SANTA CRUZ – ISABELA – SAN CRISTÓBAL
Island Hop, Dive, Explore:
The Galápagos Ocean Adventure
Hop between Santa Cruz, Isabela, and San Cristóbal by plane, boat, and foot, blending epic ocean adventures with unforgettable land explorations. Snorkel and freedive alongside playful sea lions and curious marine iguanas, glide past rays and turtles, and keep your eyes peeled for hammerhead sharks. On land, hike volcanoes, explore lava tunnels, and stroll beside ancient giant tortoises — a journey that immerses you fully in the wild wonders of the Galápagos.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- 8 nights of ocean view or quiet central accommodation
- Breakfast, lunch and snacks each day
- All transport upon arrival in the Galápagos Islands – Inter Island scenic flight, ferries and taxis
- Private dive expeditions by boat (option to SCUBA dive)
- Ample snorkel opportunities at secret locations
- Land based adventures to volcanoues, lava tunnels and tortoise breeding centre
- Lecture from local researcher
- Private Galápagos Naturalist Guide, Marine Biologist and Divemasters
- Galápagos Transit Control Card
- Photographs of your journey
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
SCUBA diving at two locations for certified divers (Additional $100 USD per boat trip)
PRICE
- Shared Quadruple Room: $4,650 USD
- Double Room: $4,750 USD
- Private Room: $4,950 USD
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
- International flights to and from Galápagos
- Galápagos National Park Entrance Fee ($200 USD per person payable at airport upon arrival)
- Travel insurance
- Dinners
- Additional Scuba Dives (~ $100 USD per double dive)
- Mask, snorkel, fins and wetsuit
This trip is a collaboration with Liv for the Sea
HOSTED BY
Liv
Carolina
Hannah
Full itinerary
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PHOTO GALLERY
Last trips photo gallery
Have questions?
FAQ's
Find all the answers here to plan your perfect Galápagos adventure
Am I fit enough for this trip?
If you’re comfortable and confident in the ocean without assistance, you’re more than ready to join us.
This is not a freediving-focused expedition, it’s a marine-focused experience designed for ocean lovers of all kinds. We welcome snorkelers, scuba divers, and freedivers to take part and enjoy the adventure at their own pace.
No extreme fitness level is required. Just a love for the ocean and a sense of adventure.
Is this a freediving course?
No. This is not a freediving course.
With so much to see and experience in the Galápagos, we don’t want to spend valuable time in a classroom or structured course setting. Instead, this trip is designed as an immersive marine adventure, focused on exploration and wildlife encounters.
How do I get to the Galápagos Islands from Australia?
Travelling to the Galápagos from Australia involves a few international connections, but with good planning, it’s very straightforward.
Recommended flight route:
Australia → Santiago (Chile) → Quito or Guayaquil (Ecuador) → San Cristóbal or Baltra (Galápagos)
We strongly recommend staying one night in Quito or Guayaquil before flying to the Galápagos. This allows for smoother connections and helps reduce travel fatigue after long-haul flights.
Your arrival airport will depend on where your specific expedition begins.
Once your trip is confirmed, we’ll provide clear flight guidance and timing recommendations to make your journey as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Do I need a visa to travel to the Galápagos Islands?
Visa requirements depend on your passport and any countries you transit through on your way to Ecuador.
If you’re travelling from Australia, you may require transit visas for countries such as Chile or the USA, depending on your route and passport.
Ecuador also requires proof of onward or return travel upon entry.
It is your responsibility to ensure you hold the correct visas for all countries on your itinerary. We strongly recommend checking official government websites or speaking with your travel agent well in advance of departure.
What is the Galápagos Tourist Transit Control Card (TCT)?
✔ Included in your trip price
All visitors to the Galápagos require a Tourist Transit Control Card (TCT). This system helps local authorities manage and protect travel throughout the islands.
Your TCT is included in your package and organised on your behalf. Prior to your trip, we’ll request your flight details so we can prepare everything in advance.
On the morning of your flight to the Galápagos, a representative will meet you at the airport in Quito or Guayaquil, provide your Transit Control Card, and assist with check-in—ensuring a smooth and stress-free departure.
What is the Galápagos National Park Entry Fee
Not included in your trip price
The Galápagos National Park Entry Fee is a mandatory conservation tax paid on arrival in the islands.
- $200 USD per person (for international visitors, effective August 2024)
- Payable in cash only at the airport upon arrival
This fee plays a vital role in protecting the Galápagos ecosystem. As stated by the Galápagos National Park:
“Funds from the tourist entry tax are used to finance the conservation of terrestrial and marine biodiversity and to benefit the local community.”
By visiting the Galápagos, you are directly contributing to the preservation of one of the most extraordinary ecosystems on Earth.
Is travel insurance mandatory?
Yes. Travel insurance is mandatory for all trips to the Galápagos.
Your policy must include:
- Water-based activities (snorkelling, surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking)
- Trip cancellation coverage
- Medical and hospitalisation coverage
We strongly recommend arranging insurance well in advance to ensure full coverage for all planned activities.
What should I pack for my expedition?
For the water activities. We recommend bringing:
- Reef-safe sunscreen, zinc, long-sleeve rash vest, hat and sunglasses
- Mask, snorkel and fins
- Spring suit or 3/2mm wetsuit (depending on season)
*Wetsuits and snorkelling gear are provided on boat days, but bringing your own ensures the best fit and avoids rental needs on beach days.
For the on land & travel essentials. We recommend bringing:
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months), flight tickets, insurance documents
- USD cash + Wise card
- Waterproof bag, spray jacket, casual clothing
- USA power adapter (Type A/B)
- Prescription medication if needed
Packing tips:
- Compress wetsuits using laundry or vacuum bags
- Bring two pairs of shoes: sandals + runners
- Use a dry bag for valuables
- Keep toiletries small to travel light
Are there rest days during the trip?
We don’t schedule formal “rest days” during our expeditions, as we want you to make the most of your time in the Galápagos.
That said, evenings are free, giving you space to unwind, explore town, or enjoy dinner at your own pace. Activities are also designed with flexibility, and there’s always room to slow things down if needed.
Is dive or snorkel gear available?
We strongly encourage guests to organise their own snorkel gear prior to departure, as you’ll be using it daily. Having your own mask, snorkel, and fins ensures a better fit, greater comfort, and a more enjoyable experience in the water.
If you require any specific or specialised gear, please get in touch with us ahead of time. We will be able to help arrange what you need for the trip.
Can I stay longer in the Galápagos?
Yes. If you’d like to extend your time in the Galápagos, we’re happy to organise a custom extension tailored to your interests.
Whether you’d like more surfing, diving, island exploration, or simply extra time to relax, we’ll help design an extension that fits seamlessly with your trip.
Should I bring cash?
Yes. We strongly recommend arriving with USD cash.
- $200 USD cash is required for the Galápagos National Park Entry Fee in the airport
- Many local restaurants and small businesses accept cash only
- ATMs are available but can be unreliable or run out of cash
We suggest bringing enough cash to comfortably cover dinners, small purchases, and souvenirs. A Wise card is also a great option for lower fees.
What if my luggage is over the 13kg limit for inter–island flights?
We recommend packing as light as possible, however we understand that a 13kg limit can feel restrictive, especially on longer trips.
If your luggage is only slightly over the limit, you can usually pay for the additional weight at the airport, subject to availability and airline discretion.
Alternatively, we can arrange for an extra bag to be sent via ferry between islands. Please note that ferry luggage transfers are not guaranteed to arrive on the same day, so this option is best suited for non-essential items.
We’ll guide you on the best option based on your itinerary to ensure your trip runs as smoothly as possible.
Why is April one of the best times to visit the Galápagos?
April falls during the transition between the warm and cool seasons, creating some of the most dynamic conditions in the Galápagos.
During this time, both terrestrial and marine life are highly active, offering exceptional wildlife encounters on land and in the water.
From January to May, the Galápagos typically experiences:
- Warmer, sunnier conditions
- Less wind
- Calmer ocean conditions, ideal for snorkeling, diving, and island hopping
In contrast, June to December marks the cooler, drier season, when the Humboldt Current brings cooler water temperatures and choppier seas.
April strikes the perfect balance—great weather, active wildlife, and comfortable ocean conditions—making this month an ideal time for an immersive Galápagos experience.
In April, the water temperature in the Galápagos averages around 24°C.
We recommend packing a 3/2mm wetsuit for longer sessions, along with a wetsuit top or spring suit for shorter snorkelling sessions.
The air temperature is typically warm and comfortable, ranging from 22–29°C, making it ideal for both water activities and exploring on land.
What is the rough daily cost of dinners?
Dinner prices in the Galápagos vary depending on where you choose to eat.
- Local eateries: $6–$12 USD
- Mid-range cafés and restaurants: $12–$20 USD
- Waterfront or Western-style restaurants: $25–$30 USD
There are plenty of excellent, affordable local options, so you can easily choose what suits your budget and appetite each evening.
What is the local language?
Spanish is the official language of the Galápagos Islands.
Many people working in tourism speak some English, but learning a few basic Spanish phrases will greatly enhance your experience. We recommend downloading an app like Duolingo before you arrive—it’s an easy and fun way to get started.