- March 18 – 21, 2023
- April 4 – 7, 2023
- October 24 – 27, 2023
- November 14 – 17, 2023
- November 22 – 25, 2023
About the Experience
Experience the Galápagos from a front row seat–in the cockpit of a kayak! This itinerary allows for a very intimate discovery of the islands. Whether you are paddling or dog-paddling in the company of green sea turtles and playful sea lions, the sights above and below the water are unmatched.
We’ll camp for two nights on Manglecito Beach underneath the constellations–the Southern Cross is rarely visible from the Northern Hemisphere. On the equator, on a clear night, we’ll be able to see the Dipper and the Cross glitter above.
On this active adventure, we’ll stretch our legs on challenging hikes up Frigatebird Hill and the massive rim of calderas like Volcan Sierra. We’ll snorkel in the shadows of the ‘sleeping lion’ (León Dormido–also known as the iconic Kicker Rock) and sneak through lava tunnels in hopes of spotting an elusive barn owl.
Of course we’ll check off all the endemics and Island faves: the blue-footed and masked boobies, frigatebirds, prehistoric marine iguanas, lava herons, giant tortoises and curious penguins.
We’ll poke around biodiverse tidal pools, swim in Tortuga Bay, paddle deep into the mangroves and walk along powder-white beaches. A visit to Isabela’s Tortoise Breeding Center and a wild tortoise sanctuary on Santa Cruz is always a giant-sized highlight.
If you want to deep-dive into the marvels of the Galápagos, this trip offers all the feels: underwater caves, active volcanoes, countless boobies, eagle rays, sun rays, sea stars and the pin-prick of stars in the canopy overhead. There have been rumours about prickly pear margaritas too!
About the Experience
Experience the Galápagos from a front row seat–in the cockpit of a kayak! This itinerary allows for a very intimate discovery of the islands. Whether you are paddling or dog-paddling in the company of green sea turtles and playful sea lions, the sights above and below the water are unmatched.
We’ll camp for two nights on Manglecito Beach underneath the constellations–the Southern Cross is rarely visible from the Northern Hemisphere. On the equator, on a clear night, we’ll be able to see the Dipper and the Cross glitter above.
On this active adventure, we’ll stretch our legs on challenging hikes up Frigatebird Hill and the massive rim of calderas like Volcan Sierra. We’ll snorkel in the shadows of the ‘sleeping lion’ (León Dormido–also known as the iconic Kicker Rock) and sneak through lava tunnels in hopes of spotting an elusive barn owl.
Of course we’ll check off all the endemics and Island faves: the blue-footed and masked boobies, frigatebirds, prehistoric marine iguanas, lava herons, giant tortoises and curious penguins.
We’ll poke around biodiverse tidal pools, swim in Tortuga Bay, paddle deep into the mangroves and walk along powder-white beaches. A visit to Isabela’s Tortoise Breeding Center and a wild tortoise sanctuary on Santa Cruz is always a giant-sized highlight.
If you want to deep-dive into the marvels of the Galápagos, this trip offers all the feels: underwater caves, active volcanoes, countless boobies, eagle rays, sun rays, sea stars and the pin-prick of stars in the canopy overhead. There have been rumours about prickly pear margaritas too!
DAY ONE: ARRIVAL
This adventure includes a convenient one night pre-trip stay at the Wyndham Quito Airport hotel. As most North American-based flights arrive late in the evening, this will allow you time to reset and refresh for the next day’s early departure to the Islands.
Meals Included: None
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Wyndham Quito Airport Hotel
DAY 2: INTO THE GALÁPAGOS
Meet in the domestic terminal within the Quito Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) for domestic flight(s) to the capital of the province of Galápagos, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno (SCY) on San Cristobal Island, Galápagos. Your Wild Women guide will be waiting for you at the airport in San Cristobal.
On arrival, we will take a shuttle to a local restaurant for lunch and get into the Galápagos groove! We’ll have an orientation about what to expect for the coming days before taking a boat to Manglecito Beach. We’ll be spending two nights here immersed in nature with the constellations above and a lapping wave soundtrack to lull us to sleep. Before that, we’ll have a thorough introduction to kayaking in the sheltered indigo bay by our campsite. Get familiarized with the kayaks in this fun and interactive session that will cover correct techniques and essential safety procedures. Expect to paddle 6 nautical miles!
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Manglecito Beach Camping Island, San Cristobal
Distance Paddled: 6 nautical miles (nm)
DAY THREE: KICKER ROCK
Our day will begin with a 3 to 4-hour tandem kayaking session (around 6 nautical miles) as we paddle along the dramatic coast towards Puerto Grande camp.
Once we arrive and have had some time to poke around the shoreline of Puerto Grande’s porcelain-white sand beach, we’ll take a boat ride towards Kicker Rock–it’s also known as León Dormido for its sleeping lion resemblance. This iconic rock formation is actually the eroded remnants of a volcanic tuff cone and is a popular perch for blue-footed and masked boobies and frigate birds. On the shore, barking or basking sea lions can often be observed.
We’ll take full advantage of the biodiversity here and check out the underwater world with a snorkeling excursion. Galápagos and white-tipped reef sharks are found in this area–sometimes hammerheads too! Be on high alert for the elegant swim-by of eagle rays, curious green sea turtles, the colourful blur of reef fish and sea stars too!
In the afternoon, we’ll return to our campsite at Manglecito to take five and swap snorkeling encounters as we absorb the buttery glow of the sunset. If clear skies permit, we might be able to see the Southern Cross. The constellation “Crux” (Cross) is composed of five shimmery stars that are rarely visible in the Northern Hemisphere. On the equator, it’s possible to see both the Big Dipper and the Cross at the exact same time!
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Manglecito Beach Camping Island, San Cristobal
Distance Paddled: 6 nautical miles (nm)
DAY FOUR: SAN CRISTOBAL ISLAND
This morning we will climb into our kayaks and paddle out to capture the antics of blue-footed boobies and brown pelicans. The vertical plunge of the boobies when they’re fishing is torpedo-like. Watching the pelicans feed is often comical as terns and gulls land on top of the pelican’s heads, waiting to poach their catch of the day.
We’ll look for sea turtles as they surreptitiously poke their heads out of the sea like periscopes to take in a breath of air. If we’re lucky, we might even witness them mating in the water. We’ll log another six nautical miles on the water before lunch!
In the afternoon, we’ll climb Cerro de las Tijeretas (Frigatebird Hill) to take in the coastal panoramas and watch the namesake seabirds—“the pirates of the seas”—as they brazenly steal food from distracted boobies. The deeply forked tails, hooked beaks and fleshy crimson red balloon sacs of the male frigatebirds give them a foreboding, otherworldly appearance.
If the group is interested in hiking further, we can make a descent into Darwin’s Bay, a coveted spot to snorkel and swim with sea turtles and playful sea lions.
The hiking trail will loop us back to the 300m-long (984 feet) horseshoe-shaped Punta Carola beach. A huge colony of sea lions and marine iguanas can be found here.
We’ll pause to take in another gorgeous Galápagos sunset as the equatorial sky fades to black behind the candy red and white lighthouse of Punta Carola.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Blue Marlin Hotel Island, San Cristobal (March 25, 2023 departure: Casa Opuntia Hotel)
Distance Paddled: 6 nautical miles (nm)
DAY FIVE: HIGHLANDS OF SANTA CRUZ
This morning we’ll board a motorboat for a 2 to 3-hour ride towards the ‘big city’ of Puerto Ayora on buzzing Santa Cruz Island. Here, we’ll visit the highlands of Santa Cruz to get up close and personal with the Galápagos giant tortoise. Several sanctuaries conserve native and endemic vegetation for the roaming centenarians.
En route, we’ll cut through an ever-changing forest of banana, mango, guava and Spanish cedar. Look for egrets–often seen perched on the rumps of cattle! Wild tortoises can be seen along the roadway too–they sometimes create traffic jams with their slo-mo crossings. Have your camera at the ready to snap a pic of the tortoise crossing caution signs!
At the sanctuary we’ll have an intimate encounter with the tortoises–especially if they are having a ‘spa day.’ They can be found submerged in muddy ponds to help combat skin parasites and to help regulate their body temperature on blistering hot days. White-cheeked pintails, herons, egrets and moorhens also like to hang around the fringes of these ponds!
After our time with the tortoises, we’ll continue to explore the incredible volcanic origins of the island by taking a short walk through a lava tunnel. If you have a phone with a flashlight, it will be helpful in navigating this passage through the hardened lava tube. Instead of a light at the end of the tunnel, we may be rewarded with a barn owl spotting! In recent years the tunnel has been home to a pair and a female who likes to purr in the inky darkness for visitors.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Ikala or similar, Santa Cruz Island
(2023 ITINERARY) DAY 6: KAYAK PUNTA ESTRADA
Academy Bay in Puerto Ayora is today’s perfect point of departure for our sea kayaking expedition. This casual two nautical mile paddle will allow us plenty of time to observe the flora and fauna we discover along the way! Blue-footed boobies, prehistoric marine iguanas and fire engine red Sally lightfoot crabs all share real estate on the rocky cliffs along the shore.
We’ll cross the crystal-clear waters to Angermeyer Point and paddle past the irresistible mangrove-fringed beach at Finch Bay. In the calm bay of Punta Estrada we’ll be able to kayak close to the tangles of mangroves and look for lava herons and Darwin’s finches.
After kayaking, we’ll give our forearms a break and enjoy a 2 to 3-hour boat ride to our hotel in Puerto Villamil on Isabela Island. In the afternoon, it’s all about chilling out in the small port village!
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Isamar Hotel
Island: Santa Cruz
Distance Paddled: 2 nautical miles (nm)
(2024 ITINERARY) DAY SIX: TORTUGA BAY BEACH
In the morning we will have a short ride to the entrance of one of the Earth’s most captivating beaches, Tortuga Bay Beach on Santa Cruz Island. We’ll walk along the shoreline in the company of sunning iguanas and possibly, flamingoes. The landscape here is a startling contrast of dunes, cacti, salt bushes, Palo Santo trees, salt flats and tangles of mangroves full of Darwin’s finches.
We’ll have time to take five, swim or wade along Tortuga Bay’s precious stretch of shoreline. Be on the look out for reef sharks, skittling Sally Lightfoot crabs, brown pelicans and marine iguanas. After our beachy interlude, it’s a 2 to 3 hour boat ride (depending on conditions) to Puerto Villamil on Isabela Island. Here, we’ll check into our beachside 4-star hotel and have an afternoon of pure leisure. The hotel’s location is close to several shops and restaurants in the small port’s village–provided you can pull yourself away from the loungers on the hotel’s deck with endless views of the sea!
Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: IsaMar Hotel, Isabela Island
DAY SEVEN: SIERRA NEGRA
The one-hour drive from Puerto Villamil to the highlands of Isabela showcases the dramatic difference in vegetation that favours the significant humidity. The weather immediately shifts with the southeast trade winds.
The lowland landscape of prickly pear and the endemic candelabra cactus that dominate the coastal areas gives way to more lush and diverse flora, including bright bursts of bromeliads and epiphytes (air plants). The path will snake us along to the rim of the Sierra Negra volcano at 1,490m (4,888 feet).
It’s most recent eruption was in 2005 and a dramatic new layer of volcanic lava lies like a black duvet over the area. Sierra Negra is still an active volcano and is the second largest caldera in the world (spanning approximately 10km or 6.5 miles). Birdlife is abundant here—finches, flycatchers and the sleek Galápagos hawk dominate cruising altitudes while agile lava lizards skittle for cover below.
Following the path from the caldera’s rim, we will encounter Volcano Chico. Its fumaroles (gas and steam vents in the earth’s crust) and some odd-looking lava formations make for an arresting visual record of the Galápagos Islands’ dynamic geological history. The numerous volcanoes and islands nearby can be marvelled at from the uppermost vantage points. We’ll learn about Aa and braid-like Pahoehoe lava, feel the volatile steam and vapour beneath our feet and witness evolution in one of the world’s most inhospitable environments.
After the Sierra Negra walk, you will have the opportunity to explore the area around our accommodations and enjoy dinner at a restaurant of your choosing.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Isamar Hotel, Isabela Island
DAY EIGHT: TUNELES AND FINADO
From Puerto Villamil, we’ll take a boat ride (1 hour) to a place traditionally accessed by fishermen (and lately tourists) known as Los Tuneles. The unusual and remarkable lava formation consists of underwater arches and caves that were produced by the drastic change in temperature when lava met the ocean water about one million years ago.
Upon entrance to the site, we’ll navigate the labyrinth of rocks and tunnels at a very slow and careful pace (by boat) in search of seabirds, eagle rays and whitetip reef sharks. Maybe seahorses! We will disembark and take a short walk along the shore to observe boobies resting on the rocks and marvel at the giant opuntia and candelabra cacti as well as red mangroves. We’ll then board the boat for a 5-minute ride to a superb snorkelling spot with water as clear as club soda for an unobstructed experience in the remarkable underwater world.
From Los Tuneles, we’ll take a 10-minute boat ride towards another snorkeling site known as El Finado. This calm, shallow inlet is surrounded by lava rocks and the knotty root system of red mangroves. We’ll swim with rays, rainbow wrasse fish and snorkel into underwater caves where whitetip reef sharks like to rest.
An al fresco lunch will be served on board before we return to town. The remainder of the afternoon is free for you to spend as you wish!
Hot tip: There is a nearby microbrewery owned by a local husband and wife called Zaroa Cerveza Artesanal that previous Wild Women have had a wild time at! You are also free range for dinner tonight…
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Isamar Hotel, Isabela Island
DAY NINE: ISABELA’S TORTOISES
Today we’ll go for a smooth-as-pudding paddle around Isabela’s beachfront and bay in search of penguins. The 30cm (12-inch) endemic species are a genuine thrill to see in the wild, whether waddling on land or swimming like Olympians beside the boat.
In the afternoon, we will visit the Tortoise Breeding Center, an initiative of the National Park for the conservation of Isabela’s tortoises. We’ll walk through the marshlands (known as humedales) and along the beautiful talcum sand beach of Puerto Villamil back to our hotel.
Tonight, we will swap stories, reflections and share laughs during our farewell dinner with our Wild Women and naturalist guide.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Isamar Hotel, Isabela Island
Distance Paddled: Ask the penguins! They will determine today’s time in the kayaks.
DAY TEN: FAREWELL
It will be a full day of travel–boats, ferries, shuttle buses and planes! Be sure to have a second cup of coffee to charge you up! First, we’ll have a 2-hour boat ride back to Puerto Ayora to catch a 40-minute transfer to the Itabaca Canal. From here, we will board a 10-minute public ferry to Baltra Island and then take a shuttle to the airport. We will fly back to Quito and transfer to our hotel (dinner at the hotel is included–so are the catnaps on the plane!).
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: San Jose Puembo Airport Hotel
DAY ELEVEN: QUITO ONWARDS
Today, we will take a 20-minute shuttle from the hotel to the airport for flights back home. Or, if you’re eager to keep your adrenaline and visuals at the max level, join us on Wild Women’s 4-day Amazon Rainforest Extension!
Meals Included: Breakfast
Other Notes: Optional 4-days extension
Additional Information
Types of Kayaks:
Sea Kayaks
Within the itinerary, San Cristobal island has the longest kayaking distances, therefore sea kayaks are used. On the Galapagos Islands these are the only kayaks imported from the United States with such sea kayaking characteristics.
Sit-On-Top Kayaks
On the other islands, sit-on-top kayaks are used because the routes are not more than 2 hours.
AMAZON RAINFOREST EXTENSION! (4 DAYS)
Want to stay on for a few extra days of adventure to explore more? We are offering the option of a 4-day Amazon Rainforest extension.
Please contact adventure@wildwomenexpeditions.com to book!
Located in the heart of one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet, Ecuador’s Yasuni National Park is rich with extraordinary wildlife and vibrant local culture. Spanning nearly 2.5 million acres of the Amazonian rainforest. Napo Wildlife Center is a gem to be cherished and the only lodge within the Yasuni park boundaries, an important biosphere reserve and the largest tract of tropical rainforest in Ecuador.
Napo Wildlife Center is one of the most successful projects of community tourism in Ecuador. The project has an excellent standard of accommodation and service, making your stay an unforgettable experience in the most biodiverse place on the planet! It is located in the territory of the Añangu Kichwa Community totally inside of the Yasuní National Park, here, hunting and fishing are forbidden in all the area of the Community. And this is one of the main reasons why you can see so much wildlife in its natural state!
DAY ONE: CANOE ALONG THE NAPO RIVER
Depart from Quito on your 30-minute flight to Coca over the eastern Andes mountain range. Land about mid-morning and go through airport procedures. Take a 5-minute transfer in local chiva (hired bus) or local taxi from the airport to Port La mision / Francisco de Orellana, which will drive us to embark onto a comfortably covered motorboat.
Here we start a canoe ride along the Napo river for about 2 hours. There will be a lunch box in route. Along the way birds like herons, kingfishers and others can be spotted. After arriving at NWC’s entry dock we disembark for a restroom break and then take a majestic and peaceful 1 to 2 hours dugout canoe ride surrounded by trees overhead, paddling along a narrow creek that connects to the lake where the lodge is located. There is a good possibility we’ll see monkeys of various species, as well as large birds like toucans, parrots or even macaws. Late afternoon arrival to the NWC lodge with the overwhelming view of the Añangu lake, welcome drink and facilities.
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Napo Wildlife Centre
DAY TWO: PARROT CLAY LICKS
Early wake up to reach the parrot clay licks, about 1 hour away from the lodge. Arrive just before parrot activity kicks off at the clay lick between 7:30 to 8:30 AM. A total of 11 species of parrots, parakeets and macaws can be seen. The visit is weather-dependent but usually successful. Later, hike along the forest trail to visit the Kichwa Community of Añangu for sharing time with a family and an intro to their daily activities. Return to the creek and hike through a Terra Firme Forest for about 30 minutes until we arrive at the second parrot clay lick where, if the weather conditions permit, we’ll be able to find different species of parrots, parakeets and even macaws. Lunchbox served at the parrot clay lick observatory. Late afternoon arrival to the lodge.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Napo Wildlife Centre
DAY THREE: NAPO WILDLIFE CENTER
After early breakfast, depart from the lodge to the finest experience at a canopy tower on the Napo. This 36m high canopy tower is a great way to experience life above the forest floor. This is the second tower at the Napo Wildlife Center (the first is attached to the dining hall and allows great views of the lake).
The tower is located about 30 minutes from the lodge deep within the terra firme forest. As you ascend the 12-floor tower, you pass through different levels of the forest and emerge on top of a huge Ceiba tree. Here you cross onto a wooden platform that is built into the tree and experience a view formerly reserved only for birds. The metal tower itself was constructed to the highest standards, galvanized, and carefully inspected by engineers. Safety is the priority. The platform at the top of the tree was constructed by tree platform specialists as well.
From top to bottom, there is no finer canopy experience in Eastern Ecuador. Flocks of colourful tanagers weave through the canopy; blue and yellow Macaws fly past; a nearby Spider Monkeys searches for fruit; two species of large toucans call in the early mornings and afternoons, and the life of the forest canopy opens before you. Birds that are virtually impossible to see from the forest floor far below are suddenly right beside you, oblivious to your presence.
The canopy tower opens a whole new world to guests of the Napo Wildlife Center! Lunch served at the lodge. Afternoon visit to a terra firme trail, hike along primary forest to discover the forest interior, with possibilities of finding lizards, colourful manakins or the unique and endemic golden mantle tamarin monkeys. After the hike, explore the lake and creeks by dugout canoe with great possibilities of running into a giant otter family on the way…
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Napo Wildlife Centre
DAY FOUR: NAPO RIVER SIGHTS
Early departure and last canoe excursion back to the Napo River. The creek may reveal new sights of giant otters, monk saki monkeys or many other rare birds. Arrive at docking area, use of restrooms and embark on motorized canoe back to Coca; approximately 2-hour boat ride. Check-in for Coca – Quito flight.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Additional Details
- Route: Quito (UIO) – Coca (OCC)
- Airline: AEROREGIONAL/ LATAM
- Flight Number: Will be communicated 30 days prior to your trip
- Departure Date: Day 1
- Departure Time: Approximately 10:00 AM – to be confirmed
- Arrival Time: Approximately 11:00 AM – to be confirmed
Note: Domestic flights in Ecuador sometimes change. If there’s a flight change, Wild Women Expedition will send an email at least 1 week prior to your trip.
Please consider that the Amazon extension could start and end any day of the week, with the exception of Sunday.
Bear in mind flights´ schedules are always changing, therefore we cannot confirm this information. Depending on the airline, the departure time will be around 9 am to 10 am and will be communicated in your pre-trip departure bulletin, sent 30 days pre trip.
- Route: Coca (OCC) – Quito (UIO)
- Airline: AEROREGIONAL/ LATAM
- Flight Number: will be communicated 30 days prior to your trip
- Departure Date: Day 4
- Departure Time: Approximately 12:00 PM – to be confirmed
- Arrival Time: Approximately 1:00 PM – to be confirmed
Note: Domestic flights in Ecuador sometimes change. If there’s a flight change, Wild Women Expedition will send an email at least 1 week prior to your trip.
- Wyndham Quito Airport Hotel
Recuperate from your flight at this brand new hotel, which opened its doors in 2016. Every one of its 150 rooms and suites comes equipped with pillowtop mattresses, a 51” plasma TV with satellite, free Wi-Fi, safety deposit box, hairdryer, and ironing board. The hotel offers a regular shuttle service to and from the airport. To book, click here.
For experiencing Quito:
- Patio Andaluz
Patio Andaluz is an elegant boutique hotel located in the heart of Quito’s Historic Center. Just two blocks from the Plaza Grande and within easy walking distance of churches, museums, and historic sites, this colonial style hotel will allow you to experience the true culture of Quito. Enjoy complimentary services and amenities, including free WiFi in all 32 available suites. Relax and enjoy the El Rincon de Cantuna patio restaurant, the Marquez de Jerez Cava bar for wine and tapas, and the Olga Fisch folklore artisan shop. To book, click here.
- Rooming Arrangements
All accommodation is double occupancy unless you upgrade to a Single Supplement. Contact us at support@wildwomenexpeditions.com to upgrade.
- Overnight Arrangements
Napo Wildlife Centre
Expertly situated with breathtaking views of the Añangu lake and pristine rainforest. Our facilities offer a unique twist on your vision of a dream vacation and are designed for nature lovers hoping to experience all the sights and sounds of the Amazon.
- Potable Water
Bottled water is provided in your cabin and is free of charge. Filtered drinking water is provided during meal times. We suggest you do not drink water from the tap in your cabin. Water bottles can be refilled from the water container located in the bar area.
If you would like to join Wild Women Expeditions in its commitment to reducing single-use plastic, you can travel prepared with your own water treatment system!
- On Day Two of your trip, head to the Domestic Departures section of the airport. Prior to meeting the group, have your bags inspected by SICGAL as required to travel to Galápagos. Located near the entrance of the airport. They will check that you are not bringing substances, like fruit, to Galápagos. Do not check in with airline personnel or ask them for assistance.
- Your guide will greet you and will assist you with the check-in and provide you with your boarding pass. You will not need to stand in line to pay the TCT (Transit Control Card), as this has already been prepaid for you.
- Upon arrival in Galápagos (SCY), you will form a line to process passengers for the Park Entrance fee. Your guide will take care of the payment and you your passport will be checked.
- You claim your bags, and then follow your group outside – where your adventure begins!
The trip orientation will occur when we arrive at the camp in the Galápagos. Exact flight times might change depending on flight schedule and will be communicated a few weeks before the trip begins.
Group Rendezvous Point Day 2
- Time: approximately 7:00 AM or earlier (your morning flight will be confirmed about one month before your trip
- Location: Quito Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO).
- Wyndham Quito Airport Hotel
Conveniently located next to the airport. Shuttles are free. Please book your shuttle when you make your reservation. To book,.
click here.
- San Jose de Puembo
Just 14 km away from Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) and 27 km away from the city of Quito, this hotel is in the heart of the Puembo Valley in a restored Ecuadorean Hacienda, the Hacienda San Jose, which dates back to the 18th Century. Amenities include free airport shuttle, WiFi, Indoor/outdoor heated pool, fitness centre and restaurant. All guest rooms are designed with both business and leisure travellers in mind. Rooms include features such as LCD satellite TV, a coffee maker, work desk, hairdryer, iron and ironing board.
This is the hotel that we’ll be staying at on the last night of your trip. To book,click here.
For experiencing Quito:
- Hotel Le Parc
Unwind in style at the hip, upscale Le Parc. This truly exclusive hotel is a symphony of contemporary chic, from the 5-foot gas fireplace in its lobby restaurant, to the stunning rooftop bar with spectacular views of the city. Twenty-six unique suites are available with king sized beds, and four suites with two full sized beds. All rooms feature Egyptian cotton linens, duck down duvets, and a spacious modern bathroom. The hotel has a compact gym with sauna and a full-service L’Occitane Spa. You will be within walking distance of Carolina Park’s jogging trails, botanic gardens, and close to some of Quito’s top restaurants. To book, click here.
- Patio Andaluz
Patio Andaluz is an elegant boutique hotel located in the heart of Quito’s Historic Center. Just two blocks from the Plaza Grande and within easy walking distance of churches, museums, and historic sites, this colonial style hotel will allow you to experience the true culture of Quito. Enjoy complimentary services and amenities, including free WiFi in all 32 available suites. Relax and enjoy the El Rincon de Cantuna patio restaurant, the Marquez de Jerez Cava bar for wine and tapas, and the Olga Fisch folklore artisan shop. To book, click here.
- The trip ends officially on Day 11
- The return flight to Quito (UIO) is included and will depart around noon on Day 10 from Baltra (GPS), Galápagos Islands. We’ll transfer to our hotel, San Jose de Puembo Hotel for our farewell dinner.
- You may arrange your departure flight for any time on Day 11, with an airport shuttle provided at no extra fee. Be sure to add your flight departure information to your Travel Details Form.
- Note that if you are interested in staying longer, Wild Women Expeditions offers a trip extension to the Amazon Rainforest.
Drop-Off Point:
- Day 11
- Time: In contingency with your departure time
- Location: Quito Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO)
- Wyndham Quito Airport Hotel
Conveniently located next to the airport. Shuttles are free. Please book your shuttle when you make your reservation. To book, click here.
- San Jose de Puembo
Just 14 km away from Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) and 27 km away from the city of Quito, this hotel is in the heart of the Puembo Valley in a restored Ecuadorean Hacienda, the Hacienda San Jose, which dates back to the 18th Century. Amenities include free airport shuttle, WiFi, Indoor/outdoor heated pool, fitness centre and restaurant. All guest rooms are designed with both business and leisure travellers in mind. Rooms include features such as LCD satellite TV, a coffee maker, work desk, hairdryer, iron and ironing board.
This is the hotel that we’ll be staying at on the last night of your trip. To book, click here.
For experiencing authentic Quito:
- Hotel Le Parc
Unwind in style at the hip, upscale Le Parc. This truly exclusive hotel is a symphony of contemporary chic, from the 5-foot gas fireplace in its lobby restaurant, to the stunning rooftop bar with spectacular views of the city. Twenty-six unique suites are available with king sized beds, and four suites with two full sized beds. All rooms feature Egyptian cotton linens, duck down duvets, and a spacious modern bathroom. The hotel has a compact gym with sauna and a full-service L’Occitane Spa. You will be within walking distance of Carolina Park’s jogging trails, botanic gardens, and close to some of Quito’s top restaurants. To book, click here.
- Patio Andaluz
Patio Andaluz is an elegant boutique hotel located in the heart of Quito’s Historic Center. Just two blocks from the Plaza Grande and within easy walking distance of churches, museums, and historic sites, this colonial style hotel will allow you to experience the true culture of Quito. Enjoy complimentary services and amenities, including free WiFi in all 32 available suites. Relax and enjoy the El Rincon de Cantuna patio restaurant, the Marquez de Jerez Cava bar for wine and tapas, and the Olga Fisch folklore artisan shop. To book, click here.
Megan and Zale | ****Now Boarding Travel SpecialistEmail: wildwomen@nowboarding.travelNote: Now Boarding Travel only provides services of 3-star quality or greater. For budget alternatives, please refer to the Lonely Planet guide for your destination.Important: For international and remote destinations, there is always the risk of flight delays, baggage delays and flight schedule changes which may cause late arrivals, which may, in return, result in you missing the group tour departure. For these reasons, we encourage you to consider arriving a day early, which will also help you overcome any jet lag from traveling!
- Passport
Most countries and airlines recommend passports be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected return to your home country. Before you leave, ask your transportation company about its requirements related to passport validity, which may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.
Important: A copy of your passport must be emailed to the Wild Women Expeditions office by 130-days pre-trip.
- Visa
No visas are required for U.S., Canadian and most European citizens. Visas are required for some Asian, Central American and Eastern European countries.
Note: As fees and policies can change, we highly recommend that you contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent.
- Rooming Arrangements
All accommodation is double occupancy unless you upgrade to a Single Supplement. Contact us at support@wildwomenexpeditions.com to upgrade. There’s a limited number of single supplements!
- Bathrooms
There are showers at all of the hotels we stay at. While camping for 2 nights, you’ll have the opportunity for a soapy sponge bath, or for washing your face, etc.
- Toilets
Most bathrooms will neither look nor smell as sanitary as you are used to. Once in Ecuador, it’s a good idea to carry your own supply of toilet paper. You will usually find a wastebasket next to the toilet to throw your used toilet paper. Please use them, since most sewage systems cannot handle paper down the toilets. When camping, we use a portable toilet at each camp and all solid human waste is carried out.
- Potable Water
It is very important that you drink plenty of water while on the trip. Safe drinking water tanks will be provided for you to fill your bottles. Please bring a wide-mouthed water bottle with you. Bottled water is also widely available for purchase, should you require it.</>
If you would like to join Wild Women Expeditions in its commitment to reducing single-use plastic, you can travel prepared with your own water treatment system!
- Camping
We will be camping on Manglecito Beach in two-person tents. All camping gear, including tents, sleeping bags and Thermarests are provided. There is no electricity at these sites – enjoy the sites and sounds of the surf and the stars!
- Blue Marlin Hotel
A waterside hotel offers amenities such as WiFi, outdoor pool, air conditioning, non-smoking rooms, and business centre.
- Casa Opuntia Hotel – March 25, 2023 Departure Only
Ideally situated on the oceanfront boardwalk, just a few meters from the golden Playa de Oro beach, it is the perfect home base from which to explore all that the island has to offer!
- Ikala Hotel
The hotel has spacious living rooms, a panoramic terrace overlooking the city of Quito, and gardens that offer our guests the perfect atmosphere to relax.
- Isamar Hotel – March 25, 2023 Departure Only
Isamar Hotel began operations in 2016, it is a 4-star hotel situated sitting along the beach of Puerto Villamil. The hotel offers excellent service, comfort, food, beach access a relaxing community lounge and balcony areas.
- Casita de Marita
Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this cozy, beachfront hotel is 7 km from El Muro de las Lágrimas, the commemorative Wall of Tears.
The simple, colorful rooms, some with balconies, feature original contemporary art, wood-beam ceilings, and ocean or garden views. Suites offer living and dining rooms and kitchenettes, as well as panoramic terraces.
- San Jose de Puembo Airport Hotel
Just 14 km away from Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) and just 27 km away from the city of Quito, this hotel is in the heart of the Puembo Valley in a restored Ecuadorean Hacienda, the Hacienda San Jose, which dates back to the 18th Century. Amenities include free airport shuttle, WiFi, Indoor/outdoor heated pool, fitness centre and restaurant. All guest rooms are designed with both business and leisure travellers in mind. Rooms include features such as LCD satellite TV, a coffee maker, work desk, hairdryer, iron and ironing board.
- Full country name: “Republic of Ecuador” or in Quechua, “Ikwadur”
- Capital City: Quito
- Language: Spanish, Quechua, Shuar + 12 other Indigenous languages
- Area: 283,560 km2
- Population: 16 million
- People: 71.9% Mestizo
- 7.4% Montubio
- 7.2% Afroecuadorian
- 7% Indigenous
- 6.1% White
- 0.4% others
- Religion: Predominantly Roman Catholic
- Government: Unitary presidential constitutional republic – President Rafael Correa
- Major Industries: Petroleum and agricultural products
- Currency: United States Dollar (USD)
- Electricity: 110/AC 60 cycle (plugs are same as in the USA)
- Cash
The currency in Ecuador is USD.
Be sure to bring small bills ($1, $5, $10 are best – bills over $20 USD are rarely accepted). Automated banking machines (ATMs) are on some of the islands, however bank fees can be as high, there is sometimes a limit on how much you can take out, and sometimes the machines are not well stocked with bills. The only cash machines in the Galápagos are in Puerto Ayora in the airport on Baltra, on the main island of Santa Cruz and in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on San Cristobal.
- Currency Exchange Offices & Banks
Please check online for current exchange rates. Wild Women Expeditions likes XE Currency Converter
We highly suggest you read this article: Where to Exchange Currency Without Paying Huge Fees for more information about this for your trip.
- Credit Cards
Major credit cards (Visa and MasterCard) are widely accepted in big cities and resort hotels but not in family-run guesthouses or restaurants.
- Take every opportunity you can to be active.
You can improve your fitness a lot just by adopting some new habits; take the stairs at work, go for a walk at lunchtime, park your car away from work and walk. Aim for 30 minutes a day and keep a diary so you can look back on it and feel proud. These may sound trivial but they’re all building blocks!
- Rev up your ticker!
Think ‘interval training’, which means doing short bursts of high-intensity work with recovery time in between. Depending on how fit you are this can mean strolling with bursts of power walking, or jogging with sprints. Either way, the aim is to get your heart rate up.
- Join a local walking or running group.
This is a great way to get fit and you’ll also see new places, meet great people… and make them all jealous when they find out what you’re about to go on your travels.
- Hill training.
The most spectacular views aren’t from the bottom of a valley – so the places we go on our trips aren’t flat. A little time training on hills and stairs is an investment that’ll pay off big-time when you’re on your trip. When it comes to hills there’s no hurry – get into a slow steady rhythm and you’ll be at the top before you know it.
- Warm up, cool down and stretch.
If you’re doing a workout then make sure you start and finish gently and stretch any tight muscles – this will help you avoid any aches, pains and pulled muscles. If you’re a member of a gym try some yoga, tai chi or pilates classes to build up your flexibility, stability and balance.
- Take a kayak lesson!
Although this trip is beginner friendly and your guides will lead you through a full orientation once on the trip, if you haven’t paddled a kayak before and if you have the opportunity, take a lesson or two with a local kayak outfitter in your neck of the woods. Even a pool session is good! This will give you the basics, boost your confidence which will allow you to enjoy your trip that much more.
- Break in your hiking boots.
Blisters and sore feet are no fun at all! So make sure that while you’re getting yourself ready you’re doing the same for your shoes. Start by just wearing them around the house, then down the road, and walking the dog. Then ideally do a couple of decent length weekend hikes to prepare them for what is to come.
- Hydration.
When you suddenly ask your body to walk or be active, it needs a bit more fuel than it needs when, say, sitting at a desk all day! The main thing your body needs is water, so stay hydrated and practice sipping water often. Getting a water bottle or hydration bladder is a great way to make sure you have it on hand at all times. Make a habit out of taking a bottle of water with you wherever you go.
- Nutrition.
Eating little and often will keep your body well fuelled for outdoor exercise, especially food like nuts, dried fruit and bread. The odd bit of chocolate and a few boiled lollies are good for keeping your blood sugar levels up while you’re hiking as well!
- Have fun!
The most important point of all! You are about to embark on the trip of a lifetime. You’re going to meet some amazing people, see some wonderful places and create memories that will stay with you for life. The more prepared you are to tackle the various challenges, the more fun you will have. Also, with all the endorphins you create from all this training, you’ll be smiling from ear to ear! It’s a great way to boost your happy vibes.
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BOOK NOW -
Starting At$7,295Deposit$995Duration11 DAYS
- 🇺🇸USD PRICEFOREIGN EXCHANGE FEES MAY APPLY
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IS THIS TRIP RIGHT FOR YOU?
This is an adventure travel trip. You must be comfortable with:
- Paddling up to 7 nautical miles for 4 hours, with breaks in a single or tandem/2-person kayak
- Being in a kayak for extended periods of time
- Entering and exiting the motorboats and pangas (Zodiac boats)
- Hiking on uneven terrain for up to 6-7 hours
- Being in water, as there may be unexpected swims. WWE must know if you are a non-swimmer (PFDs are provided)!
- All applicable taxes are included in the trip price
What's Included
- Return domestic flights from Quito (UIO) – San Cristobal (SCY) and Baltra (GPS) – Quito (UIO) ($600USD value)
- One night pre-trip hotel stay at Wyndham Quito Airport (considered Day 1 of trip)
- Park permit ($100 USD)
- TCT – Transit Control Card ($20USD)
- Isabela arrival tax ($12USD)
- AWESOME female guide and sea kayak expert
- Expert Galápagos naturalist guide
- 4 days sea kayaking and wildlife viewing
- 1 day hiking Volcan Sierra
- Snorkeling excursions and equipment
- 2 nights camping on Galápagos islands + all gear
- 7 nights double occupancy in hotels
- Ground transportation (private group transfer by boat between islands)
- 9 decadent breakfasts, 8 lunches, 8 dinners, snacks (alcoholic beverages are NOT included)
- Single room upgrade, subject to availability
- Optional Upgrade (Amazon Rainforest Extension) includes the following:
– Return airfare from Quito-Coca-Quito
– River transportation to Coca – Napo Wildlife Center
– Entrance to Yasuni National Park and parrot clay licks
– Engaging bilingual community and naturalist guide
– Poncho and rubber boots
– All excursions and activities, as described in program - All applicable taxes are included in trip price