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Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

Galápagos Islands: Natural Treasures & Amazing Wonders

Program No. 23384RJ
Discover the Galápagos Islands at a leisurely pace as expert naturalists immerse you in the ever-evolving story of one of the world’s iconic ecosystems.

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At a Glance

Sail among the Galápagos Islands aboard a 301-foot expedition ship to uncover the true character of this pristine archipelago at a more sedate pace. On each island, set out on leisurely walks with expert naturalists who joyously narrate the island's stories, starring a unique cast of animals that have captured the imagination of nature lovers around the world. Then, experience life below the water first-hand with gentle opportunities to swim and snorkel among thriving coral reefs as marine iguanas feast on the sea floor and sea lions playfully glide through the surf.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Daily walks up to 2 miles/2.5 hours at a time on varied terrain, including sharp volcanic stones and loose rocks. Intermittent periods of standing. Wet and dry Zodiac/panga landings onshore. Potentially rough waters during Zodiac/panga transfers between ship and shore. Daily deep-water and/or beach snorkeling. Decks on the M/V Legend are connected by stairs with railings. Program not recommended for participants with walkers/rollators or wheelchairs due to lack of handicap accessible locations in the Galapagos and limited space on the bus.
Small Group
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

What You'll Learn

  • Explore the Galápagos Island’s unique volcanic formations on naturalist-led walks while watching for endemic species including Galápagos penguins and marine iguanas.
  • Swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear coves and inlets among resident sea lions, pelicans and flamingos.
  • Walk in the footsteps of Charles Darwin at the Charles Darwin Research Station and learn their biological research and conservation efforts — including the station’s tortoise breeding projects.

General Notes

Actual cruise itinerary and islands visited are assigned by the Galapágos National Park and can be changed without prior notice. Please refer to the date-specific detailed itinerary on the Road Scholar to check on the visitor sites included in your program.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
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Alejandra Mosquera
Alejandra Mosquera has been a certified Ecuadorian expedition leader since 2006. The pride and love she feels for her country’s cultural heritage and stunning Andean landscapes are clear to see in her work and personal life. Alejandra has a unique gift for making learning fun — delivering information with personal warmth and humor. She looks forward to hosting Road Scholars and introducing some of her country’s many wonders.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Alejandra Mosquera
Alejandra Mosquera View biography
Alejandra Mosquera has been a certified Ecuadorian expedition leader since 2006. The pride and love she feels for her country’s cultural heritage and stunning Andean landscapes are clear to see in her work and personal life. Alejandra has a unique gift for making learning fun — delivering information with personal warmth and humor. She looks forward to hosting Road Scholars and introducing some of her country’s many wonders.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Meals
27 Meals
10 Breakfasts
8 Lunches
9 Dinners
The following choices may be available when requested in advance: Vegetarian, Gluten Free, Low Salt, Low Fat
Lodging
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Display
Dec 06, 2025 - Dec 16, 2025
  • Dec 06, 2025 - Dec 16, 2025
  • Aug 17, 2024 - Aug 27, 2024
  • Oct 12, 2024 - Oct 22, 2024
  • Nov 09, 2024 - Nov 19, 2024
  • Dec 07, 2024 - Dec 17, 2024
  • Jan 07, 2025 - Jan 17, 2025
  • Feb 01, 2025 - Feb 11, 2025
  • Feb 22, 2025 - Mar 04, 2025
  • Mar 01, 2025 - Mar 11, 2025
  • Mar 29, 2025 - Apr 08, 2025
  • Apr 12, 2025 - Apr 22, 2025
  • May 10, 2025 - May 20, 2025
  • Aug 02, 2025 - Aug 12, 2025
  • Oct 11, 2025 - Oct 21, 2025
  • Nov 08, 2025 - Nov 18, 2025
  • Dec 06, 2025 - Dec 16, 2025
3 nights
Guayaquil
Oro Verde Hotel Guayaquil is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World in Ecuador. Strategically located in the downtown commercial and banking heart of the city and only eight minutes from the José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport.
7 nights
Quito
Kleintour's MV Galapagos Legend is an expedition-style vessel with the intimacy of a small ship. Most recently remodeled in 2017, it can accommodate up to 100 guests in 52 oceanview cabins. Each cabin includes updated furniture, panoramic windows, special bedding and en suite bathrooms. This four-deck ship has an onboard naturalist team and naturalist center, an observation deck, swimming pool, panoramic lounge, sun terrace, science center, fitness lounge, Jacuzzi, snorkeling equipment, restaurant, bars and space for al fresco dining.
3 nights
Guayaquil
Oro Verde Hotel Guayaquil is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World in Ecuador. Strategically located in the downtown commercial and banking heart of the city and only eight minutes from the José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport.
7 nights
Quito
Kleintour's MV Galapagos Legend is an expedition-style vessel with the intimacy of a small ship. Most recently remodeled in 2017, it can accommodate up to 100 guests in 52 oceanview cabins. Each cabin includes updated furniture, panoramic windows, special bedding and en suite bathrooms. This four-deck ship has an onboard naturalist team and naturalist center, an observation deck, swimming pool, panoramic lounge, sun terrace, science center, fitness lounge, Jacuzzi, snorkeling equipment, restaurant, bars and space for al fresco dining.
3 nights
Guayaquil
Oro Verde Hotel Guayaquil is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World in Ecuador. Strategically located in the downtown commercial and banking heart of the city and only eight minutes from the José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport.
7 nights
Quito
Kleintour's MV Galapagos Legend is an expedition-style vessel with the intimacy of a small ship. Most recently remodeled in 2017, it can accommodate up to 100 guests in 52 oceanview cabins. Each cabin includes updated furniture, panoramic windows, special bedding and en suite bathrooms. This four-deck ship has an onboard naturalist team and naturalist center, an observation deck, swimming pool, panoramic lounge, sun terrace, science center, fitness lounge, Jacuzzi, snorkeling equipment, restaurant, bars and space for al fresco dining.
3 nights
Guayaquil
Oro Verde Hotel Guayaquil is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World in Ecuador. Strategically located in the downtown commercial and banking heart of the city and only eight minutes from the José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport.
7 nights
Quito
Kleintour's MV Galapagos Legend is an expedition-style vessel with the intimacy of a small ship. Most recently remodeled in 2017, it can accommodate up to 100 guests in 52 oceanview cabins. Each cabin includes updated furniture, panoramic windows, special bedding and en suite bathrooms. This four-deck ship has an onboard naturalist team and naturalist center, an observation deck, swimming pool, panoramic lounge, sun terrace, science center, fitness lounge, Jacuzzi, snorkeling equipment, restaurant, bars and space for al fresco dining.
3 nights
Guayaquil
Oro Verde Hotel Guayaquil is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World in Ecuador. Strategically located in the downtown commercial and banking heart of the city and only eight minutes from the José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport.
7 nights
Quito
Kleintour's MV Galapagos Legend is an expedition-style vessel with the intimacy of a small ship. Most recently remodeled in 2017, it can accommodate up to 100 guests in 52 oceanview cabins. Each cabin includes updated furniture, panoramic windows, special bedding and en suite bathrooms. This four-deck ship has an onboard naturalist team and naturalist center, an observation deck, swimming pool, panoramic lounge, sun terrace, science center, fitness lounge, Jacuzzi, snorkeling equipment, restaurant, bars and space for al fresco dining.
3 nights
Guayaquil
Oro Verde Hotel Guayaquil is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World in Ecuador. Strategically located in the downtown commercial and banking heart of the city and only eight minutes from the José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport.
7 nights
Quito
Kleintour's MV Galapagos Legend is an expedition-style vessel with the intimacy of a small ship. Most recently remodeled in 2017, it can accommodate up to 100 guests in 52 oceanview cabins. Each cabin includes updated furniture, panoramic windows, special bedding and en suite bathrooms. This four-deck ship has an onboard naturalist team and naturalist center, an observation deck, swimming pool, panoramic lounge, sun terrace, science center, fitness lounge, Jacuzzi, snorkeling equipment, restaurant, bars and space for al fresco dining.
3 nights
Guayaquil
Oro Verde Hotel Guayaquil is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World in Ecuador. Strategically located in the downtown commercial and banking heart of the city and only eight minutes from the José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport.
7 nights
Quito
Kleintour's MV Galapagos Legend is an expedition-style vessel with the intimacy of a small ship. Most recently remodeled in 2017, it can accommodate up to 100 guests in 52 oceanview cabins. Each cabin includes updated furniture, panoramic windows, special bedding and en suite bathrooms. This four-deck ship has an onboard naturalist team and naturalist center, an observation deck, swimming pool, panoramic lounge, sun terrace, science center, fitness lounge, Jacuzzi, snorkeling equipment, restaurant, bars and space for al fresco dining.
3 nights
Guayaquil
Oro Verde Hotel Guayaquil is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World in Ecuador. Strategically located in the downtown commercial and banking heart of the city and only eight minutes from the José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport.
7 nights
Quito
Kleintour's MV Galapagos Legend is an expedition-style vessel with the intimacy of a small ship. Most recently remodeled in 2017, it can accommodate up to 100 guests in 52 oceanview cabins. Each cabin includes updated furniture, panoramic windows, special bedding and en suite bathrooms. This four-deck ship has an onboard naturalist team and naturalist center, an observation deck, swimming pool, panoramic lounge, sun terrace, science center, fitness lounge, Jacuzzi, snorkeling equipment, restaurant, bars and space for al fresco dining.
3 nights
Guayaquil
Oro Verde Hotel Guayaquil is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World in Ecuador. Strategically located in the downtown commercial and banking heart of the city and only eight minutes from the José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport.
7 nights
Quito
Kleintour's MV Galapagos Legend is an expedition-style vessel with the intimacy of a small ship. Most recently remodeled in 2017, it can accommodate up to 100 guests in 52 oceanview cabins. Each cabin includes updated furniture, panoramic windows, special bedding and en suite bathrooms. This four-deck ship has an onboard naturalist team and naturalist center, an observation deck, swimming pool, panoramic lounge, sun terrace, science center, fitness lounge, Jacuzzi, snorkeling equipment, restaurant, bars and space for al fresco dining.
3 nights
Guayaquil
Oro Verde Hotel Guayaquil is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World in Ecuador. Strategically located in the downtown commercial and banking heart of the city and only eight minutes from the José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport.
7 nights
Quito
Kleintour's MV Galapagos Legend is an expedition-style vessel with the intimacy of a small ship. Most recently remodeled in 2017, it can accommodate up to 100 guests in 52 oceanview cabins. Each cabin includes updated furniture, panoramic windows, special bedding and en suite bathrooms. This four-deck ship has an onboard naturalist team and naturalist center, an observation deck, swimming pool, panoramic lounge, sun terrace, science center, fitness lounge, Jacuzzi, snorkeling equipment, restaurant, bars and space for al fresco dining.
3 nights
Guayaquil
Oro Verde Hotel Guayaquil is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World in Ecuador. Strategically located in the downtown commercial and banking heart of the city and only eight minutes from the José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport.
7 nights
Quito
Kleintour's MV Galapagos Legend is an expedition-style vessel with the intimacy of a small ship. Most recently remodeled in 2017, it can accommodate up to 100 guests in 52 oceanview cabins. Each cabin includes updated furniture, panoramic windows, special bedding and en suite bathrooms. This four-deck ship has an onboard naturalist team and naturalist center, an observation deck, swimming pool, panoramic lounge, sun terrace, science center, fitness lounge, Jacuzzi, snorkeling equipment, restaurant, bars and space for al fresco dining.
3 nights
Guayaquil
Oro Verde Hotel Guayaquil is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World in Ecuador. Strategically located in the downtown commercial and banking heart of the city and only eight minutes from the José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport.
7 nights
Quito
Kleintour's MV Galapagos Legend is an expedition-style vessel with the intimacy of a small ship. Most recently remodeled in 2017, it can accommodate up to 100 guests in 52 oceanview cabins. Each cabin includes updated furniture, panoramic windows, special bedding and en suite bathrooms. This four-deck ship has an onboard naturalist team and naturalist center, an observation deck, swimming pool, panoramic lounge, sun terrace, science center, fitness lounge, Jacuzzi, snorkeling equipment, restaurant, bars and space for al fresco dining.
3 nights
Guayaquil
Oro Verde Hotel Guayaquil is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World in Ecuador. Strategically located in the downtown commercial and banking heart of the city and only eight minutes from the José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport.
7 nights
Quito
Kleintour's MV Galapagos Legend is an expedition-style vessel with the intimacy of a small ship. Most recently remodeled in 2017, it can accommodate up to 100 guests in 52 oceanview cabins. Each cabin includes updated furniture, panoramic windows, special bedding and en suite bathrooms. This four-deck ship has an onboard naturalist team and naturalist center, an observation deck, swimming pool, panoramic lounge, sun terrace, science center, fitness lounge, Jacuzzi, snorkeling equipment, restaurant, bars and space for al fresco dining.
3 nights
Guayaquil
Oro Verde Hotel Guayaquil is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World in Ecuador. Strategically located in the downtown commercial and banking heart of the city and only eight minutes from the José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport.
7 nights
Quito
Kleintour's MV Galapagos Legend is an expedition-style vessel with the intimacy of a small ship. Most recently remodeled in 2017, it can accommodate up to 100 guests in 52 oceanview cabins. Each cabin includes updated furniture, panoramic windows, special bedding and en suite bathrooms. This four-deck ship has an onboard naturalist team and naturalist center, an observation deck, swimming pool, panoramic lounge, sun terrace, science center, fitness lounge, Jacuzzi, snorkeling equipment, restaurant, bars and space for al fresco dining.
3 nights
Guayaquil
Oro Verde Hotel Guayaquil is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World in Ecuador. Strategically located in the downtown commercial and banking heart of the city and only eight minutes from the José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport.
7 nights
Quito
Kleintour's MV Galapagos Legend is an expedition-style vessel with the intimacy of a small ship. Most recently remodeled in 2017, it can accommodate up to 100 guests in 52 oceanview cabins. Each cabin includes updated furniture, panoramic windows, special bedding and en suite bathrooms. This four-deck ship has an onboard naturalist team and naturalist center, an observation deck, swimming pool, panoramic lounge, sun terrace, science center, fitness lounge, Jacuzzi, snorkeling equipment, restaurant, bars and space for al fresco dining.





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