Overview
Our program brings you the best of both worlds: the consistency you rely on and the flexibility your group needs.
Immerse your students in the lush natural beauty of the Galápagos on this exciting journey. You’ll begin in Quito, where your students will visit important landmarks including Iglesia San Francisco and explore the La Mariscal craft market. Your group can also look forward to visiting the Twin Craters, hiking to Sierra Negra Volcano, snorkeling off the coast of Las Tintoreras, and touring the Darwin Research Station.
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 Santa Cruz
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.
Highlands of the Island visit
View lava tunnels
Day 4
Transfer to Isabela Island via boat
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
Flamingo Lake walk
To the west of Puerto Villamil, a series of salt and brackish lagoons host an impressive variety of coastal and sea birds. This area is also home to the largest concentration of flamingos in the Galápagos.
Day 5
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 6
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.
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 7
Transfer to Baltra Island via Itabaca Canal
Fly to Quito
Day 8
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.
Day 9
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.