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Classic Galapagos Islands Adventure

Explore the best of the Galápagos Islands on this seven-day island-hopping adventure. Snorkel Kicker Rock, cycle San Cristobal, hike volcanic landscapes, see incredible wildlife, kayak pristine waters, and get to know local life as you relax on land each night.

Start - End: Quito - Quito

Total trip: 7 days

Average group size: 12 people

Level: 2

from NZD 9,299/pp including taxes and fees

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In under two weeks, discover the highlights and hidden gems of two incredible countries on our Ultimate Machu Picchu and Galapagos Islands Adventure

There's no doubt you'll be mind blown by the contrasting landscapes, from the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu to the crystal clear water of Isabela Island, on our 13-day Ultimate Machu Picchu & Galapagos Islands Adventure.

Starting in Cusco, you'll cycle into the Sacred Valley of the Incas, hike the Huchuy Qosqo Trail, experience Machu Picchu and explore Pisac market. And that's just Peru! Afterward, take a short flight to Lima and then on to Quito, where you'll wander the colonial city unchanged from the colonial days.

From here, it's just a hop over to the Galapagos Islands. The next 6-days will be yours to snorkel next to Kicker Rock, cycle the San Cristobal highlands, hike Sierra Negra Volcano, sea kayak near Isabela Island and get up close to all manner of wild creatures and relax on isolated beaches. If you're only likely to visit this part of South America once in your life, we'll make sure our Ultimate Machu Picchu & Galapagos Islands Adventure is an adventure you'll never forget.

Trip Highlights

Hiking

Santa Cruz

You’ll stretch your legs on winding island trails, with birds calling from the trees and ocean views peeking through the greenery. It's a perfect welcome to the Galápagos.

Hiking

Sierra Negra Volcano

This one’s a real adventure! Hiking across lava fields to the edge of one of the biggest volcanic craters on Earth, with views you won’t believe until you’re standing there.

Biking

to Loberia Beach

Hop on a bike and cruise to the coast. The ride’s fun, the breeze is warm, and chances are you’ll be greeted by sleepy sea lions when you reach the sand.

Kayaking

Tortuga Bay

Paddle through calm, clear waters where rays glide underneath and marine iguanas lounge nearby. It’s peaceful, playful, and pure Galápagos magic.

Plus...

Lava Tunnels

Head underground into cooled lava flows that twist and turn like nature’s own subway system where' it's weird, wild, and a little bit like stepping into another planet.

Plus...

Kicker Rock Snorkeling

You’ll snorkel through some of the bluest water you’ve ever seen, with sea turtles, reef sharks, and schools of fish swimming right alongside you.

Plus...

Giant Tortoise Breeding Center

Get up close with the slow-moving legends of the Galápagos, from tiny hatchlings to massive old-timers. Your guides will share their extensive knowledge and you'll learn how they’re being protected for the future.

Day by day trip

Every day on your adventure promises incredible views, culture, fun-filled moments, and discovery.

Day 1

Arrive to Quito

Your trip begins in Ecuador’s capital city, Quito. If you’re flying in early today, you’ll have a chance to journey to the city from the airport (or your hotel) to explore the beautiful town squares, quaint cafés and colonial architecture. Quito is a mesmerising city to visit, with its cobbled streets and towering cathedrals, nestled in a valley flanked by majestic mountains. On a clear day, several snow-capped volcanoes are visible from the capital. As well as being in a beautiful location, this colonial city is rich in history and much of the old town is well preserved, the buildings are unchanged and to walk down the narrow streets is to step into bygone eras.

You'll meet your guides in the evening to chat about the Galapagos journey that lies ahead, and to enjoy dinner together.
Accommodation: Hacienda Jimenita, Quito
Meals: Dinner

Day 2

Fly to the Galapagos Islands

We’ll hop on a flight to Santa Cruz Island, in the heart of the Galapagos Archipelago. Once there, we head to the highlands to visit a private giant tortoise reserve. Here, you'll witness these enormous creatures in their natural habitat, whether cooling off in a watering hole or feasting on the lush greenery.

You'll also have the opportunity to explore nearby lava tunnels, gaining a deeper understading of the geoplogical forces that shaped these unique islands.
Accommodation: Hotel Solymar, Santa Cruz Island
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3

Kayaking Tortuga Bay, Boat to Isabela Island

This morning we’ll hike to Tortuga Bay, one of the most stunning beaches in the Galapagos. Tortuga Bay is accessible only by foot and is home to hundreds of prehistoric-looking marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and pelicans. Paddle through its calm, turquoise waters by kayak, spotting marine life along the way.

This afternoon, we’ll head to Isabela Island, the largest island in the Galapagos.
Accommodation: Hotel Albemarle or Casa de Maritas, Isabela Island
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Hiking: 4 miles (6.5 kilometers), 1-2 hours

Kayaking: 1-2 hours

Day 4

Snorkeling at Los Túneles and Wetlands Walk to Breeding Center

Take a boat trip to Los Túneles, one of the archipelago’s most iconic snorkeling sites, known for lava arches, sea turtles, rays, and reef sharks, and take some time to explore this underwater world. In the afternoon, enjoy a walk through the wetlands to the Giant Tortoise Breeding Center, spotting flamingos and marine iguanas along the way.
Accommodation: Hotel Albemarle or Casa de Maritas, Isabela Island
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Hiking: 1-2 miles (1.6-3.2 kilometers)

Day 5

Sierra Negra Volcano, Bike to Loberia Beach

Our hike today will take us towards the summit of Sierra Negra Volcano, rising nearly a mile above the ocean. This is one of the largest volcanic calderas in the world, and one of the most active. As we hike, we might be lucky enough to see Galapagos hawks, short-eared owls, finches, and flycatchers that inhabit this region.

After lunch, fly to San Cristobal and enjoy a relaxed bike ride to La Lobería, where you can swim or snorkel with playful sea lions.
Accommodation: Hotel Seaside or Casa Blanca, San Cristobal
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Hiking: 5 miles (8 kilometers), 2-3 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: 213 feet (65 meters) ascent, 213 feet (65 meters) descent

Biking: 3 miles (5 kilometers),1 hour, flat

Day 6

Snorkel or dive at Kicker Rock, visit Interpretation Centre

Today we’ll cruise to Kicker Rock off the coast of San Cristobal, where we’ll don wet suits, snorkels, and masks (and tanks for the divers diving option extra fees apply) and explore around the remains of an underwater volcano with a rock face rising 500 feet (150 meters) above the surface of the water. Your trip leader will give you a full briefing and then we’ll take to the water to explore the walls of the volcano. There will be chances to see beautiful tropical fish, turtles and sharks as they skirt the edges of Kicker Rock!

Afterward, visit the San Cristobal Interpretation Centre to learn about the history and mystery of the archipelago, from its discovery and what makes it so special, to Charles Darwin’s visit and the present-day efforts to protect this amazing World Heritage Site.
Accommodation: Hotel Seaside or Casa Blanca, San Cristobal
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Snorkel Kicker Rock: 30-45 minutes

Optional Kicker Rock diving experience (additional cost applies): You can opt to swap the snorkel for a dive if you wish. This option must be selected at the time of booking. 2 dives, 30-45 minutes each

Day 7

Fly to Quito, Depart

Enjoy a peaceful final morning with time to relax, explore the town, or take a last walk along the beach before our flight back to Quito on the mainland, and departure for home. We’ll make sure you return home relaxed and refreshed from all the great activities, fine food, and friendly people you’ll have met while traveling with us in the Galapagos Islands.
Accommodation: Not applicable
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

This trip includes:

6 nights’ accommodation
6 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 4 dinners
You’re supported from start to finish by our highly experienced guides and leaders
Industry leading Guest-to-Guide ratio (averaging 6:1)
All activities outlined in the itinerary
Delicious and nutritious snacks to keep you fueled
All necessary equipment (well-maintained and safe) for activities
Return flights between Quito and the Galapagos Islands
Comfortable boat transfer between the islands of Galapagos
Your queries answered by our knowledgeable Customer Care Team - only a call, chat, or email away
You’re “trip ready” with our Customer Care Team’s calls prior to your trip
“My Account” - your own online space with everything required for your adventure
*Please note an additional USD$220pp is required for the Galapagos Park Entrance fee and the Transit Control fee, and this is not included in the tour price

What Our Guests Say

Photos From the Ultimate Machu Picchu & Galapagos Islands Adventure

Take 10% off the trip price when you book a trip and pay in full

By paying in full we are able to pass on savings to our guests, but please note that by opting for this payment plan, your booking becomes non-refundable, non-cancellable, and non-changeable. This offer is only valid for reservations where the trip is no sooner than 180 days from the departure date at time of booking.

We highly recommend that you purchase Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance. We recommend Redpoint Insurance, you can find details here.

*Terms and conditions apply - read more here.

Useful Info

Find answers to questions you may have about your epic adventure in Peru and the Galapagos Islands of Ecuador.

Where does the trip start?

On the first day of the trip we’ll meet you at Hacienda Jimenita in Quito at 6pm for dinner with your fellow adventurers. You are welcome to book your pre-trip stay at this hotel directly or any other hotel in Quito, though you must make your own way to Hacienda Jimenita at the pre-designated time.

Where does the trip end?

Your trip ends with a flight back to Quito Airport (UIO), in time for flights below. If you have left any luggage at Hacienda Jimenita, we can arrange for this to be transported to Quito Airport to meet us on arrival. If you're staying on in Quito, you'll need to arrange your own transport.

What flights would you recommend?

Arrival: We recommend arriving in Quito by 12pm. Many guests like to arrive a day or two early to accommodate potential flight delays and/or explore the city prior to your trip start.

Departure: Flying out on the last day of the trip, we recommend departing from Quito after 8pm for domestic and 9pm for international. Earlier flight times will require a separate transfer booked at your own expense.

What accommodations do we stay at on this trip?

The Galapagos Islands are located in a unique and remote part of the world, and to maintain an eco-friendly relationship with the environment, large modern hotels aren’t built. We prefer to stay in locally owned accommodation, which can be fairly rustic, to give you a better opportunity to meet the locals and gain a real understanding of life in the islands. We’re also lucky to be able to stay on land every night of the trip where as some operators aren’t permitted to do this.

We recommend bringing enough clothing to not have to do laundry during your trip.

How fit do I need to be for this trip?

Hikes on this tour are considered easy to moderate, so a good level of fitness is recommended. Most hikes typically take between two to four hours, though some days may involve more or less hiking depending on the itinerary.

Please head to our Fitness Guide for great tips on how to prepare along with a workout plan!

Why Travel With Us

A love of adventure, born in New Zealand

Our passion for exploration is rooted in a strong connection to the natural beauty of our home, New Zealand, and the drive to venture beyond its shores to discover a world different to our own.

Life-changing, rewarding experiences in breathtaking places

We believe the best journeys don’t just take you places, they inspire you and ignite your spirit. Our unique and thoughtfully designed itineraries ensure you'll experience the very best of each destination.

Expert guides, deep local connections

Feel the heart and soul of each place you visit with our local people on the ground and knowledgeable guides, who take great care to ensure a truly authentic and immersive experience. This is the real deal.

Flexible, personalized experiences

We take the time to get to know you to ensure you have the very best experience on our trips. Our small group adventures are big on flexibility. No matter what your version of "active" is, we have options on each trip to suit every individual.

We welcome all adventurers

Traveling solo, as a pair, or as part of a group? No worries, you'll be comfortable on our trips. Every trip is personalized with care by our team so everyone feels supported and free to enjoy their unforgettable adventure.

All-inclusive

Imagine a vacation that's fully guided, and everything is taken care of and included in the trip price — all accommodations, activities, transport on-trip, most meals, and more! Effortless and value-packed.