Expedition to Galapagos through a wild haven of sea lions, iguanas, rare birds, colossal tortoises, and the famed blue-footed boobies with biologist Ivan Kvasov
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
May 15 - 19, 2026
Ecuador, Galapagos islands
Tour to Galapagos Islands
May 15 - 19, 2026
Ecuador, Galapagos islands
Tour to Galapagos Islands
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Galapagos Islands living museum nature unique encounters discoveries crystal-clear waters marine iguanas black lava rocks sea lions sea turtles vibrant fish underwater world Darwin trails revolutionary ideas explorer scientists rare species conservation singular place Earth
The Galapagos Islands are a living museum of nature, where every moment is filled with unique encounters and discoveries. Imagine yourself gliding over crystal-clear waters, surrounded by marine iguanas. Around you, mesmerizing beaches are dotted with black lava rocks, and sea lions, completely unafraid of humans, lounge nearby.
Dive into the pristine waters to witness remarkable sea turtles and vibrant fish that paint the underwater world with their dazzling colors. Walk the trails once trodden by Darwin himself, and explore the revolutionary ideas that shaped the course of science.
Feel like an explorer as you join scientists in their efforts to protect rare species that make the Galapagos a truly singular place on Earth.
Dive into the pristine waters to witness remarkable sea turtles and vibrant fish that paint the underwater world with their dazzling colors. Walk the trails once trodden by Darwin himself, and explore the revolutionary ideas that shaped the course of science.
Feel like an explorer as you join scientists in their efforts to protect rare species that make the Galapagos a truly singular place on Earth.
SHEDULE AND COST:
Travel dates: May 15 – 19, 2026
Duration: 5 days / 4 nights
Number of participants: 6 – 11
Price per person (based on double occupancy):
Single occupancy supplement: 560 USD (single occupancy is available throughout the itinerary)
Early Bird Discount: 10% off for bookings made before December 14, 2025
TRAVEL PROGRAM: TOUR TO ECUADOR - GALAPAGOS
Day 1 – May 15, 2026 QUITO/GUAYAQUIL – BALTRA ISLAND (GALÁPAGOS) – SANTA CRUZ ISLAND
Flight from Quito or Guayaquil to the Galápagos Islands, arriving at Baltra Airport.
For those already traveling in mainland Ecuador, a transfer will be arranged from the hotel in Quito to the airport.We land by 10:00 AM and immediately begin our adventure. Upon arrival at Baltra Airport, our guide will meet us, assist with luggage, and accompany us to the shuttle bus. A short 10-minute ride takes us to the Itabaca Channel, which separates Baltra from Santa Cruz Island. After a brief ferry crossing, we’ll continue by private transportation across Santa Cruz Island to the town of Puerto Ayora, where our hotel is located.
As we travel, landscapes shift dramatically—from arid red rocky plains in the north to lush green highlands in the south. En route to the hotel, we’ll stop in the highlands of Santa Cruz to explore the island’s agricultural zones and unique flora and fauna, including the iconic Darwin’s finches. We’ll have the rare opportunity to observe giant Galápagos tortoises in their natural habitat and learn how local farms contribute to the conservation of their environment.
We’ll also explore ancient lava tunnels—formed by cooling lava flows descending from volcanoes—some of which stretch all the way to the coast. While some tunnels have collapsed, others remain intact and are accessible for a 30-minute guided walk.
Lunch is included and will be served before we check in at the Ikala Galápagos Hotel 4* in Puerto Ayora. In the afternoon, we’ll relax at Tortuga Bay, a pristine white-sand beach famous for its tranquility and wildlife. We may spot marine iguanas, reef sharks, and sea turtles, and enjoy some snorkeling. The trail to the beach offers views of migratory birds and an immersion in the serene natural surroundings. Evening at leisure and overnight at Ikala Galápagos Hotel 4*.
Accommodation: Ikala Galápagos Hotel 4*
Meals: Lunch
Recommended flights to Baltra on May 15:
Recommended international flights to Quito:
Day 2 – May 16, 2026 SANTA CRUZ ISLAND – SANTA FE ISLAND – SANTA CRUZ ISLAND
In the early morning, we can visit the Puerto Ayora fish market, located right on the waterfront. It’s a lively and photogenic place where sea lions, pelicans, and frigatebirds gather in hopes of a fishy snack, offering a great opportunity for close wildlife observation.
After breakfast, we head to the dock and board our boat for a one-hour cruise to Santa Fe Island.
Santa Fe boasts a unique landscape of towering prickly pear cacti (up to 5 meters tall) and aromatic palo santo trees, evoking an ancient forest. We’ll encounter native wildlife such as blue-footed boobies, swallow-tailed gulls, tropicbirds, and petrels nesting on the cliffs—each playing a crucial role in the island’s delicate ecosystem.
The calm, crystal-clear waters of Santa Fe’s lagoon are perfect for snorkeling. Here, we’ll swim with playful sea lions, green sea turtles, marine iguanas, and various types of rays. It's a rare chance to feel part of this extraordinary habitat, even just for a moment.
We return to the boat for a freshly prepared lunch onboard, then cruise back to Santa Cruz by around 4:00 PM. Evening at leisure and overnight at Ikala Galápagos Hotel 4*.
Optional: A full-day scuba diving tour may be arranged instead of the Santa Fe boat tour (no additional cost).
Accommodation: Ikala Galápagos Hotel 4*
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 3 – May 17, 2026 SANTA CRUZ ISLAND – ISABELA ISLAND
At 7:00 AM, after breakfast, we take a 2.5-hour boat transfer to Isabela Island. Upon arrival, we’ll transfer to Cormorant Beach House 3*, a beachfront hotel located on Playa Puerto Villamil. This wild, scenic beach is ideal for sunbathing and swimming. Its eastern end serves as a marine nesting ground, and toward the far end, dozens of marine iguanas can often be seen resting on the rocks.
After a short break, we’ll try on our snorkeling gear in preparation for the day’s aquatic activities. For those who prefer a slower pace, Concha de Perla offers a relaxing spot for wildlife viewing. This picturesque bay teems with colorful fish, sea urchins, sea lions, and turtles. Afterward, we return to the hotel.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant featuring regional cuisine.
In the afternoon, we’ll visit Las Tintoreras, a small islet south of Puerto Villamil nestled in a turquoise bay. It’s home to sea lions, marine iguanas, sea turtles, and rays. The highlight here is a channel where reef sharks rest and can be easily spotted during a short walk across solidified lava fields. Return to the hotel for a peaceful evening.
Accommodation: Cormorant Beach House
Meals: Breakfast
Day 4 – May 18, 2026 SIERRA NEGRA VOLCANO TREK – LOS TUNELES SNORKELING ADVENTURE
Early in the morning, after breakfast, we gear up for a day of exploration: hiking shoes, waterproof ponchos, jackets, sunblock, water, and hats are all essential. Cameras should be packed in plastic bags for protection against possible rain—weather in the highlands can be unpredictable. We’ll take a 35-minute drive (by bus or van, depending on group size) to the Galápagos National Park checkpoint, 22 kilometers from Puerto Villamil. From here begins our trek. The hike is approximately 3–4 kilometers round trip (about 2 hours in total), with a steady but gentle incline—suitable even for those new to hiking. Optional horseback riding is available for an additional fee.
Our goal is the massive Sierra Negra Volcano crater, measuring nearly 9 kilometers in diameter and 100 meters deep, making it the second-largest volcanic crater in the world. The view is simply breathtaking. After the hike and return to town, we board a speedboat for a 45-minute journey to one of the archipelago’s most iconic sites—Los Tuneles.
This otherworldly marine landscape features a labyrinth of lava arches and tunnels both above and below the surface. We begin with a short boat tour of this natural wonder before snorkeling in the surrounding waters. Here, we can encounter vibrant fish, rays, sea turtles, and even Galápagos penguins, sharing the waters with sea lions in a one-of-a-kind marine encounter.
Please note: the Los Tuneles tour is subject to sea conditions — your safety and comfort are our top priorities. Evening at leisure.
Accommodation: Cormorant Beach House
Meals: Breakfast or breakfast boxes, Lunch or lunch boxes
Day 5 – May 19, 2026 ISABELA ISLAND – SANTA CRUZ ISLAND – BALTRA AIRPORT
05:30 AM – Early morning transfer to the dock.
2.5-hour speedboat ride to Santa Cruz Island.
Upon arrival – 1-hour transfer to Baltra Airport (with driver only, no guide).
Check-in for your return flight to Quito or Guayaquil.
Recommended flights from Baltra on May 19:
Recommended international departures:
Note: The tour operator is not responsible for any changes in the schedules of local airlines after booking. All efforts will be made to minimize disruption to the itinerary. Modifications may occur due to force majeure, changes in domestic flight availability, or use of charter services. Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended to cover any potential risks or inconveniences during the journey.
Duration: 5 days / 4 nights
Number of participants: 6 – 11
Price per person (based on double occupancy):
- 2,890 USD – subject to 10 – 11 participants
- 3,050 USD – subject to 8 – 9 participants
- 3,350 USD – subject to 6 – 7 participants
Single occupancy supplement: 560 USD (single occupancy is available throughout the itinerary)
Early Bird Discount: 10% off for bookings made before December 14, 2025
TRAVEL PROGRAM: TOUR TO ECUADOR - GALAPAGOS
Day 1 – May 15, 2026 QUITO/GUAYAQUIL – BALTRA ISLAND (GALÁPAGOS) – SANTA CRUZ ISLAND
Flight from Quito or Guayaquil to the Galápagos Islands, arriving at Baltra Airport.
For those already traveling in mainland Ecuador, a transfer will be arranged from the hotel in Quito to the airport.We land by 10:00 AM and immediately begin our adventure. Upon arrival at Baltra Airport, our guide will meet us, assist with luggage, and accompany us to the shuttle bus. A short 10-minute ride takes us to the Itabaca Channel, which separates Baltra from Santa Cruz Island. After a brief ferry crossing, we’ll continue by private transportation across Santa Cruz Island to the town of Puerto Ayora, where our hotel is located.
As we travel, landscapes shift dramatically—from arid red rocky plains in the north to lush green highlands in the south. En route to the hotel, we’ll stop in the highlands of Santa Cruz to explore the island’s agricultural zones and unique flora and fauna, including the iconic Darwin’s finches. We’ll have the rare opportunity to observe giant Galápagos tortoises in their natural habitat and learn how local farms contribute to the conservation of their environment.
We’ll also explore ancient lava tunnels—formed by cooling lava flows descending from volcanoes—some of which stretch all the way to the coast. While some tunnels have collapsed, others remain intact and are accessible for a 30-minute guided walk.
Lunch is included and will be served before we check in at the Ikala Galápagos Hotel 4* in Puerto Ayora. In the afternoon, we’ll relax at Tortuga Bay, a pristine white-sand beach famous for its tranquility and wildlife. We may spot marine iguanas, reef sharks, and sea turtles, and enjoy some snorkeling. The trail to the beach offers views of migratory birds and an immersion in the serene natural surroundings. Evening at leisure and overnight at Ikala Galápagos Hotel 4*.
Accommodation: Ikala Galápagos Hotel 4*
Meals: Lunch
Recommended flights to Baltra on May 15:
- LATAM Chile flight from Quito at 06:51 AM, arriving in Baltra at 09:25 AM
- Or any other flight arriving in Baltra no later than 10:00 AM
Recommended international flights to Quito:
- Avianca flight from Bogotá at 11:10 PM on May 14, arriving in Quito at 12:35 AM on May 15
- Avianca flight from Bogotá at 7:00 PM on May 15, arriving in Quito at 8:35 PM on May 15
- Copa Airlines flight from Panama at 6:35 PM on May 15, arriving in Quito at 8:39 PM on May 15
- Or any flight arriving in Quito no later than 2:00 AM on May 15
Day 2 – May 16, 2026 SANTA CRUZ ISLAND – SANTA FE ISLAND – SANTA CRUZ ISLAND
In the early morning, we can visit the Puerto Ayora fish market, located right on the waterfront. It’s a lively and photogenic place where sea lions, pelicans, and frigatebirds gather in hopes of a fishy snack, offering a great opportunity for close wildlife observation.
After breakfast, we head to the dock and board our boat for a one-hour cruise to Santa Fe Island.
Santa Fe boasts a unique landscape of towering prickly pear cacti (up to 5 meters tall) and aromatic palo santo trees, evoking an ancient forest. We’ll encounter native wildlife such as blue-footed boobies, swallow-tailed gulls, tropicbirds, and petrels nesting on the cliffs—each playing a crucial role in the island’s delicate ecosystem.
The calm, crystal-clear waters of Santa Fe’s lagoon are perfect for snorkeling. Here, we’ll swim with playful sea lions, green sea turtles, marine iguanas, and various types of rays. It's a rare chance to feel part of this extraordinary habitat, even just for a moment.
We return to the boat for a freshly prepared lunch onboard, then cruise back to Santa Cruz by around 4:00 PM. Evening at leisure and overnight at Ikala Galápagos Hotel 4*.
Optional: A full-day scuba diving tour may be arranged instead of the Santa Fe boat tour (no additional cost).
Accommodation: Ikala Galápagos Hotel 4*
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 3 – May 17, 2026 SANTA CRUZ ISLAND – ISABELA ISLAND
At 7:00 AM, after breakfast, we take a 2.5-hour boat transfer to Isabela Island. Upon arrival, we’ll transfer to Cormorant Beach House 3*, a beachfront hotel located on Playa Puerto Villamil. This wild, scenic beach is ideal for sunbathing and swimming. Its eastern end serves as a marine nesting ground, and toward the far end, dozens of marine iguanas can often be seen resting on the rocks.
After a short break, we’ll try on our snorkeling gear in preparation for the day’s aquatic activities. For those who prefer a slower pace, Concha de Perla offers a relaxing spot for wildlife viewing. This picturesque bay teems with colorful fish, sea urchins, sea lions, and turtles. Afterward, we return to the hotel.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant featuring regional cuisine.
In the afternoon, we’ll visit Las Tintoreras, a small islet south of Puerto Villamil nestled in a turquoise bay. It’s home to sea lions, marine iguanas, sea turtles, and rays. The highlight here is a channel where reef sharks rest and can be easily spotted during a short walk across solidified lava fields. Return to the hotel for a peaceful evening.
Accommodation: Cormorant Beach House
Meals: Breakfast
Day 4 – May 18, 2026 SIERRA NEGRA VOLCANO TREK – LOS TUNELES SNORKELING ADVENTURE
Early in the morning, after breakfast, we gear up for a day of exploration: hiking shoes, waterproof ponchos, jackets, sunblock, water, and hats are all essential. Cameras should be packed in plastic bags for protection against possible rain—weather in the highlands can be unpredictable. We’ll take a 35-minute drive (by bus or van, depending on group size) to the Galápagos National Park checkpoint, 22 kilometers from Puerto Villamil. From here begins our trek. The hike is approximately 3–4 kilometers round trip (about 2 hours in total), with a steady but gentle incline—suitable even for those new to hiking. Optional horseback riding is available for an additional fee.
Our goal is the massive Sierra Negra Volcano crater, measuring nearly 9 kilometers in diameter and 100 meters deep, making it the second-largest volcanic crater in the world. The view is simply breathtaking. After the hike and return to town, we board a speedboat for a 45-minute journey to one of the archipelago’s most iconic sites—Los Tuneles.
This otherworldly marine landscape features a labyrinth of lava arches and tunnels both above and below the surface. We begin with a short boat tour of this natural wonder before snorkeling in the surrounding waters. Here, we can encounter vibrant fish, rays, sea turtles, and even Galápagos penguins, sharing the waters with sea lions in a one-of-a-kind marine encounter.
Please note: the Los Tuneles tour is subject to sea conditions — your safety and comfort are our top priorities. Evening at leisure.
Accommodation: Cormorant Beach House
Meals: Breakfast or breakfast boxes, Lunch or lunch boxes
Day 5 – May 19, 2026 ISABELA ISLAND – SANTA CRUZ ISLAND – BALTRA AIRPORT
05:30 AM – Early morning transfer to the dock.
2.5-hour speedboat ride to Santa Cruz Island.
Upon arrival – 1-hour transfer to Baltra Airport (with driver only, no guide).
Check-in for your return flight to Quito or Guayaquil.
Recommended flights from Baltra on May 19:
- Avianca flight at 13:21 PM, arriving in Guayaquil at 16:17 PM
- Avianca flight at 11:33 AM, arriving in Guayaquil at 14:29 PM
- LATAM Chile flight at 11:47 AM, arriving in Guayaquil at 14:38 PM
- Or any flight departing from Baltra to Guayaquil or Quito no earlier than 11:00 AM and no later than 2:00 PM on May 19 or 20
Recommended international departures:
- Avianca at 03:40 AM on May 20 from Guayaquil to Bogotá, arriving at 05:30 AM
- Turkish Airlines at 10:10 AM on May 20 from Guayaquil to Bogotá, arriving at 12:05 PM (requires overnight in Guayaquil on May 19)
- Avianca at 02:35 AM on May 20 from Quito to Bogotá, arriving at 04:05 AM
- Turkish Airlines at 10:20 AM on May 20 from Quito to Bogotá, arriving at 11:55 AM (requires overnight in Quito on May 19)
- Or any other flight departing from Quito or Guayaquil no earlier than 8:00 PM on May 19
Note: The tour operator is not responsible for any changes in the schedules of local airlines after booking. All efforts will be made to minimize disruption to the itinerary. Modifications may occur due to force majeure, changes in domestic flight availability, or use of charter services. Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended to cover any potential risks or inconveniences during the journey.
Cost includes:
- Accommodation in hotels based on double occupancy
- Breakfasts throughout the itinerary, as well as other meals as specified in the program
- Transfers and transportation as outlined in the program, including buses and cars with comfortable seating, working air conditioning, and experienced drivers
- All boats and ferries along the route with skilled captains
- Activities and excursions specified in the program
- Entrance fees as per the itinerary
- All permits for visiting protected areas (including the INGALA migration card for the Galápagos Islands) and national parks (including the fee for Isabela Island in the Galápagos), except for the entrance fee to Galápagos National Park
- Payment for local guides
- Services of English-speaking and Spanish-speaking guides, as well as a Russian-speaking and English-speaking team leader throughout the program
Cost excludes (to be additionally paid):
- International flights to Quito and back from Quito or Guayaquil
- Domestic flights from Quito to the Galápagos Islands and back from the Galápagos Islands to Quito or Guayaquil
- Medical insurance
- Ecuador visa (not required for Russian citizens)
- Entrance fee to Galápagos National Park ($200 for adults or $100 for children under 12 years old; prices may vary)
- Meals not specified in the program
- Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
- Personal expenses and tips
- Payment for excess baggage at the airport
- Early check-in or late check-out at hotels
- Single occupancy
To take with:
- 2 or 3 sets of clothing (pants, long-sleeve shirts, t-shirts)
- Comfortable and practical footwear: 1) lightweight for the city and beach; 2) trekking shoes or closed boots for light trekking
- Lightweight hiking jacket
- Fleece
- Sun hat or cap
- Rain jacket
- Swimwear and accessories
- Snorkel mask and snorkel (optional)
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Personal first aid kit (pain relievers, antiseptics, antibiotics, antivirals, multivitamins, rehydration solutions, and any necessary personal medications)
- Personal hygiene items
- Headlamp and spare batteries
- Hiking backpack (preferably waterproof) with a capacity of around 80 liters, or a travel duffel bag, or a small suitcase
- A small backpack for personal items and photo/video equipment for day trips
- Water bottle or hydration flask
- Mosquito net for sleeping
- Mosquito repellent
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate
- Waterproof case for documents
- Photo and video equipment
- Power bank
KEY FEATURES:
Ecuador. Galapagos Islands. Peru
Best season: all year round
TOUR TO ECUADOR, GALAPAGOS AND PERU
Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
See the Sacred Valley of the Incas and the Rainbow Mountains of Palccoyoc
Live in the Huaorani tribe in the Napo River Basin of the Ecuadorian Amazon
Explore the fauna and flora of Yasuni National Park
Galapagos Islands – it is a place which is not spoiled by man, a real paradise for a naturalist or scuba diver
Snorkeling with turtles, sharks, sea lions, penguins stingrays and other animals
Volcanoes of Cotopaxi and Quilotoa
The famous swing over the abyss in Banos
The amazing Inca cities of Quito and Cuzco
Best season: all year round
TOUR TO ECUADOR, GALAPAGOS AND PERU
Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
See the Sacred Valley of the Incas and the Rainbow Mountains of Palccoyoc
Live in the Huaorani tribe in the Napo River Basin of the Ecuadorian Amazon
Explore the fauna and flora of Yasuni National Park
Galapagos Islands – it is a place which is not spoiled by man, a real paradise for a naturalist or scuba diver
Snorkeling with turtles, sharks, sea lions, penguins stingrays and other animals
Volcanoes of Cotopaxi and Quilotoa
The famous swing over the abyss in Banos
The amazing Inca cities of Quito and Cuzco
This expedition is led by
- IVAN KVASOVTraveler, PhD in Biology, Ivan popularizes science and takes people to different countries.
Ivan knows how to tell interesting stories. And he does it with undisguised pleasure.
Of course, apart from biology, he also discusses geography, history, ethnography, and culture.
Why with MZUNGU EXPEDITIONS?
- UNIQUENESS
We find the most astonishing places on Earth and speed up to reach them. Our motto is to go ahead of road roller, touch the unique and unknown, before it disappears. - ADVENTURISM
Wherever we go, we look for challenging activities and adventures, filling the journey with absolutely different spirit and emotions. That is why people join us over and over again. - SAFETY
In our trips we pay special attention to safety. All our travels are based on personal experience, equipped with the best gear, involving proved providers and experienced local guides who perfectly know local features. - EXPERIENCE
We have a unique experience of the most offbeat expeditions and ascents, deep knowledge of countries and peoples, and are ready to share it with you. All the expeditions and climbs are tested by Mzungu himself and guided by seasoned team-leaders, guaranteeing exciting traveling and your comfort. - REASONABLE PRICE
All our trips are reach in adventures, with high quality accommodation, transportation and meals included. We do not save on it. Thanks to solid contacts with reliable providers we offer really good prices and high quality.
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