Galapagos Explorer

All content by Intrepid

7 days (ex Quito)

Destinations visited: Ecuador, The Galápagos Islands, Quito, World

Physical rating:
Culture shock rating:

Physical Ratings

The physical rating gives you an idea of how much huffing and puffing you can expect on the trip. While generalisations are always tricky, a summary of our ratings follows:

Rating 1

These trips are a relaxing break. You don't have to worry about doing anything physically demanding unless you want to.

Rating 2

Some easy physical activities included in your trip. No physical preparation is required to make the most of the journey.

Rating 3

This trip will raise your heartbeat. Moderate physical activities are included and a good level of fitness is required.

Rating 4

Be prepared for some serious physical activity. The majority of activities included on this trip will be challenging. The fitter you are, the more you will enjoy your holiday.

Rating 5

Intrepid’s highest physical rating. Get ready for a heart-pumping adventure with plenty of challenges and some extreme conditions. You will be required to be seriously fit for this trip as difficult activities are included.

Culture Shock Ratings

The culture shock rating considers the level of development in the location, the area's infrastructure and how easy it is to access services. It also takes into consideration how different the food and customs are and whether English is widely spoken. While generalisations are always tricky, here’s a summary of the ratings:

Rating 1

This is the least confronting of Intrepid's product range. English is the native language and the food, customs and access to services will be familiar to you.

Rating 2

You will probably have experienced food like this in restaurants back home and English is commonly spoken. Services are available most of the time but there may be some cultural differences.

Rating 3

Expect some culture shock. You will be exposed to signs of poverty and access to services may be sporadic. The food will be quite different to home and English speakers harder to find. Respecting the local culture will make it easier to fit in and really experience the location.

Rating 4

The comforts of home are more of a rarity. English is not common and the food will be quite different to what you are used to. It is important to observe some of the local customs to not cause offence. Many of the locals' standard of living may be confronting.

Rating 5

You're really out there! You'll need to pay specific attention to health and hygiene. A large proportion of locals' living conditions are a world away from standards you are used to. You may have difficulty finding an English speaker and there is little or no access to services. Paying heed to local customs is essential.

from USD$3,340

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Description

Explore the Galapagos on a sailing tour around the south-eastern area of the archipelago. Meet the giant tortoises that inhabit Isla San Cristobal, watch blue-footed boobies dance the booby two step and marvel in awe of the unfamiliar beauty that characterises these islands. Encounter the very same creatures that sparked Darwin's imagination when he formulated his theories of evolution â“ there's no spot on Earth that is so close to the origins of the planet, where every step feels as though it is through unchartered territory. Prepare to depart on the adventure of a lifetime and become a Galapagos Explorer!

Highlights

Snorkel through turquoise waters around Floreana.
Meet ancient giant tortoises on Isla San Cristobal.
Watch blue-footed boobies dance the booby two step.
Walk across olive green sands at Punta Cormorant.

Itinerary

Day 1 Quito

Travel to Quito and enjoy a free day exploring the Ecuadorian delights that abound in this lively city. At a dizzying 2850 m above sea level, take it easy and adjust to the altitude â“ the perfect excuse to kick back in a local trattoria and watch the world go by.

Day 2 Isla San Cristobal

Fly to Baltra and board a yacht, your home for the next week, ready to set sail to Isla San Cristobal. Venture into the interior of the island and encounter the ancient giant tortoises that inhabit the area.

Day 3 Isla Espanola

Sail due south to Isla Espanola â“ one of the most far-flung and most spectacular of the Galapagos archipelago. A world away from anything else on Earth, explore this remote island's unfamiliar flora and fauna. Stroll along the pristine sands of Bahia Gardner, where the rocks along the coast provide some incredible snorkelling opportunities.

Day 4 Isla Floreana

Visit the Galapagos's Isla Floreana, an island considered a major highlights due to its diversity of natural wonders and wildlife. Make footprints in the olive green sands of Punta Cormorant, become acquainted with some of the local sea lions and get down to some good old ornithology in this bird-watching hot-spot.

Day 5 Isla Bartolome

The youngster of the archipelago, Bartolome boasts an unmatched and erratic volcanic lanscape. Explore the beaches surrounding the Galapagos's iconic Pinnacle Rock, or get active with a hike to the summit of a dormant volcano â“ the views of Santiao Island are stunning.

Day 6 Isla North Seymour

Rise early for a trek through North Seymour. Pass colonies of blue-footed boobies and frigate birds along the way, and observe the peculiar cohabitation that exists between the species. Return to Quito a true Galapagos Explorer!

Day 7 Quito

Finish the Galapagos adventure back in Ecuador's capital. Perhaps stay a few extra nights and explore some of Quito's famous museums or relax and people watch at a lively cafe.

Group Size

Maximum of 16 travellers per group

Accommodation

Motorised yacht (4 nts), Hotel (2 nts)

Transport

Boat, Plane, Minibus

Budget

Allow USD $100 for meals not included.

Check dates and prices
Book this trip with Intrepid Travel on their site

from USD$3,340

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