{"id":62976,"date":"2019-06-27T10:24:04","date_gmt":"2019-06-27T09:24:04","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/flashpacknew.wpengine.com\/adventure-trips\/discover-natures-wildest-frontier-in-the-galapagos\/"},"modified":"2026-04-27T14:51:11","modified_gmt":"2026-04-27T13:51:11","slug":"discover-natures-wildest-frontier-in-the-galapagos","status":"publish","type":"trip","link":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/us\/adventure-trips\/discover-natures-wildest-frontier-in-the-galapagos\/","title":{"rendered":"Ecuador &#038; the Gal\u00e1pagos"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Darwin. Attenborough. Now, you? Join an alumni of explorers and step foot on the Galapagos to come face-to-face with its fearless wildlife. This expedition is for anyone seeking a \u2018once-in-a-lifetime\u2019 experience.\u00a0 Kayak, bike and hike your way around these isolated Pacific isles, spotting sharks and seals, dining underground and sailing aboard speedboats and yachts. Bookended by cocktails and modern Ecuadorian cuisine in Quito; this is our culture-rich take on an iconic journey.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":130720,"menu_order":459,"template":"","class_list":["post-62976","trip","type-trip","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","location-ecuador","location-galapagos-islands","location-south-america","location-americas","month-april-us","month-august-us","month-december-us","month-july-us","month-may-us","month-november-us","style-bucketlist-us","style-safari-trips","duration-long-haul-trips"],"thumbnail_video":[{"file":false,"codec":"mp4","video_url":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/EC1_Thumbnail_1x1.mp4"}],"checkout_hero_banner":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/EC1-1152x648.jpeg","acf":[],"template_id":"EC1","duration":9,"trip_limit":8,"img_header":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/EC1_Thumb-1000x620.jpg","continent":"The Americas","country":"Gal\u00e1pagos Islands","countries":["Ecuador","Gal\u00e1pagos Islands"],"prices_between":{"gbp":{"min":"\u00a34710","max":"\u00a35930"},"eur":{"min":"\u20ac5505","max":"\u20ac6930"},"usd":{"min":"$6115","max":"$7695"},"cad":{"min":"$8035","max":"$10115"},"aud":{"min":"$8995","max":"$11320"},"nzd":{"min":"$10385","max":"$13075"},"hkd":{"min":"$45715","max":"$57530"},"aed":{"min":"DH21385","max":"DH26910"}},"about":"<p><strong>When Darwin visited the Gal\u00e1pagos Islands in 1835, he knew he\u2019d found something special. Nearly two centuries later, this otherworldly archipelago remains a traveler&#8217;s dream.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Over nine days, you\u2019ll kayak, bike and hike your way around these isolated Pacific isles, coming face to face with the famously fearless wildlife. Think staying on a giant tortoise reserve where you&#8217;ll dine in a lava tube restaurant. Or snorkeling with white-tipped reef sharks before climbing the crater of the mighty Sierra Negra volcano.<\/p>\n<p>And let\u2019s not forget your mainland base: Quito. Here, you\u2019ll sample the world\u2019s finest cocoa and stand with one foot in each hemisphere before bonding with your group over agave nectar cocktails.<\/p>\n<p>This is what once-in-a-lifetime really looks like.<\/p>\n","highlights":[],"lang":"us","trip_type":[{"term_id":11962,"name":"Bucket-List","slug":"bucketlist-us","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":11962,"taxonomy":"style","description":"Welcome to Flash Pack\u2019s signature adventures. full of immersive, once-in-a-lifetime moments in some of the world's most iconic destinations.","parent":0,"count":14,"filter":"raw","term_order":"0"},{"term_id":8457,"name":"Wildlife &amp; Safari","slug":"safari-trips","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":8457,"taxonomy":"style","description":"There are few moments more magical than spotting exotic and indigenous creatures in their natural habitat for the first time. It\u2019s why we\u2019ve crafted a series of global adventures around safaris and wildlife interactions, so why not take your pick?","parent":0,"count":14,"filter":"raw","term_order":"0"}],"hidden":false,"seasons":["spring","summer","winter"],"scenery":["beach","mountain"],"activities":["boat_trip","cooking_class","cycling","hiking","island_hopping","local_culture","water_sports","wildlife"],"activity_level":["moderate"],"key_locations":"Quito, Santa Cruz, Sierra Negra volcano, Guayaquil, galapagos","itinerary":[{"local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-snapshot":"Arrive in Quito Airport (UIO)","local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-header":"Ecuadorian welcome meal","local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-text":"<ul>\n<li>Touch down in the capital Quito, surrounded by snow-capped Andean peaks, where <strong>a private Flash Pack transfer will be waiting to take your to your hotel<\/strong><\/li>\n<li>Head to a local restaurant for <strong>a dinner of Ecuadorian fusion cuisine<\/strong> and <strong>get to know your group as you enjoy flavorful and creative dishes<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","campaign_id":"","trip_highlight":false,"trip_highlight_strapline":"","quote":{"text":"","author":"","authorSocialUrl":"","date":""},"header":"Ecuadorian welcome meal","text":"<ul>\n<li>Touch down in the capital Quito, surrounded by snow-capped Andean peaks, where <strong>a private Flash Pack transfer will be waiting to take your to your hotel<\/strong><\/li>\n<li>Head to a local restaurant for <strong>a dinner of Ecuadorian fusion cuisine<\/strong> and <strong>get to know your group as you enjoy flavorful and creative dishes<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","snapshot":"Arrive in Quito Airport (UIO)","images":["https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/EC1_ItineraryDay12.jpg"],"day":1},{"local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-snapshot":"Quito walking tour | Mitad del Mundo ","local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-header":"Walking tour, food market tastings & agave cocktails","local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-text":"<ul>\n<li><strong>Take a walking tour of the Unesco-listed city,<\/strong> with its steep cobbled streets, faded baroque monasteries and quaint colonial churches<\/li>\n<li>Visit a food market where you\u2019ll take part in a cleansing with a local \u2018curandero\u2019 (healer), <strong>mix your own exotic fruit juice and sample some tasty artisanal chocolate<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Stand with one foot in each hemisphere at the equator line<\/strong> at Mitad Del Mundo before enjoying some agave cocktails with your group<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","campaign_id":"","trip_highlight":false,"trip_highlight_strapline":"","quote":{"text":"","author":"","authorSocialUrl":"","date":""},"header":"Walking tour, food market tastings & agave cocktails","text":"<ul>\n<li><strong>Take a walking tour of the Unesco-listed city,<\/strong> with its steep cobbled streets, faded baroque monasteries and quaint colonial churches<\/li>\n<li>Visit a food market where you\u2019ll take part in a cleansing with a local \u2018curandero\u2019 (healer), <strong>mix your own exotic fruit juice and sample some tasty artisanal chocolate<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Stand with one foot in each hemisphere at the equator line<\/strong> at Mitad Del Mundo before enjoying some agave cocktails with your group<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","snapshot":"Quito walking tour | Mitad del Mundo ","images":["https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/EC1_ItineraryDay21.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/EC1_ItineraryDay1.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/EC1_Quito.jpg"],"day":2},{"local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-snapshot":"Flight to Gal\u00e1pagos | Paddleboarding | Lava tube restaurant","local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-header":"Kayaking & lava tube dining","local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-text":"<ul>\n<li>Catch a flight to the Gal\u00e1pagos Islands, and start your wildlife adventure by <strong>searching for sea lions and reef sharks<\/strong> on a kayaking or paddleboarding excursion<\/li>\n<li>Journey up into the beautiful highlands of Santa Cruz Island where you\u2019ll be <strong>staying on a glampsite surrounded by giant tortoises<\/strong> &#8211; a truly unique experience<\/li>\n<li>Take fine dining to a whole new level as you <strong>enjoy dinner with your group in a unique lava tunnel restaurant,<\/strong> located 70 feet underground<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","campaign_id":"10486","trip_highlight":true,"trip_highlight_strapline":"Enjoy a candlelit meal in an underground lava tube restaurant","quote":{"text":"The lava cave dinner was an amazing experience I never ever would have found or done on my own","author":"Hannah T","authorSocialUrl":"","date":"May 2024"},"header":"Kayaking & lava tube dining","text":"<ul>\n<li>Catch a flight to the Gal\u00e1pagos Islands, and start your wildlife adventure by <strong>searching for sea lions and reef sharks<\/strong> on a kayaking or paddleboarding excursion<\/li>\n<li>Journey up into the beautiful highlands of Santa Cruz Island where you\u2019ll be <strong>staying on a glampsite surrounded by giant tortoises<\/strong> &#8211; a truly unique experience<\/li>\n<li>Take fine dining to a whole new level as you <strong>enjoy dinner with your group in a unique lava tunnel restaurant,<\/strong> located 70 feet underground<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","snapshot":"Flight to Gal\u00e1pagos | Paddleboarding | Lava tube restaurant","images":["https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/EC1_ItineraryDay33.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/EC1_ItineraryDay31.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/EC1_ItineraryDay32.jpg"],"day":3},{"local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-snapshot":"Nature hike | Garrapetero Beach ","local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-header":"Snorkeling, kayaking, cooking class & Charles Darwin Research Centre","local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-text":"<ul>\n<li><strong>Kayak and snorkel the turquoise waters of Tortuga Bay,<\/strong> a pristine stretch of white sand teeming with marine life.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Step into the kitchen for a hands-on cooking class,<\/strong> learning island recipes passed down through generations.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Visit the Charles Darwin Research Centre<\/strong> to witness the work of the conservationists protecting the Gal\u00e1pagos\u2019 unique wildlife<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","campaign_id":"10485","trip_highlight":true,"trip_highlight_strapline":"Stay in a giant tortoise reserve in Santa Cruz\u2019s verdant highlands","quote":{"text":"Staying at the magic Galapagos property was literal magic. We woke up one morning to a giant tortoise right outside our room","author":"Samantha H","authorSocialUrl":"","date":"March 2024"},"header":"Snorkeling, kayaking, cooking class & Charles Darwin Research Centre","text":"<ul>\n<li><strong>Kayak and snorkel the turquoise waters of Tortuga Bay,<\/strong> a pristine stretch of white sand teeming with marine life.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Step into the kitchen for a hands-on cooking class,<\/strong> learning island recipes passed down through generations.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Visit the Charles Darwin Research Centre<\/strong> to witness the work of the conservationists protecting the Gal\u00e1pagos\u2019 unique wildlife<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","snapshot":"Nature hike | Garrapetero Beach ","images":["https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/EC1_ItineraryDay42.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/EC1_ItineraryDay40.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/EC1_ItineraryDay41.jpg"],"day":4},{"local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-snapshot":"Explore uninhabited islands","local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-header":"Uninhabited islands & wildlife spotting by yacht","local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-text":"<ul>\n<li>Join an expert naturalist guide and <strong>embark on a motor yacht excursion to some of the smaller, more remote islands;<\/strong> your crew will prepare a delicious lunch on board<\/li>\n<li><strong>Search for iconic wildlife,<\/strong> such as blue-footed boobies, nesting frigates and penguins, keeping your eyes peeled for rays, albatrosses and spinner dolphins too<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","campaign_id":"10487","trip_highlight":false,"trip_highlight_strapline":"","quote":{"text":"","author":"","authorSocialUrl":"","date":""},"header":"Uninhabited islands & wildlife spotting by yacht","text":"<ul>\n<li>Join an expert naturalist guide and <strong>embark on a motor yacht excursion to some of the smaller, more remote islands;<\/strong> your crew will prepare a delicious lunch on board<\/li>\n<li><strong>Search for iconic wildlife,<\/strong> such as blue-footed boobies, nesting frigates and penguins, keeping your eyes peeled for rays, albatrosses and spinner dolphins too<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","snapshot":"Explore uninhabited islands","images":["https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/EC1_ItineraryDay52.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/EC1_ItineraryDay50.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/EC1_ItineraryDay53.1.jpg"],"day":5},{"local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-snapshot":"Transfer to Isabela | Snorkel with sharks","local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-header":"Snorkel with sharks & penguins & Wetlands Trail cycling","local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-text":"<ul>\n<li><strong>Travel by speedboat to Isabela,<\/strong> the largest of the Gal\u00e1pagos islands, with its skyline of rumbling volcanoes<\/li>\n<li><strong>Snorkel\u00a0in the crystalline water of the Tintoreras islets;<\/strong> don\u2019t be surprised if some inquisitive sharks, penguins, turtles or sea lions join you<\/li>\n<li><strong>Bike Isabela\u2019s Wetlands Trail<\/strong> to experience different ecosystems; stop off at the historic Wall of Tears where World War II prisoners were held<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","campaign_id":"10498","trip_highlight":true,"trip_highlight_strapline":"Swim next to white-tipped reef sharks & Gal\u00e1pagos penguin","quote":{"text":"Snorkeling with sea turtles and sharks and penguins was a truly unforgettable experience","author":"Lilly S","authorSocialUrl":"","date":"December 2023"},"header":"Snorkel with sharks & penguins & Wetlands Trail cycling","text":"<ul>\n<li><strong>Travel by speedboat to Isabela,<\/strong> the largest of the Gal\u00e1pagos islands, with its skyline of rumbling volcanoes<\/li>\n<li><strong>Snorkel\u00a0in the crystalline water of the Tintoreras islets;<\/strong> don\u2019t be surprised if some inquisitive sharks, penguins, turtles or sea lions join you<\/li>\n<li><strong>Bike Isabela\u2019s Wetlands Trail<\/strong> to experience different ecosystems; stop off at the historic Wall of Tears where World War II prisoners were held<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","snapshot":"Transfer to Isabela | Snorkel with sharks","images":["https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/EC1_ItineraryDay60.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/EC1_GALLERY2.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/EC1_ItineraryDay62.jpg"],"day":6},{"local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-snapshot":"Sierra Negra volcano hike ","local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-header":"Sierra Negra volcano hike & beach time","local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-text":"<ul>\n<li><strong>Hike up the mighty Sierra Negra volcano,<\/strong> 1,000 meters above sea level, to gaze out across the world\u2019s second largest caldera<\/li>\n<li>Continue past lava fields and fumaroles to the rim of Volc\u00e1n Chico where you\u2019ll <strong>enjoy a picnic lunch in the shade of a \u2018jaboncillo\u2019 tree<\/strong> before some R&amp;R on the beach<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","campaign_id":"","trip_highlight":false,"trip_highlight_strapline":"","quote":{"text":"","author":"","authorSocialUrl":"","date":""},"header":"Sierra Negra volcano hike & beach time","text":"<ul>\n<li><strong>Hike up the mighty Sierra Negra volcano,<\/strong> 1,000 meters above sea level, to gaze out across the world\u2019s second largest caldera<\/li>\n<li>Continue past lava fields and fumaroles to the rim of Volc\u00e1n Chico where you\u2019ll <strong>enjoy a picnic lunch in the shade of a \u2018jaboncillo\u2019 tree<\/strong> before some R&amp;R on the beach<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","snapshot":"Sierra Negra volcano hike ","images":["https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/EC1_ItineraryDay71.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/EC1_ItineraryDay73.2.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/EC1_ItineraryDay73.1.jpg"],"day":7},{"local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-snapshot":"Flight to Quito | Farewell dinner","local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-header":"Traditional farewell meal","local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-text":"<ul>\n<li>Say goodbye to the enchanted Gal\u00e1pagos Islands <strong>catch a flight back to the mainland<\/strong><\/li>\n<li>Gather with your group for <strong>a farewell dinner at a cozy and traditional Ecuadorian restaurant<\/strong> to celebrate the end of an extraordinary adventure<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","campaign_id":"","trip_highlight":false,"trip_highlight_strapline":"","quote":{"text":"","author":"","authorSocialUrl":"","date":""},"header":"Traditional farewell meal","text":"<ul>\n<li>Say goodbye to the enchanted Gal\u00e1pagos Islands <strong>catch a flight back to the mainland<\/strong><\/li>\n<li>Gather with your group for <strong>a farewell dinner at a cozy and traditional Ecuadorian restaurant<\/strong> to celebrate the end of an extraordinary adventure<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","snapshot":"Flight to Quito | Farewell dinner","images":["https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/EC1_ItineraryDay92.jpg"],"day":8},{"local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-snapshot":"Depart from Quito Airport (UIO) ","local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-header":"Depart from Quito","local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-text":"<ul>\n<li>After breakfast, <strong>make your own way to the airport for your onward flight;<\/strong> your Pack Leader will be on hand to help you arrange a taxi<\/li>\n<li><strong>Arrive home feeling awed by your one-of-a-kind Ecuador adventure;<\/strong> you\u2019ve witnessed some of the world\u2019s most incredible wildlife alongside a whole new group of friends<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","campaign_id":"","trip_highlight":false,"trip_highlight_strapline":"","quote":{"text":"","author":"","authorSocialUrl":"","date":""},"header":"Depart from Quito","text":"<ul>\n<li>After breakfast, <strong>make your own way to the airport for your onward flight;<\/strong> your Pack Leader will be on hand to help you arrange a taxi<\/li>\n<li><strong>Arrive home feeling awed by your one-of-a-kind Ecuador adventure;<\/strong> you\u2019ve witnessed some of the world\u2019s most incredible wildlife alongside a whole new group of friends<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","snapshot":"Depart from Quito Airport (UIO) ","images":["https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/EC1_ItineraryDay8.jpg"],"day":9}],"alternative_itinerary":null,"theme":"Sky","gallery_uris":["https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/EC1_GALLERY2.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/EC1_Thumb.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/EC1_GALLER3.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/EC1_GALLERY4.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/EC1_Gallery0009.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/EC1_GALLERY5.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/EC1_ItineraryDay73.1.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/EC1_ItineraryDay11.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/EC1_Gallery00005.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/EC1_Gallery000.jpg"],"trip_highlights":[{"title":"Enjoy a candlelit meal in an underground lava tube restaurant","picture":{"desktop":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/EC1_HIGHLIGHT_CAVE1-536x536.jpg","mobile":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/EC1_HIGHLIGHT_CAVE1-242x242.jpg"},"image":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/EC1_ItineraryDay33.jpg","day":3},{"title":"Stay in a giant tortoise reserve in Santa Cruz\u2019s verdant highlands","picture":{"desktop":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/EC1_HIGHLIGHT_MAGIC-536x536.jpg","mobile":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/EC1_HIGHLIGHT_MAGIC-242x242.jpg"},"image":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/EC1_ItineraryDay42.jpg","day":4},{"title":"Swim next to white-tipped reef sharks & Gal\u00e1pagos penguin","picture":{"desktop":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/EC1_HIGHLIGHT_SHARK1-536x536.jpg","mobile":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/EC1_HIGHLIGHT_SHARK1-242x242.jpg"},"image":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/EC1_ItineraryDay60.jpg","day":6}],"included_highlights":[{"day":"6","description":"Swim next to white-tipped reef sharks & Gal\u00e1pagos penguins","tag":"iconic-moment","image":{"link":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/us\/adventure-trips\/discover-natures-wildest-frontier-in-the-galapagos\/attachment\/ec1_highlight_shark1\/"},"link_to_accommodation":false},{"day":"3","description":"Enjoy a candlelit meal in an underground lava tube restaurant","tag":"foodie-focus","image":{"link":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/us\/adventure-trips\/discover-natures-wildest-frontier-in-the-galapagos\/attachment\/ec1_itineraryday32\/"},"link_to_accommodation":false},{"day":"3","description":"Stay in a giant tortoise reserve in Santa Cruz\u2019s verdant highlands","tag":"stand-out-stay","image":{"link":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/us\/adventure-trips\/discover-natures-wildest-frontier-in-the-galapagos\/attachment\/ec1_highlightstay-2\/"},"link_to_accommodation":true},{"day":"5","description":"Take a motor yacht to the more remote islands with an expert naturalist and enjoy lunch on board","tag":"iconic-moment","image":{"link":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/us\/adventure-trips\/discover-natures-wildest-frontier-in-the-galapagos\/attachment\/ec1_higloghtyacht-2\/"},"link_to_accommodation":false},{"day":"7","description":"Hike the mighty Sierra Negra volcano, 1,000 metres above sea level","tag":"iconic-moment","image":{"link":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/us\/adventure-trips\/discover-natures-wildest-frontier-in-the-galapagos\/attachment\/ec1_highlighthike-2\/"},"link_to_accommodation":false}],"included":["All activities shown in the itinerary, Gal\u00e1pagos National Park entrance fees & Gal\u00e1pagos Transit Control Card","Stay in hand-picked 3-4 star hotels including a camp in a giant tortoise reserve","Shared twin room (Single rooms available)","8 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 4 dinners including dinner at an underground lava tube restaurant","2x domestic flights, private mini bus & boat","Arrival airport transfer","Experienced, local Pack Leader throughout","Max. 16 people per trip","Everyone at a similar life stage","90% travel solo, 80% stay in touch"],"videos":[{"source":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/EcuadorGalapagos_Website-Header_1280x720_V2.mp4","codec":"mp4"}],"faqs":[{"question":"Are flights included?","answer":"Flights to and from your destination aren\u2019t included in the trip price \u2014 you\u2019ll need to book these independently. Any flights needed during the tour itself are included and taken care of by us. You\u2019ll find recommended arrival and departure airports, along with suggested arrival and departure times, in the FAQs below.\n"},{"question":"Which airport do I need to fly in and out of? Plus airport code","answer":"Fly into and out of Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) in Quito.\n"},{"question":"What time should my flight arrive (in time for the welcome meeting)?","answer":"We suggest that you arrive in Quito before 2 pm on Day 1.\n"},{"question":"What time should my flight depart on the last day? ","answer":"There are no activities planned for the last day, so leave any time you wish. The airport is approximately 45 minutes away from your final hotel. Your Pack Leader can help you book transfers the night before if needed.\n"},{"question":"Are airport transfers included? ","answer":"If you arrive on Day 1 of your adventure, or you\u2019ve booked yourself a pre-night at the same hotel the adventure starts from, your airport arrival transfer will be included. Arrival transfers are private to Flash Pack and in groups depending on flight times, so you may have to wait in the airport for a short while.\nHowever, if you\u2019ve booked alternative pre-trip accommodation or are arriving by another mode of transport, you\u2019ll have to arrange your own arrival transfer.\u00a0\nPlease also note: in order to secure your place on the private transfer, you\u2019ll need to provide your flight details to our Customer Experience team no later than 30 days prior to your adventure\u2019s departure date. You\u2019ll get automated email reminders about this, but the team won\u2019t be chasing you. That\u2019s why it\u2019s key to get this information over in good time. If the details are provided later than 30 days pre-departure, you\u2019ll have to arrange your own arrival transfer.\nDeparture transfers are typically not included due to travelers leaving at varying times. That said, your Pack Leader will happily help arrange departure transfers for you if required.\n"},{"question":"Are tips included? ","answer":"Please note that tips are not included in the cost of this adventure. Suggested amounts per person are:\n\nPack Leader: 10 USD per day\nDrivers: 5 USD per day\nNaturalist guides on the Gal\u00e1pagos Islands: 10 USD per day\nGal\u00e1pagos boat captain: 2 USD per day\n\nSome Pack Leaders will collect a kitty at the welcome meeting to take care of local tips.\u00a0However, all tips are at your discretion depending on what you feel comfortable with.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n"},{"question":"Are park entry fees included? ","answer":"All non-resident foreign tourists to the Gal\u00e1pagos Islands pay 100 USD on arrival to help fund community and conservation work. This fee is included in the cost of your trip.\nThe Transit Control Card (TCT) is also included in the cost of your trip and will be bought by your Pack Leader upon arrival at Quito airport.\n"},{"question":"Do I need a visa? ","answer":"Up-to-date visa and entry information can be found using our official partner, Sherpa, who can help you arrange a visa if needed.\nYou can also find essential travel advice \u2013 including security and local laws, as well as passport and visa information \u2013 on the government website of your home country:\n\nUK residents: review the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice before your adventure.\nUS residents: consult the US Department of State Travel Advice for important travel information.\nAustralian residents: check the Smart Traveler website for up-to-date travel advice.\nResidents of other countries: refer to the travel advice provided by your own government or local consulate.\n\nPlease be aware that passport and visa requirements can change before departure, so it\u2019s important to stay updated with the latest information.\n"},{"question":"What vaccinations and medication will I need for this trip? ","answer":"While we are not medical professionals and cannot offer personalized medical advice, we want to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable adventure. Here are some tips to help you prepare.\n1. Consult with a healthcare professional\nWe recommend scheduling an appointment with your travel nurse or doctor at least eight weeks before your adventure. This will give you ample time to receive any necessary vaccines or medications.\n2. Up-to-date medical advice\n\nUK residents: visit the NHS Fit For Travel website for the latest medical advice.\nUS residents: check the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for specialized health information.\nAustralian residents: refer to the Smart Traveler Health website for current medical advice.\n\n3. Government travel advice\n\nUK residents: review the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice before your adventure.\nUS residents: consult the US Department of State Travel Advice for important travel information.\nAustralian residents: check the Smart Traveler website for up-to-date travel advice.\n\n4. Medication tips\nIf you take prescription medication, ensure you bring enough to last the entire adventure, plus a few extra days in case of travel delays.\u00a0Carry a copy of your prescription with you in case you need to visit a clinic while abroad.\nWe hope this information will help you prepare for a safe and healthy adventure.\n"},{"question":"What fitness levels do I need for this trip? ","answer":"We recommend having a read through of the itinerary above, and getting in touch if you have specific questions on fitness.\nOverall, this trip is moderately active with a 1.5-hour hike up the Sierra Negra volcano, as well as some shorter hikes, an easy downhill mountain bike ride and activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding.\nGood footwear, such as hiking boots or lightweight runners, is essential for the volcano hike as the terrain is rocky and uneven. We also recommend bringing waterproof sandals for wet landings on the islands.\n"},{"question":"Do I need to be able to swim? ","answer":"This trip involves several water-based activities including snorkeling, kayaking and paddleboarding. If you\u2019re not comfortable with water, there\u2019s no obligation to take part and you can relax on terra firma.\n"},{"question":"Are there any luggage restrictions for the Gal\u00e1pagos flight? ","answer":"Your luggage allowance for your the Gal\u00e1pagos islands is 23 kg in the hold and 8 kg hand luggage. This applies to both the flight and the internal boat transfers.\nTo protect the vulnerable and unique habitats and wildlife on the Gal\u00e1pagos Islands, visitors are not allowed to bring any plant materials or unprocessed food products. Small quantities of pre-wrapped items, such as chocolate bars, are fine.\nLuggage is checked at the airport and you\u2019ll be asked to fill out a form and given an approval label to attach to your bags.\n"},{"question":"What is the accommodation like on the giant tortoise reserve? ","answer":"This is a simple but comfortable safari-style lodge in a stunning rural setting. There are six twin tents and four treehouses, which can booked as a single supplement if space allows. The lodge doesn\u2019t offer private shower facilities and there is one shower for men and one shower for women.\n"},{"question":"Will I have the same Pack Leader for the whole trip?","answer":"During this adventure, you will have two dedicated Pack Leaders. The first will guide you in Quito (Days 1-3 and Days 8-9), and the second will join you during your visit to the Gal\u00e1pagos Islands (Days 3-8). Your Quito Pack Leader will assist until you board your flight at Quito Airport, and a certified Gal\u00e1pagos guide will meet you upon arrival at Baltra Island.\n"},{"question":"Will this itinerary change? ","answer":"Please be aware that the itinerary, activities and hotels are subject to change. These changes can happen with little notice due to availability, poor weather, seasonal changes, or other circumstances beyond our control \u2013 but we\u2019ll do our best to ensure it has little impact on your adventure. From time to time we may also make changes to your itinerary to try out new ideas and keep things fresh and exciting.\n"}],"hotels":[{"name":"Casona de la Ronda, Quito","short_description":"","description":"Experience a taste of historical Ecuador in this elegant Old Town hotel. The characterful 18th-century townhouse is full of period features, from thick stone walls and chunky beams to shuttered windows and an elegant plant-draped atrium, creating a sanctuary of inner-city calm.\n","image_url":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/EC1_StayEcuador.jpg","is_alternative":false},{"name":"Magic Gal\u00e1pagos, Santa Cruz","short_description":"Highland campsite with doorstep access to incredible wildlife ","description":"High up in the wilderness of Santa Cruz\u2019s highlands, these raised safari tents and elevated tree houses have gorgeous ocean views. Waking up surrounded by nature, you\u2019ll share your 40-hectare private reserve with hundreds of giant tortoises who call the island home. \n","image_url":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/EC1_StayMagic1.jpg","is_alternative":false},{"name":"Iguana Crossing, Isabela","short_description":"","description":"In a dreamy location, between a pristine beach and a natural lagoon, this cutting-edge design hotel has an upscale Miami vibe. Appearing like a mirage out of Isabela\u2019s volcanic landscape, there\u2019s a huge rooftop terrace, sleek pool and hot tub \u2013 perfect for sunset cocktails.\u00a0\n","image_url":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/EC1_StayIguana.jpg","is_alternative":false}],"wellness_rooms":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/trip\/62976","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/trip"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/trip"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/130720"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=62976"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}