Evolution’s Living Canvas
Galápagos Islands
May 29 to June 16, 2027
Private Trip Available Safari Overview
Set out on an unforgettable 15-day exploration of the Galápagos Islands, where every island tells a story of evolution and adaptation. Your adventure begins in Ecuador’s lush cloud forest, home to vibrant birdlife and towering canopy trees, before you fly to the islands to board the Samba, a comfortable, small-group yacht built for close-up encounters and access to remote sites beyond the reach of larger ships. Guided by a seasoned resident naturalist, experience the islands through early and late excursions designed to maximize wildlife viewing and photographic opportunities. Encounter Blue-footed Boobies, Waved Albatross, and Galápagos Penguins, and delight in the antics of sea lions and the graceful movements of reef sharks. Between landings, snorkel in turquoise waters teeming with marine life, from schools of colorful fish to rays and sea turtles gliding effortlessly through volcanic coves. Each day reveals another facet of this extraordinary archipelago, its rugged landscapes, rare species, and the powerful natural forces that continue to shape it. Whether you’re exploring on foot, underwater, or from the deck of the Samba, this voyage offers an intimate, once-in-a-lifetime immersion into one of the most remarkable ecosystems on our planet.
WHY CHOOSE THIS EXPEDITION?
- Comprehensive Galapagos Experience: Navigate 16 unique islands throughout this iconic archipelago, home to unique landscapes and fearless wildlife.
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant underwater world: Snorkel alongside playful sea lions, Galápagos Penguins, tropical fish, sharks, and rays, revealing the Galapagos’ thriving marine biodiversity.
- Experience nature’s dramatic courtships: Watch the Waved Albatross perform its intricate mating dance on Española, and admire the bold displays of Blue-footed Boobies and Balloon-throated Frigatebirds.
- Connect with Conservation at its source: At the Charles Darwin Research Station, get a behind-the-scenes look at efforts to protect giant tortoises and revive native ecosystems across the islands.
- Begin in Ecuador’s highland wilderness: Wander through mist-shrouded cloud forest alive with hummingbirds, orchids, and the rare Andean Cock-of-the-rock in one of the planet’s richest bird habitats.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Total immersion nature therapy! Two weeks in the Galapagos surrounded by wild beauty, accompanied by a fun group of fellow travelers, and led by the best guides ever (Juan and the outstanding crew of the Samba). ” – Georgia Struhsaker |
TRIP MAP
NOTABLE EXPERIENCES
Want to learn more? Check out our blog post from our 2023 trip!
Itinerary Updated: January 2026
Ship Info
| Date | Description | Lodge | Meals |
|---|---|---|---|
| May 29 | Welcome to Quito: Arrive in Ecuador’s capital and transfer to your hotel for rest and orientation. | Holiday Inn Quito Airport, Quito | |
| May 30 | Adventure into the Cloud Forest: Explore Yanacocha and the Old Nono-Mindo Road in search of the Andean Cock-of-the-rock. | Bellavista Cloud | B, L, D |
| May 31 | Morning Walk & Return to Quito: Enjoy birding at Bellavista Cloud Forest Lodge before returning to Quito. | Holiday Inn Quito Airport, Quito | B, L, D |
| Jun 1 | Let the Voyage Begin: Fly to the Galápagos and board the Samba, with your first landing on Mosquera Islet. | Aboard the Samba | B, L, D |
| Jun 2 | Genovesa: Anchor in Darwin Bay to snorkel, spot Darwin’s finches, and explore conservation efforts. | Aboard the Samba | B, L, D |
| Jun 3 | Marchena: Snorkel the rich waters around this remote island, frequented by whales and rarely visited. | Aboard the Samba | B, L, D |
| Jun 4 | Isabela – Punta Albermarle & Punta Vicente Roca: Observe Flightless Cormorants and snorkel in nutrient-rich waters. | Aboard the Samba | B, L, D |
| Jun 5 | Fernandina & Isabela – Punta Espinoza & Urbina Bay: Walk among marine iguanas and snorkel in uplifted reef zones. | Aboard the Samba | B, L, D |
| Jun 6 | Isabela – Elizabeth Bay & Punta Moreno: Drift through mangroves and explore lava fields with hidden lagoons. | Aboard the Samba | B, L, D |
| Jun 7 | Floreana – Post Office Bay & Champion Islet: Engage in postal tradition and search for seabirds and dolphins. | Aboard the Samba | B, L, D |
| Jun 8 | Santa Cruz – Highlands & Charles Darwin Research Station: See giant tortoises and learn about island conservation. | Aboard the Samba | B, L, D |
| Jun 9 | Floreana – Punta Cormorant & Devil’s Crown: Visit the flamingo lagoon and snorkel vibrant coral reefs. | Aboard the Samba | B, L, D |
| Jun 10 | Española – Punta Suárez & Gardner Bay: Walk among Waved Albatross and relax on white-sand beaches. | Aboard the Samba | B, L, D |
| Jun 11 | San Cristóbal – Punta Pitt, Cerro Brujo & Isla Lobos: Hike dramatic landscapes and snorkel in wildlife-rich waters. | Aboard the Samba | B, L, D |
| Jun 12 | Santa Fé & Plaza Sur: Spot Santa Fé land iguanas and enjoy colorful terrain teeming with wildlife. | Aboard the Samba | B, L, D |
| Jun 13 | Sombrero Chino & Bartolomé: Explore lava tubes and climb for iconic views of Pinnacle Rock. | Aboard the Samba | B, L, D |
| Jun 14 | Santiago – James Bay & Rábida: Discover tidal pools, Fur Seal Grotto, and Rábida’s red-sand beach. | Aboard the Samba | B |
| Jun 15 | Farewell to the Islands: Make a final landing at Seymour Norte before your return flight to Quito. | Holiday Inn Quito Airport, Quito | |
| Jun 16 | Depart for Home: Transfer to the airport with memories of an unforgettable journey. | B |
Get the Full Daily Itinerary
Our Trip Leaders
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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. | $12,550 |
| Upper Deck | Double occupancy, double bed, private bath, windows that open, closet, and drawers for storage. | $13,700 |
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 October 20, 2026, 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 October 20, 2026 | $300 (see terms above) |
| October 21 to November 20, 2026 | 10% of trip cost |
| November 21 to December 19, 2026 | 40% of trip cost |
| November 21 to December 19, 2026 | 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 May 29 through May 31 and June 15.
- Fourteen nights on board the Samba.
- Meals from breakfast on May 30 through breakfast on June 16, 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 time of booking. The estimated cost is $650.
- Passport and visa fees.
- Lunch and dinner on June 15.
- 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.
Flights you book
- Arrive in Quito, Ecuador (UIO) by 4:00pm on May 29.
- Depart from Quito, Ecuador (UIO) after 12:00am on June 16.
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.