Paired Solo Option

8 Day Inspiring Galapagos Islands Small Group Tour

You will be accompanied by various multi-lingual local guides during the tour, who will be responsible for guiding you through the various cities and attractions that you will be visiting. In each new city that you visit, you will likely be introduced to a new local guide who is an expert in that region. Depending on the itinerary chosen and your group size, your local guide may provide commentary in multiple languages.

Escorted Type
Fully Escorted by Local Guides

This tour is categorised as 3 out of 5

 

Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.

 

As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.

Pace
Balanced

Minimum: 4 people
Maximum: 16 people

Group Size
4-16

Take advantage of our 7 day cooling-off period. 

Cooling Off Period
7 Days

✓ Small group tour, up to 16 guests only
✓ Incredible sightseeing including Santa Cruz  - observe the giant tortoise roaming in a natural habitat
✓ Explore the island trails and coastlines, keeping an eye out for endemic species such as marine iguanas, endemic penguins and schools of reef sharks. 
✓ Swim and snorkel in Kicker Rock, easily the most renowned destination for marine wildlife in the Galapagos
✓  Hand-picked 4 & 3-star accommodation
Airport transfers included on the first day of your tour

✓ Breakfast daily & 2 lunches
Fully escorted by a professional English-speaking naturalist guide
✓ Comfortable, dedicated transportation throughout
✓ Economy Airfare Guayaquil to Galapagos Islands to Quito

✈ Needing international airfares to accompany your Inspiring Vacation? You will be able to access our flight portal after securing your package to add international airfares to your booking.

🛏️ Shared room available for solo passengers. This tour offers solo passengers the option to share a room with a fellow passenger of the same gender and avoid the Single Traveller supplement.

What we love about this tour

Experience an unforgettable adventure in the Galápagos Islands on this 8 Day adventure: walk among giant tortoises on Santa Cruz, trek through trails teeming with marine iguanas and penguins. Snorkel alongside reef sharks in one of the planet’s most pristine ecosystems, as you explore a unique wildlife paradise unlike any other.

Itinerary

Hotel
Grand Hotel Guayaquil or Similar

Welcome to Ecuador and the gateway to the Galapagos! On arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel. 

This afternoon, your local guide will take you on a walking tour of Guayaquil.  You will visit Seminario Park, famously known as Iguana Park for its resident Green Iguanas. Next, explore The Integration Plaza at Guayaquil City Hall and Vulcano Forge, showcasing sculptures that unravel the Independent secret plan of the Patriots. Then, venture to the Malecon 2000 with its plazas, monuments, and gardens before delving into the historic Las Penias Neighborhood, marked by its ancient fort and wooden houses recounting tales of past pirate attacks.

This evening enjoy an evening at your leisure, or perhaps your group will want to go out for dinner together.

Inspiring Highlights

  • Seminario Park
  • Guayaquil City Hall
  • Malecon 2000
  • Las Penias Neighborhood

Special Information 
If you wish to join the complimentary city tour, please make sure your flight arrives before 3.00pm.

Arrival airport transfers are included as part of your package. You will be met upon arrival at the airport and transferred to your hotel.

If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.

If you are arriving early and have made your own arrangements prior to your tour commencing, airport transfers will not be included. However, if you are purchasing pre-nights accommodation as part of your Inspiring Vacations package, airport transfers will still be provided to the starting hotel.

Hotel
Fernandina Hotel or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

This morning you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to the Galapagos Islands (flight tickets and departure time will be advised locally on your arrival in Guayaquil). 

Your guide will pick you up from the airport and continue on to visit the Highlands of the Island where you can observe the giant tortoise roaming in a natural habitat. Make the most of great picture opportunities with this endangered species, endemic to the Galapagos before continuing to your hotel in Puerto Ayora.

Later, head to the Charles Darwin Research Station, located in Puerto Ayora. The research station plays a crucial role in the conservation and preservation of the Galápagos Islands' delicate ecosystem. Here, you'll learn about ongoing research projects, breeding programs for endangered species, and the conservation efforts to protect the islands' biodiversity. One of the main highlights of the Charles Darwin Research Station is the Giant Tortoise Breeding Center. You'll have the opportunity to see these magnificent creatures up close and learn about the conservation efforts to protect and reintroduce them to their natural habitats.  

In the afternoon you will arrive back at your hotel for an evening at leisure.

Inspiring Highlights

  • Santa Cruz Island Highlands
  • Charles Darwin Research Station
  • Giant Tortoise Breeding Center

Special Information 
Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.

Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 23kg (51lbs), and one 7kg (15 lbs) carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed. Your flight will be unescorted, however your tour guide will assist you on either end to ensure that your journey is trouble free.

Your flight documentation will be given to you on tour by your tour guide.

On your departure from Guayaquil you will say goodbye to your local guide, and your group will be met by a local guide in the Galapagos Island, who will meet and greet you, coordinate your activities in the islands and be reachable to assist you as needed. 

Please note a US$20 per person transit card is payable on departure at Guayaquil Airport. Galapagos National Park entry fee of US$200 is payable on arrival on the islands. Both payments are made in USD cash.

It's important to note that, given the remote and isolated nature of the Galapagos, there are fewer options for accommodation, and it can be challenging to provide all creature comforts. Sometimes, there may be hot water outages, and occasional blackouts can occur. While it may be less comfortable than what you might experience on the mainland of South America, the opportunity to explore this extraordinary destination makes it well worth the experience.

Hotel
Fernandina Hotel or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, you will embark on a full day tour to one of the beautiful uninhabited islands of Santa Fe, South Plaza, North Seymour or Bartolomé (subject to scheduling).  Your excursion will travel by speed boat - the trip takes approximately 2 hours each way. 

Your expert naturalist guide will introduce you to the island's unique wildlife which may include endemic species such as Galapagos penguins, land iguanas, Darwin's finches, blue-footed Boobies and many more.

You will have the opportunity to snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, discover marine life and vibrant coral reefs.

You’ll then return to Puerto Ayora by late afternoon to spend the evening relaxing.

Special Information 
Your touring today may be shared with other non Inspiring Vacations guests.

Hotel
Blue Marlin Hotel or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

After breakfast, visit Tortuga Bay.  You will take a guided walk (45 minutes each way) to take in the scenery and wildlife. Visitors can often encounter marine iguanas, Galápagos crabs, sea lions, and a variety of bird species such as pelicans and finches.

Once you reach Playa Brava, please be aware that swimming is not allowed here due to the presence of hazardous currents. For those wishing to swim, continue walking along the beach until you discover a trail leading through the mangrove forest. This path will take you to Playa Mansa, a sheltered bay where you can safely swim and relish the cool shade provided by the mangroves.

This afternoon, transfer to the pier and board a public speed-boat to San Cristobal Island (approximately 2.5 hours ride). Upon arrival, you will enjoy a walking tour in the beautiful Puerto Baquerizo to enjoy the local life.

Inspiring Highlights

  • Tortuga Bay
  • Playa Mansa

Special Information 
Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours on a public speed-boat service. Passengers are generally allowed one medium-sized piece of luggage and a small personal item (such as a day-pack), both of which must be manageable and easily storable on the boat.

Hotel
Blue Marlin Hotel or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch

This morning after breakfast you will visit one of the most iconic sites in the Galapagos Islands:  Kicker Rock or “Leon Dormido”, an amazing rock formation just 90 minutes from San Cristobal Island. This incredible landmark is a remnant of a vertical tuff cone formation with an altitude of 500 feet from the Pacific Ocean, it is considered as one of the best snorkelling sites in the Archipelago.

Erosion has given the formation its characteristic shape of a shoe (hence the name Kicker Rock) and others see a sleeping lion from above, the reason why in Spanish it is called “Leon Dormido”.

Snorkelling in the vicinity of the rock is truly an unforgettable experience! You will be able to spot marine iguanas, sea turtles, rays, Galapagos sharks, schools of colourful fish and, with some luck, hammerhead sharks. Also in the crevasses of the rock, you can encounter blue-footed boobies, masked-boobies and frigate birds.

Return to San Cristobal and your hotel for a well-deserved short resting time. In the afternoon, visit La Loberia beach, a scenic beach filled with large colonies of curious sea-lions, marine iguanas, frigate birds and more.

Spend the evening relaxing after a packed day.

Inspiring Highlights

  • Kicker Rock or Isla Lobos

Special Information 
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours. 

Your touring today may be shared with other non Inspiring Vacations guests.

Often there can be instances where visits to Kicker Rock will be restricted. For groups not able to visit Kicker Rock, a visit to Isla Lobos will be provided as an alternative. Isla Lobos is named after the numerous sea lions (lobos marinos in Spanish) that inhabit the island. You'll also have opportunities to observe a variety of bird species, including blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds, and brown pelicans. Once you arrive at Isla Lobos, your naturalist guide will lead you on guided walks through the island's unique vegetation and provide opportunities for close encounters with the wildlife. You will have time to do snorkelling with unique species and then sail to an isolated beach, to relax on its sand, or swim or do some more snorkelling. We guarantee that this experience is an incredible alternative to Kicker Rock.

Hotel
Le Parc Hotel or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

This morning visit to the Interpretation Centre, which takes you through the history and settlement of the islands. Visitors can enjoy expositions on natural history, human history and conservation. The natural history explains the different natural facts, such as the volcanic origin of the islands, the distance between the mainland, its currents, the special climate, the arrival of different species, etc. The exposition room of Human History gives a chronological overview of the discovery and colonisation of the Galapagos. 

The second section describes the reality of today's Galapagos: the problems and the struggle of several institutions and individuals to conserve Galapagos. The Center also has an outdoor theatre and a cinema.

At the appropriate time you will be picked up  and transferred to the airport in time to board your flight to the capital of Ecuador, Quito. Upon arrival, your guide will welcome you and drive to your cosy centrally located hotel. 

The rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore the surroundings.

Inspiring Highlights

  • Interpretation Centre

Special Information 
Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours. 

Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 23kg (51lbs), and one 7kg (15 lbs) carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed. Your flight will be unescorted, however your tour guide will assist you on either end to ensure that your journey is trouble free.

Your flight documentation will be given to you on tour by your tour guide.

On your departure from the Galapagos Island you will say goodbye to your local guide, and your group will be met by a local guide in Quito, who will meet and greet you, coordinate your activities in the islands and be reachable to assist you as needed.

Hotel
Le Parc Hotel or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

Today you are at leisure to enjoy the quaint city at your own pace. The Ecuadorian capital is constructed on the foundations of an ancient Incan city and is known for its well-preserved colonial centre, rich with 16th- and 17th-century churches and other structures blending European, Moorish and indigenous styles. 

Alternatively, you may wish to join an optional full day tour of this fascinating city.

Optional Tour - Quito & Middle of the World Tour

Explore Quito's famous Old Town, considered as Human Heritage Patrimony and the largest Colonial district in all of South America. Along the way you'll visit “La Compañia de Jesus” Church, surely one of the most beautiful churches in South America, and also the charming “La Ronda” Street, the most popular colonial street for centuries in the centre of the City.

Afterwards, you will head to the north of the city for about 50 minutes to the also famous "Middle of the World" with its symbolic Monument and Compound with many open-air exhibits, cultural displays, shops and typical food Restaurants. The Monument was built during the XVII century when a French expedition travelled to Ecuador to define the precise location of the Equatorial Line.

Your guide will tell you all the important aspects of the Compound and its importance to researchers and scientists around the World; you will enter the Monument where you find many displays of the Ecuadorian rich and ancient culture and human history, also visit the on-site “Inti-Ñan” Museum where you can witness and participate in active experiments that prove that you are indeed at the Centre of the Earth.

Meeting Point: Hotel
Includes: Hotel transfers, English speaking guide & entrance fees
Start Time: 08:00am
Duration: 7 hours

Meals
Breakfast

Your tour comes to an end today after breakfast.  At the appropriate time, make your own way to the airport.

Thank you for travelling with Inspiring Vacations. We hope you had a memorable experience.

Special Information

Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.

Inclusions

  • Small group tour, up to 16 guests only
  • Explore Santa Cruz, San Cristobel and other outer uninhabited islands of the Galapagos
  • 3 & 4-star accommodation
  • Airport transfers included on the first day of your tour
  • Breakfast daily & 2 lunches
  • Fully escorted by a English-speaking naturalist guide
  • Dedicated transportation throughout
  • Flights from Guayaquil to Galapagos Islands, and to Quito

  • Galapagos Islands - Kicker Rock snorkelling experience
  • Galapagos Islands - Puerto Baquerizo tour
  • Galapagos Islands - Interpretation Centre
  • Galapagos Island - Tortuga Bay guided walk

Optional tours
To enhance your journey, we are offering guests a choice of the following optional activities (prices are per person):

  • Quito & Middle of the World Tour (Day 7) - $145 per person

Optional tours can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online.

Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 70 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability and prices may vary as you will be paying in local currency. We appreciate your understanding.

Pre/post accommodation 

You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour. On this tour you can choose from the following options:

Pre Tour Accommodation

  • $111.00 per room, per night for double and twin share
  • $111.00 per room, per night for solo travellers

Post Tour Accommodation

  • $89.00 per room, per night for double and twin share
  • $89.00 per room, per night for solo travellers

Please select the number of extra nights required in the 'Additional Nights Accommodation' field when making your purchase. The additional cost for these arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.

Upgrades 
Not available  

Airport Transfers 
Some of our packages will include airport transfers in either one or both directions when arriving or departing from your destination. To know if transfers are included please view the ‘inclusions’ section of your selected package. If airport transfers are stated, transfers will be included as advised.

If transfers are not included, we also offer the option to book your airport transfers using our online portal. Access to this portal is available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed. Transfers are readily available and do not need to be booked until your final hotel list has been confirmed. Once you have made a transfer booking, please refer to your confirmation email for all transfer details including a local contact number for the transfer company.

If you book pre and/or post-tour accommodation on your arrangement, and the tour includes transfers, note that these will be forfeited. The transfers are only provided in line with the tour dates and pre and/or post-tour accommodation purchased through Inspiring Vacations when available.

Bedding Configuration
Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, but we can not guarantee your request will be available at all properties.

Single travellers
When booking this tour, solo travellers will be presented with two options:

1 - Single Supplement
By paying an additional $495.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price, you guarantee the privacy of your room throughout the entire tour.

Please note when choosing Single Supplement for this tour, your room will generally consist of a double or semi-double bed. Occasionally there may be a hotel that will provide a single bedded room for single travellers. 

2- Shared Room with a known friend
If travelling together with a friend, you can opt to share your room with him/her and avoid paying a single supplement. 

You and your friend can create a unique booking each. Creating a unique booking, gives each of you the flexibility of making different travel arrangements (such as adding extra accommodation, flights, etc), making separate payments and having individual access to our Traveller Hub

During the purchase path, you will need to provide your friend’s booking ID (if known) or at a minimum, your friend’s full name.

3- Shared Room with a fellow traveller
In this tour you can opt to share a room with a fellow traveller of the same gender – as specified in your passport - and avoid paying a single supplement.

If you believe you may prevent your travelling companion from enjoying a peaceful night’s rest, please refrain from selecting this option.

You will meet your rooming companion at the beginning of your tour. 

Changes to room configuration during the tour must be organised by travellers directly with the hotel, subject to availability and additional charges.

This option is not available on additional accommodation booked before or after

Triple Share
Not available

Child Policy
Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.

Payment Information 
This product requires a $99 deposit per person and full payment within 48 hours to secure your booking.

Once you have created your booking you will be directed to your invoice to choose your preferred payment method.

Cooling Off Period
A refund will be available within the 7-day cooling-off period unless otherwise restricted by the purchased product. 

Where 'last minute' bookings are available within 71 days of departure, the cooling-off period does not apply and bookings are immediately non-refundable.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Please review our terms and conditions here: https://www.inspiringvacations.com/au/page/terms-and-conditions 

Fine Print

Tour Suitability

  • It's important to note that, given the remote and isolated nature of the Galapagos, there are fewer options for accommodation, and it can be challenging to provide all creature comforts. Sometimes, there may be hot water outages, and occasional blackouts can occur. While it may be less comfortable than what you might experience on the mainland of South America, the opportunity to explore this extraordinary destination makes it well worth the experience.
  • Many of our tours are the combination of several smaller journeys. You may join a group where some travellers have already been together prior to your arrival, or some of your fellow passengers may be travelling onwards when your tour comes to a finish. There may also be instances during your trip when some passengers depart and new ones join. If you'd like more information on alternative tour options or extensions, please feel free to contact us.
  • This tour includes travel by speedboat between the different Galapagos Islands. These boat rides can cause seasickness, but it is treatable with medication. From June to August, the waters around the Galapagos tend to be rougher, leading to longer travel times. Please consult a health professional to determine if this medication is suitable for you.
  • Internet access can be inconsistent, and Wi-Fi is not always available or reliable. However, there are plenty of attractions on the islands to keep you engaged and entertained.
  • This tour finishes in Quito, which sits at 2,850 metres above sea level. When in high-altitude regions, please note that altitude sickness can impact anyone, no matter their age, gender, or fitness. It's important that you discuss this itinerary and your travel plans with your doctor beforehand. While on tour, safety is paramount and it’s important that you discuss any altitude sickness symptoms with your local guide, so that appropriate medical attention can be provided. Follow this link for more helpful information on altitude sickness.

Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Please refer to your final documentation which will be provided approximately 14-30 days before departure for your confirmed hotel list.

Visas & Entry Requirements
Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your tour and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your tour. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the visa entry requirements for your nationality via our page here: 

https://inspiringvacations-8357211.hs-sites.com/visa-information 

You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date.
We need your passport information to get everything ready for your tour so the information on your booking must match your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends.

Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is strongly recommended on all our tours. We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. It is also important to consider forced pre-tour cancellations and how your chosen insurance policy may cover such circumstances, so please keep this in mind when choosing your provider. 

We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international tours, you will be asked by your tour leader for your travel insurance details if they were not already added to your Traveller Hub account pre-departure.

If you have credit card insurance your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide may require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number, and emergency contact number rather than the bank's name and your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details before arriving in-country.

Before you depart, you will be asked to submit your Travel Insurance details through the booking holder's Traveller Hub account through the Inspiring Vacations website. This is to ensure that we have this information readily available should we ever need it. 

Health & Wellness
All travellers need to be in good physical health to participate fully on this tour. Our group tours are designed to immerse you in incredible sights and activities, often involving walking tours and self-exploration. To ensure you can fully embrace every moment, we recommend a moderate level of fitness for all of our tours. 

When selecting your tour please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to manage and enjoy our style of travel. Please note that in the assessment of our Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader or local representative a traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a tour without refund.

You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements in their original packaging as they may not easily be obtained while travelling. If you are carrying medication, ensure you check your government's foreign travel advice for any local restrictions or requirements. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell before travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements and we would be more than happy to assist you.

Important Information for Customers with Mobility Limitations
We want to ensure everyone has a fantastic and inclusive experience on our tours. If you require the use of a mobility aid, such as a cane, walker, or wheelchair, please disclose this information at the time of booking.

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for the entire group, our tours are designed with a specific itinerary in mind. This may involve moderate walking, uneven terrain, or stairs. While some itinerary adjustments may not be possible, we'll do our best to find alternative solutions within the planned activities whenever possible.

Open communication helps us ensure your tour is a perfect fit and it allows your local guide or tour leader to assist you where possible. 

Information for CPAP Users
If you use a CPAP machine, please let us know at the time of booking. Some portions of our itinerary, like overnight cruises or camping tours, may have limited access to power outlets. In such cases, we recommend travelling with portable battery packs. 

Certain activities, like overnight journeys on board smaller vessels, may not be suitable for CPAP use due to space limitations or noise concerns. We can discuss these potential limitations upfront and help you make informed decisions about your tour.

Please ensure that you check the voltage used throughout the countries you are travelling to and if it will be compatible with your machines. For example, Japan runs on 100 volts vs Australia at 220-240 volts, meaning a voltage converter might be required.

Documentation  
Tour documentation is typically emailed to the lead passenger or your travel agent between 14-30 days before your scheduled departure. This will include your final hotel list. 

Official Travel Advice 
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, we recommend referring to the official travel advisory website of your home country for the latest updates on your chosen destination. These websites provide valuable information on:

  • Safety and Security: Current risks and precautions for the country you'll be visiting.
  • Visa Requirements: Ensure you have all the necessary documentation for entry.
  • Entry and Exit: Up-to-date border regulations and health requirements.

Here are some helpful links to get you started:

In the unlikely event of a situation that could potentially disrupt your tour, we want to assure you of the following:

  • Local Expertise: We maintain regular communication with our trusted travel partners in your destination.
  • Constant Monitoring: We continuously monitor official travel advisories from relevant government websites.
  • Flexibility and Safety: Should it become necessary, we will make appropriate adjustments to your itinerary to prioritise your health and safety.

By staying informed and working together, we can ensure a fantastic travel experience for you. We will post our own travel updates to our website here.

Connect with fellow travellers on Facebook
During your booking journey, you might have received an email inviting you to join a special Facebook group dedicated to your chosen destination. These vibrant online communities are exclusively for Inspiring Vacations travellers headed to the same incredible place. Joining this group unlocks a wealth of information and connections. Swap travel tips, share packing insights, or even see if anyone's interested in travelling together. 

We also regularly host insightful webinars featuring travel experts who share their tips and tricks for navigating your destination and maximising your itinerary. Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity to connect, learn, and get even more excited about your upcoming tour!

Tour Suitability

  • It's important to note that, given the remote and isolated nature of the Galapagos, there are fewer options for accommodation, and it can be challenging to provide all creature comforts. Sometimes, there may be hot water outages, and occasional blackouts can occur. While it may be less comfortable than what you might experience on the mainland of South America, the opportunity to explore this extraordinary destination makes it well worth the experience.
  • Many of our tours are the combination of several smaller journeys. You may join a group where some travelers have already been together prior to your arrival, or some of your fellow passengers may be traveling onwards when your tour comes to a finish. There may also be instances during your trip when some passengers depart and new ones join. If you'd like more information on alternative tour options or extensions, please feel free to contact us.
  • This tour includes travel by speedboat between the different Galapagos Islands. These boat rides can cause seasickness, but it is treatable with medication. From June to August, the waters around the Galapagos tend to be rougher, leading to longer travel times. Please consult a health professional to determine if this medication is suitable for you.
  • Internet access can be inconsistent, and Wi-Fi is not always available or reliable. However, there are plenty of attractions on the islands to keep you engaged and entertained.
  • This tour finishes in Quito, which sits at 2,850 meters above sea level. When in high-altitude regions, please note that altitude sickness can impact anyone, no matter their age, gender, or fitness. It's important that you discuss this itinerary and your travel plans with your doctor beforehand. While on tour, safety is paramount and it’s important that you discuss any altitude sickness symptoms with your local guide, so that appropriate medical attention can be provided. Follow this link for more helpful information on altitude sickness.

Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Please refer to your final documentation which will be provided approximately 14-30 days before departure for your confirmed hotel list.

Visas & Entry Requirements
Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your tour and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your tour. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the visa entry requirements for your nationality via our page here: 

https://inspiringvacations-8357211.hs-sites.com/visa-information 

You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date.
We need your passport information to get everything ready for your tour so the information on your booking must match your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while traveling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends.

Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is strongly recommended on all our tours. We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. It is also important to consider forced pre-tour cancellations and how your chosen insurance policy may cover such circumstances, so please keep this in mind when choosing your provider. 

We strongly recommend all travelers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international tours, you will be asked by your tour leader for your travel insurance details if they were not already added to your Traveller Hub account pre-departure.

If you have credit card insurance your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide may require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number, and emergency contact number rather than the bank's name and your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details before arriving in-country.

Before you depart, you will be asked to submit your Travel Insurance details through the booking holder's Traveller Hub account through the Inspiring Vacations website. This is to ensure that we have this information readily available should we ever need it. 

Health & Wellness
All travelers need to be in good physical health to participate fully on this tour. Our group tours are designed to immerse you in incredible sights and activities, often involving walking tours and self-exploration. To ensure you can fully embrace every moment, we recommend a moderate level of fitness for all of our tours. 

When selecting your tour please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to manage and enjoy our style of travel. Please note that in the assessment of our Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader or local representative a traveler is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a tour without refund.

You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements in their original packaging as they may not easily be obtained while traveling. If you are carrying medication, ensure you check your government's foreign travel advice for any local restrictions or requirements. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell before traveling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements and we would be more than happy to assist you.

Important Information for Customers with Mobility Limitations
We want to ensure everyone has a fantastic and inclusive experience on our tours. If you require the use of a mobility aid, such as a cane, walker, or wheelchair, please disclose this information at the time of booking.

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for the entire group, our tours are designed with a specific itinerary in mind. This may involve moderate walking, uneven terrain, or stairs. While some itinerary adjustments may not be possible, we'll do our best to find alternative solutions within the planned activities whenever possible.

Open communication helps us ensure your tour is a perfect fit and it allows your local guide or tour leader to assist you where possible. 

Information for CPAP Users
If you use a CPAP machine, please let us know at the time of booking. Some portions of our itinerary, like overnight cruises or camping tours, may have limited access to power outlets. In such cases, we recommend traveling with portable battery packs. 

Certain activities, like overnight journeys on board smaller vessels, may not be suitable for CPAP use due to space limitations or noise concerns. We can discuss these potential limitations upfront and help you make informed decisions about your tour.

Please ensure that you check the voltage used throughout the countries you are traveling to and if it will be compatible with your machines. For example, Japan runs on 100 volts vs Australia at 220-240 volts, meaning a voltage converter might be required.

Documentation
Tour documentation is typically emailed to the lead passenger or your travel agent between 14-30 days before your scheduled departure. This will include your final hotel list. 

Official Travel Advice
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, we recommend referring to the official travel advisory website of your home country for the latest updates on your chosen destination. These websites provide valuable inform