Ecuador Galapagos Adventure Cruising on EcoGalaxy Western Loop Tour

Wildlife Wonders, Expert Guides & Comfortable Cruising


Follow in the footsteps of Charles Darwin on this inspirational small-group adventure through the enchanted western and central islands of the Galapagos. Take in the natural wonders and rich wildlife on Santa Cruz, Isabela, Fernandina, and Santiago. The western islands are younger and more volcanically active, studded with cones, craters, and a rippled lava landscape, as well as stunning beaches. Hiking, snorkeling, and kayaking under the guidance of MT Sobek's dedicated naturalist guide gets you amazingly close to the wildlife both underwater and on land. After each action-filled day, return to your intimate 16-passenger private catamaran to rest and re-energize. Explore further on our range of exciting pre- or post-trip extensions in Ecuador . To learn more about the Galapagos Islands and what you can expect from MT Sobek boats and adventures, check out our Galapagos Islands Visitors Guide .

9 Days • 8 Nights

Follow in the footsteps of Charles Darwin on this inspirational small-group adventure through the enchanted western and central islands of the Galapagos. Take in the natural wonders and rich wildlife on Santa Cruz, Isabela, Fernandina, and Santiago. The western islands are younger and more volcanically active, studded with cones, craters, and a rippled lava landscape, as well as stunning beaches. Hiking, snorkeling, and kayaking under the guidance of MT Sobek's dedicated naturalist guide gets you amazingly close to the wildlife both underwater and on land. After each action-filled day, return to your intimate 16-passenger private catamaran to rest and re-energize. Explore further on our range of exciting pre- or post-trip extensions in Ecuador . To learn more about the Galapagos Islands and what you can expect from MT Sobek boats and adventures, check out our Galapagos Islands Visitors Guide .

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Highlights


  • Marvel at the incredible diversity of species and habitats visiting 9 landing sites in 6 days
  • Explore an array of pristine islands, from volcanic Isabela to wildlife-rich Fernandina, accompanied by our expert naturalist guides
  • Behold black lava landscapes teeming with marine iguanas, and swim with sea lions, turtles, and penguins

Ecuador Galapagos Adventure Cruising on Eco-Galaxy Western Loop

Start: Quito, Ecuador  End: Quito, Ecuador

Itinerary


  • Arrive in Quito

    Day 1

    Welcome to the historic city of Quito, the capital of Ecuador. An MT Sobek representative will meet you outside customs at the airport and escort you to your hotel. After settling in at the hotel, the rest of the day is free to unwind, take advantage of the hotel's pool and spa services or begin your exploration of this dynamic city. Dinner is on your own tonight.

    Accommodation: Swissotel-Quito, Ecuador

    Transportation: 1-hour private van transfer

  • Tour Quito's Old Town

    Day 2

    Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before setting out on a half-day guided tour of colonial Quito. The city's UNESCO-listed old town contains the best examples of Colonial Baroque architecture in South America! After lunch, you are free to explore more of the old town, return to the hotel, or shop for handicrafts made by local artisans. Gather in the hotel at 6:30 pm for a briefing with your fellow travelers and MT Sobek representative, who will discuss tomorrow's flight to the Galapagos Islands and the adventure ahead. Dinner is on your own tonight.

    Accommodation: Swissotel-Quito, Ecuador

    Activity: 1-2 hours/1 mile of walking in Quito's Historic Center

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

  • Fly to the Galapagos Islands & See Giant Tortoises in the Wild

    Day 3

    Rise for breakfast and an early transfer flight from Quito to Baltra Island in the Galapagos. After meeting your naturalist guide, take a short transfer from Baltra to Santa Cruz Island. Here a private vehicle awaits to take you to the lush highlands of Santa Cruz for a special opportunity to see giant tortoises in their wild and natural habitat. The Galapagos Islands are named after these magnificent, ancient creatures and the experience with them is magical. Having gotten to know the islands' endearing namesake, transfer to Puerto Ayora this afternoon and board your private catamaran. Enjoy a welcome dinner onboard.

    Accommodation: EcoGalaxy

    Activity: 1.5-2 hours/1 mile of easy walking

    Transportation: 2-hour flight transfer and 1-hour private vehicle transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Discover Flightless Cormorants at Isabela's Elizabeth Bay

    Day 4

    In the morning, disembark at Moreno Point on the west coast of Isabela Island. As you glide along the striking rocky shores by Zodiac, begin to watch for the abundant birdlife that makes this island a birdwatcher's paradise! Once on land, follow a scenic path through lava rocks leading to mangroves and tide pools, where green sea turtles and white-tip sharks can be spotted. Then snorkel in search of sea turtles, diving cormorants, and even penguins. In the afternoon, explore the sheltered beauty of Elizabeth Bay, surrounded by large mangroves and rippled lava fields. Take a Zodiac cruise to explore many channels, pools and coves teeming with life. This is one of the best locations in the islands to see Galapagos penguins. Flightless cormorants also nest in the area and blue-footed boobies and pelicans often fish in these shallow and rich waters. Rays and sea turtles are also abundant. Return to the boat for cocktail hour and dinner.

    Accommodation: EcoGalaxy

    Activity: AM 2 hours/1.5 miles of moderate hiking, Zodiac cruise, and snorkeling; PM Zodiac cruise

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Swim With Penguins at Isabela's Urbina Bay & Tagus Cove

    Day 5

    After breakfast, make a wet landing to explore Urbina Bay, on the southeast side of Isabela. Volcanic activity in the 1950s uplifted the seabed, remarkably exposing corals and invertebrates in its strata. Follow your guide on the trail to look for Galapagos land iguanas, Galapagos hawks, finches, and (mostly between January and June) giant tortoises. Snorkel from the beach to see sea turtles, cormorants, penguins, and an abundance of colorful fish. In the afternoon, look for whales and dolphins as you navigate north along Isabela's coast toward Tagus Cove. Plunge into the sheltered waters, a great place to snorkel with penguins and plentiful fish. Head inland on a guided walk to see inscriptions left by whalers in the 1800's and stunning saltwater Darwin Lake, After the walk, cruise by Zodiac or paddle by kayak to look for penguins, cormorants, marine iguanas, and the endemic Galapagos martin, one of the most endangered species on the island.

    Accommodation: EcoGalaxy

    Activity: AM 1.5-2 hours/1 mile of easy walking plus snorkeling; PM 1.5-2 hours/2 miles of moderate walking plus panga cruise or kayak, and snorkeling

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Snorkel with Sea Turtles & Marine Iguanas at Pristine Fernandina

    Day 6

    Awake at Fernandina, the archipelago's youngest island and a true highlight of the journey. Step ashore at Punta Espinosa into a dramatic volcanic landscape where hundreds of marine iguanas—the largest colony in the Galapagos—bask in the sun. Sea lion pups splash in tidal pools, flightless cormorants dry their stubby wings, and Galapagos hawks perch in mangroves, scanning for prey. Snorkel among sea turtles and marine iguanas, with the rare chance of spotting a cormorant underwater as it chases fish through the reef. In the afternoon, land at Albemarle Point on the remote northern tip of Isabela Island, a site seldom visited by other groups. Walk across stark lava fields among some of the archipelago's largest marine iguanas, as well as Galapagos penguins, flightless cormorants, and shorebirds. See the remains of a former US radar base from World War II. If tides allow, finish with a Zodiac cruise in search of penguins, sharks, sea turtles, and rays along the mangroves.

    Accommodation: EcoGalaxy

    Activity: AM 2-2.5 hours/1.5 miles of moderate hiking plus snorkeling; PM 1 hour/0.6 miles of easy hiking

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Hike, Snorkel, & Kayak at Santiago Island

    Day 7

    Step onto the dark, volcanic sands of Santiago's Puerto Egas after a wet landing and follow the rugged shoreline to tide pools where sponges, hermit crabs, and fish dwell—including the world's only four-eyed blenny. Sea lions bask on lava rocks alongside marine iguanas and shorebirds, and a colony of Galapagos fur seals frequent a grotto at the trail's end. Snorkel from the beach to see fish, sea turtles, and reef sharks glide over the rocky bottom, often joined by curious sea lions. This afternoon, make another wet landing on Santiago's sandy Espumilla Beach. Walk along the coastal lagoon framed by mangroves and native dry forest, home to raptors and a great diversity of finches. Then set out by Zodiac or kayak to explore historic Buccaneer Cove, once a 17th- and 18th-century pirate hideout. Snorkel among angelfish, parrotfish, and snappers while spotting reef sharks, turtles, and playful sea lions below cliffs and volcanic cones in one of the Galapagos' most scenic bays.

    Accommodation: EcoGalaxy

    Activity: AM 2-2.5 hours/1.5 miles of easy walking plus snorkeling; PM 1.5-2 hours/1.4 miles of easy hiking plus snorkeling and kayaking

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Return to Quito

    Day 8

    Wake up early for one last excursion in the islands, exploring one of two remarkable sites—Dragon Hill on Santa Cruz, where flamingos gather at a saltwater lagoon, or Daphne Major, home to nesting seabirds and groundbreaking finch evolution research. Snap some final photos before returning to the ship for breakfast and preparing to disembark at Baltra for your flight back to Quito. An MT Sobek representative will greet you at Quito airport and provide assistance to your nearby hotel.

    Accommodation: Wyndham Quito Airport Hotel-Quito

    Activity: AM 1-1.5 hours/1 mile of easy hiking

    Transportation: 2-hour flight transfer and 5-minute transfer

    Meals: Breakfast

  • Depart Quito

    Day 9

    Use the complimentary airport shuttle to transfer to the airport in time for your outbound flight, or opt to stay on in Quito to join us for one of our extensions in Ecuador or Peru!

    Meals: Breakfast

Why Travel With Us?


  • MT Sobek was one of the first North American companies to bring visitors to the Galapagos Islands, with an inaugural charter for the Sierra Club in 1970.
  • Guests love our Galapagos adventures because we charter truly small (maximum 16-passenger) vessels for an exclusive experience with our own expert naturalist guide.
  • Our dedicated guide and crew maximize wildlife encounters both on land and sea, and your guide will always accompany you while hiking and snorkeling.

Dates & Prices


Price is per person, double occupancy in USD.

The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates youโ€™ll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.

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2026


  • Jun 18 - 26, 2026
    $8,665 price per person dbl occ
    Which Includes:
    $650 internal airfare$20 Transit Control Card
    Optional:
    +$400 Single Occupancy (Hotels Only)+$4,000 Single Supplement (Hotel & Catamaran)
    WaitlistConfirmed
  • Nov 19 - 27, 2026
    $8,665 price per person dbl occ
    Which Includes:
    $650 internal airfare$20 Transit Control Card
    Optional:
    +$400 Single Occupancy (Hotels Only)+$4,000 Single Supplement (Hotel & Catamaran)
    Available

2027


  • Feb 11 - 19, 2027
    $9,365 price per person dbl occ
    Which Includes:
    $650 internal airfare$20 Transit Control Card
    Optional:
    +$450 Single Occupancy (Hotels Only)+$4,300 Single Supplement (Hotel & Catamaran)
    Available
  • Mar 25 - Apr 02, 2027
    $9,365 price per person dbl occ
    Which Includes:
    $650 internal airfare$20 Transit Control Card
    Optional:
    +$450 Single Occupancy (Hotels Only)+$4,300 Single Supplement (Hotel & Catamaran)
    Available
  • Jul 15 - 23, 2027
    $9,365 price per person dbl occ
    Which Includes:
    $650 internal airfare$20 Transit Control Card
    Optional:
    +$450 Single Occupancy (Hotels Only)+$4,300 Single Supplement (Hotel & Catamaran)
    Available
  • Nov 18 - 26, 2027
    $9,365 price per person dbl occ
    Which Includes:
    $650 internal airfare$20 Transit Control Card
    Optional:
    +$450 Single Occupancy (Hotels Only)+$4,300 Single Supplement (Hotel & Catamaran)
    Available
  • Go Private
  • Go Custom
  • Inclusions

Go Private

Go Private with MT Sobek


Gather your favorite travel companionsโ€”family, friends, colleagues, or clubโ€”and enjoy an exclusive departure thatโ€™s easy to book and completely unforgettable.

Private Trip Request

Private Trip Requirements


A 25% non-refundable deposit is required to confirm your private departure.

Minimum age for guests on this trip is 8 years old.

Choose Your Own Travel Dates


January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, October, November, December

Private Trip Pricing: 2026


15 to 16 guests from $7,665 per person double occupancy

14 guests from $7,865 per person double occupancy

13 guests from $8,165 per person double occupancy

12 guests from $8,665 per person double occupancy

11 guests from $9,165 per person double occupancy

10 guests from $9,865 per person double occupancy

9 guests from $10,665 per person double occupancy

8 guests from $11,665 per person double occupancy

Included Costs:

Internal Airfare: $650

Transit Control Card: $20

Optional:

$400 Single Occupancy (Hotels Only)

$4,000 Single Supplement (Hotel & Catamaran)

Private Trip Pricing: 2027


15 to 16 guests from $8,365 per person double occupancy

14 guests from $8,665 per person double occupancy

13 guests from $8,865 per person double occupancy

12 guests from $9,365 per person double occupancy

11 guests from $9,865 per person double occupancy

10 guests from $10,665 per person double occupancy

9 guests from $11,665 per person double occupancy

8 guests from $12,565 per person double occupancy

Included Costs:

Internal Airfare: $650

Transit Control Card: $20

Optional:

$450 Single Occupancy (Hotels Only)

$4,300 Single Supplement (Hotel & Catamaran)

*Seasonal rates may apply.

*Trip pricing on the website is provided as an estimate and is subject to change based on rates at the time of request and seasonality.

Take Over One of These Dates


Go Custom

Create Your Very Own Adventure


Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.

When to start planning? Earlier is always better when designing a custom trip. More time allows for better availability of preferred accommodations, guides and your desired activities. Ideally, start the conversation with us at least 6 months before you want to travel. If you are looking for a custom trip that departs within three months, chances are greatly diminished in securing requested accommodations and the best guides.

*Custom trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit once an itinerary is agreed upon.

Start Planning

Inclusions

Price Includes


  • Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
  • All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
  • All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
  • Snacks and water between meals
  • Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
  • Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
  • Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
  • Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
  • All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
  • Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
  • Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
  • Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
  • Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Baggage transfers and porterage

Price Does Not Include


  • International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
  • Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
  • Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and yacht crew
  • Travel Protection Program
  • Personal expenses
  • Galapagos National Park fee, collected upon arrival (currently $200 for Age 13 and older: $100 for Age 12 and younger)
  • Wetsuit rentals
  • Galapagos Transit Control Card

Contact An Expert


800-974-0300

Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.

Your Guides


The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.

Luis D.

Luis D.

Luis was born in Seville, Spain, and graduated from the Universidad Autonoma de Madrid with a degree in Environmental Biology. He is fluent in Spanish, English, and French and has guided in Galapagos since 1999. In addition to being a professional nature photographer, Luis has a Master's Degree in Geographic Ecology and is active with conservation groups. A born teacher, he enthusiastically shares his knowledge of Galapagos with people of all ages. He lives in Quito with his wife, twin sons, and daughter and is MT Sobek's head naturalist guide. 

Patricia S.

Patricia S.

Patricia has been guiding diving trips in Galapagos since 1999. A native of Switzerland and originally a journalist for the Swiss News Agency, Patricia started her career in guiding as a divemaster in Honduras in 1995 and as a naturalist guide in Costa Rica. She is fascinated by wildlife, is a passionate teacher, and an active conservationist in the islands. As a resident of Galapagos, she will be able to give you an insider's viewpoint of life in the islands. Patricia is fluent in English, German, and French.

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Welcome to the historic city of Quito, the capital of Ecuador. An MT Sobek representative will meet you outside customs at the airport and escort you to your hotel. After settling in at the hotel, the rest of the day is free to unwind, take advantage of the hotel\'s pool and spa services or begin your exploration of this dynamic city. Dinner is on your own tonight.

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Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before setting out on a half-day guided tour of colonial Quito. The city\'s UNESCO-listed old town contains the best examples of Colonial Baroque architecture in South America! After lunch, you are free to explore more of the old town, return to the hotel, or shop for handicrafts made by local artisans. Gather in the hotel at 6:30 pm for a briefing with your fellow travelers and MT Sobek representative, who will discuss tomorrow\'s flight to the Galapagos Islands and the adventure ahead. Dinner is on your own tonight.

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Rise for breakfast and an early transfer flight from Quito to Baltra Island in the Galapagos. After meeting your naturalist guide, take a short transfer from Baltra to Santa Cruz Island. Here a private vehicle awaits to take you to the lush highlands of Santa Cruz for a special opportunity to see giant tortoises in their wild and natural habitat. The Galapagos Islands are named after these magnificent, ancient creatures and the experience with them is magical. Having gotten to know the islands\' endearing namesake, transfer to Puerto Ayora this afternoon and board your private catamaran. Enjoy a welcome dinner onboard.

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In the morning, disembark at Moreno Point on the west coast of Isabela Island. As you glide along the striking rocky shores by Zodiac, begin to watch for the abundant birdlife that makes this island a birdwatcher\'s paradise! Once on land, follow a scenic path through lava rocks leading to mangroves and tide pools, where green sea turtles and white-tip sharks can be spotted. Then snorkel in search of sea turtles, diving cormorants, and even penguins. In the afternoon, explore the sheltered beauty of Elizabeth Bay, surrounded by large mangroves and rippled lava fields. Take a Zodiac cruise to explore many channels, pools and coves teeming with life. This is one of the best locations in the islands to see Galapagos penguins. Flightless cormorants also nest in the area and blue-footed boobies and pelicans often fish in these shallow and rich waters. Rays and sea turtles are also abundant. Return to the boat for cocktail hour and dinner.

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Awake at Fernandina, the archipelago\'s youngest island and a true highlight of the journey. Step ashore at Punta Espinosa into a dramatic volcanic landscape where hundreds of marine iguanas—the largest colony in the Galapagos—bask in the sun. Sea lion pups splash in tidal pools, flightless cormorants dry their stubby wings, and Galapagos hawks perch in mangroves, scanning for prey. Snorkel among sea turtles and marine iguanas, with the rare chance of spotting a cormorant underwater as it chases fish through the reef. In the afternoon, land at Albemarle Point on the remote northern tip of Isabela Island, a site seldom visited by other groups. Walk across stark lava fields among some of the archipelago\'s largest marine iguanas, as well as Galapagos penguins, flightless cormorants, and shorebirds. See the remains of a former US radar base from World War II. If tides allow, finish with a Zodiac cruise in search of penguins, sharks, sea turtles, and rays along the mangroves.

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Step onto the dark, volcanic sands of Santiago\'s Puerto Egas after a wet landing and follow the rugged shoreline to tide pools where sponges, hermit crabs, and fish dwell—including the world\'s only four-eyed blenny. Sea lions bask on lava rocks alongside marine iguanas and shorebirds, and a colony of Galapagos fur seals frequent a grotto at the trail\'s end. Snorkel from the beach to see fish, sea turtles, and reef sharks glide over the rocky bottom, often joined by curious sea lions. This afternoon, make another wet landing on Santiago\'s sandy Espumilla Beach. Walk along the coastal lagoon framed by mangroves and native dry forest, home to raptors and a great diversity of finches. Then set out by Zodiac or kayak to explore historic Buccaneer Cove, once a 17th- and 18th-century pirate hideout. Snorkel among angelfish, parrotfish, and snappers while spotting reef sharks, turtles, and playful sea lions below cliffs and volcanic cones in one of the Galapagos\' most scenic bays.

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Wake up early for one last excursion in the islands, exploring one of two remarkable sites—Dragon Hill on Santa Cruz, where flamingos gather at a saltwater lagoon, or Daphne Major, home to nesting seabirds and groundbreaking finch evolution research. Snap some final photos before returning to the ship for breakfast and preparing to disembark at Baltra for your flight back to Quito. An MT Sobek representative will greet you at Quito airport and provide assistance to your nearby hotel.

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Use the complimentary airport shuttle to transfer to the airport in time for your outbound flight, or opt to stay on in Quito to join us for one of our extensions in Ecuador or Peru!

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Activity Level


This trip is rated activity level 2. 5 days of swimming, snorkeling, and easy walking and hiking on terrain that is varied and uneven, plus one day of touring in Quito.
Learn more about activity levels here.

Activity Snapshot

Day 2

1-2 hours/1 mile of walking in Quito's Historic Center

Day 3

1.5-2 hours/1 mile of easy walking

Day 4

AM 2 hours/1.5 miles of moderate hiking, Zodiac cruise, and snorkeling; PM Zodiac cruise

Day 5

AM 1.5-2 hours/1 mile of easy walking plus snorkeling; PM 1.5-2 hours/2 miles of moderate walking plus panga cruise or kayak, and snorkeling

Day 6

AM 2-2.5 hours/1.5 miles of moderate hiking plus snorkeling; PM 1 hour/0.6 miles of easy hiking

Day 7

AM 2-2.5 hours/1.5 miles of easy walking plus snorkeling; PM 1.5-2 hours/1.4 miles of easy hiking plus snorkeling and kayaking

Day 8

AM 1-1.5 hours/1 mile of easy hiking

*Mileage and elevation change information is approximate and may vary slightly depending on trail conditions, weather, and route adjustments, and the guideโ€™s discretion.

Accommodations


Deluxe comfort aboard a modern catamaran with a full crew to cater to your every need. Also includes an upscale hotel in Quito.
Swissotel-Quito, Ecuador
Swissotel-Quito, Ecuador

The upscale Swissรดtel offers five-star comfort in Quito's Floresta neighborhood, close to great shopping, interesting museums, and the city's architectural gems. Elegant and comfortable rooms feature city or mountain views, flat-screen TVs with premium channels, complimentary Wi-Fi, and more. There are four restaurants onsite offering a variety of international cuisine. Other perks include a fitness center and an indoor pool.

EcoGalaxy
EcoGalaxy

Discover the "Enchanted Islands" in relaxed comfort onboard the EcoGalaxy, an 88-foot deluxe catamaran. Its eight staterooms, with a capacity for 16 adventurers, are equipped with en-suite bathrooms, including full-size shower, and A/C. Guests can also relax in the dining room, bar and lounge, and open sundeck, and enjoy the inflatable pangas, kayaks, and snorkeling gear. Designed to minimize environment impact, the EcoGalaxy operates on low fuel consumption with state-of-the-art water filters, LED illumination, tin-free exterior paint, and solar panels. Wi-Fi is now available on board!

Wyndham Quito Airport Hotel-Quito
Wyndham Quito Airport Hotel-Quito

The Wyndham Quito Airport is a convenient and comfortable stopover after your journey back from the Galรกpagos chosen for its location right next to the airport. Both international and Ecuadorian food options are available at the onsite restaurant and for room service. Rooms have large TVs and free WiFi. There is a 24-hour complimentary airport shuttle.

Weather


Mild climate year-round. Dec-May has daytime temperatures 76-86°F and water temperatures of 70-75°F. Jun-Nov has daytime temperatures of 67-77°F and water temperatures of 65-72°F.

 
Jan
Mar
May
Jul
Sep
Nov
Galapagos 
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Galapagos
85
70
88
75
78
72
78
68
78
66
84
70
Quito 
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Quito
66
49
66
49
66
49
67
47
68
47
67
48

FAQs


When and where should I arrive?
Arrive in Quito any time on Day 1. An MT Sobek representative will meet you and transfer you to the hotel. Most flights from the US arrive late at night.
How qualified are your guides in the Galapagos?
Our Galapagos Naturalist Guides are all rated Level 3 by the Galapagos National Park, which is the highest level of qualification, and means each guide has passed the Naturalist Level II course certifying that he/she has expert knowledge of the Galapagos Islands. This level guide will also hold a university degree in biology, biology related fields, and/or tourism, and must be fluent in 3 languages.
What is the difference between the ship types?
MT Sobek offers four motorized yachts and catamarans, ranging from comfortable to deluxe, and each carrying a maximum of just 16 guests, ensuring a personalized experience and on-going small-group discussion with our dedicated Naturalist Guide.



—The Galaxy II is a comfortable 97-foot motor yacht built in 2010 and renovated in 2024, with 9 cabins.
—The EcoGalaxy is a first-class 88-foot catamaran built in 2013 and designed to minimize environmental impact, with 8 spacious cabins.
—The Alya is a deluxe 103-foot catamaran built in 2016, with 8 cabins each featuring a private balcony plus one dedicated single cabin.
—The Endemic is a 115-foot luxury catamaran built in 2018, featuring 9 cabins (8 spacious suites plus 1 single cabin), all with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors and private balcony, and is available on a private charter basis only.


Each of the ships is fully air-conditioned, comes with the highest safety standards and a highly experienced and professional crew, and can boast excellent cuisine.
When is the best time to go to the Galapagos?
The Galapagos Islands are a year-round destination, with something to see and do every month. The warmer season is the best time for warmer, calmer seas and good underwater visibility. The water is choppiest in September. Late spring brings the mating and nesting season for frigate birds and blue-footed boobies!
Can I charter a yacht for a private adventure?
Yes, you can! Private charters are a great option for families and large groups. For more details, please call our Trip Consultants at 1-800-974-0300.
Am I able to extend my stay before or after my Galapagos cruise?
Absolutely! There are several ways to extend your stay in Ecuador and Peru before and after the trip. We recommend a 4 or 5 day excursion to the Sacha Jungle Lodge in the Upper Amazon Rainforest, where we see toucans and monkeys among many other creatures. Or visit the Hacienda Zuleta and Otavalo Market on our 2 or 3 day extension. Many people choose to explore Cusco and Machu Picchu on our 6-day extension in Peru, or explore the Mindo Cloud Forest on a 2 or 3 days extension.
How Does MT Sobek Support Conservation in the Galapagos?
MT Sobek is a proud supporting travel partner of the Galapagos Conservancy. All of our highly-experienced naturalist guides are also active in conservation and work closely with the Galapagos National Park.
Are there both wet and dry landings during the cruise?
Yes, there will be both wet and dry landings over the course of the cruise. During wet landings, you'll need to get off the panga in a shallow area of water close to shore and your feet will get wet. (Pangas are inflatable, motorized Zodiacs or dinghies that are used to get from the catamaran to shore). A dry landing means the pangas are able to pull alongside directly onto the beach or alongside a rocky landing or pier, and your feet can stay dry.
What is the minimum age for this trip?
This trip is great for all ages and the standard minimum age for scheduled group departures is 8; for private departures, the minimum age is 6.

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