Galapagos Islands by Boat
Nature Lover's Paradise
February 1 - February 9, 2027
Galapagos Islands by Boat
February 1 - February 9, 2027Highlights
- Spend 5 days/4 nights exploring the Galapagos by ship
- Learn about Galapagos Giant Tortoises
- Watch Land Iguanas feed in Cacti Forests
- Explore Quito, the capital city of Ecuador
- Suggestions for additional things to see
- And More... See itinerary for details
Activity
Read more about WTT Activity Levels
- 40% Easy
- 45% Moderate (walking tours, getting in and out of boats)
- 15% Strenuous (hiking on uneven terrain, altitude)
This tour is more active than most WTT tours! You will need to get in/out of pangas (small boats) when shuttling to islands in the Galapagos. Having the ability to swim will make this journey more enjoyable. Most trails on the Galapagos Islands are rocky and uneven. We begin and end in Quito, which is located at 9,350-feet above sea level, which can be taxing on the body. Altitude sickness is hard to predict, but the majority of people will experience some symptoms. The best way to adjust is to keep well-hydrated and take it slowly.
Your Responsibilities as a Solo Traveler
As a solo traveler you are responsible for yourself, your possessions, your physical fitness, and all other aspects related to participation in the WTT tour you have chosen. Be sure to read the itinerary closely to better understand the physical requirements necessary for the tour.
WTT tours are not suitable for anyone whose mobility is challenged or compromised. If you struggle with walking, standing or negotiating stairs or if you are in doubt as to your ability to meet the physical activity requirements, you should not sign up for this trip.
Itinerary
Monday, 01 February 2027: Arrive Quito, Ecuador; Welcome Dinner (D)
Schedule your flight into Quito, Ecuador, to arrive no later than 2:00pm. Several staggered timed group transfers from the airport to the hotel will be provided. The tour begins at 5:00pm in the lobby of the hotel where we will gather for our Welcome Meeting. We'll make introductions and then enjoy our Welcome Dinner together to get better acquainted and discuss our upcoming adventures of the week. Overnight Quito - 3 nights
Tuesday, 02 February 2027: Full Day City Tour of Quito; Middle of the World (B)
We're up early today as we depart for a tour through the streets and squares of the historic center of Quito, the first city in the world to be declared by UNESCO as a "World Cultural Heritage Site" in recognition of its architectural and artistic value. Narrow and sometimes steep streets are surrounded by a great exhibition of classic architecture. Though the equator runs through many cities around the world, Quito has become famous for it. We will stop at the Equatorial Monument which marks the "Middle of the World" and proceed to the true equator at latitude 0º 0º 0º, where one can stand with a foot in each hemisphere. The Inti Nan Museum, built on the true equator, has a signpost that indicates when you are standing in the center of the earth.
Wednesday, 03 February 2027: Day Trip to Otavalo Market (B)
Nestled in the Andean highlands and surrounded by volcanoes, Otavalo is the site of the largest market in South America. Here Ecuador's numerous indigenous groups come to barter for both crafts and staples. On the way, we visit the village of Cayambe to taste classic "biscochos" (biscuits). After visiting the market, we'll stop in Cotacachi, known for its hand-crafted leather products, and in Peguche, known for its weaving. We return to Quito late this afternoon.
Thursday, 04 February 2027: Fly to Galápagos; Board the Ship; Cruise to San Cristobal Island; Hiking (B,L,D)
We have an early start today with a morning flight to San Cristobal Island. Upon arrival we transfer to our boat, the Galapagos Legend. We'll get settled and have lunch onboard. This afternoon, we make a dry landing for our first stop, the San Cristobal Interpretation Center. The center provides an overview of how the Galapagos Islands were formed and their significance in the world. We learn about continued conservation efforts to protect the islands and its vast wildlife. Then, we hike for about one hour along an uphill path to Tijeretas Hill to enjoy the views overlooking Shipwreck Bay and Kicker Rock. Be on the lookout for the Frigatebird! We return to the boat this afternoon to relax and enjoy dinner together. Overnight onboard Galapagos Legend - 4 nights
Friday, 05 February 2027: Española Island - Gardner Bay & Suarez Point (B,L,D)
Today, our destination is Española, the oldest island in the Galapagos. Known as a "true jewel" of the Galapagos, the island is home to a high number of endemic species such as the waved albatross. We begin with a wet landing at Gardner Bay, an area known for it's stunning white sandy beaches and a popular nesting site for sea turtles. We walk leisurely along the beaches observing colonies of sea lions and more. There is a snorkeling opportunity from the beach to see wildlife from a different angle. Enjoy lunch back on board while we travel to Suarez Point. Here we are greeted by marine iguanas as we set off to enjoy a 2-hour hike along rocky terrain. This difficult hike is well worth it as we could get close to the famous blue-footed boobies, endemic lizards, gulls and more. Along the island's dramatic setting of volcanic cliffs and rocky coastlines, we find a picturesque blowhole shooting water 75 feet into the air. We return to the boat this evening to relax and enjoy dinner on board.
Saturday, 06 February 2027: Floreana Island - Post Office Bay & Cormorant Point (B,L,D)
Floreana Island is home to the oldest functioning post office system in the Pacific. In 1793, Captain James Colnett set up this unique, stampless postal arrangement. Whalers and fur sealers could leave addressed letters in a barrel that were then picked up by homeward bound colleagues and delivered locally. In the spirit of maintaining this tradition, visitors still take letters and hand deliver them in their home countries. We'll take a short walk to see the post office barrel and explore the island. After lunch on board, we make our way on foot to Cormorant Point. We'll find the typical white sand beaches but also a green sand beach. It's green hue is due to olivine crystals that have eroded from nearby volcanic rocks. Our walk begins here and follows along flat, sandy terrain to a large, shallow lagoon often visited by pink flamingos! We continue our walk along the beaches. In the shallow water you may spot diamond stingrays and perhaps even a white-tipped reef shark. We'll have the opportunity to snorkel at Devil's Crown, once a volcanic crater that is now a ring of rocks just off of the shore which is home to creole fish, parrotfish and more. We return to the boat late this afternoon.
Sunday, 07 February 2027: Santa Cruz Island - Dragon Hill & Punta Bowditch (B,L,D)
Today, we're off to Santa Cruz Island, the second largest island in the Galapagos. We arrive at a small lava dock where iguanas can be seen blending in perfectly with the island's dark rock. On the moderate walk along the island, we observe large prickly pear cacti and see a sickle-shaped beach with views of Dragon Hill. In the 1970s, almost all of the island's iguanas were wiped out. The Charles Darwin Research Center stepped in to assist in conservation efforts that led to successful breeding that continues today. We will spend a relaxing afternoon on Punta Bowditch where we can lie on the powdery beach, snorkel in the turquoise water or walk beside salt pools and dried white coral. We return to the boat late this afternoon.
Monday, 08 February 2027: Highlands Tortoise Reserve; Fly to Quito; Farewell Dinner (B,D)
We leave the coast today and head to the humid forest to visit the Highlands Tortoise Reserve. The journey to the reserve offers excellent opportunities to see the contrasting ecosystems. This is often a birdwatchers' treat as almost every land bird on the island calls this home or migrates here. Giant tortoises are often found along the way too. After our visit, we make our way to Baltra Island's Seymour Airport and return to Quito this afternoon, where we'll stay near the airport for the sake of convenience. Tonight, we gather for our Farewell Dinner together and recount our adventures of the week. Overnight Quito - 1 night
Tuesday, 09 February 2027: Return Home from Quito (B)
Sadly, our time together has come to an end. Schedule your return flight to depart at your convenience. Based on the departure time you provide WTT, your Tour Leader can assist with coordination of ride-sharing to the airport.
The Galapagos Legend is a standard accommodations vessel with twin berths and private facilities in each cabin.
This vessel is not private to WTT.
Itinerary subject to change based on sea conditions or at the discretion of the captain.
Galapagos Islands by Boat
February 1 - February 9, 2027Pricing
Room Share
$8,341.00Single Room
Not AvailableNon-Members
ADD $100.00Status of this Tour
Space Available
Tour Pricing Includes
- All meals and activities expressly listed in the itinerary, PLUS...
- WTT Tour Leader to enhance the individual & group experience
- Galapagos National Park Entry Permit
- Galapagos Tourist Transit Card fee
- Grouped Airport Arrival Transfers
- Internal flights to and from the Galapagos National Park
- Snorkeling gear use
- Arranged cabin sharing with another solo traveler
- Travel Dollar credits (a benefit of WTT membership) toward future travel with WTT
Not Included In The Price
- Airfare or other transportation to and from the tour
- Departure Transfer
- Meals and activities not specified in the itinerary
- Rentals such as wetsuits, kayaks, and scuba diving equipment
- Beverages other than coffee, tea & still water unless otherwise noted
- Internet plans on the boat
- Any personal expenses or expenditures
- Any pre- or post- tour arrangements
- Passport fees
- Any gratuities for the ship crew (Budget $60 - $80USD)
- Any gratuities for the on-board naturalist (Budget $40USD)
- Any gratuities for the WTT Tour Director
- Trip Cancellation / Trip Interruption Insurance
- Mandatory Emergency Medical / Evacuation Insurance
NOTE: Mandatory Emergency Medical/Evacuation Insurance is required to take this trip. See "Insurance Reminder" section for suggested companies who sell this insurance.
Payment Dates -and- Cancellation Terms for This Tour
You have 3 days to cancel and receive a refund. Thereafter, the amount required at time of reservation is non-refundable and the following cancellation penalties will be enforced.
Wednesday, 15 Jul 2026: Last day $750 deposit can be converted to a credit for use on a new reservation; thereafter the deposit is forfeited.
Saturday, 26 Sep 2026: Balance Due. Cancellation after this date but before Thursday, 3 Dec 2026 results in a cancellation penalty of 75% of your Total Tour Cost.
Thursday, 3 Dec 2026: Cancellation on or after this date results in a cancellation penalty of 100% of your Total Tour Cost.
Using Parked Credits: If traveler cancels during the 3-day cancel without penalty period, used credits will be re-parked with the original expiration date(s). Thereafter, cancellation will result in forfeiture of the total amount of parked credits used. If applicable, additional cancellation penalties will be assessed based on date of cancellation.
To Cancel: Should you need to cancel after your space on this tour is confirmed, you must use the Cancellation Form. Cancellation penalties are based on the date we receive your cancellation form. No other method of communicating a cancellation will be accepted.
Insurance Reminder
Standard health insurance plans often do not cover medical emergencies in other countries. As a solo traveler, insurance is essential to provide support and care coordination in the event of a medical emergency. It must cover air-evacuation from the destination as a result of a medical emergency during the trip.
Suggested companies for Emergency Medical/Evacuation Insurance are: Allianz Travel Insurance and World Nomads.
Trip Cancellation / Trip Interruption Insurance is not included in the cost of the tour. It is your responsibility to determine the amount and type of coverage you require to recoup some or all of your travel investment, whether you cancel, are unable to complete the tour, or the tour cannot operate. Section 4.0 of WTT Terms & Conditions explains what will happen to your payments in the unlikely event that your tour cannot operate. You can purchase travel insurance from any provider you choose. To get an idea of rates, please go to NTA Travel Protection Plan (Enter 206063 for the "Tour Operator Location #") or TravelGuard.
Galapagos Islands by Boat
February 1 - February 9, 2027Flights, Transfers & Lodging
Documents Required for this Tour
Passport: Travelers are required to have a valid passport. Most countries require your passport to be valid up to six months after your RETURN date, and have at least two consecutive blank pages.
VISA: US citizens do not need a Visa to enter Ecuador. All other passport holders should check with the Country's Embassy website to determine if they need a VISA. VISA requirements are based on your country of residence.
Arrival & Departure Information
Arrival Airport: UIO - Quito, Ecuador (Mariscal Sucre Intl'l Airport - Quito)
Arrival Date: Monday, February 1. Arrive no later than 2:00pm.
Arrival Transfer: Group transfers included based on flight arrival times. Details provided in Final Travel Instructions.
Departure Airport: UIO - Quito, Ecuador (Mariscal Sucre Intl'l Airport - Quito)
Departure Date: Tuesday, February 9th. Depart at your convenience.
Departure Transfer: Use the hotel courtesy shuttle.
When to Book Your Air
Once you have booked your flights (or other transportation arrangements), use the Travel Arrangements Form to send WTT your flight details. Use the same form to update your information should it change.
Airport Transfer Information
Getting from the airport to the hotel (i.e. the arrival transfer) can be a point of concern for some travelers. Locate the "Arrival and Departure Information" -OR- "Want to Arrive a Day Early?" on this page for arrival transfer information.
When arrival transfers are included: The Final Travel Instructions will list the transfer arrangements including who is in your transfer group, where to meet the driver, and who to contact in the unlikely event you cannot locate the driver.
Don't Worry. We're Expecting You: One of the reasons we ask for your travel arrangements is so we know when you're arriving and can approximate when you should be at the hotel. Your Final Travel Instructions will have instructions on what to do and who to contact if your flight is delayed.
Lodging / Hotels
Quito: Go Quito Hotel
Onboard: Galapagos Legend
Quito: Wyndham Quito Airport Hotel
The Galapagos Legend is a stylish expedition vessel with a total of 56 cabins. We are holding Junior Suite Twin Cabins which feature twin beds and private facilities in each cabin. Onboard features include a library, auditorium, swimming pool and 2 jacuzzis.
In the unlikely event WTT is unable to provide the hotel accommodation(s) listed, for whatever reason, WTT will substitute similar quality accommodation(s) at no additional cost to the traveler.
Want to Arrive a Day Early?
Worried about possible flight delays? Consider arriving one day before the official tour start date. Many of our travelers choose this optional service. Your pre-tour package includes:
- The room (standard check-in times apply)
- Breakfast the following morning
- Transfer from airport to hotel
- Optional activity suggestions prior to tour
$182.00 Roomshare pp $303.00 Single Occupancy
The pre-tour package is an optional service. Rates are established at time of tour posting. Early check-in is solely at the discretion of the hotel and cannot be arranged in advance.
Early Arrival Hotel: This tour uses the same hotel used on the first night of the tour.
Additional Reminders About This Tour
Galapagos Islands by Boat
February 1 - February 9, 2027Destination Information
What do others say about this tour and traveling with WTT?
How Does Room Sharing Work?
On the Reservation Form there are 3 choices regarding room-sharing.
Note: Certain room-types may be unavailable at the time you make your reservation. If a room-type is unavailable the choice will be greyed out.
- Select "Yes, I want to share a room" and WTT will assign you a roommate when Final Travel Instructions are sent.
- You can specify a roommate by entering her name where indicated. If your named roommate is not on the tour, for any reason, WTT will assign you a roommate unless you pay to have your own room, if available.
- Select "No, I do not wish to share a room" if you want to have your own room. Additional costs apply.
- All shared rooms have 2 beds
- All shared rooms are non-smoking
- No special requests about your roommate can be accommodated
- See "Frequently Asked Questions" TAB for more details
How Active is this Tour?
- 40% Easy
- 45% Moderate (walking tours, getting in and out of boats)
- 15% Strenuous (hiking on uneven terrain, altitude)
This tour is more active than most WTT tours! You will need to get in/out of pangas (small boats) when shuttling to islands in the Galapagos. Having the ability to swim will make this journey more enjoyable. Most trails on the Galapagos Islands are rocky and uneven. We begin and end in Quito, which is located at 9,350-feet above sea level, which can be taxing on the body. Altitude sickness is hard to predict, but the majority of people will experience some symptoms. The best way to adjust is to keep well-hydrated and take it slowly.
Your Responsibilities as a Solo Traveler
As a solo traveler you are responsible for yourself, your possessions, your physical fitness, and all other aspects related to participation in the WTT tour you have chosen. Be sure to read the itinerary closely to better understand the physical requirements necessary for the tour.
WTT tours are not suitable for anyone whose mobility is challenged or compromised. If you struggle with walking, standing or negotiating stairs or if you are in doubt as to your ability to meet the physical activity requirements, you should not sign up for this trip.
What is the Group Size?
You will be introduced to the WTT Tour Leader when you receive your Final Travel Instructions, about 2-3 weeks before the tour begins.
Learn about your fellow travelers after final payment by visiting MyWTT. Room sharing assignments will be listed in the Final Travel Instructions.
What meals are included and how are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Each day of the itinerary lists the included meals for that day (B,L,D,O). When a meal is not included, the WTT Tour Leader will have suggestions for where to eat.
You do not have to dine alone unless it is your personal choice. You'll most likely be dining with new acquaintances you've made, or you can join the Tour Leader.
Dietary Restrictions: Vegetarian and gluten-free dietary requests can be accommodated on this tour with limited selections.
What clothing and items should I pack for this trip?
In general, daytime temperatures in the Galapagos Islands are in the low 70s, dropping to the 50s at night. Wet suits are available on board.
For This Trip You'll Need—
- Active and comfortable clothing
- Swimsuit
- Reef safe sunscreen, sunglasses, hat & insect repellent
- Lightweight but warm fleece or jacket for cool mornings and evenings.
- At least one pair of shorts and one pair long pants/hiking pants (denim is not ideal)
- Sturdy walking or hiking shoes with good tread
- Sport sandals that can get wet and still provide traction
- Comfortable deck shoes
- Brimmed hat for protection from the sun
- Reusable water bottle
- Light rain jacket
You May Also Want—
- If you are prone to motion or sea sickness, bring anti-motion medication.
- Binoculars
- Immodium or Pepto-Bismol
- Electrolyte Packets
Good Packing Habits—
- Bring what you need to get a good night's sleep, such as ear plugs, white noise generator, sleeping aids, etc. Unfamiliar noises of all types can disrupt your rest.
- Pack a limited amount of comfortable, casual clothing that layer and coordinate. Your fellow travelers will not mind or even notice – seeing you in the same clothing.
- Bring only two pairs of everyday shoes: one pair of well-broken-in walking shoes, and a second pair that could do double-duty as a walking shoe or a slightly dressy shoe.
- Pare down your beauty regimen to the bare minimum and always pack travel-sized toiletries.
- Pack medication in your carry-on and pack only as much as needed for the duration of your tour plus a few extra days as a precaution.
What are the luggage restrictions for this tour?
On every WTT tour, our policies regarding luggage restrictions are driven by the physical space limitations of the vehicles we use, the requirement that all travelers be able to manage their own belongings without assistance and the restrictions imposed by other forms of transportation such as boats and small planes.
- We strongly recommend you travel using a soft-sided duffel bag. It makes for tucking your luggage away on the boat easier and frees up space in your cabin.
- You are responsible for managing your own belongings. You must be able to navigate airports and get on and off the excursion ship, with your belongings and without assistance. You will not have time to search for a porter.
- We recommend you carry a day pack. It makes carrying a camera, water, extra sunscreen, etc. easier than using a purse.
- Steps exist at most hotel entrances. On occasion the coach must unload passengers and luggage some distance from the hotel entrance.
- The Galapagos are a protected National Park. Your luggage will be subject to inspection upon arrival and departure.
What are the health recommendations for this tour?
The standards for health and hygiene in Ecuador are average.
- You will want to drink bottled water, forgo ice, and use bottled water to brush your teeth, while in Ecuador.
- In Quito, some people may be affected by altitude and become light-headed or dizzy and perhaps nauseous. If you experience any symptoms, drink lots of water, rest and take aspirin.
What are the phone and internet recommendations for this tour?
Only you can determine your need to stay in contact while traveling.
- You should understand what your current cell phone plan includes in terms of data and minutes. Some, like certain T-Mobile plans, include an international package.
- Contact your cell phone service provider before departing about adding an international calling plan. Most carriers have flat daily rates which will allow your US-based phone to be functional upon arrival in a foreign country.
- Managing data while traveling internationally is important. Using WiFi when available and communicating through apps like What's App help you manage data usage while traveling.
- Learn how to make an international call BEFORE you leave. Consult your cell provider and check out the website www.HowtoCallAbroad.com.
What are the electricity requirements for this tour?
Outlets in the hotel and aboard ship are North American-style plugs. No adapters or converters are necessary.
How much money should I bring on this tour?
Only you can determine the optimum amount of cash to take on tour. When budgeting for out-of-pocket expenses, there are several aspects to consider: the number of meals you are responsible for, individual shopping interests and habits, and tipping responsibilities. More and more, restaurants are no longer allowing groups to split the bill. Therefore, you might want to have cash-on-hand for meals on your own when dining with others in the group.
- Ecuador’s official currency is the US Dollar. Ecuadorean coins are still in circulation and are equivalent to the denominations as US coins.
- Ecuador is a cash-based society, particularly in the Galapagos Islands.
- While on board the boat in the Galapagos Islands, cash must be used for additional purchases.
- Be sure to have small bills on hand in Guayaquil and Quito for public transportation, small purchases, and tipping. It is not uncommon for businesses to have trouble giving change for a $20 bill.
What are the tipping guidelines for this tour?
We suggest you budget $60 for services rendered.
- $40 for the crew
- $20 for the naturalist guide
- Tipping transfer drivers, waitstaff, porters, or other individuals who provide a service directly to you.
- Porters expect $1-$2. A 5-10% tip is sufficient in most restaurants unless the service has been exceptional. There is no need to tip taxi drivers as it’s recommended to negotiate fares before departure.
- You may want to tip your WTT Tour Leader for an outstanding job. The amount is entirely a personal preference. If you'd like a guideline, consider $8-$10 per day.
What other Additional Information do I need to know?
Can I transfer my deposit to another tour?
To get off this tour and register for another tour, you must follow these steps - in the order shown:
2) WAIT before submitting your new reservation! You must receive the Cancellation Confirmation email before submitting your new reservation. This can take up to 2 business days. The Cancellation Confirmation email will list the amount of parked credits from this tour that are now available to use on a new reservation.
3) COMPLETE the new Reservation Form and USE the parked credits towards your deposit on the new tour.
Note: If you used Parked Credits to pay the deposit on this tour, these credits cannot be used a second time and are not eligible to be transferred.
What happens if I need to cancel this tour?
Galapagos Islands by Boat
February 1 - February 9, 2027SPACE RESERVATION REQUEST
If becoming a member and signing up for a tour at the same time, you only need to fill out this form.
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