Adventure to the Galapagos Islands – 2025

December 8 – 14, 2025

Led by Amazon Tour Leader Edward Yount

Group Size: 15 Traveler Limit

Difficulty: Easy

Interested in joining us for this expedition? Let us know here!

Trip Overview

The Galapagos Islands are a nature lover’s paradise and visiting them is the world’s greatest experience for close-up wildlife encounters. Follow in the footsteps of Charles Darwin and other great explorers to experience the legendary biodiversity that these incredible, remote islands have to offer. Discover the islands’ famous wildlife including Giant Tortoises, Galapagos Sea Lions, Galapagos Penguins, Marine Iguanas, Blue-Footed Boobies, Magnificent Frigatebirds, and more. Not only will we experience the islands’ legendary biodiversity, but we will also have the chance to learn about the unique history of these incredible islands.

Video by Amazonia Trip Leader Edward Yount

Why Travel with Amazonia to the Galapagos Islands?

We work with small & local Galapagos owned businesses. Unfortunately, over the past several years there has been a large push from large international corporations entering the tourism market with huge cruise ships & chain hotels which has been to the detriment of small locally run operators & the fragile environment. By traveling with us you can ensure you are visiting the islands in the most sustainable way for the local people & the environment.

Our Galapagos tours allow you to explore the best of the Galapagos Islands during the day and sleep on dry land in comfortable, eco-lodges at night. Here we will have home-cooked local meals made to our liking every day and experience the incredible hospitality of the Galapagos people.

The trip is wildlife focused, we will be working with some of the best naturalist guides on the island and we always keep in mind to try and see the best wildlife and target species on the islands. This is not a “luxury” trip, but you are still seeing the best that the Galapagos Islands has to offer at an excellent quality and price.

Accommodations

 

Family run ecolodge located in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island in the peaceful community of Bellavista. This community is one of the oldest of the original settlements on the Island of Santa Cruz. Located approximately only 6 km from the tourist center of Puerto Ayora.

Suymar Ecolodge

Day 1 – Baltra Arrival – Tortoise Reserve & Lava Tunnels

Arrival to Baltra Aiport – Galapagos (GPS). You will meet our staff at airport exit area (outside baggage claim). Here you will begin the transfer to our local ecolodge located on Santa Cruz Island. Arrive at the lodge for lunch and time for a short rest or to explore the local area.

After lunch we take a visit to the Twin Craters, these are geological formations, craters of volcanic origin. Take a short walk through the native Scalecia Forest to see the Craters. Several species of birds can potentially be found here, including the Witch Bird (Darwin’s Flycatcher) Woodpecker Finch, Galapagos Mockingbird, etc.

Tortoise Reserve & Lava Tunnels – after visiting the craters we head over to a private Tortoise Reserve of 150 acres, adjacent to the territories of the Galapagos National Park. Here, giant tortoises migrate from the park to this property in certain seasons. On the property there is also a Lava Tunnel nearly 300 meters long which we can explore. Accommodation: Suymar Ecolodge

Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2 – Santa Fe Island – Hidden Beach

Morning transfer to Puerto Ayora for an appx. 1.5-hour navigation to Santa Fe Island. As we navigate near the island’s huge precipices, we can observe a forest of giant endemic cactus and colonies of seabirds, including pelicans, boobies and gulls. On the north end of the island, we will arrive to a calm turquoise bay, inhabited by a large number of sea lions. This is an ideal place to snorkel, swim with sea lions, tropical fish, and occasionally observe and swim with sea turtles.

Lunch on board.

After lunch we will visit the Hidden Beach where we have the opportunity to enjoy the marine iguana population on the beach and explore this unique coastal ecosystem.
Accommodation: Suymar Ecolodge.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 – Pinzon Island

Morning transfer to the port for an appx. 2-hour navigation to Pinzon Island. One of the more isolated and less frequently visited islands in all of Galapagos. Snorkeling will take place in the calm bay on the eastern end of the island. This is an ideal place to snorkel, swim with sea lions, sea turtles, tropical fish, white tipped reef sharks.

Accommodation: Suymar Ecolodge.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 – North Seymour

Morning bus transfer to Itabaca for an appx. 1.5-hour navigation to North Seymour Island, which is a great place for hiking. Here there is a circular path about 2 miles long that crosses through the interior of the island and takes us to explore its unique ecology. This trail will take you through some of the largest seabird colonies in the Galapagos Islands. Here you may have the opportunity to observe the courtship behavior Magnificent Frigatebirds inflating their balloon-like gular sacs & if you are lucky the courtship dance of Blue-footed Boobies. These are some of the more curious attractions of the Galapagos. After lunch, we have the chance to snorkel at a nearby beach which is frequented by sea turtles. Return back to the ecoldoge in the evening for dinner.

Accommodation: Suymar Ecolodge.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 - Bartolome Island – Sullivan Bay

Early morning bus transfer to Itabaca Canal to board the yacht that will take us on the tour of this island with turquoise waters and beautiful white sand beaches. Leave early in the morning with approximately 2-hour navigation to reach the volcanic shores of Bartolome. This is one of the youngest islands of the Galapagos Archipelago where we can see fascinating formations of lava flows, lava bombs and volcanic cones.

Upon arrival, climb a staircase and from the top, you will see a spectacular landscape of two beautiful bays. This is one of the most representative images of the Galapagos archipelago. Near Pinnacle Rock you can also see two beautiful beaches in the form of a crescent. After hiking, we will have the opportunity to snorkel in the bay, where we can hopefully observe sea turtles, sharks, white tip reef sharks, tropical fish, sea lions and many other unique marine species. Also, this is the perfect area to observe the Galapagos Penguins.

Accommodation: Suymar Ecolodge

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 – Garrapatero Beach & Charles Darwin Research Station

Garrapatero Beach – is of the more isolated beaches in the area, appx. 38km from Puerto Ayora. Native forests of trees called manzanillo & eucalyptus dominate the area. Visit a saltwater lagoon where pink flamingos, finches and migratory birds arrive. We have some free time to explore the beach and enjoy the area. Return to hotel for Lunch. In the afternoon we will visit the Charles Darwin Research Station. Founded in 1964 as a base for research on the islands. The Charles Darwin Station has a remit to study the environment and ecosystems of the Galapagos Islands and to understand the biodiversity there. This includes reviewing conservation on the islands, and where necessary taking care of endangered or injured creatures, preparing them for release into the wild. Found on the property are some nature trails and beaches which we can also visit. After visiting the area near the Research Station, we will have some free time to explore the boardwalk of nearby Puerto Ayora. Evening farewell dinner in Puerto Ayora and time to buy any last-minute souvenirs.

Accommodation: Suymar Ecolodge

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7 - Return to Baltra Airport

Breakfast and morning departure from Suymar Ecolodge to Baltra Airport (GPS) in time for your departing flight.

Included: Breakfast

END OF TOUR

Photo Gallery

Photos taken during our recent Amazonia Galapagos trips

Reserve Your Expedition Today!

Deposit – $100
$3,095.00 per person in a double occupancy room
Single in room add $500

Notes on Daily Boat Tours:

All boat tours are on a shared basis. Capacity for boats to Bartolome Island, Plazas, North Seymour Island are between 16-20 passengers. Day trip boats to Cabo Rosa & Santa Fe are smaller and hold between 10-12 passengers.

Daily Boat Tours on Santa Cruz will include:

  • English Speaking Naturalist Guide
  • Snorkeling Gear – Mask, Snorkel, Fins
  • Snacks
  • Drinks
  • Towels
  • Lunch

NOTES:

  • Itinerary subject to changes only if beyond our control (Example: changes/delays to flights, changes in boat schedules, changes due to weather/marine conditions, and/or changes in conservation policies of the Galapagos National Park for the protection of the islands.)
  • Reservation made with deposit of $100 per person
  • Payment can be made by credit card on our PayPal site
  • We strongly recommend the purchase of travel insurance. https://buy.travelguard.com/TGI2/proc/stateselector.aspx?br=agentlink&arc=51868&agentlinkasp=yes

 

Flights:

It is recommended to book a flight with an early arrival time (before appx. 11:00am) to the Galapagos Islands: Baltra Airport (GPS). Departure time from the Galapagos Islands can be anytime on the final day. We can try to be flexible, but late arrivals on the first day mean you might miss some activities.

 

This Trip Includes:

  • Accommodation on Santa Cruz Island
  • All transfers in Galapagos
  • Daily tours as listed on itinerary
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner as listed on itinerary
  • Local Naturalist Guides (English speaking)
  • Shuttle costs from Galapagos Airport to Ferry
  • Baltra Ferry Fees

This Trip DOES NOT Include:

  • Air Ticket to Galapagos
  • Entrance Fee to Galapagos National Park – USD $100.00 per person (subject to change)
  • Tourism (INGALA) Transit Control Card – USD $20.00 per person
    Optional Expenses
  • Tips for Guides, Boat Crew, Hotel Staff
  • Extra Meals & Drinks – beer, sodas, wine.
  • Laundry
  • Other Personal Expenses
  • Any extra activities not listed on the itinerary

Erika

Our time in the jungle was an absolute highlight on our trip to Peru! Truly amazing! …Again, we had the most wonderful time. Almost more than words can say. The jungle and the Tahuayo Lodge hold very special places in our hearts and CAN NOT WAIT to return. Thank you again for offering such an amazing trip.

Renee

Our trip was INCREDIBLE. The lodge was great, the food was amazing, and the staff were all so friendly. We loved our stays at the B&B, the main lodge, and the ARC.

Tia & Paula

It was incredible and a trip of a lifetime Paul! My sister Paula and I had an amazing time and loved everything — your facilities and staff are top notch and I want to come back with my husband and daughters!!

What Our Guests

Have to Say…

Erika

Our time in the jungle was an absolute highlight on our trip to Peru! Truly amazing! …Again, we had the most wonderful time. Almost more than words can say. The jungle and the Tahuayo Lodge hold very special places in our hearts and CAN NOT WAIT to return. Thank you again for offering such an amazing trip.

Renee

Our trip was INCREDIBLE. The lodge was great, the food was amazing, and the staff were all so friendly. We loved our stays at the B&B, the main lodge, and the ARC.

Tia & Paula

It was incredible and a trip of a lifetime Paul! My sister Paula and I had an amazing time and loved everything — your facilities and staff are top notch and I want to come back with my husband and daughters!!

Estefani Mishel Maytahuari

Mishel got her degree in tourism from Nauta Institute in 2016. After working as a guide with other companies, Mishel came to study with Amazonia Expeditions as a training guide in 2023. Mishel was promoted to head guide in 2025.

Leyner Arian Ijuma

Leyner got his degree as a tour guide in 2010 at the Nauta Institute and came to work at Amazonia Expeditions in 2021. He was promoted to head guide in 2023. He has biological field work experience from supporting Nicholas Gardner of the University of Florida who he helped study the adaptations of birds in seasonally flooded igapo forests. Birding is one of Leyner's strongest skills.

Julio Pacaya

Julio finished his studies as a tour guide at the Nauta Institute in 2016 and came to work as a training guide with Amazonia Expeditions in 2021. He was promoted to head guide in 2023. Nature photography and birding are among Julio's strongest skills. Julio is fluent in English and French, as well as his native tongue of Spanish.

Claudio Huayllahua Sánchez

Claudio was born and grew up in El Chino Village on the Tahuayo River. He studied primary school in El Chino and continued his education in Iquitos, earning a technical degree from SENATI Institute. He started working for Amazonia Expeditions in 2014 as a field research assistant with several biologists and as an assistant guide. Claudio was promoted to head guide in 2017 and is our camping and jungle survival specialist.

Hersog Chavez Yuyarima

Hersog first got the idea of becoming a guide after watching the tourist boats going by his village every day. He was fascinated that tourists would come to see his home and he loved the way that the guides he saw did their work. He knew that someday he wanted to be just like them. Hersog studied at technical school for 3 years leaning the basics of guiding. After graduating, Hersog worked as a guide for several years working with Peruvian tourists, later coming to work for Amazonia in 2017. Hersog was promoted to head guide in 2019. He has worked as a field research assistant in the study of the elusive pygmy marmoset. Hersog is known for his sharp eyes and his unique stories about the jungle.

Lander Juan Peña Ramirez

Lander was born in the remote jungle community of Santa Victoria. His boyhood dream was to become to best jungle guide in the Amazon. Lander studied at a local institute for several years where he learned basic English and the foundations of the being a tour guide. Later he worked for several years at other jungle loges as a guide, honing his skills as a survival camping guide. Lander came to work for Amazonia Expeditions in 2017 and along with a strong interest in birding and fishing is also one of our lead camping and survival guides.

Aladino Jr. Hidalgo

Aladino was born and raised in El Diamante Village along the Blanco River and attended school in the community of “Valentin” on the Tahuayo River. During this period, Aladino worked with his father as a trailblazer, assisting primate researchers who came to study at a local field station. Afterwards, he moved to Lima where he worked for several years while studying guiding & English. Upon returning in 2019, he was hired by Amazonia as a field assistant and actively supported researchers studying giant river otters, pygmy marmosets, and various bird species. He then joined Amazonia Expeditions as a guide assistant and was later promoted to head guide in 2022.

Jhony Hidalgo

Jhony was born and raised in El Diamante Village along the Blanco River. He attended primary school in his home village and high school in the community of “Valentin” on the Tahuayo River. Jhony later pursued further studies in Iquitos, where he obtained a guide degree from the Milagro Fe & Alegria Institute. After graduating, he worked at the Amazon Rescue Center in Iquitos (CREA), guiding visitors to the center. In 2021 he joined Amazonia Expeditions as a guide assistant and was promoted to head guide in 2023.

Sila Hidalgo

Sila was born and raised in El Diamante Village along the Blanco River. She attended primary school in Diamante village and high school in the community of “El Chino” on the Tahuayo River. Her family moved to El Chino so Sila could attend high school, as it was the closest village offering secondary education. Later, Sila joined our Angels (AoA) scholarship program to further her education in Iquitos, where she earned a guide degree from the Milagro Fe & Alegria Institute. She completed her internship at Tahuayo Lodge. After graduating, Sila began her career with Amazonia Expeditions as a guide assistant and was promoted to head guide in 2022.

Welister Perez

Welister grew up in the small community of Padre Cocha just outside of Iquitos City. He lived there for most of his life, and later worked at several jungle lodges before starting at Amazonia Expeditions. Welister has proven himself as both a talented jungle man and team player with an eagle eye for spotting wildlife. After several months of training with Amazonia he was promoted to a head guiding position in 2017.

Javier Anibal Alván Arévalo

Javier has worked at the Amazonia Expeditions lodges for 10 years, starting as a young teenager as an assistant in building repair, then moving up to motorboat pilot, then camping assistant and assistant guide, and after passing his guide exams with high grades was promoted to head guide in 2014. Javier is also our Canopy Zipline specialist and has taken professional certification classes in Costa Rica. Javier is also a fishing specialist and is beloved by families with children.