A Total Galapagos Family Adventure
A wonderful and comprehensive family tour of the Galapagos Islands
Personalised journeys from start to finish
Every trip helps support Conservation
Every detail taken care of
Itinerary highlights
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A four-night Galapagos cruise where you can explore the islands and their majestic wildlife
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Snorkel and swim with playful sea lions
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Two nights in a Galapagos lodge for a contrasting experience
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Discover Quito's charms on a privately guided tour
What's included
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Meet and greet airport service
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Luxury accommodation throughout
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Full support from your travel designer and concierge before, during and after your trip
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All internal flights
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Two nights in Quito prior to your Galapagos departure
At a glance
It’s hard to find a more wonderful destination for a multi-generational family trip than the Galapagos Islands. Its wildlife, endemic and iconic of the islands, has no fear of predators, meaning you can get right up close to them, and there are adventurous activities that everyone in the family can enjoy.
This luxury family vacation to the Galapagos has been designed so that you and your family get to experience every angle of this incredible archipelago and spend quality time together. After a short time in Ecuador’s charming capital, Quito, begin your exploration of the Galapagos with a four night luxury cruise hopping between the islands on daily water-based expeditions and guided tours with your naturalist guides. Snorkel off of pristine sand beaches, walk among fields of lava and interact with inquisitive sea lions, sun bathing iguanas and marvel at countless bird species.
Then there are two further nights on dry land, discovering the island of Santa Cruz at your own pace whilst staying in a luxury lodge. This is the place to get up close to giant tortoises in the wild, mountain bike and relax with your family before returning to the mainland.
Example trip itinerary
Quito
Transfer
Meet and greet at Quito airport
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel in Quito
Accommodation in Quito
- 31 rooms
- Restaurant
- TV
- WiFi
- Room upgrade will be provided subject to availability
- Box of Pacari chocolates upon arrival
Removed you may think, but the hotel sits quite comfortably in this characteristically Old World part of town, and being conveniently positioned at the colonial and cultural heart of Quito its thirty-one rooms have magnificent views over the square and surrounding monuments.
Inside the décor is elegantly traditional, but is kept quite minimal for a contemporary twist. Downstairs is the lobby, complete with marble floors, velvet Chesterfields, and peppered with the odd antique, as is the dining room, bar and conservatory central patio. Then via the spiral stairs (or lift) are the rooms that feature all the contemporary amenities matched to the more modern soft furnishings, but the high ceilings, mouldings, wall murals and marbled bathrooms nod loyally to the mansion’s past and the opulence of a bygone era.
We can arrange for a number of private city tours of Quito with our expert, local guides. Please discuss this with our consultants when planning your itinerary
- 241 rooms, 16 suites
- 3 restaurants
- Sushi Bar
- Deli Cafe
- Spa
- Fitness Centre
- WiFi
One of Quito’s largest hotels, the JW Marriott Quito is perfect for those who want all the extensive infrastructure, amenities and service that only a five star business class hotel can provide.
Rooms are well decorated and equipped, most with views of the city or volcano. Hotel facilities include a very large heated outdoor pool area (almost unique in Quito), four restaurants, bars, lounges and a well equipped spa.
- 22 Rooms, consisting of single, double and suites.
- Charming, central patio area, which is perfect for relaxing with a cup of coffee or a beer.
- Lounge area, with a fireplace.
- Hotel restaurant; serving local dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
- Welcome card with box of Ecuadorian sweets upon arrival
Step back into Ecuador’s fascinating history, with a stay at this charming historical hotel in the centre of Quito, which has quite rightly been awarded UNESCO status. Situated amongst the narrow, cobbled streets and baroque architecture this hotel is located in a restored colonial mansion, with 22 beautifully decorated colourful rooms, replete with décor from the colonial era. For some peace and quiet from the bustling bohemian streets, you can sit back and relax in the hotels central patio, carefully designed to represent the importance of Quito’s historical past and the present, modern day.
Outside of the hotel you will find some of Quito’s most beautiful historical monasteries, churches and a splendid collection of art shops, cafes and restaurants. At the weekend this area is a very lively with a fantastic atmosphere, a great place to be to be immersed into Quito’s culture.
Three days exploring Quito
Enjoy Ecuador's capital, the first ever UNESCO World Heritage city. You'll have our list of recommendations as well as private guides on hand to enjoy the best of this historical city and contemporary hub. We can arrange a number of private, interest-led tours to booking fine restaurants for you. Talk to your travel designer about how you would like to spend your time here.
Live Quito Like a Local half-day tour
Head out for a walking tour of the Old Town, intent on understanding more about the people who live in the largest and best-restored historical centre in the Americas. Begin by meeting our local resident guide, part of a grassroots NGO organization that has created a walking tour of its Quito neighbourhood, called San Roque. The guide takes us through the nearby streets, stopping to meet artisans, shopkeepers, hat makers and sweet confectioners. Up the hill on Calle Rocafuerte, we explore the San Francisco Market, one of the oldest in the capital. Here, we learn all about the fruit and vegetables produced in Ecuador and some culinary traditions.
We also have the chance to meet and learn from one of the local herbal healers who have locales in the market. Continue on to the Monastery of San Francisco, one the of great religious buildings of the New World; its impressive façade and atrium that lead to its Baroque interior influenced by Moorish style, with the winged Virgin of Quito at its main altar. We will visit the temple of La Compañía de Jesús and its awesome gilded interior. We will stroll at the Independence Plaza, flanked by the Cathedral, the Presidential Palace, the Municipal Building and the Archbishop’s Palace.
Transfer
Private transfer to Quito airport
Flight
Flight to the Galapagos Islands (via Guayaquil)
Galapagos Islands
Yachts in the Galapagos
- 8 spacious cabins with their own private balconies
- Lounge
- Dining room
- Several outdoor decks from which to dine and observe the sights
- Jacuzzi
- Sundeck
Ocean Spray is a well-equipped and very reasonably priced vessel.
With a capacity for only 16 guests with eight very spacious cabins (the top four are 32m² in size) all with their own private balconies, this is a cruiser that prizes an intimate and comfortable Galápagos experience for its guests.
Enjoy al fresco dining on the deck to soaking in the Jacuzzi after your day’s excursions.
A comprehensive schedule of land-based and boat excursions to the islands will be discussed with you before the trip and when you first board the Ocean Spray. Talk to our designers for more details.
- Nine cabins
- Sundeck Jacuzzi
- Dining room
- Bar
- Lounge
Natural Paradise is a newly launched luxury yacht designed specifically for cruising the Galapagos in comfort with custom features such as soundproofed engines.
There are nine cabins which can sleep up to 16 guests, all with comfortable beds, air-conditioning and private bathrooms. Four of these feature private balconies and the main deck suite can be converted into a triple room.
Her social areas include a beautiful teak sundeck with Jacuzzi and a cozy al fresco dining. On the main deck you will find a spacious lounge, bar and dining room.
To help you explore the archipelago’s underwater world, snorkeling gear, wetsuit and underwater camera are available for your use. 10 crew members, including a naturalist guide who will lead you on your exploration, ensure a high standard of service throughout your cruise.
- 50 cabins and suites
- Two restaurants
- Bar and lounge
- Fitness room
- Library
- On board doctor
Combining decades of experience with a state-of-the-art expedition vessel designed specifically for Galapagos exploration, the newly launched Santa Cruz II brings a new level of luxury and eco-credentials to the archipelago.
The new boat is just over 70m long and features 50 Swedish-designed cabins and suites, with room for up to 90 guests. All enjoy sea views out of large windows and en-suite bathrooms. 36 cabins can be interconnected, ideal for families and small groups.
Communal areas include the Sky Deck, overlooking the bow, where guests can enjoy the sunshine or exercise in the fitness room. The aptly named Panorama Deck has an elegant bar, lounge and an al fresco dining area to the stern. On the same deck, guests are also welcome to visit the bridge, featuring state-of-the-art electronic navigation equipment, to meet the crew and captain. Below this is the library, hot tubs, the Discovery Room and the Beagle Dining Room.
Much of the food served on board is locally sourced, such as fish, sea food and organically grown produce, and is a combination of Ecuadorian specialities and international cuisine. You can choose to dine al fresco which lets you enjoy the stunning scenery as you eat.
Aboard the Santa Cruz II, explore the Galapagos Islands in a range of ways, from snorkelling in its waters with reef sharks and frolicking sea lions, to glass-bottomed boat tours, kayak expeditions and expertly guided hikes on land that focus on birdlife, wildlife and geology. Cruise itineraries vary in length from four to ten nights, and encompass the entire archipelago.
Four night Galapagos cruise
Spend your time cruising and exploring the Galapagos Islands on your choice of Jacada's selected luxury expedition cruises. The exact itinerary will depend on which you choose - our travel designer will help you pick the best for you and your family.
Nature walks on the Islands
There will be a number of varied nature trails with your guides to the different islands on your itinerary to explore both the wildlife up close and the astonishing geology of the islands.
Panga rides and snorkelling
Small group excursions by inflatable 'panga' Zodiac boats to snorkel and see the dense marine wildlife.
Santa Cruz Island
Transfer
Private transfer from Santa Cruz port to your hotel on Santa Cruz
Accommodation in Santa Cruz Island
- Included activities such as snorkelling, hiking, biking and boat trips
- Open-plan lounge, bar and dining room
- Infinity pool
- 9 luxury en-suite tents with private deck
- Private three bedroom family suite
A truly unique way to enjoy the wonderful nature of the Galápagos islands. Set in 55-hectare grounds in a remote corner of Santa Cruz island, the GSC camp has just nine large and very well appointed safari style tents.
Each is appointed with private bathroom with a hot water shower. The tents are spaced well and have a large double bed and private balcony from which to enjoy the views. The new family suite has three bedrooms suite (master and two twins), and its location next to the main lodge makes it an ideal option for families who favour more private and cohesive lodging.
All the tents surround the main and very elegant contemporary lodge complete with restored antiques and furnishings installed by its well-travelled owners. There is a large main communal area where meals are served and a lounge to relax in. The hotel also boasts an infinity pool from which to admire the landscape. A variety of activities to explore the island and surrounds are possible from the camp. The camp is also renowned for its sustainable and positive impact efforts, including projects aimed at reforestation and protection of endemic flora.
- 21 rooms and 6 suites
- Private yacht
- Restaurant and bar
- Swimming pool
- Sailing trips around the islands
- Scuba diving and birdwatching
Set on the island of Santa Cruz, Finch Bay Eco Resort is one of the best and most convenient beachfront hotels in the Galápagos. With a calm protected beach in front and a pleasant pool area, it makes for a wonderful place to relax before or after your Galápagos cruise.
The hotel has a good restaurant and offers tours around the island or boat trips to other surrounding islands can also be organised. The hotel is decorated in a relaxed contemporary style, with the best rooms offering a private veranda and views out to the sea.
- Six guestrooms and two suites
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Lounge
- Spa
- Swimming Pool
- Whirlpool
- Private tortoise reserve
Set among the top of an extinct volcano crater, this brand new lodge is the perfect choice if you are looking for a land-based and environmentally friendly Galapagos hotel. Pikaia’s central location on Santa Cruz Island, along with its own private tortoise reserve and yacht, promises heaps of wildlife discovery.
Opened in September 2014, Pikaia Lodge not only boasts the title of the first carbon neutral accommodation, but also superbly scenic views. Guests are invited to take part in their reforestation programme where endemic trees are planted around the grounds.
Soak up the sights of misty volcanoes and the dramatic Pacific Ocean as you relax in the infinity pool, at the ‘Sumaq’ spa or from your room with its panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows.
Guestrooms here range from deluxe and superior rooms to lavish suites, one of which offers its own pool, while all provide contemporary comforts, generous bathrooms and a private terrace. Meanwhile dining is taken care of with the ‘Evolution’ Restaurant and its sophisticated menu of Peruvian and Ecuadorian cuisine. However, BBQs and romantic candle-lit dinners can also be enjoyed alfresco by the pool.
Two days exploring Santa Cruz Island
Enjoy time relaxing on land and exploring the Galapagos from a different angle while based at a luxury lodge of camp on the island of Santa Cruz. This can include mountain biking, scuba diving, nature and bird watching, or simply some laid back family time around the pool.
Transfer
Private transfer to Santa Cruz airport
Flight
Flight to Guayaquil
Guayaquil
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel in Guayaquil
Accommodation in Guayaquil
- 294 rooms
- Outdoor pool
- Health Club and Spa
- Six restaurants
- Three bars
- Complimentary airport shuttle
Located close to the airport, the Hilton Colon is an excellent option for Guayaquil. It’s the best hotel in the city with the level of service and finish that one comes to expect from this brand.
Recent refurbishment means that the interiors are elegant and contemporary. Features include a large outdoor pool area, an excellent spa and a choice of different restaurants. There is also an adjoining complex with shops and banks.
One night in Guayaquil
The largest city in Ecuador and located on the Pacific coast, Guayaquil is the country's economic hub. With a good selection of fine restaurants and cultural establishments, we can help you make the most of your short time here.
Transfer
Private transfer to Guayaquil airport
Flight
Flight to Quito
We design private journeys for people who wish to go beyond the typical and experiencing something truly special. Our amazing team of travel designers, concierges and local guides work together to create unique journeys that get deep under the skin of where you’re visiting.
Other trips you may be interested in
Get in touch
A Total Galapagos Family Adventure
How we work
It’s hard to find a more wonderful destination for a multi-generational family trip than the Galapagos Islands. Its wildlife, endemic and iconic of the islands, has no fear of predators, meaning you can get right up close to them, and there are adventurous activities that everyone in the family can enjoy. This luxury family vacation to the Galapagos has been designed so that you and your family get to experience every angle of this incredible archipelago and spend quality time together. After a short time in Ecuador’s charming capital, Quito, begin your exploration of the Galapagos with a four night luxury cruise hopping between the islands on daily water-based expeditions and guided tours with your naturalist guides. Snorkel off of pristine sand beaches, walk among fields of lava and interact with inquisitive sea lions, sun bathing iguanas and marvel at countless bird species. Then there are two further nights on dry land, discovering the island of Santa Cruz at your own pace whilst staying in a luxury lodge. This is the place to get up close to giant tortoises in the wild, mountain bike and relax with your family before returning to the mainland. | Whats included?
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Days 1-3 |
Quito |
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Flights & transfers
Meet and greet at Quito airport |
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| Private transfer to your hotel in Quito | |
|
Accommodation in Quito
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Casa Gangotena - $$$$$
Resembling something you are more likely see on a street corner of some Parisian...
•
JW Marriott Quito - $$$$$
One of Quito’s largest hotels, the JW Marriott Quito is perfect for those who want all...
•
La Casona de La Ronda - $$$$$
Step back into Ecuador’s fascinating history, with a stay at...
|
|
| Three days exploring Quito Enjoy Ecuador's capital, the first ever UNESCO World Heritage city. You'll have our list of recommendations as well as private guides on hand to enjoy the best of this historical city and contemporary hub. We can arrange a number of private, interest-led tours to booking fine restaurants for you. Talk to your travel designer about how you would like to spend your time here. |
|
| Live Quito Like a Local half-day tour Head out for a walking tour of the Old Town, intent on understanding more about the people who live in the largest and best-restored historical centre in the Americas. Begin by meeting our local resident guide, part of a grassroots NGO organization that has created a walking tour of its Quito neighbourhood, called San Roque. The guide takes us through the nearby streets, stopping to meet artisans, shopkeepers, hat makers and sweet confectioners. Up the hill on Calle Rocafuerte, we explore the San Francisco Market, one of the oldest in the capital. Here, we learn all about the fruit and vegetables produced in Ecuador and some culinary traditions. We also have the chance to meet and learn from one of the local herbal healers who have locales in the market. Continue on to the Monastery of San Francisco, one the of great religious buildings of the New World; its impressive façade and atrium that lead to its Baroque interior influenced by Moorish style, with the winged Virgin of Quito at its main altar. We will visit the temple of La Compañía de Jesús and its awesome gilded interior. We will stroll at the Independence Plaza, flanked by the Cathedral, the Presidential Palace, the Municipal Building and the Archbishop’s Palace. |
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|
Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Quito airport |
|
| Flight to the Galapagos Islands (via Guayaquil) | |
Days 3-7 |
Galapagos Islands |
|
Yachts in the Galapagos
•
Ocean Spray - $$$$$
The only mega, luxury catamaran sailing the Galapagos, Ocean Spray is a well-equipped and very...
•
Natural Paradise - $$$$$
Natural Paradise is a newly launched luxury yacht designed specifically for...
•
Santa Cruz II - $$$$$
Combining decades of experience with a state-of-the-art expedition vessel designed...
|
|
| Four night Galapagos cruise Spend your time cruising and exploring the Galapagos Islands on your choice of Jacada's selected luxury expedition cruises. The exact itinerary will depend on which you choose - our travel designer will help you pick the best for you and your family. |
|
| Nature walks on the Islands There will be a number of varied nature trails with your guides to the different islands on your itinerary to explore both the wildlife up close and the astonishing geology of the islands. |
|
| Panga rides and snorkelling Small group excursions by inflatable 'panga' Zodiac boats to snorkel and see the dense marine wildlife. |
|
Days 7-9 |
Santa Cruz Island |
|
Flights & transfers
Private transfer from Santa Cruz port to your hotel on Santa Cruz |
|
|
Accommodation in Santa Cruz Island
•
Galapagos Safari Camp - $$$$$
A truly unique way to enjoy the wonderful nature of the Galapagos islands. Set in 55-hectare...
•
Finch-Bay Eco Resort - $$$$$
Set on the island of Santa Cruz, the Finch-Bay Eco Resort is one of the best and most...
•
Pikaia Lodge - $$$$$
Set among the top of an extinct volcano crater, this brand new lodge is the perfect choice if...
|
|
| Two days exploring Santa Cruz Island Enjoy time relaxing on land and exploring the Galapagos from a different angle while based at a luxury lodge of camp on the island of Santa Cruz. This can include mountain biking, scuba diving, nature and bird watching, or simply some laid back family time around the pool. |
|
|
Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Santa Cruz airport |
|
| Flight to Guayaquil | |
Days 9-10 |
Guayaquil |
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Flights & transfers
Private transfer to your hotel in Guayaquil |
|
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Accommodation in Guayaquil
•
Hilton Colon Guayaquil - $$$$$
Located close to the airport, the Hilton Colon is an excellent option for Guayaquil....
|
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| One night in Guayaquil The largest city in Ecuador and located on the Pacific coast, Guayaquil is the country's economic hub. With a good selection of fine restaurants and cultural establishments, we can help you make the most of your short time here. |
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Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Guayaquil airport |
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| Flight to Quito |
