The Experience
Arguably the greatest destination on the planet for nature travelers is the Galapagos archipelago. Home to myriad species found nowhere else on earth, it was here that Charles Darwin first observed how a species adapts differently to the unique environments on each island. Come, witness first hand the kaleidoscope of plants & wildlife that inspired Darwin – and let it inspire your family’s love of nature!
On this behind-the-scenes wildlife adventure, visit the most famous sites in the archipelago such as Los Tuneles, a series of underwater tubes formed from hardened lava with pristine water that is home to a variety of tropical fish, sea turtles and rays. Kayak off Isabela Island to see the famed blue-footed boobie and if you’re lucky, the Galapagos penguin. We’ll take day trips out to the tiny, uninhabited islands of North Seymour and Pinzon, great places to see majestic frigate birds and land iguanas. Come face-to-face with the famous giant tortoise during a conservation project that we will be part of.
A Trip Designed for Families that Love Wildlife
Experience Discover Corps’ Galapagos side-by-side with some of the best, most renowned naturalist guides on the islands. Journey to off-the-beaten track locales to witness the true splendor that these islands have to offer.
Our Impact
The story of the most famous Galapagos tortoise (and probably the most famous individual to come from the archipelago) is a sad one: when Lonesome George died in 2012, his species died with him. Happily, though, several other species of Galapagos tortoise survive across the islands. These gentle giants can reach up to 6 feet in length and 800 lbs in weight, and you’ll have the chance to meet some and help protect them from harmful invasive plant species.
Despite strict environmental protections, many invasive plant species have been introduced to the Galapagos particularly in the areas that these giant tortoises inhabit. These species grow quickly and can crowd out native species that the islands’ animals depend on. Spend two mornings lending a hand at a sanctuary for giant tortoises, helping out by removing invasive plant species and planting endemic bushes and trees that tortoises eat.
Where You’ll Stay
We’ve chosen a portfolio of hotels that are in prime locations for exploring the islands and relaxing in comfort amongst true Ecuadorian hospitality. The first two nights of the journey will be spent in the cosmopolitan Ecuadorian capital of Quito. Unwind in a centrally-located boutique hotel that puts us within a short drive to many of the city’s main sites. After taking our flight out to the Galapagos Islands, spend the next three nights at a quaint 3-star hotel on the Island of Isabela. Continue on to the Island of Santa Cruz for the last four nights at a 3-star hotel in the charming town of Puerto Ayora. Each hotel reflects the colorful natural surroundings of the islands. Relax by the pool and gardens along the way and take in the slow pace of life.
Itinerary Overview
We’ll spend the first two days exploring the colonial city of Quito, and also visit the actual Equator line, before flying to the islands. We’ll use the islands of Isabela and Santa Cruz as our two bases from which we’ll explore some the most fascinating and breathtaking sites on Baltra, Isabela, Santa Cruz, North Seymour, and Pinzon. Spend two mornings volunteering at a nature reserve for giant tortoises, where they live in the wild.
We’ll help out by removing invasive plant species and planting native bushes and grasses that tortoises eat. Whether you’re hiking through hardened lava tubes, kayaking out to see blue-footed boobies, snorkeling with friendly sea lions, or simply relaxing and soaking it in – there is a lot of variety that helps create lifelong memories.
Your Expert Local Guide
Discover Corps’ expert family of guides around the world are by your side throughout the journey. Please note that the actual guide may vary from date-to-date – Steven & Duncan lead groups separately not together.
Duncan & Steven Divine
This father/son duo are the heart & soul of Discover Corps in the Galapagos Islands. Part of of one of the first families to settle the Galapagos, Steven’s parents sailed down from the United States and arrived in the Galapagos in 1949. Both Steven & Duncan are certified Galapagos National Park Naturalist guides and bring their wealth of knowledge and personal family history to the experience. They are known throughout the islands as two of the top guides so you can rest assured that you are in good hands!
Optional Post-Trip Extension
Discover Corps’ post-trip extensions allow you to extend your experience beyond the core itinerary and explore unique corners of the destination.
Traveler’s Journal
Sharon C.
Sonoma, CA
Read More Discover Corps Reviews
Rating: 5/5 stars
Dates and Prices
Our trips are inclusive of all activities, lodging, transport and most meals to make your experience hassle-free. Please note that the Galapagos does require permits and domestic flights which are included in a mandatory supplement. See details below.
$5,695* Adult
$5,395* Child
- Double Occupancy Price. Children’s pricing applies to travelers 16 years old and younger sharing a room with an adult
- Single Room Supplement = $995. This will guarantee you your own, single occupancy room for the entirety of the trip. If you are a solo traveler and would like us to match you with a roommate of the same gender, please book as double occupancy. See full details here.
- *Price above does not reflect the roundtrip flight from Quito to Galapagos, or Galapagos tax and entrance fee. This cost varies based on local regulations and will be added to your invoice. Currently, the total cost for this is $800. Discover Corps will arrange this domestic flight.
What’s Included:
- 8 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 8 dinners (1 free evening)
- 9 nights accommodations in boutique hotels
- Round-trip flights between Quito and the Galapagos (included in supplement)
- Galapagos Entrance Fee (included in supplement)
- Transportation in private vehicles throughout the trip
- All scheduled activities and excursions including boat trips
- Tips for all day tours, hotels & meals
- Kayak and snorkel rental
- Bilingual expert naturalist guide in the Galapagos
- Bilingual Discover Corps guide in Quito
- 24-hour Discover Corps emergency hotline
What’s Not Included:
- 1 dinner on Santa Cruz
- 1 breakfast when flying to Galapagos (snack served on plane)
- 1 lunch when flying from Galapagos to Quito (snack served on plane)
- Tip for Naturalist Guide in Galapagos
- Alcoholic beverages during meals
Dates
Our intimate, small-group departures consist of like-minded travelers. Don’t see a date that works? Want to make it private? Schedule a personal travel consultation and we’ll make it happen.
2024 Dates
December 26, 2024-January 4, 2025 $200 Holiday Supplement
2025 Dates
January 11-20, 2025
February 8-17, 2025
April 5-14, 2025
May 10-19, 2025
June 7-16, 2025
June 21-30, 2025
July 5-14, 2025
July 19-28, 2025
August 2-11, 2025
Sept 13-22, 2025
October 11-20, 2025
December 26, 2025-January 4, 2026 $200 Holiday Supplement
2026 Dates
January 10-19, 2026
February 7-16, 2026
April 4-13, 2026
May 9-18, 2026
June 20-29, 2026
July 4-13, 2026
August 1-10, 2026
September 12-21, 2026
October 10-19, 2026
December 26-January 4, 2027 $200 Holiday Supplement
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Alumni & Family Discounts, Monthly Payment Plans, and More
Repeat travelers and groups are eligible for discounts. Looking for a payment plan to help manage your trip? Learn more here.
Customized Private Trips
Let us create a custom trip for your group. Learn more about custom group travel.