Where Evolution Comes Alive
Galápagos Islands
April 29 to May 17, 2028
Private Trip Available Safari Overview
● Watch the Replay
Inside the Galápagos: A Live Evening with Juan Salcedo
Missed the live webinar? Watch the full recording now — Juan’s presentation, trip overview, and live Q&A all included.
1 hr 30 min · Free to watch · Questions? Email elizabeth@cheesemans.com
Discover the extraordinary wildlife and volcanic landscapes of the Galápagos Islands on this immersive 15-day expedition. Your adventure begins in Ecuador’s cloud forest, where colorful birds, orchids, and mist-covered trails offer a striking introduction to the country’s remarkable biodiversity. From there, fly to the Galápagos to board the Samba, an intimate expedition yacht with exceptional access to remote visitor sites beyond the reach of larger ships. Accompanied by an expert resident naturalist, explore the archipelago through morning and afternoon shore excursions timed to coincide with peak wildlife activity and optimal photography conditions. Each island reveals its own distinctive landscapes and endemic species — encounter nesting Blue-footed Boobies, soaring Waved Albatross, marine iguanas basking on lava rocks, Galápagos Penguins, and playful sea lions. Between landings, snorkel in clear waters alongside sea turtles, rays, reef fish, and reef sharks for a different perspective on the islands’ vibrant marine ecosystem. From ancient lava flows to up-close wildlife encounters, every day brings something new. Whether tracing the evolutionary processes that inspired Charles Darwin or simply watching a sea lion play in the surf, this carefully crafted voyage offers an intimate and enriching exploration of one of the world’s great wildlife destinations.
WHY CHOOSE THIS EXPEDITION?
- Explore the Galápagos in Depth: Sail around 16 remarkable islands offering distinct landscapes, endemic wildlife, and fascinating natural history.
- Jump into a Magical Marine World: Snorkel clear waters with playful sea lions, Galápagos Penguins, rays, reef sharks, sea turtles, and vibrant tropical fish in one of Earth’s richest marine ecosystems.
- Witness Iconic Wildlife Behaviors: Experience the spectacular courtship display of the Waved Albatross, as well as the marvelous displays of Blue-footed Boobies and Magnificent Frigatebirds.
- Learn from World-Renowned Conservation Efforts: Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to observe ongoing research and programs dedicated to protecting the Galápagos’ famous giant tortoises and preserving the archipelago’s unique biodiversity.
- Begin in Ecuador’s Enchanting Cloud Forest: Search for colorful hummingbirds, orchids, bromeliads, tanagers, and the striking Andean Cock-of-the-Rock in one of South America’s most biodiverse mountain ecosystems.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “We were very active every day and we saw a lot of wildlife. Each day we had a number of activities. We spent time hiking, kayaking and snorkeling. Snorkeling with penguins, sea lions, turtles, sharks, manta rays and a pod of hundreds of bottlenose dolphins as well as a wide variety of fish was a lot of fun. ” – Ken & Mary Campbell |
TRIP MAP
NOTABLE EXPERIENCES
Want to learn more? Check out our blog post from our 2023 trip!
Itinerary Updated: June 2026
Ship Info
| Date | Description | Lodge | Meals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 29 | Arrive in Quito. Welcome to Ecuador's capital. Transfer to your hotel to relax. | Holiday Inn Quito Airport, Quito | |
| Apr 20 | Cloud Forest Birding Exploration. Journey into the lush Tandayapa Valley, visiting Yanacocha and the Old Nono-Mindo Road, with the chance to observe the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock. | Bellavista Cloud Forest Lodge, Tandayapa | B, L, D |
| May 1 | Morning at Bellavista & Return to Quito. Enjoy one last morning around the lodge before returning to Quito with stops along the way. | Holiday Inn Quito Airport, Quito | B, L, D |
| May 2 | Fly to the Galápagos & Embark. Morning flight to the Galápagos, where you will board the Samba and begin your expedition on Mosquera Islet. | Aboard the Samba | B, L, D |
| May 3 | Genovesa. Explore Darwin's Bay seabird sanctuary, home to various bird species and excellent snorkeling. | Aboard the Samba | B, L, D |
| May 4 | Marchena. Visit one of the most remote islands, where pristine waters offer exceptional snorkeling with rays, turtles, and sharks. Keep an eye out for whales passing by. | Aboard the Samba | B, L, D |
| May 5 | Isabela. Search for flightless cormorants at Punta Albermarle, then discover the volcanic coastline of Punta Vicente Roca, home to Galápagos Penguins. | Aboard the Samba | B, L, D |
| May 6 | Fernandina & Isabela. Encounter Punta Espinoza's remarkable marine iguana colony, then continue to Urbina Bay for unique geology and outstanding snorkeling. | Aboard the Samba | B, L, D |
| May 7 | Isabela. Cruise mangrove-lined channels of Elizabeth Bay, before walking the lava fields and lagoons of Punta Moreno. | Aboard the Samba | B, L, D |
| May 8 | Floreana. Partake in a historic tradition at Post Office Bay, experience Floreana's highlands and wildlife-rich Champion Islet, before anchoring in Academy Bay. | Aboard the Samba | B, L, D |
| May 8 | Santa Cruz. Immerse yourself among giant tortoises in the highlands, before witnessing conservation work first-hand at the Charles Darwin Research Station. | Aboard the Samba | B, L, D |
| May 10 | Floreana. Trek to Punta Cormorant's Flamingo Lagoon, snorkel the vibrant Devil's Crown, and finish the day with sweeping views from Baroness Lookout. | Aboard the Samba | B, L, D |
| May 11 | Española. Discover Punta Suárez's Waved Albatross colony, the largest in the world, before snorkeling at Gardner Bay. | Aboard the Samba | B, L, D |
| May 12 | San Cristóbal. Venture to Punta Pitt, home to all three booby species, then continue to Cerro Brujo's white-sand beach, and snorkeling at Isla Lobos. | Aboard the Samba | B, L, D |
| May 13 | Santa Fé. Spend time with the unique Santa Fé land iguana before exploring the cliffs of Plaza Sur. | Aboard the Samba | B, L, D |
| May 14 | Sombrero Chino Islet & Bartolomé. Observe Sombrero Chino's lava formations, from land and sea. Climb the steps of Bartolomé for panoramic views of Pinnacle Rock. | Aboard the Samba | B, L, D |
| May 15 | Santiago & Rábida. Begin at the tidepools and Fur Seal Grotto before strolling Rábida's red beach. Enjoy your final night aboard the Samba. | Aboard the Samba | B, L, D |
| May 16 | Return to Quito. Disembark on Seymour Norte for one last morning with the wildlife before bidding the Galápagos farewell and flying back to Quito. | Holiday Inn Quito Airport, Quito | B |
| May 17 | Depart for Home. Transfer to the airport to begin your journey home. | B |
Get the Full Daily Itinerary
Our Trip Leaders
![]()
Juan Manuel Salcedo
Juan Manuel SalcedoJuan grew up in the Galapagos Islands where he developed his passion for wildlife while sailing on his father's boat. He received a degree from the University of San Francisco, Quito after studying Applied Ecology, Biology, and Geology. Juan also earned a skipper certificate after studying sailing and navigation in Los Angeles. Involvement in Environmental Education projects in the Galapagos Islands and on mainland Ecuador fills his spare time.
Ship Information
Samba
The Samba is a 78-foot steel-hulled motor yacht, built strong and stable to explore the Galápagos Islands in comfort. With her graceful European Dutch design, she combines performance, charm, and reliability for travelers seeking an intimate, immersive experience.
Her classic lines and high bow help her cut smoothly through ocean swells, ensuring a steadier ride in open waters. A stabilizing sail adds further balance, reducing motion while enhancing fuel efficiency and sailing performance. These features make the Samba ideal for reaching remote island shores and navigating with precision.
Designed for long-range ocean travel, she blends rugged construction with warm, welcoming interiors. Guests can relax and enjoy both safety and style on board. The yacht’s thoughtful layout provides excellent visibility from multiple vantage points, allowing for wildlife viewing throughout the journey.
The Samba hosts just 14 passengers, offering an exclusive, small-group experience far from crowded cruise ships. With fewer guests, the crew delivers personalized service, deeper exploration, and more time ashore. Her size and agility allow landings on smaller beaches and access to isolated coves.
Her decks provide great space for photography, birdwatching, and simply taking in the views. You’ll find comfortable cabins, cozy shared spaces, and opportunities to socialize or enjoy solitude.
Every element of Samba’s design supports the expedition spirit. Her hull handles ocean swells with ease, while her stabilizing sail keeps the voyage smooth. She’s a top choice for travelers who value sustainability, close wildlife encounters, and meaningful adventure.
Whether watching marine iguanas sunbathe or snorkeling alongside sea lions, your Galápagos experience will feel personal and profound aboard the Samba. It’s not just a cruise—it’s an intimate voyage through one of Earth’s most iconic natural wonders.
More Information
- Cost & Payments
- Included
- Not Included
- Climate
- Fitness Level
- Motion Sickness
- Flights
Conservation- Conditions
Cost & Payments
Costs (in US$)
| Type | Description | Cost Per Person |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Deck | Double occupancy, twin-sized upper and lower beds, private bath, and drawers for storage. | $13,300 |
| Upper Deck | Double occupancy, double bed, private bath, windows that open, closet, and drawers for storage. | $14,450 |
Costs are per person, depending on cabin type, double occupancy, not including airfare, singles extra. See Included and Not Included sections for more details.
If you are a single traveler, we will try to find a roommate for you, but if we cannot pair you with a roommate, we will not charge you a single supplement. If space is available, some cabins can be booked as a single by adding 90% over the listed cabin cost.
We cannot guarantee a specific cabin number, but if changes occur, we will assign a cabin of equal or greater value.
Payment Schedule
| Payment | Due Date | Amount Per Person |
|---|---|---|
| Deposit | Due now to reserve your space | $500 |
| Final | December 20, 2026 | Remaining balance |
Payments are due based on the schedule above. All reservations require a deposit to confirm reservation of your space.
Cancellations
Refunds are given depending on the time left before departure according to the following table. Through September 21, 2027, the cancellation fee of $300 per person can be applied toward another trip if reserved within six months of the canceled trip’s departure date. Cancellations are non-transferable.
| Dates | Forfeited Amount per Person |
|---|---|
| On or before September 21, 2027 | $300 (see terms above) |
| September 22 to October 21, 2027 | 10% of trip cost |
| October 22 to November 20, 2027 | 40% of trip cost |
| On or after November 21, 2027 | 100% of trip cost |
Included
- Carbon offsets for the duration of this trip.
- All leaders, transport, landing fees, and permits for all activities unless described as optional.
- Accommodations on mainland Ecuador for the nights of April 29 through May 1 and May 16.
- Fourteen nights on board the Samba.
- Meals from breakfast on April 30 through breakfast on May 17, except meals listed in Not Included section.
- Complimentary hotel airport shuttle between the Quito Airport and the Holiday Inn Quito Airport.
- Snorkel gear and full-length wetsuit on the Samba.
- The Galápagos National Park Entrance Fee and Transit Control Card.
- The Government of Ecuador fuel tax, which applies to most Galápagos vessels, does not apply to the Samba because it is a smaller, locally based, fuel-efficient vessel, using less than 3,000 gallons of diesel per month.
- Trip Planning Materials – information about entry requirements, flights, packing, gratuities, etc.
Not Included
- Carbon offsets for your flights to/from this trip.
- All airfare, airport and departure taxes, and excess baggage fees. The round-trip flights between Quito and Baltra will be added to your trip balance based on rates at the time of booking. The estimated cost is $650.
- Passport and visa fees.
- Lunch and dinner on May 16.
- Divergent airport transfers and extra hotel nights.
- Gratuities.
- Mandatory emergency evacuation insurance.
- Optional trip cancellation insurance.
- Items of a personal nature such as laundry, telephone calls, medical costs or hospitalization, room service, alcoholic and other beverages, items not on the regular menu, etc. If you have special dietary needs, please indicate them on your Traveler Form.
Climate
Average temperatures range from the low to mid-60s°F (15 to 18°C) at night up to the 80s°F (26 to 31°C) during the day. The water temperature averages 70 to 74°F (21 to 23°C). Average temperatures during your mainland excursion range from nighttime lows in the 50s°F (10 to 15°C) to mid 60s°F (18°C) to daytime highs from mid 60s°F (18°C) to low 80s°F (26°C).
Fitness Level
Walks on shore vary from short strolls on the beach to a few miles over uneven terrain. If you are not accustomed to walking long distances, you will still enjoy most activities as your pace allows you to see, appreciate, and photograph the unique nature of the Galápagos. If you anticipate struggling with the walks, do some hiking beforehand to get in good shape. You must be comfortable going up and down stairs on board getting in and out of the panga (small boat). You must be able to climb in and out of a top bunk with or without the assistance of a ladder. If this is something you cannot do or are concerned about, please let us know so we can help to accommodate you.
Although snorkeling is not mandatory, it is a significant part of the voyage as you are in the water every day, sometimes twice a day. Even though you do not have to have snorkeling experience, proficient swimming abilities will allow you to fully enjoy this activity. Most snorkeling will be panga-based, sometimes over deep water, which is not an ideal place to learn to snorkel, especially if you are uncomfortable or intimidated by these conditions. It’s beneficial to get some experience in advance, however, the Samba crew will always assist you. Please contact us if you have any health concerns that may make this trip challenging.
When you fill in your Traveler Form, please respond to the following:
- Describe how confident you feel about being in the water for at least an hour.
- Tell us how often you carry the same gear you plan to take out in your day pack (photography gear, binoculars, etc.).
- Tell us how you’ve managed walking in hot and humid conditions and sometime on rough terrain.
Flights
Detailed logistical information is included in the Trip Planning Materials we will send you.
Please wait to book your flights until you receive confirmation from your Coordinator that the minimum number of participants has been met to operate the trip. If you choose to book flights before receiving this confirmation, we strongly recommend purchasing flight cancellation insurance to protect your investment.
Flights you book
- Arrive in Quito, Ecuador (UIO) by 4:00pm on April 29.
- Depart from Quito, Ecuador (UIO) after 12:00am on May 17.
Flights we book
- The round-trip flights between Quito and Baltra; we’ll add the flight cost to your final trip balance.
FAQ
Accommodations
Motion Sickness
Don’t let a fear of motion sickness keep you away! Even those who have experienced seasickness reported that the incredible wildlife and overall experience were well worth the temporary discomfort. If you are susceptible to seasickness or are concerned that you might be, please come prepared! The key to avoiding seasickness is to act before you experience nausea. Do your own research and consult your doctor before taking any medications. A good night of sleep, eating well, limiting alcohol, and using your favorite seasickness remedy is sufficient for most travelers. Find more information on our Coping with Seasickness webpage (this information is applicable to any form of motion sickness) and contact us if you have any questions.
Transportation
Conservation
Our company ethos has always regarded conservation as inseparable from responsible tourism. We struggle with the dilemma that traveling worldwide expends climate-changing carbon. However, we wholeheartedly believe that traveling with us will cultivate your passion for conserving our beautiful world while stimulating each destination’s local economy. We encourage you to explore the various ways in which Cheesemans’ operates within this context:
- Ecotourism and Conservation for the Galapagos Islands
- Cheesemans’ Trips are Carbon Neutral
- Offsetting your Travel to/from our Trip: We ask you to pledge to offset the carbon emissions for your travel to and from our trips. Use this tool to calculate your emissions and purchase your carbon offset today through Sustainable Travel International, or through your favorite carbon offsetting organization.
Conditions
Read our current Terms and Conditions.