Solo-ish Galápagos

Arrive at any time and transfer to the start hotel where you will be able to get settled and freshen up before attending a welcome briefing in the evening. Afterwards, opt to grab dinner in Quito with your fellow travellers and get to know everyone a bit more over some delicious local fare.

Fly to the Galápagos Islands and on arrival travel up into the highlands of Santa Cruz for an included lunch at a private eco reserve. While here, the group will have the chance to observe giant tortoises in their natural habitat and enjoy the panoramic views of the other islands from this elevation. Then, explore the lava tunnels, which offer a unique opportunity for travellers to walk through the large, naturally formed underground tunnels created by ancient lava flows.

This is an excellent way to experience the volcanic history of the islands and observe a unique ecosystem not found elsewhere. Later, the group will board a water taxi to a waterfront restaurant offering views of sharks, rays, and seals as you dine. Here, sit down together afterwards to enjoy the fruits of your labour and get to know one another with an exotic and signature cocktail.

Today is all about immersion into the wildlife and sustainable farming practices of the Galapagos. First, fill up on breakfast at the hotel before transferring to Garrapatero Beach, known for its pristine white sand, crystal clear waters, and nearby brackish lagoon. It’s one of the best spots within all the islands for viewing unique wildlife in a paradise setting. Enjoy time to snorkel secluded amid the calm waters, escape from the crowds, and feel as if you have a piece of this island to yourself.

Then, travel to a local organic coffee farm where you’ll learn about the plantations, the process involved in the cultivation of the product, and hear about the sustainable efforts being taken to protect the landscape and continue growing produce. An included lunch will be enjoyed onsite before your afternoon visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station. Observe the giant Galapagos tortoises here as you learn more about their journey from captivity to the wild. Finish off the day back at the hotel where there will be free time for some sightseeing and dinner on your own.

Prepare to experience what G Adventures does best and enjoy an epic day in Isabela with a surprise G twist occurring somewhere along the way. After breakfast the group will transfer from Santa Cruz to Isabela. Upon arrival you’ll visit "Tintoreras" or Shark Alley to observe the whitetip reef sharks found swimming in the channels between the rocks. Enjoy time to snorkel for a closer look at the wildlife below the surface, and view pelicans, frigatebirds, and diving blue-footed boobies above water.

Sit down for an included group lunch at a local restaurant on the island, and then hike the trails through the Humedales. This significant wetland area is home to island wildlife including flamingos, marine iguanas, different bird species, and all four native Galapagos mangrove species. Spend the day exploring the allure of Isabela and keep an eye out for a special surprise!

The key to a well-rounded solo experience is time to do your own thing. It’s built in here with a free day in Isabela that belongs entirely to you. Choose to visit Los Tuneles for a truly remarkable underwater snorkeling experience through the natural arches and tunnels made from volcanic lava formations or hike to the sulfur mines located within the crater of the active Sierra Negra volcano for a unique experience. In the afternoon your CEO will be leading a visit to the Breeding Centre and Flamingo Lagoon. Choose to join, or continue exploring the island of Isabela on your own. At night, partake in a hands-on cooking experience led by a local chef who will explain the importance of fresh ingredients throughout the islands and share some tips on how to master the preparation of ceviche.

• Los Tuneles Snorkelling: Grab your swimsuit, a snorkel, and head out to explore the waters to see what’s living under the sea. Head to Los Tuneles about a 40 minute boat ride away from Puerto Villamil. The lava formations and mangroves make this an ideal place for snorkeling. Keep an eye out for eagle rays, sea turtles and large schools of colourful fish. (140-150 USD per person)
• Hike to the Sulfur Mines: Enjoy a hike to the sulfur mines located on the western side of the active Sierra Negra Volcano, which has the world's second largest crater. The hike includes rocky paths and ancient lava formations.
• Flamingo Lagoon Visit: Spend some time exploring Isabela's natural attractions. Enjoy a walk to the largest coastal lagoon in the Galápagos, also a principal breeding ground for flamingos. Make stops along the way at a lookout point, and to visit natural pools, beaches, and mangrove swamps. Also stop along the way at the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre to see how these fascinating creatures are hatched, cared for and released into the wild in the ongoing efforts to protect the species.

In the morning board the boat to Floreana Island where you will enjoy lunch at the G Adventures-supported community restaurant there featuring local favorites and prepared by those who have spent up to three generations living on this island. Your meal contributes to the self-sufficiency of this project and supports members of this community. Afterwards, take a short walk to the nearby Black Beach to learn more about the support being provided here to the local residents through the restaurant and guesthouse while you also make your own cocktail beachside. From here the group will board the second boat of the day and travel to San Cristobal and enjoy free time for dinner and relaxing at the hotel.

Take advantage of a free morning on San Cristobal and perhaps choose to visit Kicker Rock, a renowned snorkelling and diving spot in the narrow channel created by a towering volcanic rock split in two, or opt to book the Isla Lobos Tour and view incredible marine life like sea lions, sea turtles, and colourful tropical fish, as well as seabirds.

In the afternoon stop by the Interpretation Centre on the island which provides visitors with a comprehensive educational experience about the history, geology, and unique wildlife of the Galapagos. Coupled with exhibits on Charles Darwin’s visits and stunning island views, this stop is an ideal location to honour the natural beauty and protection of this archipelago. Attend an optional dinner this evening with your fellow solo-ish travellers.

• Snorkelling (Isla Lobos): Snorkel the waters of peaceful Isla Lobos, amid the families of sea lions and their inquisitive pups looking to play. Spot nesting frigatebirds and the famous blue-footed boobies resting on the shore. Be sure to bring your camera to catch some snaps at this prime wildlife watching haven. (90-110 USD per person)
• Snorkelling (Kicker Rock): Embark on a snorkelling adventure at Kicker Rock, one of the most stunning landmarks in the Galápagos Islands that’s home to an incredibly diverse range of marine life that inhabits the nutrient-rich water. Explore the rock which rises 150m (492 ft) above the ocean's surface, and is divided into two parts by a narrow channel. See an array of sharks and fish that are drawn to the rock and provide for an exhilarating unique snorkelling experience. (140-160 USD per person)

Say goodbye to your solo-ish adventure on the Islands and take a flight back to the mainland from San Cristobal. Upon arrival the group will transfer to their nearby hotel and enjoy a free evening to relax, explore some of Quito on their own, or grab a bite to eat with your newest friends and debrief about your experiences. It’s the perfect way to wind down in preparation for returning home.

You arrived a solo traveller and are leaving with many new friends. Say goodbye to your fellow Solo-ish travellers and depart at any time.