Overview
Our program brings you the best of both worlds: the consistency you rely on and the flexibility your group needs.
Hit the ground running on this thrilling exploration of the Galápagos. Your students will hike along the colourful path to El Junco Lake, snorkel among graceful rays, seals, and tropical fish, and take in the view from the hike to Los Gemelos. Your group will also visit a tortoise breeding and conservation centre, see giant tortoises in their natural habitat at Primicias Ranch, and relax on pristine beaches.
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive in Quito
Meet your Tour Director
Your 24-hour Tour Director will meet you at the airport and remain with your group until your final airport departure.
Day 2
Quito guided sightseeing tour
Independence Plaza, Palacio de Carondelet, San Francisco Church visit, Mitad del Mundo visit
Day 3
Fly to San Cristóbal Island
Interpretation Centre visit
Discover the rich human and natural history of the Galápagos Islands through engaging exhibits and stories.
Tijeretas Bay excursion
Take a coastal hike of Tijeretas Bay and observe frigatebirds, rays, sea lions, and other wildlife.
Playa Mann beach time
Day 4
La Galapaguera visit
This tortoise breeding and conservation centre is dedicated to increasing the population of the island’s vulnerable tortoises. Follow a winding trail through a spacious park where giant tortoises roam freely, then visit the pens where younger tortoises are grouped by age before being released into the wild.
Hike to El Junco Lake
Walk among lush green ferns and watch as White-cheeked Pintails and colourful Gallinules swoop and swim around you in one of the few freshwater lakes in the Galápagos.
La Loberia Beach excursion
Snorkel at La Loberia Beach and spot sea lions, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and lava lizards.
Day 5
Transfer to Isabela Island via boat
Primicias Ranch visit
At Primicias Ranch, you’ll walk alongside Galápagos giant tortoises as they roam freely through their natural habitat. These gentle giants can weigh up to 660 pounds and live for more than 150 years. Seeing them up close is a rare and unforgettable experience, especially knowing how far conservation efforts have come to protect this iconic species.
View lava tunnels
Day 6
Sierra Negra Volcano guided hike
Enjoy an excursion to Sierra Negra Volcano, one of the most active volcanoes in the Galápagos. Located 13 miles from Puerto Villamil, it features the second largest volcanic caldera in the world, measuring six miles across and 300 feet deep. The last eruption occurred in 2005, and the views from the rim are truly unforgettable.
Puerto Villamil beach time
Day 7
Travel to Tintoreras via boat
Las Tintoreras visit
On Las Tintoreras, you’ll embark on a guided wildlife walk along lava-strewn trails and turquoise coastlines. The path winds through habitats teeming with marine iguanas basking on the rocks and colourful Sally Lightfoot crabs scuttling across the shore. With a bit of luck, Galápagos penguins may dart through the water or perch curiously nearby, offering rare close-up sightings. It’s a serene yet thrilling experience where every glance reveals a new marvel of nature.
Snorkeling adventure
Snorkel in the clear blue waters and learn to identify the many varieties of fish while studying their marine habitats. Reflect on the threat climate change poses to these vital ecosystems. As you explore around Las Tintoreras, you may encounter graceful gliding rays, playful seals, colourful iguanas, and vibrant tropical fish—an unforgettable underwater adventure.
Wetlands visit
On this excursion, you will visit Playa del Amor, explore island estuary tunnels, and visit the Wall of Tears, a historic site commemorating Isabela Island’s history as a penal colony.
Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre guided visit
Day 8
Transfer to Santa Cruz Island via boat
Darwin Research Station guided visit
Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island, where decades of scientific work have helped protect the Galápagos’ rarest species. Observe giant tortoises bred for survival, explore exhibits on marine conservation, and witness the legacy of evolution in the very place that inspired it.
Day 9
Transfer to Baltra Island via Itabaca Canal
Twin Craters visit
Los Gemelos, or the Twin Craters, sit opposite each other along the road from Puerto Ayora to Baltra. Though not true craters, these formations were created by the collapse of surface material into underground fissures and chambers. After a moderate hike, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view.
Fly to Quito
Day 10
La Mariscal artisanal craft market visit
A visit to La Mariscal market is a must for anyone looking for a souvenir or a gift to bring home. Filled with crafts and specialties from across Ecuador, the market dazzles with displays of blankets, paintings, jewelry, bags, flutes, chocolate, and more.
Fly home
Your return flight departs overnight, with arrival home the next day.
Day 11
Return home
TourFlex: Your Experience, Your Way
With TourFlex, available for tours departing October 2027 or later, you get the flexibility to shape an itinerary that's as unique as your group. Dial your trip up or down for more choice, more control, and more unforgettable hands-on moments, all while getting the right experience at the right value. Available options vary by program and destination.
Explore Your Way
- Add experiences like theatre tickets or unique excursions
- Swap activities for ones that better serve your group
- Extend the learning through go-aheads or stay-behinds
Go Your Way
- Choose the most accessible departure airport for your group
- Opt for 2-, 3-, or 4-star hotels that are centrally located or a convenient ride to major itinerary attractions
Dine Your Way
- Opt for pre-selected meals or encourage exploration by dining on your own
- Enjoy 2-3 course, culturally representative meals or opt for 3-course, authentic dinners at local restaurants
Already Included
WorldStrides Tour Director: A dynamic destination expert who makes learning come to life by leading your group's activities and discussions.
Transportation to & from your destination
Hotel accommodations
Daily meals, with options varying by program (ask your Program Consultant for details)
Admissions to top attractions (details in itinerary)
Guided sightseeing tours & city walks (details in itinerary)
Tips for local guides and drivers (excluding full-day bus drivers and Tour Director)
WorldAssist staff members available 24/7/365 should your group need extra help
Scenes from the Galápagos Islands
Health & Safety
Additional health and safety measures may be available within your respective destination. Refer to your program-specific materials for complete details.
Financial Assistance
Financial Assistance
Through the WorldStrides Canada Financial Assistance Program (FAP), we provide travel grants to elementary and secondary school facing financial hardship. These grants, which can be up to $250 for coach tours and up to $1,000 for flight tours, are designed to make our programs more accessible to students from all backgrounds. Interested families are encouraged to speak with their school to learn more about our confidential application process.
Payment Plans
Monthly Automated Plan
Enroll with a deposit of $99 plus the cost of your travel protection plan (if included). We’ll automatically debit the rest of your tour fee from your chequing account in equal monthly payments, with the final payment due 35 days before you travel.
Please note: If two consecutive payments are declined, your account will be moved to the 4-Step Manual Plan.
4-Step Manual Plan
Manage your payments manually with a $249 initial payment plus your travel protection plan costs (if included). You’ll then make three more payments at key milestones as your departure date approaches. The final balance is due 65 days before your trip.
Please note: Payments on this plan are not automatically deducted and must be made manually.
Fundraising Tools
We are committed to helping you make your educational travel dreams a reality. We offer a comprehensive Fundraising Guide packed with creative ideas, tips, and resources to help you and your students reach your fundraising goals. From setting a timeline to brainstorming innovative campaigns, our guide provides a structured approach to make fundraising a fun and engaging experience for everyone involved.
