage.
Late morning departure by boat to the exceptional Tunnels site, one of the most beautiful snorkeling spots in the Galápagos. This marine sanctuary, with its shallow and crystal-clear waters, is known for its spectacular rock formations, created by ancient lava flows that have formed arches and tunnels, visible both on the surface and underwater.
You will have the opportunity to observe varied marine fauna: penguins, turtles, seahorses, manta rays and many other species. Weather permitting, navigation will continue to another observation site where you can admire birds, turtles and sharks.
Return to Isabela in the afternoon.
Tip: Take advantage of your return to port and your still-wet wetsuit to make a detour to Concha Perla, an ideal lagoon for a swim in the heart of nature.
Trekking on Sierra Negra Volcano and Independent Discovery of Isabela
Hiking on the volcano and exploration of sulfur mines
After an early breakfast, departure by vehicle towards the 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 Isabela Island. You will observe fumaroles as well as lava flows from numerous past eruptions.
From the caldera, descent to the bottom of the crater before crossing arid landscapes dotted with recent lava flows. The route leads to an impressive sulfur mine, a testament to the volcanic activity still present on the island.
After this adventure, return by vehicle to Puerto Villamil.
Suggestions for free island exploration
Kayaking and snorkeling excursion to Tintoreras, a spectacular site for observing marine wildlife.
Swimming and snorkeling in Concha Perla Bay , where you can encounter sea turtles, marine iguanas, sea lions, manta rays and penguins depending on the tides.
Mountain biking from the island's paradisiacal beaches to the Wall of Lamentations, a historical remnant steeped in 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 village's central square.
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
Panoramic flight and free exploration
Free morning on Isabela Island before taking a 45-minute flight aboard a small aircraft (9 seats) to San Cristóbal. Upon arrival, free transfer to your hotel.
Take this day to explore the island at your own pace:
Environmental Interpretation Centre: an immersion into the geological history and evolution of the species that make up the unique fauna and flora of the Galápagos.
Hike to Tijeretas Bay: a marked trail leads to this bay ideal for snorkeling, where you can swim alongside sea turtles.
Carola Beach: an idyllic beach populated with sea lions and turtles, perfect for a relaxing break or a swim.
Mann Beach: located just opposite the interpretation centre, it offers a pleasant setting to relax after your explorations.
Complete tour of San Cristóbal and marine immersion
Sea exploration and snorkeling around the island
Boat departure in the morning (schedule confirmed the day before) for a 360° tour of San Cristóbal, offering panoramic views of its coastal landscapes. The itinerary includes a passage by El León Dormido ("the sleeping lion"), an imposing rock formation rising 150 meters above the ocean. This spectacular site is a refuge for thousands of seabirds, including blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds.
During the day, you will enjoy three snorkeling sessions at remarkable sites, where you can observe exceptional marine fauna. A break is also scheduled on a pristine beach for a moment of relaxation. Lunch will be served as a picnic on board the boat.
Option: It is possible to replace the 360° excursion with a scuba dive at El León Dormido (subject to availability and with an additional cost). This alternative must be booked during the planning of your trip.
Last moments in San Cristóbal and departure
Sea Lion Watching and Transfer to the Airport
Enjoy a last free morning on San Cristóbal Island to observe the numerous sea lions that inhabit the beaches. Two emblematic sites are available to you:
La Loberia, an unmissable spot to observe these iconic animals of the Galápagos in their natural habitat.
Carola Beach, ideal for a final 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
- Entry to Galápagos National Park $200 + Ingala Migration Card $20 + Isabela Port Fee $10 + Baltra-Canal Transfer ($6), water taxi ($1 per port)
- All meals and dinners except those indicated in "The Price Includes"
- Beverages & Tips
- Everything that is not listed in "the price includes"
Included
- Private Transfer Day 1 in Santa Cruz
- Navigating shared services as indicated in the itinerary
- Small airplane of 6/9 seats for air transfer from Isabela to San Cristobal
- English-speaking Guide During Excursions - Days 2, 3 and 5
- Accommodation: Standard double/twin room with breakfast included at the accommodations mentioned in the itinerary or equivalent establishments
- 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
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
