Natural history is alive in the Galapagos on this 10-day family adventure. Mystical landscapes are explored, unique wildlife is encountered, and a variety of activities allow the family to explore their own piece of the archipelago. This family vacation trip to Galapagos Islands is handcrafted and combines a traditional cruise with time discovering the Andes. Snorkel with penguins, sunbathe beside sea lions, hike volcanic history, and discover a breathtaking world.
Customizable Itinerary
Day 1
Quito – Arriving in an Ancient City
The old city of Quito leaves history hanging from balconies and courtyards. Located in a compact central area, you'll find the largest collection of Spanish colonial buildings anywhere in South America. Church domes glimmer with their 16th century Moorish roots, historic bishops' palaces have been converted into shopping and dining arcades while pastel-colored streets mingle five centuries of tales. After landing at Quito International, you'll be greeted by your guide and transferred to a hotel in the old city. Check-in and relax. The whole area is very safe and easy to walk as a family.
What's Included:
Day 2
Quito – Relaxed Quito City Tour
Day 3
Quito – Zip Lining and Hiking Through the Cloud Forest in Mindo
Day 4
Quito – Walking on Volcanic Slopes and Visiting the Middle of the World
Day 5
Galapagos Cruise – Spectacular Bird Nesting Sites on North Seymour
Day 6
Galapagos Cruise – An Incredible Underwater World in the Western Galapagos
Day 7
Galapagos Cruise – Swimming with Penguins and Sea Lions
Day 8
Galapagos Cruise – Intimate Encounters with Giant Tortoises on Santa Cruz
Day 9
Galapagos Cruise – Iconic and Endemic Specialties on Floreana
Day 10
Quito – Depart for Home
Trip Highlights
- Discover the Galapagos archipelago with a 6-day cruise on the new Santa Cruz II, a spacious and comfortable boat that's ideal for family travel
- Explore a Galapagos world above and below the water with seven naturalist guides and a selection of activities
- Marvel at the mating displays of iconic birds, stand beside giant tortoises, find fur seals on the beach, and hike along stunning volcanic cliffs
- Snorkel with sea lions and penguins and enjoy a glass-bottom boat ride to see different species of sharks and rays
- Visit the true middle of the Earth and photograph the family straddling the Equator line
- Hike on the slopes of a dormant volcano and zip line through the cloud forest of Mindo, two outdoor activities for your time in Quito
- Discover the charms of the world's first-ever World Heritage Site with a walking tour of Quito
Starting Price
$13,900 per person (excluding international flights)
What's Included
- Accommodations
- In-country transportation
- Some or all activities and tours
- Expert trip planning
- 24x7 support during your trip
Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.
Reviews of Zicasso's Referral Service
4.89 stars based on 253 reviews.
Overall, the trip was outstanding. It was on our bucket list for a long time and it lived up to all expectations. Zicasso's tour company and travel agent were very knowledgeable and helped plan all the details. As with all travel, there were a few small things that came up, but they resolved the issues quickly and effectively. I would highly recommend this travel agency.
Reviewed By Jesse D.
Zicasso's travel expert did an excellent job coordinating all the details of our side trip to the Amazon and on to the Galápagos. This was our third trip arranged by Zicasso. Having the ability to talk with someone in the travel location about our interests and getting recommendations is a great experience.
Reviewed By Edward C.
Our trip from start to finish was absolutely fantastic. The Amazon jungle was a blast. I paid for an extra full-day excursion to fish for piranhas, which was definitely a great decision and one of the highlights of our trip (we had the piranhas for lunch, and they were delicious).
The Sacred Valley, Cusco, and Machu Picchu were fabulous. And then, the Galápagos were extraordinary, from the unexpected serenity of the place to the crew of the boat, and, of course, the proximity to wildlife, including snorkeling with sea lions. It was especially meaningful to be in these places with our entire family (10 of us). Everyone understood how special it was and we will all cherish the experience all of our lives.
The Zicasso travel company was fantastic from start to finish. Our travel specialist went far beyond the call of duty to help us, especially when one family members could not make the trip. He helped us with replacing that person with another. He was remarkably prompt, clear, and informative in all communications, both in planning the trip and during it. He has a very kind heart and is a great human being. I cannot say enough positive things about him.
Reviewed By bradley P.
The trip was amazing and exceeded our expectations! We loved everything about it. Working with Zicasso's travel specialists was so great. The team was so fast responding on everything and so helpful during the planning stage, preparation stage, and even while we were in Ecuador. We could not have asked for a better partner!
Reviewed By Wendy+Andrew S.
Zicasso's trip planner is excellent! She planned a personalized itinerary for me and my family, with activities for all different ages in our travel group. We truly enjoyed our experience in Quito and the Galápagos Islands.
Our tour guide did a wonderful job taking us around Quito and ensuring we got to fully experience the city (including historical landmarks and local spots). In addition, one of our family members had altitude sickness and he put a lot of effort into helping her get assistance and even medical care in the airport.
Five stars for our agent and our guide.
Reviewed By Usha R.
Our trip was beyond awesome. We made memories for a lifetime in Peru and the Galápagos Islands. Standing on the equator in Quito and the different experiments on the equator were a hit with kids and adults alike. There was excellent planning and execution by our Zicasso travel specialists. All the guides and excursions were great and we made good friends with them. They went above and beyond to recover our (lost/forgotten) items in a hotel and plane. Two thumbs up.
Reviewed By Uday P.