Ecuador's mainland climate varies according to altitude. The highlands are drier from June to September and are at their best from July to August with clearer skies caused by higher winds.The jungle has rain all year round but the wettest months are from April to June. The coast is especially hot, humid and wet from January to April.
The Galapagos climate is influenced by ocean currents. It is most popular to visit from December to May as the seas tend to be calmer, warmer for snorkelling, the sun shines and it is generally very hot with sudden showers. The temperature drops from June to November as the Humboldt current reaches up from the south bringing much richer seas and an increase in wildlife activity. However in August and September the sea and land temperatures drop, it is often cloudy and the sea is especially choppy (when many boats put in to dry dock).
Tour Overview
A unique view of the Galapagos Islands Staying in a collection of carefully-selected hotels on different Galapagos Islands, you'll enjoy exciting day trips to see the unique flora and fauna. Snorkel with sea lions, walk with blue-footed boobies and meet giant tortoises, before relaxing with a sunset cocktail at your hotel with a view.
Enriching tailormade journeys – for you This bespoke journey features some of our favourite spots in the Galapagos. You can choose to take our destination experts’ recommendations and travel just as you see the itinerary here, or contact us to add your own special touches; maybe optional kayaking or surfing to complete your Galapagos adventure. We’re here to design your perfect holiday. Call us on 0844 875 1890.
Details may vary depending on departure date. Please choose
Depart UK and arrive in Guayaquil later the same day.
Overnight Authentic Level Hotel
in Hotel CityPlaza
Hotel CityPlaza
Hotel CityPlaza is centrally located in the heart of Guayaquil, and is a modern and functional base for your stay in the city. Rooms are air-conditioned with a mini-bar, TV, telephone and safe. The restaurant and café is a nice place to unwind with a drink and choice of cuisine.
2
Quito, fly to the Galapagos
Your flight arrives from Guayaquil into Baltra Island where you are met and escorted to your hotel. Transfer to Puerto Ayora harbour, Santa Cruz, and on to Isabela.
Overnight Authentic Level Hotel
in La Gran Tortuga Included meals: Breakfast
La Gran Tortuga
La Gran Tortuga is a small a property in Puerto Villamil, with only 12 rooms. There’s a garden, plus barbecue and picnic area. La Gran Tortuga is only a few metres from a beach and rooms are en-suite, air-conditioned and with a TV.
3
Explore Isabela
Full day tour to the Sierra Negra Volcano, the world’s second largest volcanic crater, which is almost 10 km in diameter. This afternoon snorkel around the small islands of Tintoreras.
Overnight Authentic Level Hotel
in La Gran Tortuga Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch
4
Swim with sea lions
Travel to Santa Cruz. Snorkel with sea lions at Academy Bay, and encounter blue footed boobies perched on cliff ledges. You can also climb to a viewpoint to observe white-tipped reef sharks and marine iguanas; perfect for photography.
Overnight Authentic Level Hotel
in La Peregrina Included meals: Breakfast
La Peregrina
A small bed and breakfast accommodation, La Peregrina has only 10 rooms with air-conditioning and en-suite facilities. The garden has hammocks, so you can relax to the tune of finches, mocking birds and cuckoos.
5
Bartholomew, Plazas or North Seymour Islands
Bartholomew Island is home to one of the most iconic sites of the Galapagos, Pinnacle Rock, which has colourful volcanic formations. You can walk to its peak or snorkel on the beach during your visit; Bartholomew is home to Galapagos penguins and white-tip reef sharks. Alternative visits are to Plazas Islands or North Seymour today.
Overnight Authentic Level Hotel
in La Peregrina Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch
6
Giant tortoises and lava tunnels
Encounter giant tortoises and then go to a lava tunnel; a great way to learn more about the geology of the island. Take the ferry to San Cristobal Island, where you can walk amid the many sea lions that make the beach their own.
Overnight Authentic Level Hotel
in Casa de Jeimy Included meals: Breakfast
Casa de Jeimy
Named after the owners’ only daughter, this family-run hotel is centrally located in San Cristobal; it opened for business in 2011. This cosy guesthouse has a living room, terrace and comfortable bedrooms with en-suite facilities.
7
Snorkelling and swimming
Take a 30-minute boat ride to Isla Lobos; you can observe frigate birds and blue footed boobies, plus snorkel and swim with playful sea lions, observe rays and turtles. Afterwards visit Kicker Rock, home to many bird species. The waters surrounding Kicker Rock harbour Galapagos, hammerhead, and white-tipped reef sharks. Enjoy lunch, and a swim, on a beautiful white coral beach.
Overnight Authentic Level Hotel
in Casa de Jeimy Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch
8
Fly to the UK
Transfer to the airport for your flight to the UK.