Galapagos Islands Lodge to Lodge

Galapagos Islands Lodge to Lodge

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7 AM to 5 PM Pacific Time

Trip Reviews

Price:

Galapagos Islands Lodge to Lodge —

See Prices tab.

Additional Fees

Internal airfare: $545

Galapagos National Park fee: $100

Transit fee: $10

Single supplement: Varies based on program length.

Holiday surcharge: December departures subject to a 10% holiday surcharge.

Additional fees subject to change.

Child discount: 25% discount for children under 10 years old.

Trip Dates:

2013/2014

Galapagos Islands Lodge to Lodge —

Daily departures.


More great trips like this:
Galapagos Islands Cruise
Galapagos Islands & Otovalo Multisport

Total Days: 5, 6 or 8
Group Size: 4-8

Activities:

  • Walking
  • Snorkeling
  • Wildlife Viewing

Accommodations:

Comfortable hotel rooms with private baths.

Galapagos Islands Lodge to Lodge

Located 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador is an ecosystem among the most unique and prolific in the world: the Galapagos Islands. This magnificent chain of volcanic islands is famous for its inhabitants. The giant tortoise, penguin, flamingo and iguana are but a few of the exotic species that enjoy full protection on the Galapagos. It was in the Galapagos, in 1835, that Charles Darwin caught the first glimmer of his earth-shaking theory of evolution. Back then, Mr. Darwin had no choice but to tour the Galapagos by boat. Today you do! REI Adventures and Red Mangrove Galapagos Lodges have teamed together to provide you a great alternative to explore multiple islands in the Galapagos archipelago. This lodge to lodge adventure allows you another way to see multiple islands without a cruise. Whether you choose to go for five, six or eight days, there's an abundance of activities and opportunities to discover the islands both on and off shore.

Important Notice
We recommend that all passengers allow one or two nights in mainland Ecuador prior to their program to allow for potential flight delays, misconnections or lost luggage.

REI Adventures shares non-exclusive departures at each Red Mangrove lodge and as such you may not be traveling with the same group throughout the tour. On any given day you may have a new group of fellow explorers and a different Park naturalist for each day's activities.

Please note: The sequence of lodge stays and activities may differ due to lodge availability.

5-day Darwin's Triangle Short Program – Three Island Itinerary:

Show more for all days

  • Day 1 Welcome to the crown jewel of the natural world. Check into your lodging for the night on Santa Cruz.

  • Day 2 Get a great introduction to the Galapagos giant tortoises while seeing them in their natural setting.

  • Day 3 Explore a site where some of the first human inhabitants of the Galapagos Islands settled.

  • Day 4 Explore a wildlife-rich inlet and visit the Charles Darwin Research Station.

  • Day 5 Depart for mainland Ecuador.

6-day Darwin's Triangle – Three Island Itinerary:

Show more for all days

  • Day 1 Welcome to the crown jewel of the natural world. Check into your lodging for the night on Santa Cruz.

  • Day 2 Get a great introduction to the Galapagos giant tortoises while seeing them in their natural setting.

  • Day 3 Explore a site where some of the first human inhabitants of the Galapagos Islands settled.

  • Day 4 Stretch your legs with a moderate hike up Sierra Negra. Afterwards, enjoy lunch in a beautiful setting at an organic farm.

  • Day 5 It's a visit to "Love Beach" and then on to the Charles Darwin Research Station.

  • Day 6 Depart the Galapagos Islands and fly back to mainland Ecuador.

8-day Galapagos Full Adventure – Three Island Itinerary:

Show more for all days

  • Day 1 Welcome to the crown jewel of the natural world. Check into your lodging for the night on Santa Cruz.

  • Day 2 Get a great introduction to the Galapagos giant tortoises while seeing them in their natural setting.

  • Day 3 Board a "chiva" for a ride to Cerro Allieri, one of the highest points in Floreana and known for its spectacular views.

  • Day 4 Explore a site where some of the first human inhabitants of the Galapagos Islands settled.

  • Day 5 Stretch your legs with a moderate hike up Sierra Negra. Afterwards, enjoy lunch in a beautiful setting at an organic farm.

  • Day 6 Today's snorkeling destination is one of the best for its calm, clear and shallow waters.

  • Day 7 It's a visit to "Love Beach" and then on to the Charles Darwin Research Station.

  • Day 8 Depart the Galapagos Islands and fly back to mainland Ecuador.

Note on Itinerary

Although we do our best to adhere to the schedule listed above, this itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control.

Share Basis for Single Travelers

All single travelers must pay the single supplement fee.

Price Includes

Accommodations in the Galapagos; all meals on a fixed menu basis; soft drinks during meals; excursions with a free-lance English speaking naturalist guide provided by the Galapagos National Park, free internet wireless service while on Isabela and Santa Cruz; all snorkeling gear and use of bikes in Puerto Ayora.

Not Included

Airfare from U.S. to Ecuador and the Galapagos Island; Galapagos Park fee; transit card; meals and transfers on the mainland; additional nights in Quito or Guayaquil; excess baggage charges; airport departure tax; gratuities and items of a personal nature such as alcoholic beverages, laundry fees and insurance of any kind.

Special Payment and Cancellation Policy

REI Adventures standard payment and cancellation policies do not apply. The deposit to hold your space is 50% of your total package price. Full payment is due at 60 days before departure.

Cancellation policy:
91 days or more prior to departure date - no penalty
61 – 90 days prior to departure - 50% of the deposit is nonrefundable
60 days or less prior to departure - 100% of the full trip cost is nonrefundable.

Weather

Although Ecuador lies on the equator, the country has a wide range of climates due to the varying altitudes. The city of Quito, located at 9,350', has an average temperature of 55 to 75 degrees. The cold Humboldt Current flowing from the Antarctic modifies the Galapagos Islands weather. Fall and winter months tend to be drier with cooler water temperatures. Summer months tend to have more chance of rain, but warmer water temperatures. Days year round are warm; shorts and a T-shirt are fine. Nights will often be cool. For extended snorkeling, a thin wet suit is recommended.

Qualifications

This trip is rated Easy Active [2]. This trip will be enjoyed by anyone who is in good health and leads an active life. Traveling from one island to the next will be on shaded speedboats and the sailing time will be no more than 2 hours. All landings will be "dry"- using docks wherever we go. Trip members will walk from the landing point to specific areas for wildlife observation. Most days include 4 or more hours of activity including swimming, snorkeling and walking.

General Information

This trip is subject to the booking information set forth in the current REI Adventures Reservation Information. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A full gear list and pre-departure information is sent upon sign-up. We highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance through REI Adventures. If coverage is purchased at the time of your initial reservation, the 'Pre-existing Conditions Exclusion' is waived (certain exclusions apply).

We look forward to having you join us for the trip of a lifetime! Why wait? Space is limited, reserve your adventure today.

Galapagos Islands Lodge to Lodge

Weather

Weather in the Galapagos and Quito, despite a 9000 foot elevation difference, are not so different. Both experience warm days and cool evenings. In the Galapagos year round daytime temperatures can be 90 degrees with cool 50s at night. The cold deep water of the Humbolt Current keeps these equatorial Islands and waters not as hot as one might expect. Quito is quite temperate with 75 degrees during the day and cool 40s at night possible, though 50s are more common at night.

Gear Checklist

Official Papers
  • Valid passport
  • Airline tickets
Luggage
  • Soft sided suitcase
  • Small daypack or fanny pack to carry camera, water bottle, light jacket, sun screen, etc.
  • Passport pouch or money belt
  • Luggage tags and luggage locks
Outerwear
  • Lightweight fleece or pile sweater
  • Lightweight rain/wind shell
Clothing
  • Lightweight, easily washable items for city and lodge wear -- casual and comfortable clothes are recommended
  • Walking or hiking shorts
  • T-shirts
  • Long- sleeve shirts (for cool evenings and sun protection)
  • Walking or hiking pants
  • Underwear
  • Socks
Clothing Accessories
  • Sun hat - this is essential!
  • Bandana
  • Swimsuit(s) and on-deck cover-up
  • Lightweight 2 or 3mm neoprene wetsuit (if you prefer your own – wetsuits available at lodges)
Footwear
  • Comfortable running or hiking shoes
  • Watersport sandals or booties
Travel Accessories
  • Mask and snorkel (fins, mask & snorkel are available at lodges)
  • Water bottle – this is essential!
  • Small, personal first-aid kit
  • Toilet kit
  • Sunglasses and retainer strap
  • Sunscreen and lip balm, high SPF rating and water-repellent
  • Flashlight or headlamp and spare batteries
Optional Field Gear
  • Guide books to the Galapagos Islands for identification of species
  • Camera, fmemory cards, spare batteries & charger
  • Disposable underwater camera
  • Binoculars - highly recommended
  • Small dry bag for camera gear while on ship-to-shore rides
  • Reading and writing materials
  • Watch with alarm or travel alarm
  • Insect repellent
  • Plastic bags to keep your gear dry inside your daypack, and to separate wet/dirty items from dry/clean items

Things to Consider

  • Always pack essential items such as your passport, money, eyewear, medications and one set of spare clothes in your carry-on baggage, in case your luggage is delayed.
  • A sweater and wind shell are often needed, as evenings are usually cool in temperature and from breezes.
  • Clothes can be casual and loose fitting. Long sleeve shirts are recommended for sun protection.
  • The sun is particularly strong on the equator, so a good sun hat and a long-sleeved, light-colored shirt are important. Bring plenty of water-resistant sunscreen.
  • Bring a spare duffel bag, as extra luggage can be stored at your hotel in Quito or Quayaquil.

 

Feel free to give us a call at (800) 622-2236 should you have any questions regarding the gear list. The staff at our stores and Direct Sales (800-426-4840) will also be happy to help you with gear questions. Or check out www.rei.com/learn. The Expert Advice section on our "Learn" page has great information to help you prepare for your trip.

REVIEW SNAPSHOT®

by PowerReviews
REI AdventuresGalapagos Islands Lodge to Lodge
 
4.5

(based on 13 reviews)

100%

of respondents would recommend this to a friend.

Pros

  • Guides (11)
  • Accommodations (10)
  • Once in a lifetime experience (10)
  • Well organized itinerary (9)
  • Activity level (6)

Cons

    Best Uses

        • Reviewer Profile:
        • Casual adventurer (9), Avid adventurer (4)
        • Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
        • Destination (12), All the details planned for me (8), Active adventures (7), Good value (7), I liked the itinerary (6)

      Reviewed by 13 customers

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      Displaying reviews 1-10

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      4.0

      What a beautiful trip!

      By Sue B2

      from Vermont

      About Me Avid Adventurer, Hiker, Wildlife Lover

      Pros

      • Beautiful Weather
      • Group Camaraderie
      • Guides
      • Lots Of Wildlife Viewing
      • Once in a Lifetime Experience

      Cons

      • Poorly Organized Itinerary

      Best Uses

        Comments about REI Adventures Galapagos Islands Lodge to Lodge:

        The itinerary confusion was the only drawback to this trip. They also had us in the water in late morning after checking out, only to go back to the resort and shower in the rooms we had checked out of that were already attended to by the housekeeping staff. It was a little odd, but not inconvenient. The fruit juices at meals were so fresh and wonderful. Definitely try them!! The group and the guides were so much fun that I plan to keep in touch with everyone I met, which is highly unusual for me. By the way, the water in the faucets on the islands is brackish and cannot be drank by the locals either, so the resorts use purified water to wash the fruits and vegetables. We were able to eat everything.

        • Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
        • Active Adventures, All the Details Planned for Me, Commitment to Sustainability, Destination, Good Value, I Liked the Itinerary, Travel with Like-minded Outdoor Enthusiasts
        • Why did you choose this trip?:
        • I chose this trip for the wildlife viewing that was available in the Galapagos Islands.
        • What was the highlight of your trip?:
        • Snorkeling with sea lions. It wasn't even planned that we would snorkel with sea lions, we were just snorkeling and the sea lions joined us. They are so much fun! I also enjoyed seeing all the different birds, such as magnificent frigatebirds, blue-footed booby birds, pelicans, herons, and one vermilion flycatcher, as well as the sea lions, iguanas, turtles, giant tortoises, crabs, etc.
        • What would be your advice to potential travelers?:
        • Disregard the itinerary that is handed to you upon your arrival at the resort and ask lots of questions about where, when, and how the activities will happen. My itinerary said that we should change into bathing suits at lunchtime one day to snorkel in the afternoon and then they took us snorkeling right before lunch. Thank God for synthetic fabrics, so I was able to snorkel in my clothes!
         
        5.0

        Last minute trip & REI made it flawless!

        By Tracie

        from Nashville, TN

        About Me Casual Adventurer

        Site Member

        Pros

        • Accommodations
        • Activity Level
        • Exceeded Expectations
        • Food
        • Group Camaraderie
        • Guides
        • Once in a Lifetime Experience
        • Quality Equipment Provided
        • Well Organized Itinerary

        Cons

          Best Uses

            Comments about REI Adventures Galapagos Islands Lodge to Lodge:

            This was a fantastic trip and I had a wonderful time! Hated to leave.

            • Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
            • Active Adventures, Commitment to Sustainability, Destination, Good Value, I Liked the Itinerary, Travel with Like-minded Outdoor Enthusiasts

            (2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)

             
            5.0

            Trip of a lifetime exceeds expectations

            By Rebeca S

            from Minneapolis, MN

            About Me Avid Adventurer

            Site Member

            Pros

            • Accommodations
            • Activity Level
            • Exceeded Expectations
            • Group Camaraderie
            • Guides
            • Once in a Lifetime Experience
            • Pace
            • Quality Equipment Provided
            • Well Organized Itinerary

            Cons

            • Food

            Best Uses

              Comments about REI Adventures Galapagos Islands Lodge to Lodge:

              The small sea side cabins on Floreana were wonderful. Going to sleep to the sounds of the breaking waves was a highlight. The best snorkeling was also found here. Our guide was tremendous and our small group size made it possible for everyone's questions to be answered during our day trips.

              • Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
              • Active Adventures, Destination, Good Value, Travel with Like-minded Outdoor Enthusiasts
              • Why did you choose this trip?:
              • I have always wanted to go to the Galapagos. REI had a great value with like-minded active people and great guides.
              • What was the highlight of your trip?:
              • Seeing a Galapagos penguin. If I had seen nothing else that would have made my trip. I also had a tremendous time snorkeling with sharks, sting rays, and sea turtles.
              • What would be your advice to potential travelers?:
              • Make sure to take time to put down the camera and just absorb being amid such unique beauty. Just Be. I would also recommend having your REI representative take care of booking the flights between mainland Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. It can be a tricky hassle and they know the ropes so just make it one less thing you have to worry about.

              (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

               
              4.0

              wow!!

              By angski

              from santa clarita, california

              About Me Avid Adventurer

              Pros

              • Accommodations
              • Activity Level
              • Food
              • Guides
              • Once in a Lifetime Experience

              Cons

                Best Uses

                  Comments about REI Adventures Galapagos Islands Lodge to Lodge:

                  the lodging was awesome. The food was amazing as was the staff. The boats to and from the islands could have been a little better. There was too much rushing from one activity to the other. That is why there should be options as to whether one wants to partake in that activity or do something else.

                  • Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
                  • Active Adventures, All the Details Planned for Me, Destination, Good Value
                  • Why did you choose this trip?:
                  • because i have a zoology degree and loved it when I learned about the galapagos islands and charles darwin.
                  • What was the highlight of your trip?:
                  • the guides were amazing. they had great attitudes and the people in general were so helpful and kind.
                  • What would be your advice to potential travelers?:
                  • I would suggest the the traveler be givin options on whether they want to hike the volcano in Isabella (for example) or go snorkeling. Would have liked to have snorkeled more.

                  (9 of 10 customers found this review helpful)

                   
                  4.0

                  Darwin got it right

                  By monghoul

                  from Denver, Colorado

                  About Me Casual Adventurer

                  See all my reviews

                  Pros

                  • Affordable
                  • Guides
                  • Manageable tip amount
                  • Well Organized Itinerary

                  Cons

                  • Missed transfer in Quito
                  • Poor scheduling

                  Best Uses

                    Comments about REI Adventures Galapagos Islands Lodge to Lodge:

                    This not an axclusive REI trip, we were were late leaving for Floreana waiting for another couple to arrive and as such only had a short snorkle session in Floreana. Nice group of people though. Red Mangrove did a great job of organizing the trip and their accomodations are first rate. They provided transfers from the airport to the hotel (twice)and from the hotel to the airport. They scheduled a transfer from the hotel to the airport for the flight home but failed to show up. Taxi fare is $6. The guide, Fabian, was very knowledgeable and accomodating. Buy his book if you are fortunate to meet him.

                    • Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
                    • All the Details Planned for Me, Good Value, I Liked the Itinerary, REI expertise
                    • Why did you choose this trip?:
                    • I've always wanted to visit the Galapagos and this was in conjunction with an Amazon Jungle trip. One airfare-two trips. Also spending nights on land allowed longer day explorations and night life was more varied than on a small rocking boat.
                    • What was the highlight of your trip?:
                    • Floreana, food, lodging and the turtle hike. Really, everyday was new and exiting. The volcano hike, the blue footed birds, the sharks, the tortoises, and the turtles. The snorkling I was able to fit in - during the standdown on San Isabelle
                    • What would be your advice to potential travelers?:
                    • Skip the ocean view upcharge, four of my five nights had an ocean view. There are several ATMs on Santa Cruz. Food in the hotels is very good but the meals in the local retaurants were more fun. The boat rides are 2-3 hours long, noisy and very bumpy, an ipod was nice to have. We were there during the dry cool season. The weather was generally overcast and warm to hot. Some short rains. A wet suit woild have been nice, the water was cool.

                    (7 of 7 customers found this review helpful)

                     
                    4.0

                    Great trip

                    By bkurkjian

                    from Fremont, CA

                    About Me Casual Adventurer

                    Pros

                    • Accommodations
                    • Exceeded Expectations
                    • Once in a Lifetime Experience
                    • Well Organized Itinerary

                    Cons

                    • Food
                    • Group Camaraderie

                    Best Uses

                      Comments about REI Adventures Galapagos Islands Lodge to Lodge:

                      We booked the 8-day Galapagos trip through REI and Red Mangrove was their contracted provider. We had a great experience with them and would highly recommend them! The 3 properties we stayed at -Adventura Lodge on Santa Cruz as well as their properties on Floreanna and Isabella were all unique and comfortable. The accommodations are somewhat on the basic side; especially Floreanna but had enough charm and service to more than make up for that. Red Mangrove assigned us an "adventure guide" (in addition to the Galapagos naturalist guide) who stayed with us for the whole trip. He handled every detail. We just had to show up with the appropriate gear and everything else was taken care of. This service really enhanced our vacation. With an 8 day trip, our traveling companions changed- most people were 3 or 5 day packages. This would have been a problem if I hadn't been with my family. There were some kids, but not many. Our main complaint was that the food was nothing special. Also, there seemed to be some lack of communication between Red Mangrove and REI. Red Mangrove offered several services that REI did not inform us of. For example, airport transfers in Quito were included, even without their Quito package, however we weren't informed of this. There were several other small examples of this problem.

                      • Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
                      • All the Details Planned for Me, Destination, Good Value, I Liked the Itinerary
                      • Why did you choose this trip?:
                      • We wanted a land based trip to the Galapagos islands. REI is a company we like and we felt comfortable booking with them

                      (6 of 6 customers found this review helpful)

                       
                      5.0

                      Great Trip!

                      By JBreen

                      from Eugene, OR

                      About Me Casual Adventurer, First-Time Adventurer

                      Pros

                      • Activity Level
                      • Food
                      • Group Camaraderie
                      • Guides
                      • Once in a Lifetime Experience
                      • Quality Equipment Provided
                      • Well Organized Itinerary

                      Cons

                        Best Uses

                          Comments about REI Adventures Galapagos Islands Lodge to Lodge:

                          The trip was great to see all of the plants,animals, and sites on the Galapagos. We were up everyday at 6am and did not get downtime so if you want rest, this is not the trip. However if you do not want to miss anything than it was fantastic. We came home really tired and had had enough boating since we were there in the rough seas time of year. I'm still glad we did it all and saw it all.

                          • Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
                          • Active Adventures, All the Details Planned for Me, Commitment to Sustainability, Destination, I Liked the Itinerary, Travel with Like-minded Outdoor Enthusiasts
                          • Why did you choose this trip?:
                          • Wanted to see a lot things I had never seen before.
                          • What was the highlight of your trip?:
                          • Snorkling with the sea turtles!!!
                          • What would be your advice to potential travelers?:
                          • Do not pay to upgrade your room because most of the trip you have the same room as everyone else for more money. It was not necessary. It was not necessary to bring water purification along since all the hotels provided water for us. Also they fed us three to four times a day with food that was safe for us so bringing protein bars was not necessary either. Needed only clothes that could be washed in the sink since we were moving around so much we did not have time to let anything else dry. Remember a good sunhat and lots of lotion.

                          (7 of 7 customers found this review helpful)

                           
                          5.0

                          Best way to see the Galapagos

                          By Wlb

                          from Simsbury, CT

                          About Me Casual Adventurer

                          Pros

                          • Accommodations
                          • Activity Level
                          • Exceeded Expectations
                          • Food
                          • Guides
                          • Once in a Lifetime Experience
                          • Well Organized Itinerary

                          Cons

                          • Group size

                          Best Uses

                            Comments about REI Adventures Galapagos Islands Lodge to Lodge:

                            The trip was exactly as REI had described it. There was a taste of every activity available, from hiking to snorkeling. The accommodations were splendid and the food fabulous. All of the details of traveling in a large group went smoothly (if you don't notice the detail people they're doing a great job!). There was a good balance of activities and down time. One drawback was the group size was too big.

                            • Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
                            • All the Details Planned for Me, Commitment to Sustainability, Destination
                            • Why did you choose this trip?:
                            • I wanted a trip that was not the "everyone-takes-the-boat" trip. This was a chance to stay on the islands and be a part of the island life, if only for a week.
                            • What was the highlight of your trip?:
                            • The entire trip was a highlight of my life, but if I had to choose a favorite activity, it was hiking up the Sierra Negra Volcano.
                            • What would be your advice to potential travelers?:
                            • Know that you may be grouped with whoever has signed up that week, whether through REI or another tour agency.

                            (3 of 3 customers found this review helpful)

                             
                            5.0

                            Tremendous Experiencer

                            By Travelon

                            from Montana

                            About Me Casual Adventurer

                            Pros

                            • Accommodations
                            • Group Camaraderie
                            • Guides
                            • Once in a Lifetime Experience
                            • Well Organized Itinerary

                            Cons

                            • Quality Equipment Provided

                            Best Uses

                              Comments about REI Adventures Galapagos Islands Lodge to Lodge:

                              Didn't expect Olivia, hotel representative, to accompany us the entire trip, although she fell ill near the end and had to leave us to see a doctor. She was superior and flawlessly managed minor issues. Accommodations were quite good (clean, comfortable) and the food ranged from OK (see also college dorm food) to excellent. Particularly enjoyed fresh fruits/juices, vegetables and prawns. All foods properly washed and safe to eat. Purified water available at all hotels and included in the overall package. A computer with Internet connection (no charge) was available at two hotels. Boats taking us between islands were about 40-45' in length and up to the task. Purge valves on several of the snorkels leaked. Argh. Roman, naturalist, was a wealth of information and a fun companion. Didn't expect to be shuttled by Gustavo, a Red Mangrove representative, between the Sheraton and the Quito airport. Gustavo was of great value checking in at Quito airport...a bit confusing and no instructions would likely prepare to manage. Gustavo pledged to pick us up at the Sheraton one hour before departure to the islands. He was late. Traffic can be brutal in Quito and we missed our flight. Another flight followed shortly and we made it. Flight schedules to/from the islands seem rather fluid...relax and have a beer.

                              We were able to leave a bag at the Sheraton Hotel in Quito before going to the islands.

                              Overall, fantastic experience. Highly Recommended.

                              • Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
                              • Destination, I Liked the Itinerary, Travel with Like-minded Outdoor Enthusiasts
                              • Why did you choose this trip?:
                              • It's a great itinerary and we preferred to stay ashore each day rather than on a modest-sized ship.
                              • What was the highlight of your trip?:
                              • Animals are everywhere and most pretty tame. Varied geography, flora and fauna amazing.
                              • What would be your advice to potential travelers?:
                              • Strongly consider an add-on to Otavalo. We did several days there on our own (very easy to arrange), or through REI.

                              (13 of 13 customers found this review helpful)

                               
                              5.0

                              Amazing adventure trip

                              By JDrums

                              from Saint Louis, MO

                              About Me Casual Adventurer

                              Pros

                              • Accommodations
                              • Exceeded Expectations
                              • Food
                              • Guides
                              • Once in a Lifetime Experience

                              Cons

                                Best Uses

                                  Comments about REI Adventures Galapagos Islands Lodge to Lodge:

                                  We did the five-day trip. The guides were excellent - they spoke English well, knew where to go to see the best wildlife, and took care of all the travel details (suitcases, taxis, boats, etc). We saw a huge variety of animals and plants and learned throughout the trip. We wished we'd had a few more days to just relax (on Isabella Island - it was paradise), but we really got our money's worth. We loved all the hotels. We enjoyed the company of other travelers, but with several group meals this wouldn't be an ideal trip for a honeymooning couple or others who want to be alone. We thought this was a great alternative to a cruise, as we got some of the local feel of the islands.

                                  • Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
                                  • Active Adventures, All the Details Planned for Me, Destination
                                  • Why did you choose this trip?:
                                  • We wanted to take an adventurous vacation that was not too far of a flight from home. This Galapagos trip sounded exciting and unforgettable. We thought having a well-organized itinerary and guides would be necessary in such an exotic location.
                                  • What was the highlight of your trip?:
                                  • Snorkeling with sea lions and reef sharks!
                                  • What would be your advice to potential travelers?:
                                  • We were busy all day, but nothing was too physically challenging. We were surprised at the weather - not too hot in July and quite cool at night. Smart travelers should check the weather and pack layers. Also - it took us a day to figure this out - you have to let the shower water warm up for ~10 minutes, otherwise you will be taking a cold shower.

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                                  Galapagos Islands Lodge to Lodge

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                                  2013 Departures
                                  5-day Itinerary
                                  AccommodationSingle*Double*Triple*
                                  Suite (Ocean View)$3,227$2,323$2,021
                                  Superior (Partial Ocean View)$2,638$2,027$1,824
                                  Standard Room (Mangrove View)$2,164$1,791$1,667
                                   
                                  6-day Itinerary
                                  AccommodationSingle*Double*Triple*
                                  Suite (Ocean View)$4,034$2,902$2,820
                                  Superior (Partial Ocean View)$3,296$2,533$2,279
                                  Standard Room (Mangrove View)$2,706$2,239$2,082
                                   
                                  8-day Itinerary
                                  AccommodationSingle*Double*Triple*
                                  Suite (Ocean View)$5,095$3,975$3,894
                                  Superior (Partial Ocean View)$4,365$3,610$3,359
                                  Standard Room (Mangrove View)$3,780$3,318$3,163


                                  *All prices per person. December departures are subject to a 10% holiday surcharge. Child discount: 25% discount for children under 10 years of age.

                                  2014 Departures
                                  5-day Itinerary
                                  AccommodationSingle*Double*Triple*
                                  Suite (Ocean View)$3,550$2,556$2,223
                                  Superior (Partial Ocean View)$2,902$2,230$2,006
                                  Standard Room (Mangrove View)$2,380$1,970$1,883
                                   
                                  6-day Itinerary
                                  AccommodationSingle*Double*Triple*
                                  Suite (Ocean View)$4,437$3,192$3,102
                                  Superior (Partial Ocean View)$3,625$2,787$2,507
                                  Standard Room (Mangrove View)$2,977$2,462$2,291
                                   
                                  8-day Itinerary
                                  AccommodationSingle*Double*Triple*
                                  Suite (Ocean View)$5,605$4,373$4,283
                                  Superior (Partial Ocean View)$4,801$3,971$3,695
                                  Standard Room (Mangrove View)$4,158$3,649$3,479


                                  *All prices per person. December departures are subject to a 10% holiday surcharge. Child discount: 25% discount for children under 10 years of age.

                                  Suite (Ocean view) – Suite room will mean an ocean view room at all lodges. Please keep in mind that the Floreana Lodge consists of 10 similar wooden cabins. All are oceanfront and have ocean views but room size and bed configuration are the same.

                                  Superior (Partial Ocean view) – Superior room will mean a partial ocean view at the Aventura Lodge, no partial ocean view at the Isabela Lodge but the lodge is located on the beach and has a rooftop terrace. The Floreana Lodge consists of 10 similar wooden cabins. All are oceanfront and have ocean views but room size and bed configuration are the same.

                                  Standard (Mangrove view) – Standard room type will mean a mangrove view at the Aventura Lodge, no view at the Isabela Lodge, but an ocean view at Floreana Lodge.

                                  Ecuadorian Amazon Eco Lodges Extension

                                  Activity: Wildlife viewing

                                  Explore more of Ecuador's diverse landscape and wildlife by extending your adventure with a visit to the Amazon. Journey down the Napo River and discover the world of a tropical rainforest where toucans, parrots, caimans, and a hundred species of butterflies and insects exist within an incredible biodiversity of plants.

                                  Our jungle experiences include accommodations at comfortable eco-lodges. Each lodge offers a unique and unforgettable glimpse into this amazing tropical ecosystem.

                                  Highlights include:

                                  • Visiting a parrot clay lick where you will enjoy an amazing display as parrots and parakeets come down to a clay bank to eat this soil rich in minerals.
                                  • Learning first hand of the Kichwa community with a visit to a local village or family home.
                                  • Climbing to a canopy observation platform located 130 feet atop a kapok tree with an enchanting view of the rainforest canopy and the flora and fauna that live in the tree tops.
                                  • A jungle night walk in search of insects, amphibians, reptiles and mammals hiding in the darkness of the forest.

                                  Days: 4 or 5

                                  Price: from $829 per person

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                                  Sacha Lodge

                                  The lodging at Sacha was carefully designed to offer comfort to the traveler yet preserve the environment and rainforest ambience. All the cabins, with high thatched roofs and private shaded terraces, are constructed with traditional materials and hidden among the lush surroundings. Each of the 26 rooms provide a private bathroom with flushing toilet and hot shower. All cabins are screened against insects, and contain ceiling fans above two comfortable double beds. During free time, visitors may overlook the jungle from hammocks and often report seeing wild fauna such as toucans, agoutis and monkeys right from their own cabin! Added features at Sacha are a 900' long canopy walk suspended 120' above the forest floor and a butterfly house where guests can wander through 'the flying room".

                                  2013 Rates

                                  AccommodationDoubleSingle
                                  4 days / 3 nights - depart Friday / return Monday$829$1,239
                                  5 days / 4 nights - depart Monday / return Friday$1,039$1,559

                                  Airfare - per person roundtrip from Quito $190.

                                  Yasuni National Park fee - $25 per person (to be paid locally).

                                  Arriving or departing on any day (except Sunday) is possible for $80 more per direction.

                                  Napo Wildlife Center

                                  Lodging at NWC has been designed to offer maximum privacy and comfort to the world traveler, providing lake and forest views from their private porches, as well as preserving one of the most pristine spots of Amazon forest in Ecuador. Each of our 16 individual large luxury cabanas are prepared for receiving guests in double occupancy or arranged in advance for a 3 family member visit. Rooms include a king size or twin size beds, private bathrooms with on demand hot water, a multi-speed ceiling fan, electricity provided by silent generators supplemented by solar panel power system, plenty of lights and 120 v outlets, screened windows and mosquito nets. An added feature at Napo is its amazing location on the Anangucocha Lake and the chance for views of giant otters, black caiman and capybaras right from the dock or opportunities to jump in for a refreshing swim. Guest can also spend free time in the observation tower located next to the dining hall offering good opportunity for birding or discovering more wildlife right next to the lodge.

                                  2013 Rates

                                  AccommodationDoubleSingle
                                  4 days / 3 nights$985$1,380
                                  5 days / 4 nights$1,175$1,710

                                  Airfare - per person roundtrip from Quito $190

                                  Flights do not operate on Sunday.

                                  Prices Include

                                  Accommodations in double room with private bath; all meals from lunch on Day 1 to breakfast on last day; bilingual jungle guide; native guide; jungle tours; transfers; taxes and use of rubber boots.

                                  Not Included

                                  International airfare to Ecuador; alcoholic beverages or soft drinks; guide gratuities; excess baggage charges or insurance of any kind. The price for roundtrip flights from Quito to Coca is not included in the lodge package. The flight cost will be collected by REI Adventures and arrangements are made and pre-paid in conjunction with your lodge booking.

                                  Single Travelers

                                  Rates for single travelers vary based on lodge and length of stay.

                                  Payment and Cancellation Policy

                                  REI Adventures standard cancellation policy does not apply to the Amazon Lodges. A special cancellation policy applies which is stricter than the REI policy. A deposit of $400 per person is required for confirmation. $200 of the deposit is nonrefundable from confirmation. Within 90 days, REI Adventures' standard policy applies.

                                  Qualifications

                                  This trip is rated Easy Active [2] and contains a variety of activities ranging from easy day walks to moderate hikes in a warm, tropical climate and swimming. Participants should be in good physical condition and consider beginning a regular exercise regimen 1-2 months prior to departure consisting of walking/hiking, running and/or swimming to prepare for this adventure. The better shape you're in, the more you'll be able to take advantage of the lodges' nature trails and optional activities.

                                  Days: 4 or 5

                                  Price: from $829 per person

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