SAN CRISTÓBAL
Surf, Snorkel, Explore:
The Ultimate Surf & Nature Adventure
Surf uncrowded waves while sea lions and turtles play beside you, snorkel among rays, sharks, and marine iguanas, and explore San Cristóbal by boat and on foot, encountering iconic Galápagos wildlife — from blue-footed boobies to giant tortoises. With expert coaching, each surf session becomes a chance to refine your skills while fully experiencing the island’s breathtaking marine environment.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- Six nights accommodation at central oceanfront hotel
- Breakfast, snacks, and lunch (included alcoholic beverages)
- Surfboards and snorkel equipment
- Surf sessions by boat
- Surf coaching (in water and video coaching from Head Surf Coach)
- Catamaran tour to famous dive/snorkel location (option to SCUBA dive)
- Snorkelling expeditions to numerous remote locations
- Hiking highlands to visit Galápagos Tortoises and Volcanic Crater Lake
- Surf video/photo package
- Final farewell dinner
- Taxi transfers on the island
- Local Galápagos Naturalist Guide
- Marine Biologist/Divemaster
- Pre organised Galápagos Transit Control Card
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
- SCUBA diving on chartered boat day for certified divers (Additional $100 USD per boat trip)
- Massages
PRICE
- Shared Room (up to 4 people): $3,250 USD
- Shared Double/Twin Room: $3,650 USD
- Private Room: $3,950 USD
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
- International flights to and from Ecuador
- Domestic flights to and from Galápagos – fly into and out of San Cristóbal
- Galápagos National Park Entrance Fee ($200 USD per person payable at airport upon arrival)
- Travel insurance
- Dinners (dinner options ranging between $6-$30 USD)
- Spending money for souvenirs etc
- Optional SCUBA Dive for certified divers if they wish to dive on boat charter day in San Cristóbal (extra $100 USD)
This trip is a collaboration with Bocas del Toro Surfing
HOSTED BY
Michelle
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.
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?
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 wetsuit do you recommend? Whats is the water temperature in May?
In May, San Cristóbal enjoys warm, comfortable conditions as the islands transition from the warm/wet season into cooler months.
- Air temperature: approx. 22–28°C (72–82°F)
- Water temperature: approx. 22–24°C (72–76°F)
Most guests surf comfortably in a springsuit. If you tend to feel the cold, a 3/2mm wetsuit is a good option, especially for late afternoon or sunset sessions.
Should I bring my own surfboard?
Surfboards are included in the package price, so there’s no need to bring your own unless you prefer to travel with a familiar board.
If you choose to bring one, the cost is approximately $40 USD to transport a surfboard from mainland Ecuador to the Galápagos.
With Avianca, surfboards can usually be checked as standard luggage if they are under 23kg and 158cm in length. Please note that airline policies can change, so we recommend confirming directly with the airline prior to departure.
What surfboards are available?
We offer a range of quality surfboards, from shortboards to 9’0 longboards, suitable for different experience levels.
Before your arrival, you’ll complete a short questionnaire about your surfing ability and board preference. This allows us to ensure the most suitable board is ready for you when you arrive.
Can I come with a friend or partner who doesn’t surf?
Absolutely. This trip is designed as a balance of surf and nature-based experiences, and it’s very common for friends or partners to join who aren’t regular surfers.
While surf sessions are running, non-surfers can:
- Paddleboard or snorkel nearby
- Relax on the beach
- Explore town
- Book a massage
- Enjoy personal downtime
Let us know in advance if this applies to you, and we’ll help tailor the experience so everyone feels included.
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.
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 cash USD 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 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.