Galapagos Adventure (Copy)

Both routes are designed to showcase the remarkable flora and fauna of the Galápagos, and each visits different islands. Compare the routes

The Galápagos is a year-round destination, with some seasonal variation in temperature. See the seasons

Each day includes guided walks and snorkeling, and you’ll travel between Integrity and shore by panga. Terrain ranges from easy beachcombing to walks over rough, uneven ground. Is this trip right for me?

A highlight for most guests. Your naturalist leads at least one snorkel outing a day from the panga, and you may swim alongside sea lions, sea turtles, penguins, tropical fish, and harmless sharks. Pangas have ladders for easy entry and exit, and flotation belts are available aboard.

The water is cooled by ocean currents and ranges from about 60° to 75°F, and currents can be strong. You should be comfortable swimming and floating face-down with a snorkel before you go, as there’s no time for lessons once the trip begins. Full-face snorkel masks are not allowed.

Wetsuits, masks, fins, and snorkels are provided, with wetsuits in standard sizes from XS to XXL. If you need a custom size or prefer your own mask, you’re welcome to bring it.

Scuba diving isn’t possible from Integrity, as Galápagos National Park rules allow diving only from licensed dive boats. You’re welcome to arrange day dives from Puerto Ayora independently before or after your cruise; INCA doesn’t arrange scuba diving due to liability limitations.

For adventurous families, yes. The minimum age is 6 for individual bookings, and private charters have no minimum age. Children ages 6–17 receive a $1,500 discount; see Upgrades & Supplements under Dates & Prices.

While our minimum age is 6, the Galápagos Islands are an expedition destination. Guests explore the islands continuously, with morning and afternoon shore visits of up to three hours at a time. Terrain can be challenging for smaller children, the equatorial sun is very strong, and at certain times of year it may rain. There are no toilet facilities at visitor sites on uninhabited islands. Galápagos National Park rules require guests to be accompanied by a naturalist guide at all times, so guests can’t walk back to the pickup point or stay along the shore on their own. There are no daycare facilities aboard Integrity, and parents are responsible for their children at all times, both aboard and on shore. All children under 8 at the time of travel require a waiver signed by a parent or legal guardian acknowledging and accepting these limitations.

By air from Guayaquil or Quito. INCA books your Galápagos flights so the whole group arrives and departs together; Galápagos airfare is in addition to the trip price, currently $595 per person. The group transfer is timed to specific flights, so guests on other flights risk missing the transfer or facing long waits at the terminal.

Before you fly, every traveler 18 and over must complete a short online biosafety declaration within 48 hours of the flight to the islands. You’ll receive a QR code by email to show on arrival at Baltra airport; the link is also included in your final itinerary.

The Galápagos National Park entrance fee (currently $200 per adult, $100 per child under 12) and the Transit Control Tax (currently $20) are in addition to the trip price. INCA can arrange pre-payment of both so you skip the lines; otherwise, the transit tax is paid at the mainland airport and the park fee in cash on arrival at Baltra. Keep your transit tax card, as you’ll need it to leave the islands.

Almost always. Integrity can cater to nearly all dietary preferences, allergies, and restrictions, and you’ll have the chance to share yours when you book. Hard-to-source or highly specialized provisions may require a supplement.

Non-alcoholic drinks (soft drinks, coffee, tea, and juice) plus house wine and beer are included and unlimited. Other wines and spirits are available for $10–$15 per glass, and your bar tab can be paid in cash or by credit card aboard. A sample bar menu is available on request.

You’re welcome to bring your own bottles in your checked luggage; Ecuador currently allows up to three liters of alcohol per person. Special labels can also be pre-ordered at Ecuadorian rates.

Tipping is always at your discretion. We recommend $120–$180 per guest for your naturalist guide and $225–$350 per guest for the yacht crew. Tips for porters and drivers are already included.

Due to Ecuador’s tax and labor regulations, gratuities are paid in cash at the end of the cruise.