Gallery
Tap for a closer view
About Expedition Galápagos!
At a glance...
Country: Ecuador
Group size: Minimum two
Duration: 10 days/9 nights
Activity: Walking, hiking, boating, snorkeling, sightseeing
Travel style: Guided
Difficulty grade: Easy to moderate
Comfort: 3*-4* hotels
Few destinations carry the same sense of wonder and bucket-list allure as the Galápagos Islands. This 10-day adventure — unique only to Hobnail Trekking Co. — takes you deep into one of the most unique ecosystems on Earth, where wildlife shows little fear of humans and volcanic landscapes tell the story of a world still in the making. From snorkeling with playful sea lions and gliding sea turtles to hiking the rim of a massive active volcano, every day brings an unforgettable experience.
Your journey spans the archipelago’s most iconic islands — Santa Cruz, Isabela, and San Cristóbal — with day trips to uninhabited islands for encounters with blue-footed boobies, land iguanas, and the rare Galápagos penguin. Snorkeling highlights include Los Túneles, a labyrinth of lava arches teeming with marine life, and Kicker Rock, famed for schools of hammerhead sharks. On land, you’ll walk among giant tortoises in their natural habitat and trek through surreal volcanic scenery shaped by centuries of eruptions.
This isn’t just a wildlife expedition — it’s also a cultural immersion. You’ll share a hands-on ceviche-making workshop with a local fishing family, relax at a craft brewery in the highlands, and enjoy the company of expert naturalist guides who bring the islands’ stories to life. Comfortable boutique hotels on each island provide a welcoming retreat after each day’s adventures.
Expedition Galapagos is designed to be active, immersive, and deeply memorable. With every step and every swim, you’ll understand why this remote archipelago has inspired explorers, scientists, and travelers for generations — and why it belongs on your personal bucket list. Like any of our adventures, expect only the highest level of service and care — from booking until you return home.
Put together a group of at least two and choose any 10-day block. Book it today!
Expedition Galápagos!
- Because the weather in Ecuador changes very little throughout the year, this itinerary is available year round! Choose any 10-day block with at least 60 days advanced notice.
- Book your trip by CLICKING HERE.
EXPEDITION GALAPAGOS! Details
- Highlights
- Included
- Not included
- Difficulty level
- Insurance
- About the itinerary
- Visa and passport
- Single supplements
- Transportation
- Galapagos weather
- Sustainability
- What we ask of you
- After booking
Walk Among Giant Tortoises
At El Chato Reserve on Santa Cruz, you’ll encounter the Galápagos’ most famous residents in their natural highland habitat. Watch these gentle giants lumber through the grass, wallow in mud pools, and learn about their astonishing lifespans and evolutionary history.
Snorkel Kicker Rock
Known locally as León Dormido, this towering rock formation is a world-class snorkeling destination. Glide through the narrow channel between its cliffs, where sea lions, turtles, rays, and schools of hammerhead sharks create a thrilling underwater spectacle.
Hike Sierra Negra Volcano
Journey into the highlands of Isabela for a trek along the rim of one of the largest volcanic calderas on Earth. The hike rewards you with sweeping views across lava flows, mangrove channels, and rugged volcanic landscapes still being shaped today.
Explore Los Túneles
Snorkel among surreal volcanic arches and tunnels at Los Túneles, where crystal-clear waters shelter sea turtles, reef sharks, eagle rays, and vibrant schools of fish. Above water, watch Blue-Footed Boobies nest among the lava formations.
Visit an Uninhabited Island
Experience the Galápagos in its most pristine form with a full-day yacht excursion to one of the central uninhabited islands, such as Bartolomé, North Seymour, or Santa Fe. Each destination offers unique wildlife encounters, from Land Iguanas to breathtaking volcanic vistas.
Swim With Penguins and Sharks
At Tintoreras Islet, snorkel in narrow lava channels where white-tip reef sharks rest in the shallows and the rare Galápagos Penguin darts through the water. Sea lions, turtles, and marine iguanas add to the extraordinary mix of wildlife.
Hands-On Cultural Immersion
On San Cristóbal, step into the home of a local fishing family for a hands-on ceviche-making workshop. Learn traditional techniques, taste the freshness of the islands, and enjoy an authentic connection with island culture.
Craft Brewery in the Highlands
After exploring the Santa Cruz highlands, relax at a family-owned brewery that blends island-grown ingredients with creative brewing methods. Sample craft beers (or non-alcoholic options) while learning about sustainable practices in the fragile Galápagos ecosystem.
Protected Beach Retreats
Balance adventure with relaxation at secluded, pristine beaches like Cerro Brujo, where white coral sand, turquoise waters, and shorebirds offer a tranquil break. Swim in calm shallows and soak in the natural beauty of the islands.
Expert Naturalist Guides
Every step of your journey is led by certified Galápagos National Park naturalists. With deep knowledge of the islands’ ecosystems and years of guiding experience, they ensure your encounters are safe, educational, and truly unforgettable.
- Hobnail Trekking Co. long-sleeve trekking shirt and ball cap
- Surprise gift during the trek
- Custom Hobnail mobile app
- Lots of freebies
- Opportunities to get to know your fellow trekkers include an invitation to a private Facebook or WhatsApp group for your trek, group training hikes if trekkers live in proximity to each other, and other local social gatherings
- Accommodation in 3* and 4* hotels
- All domestic flights! (You won’t find this with any other provider.)
- All meals on the trek as specified in the itinerary
- Water, various juices, coffee, celebratory indigenous beverages
- Local, English-speaking leader and guide(s)
- Private ground transportation throughout the trip
- Transport from and to airport
- All national park fees, museum entrance fees, taxes, and permits
- Snorkeling gear
- The company of new friends and the experience of a lifetime
- Travel insurance (See the Travel Insurance section on this page for details)
- International flights
- Meals not included on the itinerary
- Alcoholic beverages, non-scheduled drinks
- Tips for drivers, guide(s), etc.
- Spending money, including for souvenirs
- Personal trekking equipment (hiking boots, clothing, etc.)
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, room service, extra hotel nights, extra meals, etc.)
- All expenses associated with nonscheduled departure or transportation
We rate this trip as a difficulty level of 2 out of 5. No prior experience is required, and your guides will always brief you about safety and proper use of gear on every leg of the trip.
OK, here’s where we get serious. Hobnail requires that all trekkers purchase travel/medical insurance that covers them properly for all trekking activities.
There are a lot more details you need to know about travel insurance than we want to put in this limited space — including stuff about trip cancellations and what company we recommend — so when you’re ready, pop over to our Travel Insurance page.
Even though we have a detailed itinerary, changes can be made by your guides due to weather or safety reasons. Please also note that none of the wildlife sightings mentioned on the itinerary are guaranteed.
Make sure to check your visa and passport validity and requirements per country. It is important your passport is valid for at least 6 months before your travel. (Note: A visa is not necessary for U.S. citizens.)
Generally, this fee is not incurred because we match you with another person of the same gender in a twin room. However, if you prefer not to share and have your own room, there will be an associated fee.
Driving time can take longer than expected in Ecuador depending on weather, traffic, and general road conditions. We only use late-model, comfortable vehicles no matter the size of the group. While in the Galapagos, the speed boat from Santa Cruz to Isabela can be a bit challenging for those not accustomed to boat travel, so we highly recommend that you carry seasickness medicine with you during that part of the trip.
Although the islands are located on the equator, the Humboldt Current brings cold water to them, causing frequent drizzles during most of the year. The weather is periodically influenced by the El Niño events, which occur about every 3 to 7 years and are characterized by warm sea surface temperatures, a rise in sea level, greater wave action, and a depletion of nutrients in the water.
During the season known as the garúa (June to November), the temperature by the sea is 22 °C (72 °F), a steady and cold wind blows from south and southeast, frequent drizzles (garúas) last most of the day, and dense fog conceals the islands. During the warm season (December to May), the average sea and air temperature rises to 25 °C (77 °F), there is no wind at all, there are sporadic, though strong, rains and the sun shines.
Weather changes as altitude increases in the large islands. Temperature decreases gradually with altitude, while precipitation increases due to the condensation of moisture in clouds on the slopes. There is a large range in precipitation from one place to another, not only with altitude, but also depending on the location of the islands, and also with the seasons. The precipitation also depends on the geographical location. During March 1969, the precipitation over Charles Darwin Station, on the southern coast of Santa Cruz was 249.0 mm (9.80 in), while on Baltra Island, the precipitation during the same month was only 137.6 mm (5.42 in). This is because Baltra is located behind Santa Cruz with respect to the prevailing southerly winds, so most of the moisture gets precipitated in the Santa Cruz highlands.
There are significant changes in precipitation from one year to another, too. At Charles Darwin Station, the precipitation during March 1969 was 249.0 mm (9.80 in), but during March 1970, it was only 1.2 mm (0.047 in). On the larger islands, the pattern of generally wet highlands and drier lowlands impacts the flora. The vegetation in the highlands tends to be green and lush, with tropical woodland in places. The lowland areas tend to have arid and semi-arid vegetation, with many thorny shrubs and cacti, and almost bare volcanic rock elsewhere.
We do our best to not produce any trash; we believe that recycling is not enough so we try to avoid using any plastic or materials that pollute our environment. Every day we work towards being a zero-waste tour operator, and our staff is well trained to leave the least impact possible in our service areas. We also work closely with local indigenous communities in the different regions. By doing so, we are able to teach our guests about the rich Ecuador culture while helping the people preserve their traditions and lands. By working directly with local peoples, we are able to create a sustainable touristic income for the community.
We consider our treks to be adventures, not vacations. We’re not Hobnail Vacation Company, after all! Don’t get us wrong; we like vacations as much as the next person, but with our treks, you need to be physically and mentally ready. Here’s what we ask of you:
- You thoroughly read all the information we send you prior to departure.
- You get yourself an accountability partner and train properly. This doesn’t mean doing a few squats two weeks before departure.
- You familiarize yourself with your gear prior to leaving. Practice adjusting your backpack, filtering water if necessary, etc.
- If you purchase new boots, they are broken in well in advance of departure.
- When on trek, you FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS OF YOUR GUIDE. His or her only concern is helping you achieve your goal safely and in good health, but this won’t happen unless you follow their advice. This includes – but is not limited to – food recommendations, speed of pace, when to sleep and when not to, when to walk and when to rest, when to turn around due to illness, etc.
- When on trek, you treat your guide and the locals you encounter with the utmost respect. We are guests in their country and very grateful to be there.
All of these things may seem like common sense — and they are — but we feel that we must mention them. Hobnail’s goal is to provide you with the best experience possible, and you have an important role in achieving that goal.
A few days after registering for a trek (with at least a $500 deposit), we will give you a call (if you’re available) to say hello and answer any initial questions you may have. If you have a Facebook presence, we will also invite you to join a private group page just for your trek. This is a great way to interact with your fellow trekkers, and possibly your guide, before departure. You can post questions in the group anytime you’d like, talk about the cool gear you’re planning to take with you, organize group hikes if you live near each other, and generally just get to know those who will be sharing this incredible experience with you.
Within the first weeks after your trek is confirmed, you will receive a Welcome Box from us. It contains stuff that you can use during training as well as on the trek itself, and some other just fun things to get you (even more) excited about your trip.
You’ll also receive a login to our Hobnail app, which is full of great information including a day-by-day schedule, nearby points of interest, beautiful photography, and yet another way to contact us – through its messaging service. As your trip gets closer, we will load your flights and other more specific information into the app so you’ll feel even more secure in knowing where you’ll be staying and even how to get around the airports you’ll travel through.
The closer you get to your trek, the more you’ll hear from us — but of course, you can reach out any time you have a question.
What happens if my trek is not confirmed?
If the minimum number for the trek you booked is not reached before the 60-day booking deadline, you will be eligible for either a refund or to transfer your deposit to another trek. See details HERE.
Our Mobile App
When you book, we send you the login credentials to your own, customized app. By departure, your app will contain your flight info, passport, travel insurance docs, and COVID info, as well as your full itinerary, points of interest, and other amazing stuff.
DAILY ITINERARY
Day 1: Welcome to Ecuador and Quito
Upon your arrival at the airport in Quito, you will be greeted by our friendly staff who will transfer you to your hotel. Quito is the capital of Ecuador and is known for its rich history and stunning architecture. The city is located in the Andes Mountains, providing a beautiful backdrop for your stay. At around 6pm, you will attend a briefing where you will receive extra important information about your tour and meet your fellow travelers (if you haven’t already).
Hotel: Swissotel or similar (Elevation: 9,000 feet)
Day 2: Travel to the Galapagos and hike to the giant tortoises
After a great breakfast at the hotel, our staff will transfer you from Quito to the airport and help you with the process of checking in for the flight to the Galapagos. Once landed in the islands, we will cross the Itabaca Channel by boat and then drive to the Twin Craters for a short walk to learn about these volcanic formations.
After a freshly made lunch at the El Chato Reserve, we will go on a short hike to look for the famous Giant Tortoises of the Galapagos! These ancient reptiles, which can live over a century, embody the unique biodiversity of the Galapagos archipelago. Found nowhere else on Earth, they are a testament to the islands’ isolated and pristine environment. Visitors to the Galapagos have the rare opportunity to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat, witnessing firsthand their slow, deliberate movements and remarkable size. The Giant Tortoises play a crucial role in their ecosystem, shaping the landscape as they graze on vegetation. Experiencing the Galapagos Islands means encountering one of nature’s most extraordinary creatures and gaining a deeper appreciation for the importance of conservation and biodiversity.
We’ll also explore a lava tunnel as your guide teaches you about the flora and fauna of this ecosystem. A lava tunnel on the Galapagos Islands is a natural underground passage formed by flowing lava during volcanic eruptions. As lava erupts and flows, the outer layers cool and solidify while the inner molten material continues to flow, eventually draining away and leaving behind a hollow tube. These tunnels are fascinating geological formations, showcasing the islands’ volcanic origins. We will check out a tunnel to witness stunning rock formations and unique ecosystems, often teeming with various species that thrive in this unusual environment.
Next, we go by car to the town of Puerto Ayora, stopping along the way at the Santa Cruz Brewery to taste the different types of beer made there. Finally, we will arrive at the hotel in the late afternoon.
Flight times: 2 hours from Quito to Baltra.
Transfer from Baltra to the Giant Tortoises reserve: 15 minutes by bus, 15 minutes by ferry, 30 minutes by car
Hiking distance: less than 1 mile. (1 hour because of explanations and photos)
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch
Hotel: Hotel La Isla or similar
Day 3: Uninhabited Island Excursion
Today you’ll set out on a yacht excursion to one of the Galápagos’ central uninhabited islands: Bartolomé, North Seymour, or Santa Fe. The destination is determined by the park’s schedule, ensuring that your visit contributes to sustainable tourism practices.
Each island offers something special. On Bartolomé, hike to the viewpoint above Pinnacle Rock for sweeping volcanic vistas. On North Seymour, observe colonies of Blue-Footed Boobies and Magnificent Frigatebirds. Or on Santa Fe, watch as golden Land Iguanas bask among prickly-pear cactus forests.
After the hike, slip into the water for a snorkeling session where sea lions, marine iguanas, and reef fish abound. Lunch is served aboard the yacht before you cruise back to Santa Cruz in the late afternoon, returning with memories of pristine landscapes few ever experience.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch
Day 4: Travel to Isabela, boat tour at Tintoreras
After breakfast, we will begin the day with a 2-hour speed boat cruise to Isabela Island, after which, the rest of the morning is yours to explore or just relax on the beach.
In the afternoon, you will have a boat tour to visit Tintoreras, where you will be able to see schools of rays and sharks as well as the world’s largest colonies of marine iguanas. These remarkable reptiles are the only iguanas that have adapted to a marine environment, capable of swimming and foraging in the ocean. They primarily feed on algae, which they scrape off rocks underwater. Marine iguanas have evolved flattened tails for swimming and strong limbs for clinging to rocks in strong currents. Their distinctive appearance, with spiky crests and varying colors, combined with their extraordinary adaptation to the harsh marine environment, make them a fascinating and iconic species of the Galapagos archipelago.
Later, you will have some time to go snorkeling in the same area to look for marine life including colorful fish, friendly sharks, rays, iguanas, penguins, and more.
After returning to the hotel in the late afternoon, enjoy a visit to the local pubs for a sunset drink.
Cruise time by boat from Santa Cruz to Isabela: 2 hours
Hiking in the afternoon in Tintoreras: Less than 1 mile (around an hour with explanations and photos)
Meal included: Breakfast
Hotel: Cormorant or similar
Day 5: Sierra Negra Volcano Trek
Rise early for one of the most impressive hikes in the Galápagos — the ascent of Sierra Negra Volcano. This shield volcano boasts one of the largest craters in the world, nearly six miles across, and the 2018 eruption has left striking new lava fields to explore.
The hike, about 10 miles round trip, takes you along the caldera’s rim with panoramic views stretching across Isabela. On clear days, you can even see the lava plains of Elizabeth Bay and other volcanic peaks. Along the trail, keep watch for the Vermilion Flycatcher, Galápagos Hawk, and other native birdlife.
After returning to Puerto Villamil, the afternoon is yours to relax. Head to Concha Perla, a sheltered cove perfect for a swim, or simply enjoy the golden sunset on the beach with the silhouettes of marine iguanas basking nearby.
*Note: If you prefer not to undertake this trek, there are other options. For example, you can spend a free day exploring Puerto Villamil on your own — via foot or e-bike — or snorkel from the beach at an excellent location that is walking distance from your hotel.
Hiking: 10 miles round trip
Meals included: Breakfast and boxed lunch
Hotel: Cormorant or similar
Day 6: Los Túneles & El Finado Snorkeling
Today’s marine adventure takes you to Los Túneles, one of the most extraordinary snorkeling sites on Earth. Lava once flowed into the ocean here, cooled, and collapsed into a series of arches, tunnels, and lagoons — now an aquatic sanctuary bursting with life.
Above the water, Blue-Footed Boobies nest among the lava formations. Beneath, crystal-clear waters reveal turtles, rays, reef sharks, and a kaleidoscope of tropical fish weaving through the arches. The calm, shallow pools make this an accessible yet surreal snorkeling experience.
After lunch on board, continue to El Finado, a secluded cove perfect for spotting stingrays, manta rays, octopuses, and schools of colorful fish. Return to Isabela for a special evening — a wine-tasting social hour followed by a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, celebrating the island’s beauty and hospitality.
Boat ride duration: 1 hour each way.
Hiking: Less than .5 miles.
Snorkeling time: Twice at 1 hour each depending on the water level and conditions.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Hotel: Cormorant or similar
Day 7: Isabela to San Cristóbal & Ceviche Workshop
Enjoy a relaxed morning on Isabela. Stroll along the white-sand beach or rent a bike to visit the Wall of Tears, a haunting historical site surrounded by wildlife such as tortoises and marine iguanas.
In the afternoon, board a short “hopper plane” flight to San Cristóbal, the oldest island in the archipelago. This eastern outpost offers a different perspective, with rugged coastlines and volcanic highlands shaped by millennia of erosion.
Later, connect with local culture during a ceviche-making workshop hosted by a fishing family. Learn how fresh-caught seafood is prepared in the Galápagos tradition, enjoy the fruits of your labor, and share stories with your hosts — a meaningful reminder that the islands are home to vibrant communities as well as wildlife.
Flight time: 45 minutes
Transfer from the airport to the hotel: 10 minutes by car
Meals included: Breakfast, dinner
Hotel: Golden Bay or similar
Day 8: Cruise to Kicker Rock, snorkel, boat tour
Today you’ll journey to Kicker Rock, perhaps the Galápagos’ most iconic snorkeling site. These sheer volcanic cliffs rise over 500 feet from the sea, split by a narrow channel that funnels currents and attracts a stunning density of marine life.
Slip into the water for two guided snorkeling sessions. Expect playful sea lions, graceful turtles, massive schools of fish, and — for the lucky — sightings of hammerhead and Galápagos sharks. Rays and colorful reef species add to the spectacle.
Between snorkeling sessions, step ashore at a pristine white-sand beach such as Cerro Brujo, where you can relax, birdwatch, and swim in tranquil waters. A fresh lunch on board completes the day before your return to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.
Boat ride duration: 1 hour each way.
Snorkeling time: Twice of 1 hour each depending on the water level and conditions.
Meals included: Breakfast and lunch
Hotel: Golden Bay or similar
Day 9: Return to Quito
After a final breakfast overlooking San Cristóbal’s harbor, transfer to the airport for your flight back to Quito. Your mainland representative will greet you upon arrival and provide a private transfer to your city hotel.
The remainder of the day is free to rest or enjoy a final stroll through Ecuador’s lively capital. It’s the perfect chance to pick up souvenirs, savor a last meal of Andean cuisine, or simply reflect on the wonders of the Galápagos.
Flight time: 2 hours
Meals included: Breakfast
Hotel: Swissotel or similar
Day 10: Departure
We hate to see you go! After breakfast, we will transfer you to the airport for your flight home. We hope you’ll take with you many happy memories of the breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, rich history, and vibrant flora and fauna that you encountered during this amazing stay in Ecuador.
Meals included: Breakfast
Transfer to airport: 1 hour
GENERAL INFORMATION
How is Ecuador different from its neighbors?
Ecuador stands out from its neighboring countries with its extraordinary geographic diversity and rich cultural tapestry. While countries like Peru and Colombia are renowned for their historical sites and vibrant cultures, Ecuador offers a unique blend of coastal, Andean, and Amazonian environments all within a compact area, making it one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. This diversity is mirrored in its culture, which combines indigenous traditions with Spanish colonial influences, creating a distinct and vibrant heritage. Additionally, Ecuador is home to the Galápagos Islands, a natural wonder that offers unparalleled wildlife experiences, setting it apart from its regional counterparts.
About Ecuador's Galapagos Islands
The Galápagos Islands are a global treasure trove of biodiversity, renowned for their unique and diverse wildlife. Located off the Pacific coast of Ecuador, these volcanic islands are home to species found nowhere else on Earth, such as the iconic Galápagos tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies. The islands’ isolation and varied ecosystems, ranging from arid deserts to lush highlands, have fostered an extraordinary range of plant and animal life. This rich biodiversity was famously studied by Charles Darwin, contributing to his theory of evolution by natural selection. Today, the Galápagos Islands remain a living laboratory of evolutionary biology, attracting scientists and nature enthusiasts from around the world.
Ecuador's adoption of u.S. currency
In 2000, Ecuador made a significant economic shift by adopting the U.S. dollar as its official currency, a move known as dollarization. This decision was made in response to a severe financial crisis marked by hyperinflation and the collapse of the national currency, the sucre. By adopting the U.S. dollar, Ecuador aimed to stabilize its economy, curb inflation, and restore investor confidence. While dollarization brought about greater monetary stability and reduced inflation rates, it also meant that Ecuador lost control over its monetary policy, relying instead on the fiscal and economic decisions of the United States. Despite these challenges, dollarization has been largely credited with helping to stabilize Ecuador’s economy in the years following its adoption. From a travel perspective, it provides even more convenience and reason for Americans to visit this incredibly beautiful and welcoming country.
Expedition Galápagos!
- Because the weather in Ecuador changes very little throughout the year, this itinerary is available year round! Choose any 10-day block with at least 60 days advanced notice.
- Book your trip by CLICKING HERE.
