4.9

Island Hopping Adventure in the Galapagos

  • Ecuador
  • 9 nights

Hike, bike, and snorkel this unique archipelago and encounter its special wildlife on an adventure immersed in the natural world

What's Included?

  • Activities & Certified GuidesAll itinerary activities with expert, local, English-speaking guides
  • Guesthouse9 nights in locally owned boutique hotels
  • Meals9 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 9 dinners
  • Internal flights & transfersFlights between Quito and the Galapagos; airport transfers and everything in between
  • GearAll your biking and snorkeling gear
  • Small Like-minded GroupsSolo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 14 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people

From…excluding flights

Highlights

  • Hike to the otherworldly Sierra Negra Volcano - one of the largest, most active volcanic craters in the world

  • Bike to pristine beaches dotted with sea lions, blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, and flamingos

  • Come face to face with the Galapagos’ most famous resident, the giant tortoise, and snorkel with reef sharks and sea turtles

  • Want to extend your travels? Check out our Ultimate Galapagos and Amazon (opens in new tab)

Itinerary

  1. Day 1

    Welcome to Ecuador!

    Guesthouse
    Twin share
    Dinner included
    Show Day 1 detail

    After landing at the airport in Quito your host will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in the Tababela area. The rest of the day you are free to enjoy the gardens at the hotel and shake off any jet lag. There will be a group meet up at 7:00 PM where you can get to know your guides and fellow adventurers.

  2. Day 2

    Explore Quito and visit the equator

    Guesthouse
    Twin share
    Breakfast and dinner included
    Show Day 2 detail

    Soak up Quito's Old Town with its plazas, churches, and classic art before grabbing some traditional Andean food for lunch. Head up to the best lookout of the city at Panecillo Hill before making your way over to the San Antonio area of Quito. Here you will find La Mitad del Mundo - The Middle of the Earth. This is where Ecuador's namesake, the equator, runs through the country, and you can stand with a foot in each hemisphere.

    Day 3

    First glimpse of the Galápagos Islands

    Hiking
    1-1.5hrs · 1mi
    Guesthouse
    Twin share
    All meals included
    Show Day 3 detail

    In Quito, hop on a plane bound for Baltra Island in the Galapagos. The flight is spectacular, crossing the open expanse of the Pacific Ocean for a couple of hours before the first islands come into view. Touch down on Baltra and take a short ferry ride over to Santa Cruz Island, where you can dive straight into some of the island's highlights. Check out Los Gemelos (The Twins) – two giant volcanic sinkholes; El Chato Giant Tortoise Reserve, where you can observe these magical creatures in their natural habitat; and the Charles Darwin Research Station.

  4. Day 4

    Visit a Coffee Farm and bike to Garrapatero Beach

    Cycling
    3hrs · 6mi
    Guesthouse
    Twin share
    All meals included
    Show Day 4 detail

    Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before jumping in the van and climbing into the Santa Cruz Highlands to visit an organic coffee plantation and sip a fresh cup of Joe. After lunch, drive up to the Cerro Mesa Nature Reserve where you can jump on a mountain bike and pedal (approximately 6 miles) over to Garrapatero Beach – an amazing beach teeming with wildlife. Have some downtime on the beach, enjoy a swim, then head back to Puerto Ayora either by bike (14 miles) or on the bus for dinner and drinks.

    Day 5

    Hike to Tortuga Bay then Boat to Isabela Island

    Hiking
    2hr · 6mi · 197ft up · 197ft down
    Guesthouse
    Twin share
    All meals included
    Show Day 5 detail

    Head out to one of the largest white sand beaches in the Galapagos, Tortuga Bay. This beautiful beach is only accessible by an hour-long hike and you may spot lava lizards, native birds, and huge marine iguanas. You can take a quick dip, snorkel, or kayak here, or you can just relax on the beach and keep the local marine life company. Hop on a speedboat to Isabela Island and check into your boutique hotel in the picturesque town of Puerto Villamil. The rest of the afternoon is free to stroll around the town and find a spot to enjoy the sunset at one of the best white sand beaches in the Galapagos.

  6. Day 6

    Hike Sierra Negra Volcano

    Hiking
    5hrs · 10mi · 1312ft up · 1312ft down
    Guesthouse
    Twin share
    All meals included
    Show Day 6 detail

    Tackle a spectacular hike today at Sierra Negra Volcano. After a couple of hours, you'll reach a spot where you can take in the views from the rim of one of the largest and most active volcanic craters in the world. The hike continues over to Lava Nueva, a neighboring volcanic landscape. The hike is easy-going as you hike at a gradual pace while soaking up the spectacular surroundings. Back in Puerto Villamil by late afternoon, you can unwind on the beach with another swim in the Pacific Ocean.

    Day 7

    Bike to 'The Wall of Tears' and snorkel at Concha de Perla

    Cycling
    3hrs · 11mi · 427ft up · 427ft down
    Snorkelling
    1hr
    Guesthouse
    Twin share
    All meals included
    Show Day 7 detail

    Swap hiking boots for a mountain bike today for a ride over to Muro de las Lágrimas (the Wall of Tears) – an infamous 33-foot high wall of volcanic rock that was formerly part of a penal colony. Since the prison closed down, wildlife has taken over and it now makes a truly unique place to see giant tortoises and flamingos. Continue on two wheels to the Arnaldo Tupiza Breeding Center where you can say hello to five different species of endemic giant tortoise. In the afternoon you’ll snorkel at Concha de Perla – eyes peeled for reef sharks, marine iguanas, sea lions, turtles and even penguins. Wind down with a traditional Isabela Island restaurant dinner and maybe sample the Galapagan nightlife.

    Day 8

    Swim with Galapagos marine wildlife

    Snorkelling
    1hr
    Guesthouse
    Twin share
    All meals included
    Show Day 8 detail

    Check off more islands today as you make your way to Islote las Tintoreras, a chain of small islands named after the white-tipped reef sharks who love to hang out here. Enjoy a boat trip around the bay to look for the famous or unique residents, such as Galapagos penguins, blue-footed boobies, sea turtles and sea lions, then visit The Cliff – a natural tunnel where sharks can often be seen resting. Jump in the water for another snorkeling adventure with the chance to see manta rays, marine iguanas, and of course the famous reef sharks of this part of the Galapagos. Bid farewell to Isabela Island later, as you take a speedboat back to Santa Cruz Island for your final evening in the Galapagos.

  9. Day 9

    Goodbye Galapagos

    Guesthouse
    Twin share
    Breakfast and dinner included
    Show Day 9 detail

    Wave goodbye to the islands as you hop on a plane back to Quito. The afternoon and evening are free to explore more at your own pace or enjoy some well-earned downtime in the hotel gardens. You'll share a final evening together with your group, sharing memories, adventure stories and probably the odd photo of a giant tortoise from your time in the Galapagos.

  10. Day 10

    Transfer to Quito Airport for your next flight

    Breakfast included
    Show Day 10 detail

    Your adventure comes to an end today as your host takes you back to the airport in Quito in time for your flight home.

Getting There

Nearest airport
Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO)
Pick up
Mariscal Sucre International Airport, Quito
Anytime on day 1
Drop off
Mariscal Sucre International Airport, Quito
Anytime on day 10

Detailed Logistics

Transfers

Your host will meet you at Mariscal Sucre International Airport in Quito and transfer you to your hotel a short drive away. On the last day of the trip, your host will return you to the airport in time for your onward flight.

Airport transfers are included if you arrive on Day 1 and depart on Day 10. If you wish to arrive before the trip start date or stay longer at the end, your host can arrange private airport transfers and pre/post-trip accommodation. See Optional Extras for prices.

Travel options

There are regular flights to Mariscal Sucre International Airport in Quito from major airports across the UK, Europe, North America and Australasia.

What is and isn't Included?

What's included

  • Explore Quito and see the equator at Mitad del Mundo
  • Explore Baltra Island - visiting Los Gemelos ('the Twins'), El Chato Giant Tortoise Reserve, the Charles Darwin Research Station
  • Visit an organic coffee plantation
  • Short hike in the Cerro Mesa Nature Reserve
  • Guided bike ride to Garrapatero Beach
  • Guided hike to Tortuga Bay
  • Guided hike up the Sierra Negra volcano
  • Guided bike ride to the 'Wall of Tears' and Arnaldo Tupiza Tortoise Breeding Center
  • Snorkeling at Concha de Perla
  • Boat ride and snorkeling around Islote las Tintoreras

  • Expert, local, English-speaking guides
  • Naturalist guides for your time in the Galapagos Islands

  • 9 nights in family run hotels

  • 9 tasty breakfasts
  • 6 fresh lunches
  • 9 traditional dinners

  • Flights between Quito and Baltra in the Galápagos

  • Arrival transfer from Quito Airport at any time on Day 1
  • Departure transfer to Quito Airport at any time on Day 10
  • All transfers during the trip, including boat journeys between the islands

  • All biking gear
  • All snorkeling gear

Where You'll Stay

Looking for a private room? See Optional Extras for details and pricing.

  • The Quinta La Constanza hotel in the Galapagos Islands.

    Quito

    Stay

    Quito

    Before and after your time in the Galapagos, you'll usually stay at the charming Quinta La Constanza, an independent country house-style hotel in Quito, a short drive from the airport. The location is convenient for the short trips to and from the airport, but also has quiet and peaceful surroundings with beautiful gardens to relax in during your downtime here. For some departure dates, the local host may reserve an alternative nearby hotel of the same standard.

  • The Deja Vu Hotel in the Eden neighbourhood of Eden, Puerto Avora, Galapagos Islands.

    Santa Cruz Island

    Stay

    Santa Cruz Island

    During your time on Santa Cruz Island, you'll stay in a lovely boutique hotel called Deja Vu, located in the Eden neighborhood just outside Puerto Ayora. Deja Vu has cool, comfortable rooms and an outdoor pool to enjoy during any downtime after your adventures around the island, and it also includes epic American-style breakfasts to fuel you up each day.

What You'll Eat

In Quito, there will be an array of traditional Ecuadorian food to sample, including street snacks as you roam around the old town. Traditional dishes tend to be meat-heavy, however, seafood ceviche is popular and there are plenty of vegetarian optio…

Food and Dietary info

In Quito, there will be an array of traditional Ecuadorian food to sample, including street snacks as you roam around the old town. Traditional dishes tend to be meat-heavy, however, seafood ceviche is popular and there are plenty of vegetarian options using potato, plantain and local cheeses.

In the Galapagos Islands, expect plenty of seafood options. Your host has a keen eye on visiting the restaurants with the most sustainable approach to sourcing their seafood. Ceviche is perhaps the Galapagos's most famous dish, however, there are often traditional Ecuadorian highland dishes with meat, potatoes and grains, along with coastal ingredients like yucca. A local breakfast in the Galapagos Islands typically involves fried dumplings of green plantains (bolones) and fresh fruit, however, there are American-style breakfasts at the hotel on Santa Cruz Island as well.

Vegans, vegetarians, gluten-free, and any food allergies can be catered for. Please let your host know of your requirements in advance.

Optional Extras

Pre/Post Trip Accommodation

Double/Twin room
…
Single room
…

Upgrades

Optional Private Room Upgrade
…

For solo travellers looking for their own space, an optional private room can be booked for an extra charge, see Optional Extras for the price. Please request this at the time of booking (this is subject to availability).

Transfers

Quito Airport - Accommodation (each way)
…

To request any extras, message your host via your Much Better Adventures account once you have booked your trip.

All extras must be paid before your trip starts.

Trip level explained

Level 2

Easy-Moderate

Anyone with a basic level of fitness can enjoy this trip. All you'll need is to be able to handle a few hours of activity every day, mixed between snorkeling, kayaking, hiking and biking. The activities aren't strenuous, the aim on this trip is to breathe in and soak up the natural wonders of the Galapagos Islands while immersed in your surroundings.

High altitude (over 8,200 ft): factors to consider

This trip visits locations at or above 8,200ft, where some people may experience symptoms of Altitude Sickness (opens in new tab), also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).

Previous experience at altitude doesn’t guarantee the same response again – your body can react differently on each trip. However, having been at altitude before is still valuable: it gives you a better understanding of how your body might respond, what symptoms to look out for, and how to manage your pace and energy levels.

Your guide is trained to manage the risk of altitude sickness by controlling the rate of ascent, monitoring group well-being, and responding appropriately if anyone feels unwell.

Before booking, we recommend considering your personal health, particularly if you have any pre-existing conditions, and consulting a medical professional if you’re unsure. Arriving early to allow your body to acclimatize can also make a big difference.

Your travel insurance must cover the maximum altitude reached on this trip and include emergency evacuation.

Wildlife encounters: factors to consider

This trip takes place in environments where wild animals are present in their natural habitat, where protections and controls on their movement may be limited or non-existent. Some species may be dangerous, venomous, or unpredictable. Sightings are a privilege, but safety is key. Always follow your guide’s instructions and any posted signage.

We recommend considering your comfort around wildlife and discussing any concerns with your host before travel, particularly if you have allergies, phobias, or related health conditions.

Hot climate: factors to consider

This trip operates in areas where daytime temperatures can reach extreme levels, with limited shade and, at times, high humidity adding to the challenge. These conditions can affect physical performance and increase the risk of dehydration or heat-related illness. Your guide will adjust the pace and monitor the group closely, but staying well hydrated, wearing suitable clothing, and using sun protection is essential.

Before traveling, consider your ability to remain active in high temperatures and consult a medical professional if you have any concerns, especially if you have cardiovascular or heat-sensitive conditions. Arriving a day or two before the trip may help you adjust gradually to the heat.

Highly Remote Environments: Factors to Consider

This trip travels through very remote areas where access to medical facilities and emergency services may be limited and evacuation may take a significant amount of time. In some locations, medical facilities may provide only basic treatment, and further travel may be required to reach a hospital capable of providing more advanced care.

If someone becomes unwell or injured, evacuation may involve multiple stages and different forms of transportation before reaching appropriate medical facilities. Mobile phone coverage may be unreliable for significant portions of this trip and communication may rely on satellite devices carried by your guides.

Your guides are trained and experienced in operating in remote environments and will manage the group carefully throughout the journey. However, due to the remoteness of these locations, access to external support may be limited and delays to medical care should be expected.

Before booking, consider your personal health and comfort traveling in locations where medical care and evacuation options may be limited or delayed. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions or concerns, we strongly recommend seeking advice from a medical professional and discussing them with your host before traveling. If you have a medical condition that may require rapid access to specialist care, regular monitoring, or emergency treatment, this type of remote travel may not be suitable without careful planning and medical advice.

Your travel insurance must cover the activities included in the trip and emergency medical evacuation.

Ratings & Reviews

4.9137 reviews
  • 3 stars (0)
  • 2 stars (0)
  • 1 star (0)

Category rating

Food
5.0
Guides & crew
5.0
Accommodation
5.0
Itinerary
5.0

Latest Reviews

  • Cathy W.

    This was my first trip with a group, so I was a bit apprehensive, but it was a really lovely vacation and I am very glad I chose to visit the Galapagos with this group. I did not appreciate exactly how many modes of transport and how much logistics goes into travelling to, from, and around the islands. Navigating all of this with my rudimentary Spanish would have been a lot of effort, and instead our guides managed it all seamlessly and we could relax and just enjoy the experiences. The guides took us to some places that we would not have picked ourselves, but were interesting and enriching, allowing us to meet some locals and learn about their lives and culture. The people in our group were terrific, with a wide span of ages but all with equally positive attitudes and open friendliness. The guides, Wilson and Edwin on the mainland and Wilson and Erica on the islands, were all terrific. Wilson in particular was in charge of all the logistics and was an incredibly thoughtful and detail-oriented planner. There was always time to go take a shower or have a bit of a break right when you felt you needed one. We always knew what we needed and what was going to happen next. He took care of people if they got a stomach bug or felt under the weather. Thanks for a great trip, Wilson!

  • Cindy F.

    This was the best organized trip I've ever been on! Wilson had everything planned out perfectly- a good balance of activities like hiking, biking, and snorkeling, with visits to conservation areas and breeding sites, with just enough down time to not feel rushed between activities and meals. All the transfers went smoothly, too. The local knowledge of where was safe to have water, ice and salads was a big bonus for exploring on our own. All in all, it was an effortless adventure- we didn't have to think or plan anything, just checked our What's App messages for a run down of the next day's activities with times and what we would need to bring. Best guide ever!

  • Josh R.

    We had an amazing time on this once in a lifetime trip to the Galapagos. The trip was very thoughtfully planned and well organized by the amazing Wilson who is the best guide you could ask for. He has endless positive vibes and was extremely organized and responsive the entire trip. You could tell that he loved the Galapagos and wanted everyone on the trip to enjoy it as much as he does. And even though there are many modes of transport needed to get to this out of the way place, especially on Isabela Island, Wilson always had it under control and it was seamless. We got to see almost all the spectacular wildlife in the Galapagos you could imagine: giant tortoises, sea turtles, marine iguanas, flamingos, penguins, sharks, sea lions, blue footed boobies! and so much more!!! The food was amazing (try the ceviche as much as possible). You will not regret going on this amazing adventure!

  • David M.

    We loved the Galápagos and our guide Wilson really enhanced the experience.

  • June T.

    I had high expectations of the wildlife in the Galapagos . . . . but was blown away by the reality. It is the most amazing, unique place to have the privilege to visit ❤️ The food was incredible, added bonus 😁

  • Bill C.

    This trip was amazing! I got to see a lot of wildlife, eat a lot of great food, and got my fill of hiking, biking, and snorkeling the entire trip — there was never a dull moment. Our guides were great, and everybody in our group got along during the entire trip. I will highly recommend this trip to all of my friends.

  • Thomas E.

    I’ve just come back from this tour and would 100% recommend booking it! The days are mostly filled with activities to get the most from Quito and the islands you visit, but are well paced so I never felt rushed or tired the next day. It felt so special listening to the guides Wilson and Belen talk about Ecuador, the Galápagos Islands and all the wildlife with such pride and passion. I experienced and learnt so much from this trip, which I’ll be forever grateful for. The food is also amazing! I would recommend bringing a good pair of ear plugs as some of the hotels can be loud at night, but I didn’t have an issue as I had a pair on me :) Truly a trip of a lifetime. Thank you so much 💚

  • Hannah R.

    This is one of the best trips I’ve ever taken. The time in Ecuador is packed but made me want to go back! The Galapagos are otherworldly. The wildlife, the ocean, the community - everything is so beautiful. The guides in both Ecuador and the Galapagos are top notch. Everything was planned really well, and the guides were super knowledgable and personable. I felt super well taken care of and satisfied. Ecuador and the Galapagos were very safe and everyone was super welcoming. Oh and the food was spectacular.

  • Lucy C.

    Everything from start to finish was taken care of by the very caring and professional MBA team. Wilson was so helpful with all my pre-trip questions and was a friendly face when I arrived in Quito. Belén was our host and guide while we were on the Islands, her care, energy, enthusiasm and passion for the country was so infectious, she was a brilliant host and guide for our group. Swimming with the turtles, the friendliness of the local people, and the amazing food, will be long lasting in my memory. I would highly recommend this trip to anyone who likes wildlife and is open for an adventure.

  • Claire Z.

    I honestly cannot recommend this Much Better Adventures Galápagos trip highly enough. It was genuinely one of the most magical travel experiences I’ve ever had and I already wish I could do it all over again. The logistics throughout were seamless and the whole trip was incredibly well organised, which allowed us to just enjoy the experience fully without stress. We saw SO much because the itinerary is very packed, but in a good way as there was lots of adventure during the day followed by early nights, which honestly suited the trip perfectly. A huge shoutout to Wilson and Edwin, who were both absolutely amazing throughout, and especially to Belen, who was the most wonderful guide. She was knowledgeable, calm, organised, funny and so clearly passionate about the islands and wildlife. She completely made the trip what it was. The food was also consistently amazing, which genuinely surprised me given the logistics of island hopping. A couple of practical notes for future travellers: - the speedboat from Santa Cruz to Isabela is very bumpy, so definitely come prepared if you are prone to seasickness. - the Quito accommodation is more functional/serviceable than luxurious and can be a bit loud, so I’d recommend earplugs and an eyemask. However, it’s clearly chosen for practical reasons including proximity to the airport and safety/logistics if there is any unrest in the city. There was actually a curfew in Quito while we were there and we genuinely had no idea until we were told afterwards and we never once felt unsafe. Please don’t let that put you off travelling there. Overall: an unforgettable experience. The wildlife, scenery and adventure were incredible, but it was the people and organisation that elevated it into something truly special.

Customer Photos

4.9137 reviews
  • 5 stars (130)
  • 4 stars (7)
  • 3 stars (0)
  • 2 stars (0)
  • 1 star (0)
Showing all 137 reviews

  • Impressively well-organized!

    Cathy W. June 2026
    This was my first trip with a group, so I was a bit apprehensive, but it was a really lovely vacation and I am very glad I chose to visit the Galapagos with this group. I did not appreciate exactly how many modes of transport and how much logistics goes into travelling to, from, and around the islands. Navigating all of this with my rudimentary Spanish would have been a lot of effort, and instead our guides managed it all seamlessly and we could relax and just enjoy the experiences. The guides took us to some places that we would not have picked ourselves, but were interesting and enriching, allowing us to meet some locals and learn about their lives and culture. The people in our group were terrific, with a wide span of ages but all with equally positive attitudes and open friendliness. The guides, Wilson and Edwin on the mainland and Wilson and Erica on the islands, were all terrific. Wilson in particular was in charge of all the logistics and was an incredibly thoughtful and detail-oriented planner. There was always time to go take a shower or have a bit of a break right when you felt you needed one. We always knew what we needed and what was going to happen next. He took care of people if they got a stomach bug or felt under the weather. Thanks for a great trip, Wilson!

  • An effortless active adventure!

    Cindy F. June 2026
    This was the best organized trip I've ever been on! Wilson had everything planned out perfectly- a good balance of activities like hiking, biking, and snorkeling, with visits to conservation areas and breeding sites, with just enough down time to not feel rushed between activities and meals. All the transfers went smoothly, too. The local knowledge of where was safe to have water, ice and salads was a big bonus for exploring on our own. All in all, it was an effortless adventure- we didn't have to think or plan anything, just checked our What's App messages for a run down of the next day's activities with times and what we would need to bring. Best guide ever!

  • Trip of a lifetime

    Josh R. June 2026
    We had an amazing time on this once in a lifetime trip to the Galapagos. The trip was very thoughtfully planned and well organized by the amazing Wilson who is the best guide you could ask for. He has endless positive vibes and was extremely organized and responsive the entire trip. You could tell that he loved the Galapagos and wanted everyone on the trip to enjoy it as much as he does. And even though there are many modes of transport needed to get to this out of the way place, especially on Isabela Island, Wilson always had it under control and it was seamless. We got to see almost all the spectacular wildlife in the Galapagos you could imagine: giant tortoises, sea turtles, marine iguanas, flamingos, penguins, sharks, sea lions, blue footed boobies! and so much more!!! The food was amazing (try the ceviche as much as possible). You will not regret going on this amazing adventure!

  • So fun!

    David M. June 2026
    We loved the Galápagos and our guide Wilson really enhanced the experience.

  • Galapagos

    June T. June 2026
    I had high expectations of the wildlife in the Galapagos . . . . but was blown away by the reality. It is the most amazing, unique place to have the privilege to visit ❤️ The food was incredible, added bonus 😁

  • Fabulous trip!

    Bill C. June 2026
    This trip was amazing! I got to see a lot of wildlife, eat a lot of great food, and got my fill of hiking, biking, and snorkeling the entire trip — there was never a dull moment. Our guides were great, and everybody in our group got along during the entire trip. I will highly recommend this trip to all of my friends.

  • Galapagos Island Hopping Adventure

    Thomas E. May 2026
    I’ve just come back from this tour and would 100% recommend booking it! The days are mostly filled with activities to get the most from Quito and the islands you visit, but are well paced so I never felt rushed or tired the next day. It felt so special listening to the guides Wilson and Belen talk about Ecuador, the Galápagos Islands and all the wildlife with such pride and passion. I experienced and learnt so much from this trip, which I’ll be forever grateful for. The food is also amazing! I would recommend bringing a good pair of ear plugs as some of the hotels can be loud at night, but I didn’t have an issue as I had a pair on me :) Truly a trip of a lifetime. Thank you so much 💚

  • Once in a lifetime trip

    Hannah R. May 2026
    This is one of the best trips I’ve ever taken. The time in Ecuador is packed but made me want to go back! The Galapagos are otherworldly. The wildlife, the ocean, the community - everything is so beautiful. The guides in both Ecuador and the Galapagos are top notch. Everything was planned really well, and the guides were super knowledgable and personable. I felt super well taken care of and satisfied. Ecuador and the Galapagos were very safe and everyone was super welcoming. Oh and the food was spectacular.

  • Fabulous guides, beautiful wildlife, great activities,

    Lucy C. May 2026
    Everything from start to finish was taken care of by the very caring and professional MBA team. Wilson was so helpful with all my pre-trip questions and was a friendly face when I arrived in Quito. Belén was our host and guide while we were on the Islands, her care, energy, enthusiasm and passion for the country was so infectious, she was a brilliant host and guide for our group. Swimming with the turtles, the friendliness of the local people, and the amazing food, will be long lasting in my memory. I would highly recommend this trip to anyone who likes wildlife and is open for an adventure.

  • A magical trip of a lifetime

    Claire Z. May 2026
    I honestly cannot recommend this Much Better Adventures Galápagos trip highly enough. It was genuinely one of the most magical travel experiences I’ve ever had and I already wish I could do it all over again. The logistics throughout were seamless and the whole trip was incredibly well organised, which allowed us to just enjoy the experience fully without stress. We saw SO much because the itinerary is very packed, but in a good way as there was lots of adventure during the day followed by early nights, which honestly suited the trip perfectly. A huge shoutout to Wilson and Edwin, who were both absolutely amazing throughout, and especially to Belen, who was the most wonderful guide. She was knowledgeable, calm, organised, funny and so clearly passionate about the islands and wildlife. She completely made the trip what it was. The food was also consistently amazing, which genuinely surprised me given the logistics of island hopping. A couple of practical notes for future travellers: - the speedboat from Santa Cruz to Isabela is very bumpy, so definitely come prepared if you are prone to seasickness. - the Quito accommodation is more functional/serviceable than luxurious and can be a bit loud, so I’d recommend earplugs and an eyemask. However, it’s clearly chosen for practical reasons including proximity to the airport and safety/logistics if there is any unrest in the city. There was actually a curfew in Quito while we were there and we genuinely had no idea until we were told afterwards and we never once felt unsafe. Please don’t let that put you off travelling there. Overall: an unforgettable experience. The wildlife, scenery and adventure were incredible, but it was the people and organisation that elevated it into something truly special.

  • Overall, a great trip.

    Colin E. April 2026
    Overall, a great trip.

  • Unforgettable Galapagos adventure

    Dawn B. April 2026
    The Galapagos island hopping trip was exceptional. Everything was seamlessly organised by Wilson and his endlessly positive vibes, ensuring we were always in the right place at the right time without any stress. The food throughout was excellent, with the final evening surpassing all expectations. Belén’s passion and deep knowledge of the islands and their wildlife truly brought the experience to life, while Edwin’s insight into Quito and Ecuador added real depth to the trip. The group dynamic was also a highlight, with like-minded people coming together and quickly forming a great connection. I would highly recommend this trip to anyone looking for a well-planned, enriching, and memorable adventure.

  • First Class Operation and Experience

    Chad L. April 2026
    Where to begin? If you are considering booking the Galapagos with the MBA Team just do it! This was a fantastic experience from start to finish. Everyday was packed with activities and exploration and maximizes every minute of your vacation. While you can opt out of any of the activities I’d recommend trying to get it ALL in. You won’t be disappointed with the islands or the MBA team. I can’t say enough about our guides and leaders, Wilson and Belen. They were thorough and attentive to every single person and need and both have infectious personalities that made the entire journey an absolute blast. The food, the logistics, the experiences, ALL OF IT…. were all second to none. The only downside is the adventure had to end. Thank you, Wil and Belen! You are exceptional hosts and amazing representatives of Ecuador and the Islands. #PositiveVibes!!!

  • The TRIP OF A LIFETIME

    Marisa B. April 2026
    I have been on many tours and Wilson and Belèn were truly the best tour guides I have ever had. They were organized, informative, thoughtful and so much FUN!! Every activity on the itinerary was amazing. Thank you so much for the most memorable, life altering experience!!! I will treasure it always.

  • Book the trip!

    Hannah G. April 2026
    This was the absolute trip of a lifetime. The place itself is so beautiful and so interesting. Wilson and Belen were the perfect guides. Belen expertly took us through the Galapagos with so much knowledge and she was kind and fun, radiating everything a guide should be. Wilson was a brilliant guide - bringing the positive vibes always, showing so much passion for his country and the MBA company, and so much more. He ensured my dietary requirements were always met and helped look after me when I was not feeling well. Everything was expertly planned, the food and accomodation were great and we saw all the amazing wildlife that we hoped. We met loads of amazing locals along the way thanks to Wilson's planning and the work of MBA. Couldn't have asked for more.

  • Wonderful wildlife experience

    russell g. April 2026
    Beautiful islands. The tour was action packed. Great food and guiding throughout. Our guides Wilson, Bellin and Edwin were fantastic throughout. A once in a lifetime trip.

  • Trip of a lifetime

    Jen N. April 2026
    What an adventure! This trip was so well planned…. From the first WhatsApp message to airport drop off, nothing was missed. The beauty of Galapagos speaks for itself, but the kindness and knowledge of the guides made all the difference. Each activity, restaurant, hotel, boat, etc was even better due to the amazing hospitality. I felt safe, listened to, and supported by the guides (and the group). The knowledge, love of nature, and information shared by the guides was top notch. This was my first group travel with strangers trip, but won’t be my last! Wilson, Belen, and Edwin are the absolute best at what they do!!

  • A dream tour in the Galápagos Islands

    Sarah M. April 2026
    There aren’t enough superlatives to describe this amazing tour! We saw so much wildlife (giant tortoise, marine and land iguana, blue footed booby, lava lizard, galapagos mockingbird, frigate bird, sea lion, penguin, baby shark) including many unique species and were able to experience this special place in a way that felt authentic and unobtrusive. Our guides Wilson and Stephi couldn’t do enough for us and ensured that each person in the group was able to get the most out of the activities, from hiking the Sierra Negra volcano to cycling and snorkelling. Wilson never let those ‘positive vibes’ falter: activities were carefully planned but never overly prescribed, food was delicious and logistics were taken care of so that we were able to relax and go with the flow. It was great to meet people from across the Atlantic (and close to home!) and we had lots of fun together. The Galapagos Islands are all about the amazing wildlife and with this tour, we were lucky enough to experience this and also so much more.

  • Incredible

    Sarah L. April 2026
    Well organised, amazing food, varied activities, good accommodation and so much incredible wildlife. Steffi & Wilson were the perfect duo to show us the beautiful Galapagos. Very glad I picked this company - great value, recommend to all, trip of a lifetime. Thank you!

  • Adventure in the Galapagos

    Gennifer R. March 2026
    Our time in Santa Cruz and Isabela in the Galápagos was honestly unforgettable. Santa Cruz had this great mix of energy and wildlife, from wandering through the highlands to seeing giant tortoises just casually living their best lives. Isabela felt wilder and more peaceful, with those “I can’t believe this is real” moments around every corner. Wilson was a huge part of what made the trip so special. He was amazing, fun, patient, and genuinely passionate about the islands. Every walk, boat ride, and wildlife encounter felt like an adventure with him. And Stephi was fantastic too, super knowledgeable and experienced, always adding depth and context to everything we saw. You can tell they both really love what they do. Overall, though, the landscapes, the wildlife, and the people guiding us made this a trip we’ll be talking about for years.

  • Incredible nature, incredible guides

    Russell J. March 2026
    The most beautiful place I’ve ever been. Bring your mask and underwater camera. Swimming with schools of 200+ golden rays, blacktip reef sharks, sea turtles. The first part of the trip started a bit slow, with a focus on cultural Quito and then conservation centres once in the Galapagos. But the volcano hike and swimming was the best I’ve done in a lifetime of island travel. Wilson and Steffi are (hands down) the best guides I’ve ever had on any adventure trip ever. I can’t recommend this trip enough.

  • Incredible Tour!

    Annie S. March 2026
    I cannot recommend this tour enough! It was really well organised, the guides (Wilson and Stefania) were fantastic - so kind, funny & always willing to help. The accommodation and restaurants were all really good and the wildlife was so incredible! Once in a lifetime trip 😊

  • Just incredible

    Matthew G. March 2026
    It's hard to put into words how good this trip was! As soon as I was picked up from the airport, I felt taken care of and knew that I was in for an amazing time. Wilson, our host, was brilliant and our short time in Quito was filled with well-organised tours, activities and delicious food. Once we arrived in the Galapagos, the holiday hit another level. Everywhere you look there are weird landscapes and strange wildlife - all absolutely beautiful. Our guide Stephania was absolutely fantastic! She had the knowledge to enhance our trip, telling us all the information we needed, answering all our questions, but never attempting to be the centre of attention, as we'd seen some other guides be. She let the landscapes and the wildlife do the talking and was the perfect, friendly leader of our group. The itinerary was packed. The days we spent on the islands were filled with excursions and activities, any one of which could have been the highlight. For me, cycling along sandy beaches, hiking up the volcano, and snorkelling with sea turtles and sea lions were all pinch-me moments, but my absolute favourite was kayaking around a small bay, with sharks and turtles swimming underneath us, and Blue-footed Boobies perched on rocks nearby. I'm not sure I've ever eaten so well as on this trip. Meal after meal of delicious, fresh fish, local and international dishes, and a good range of vegetarian meals too. This was, quite possibly, the best week of my life!

  • Incredible from start to finish

    Nicole M. February 2026
    Jam packed with wildlife, culture, amazing food and wonderful people. Stefania was an outstanding guide for our Galápagos days, super friendly and very knowledgeable about the islands. The pace and level of info she gave us was perfect. Wilson was also fab on the Quito side, taking us on a whistle stop tour of all the best parts on day one and making sure everything ran smoothly with our flights. Genuinely cannot fault this trip, I had high expectations for the Galápagos and even they were exceeded.

  • One of the best trips

    David C. February 2026
    One of the best trips we've ever taken! Wilson in Quito & Stephania in the Islands covered every detail from logistics to tickets to hotels to excursions with professionalism & genuine care & helpfulness even when flights were canceled and a passport was lost.

  • Unforgettable Journey through the Galápagos

    Christy M. January 2026
    This was my first MBA trip, and it was genuinely life-changing and an adventure I’ll never forget. From exploring beautiful Quito to experiencing the magic of the Galápagos, every moment felt special. The landscapes, the wildlife, and the sense of adventure were matched only by the amazing people I met along the way. Several of my fellow travelers were repeat MBA adventurers, and every one of them said this was by far the best MBA trip they’ve ever taken. Wilson and Edwin were both excellent guides, incredibly knowledgeable, consistently positive, and always willing to share insights about the places we visited. Their enthusiasm and professionalism added so much to the overall experience. Erickita was the real star of the show. Her knowledge is unmatched, her personality is positive and exuberant, and she is incredibly organized. The daily recap texts she sent each evening to remind us what we would need the next day were extremely helpful and made the journey even more enjoyable because we had what we needed, when we needed it. My only suggestion would be to update the kit list. You don’t need a towel because they were always provided or many long-sleeve shirts. You’ll be in shorts and short sleeves most of the time. One or two UV long-sleeve shirts are perfect for especially hot days in the Galápagos, but otherwise pack light. I’m so grateful for this experience and will carry these memories with me forever. I can’t recommend this trip enough. 5 stars!!

  • ONCE IN A LIFETIME TRIP

    Adelle P. January 2026
    This was my first MBA holiday and it truly surpassed all my expectations! The itinerary was superb, fitting in lots of activities everyday but it never felt too much. We snorkeled, hiked, biked and kayaked and it was so much fun. We had absolutely superb guides Edwin, Wilson and Erika, who made us feel right at ease, from meeting us at the airport to everything else. They are all so knowledgeable and kind (and great fun!), they truly felt like friends. We saw so many wonderful animals tortoises, turtles (so many!), sharks, blue footed boobys, frigate birds, tropical fish, sea lions, iguanas, it was animal heaven and they are all lounging around, not bothered by people at all. Getting the chance to swim alongside marine iguanas, sea turtles and sea lions will be an experience I will never forget. All the meals were really yummy and they catered well for the veggies in the group. I'm used to organising my own trips, so trusting an organisation to do it for me was a little scary for me but I honestly couldn't have planned it better myself and it was so stress free, all the tickets/domestic flights/hotels/restaurants etc being sorted for us we literally just had to turn up and enjoy the ride! My group also made the experience for me, we all got on so well. I also love so much that they include the local people in experiences and we had the opportunity to visit local people and see the work behind some of the produce, so I know that we were supporting the local economy whilst there. If you are considering booking this trip, do not hesitate you will not regret it!

  • Perfect adventure - get booked!

    Jen C. December 2025
    I’ve wanted to travel to the Galapagos for a very long time, and I’m so glad I chose MBA to travel with. The organisation was perfect - everything was timed to get the best out of every single day without ever feeling too much. From the tour of Quito through to Galápagos island hopping our guide Wilson made sure we all had everything we needed to have fun, feel safe, and have truly magical experiences from beginning to end. Including handling my suitcase lost in transfer like a pro - Wilson went above and beyond beyond to make sure I was reunited with my clothes as soon as possible and ensure I was sorted in the interim (tip: be better than me and pack hand luggage wisely, especially with a short flight transfer window!!). Our guide for Galápagos, Ericka, was absolutely outstanding - her encyclopaedic knowledge and passion for the islands as well as fun energy and genuine care for us as a group made the trip extra special, and something I will never forget. Great people, great landscape, magical memories and outstanding hospitality across all the team - including local businesses, craftsmen, hotels, and more. Massive thanks to all the team for creating such a fantastic trip, and highly recommend anyone thinking about it to get booking!

  • Just amazing!!

    Maria A. December 2025
    This trip will be a forever-memory for me! It was genuinely perfect in every way. To be able to step into a world filled with natural beauty, surrounded by what I consider to be friends: my wonderful guides, Wilson and Erika and my fellow travellers, was a very special experience I will never forget! Thank you so much! This is my 7th MBA trip and I don’t think it was possible to make this a more well-organised trip, everything was planned meticulously to where we did several different activities each day. The activities we did were varied and well-balanced, with a mixture of hiking, cycling, kayaking and swimming/snorkelling to see the various landscapes and animals the Galapagos has to offer. The amount of wildlife I saw also greatly surpassed any of my expectations, I saw so many sea lions and their babies, iguanas (both marine and land), lizards, geckos, birds (of course many Blue-footed boobys), a hummingbird, many turtles, tropical fish, so many sharks and so forth! The day out in Quito with Edwin and Wilson was also varied, I particularly enjoyed the cathedrals and the equator museum! In terms of packing, I would definitely recommend packing and using as much as possible sunscreen (our guides were always making sure we did) and long-sleeved tops and thin hiking trousers worked a treat during the kayaking and hiking days. If you have a protection sleeve for your phone or a go-pro then that’ll work a treat for filming underwater. The accommodation and food was excellent, there was always a selection of options available to choose from for me and I always felt the quality was very good. On Isabela and Santa Cruz islands we went to several different restaurants for lunch and dinner, each with its own style and selection of food which I found exciting and new each time. Speaking on this, I really appreciate the fact that we went to a range of local businesses run by local people, not chains, for our accommodation and food. It added real authenticity to the trip. I really must praise my guides Wilson, Erika and Edwin once again for their spectacular hosting and care. Wilson stayed with our group throughout the trip and really did pull all the stops to make this an organised, fun and safe trip for us. He is also a really kind person and an absolute pleasure to spend time with and talk to. Erika is extremely knowledgeable about the islands, able to answer any question thrown at her with passion and enthusiasm, I learnt so much from her and had fun in the process! Thank you to ‘mi familia’, aka my guides and my group, for making this a trip to remember. I wholeheartedly recommend this trip and if you are thinking of booking go for it, you won’t regret it!

  • Incredible Galapagos tour!

    KAREN M. December 2025
    Exceeded my expectations on every level! Wilson, Edwin, and Ericka are the most knowledgeable and organized guides I’ve ever had. I never felt in a rush to take pictures and they have every experience you could want on this trip! Local artisans, so many beautiful landscapes, biking, snorkeling and hiking activities keep you moving but not worn out. We saw so many animals and learned so much in a short amount of time. The food was also amazing and great variety. Wilson and Ericka have the most positive and laid back vibes while executing every single meal, activity, and transfer flawlessly. They went above and beyond to accommodate everyone’s needs from lost luggage to food allergies. I could not speak more highly of this trip, if you were hesitant about booking, definitely book it!

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Departure dates

  • Friday 24th July 2026

    to Sunday 2nd August 2026

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What to Pack

Backpack with hiking gear laid out

Know before you go! Some stuff we'll provide, other things you'll need to bring.

Kit List

What's included?
  • Snorkeling equipment (mask, flippers and snorkel)
  • Bike and helmet
What do I need to bring?

Bags

  • Soft overnight duffel bag or backpack
  • Daypack (20-30 liters)
  • Small drybag

Clothes

  • Light waterproof jacket
  • Fleece jacket or similar
  • Lightweight pants/shorts/skirts
  • T-shirts
  • Underwear and socks
  • Swimwear x 2
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunhat
  • Something to sleep in
  • Hiking boots (worn-in)
  • Sandals

Other

  • Padlock for left luggage
  • Universal travel plug adapter
  • Power bank or solar charger
  • Passports (and visas)
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Insect repellent (Ideally 0% DEET)
  • Sunscreen
  • Personal first-aid kit (inc. blister treatment)
  • Personal items (biodegradable toiletries, sanitary wear etc)
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Alcohol hand-gel
  • Reusable water bottle

FAQs

Yes, there are some payments that you'll need to make locally on this trip. Much Better Adventures usually include everything to make for a hassle-free trip, however sometimes there are payments that must be made in person at borders or national parks which require cash payment along with your passport. Entry to the Galapagos is operated like this by the Ecuadorian government. Please make sure you bring along the following:

  • $100 USD in cash for the Galapagos National Park entry fee (Note: From August 1st, 2024 onwards this entrance fee is increasing to $200 USD per person). This fee is paid by each adult visiting the Galapagos, and this payment goes towards protecting the wider national park and marine reserve. You must pay this fee on arrival at Baltra Airport while presenting your passport for immigration control. It can only be paid individually by the passport holder.

  • $10 USD in cash for a municipal tax to enter Isabela Island on Day 5. This is payable when presenting your passport upon arrival on the island.

The tap water in mainland Ecuador and Galapagos is not always gentle on the stomach for those who haven't been in Latin America for a while. There is purified water in each of the hotels which you can use to fill up each morning, so be sure to pack a reusable water bottle or two.

Yes, you can leave excess luggage in Quito at the start of the trip, to be collected when you return to Quito after your week in the Galapagos.

Your local host will provide a suitable helmet that conforms to recognized safety standards. If you have sizing concerns, contact your local host in advance so they can advise on fit and availability.

If you wish to bring your own helmet it must be suitable for the activity and conform to recognized safety standards. Please see our Cycling safety guidance for further information.

Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.

Our team of Adventure Hunters co-create exclusive adventures which are run by highly vetted, specialist hosts. The trip is run by our trusted host partner in the destination. We only work with independent, local, in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with. You’ll be introduced to the host straight after making a booking via the Much Better Adventures platform.

Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers review the practical information available on the UK Government’s FCDO website, where you can find up-to-date advice by searching for your destination(s).

If you are based in the United States, you can also check the latest travel advisories from the U.S. Department of State.

For customers joining from other international locations, we recommend checking the official travel advice issued by your country of residence, as guidance may vary.

We recommend checking out the country-specific information and also talking to a travel nurse.

We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates daily, so prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.

If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.

All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. You must be over 18 to join one of our trips.

You're always in good company on one of our adventures.

Our trips typically consist of a mix of solo travelers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.

Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves, and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way.

It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.

Don't just take our word for it:

  • 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
  • 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
  • 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends

See here for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.

Seasons in the Galapagos are split into the cool and dry season (June to November) and the warm and wet season (December to May). The seas are warmer, calmer, and have better visibility in the warm and wet season. Rain showers in the wet season tend to be over quickly and are often a pleasant break from the heat and sun.

Average temperatures in the warm and wet season from December to May range from a low of 72°F to a high of 88°F.

Average temperatures in the cool and dry season from June to November range from a low of 66°F to a high of 81°F.

The wildlife in the Galapagos can be seen year-round, as many of the big draws are resident to the islands, with few migratory species.

We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre program, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.

What's the number?
It works out on average at 1024kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.

The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.

But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:

  • Driving 1000 miles/1609km would be approximately 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person, if there were two of you in it).
  • A return economy class flight between London and New York would be approximately 1619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
  • 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approximately 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.

What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.

Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.

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