Ecuador Galapagos Islands Land & Sea Multi-Adventure
Quito, Ecuador to Quito, Ecuador
Highlights:
- Cruise to enchanting remote islands in the Galapagos aboard a 16-passenger luxury catamaran
- Snorkel top locations with chances to swim with sea lions, penguins, marine iguanas, and sea turtles
- Hike a volcanic crater, snorkel lava flows, and stroll white sand beaches from your Isabela hotel
Important Trip Details:
This trip is considered easy to moderate, which is usually appropriate for travelers in generally fit condition. Your days will be filled with nature walks on the islands, plus swimming, snorkeling, daily panga (zodiac) rides, and kayaking on the cruise portion. There is one moderate hike of 10 miles with gradual elevation change of 400’ up and down (and option to do a shorter version of the hike). Please note that terrain is often varied and uneven, and can be slippery.
Minimum Age: 6
- Adventure and Active
- Family Vacations
- Safari, Animals, and Wildlife
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Day: 1, duration: 2
Illa Experience Hotel
Illa Experience is a deluxe boutique hotel with just 10 rooms, housed in a restored colonial mansion in the historic San Marcos neighborhood of Quito's Old Town. The family owners take great care in providing an immersive experience to capture the traditions, flavors, and scents of a local, traditional home, as well as chances to meet local artisans who make the neighborhood such a special place. The elegant contemporary rooms overlook the Old Town or quiet internal patios. An award-winning gourmet restaurant and rooftop bar celebrate local ingredients, and the spa features a Jacuzzi, sauna, and small fitness center, with massage treatments available.
Day: 3, duration: 4Alya
Indulge in exceptional style and comfort aboard Alya, a 103-foot catamaran. Eight comfortable cabins each have a private balcony, en-suite bathroom, air-conditioning, feather pillows and luxury cotton sheets. An additional ninth cabin is available for single accommodations, and is the only cabin with no private balcony. The lounge and deck areas are spacious and beautifully designed, with a Jacuzzi, movable sunroof, and indoor and outdoor dining options! Wi-Fi is available on board, and use of paddle boards, kayaks, and snorkel gear are included.
Day: 7, duration: 3Iguana Crossing Boutique Hotel
This premium small hotel occupies the island's best location, between a pristine beach and a wildlife filled natural lagoon, just outside the town of Puerto Villamil. The name derives from its strategic location next to the paths used by marine iguanas to cross from the wetlands to the beach, and guests can observe this daily pilgrimage. Rooms are spacious with ocean views and air conditioning. The excellent restaurant offers a variety of regional cuisine. An outdoor pool, terrace, and Jacuzzi all feature gorgeous views of the white sand beach, just steps away.
Luis Die
Luis was born in Seville, Spain, and graduated from the Universidad Autonoma de Madrid with a degree in Environmental Biology. He is fluent in Spanish, English, and French and has guided in Galapagos since 1999. In addition to being a professional nature photographer, Luis has a Master’s Degree in Geographic Ecology and is active with conservation groups. A born teacher, he enthusiastically shares his knowledge of Galapagos with people of all ages. He lives in Quito with his wife, twin sons, and daughter and is MT Sobek’s head naturalist guide.
Fernando Ortiz
Fernando is an Ecuadorian marine biologist who has worked and lived in Galapagos for over 25 years. An accomplished diver, he has enjoyed more than 5,000 dives in the Galapagos, Ecuador, Cayman Islands, Cozumel, Baja California, Palau, Malaysia, and Costa Rica. He joined Conservation International in 2005 after working for the Galapagos National Park as Head of the Department of Control and Conservation of Marine Ecosystems. Fernando returned to guiding to re-encounter the environment that he is so passionate about and loves inspiring MT Sobek travelers on their adventures in the Galapagos.
Patricia Stucki
Patricia has been guiding diving trips in Galapagos since 1999. A native of Switzerland and originally a journalist for the Swiss News Agency, Patricia started her career in guiding as a divemaster in Honduras in 1995 and as a naturalist guide in Costa Rica. She is fascinated by wildlife, is a passionate teacher, and an active conservationist in the islands. As a resident of Galapagos, she will be able to give you an insider’s viewpoint of life in the islands. Patricia is fluent in English, German, and French.
Inclusions
Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
Snacks and water between meals
Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
Baggage transfers and porterage
Exclusions
Galapagos National Park fee, collected upon arrival (Age 13 and older: $200 from Aug 1 2024 / Age 12 and younger: $100 from Aug 1 2024)
International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and catamaran crew
Travel Protection Program
Personal expenses
Galapagos Transit Control Card
Reason #01
MT Sobek was one of the first North American companies to bring visitors to the Galapagos Islands, with an inaugural charter for the Sierra Club in 1970.Reason #02
We charter truly small (maximum 16-passenger) deluxe vessels for a fully MT Sobek-operated experience with our own expert naturalist guide and a dedicated Quito office.Reason #03
This trip is the perfect blend of cruise- and land-based explorations of the Galapagos Islands, with an exploration of historic Quito, joined into one deluxe adventure.Activities
Cultural touring and tasting dinner in Quito, island cruising by luxury catamaran and a lodge-based island stay, both with daily panga rides, hikes, kayaking, and/or snorkeling.Lodging
Deluxe accommodations throughout, from a boutique hotel in Quito and a Galapagos catamaran with private balconies, to a premier beachfront lodge on Isabela Island.Climate
In Galapagos, Dec-May expect 76-86°F and water temperatures of 70-75°F. Jun-Nov expect 67-77°F and water temperatures of 65-72°F.How qualified are your guides in the Galapagos?
Our Galapagos Naturalist Guides are all rated Level 3 by the Galapagos National Park, which is the highest level of qualification, and means each guide has passed the Naturalist Level II course certifying that he/she has expert knowledge of the Galapagos Islands. This level guide will also hold a university degree in biology, biology related fields, and/or tourism, and must be fluent in 3 languages.Do I need a wetsuit for snorkeling in the Galápagos?
With cooler water temperatures, most people prefer using a wetsuit. This way, you will enjoy snorkeling longer. Wetsuits rentals are included in our program price.When is the best time to go to the Galapagos?
The Galapagos Islands are a year-round destination, with something to see and do every month. The warmer season (December to May) is the best time for warmer, calmer seas and good underwater visibility. Late spring brings the mating and nesting season for frigate birds and blue-footed boobies! The water is choppiest in September.How does MT Sobek support conservation in the Galapagos?
MT Sobek is a proud supporting travel partner of the Galapagos Conservancy. All of our highly-experienced naturalist guides are also active in conservation and work closely with the Galapagos National Park.When and where should I arrive?
Arrive in Quito any time on Day 1. An MT Sobek representative will meet you and transfer you to the hotel. Most flights from the US arrive late at night.Am I able to extend my stay before or after my Galapagos cruise?
Absolutely! There are several ways to extend your stay in Ecuador and Peru before and after the trip. Visit the Hacienda Zuleta and Otavalo Market on our 2- or 3-day extension. We recommend a 4- or 5-day excursion to the Sacha Jungle Lodge in the Upper Amazon Rainforest, where we see toucans and monkeys among many other creatures. Or choose to explore Cusco and Machu Picchu on our 6-day extension in Peru.What is the minimum age for this trip?
This trip is great for all ages and the standard minimum age for scheduled group departures is 8; for private departures, the minimum age is 6.
At MT Sobek, sustainability isn’t just a principle; it’s woven into the very fabric of how we operate. We don’t simply observe the world’s unique cultures and fragile ecosystems—we take an active role in their preservation. Supporting organizations dedicated to environmental conservation and community well-being is part of our DNA. Over the years, we have contributed over half a million dollars to conservation efforts and volunteered hundreds of hours to initiatives like Yosemite Facelift. Our programs work to ensure that the wild and beautiful places we visit will continue to thrive, with a special emphasis on sustainable practices and positive social impact. From funding reforestation projects to supporting local artisans, our commitment to sustainability goes hand-in-hand with unforgettable adventure.
Day: 1, duration: 2
Illa Experience Hotel
Illa Experience is a deluxe boutique hotel with just 10 rooms, housed in a restored colonial mansion in the historic San Marcos neighborhood of Quito's Old Town. The family owners take great care in providing an immersive experience to capture the traditions, flavors, and scents of a local, traditional home, as well as chances to meet local artisans who make the neighborhood such a special place. The elegant contemporary rooms overlook the Old Town or quiet internal patios. An award-winning gourmet restaurant and rooftop bar celebrate local ingredients, and the spa features a Jacuzzi, sauna, and small fitness center, with massage treatments available.
Day: 3, duration: 4Alya
Indulge in exceptional style and comfort aboard Alya, a 103-foot catamaran. Eight comfortable cabins each have a private balcony, en-suite bathroom, air-conditioning, feather pillows and luxury cotton sheets. An additional ninth cabin is available for single accommodations, and is the only cabin with no private balcony. The lounge and deck areas are spacious and beautifully designed, with a Jacuzzi, movable sunroof, and indoor and outdoor dining options! Wi-Fi is available on board, and use of paddle boards, kayaks, and snorkel gear are included.
Day: 7, duration: 3Iguana Crossing Boutique Hotel
This premium small hotel occupies the island's best location, between a pristine beach and a wildlife filled natural lagoon, just outside the town of Puerto Villamil. The name derives from its strategic location next to the paths used by marine iguanas to cross from the wetlands to the beach, and guests can observe this daily pilgrimage. Rooms are spacious with ocean views and air conditioning. The excellent restaurant offers a variety of regional cuisine. An outdoor pool, terrace, and Jacuzzi all feature gorgeous views of the white sand beach, just steps away.
Luis Die
Luis was born in Seville, Spain, and graduated from the Universidad Autonoma de Madrid with a degree in Environmental Biology. He is fluent in Spanish, English, and French and has guided in Galapagos since 1999. In addition to being a professional nature photographer, Luis has a Master’s Degree in Geographic Ecology and is active with conservation groups. A born teacher, he enthusiastically shares his knowledge of Galapagos with people of all ages. He lives in Quito with his wife, twin sons, and daughter and is MT Sobek’s head naturalist guide.
Fernando Ortiz
Fernando is an Ecuadorian marine biologist who has worked and lived in Galapagos for over 25 years. An accomplished diver, he has enjoyed more than 5,000 dives in the Galapagos, Ecuador, Cayman Islands, Cozumel, Baja California, Palau, Malaysia, and Costa Rica. He joined Conservation International in 2005 after working for the Galapagos National Park as Head of the Department of Control and Conservation of Marine Ecosystems. Fernando returned to guiding to re-encounter the environment that he is so passionate about and loves inspiring MT Sobek travelers on their adventures in the Galapagos.
Patricia Stucki
Patricia has been guiding diving trips in Galapagos since 1999. A native of Switzerland and originally a journalist for the Swiss News Agency, Patricia started her career in guiding as a divemaster in Honduras in 1995 and as a naturalist guide in Costa Rica. She is fascinated by wildlife, is a passionate teacher, and an active conservationist in the islands. As a resident of Galapagos, she will be able to give you an insider’s viewpoint of life in the islands. Patricia is fluent in English, German, and French.
Inclusions
Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
Snacks and water between meals
Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
Baggage transfers and porterage
Exclusions
Galapagos National Park fee, collected upon arrival (Age 13 and older: $200 from Aug 1 2024 / Age 12 and younger: $100 from Aug 1 2024)
International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and catamaran crew
Travel Protection Program
Personal expenses
Galapagos Transit Control Card
Reason #01
MT Sobek was one of the first North American companies to bring visitors to the Galapagos Islands, with an inaugural charter for the Sierra Club in 1970.Reason #02
We charter truly small (maximum 16-passenger) deluxe vessels for a fully MT Sobek-operated experience with our own expert naturalist guide and a dedicated Quito office.Reason #03
This trip is the perfect blend of cruise- and land-based explorations of the Galapagos Islands, with an exploration of historic Quito, joined into one deluxe adventure.Activities
Cultural touring and tasting dinner in Quito, island cruising by luxury catamaran and a lodge-based island stay, both with daily panga rides, hikes, kayaking, and/or snorkeling.Lodging
Deluxe accommodations throughout, from a boutique hotel in Quito and a Galapagos catamaran with private balconies, to a premier beachfront lodge on Isabela Island.Climate
In Galapagos, Dec-May expect 76-86°F and water temperatures of 70-75°F. Jun-Nov expect 67-77°F and water temperatures of 65-72°F.How qualified are your guides in the Galapagos?
Our Galapagos Naturalist Guides are all rated Level 3 by the Galapagos National Park, which is the highest level of qualification, and means each guide has passed the Naturalist Level II course certifying that he/she has expert knowledge of the Galapagos Islands. This level guide will also hold a university degree in biology, biology related fields, and/or tourism, and must be fluent in 3 languages.Do I need a wetsuit for snorkeling in the Galápagos?
With cooler water temperatures, most people prefer using a wetsuit. This way, you will enjoy snorkeling longer. Wetsuits rentals are included in our program price.When is the best time to go to the Galapagos?
The Galapagos Islands are a year-round destination, with something to see and do every month. The warmer season (December to May) is the best time for warmer, calmer seas and good underwater visibility. Late spring brings the mating and nesting season for frigate birds and blue-footed boobies! The water is choppiest in September.How does MT Sobek support conservation in the Galapagos?
MT Sobek is a proud supporting travel partner of the Galapagos Conservancy. All of our highly-experienced naturalist guides are also active in conservation and work closely with the Galapagos National Park.When and where should I arrive?
Arrive in Quito any time on Day 1. An MT Sobek representative will meet you and transfer you to the hotel. Most flights from the US arrive late at night.Am I able to extend my stay before or after my Galapagos cruise?
Absolutely! There are several ways to extend your stay in Ecuador and Peru before and after the trip. Visit the Hacienda Zuleta and Otavalo Market on our 2- or 3-day extension. We recommend a 4- or 5-day excursion to the Sacha Jungle Lodge in the Upper Amazon Rainforest, where we see toucans and monkeys among many other creatures. Or choose to explore Cusco and Machu Picchu on our 6-day extension in Peru.What is the minimum age for this trip?
This trip is great for all ages and the standard minimum age for scheduled group departures is 8; for private departures, the minimum age is 6.
At MT Sobek, sustainability isn’t just a principle; it’s woven into the very fabric of how we operate. We don’t simply observe the world’s unique cultures and fragile ecosystems—we take an active role in their preservation. Supporting organizations dedicated to environmental conservation and community well-being is part of our DNA. Over the years, we have contributed over half a million dollars to conservation efforts and volunteered hundreds of hours to initiatives like Yosemite Facelift. Our programs work to ensure that the wild and beautiful places we visit will continue to thrive, with a special emphasis on sustainable practices and positive social impact. From funding reforestation projects to supporting local artisans, our commitment to sustainability goes hand-in-hand with unforgettable adventure.
About MT Sobek
This is where adventure travel began! Since our first Everest Base Camp trek in 1969, we’ve been connecting adventurers to the world through genuine, active and immersive experiences. We can’t think of anything more fulfilling than being outside and going deep into nature, exploring hidden places and getting to know local people. It’s what we love to do, so let us share it with you.
To feed your spirit of adventure, Mountain Travel Sobek offers a wide range of unique and perfectly paced itineraries led by incredible local guides. We keep groups small, usually fewer than 10 people, and seek out great food and characterful accommodations everywhere we go. Beyond the seamless logistics and careful attention to detail, our aim is to create a space for truly special moments in unforgettable places.
We are the Adventure Company—come explore with us.
About MT Sobek
This is where adventure travel began! Since our first Everest Base Camp trek in 1969, we’ve been connecting adventurers to the world through genuine, active and immersive experiences. We can’t think of anything more fulfilling than being outside and going deep into nature, exploring hidden places and getting to know local people. It’s what we love to do, so let us share it with you.
To feed your spirit of adventure, Mountain Travel Sobek offers a wide range of unique and perfectly paced itineraries led by incredible local guides. We keep groups small, usually fewer than 10 people, and seek out great food and characterful accommodations everywhere we go. Beyond the seamless logistics and careful attention to detail, our aim is to create a space for truly special moments in unforgettable places.
We are the Adventure Company—come explore with us.
