Galapagos Family Holiday

Galapagos Family Holiday

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8 Days From

$3000

Galapagos Family Holiday

8 Days Starting and ending in Quito

Visiting: Quito, Isla Santa Cruz, Isla San Cristobal

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

GLFB

Specialist Group:

Family/Kids

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

2 - 16

Physical rating:

Low, Low

Age range:

5-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Small Group

From: $3000

NB: Prices correct on 04-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

The Galapagos Islands are home to some of the rarest animals on the planet and this trip gives the whole family a unique opportunity to learn about the biology and diversity of this paradise. Everyone will enjoy spotting the myriad animals in their natural environment as they graze, sleep and play on the beaches, mountains and rocks of the islands of Santa Cruz and San Cristobal. Snorkel beside sea lions, marvel at the plodding majesty of giant tortoises, spot frigatebirds, blue-footed boobies and Galapagos crabs, and keep an eye out for marine iguanas, whales, dolphins and sharks as you explore this natural paradise. You’ll experience (animal) life like never before together on this beautiful family-focused expedition to the Galapagos.

Highlights

  • Swimming beside sea lions is an incredible and surreal experience, and there are few better places to do so than Isla Lobos: home of the world's second largest sea lion colony.

  • You'll get to know the locals by staying in small hotels on the Galapagos islands, as well as exploring the islands and coves by boat.

  • Be surrounded by birds like blue-footed boobies and frigates, who land so close, and often have not even the slightest interest you're there!

  • Incredible photo opportunities await around every corner – not least of Kicker Rock, the marvellous twin volcanic peaks seen sitting in the ocean from the top of Cerro Tijeratas.

  • With spare time in Quito and Isla Santa Cruz, you can spend quality time with the family – perhaps with further hiking or visiting the colourful local markets.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Quito

Location: Quito

Accommodation: La Cartuja Hotel or similar

Bienvenidos! Welcome to Ecuador. Sitting at an altitude of 2,850 metres, under the gaze of Volcan Pichincha, Quito is one of the most attractive cities in South America. Your adventure starts with a welcome meeting at 5 pm. You can arrive at any time as there are no activities planned until this important meeting. If you have time beforehand, take a walk down the famous Calle La Ronda, Quito's oldest street. La Ronda is a peek into the colonial past of the city. This awesome street offers the city's best in one place. You may even wish to arrive a day or two early and explore further beyond the city, visiting Otavalo, Cotopaxi or the Cloud Forest.

Included Activities:
-Complimentary Arrival Transfer

Optional Activities:
-Quito - Compania de Jesus
-Quito - La Ronda Walk - Free
-Quito - Ballet Folklorico Ecuatoriano de Jacchigua
-Cotopaxi - National Park Hiking Tour
-Quito - Mindo Cloud and Tropical Forest
-Quito - Market Discovery Urban Adventure
-Quito -The Otavalo Indigenous market and Condor Park

Day 2: Quito

Location: Quito

Accommodation: La Cartuja Hotel or similar

Meals Included: breaksfast

After breakfast, explore the historic centre of Quito on a walking tour. Stroll through Plaza Grande (main square) and by the Archbishop's Palace. From here, walk about 800 metres uphill to reach the Basilica del Voto Nacional. Time permitting, you may wish to spend more time exploring this church and its views from the top towers. Finally, walk to La Ronda Street and pass by La Compania de Jesus (Church of the Society of Jesus) and San Francisco churches From here we travel to the Equator line The famous Mitad del Mundo monument is an impressive 30-metre-tall structure that marks where the equator is located— or, at least, that’s what many people believe. The afternoon is free for you to explore the city more, or simply just relax at the hotel, getting ready for tomorrow’s adventure!

Included Activities:
-Quito - Leader led city tour + the Equator line

Day 3: Isla Santa Cruz

Location: Isla Santa Cruz

Accommodation: Lobo de Mar Hotel or similar

Meals Included: breaksfast

Today you will take the short flight to Isla Santa Cruz, one of the main hubs of the Galapagos. Upon arrival, enjoy a walking tour of Purto Ayora, after which you’ll take a walk to Tortuga Bay. The walk to Tortuga Bay beach takes approximately 45 minutes (one way). The rest of the day is free for you to further explore. Perhaps visit the buzzing local fish market, where cheeky pelicans try to get in on the daily catch! You might like to simply stay in Puerto Ayora, soak up the seaside ambience and make some of your own discoveries. The town itself is nice and small, perfect for exploring on foot.

Included Activities:
-Isla Santa Cruz - Tortuga Bay walk
-Isla Santa Cruz - Purto Ayora Walking Tour

Day 4: Isla Santa Cruz

Location: Isla Santa Cruz

Accommodation: Lobo de Mar Hotel or similar

Meals Included: breaksfast

After breakfast, head off to the Charles Darwin Research Station. This not-for-profit organisation has been operating since 1959. The station's visitor centre is an essential stop for anyone interested in the archipelago's natural and human history. It's great for learning about the local conservation of the unique ecosystems of the Galapagos. It offers the chance for close-up encounters with giant tortoises, and you can see many newborn and young giant turtles too – they're here as part of the breeding program to reintroduce the creatures to their natural habitat. In the afternoon you will venture to the higher part of Santa Cruz to observe giant tortoises roaming around in the wild. These fascinating animals can weigh as much as 400 kilograms and are very popular with kids.

Included Activities:
-Isla Santa Cruz - Charles Darwin Research Centre (45 Minutes)
-Isla Santa Cruz - Highlands

Day 5: Isla San Cristobal

Location: Isla San Cristobal

Accommodation: Miconia Hotel or similar

Meals Included: breaksfast

Today, head by boat to your second island, Isla San Cristobal. Upon arrival, check-in to the hotel and have time to relax before heading to the Interpretation Center to learn about the history of the islands and the challenges local conservationists face. Then you'll head to the Cerro Tijeratas (Frigatebird Hill) which is located 2 kilometres from the centre, southwest of Isla San Cristobal. It is a bit of a climb to the top, but your reward is an amazing view of the bay. From here you can see the 140-metre-tall Kicker Rock, its twin volcanic slabs looming large in the ocean. Soon after you will travel to La Loberia to enjoy some snorkelling, perhaps spotting sea lions and sea turtles as you paddle around – they love friends swimming nearby!

Included Activities:
-Isla San Cristobal - Interpretation Center Visit (1 hour) - Dry Landing
-Isla San Cristobal - Snorkelling in Las Loberias

Day 6: Isla San Cristobal

Location: Isla San Cristobal

Accommodation: Miconia Hotel or similar

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

You second day in Isla San Cristobal begins with a short boat ride to Isla Lobos (approximately 1 hour). This island boasts the second-largest sea lion colony in the world, not to mention the tallest lighthouse on the entire continent. Along the way you can observe the abundant sea life that the Galapagos is renowned for. You might be lucky enough to spot nesting frigate birds and blue-footed boobies. On arrival you might want to head out into the water for some quality swimming and snorkelling time. You could find yourself in the midst of turtles, manta rays and maybe the odd Galapagos shark (don't worry – they're harmless!). Then it's time to head back to base and relax.

Included Activities:
-Isla Lobos - Swimming and Snorkelling

Day 7: Quito

Location: Quito

Accommodation: La Cartuja Hotel or similar

Meals Included: breaksfast

You will have a free morning to further explore the unique sights of Isla San Cristobal – maybe some last-minute shopping or a visit to the beach one last time. The best thing is, you decide! Late in the afternoon, take a flight back to Ecuador’s capital, Quito.

Day 8: Quito

Location: Quito

Meals Included: breaksfast

Welcome back to the mainland! With no activities planned for today, you can depart at any time. Hotel check out is normally at midday. If you would like to spend more time in Quito, good for you! We’ll be happy to organise some additional accommodation (subject to availability).

What's Included

  • Isla Lobos - Swimming and Snorkelling

  • Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer

  • Quito - Leader led city tour + the Equator line

  • Isla Santa Cruz - Tortuga Bay walk

  • Isla Santa Cruz - Purto Ayora Walking Tour

  • Isla Santa Cruz - Charles Darwin Research Centre (45 Minutes)

  • Isla Santa Cruz - Highlands

  • Isla San Cristobal - Interpretation Center Visit (1 hour) - Dry Landing

  • Isla San Cristobal - Snorkelling in Las Loberias

  • Meals

    7 breakfasts, 1 lunches

show more

What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

  • International Travel

  • Airport Transfers at Destination

Transport

  • Boat , Speed boat

Accommodation

  • GENERAL ROOMING CONFIGURATIONS:
  • Family of two - All family groupings of two will be put into a twin room.
  • Family of three - Wherever possible we will put you in a triple room. Please be aware that in a handful of places triple rooms are in short supply. This means that, in practice, a triple room will often simply be a twin room with a mattress on the floor or a further bed squashed in. Where it is impossible to provide a triple room, you will have to decide which of your party takes the single room.
  • Family of four or more - You will most likely stay in two twin rooms. If and wherever possible we will aim put you in a quadruple room. Whilst we will do our very best to ensure that families are roomed close together (in some cases, we can arrange adjoining rooms), we can’t guarantee this. Most family holidays occur during peak season and we sometimes have little to no control over where you will be put. You need to come prepared for this.

Included Activities

  • Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer
  • Quito - city tour + the Equator line
  • Isla Santa Cruz - Tortuga Bay walk
  • Isla Santa Cruz - Purto Ayora Walking Tour
  • Isla Santa Cruz - Charles Darwin Research Centre (45 Minutes)
  • Isla Santa Cruz - Highlands
  • Isla San Cristobal - Interpretation Center Visit (1 hour) - Dry Landing
  • Isla San Cristobal - Snorkelling in Las Loberias
  • Isla Lobos - Swimming and Snorkelling

Important Information

  • FAMILY TRIP: Please note that these trips are for adults and children travelling together and there must be at least one child under 18 with you.
  • MINIMUM AGE: Age restrictions apply to this trip: minimum age 5 years old.
  • DISCOUNT: A discount of 10% applies on this trip to children 17 or younger at the time of travel.
  • SINGLE SUPPLEMENT:  A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
  • FIRST DAY: This trip starts in Quito on Day 1 at 5 pm. This allows time after the welcome meeting to explore Quito.
  • AIRPORT TRANSFER: A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included; valid if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through us. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel.
  • GALAPAGOS PARK, TRANSIT CARD AND ISABELA PORT FEE
  • The Galapagos park fee (US$100), transit card fee (US$20) and Isabela Port fee (USD5) are payable upon arrival to the islands (cash only). This amount is in addition to your trip payment.
  • When booking, please ensure that your details are correct, and double check them on your documents prior to departure. If your passport does not match your booking details, you may be refused entrance to Galapagos National Park. Please make sure that your name is spelt correctly, and that you book using the name in your passport (particularly if you are recently married). If you are issued a new passport with a different number between the time that you book and the time you travel, please take both the old and new passports with you.
  • TRAVEL INSURANCE: The Ecuadorian government has declared that travel insurance is compulsory for all travelers entering Ecuador. Proof of insurance may be requested at upon entering the country by immigration officials, so please ensure you carry this with you.
  • SNORKELLING: Snorkelling equipment is included in this tour (mask & flippers). If you wish to hire a wetsuit this can be arranged locally for an additional cost.

Mode of Transport

  • Boat , Speed boat

Check out our Q&As

  • Are internal flights included in this tour?

    Yes,

  • Is this trip right for you

    This is a well-rounded family adventure, and there are many reasons to fall in love with the Galapagos Islands. That said, wildlife is the major focus of this trip, so it's especially suited to animal-lovers and birdwatchers.

    This trip visits places that are at high altitude, and as a result some people can suffer from altitude sickness, regardless of age or physical health. Please see the Medical and health information section of the Essential Trip Information for more detail.

    This trip involves a lot of travel by speedboat between the various Galapagos Islands. The rides can be quite bumpy at times, but the good news is that seasickness can often be managed with medication. Please consult a health professional to assess your suitability for such medication.

    From June to August the water in the Galapagos can be rougher than usual. Consequently, travel times will be longer than usual. If you suffer from seasickness you may want to reconsider travelling during this period.

    Proximity to the equator means the sun in the Galapagos is incredibly strong. Ensure you are prepared with sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. We also recommend a rash guard.

    This trip includes snorkelling on multiple days. Confident swimming skills are required to take part. Alternative activities will not be available.

    The Galapagos is a great place to switch off and take a break from your phone, as internet access can be patchy and wi-fi is not always available or reliable.

    Hot water can be sporadic in some parts of the Galapagos, so there may be a few cold showers on the trip.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

Maroochy Dazza (Google Reviewer)  

Just leaving a review to...

24-Aug-2023

Just leaving a review to share how much I enjoyed my Central America trip. I thought the guide, Aura was so knowledgeable and organised and clearly a great ambassador for Intrepid. She gave us lots of information on each region, helped us organise anything we needed and dealt with queries from passengers very well and diplomatically. She made the trip run smoothly. She was also keen to explain the Intrepid vision and how the company values making a difference to locals and is a credit to your company. I did Guatemala and beyond and thoroughly enjoyed it - very fast paced, lots to see and do and a great overview of the region. I would definitely recommend 👍

LivvyGrace 4 (Google Reviewer)  

I just completed my first...

15-Jul-2024

I just completed my first Intrepid tour which was 33 days travelling around Central America - I had the time of my life! It was great to have the benefit of a guide (Fluffy was amazing!) and be able to ask questions at any point, but I also liked the freedom that you were permitted throughout. The group tour made boarder crossings seamless and the whole process felt easy - there was never one hiccup. As a solo female traveller, I felt safe throughout, and I cannot recommend Central America enough - the people, the food, the sun and the activities were just amazing :) Can't wait to book my next adventure soon!

V Open (Google Reviewer)  

I have just come back...

26-Oct-2022

I have just come back home after doing Intrepid's 10-day Vietnam Express Northbound tour. What a SUPERB tour. We saw lots and did lots, it was jam-packed full of sights and activities. Our tour leader, Tam, was the best ever. Very knowledgeable, organised and lots of fun too. The other 10 people on the group were all lovely. The places we visited were very interesting. We even visited local homes and ate just like the local people do. I highly recommend Intrepid to anyone considering touring a new country. This was my 5th tour with them and they have consistently been fantastic.

Jack Edwards (Google Reviewer)  

I have travelled with Intrepid...

03-Jun-2024

I have travelled with Intrepid a number of times now and can't recommend them enough. The trips are always exciting, full of history and immersive in the culture and environment. The office staff are great too and always happy to help with any questions you might have. Everywhere I have gone with the company has been different but the guides and itinerary have always been excellent and full of knowledge and passion for their country. Add in the social responsibility angle the company has and it top quality ethical practice and you can't go wrong

Jo Clayton (Google Reviewer)  

I recently went on an...

15-Mar-2024

I recently went on an 11 day tour of India with Intrepid and was impressed with every aspect of the tour, the tour leader and the organisation behind the scenes. I always travel alone so it was a big deal to join a tour, I didn't want to feel less independent or ferried about. I loved being part of a group and the things we saw and did on the tour, I would never have known about or seen if I had been by myself. I loved it from start to finish. Yes the overnight trains were not easy to sleep on, but I managed. Meeting locals on board was a high light for me. English is widely spoken in India and its amazing who you strike up a chat with. I had two problems on the tour - one my own fault and one hotel related. The support from Intrepid was amazing. I cannot thank them enough for going the extra mile to support me. I recommend Intrepid 100% and have gone from thinking an organised tour is for people who don't know about Lonely Planet and can't do solo stuff, to realising its a faster, better, more fun way to get to know a country truly and deeply whilst on a bit of a budget. I will book again and again with Intrepid. I loved it that much! Big thanks to tour leader Daddy H. Devender for his help on day one, and Nick in the Oz office for his fab customer care skills. Also the person who staffed the emergency whatsapp in India - you saved my sanity helping me get there a day late! THANK YOU ALL X

Nicole  

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Alice Norton (Google Reviewer)  

I have just completed a...

29-Feb-2024

I have just completed a 12 day food tour of Vietnam, and had an amazing time. Our tour leader was great, knowledgeable and kind, who helped throughout the trip with recommendations for places on our free days, and spas. All the food we tried was delicious. It is a very fast paced tour, and Bon tried to maximise our experiences for the best.

Henry Guy Robinson   United Kingdom

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Explore Southern Africa

08-Mar-2024

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Alan Perrott (Google Reviewer)  

We had a fantastic time...

13-Aug-2024

We had a fantastic time on the Botswana Highlights tour recently. We chose Intrepid because it seemed to suit what we wanted - well planned itinerary, small group, comfortable without being overly luxurious (and pricey), and supportive of the local community and environment. We weren't disappointed, and as we met with other like-minded travellers then we all had a great time. We are already planning our next Intrepid tour - maybe Vietnam & Cambodia :-)

1 Select your preferred date

Saturday - Saturday

Apr 05, 2025 - Apr 12, 2025
$3120

Thursday - Thursday

Apr 10, 2025 - Apr 17, 2025
$3120

Sunday - Sunday

Jul 06, 2025 - Jul 13, 2025
$3000

Sunday - Sunday

Aug 03, 2025 - Aug 10, 2025
$3000

Sunday - Sunday

Aug 17, 2025 - Aug 24, 2025
$3000

Sunday - Sunday

Dec 21, 2025 - Dec 28, 2025
$3120

Sunday - Sunday

Dec 28, 2025 - Jan 04, 2026
$3120

Saturday - Saturday

Apr 04, 2026 - Apr 11, 2026
$3275

Saturday - Saturday

Apr 11, 2026 - Apr 18, 2026
$3275

Sunday - Sunday

Jul 05, 2026 - Jul 12, 2026
$3150

Saturday - Saturday

Aug 01, 2026 - Aug 08, 2026
$3150

Saturday - Saturday

Aug 15, 2026 - Aug 22, 2026
$3150

Sunday - Sunday

Dec 20, 2026 - Dec 27, 2026
$3275

Sunday - Sunday

Dec 27, 2026 - Jan 03, 2027
$3275

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

    Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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