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Family Friendly Tour with Kids

Galápagos Family Tour: 9 Days of Sea Lions and Snorkeling

Days Icon 9 Days
Location icon Galapagos
Budget icon From USD 2,916 p.p.
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Galápagos Family Tour Summary

This 9-day Galápagos family tour explores San Cristóbal, Santa Cruz, and Isabela at a relaxed pace, with activities balanced by free time for the beach and a full free day on Santa Cruz. Children can snorkel with sea lions at Playa Mann, cycle through Isabela’s wetlands past flamingo lagoons, and swim at Los Túneles, where the shallow water makes snorkeling a breeze. It’s a family-friendly way to experience the islands without packing every day with excursions. Compare it with the other Galápagos island-hopping tours in our collection.

Rebecca Adventure Travel is a B Corp Certified, female-founded tour operator based in Quito, creating tailor-made journeys across Ecuador and the Galápagos since 2014. This family-focused tour includes triple or connecting rooms, snorkeling equipment, and inter-island crossings scheduled to allow for downtime afterward. Airport transfers, park-certified naturalist guides, and 24/7 local support in English, Dutch, and Spanish are included. Children under 12 receive a 10% discount; park entry and the INGALA card are paid separately in cash.

Highlights

  • check Playa Mann & Sea Lions

    Snorkel and swim alongside playful sea lions in the clear waters off Playa Mann.

  • check Flamingo Lagoon & Wetlands

    Cycle through Isabela’s wetlands, where flamingos congregate around the island’s lagoons.

  • check Los Túneles

    Swim through shallow lava channels and spot penguins, sea turtles, rays, and colorful fish.

  • check Tortuga Bay

    Walk or kayak along this beautiful white-sand beach and look for marine life in the surrounding waters.

Reviews

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Geoff V 
 
15/08/2025
 
 
 
 
 Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5 
Galapagos trip
Every detail and excursion was perfect. The guides were outstanding, hotel was first class. I would highly recommend Rebecca
  
 
 Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Daniel R 
 
06/02/2025
 
 
 
 
 Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5 
Intimate luxury Galapagos immersion
Highly recommend. The guide, nature hikes, snorkeling, kayaking, and food were outstanding. Rebecca Adventures is responsive and friendly.
  
 
 Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Tripadvisor rating score: 4.9 of 5, 
based on 588 reviews

Prices

Prices, based on number of guests, start at:
3 guestsUSD 3,471 p.p.
4 guestsUSD 3,007 p.p.
5 or more guestsUSD 2,916 p.p.

Galápagos Family Tour: Day-by-Day Itinerary

Download itinerary

  • DAY 1: San Cristóbal arrival and Playa Mann

    Red and white lighthouse on a rocky point near Playa Mann in the Galápagos with a town and ocean in the back

    This Galápagos family tour begins with your arrival at San Cristóbal Airport, where your driver will meet you and take you to your hotel in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. After settling in, head to a nearby beach for a gentle kayaking experience, with a brief safety introduction before getting on the water.

    After lunch, visit Playa Mann independently. The white-sand beach is about 15 minutes from town, with clear water that’s ideal for snorkeling and frequent sightings of Galápagos sea lions.

    • Activity Activity:Snorkeling. Kayaking.
    • Transport Transport:Car.
    • Meal Meal:Lunch.
    • Accommodations Accommodation:Casa Opuntia or similar.

  • DAY 2: Kicker Rock snorkeling

    The iconic volcanic rock spires rising from the sea at sunset on a kicker rock tour in the Galápagos Islands

    After breakfast, head to the passenger pier for a speedboat excursion to Kicker Rock, also known as León Dormido. The dramatic formation rises about 140 meters above the sea, with a channel running between its two volcanic rocks.

    Snorkel in the channel, where the sheltered waters attract sharks, rays, sea turtles, and other marine life. Marine birds can also be seen around the rocks before you return to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno in the afternoon.

    • Activity Activity:Snorkeling.
    • Transport Transport:Boat.
    • Meal Meal:Breakfast. Lunch.
    • Accommodations Accommodation:Casa Opuntia or similar.

  • DAY 3: Flight to Isabela and Puerto Villamil

    Brown pelican perched on a lava rock outcrop in turquoise coastal waters off Isabela Island near Tintoreras

    In the morning, transfer to San Cristóbal Airport for the short flight to Isabela. The flight takes about 45 minutes, offering aerial views of the islands along the way. The small aircraft carries up to nine passengers.

    On arrival, your driver will take you to your hotel in Puerto Villamil. The inter-island flight has a 25-pound baggage allowance per passenger, including checked and carry-on luggage. Additional baggage can be purchased for USD 2 per extra pound.

    • Activity Activity:Island Hopping.
    • Transport Transport:Airplane. Car.
    • Meal Meal:Breakfast.
    • Accommodations Accommodation:Hotel Albemarle or similar.

  • DAY 4: Flamingo lagoon and the wetlands bike ride

    Two pink flamingos wading gracefully through shallow brackish waters at Flamingo Lagoon in the Galápagos Islands

    Start the day with a visit to the Flamingo Lagoon, one of the largest coastal lagoons in the Galápagos and an important site for the islands’ flamingo population.

    Later, pick up your bikes in Puerto Villamil and ride toward the Giant Tortoise Breeding Center, where you can see tortoises at different stages of life. Continue toward the Wall of Tears, keeping an eye out for giant tortoises along the road and enjoying views across Isabela’s wetlands and countryside.

    • Activity Activity:Hiking. Biking.
    • Meal Meal:Breakfast.
    • Accommodations Accommodation:Hotel Albemarle or similar.

  • DAY 5: Los Túneles snorkeling

    Green sea turtle swimming below snorkelers in the clear water of Los Túneles, Isabela Island

    Depending on availability, your Los Túneles excursion will depart at either 7:00 a.m. or 11:00 a.m. After a 45-minute speedboat ride, you’ll arrive at this unusual lava landscape, where arches, tunnels, and shallow, clear water create excellent conditions for snorkeling.

    The entrance area can have strong waves, so follow your guide’s instructions carefully. Departures include a snack. After exploring the tunnels and surrounding marine habitat, return to Puerto Villamil.

    • Activity Activity:Snorkeling.
    • Transport Transport:Car. Boat.
    • Meal Meal:Breakfast. Snack.
    • Accommodations Accommodation:Hotel Albemarle or similar.

  • DAY 6: Speedboat to Santa Cruz and Puerto Ayora

    Wooden boardwalk and pier overlooking water taxis in clear blue bay waters in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island

    Today, transfer from your hotel to the Isabela dock and board a public speedboat to Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz. The crossing takes approximately 2½ hours, making this a good day to keep the schedule relaxed.

    On arrival, your driver will meet you at the dock and take you to your hotel in Puerto Ayora, a short five- to ten-minute drive away. Spend the rest of the day settling in or exploring the port town at your own pace.

    • Activity Activity:Exploring. Relaxing.
    • Transport Transport:Speedboat. Car.
    • Meal Meal:Breakfast.
    • Accommodations Accommodation:Hotel Ikala or similar.

  • DAY 7: Santa Cruz highlands and Tortuga Bay

    A giant tortoise with its mouth wide open amidst lush green grass in the Santa Cruz Highlands of the Galápagos Islands

    This morning, head into the Santa Cruz highlands to see giant tortoises roaming freely through the forest. A relaxed hike through the ranch takes you past endemic plants and finches, with a guide leading you through ancient lava tunnels before a local lunch at the ranch.

    If time and energy allow, visit Tortuga Bay independently from Puerto Ayora. The beach is about a 25-minute walk from town, with white sand, turquoise water, marine iguanas, and the option to rent kayaks. Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no food or drink facilities on the beach.

    • Activity Activity:Hiking. Exploring.
    • Transport Transport:Car.
    • Meal Meal:Breakfast. Lunch.
    • Accommodations Accommodation:Hotel Ikala or similar.

  • DAY 8: Free day on Santa Cruz

    Group of hungry brown pelicans with beaks wide open waiting for scraps at the Santa Cruz Fish Market in Puerto Ayora

    Today is free to enjoy Santa Cruz at your own pace. Spend the day at the beach, explore Puerto Ayora, visit the fish market, or choose another activity from our Self Guide for Santa Cruz Island.

    With no scheduled excursions, this is also a chance to slow down after several active days and let the family choose how much—or how little—to do.

    • Meal Meal:Breakfast.
    • Accommodations Accommodation:Hotel Ikala or similar.

  • DAY 9: Baltra transfer and departure

    Two happy travelers with backpacks waving in front of the departures sign at Baltra Airport in the Galápagos Islands

    Your transfer from Puerto Ayora to Baltra Airport will be scheduled approximately three hours before your flight. The journey takes about 45 minutes to the Itabaca Channel.

    From there, cross the channel by ferry, which takes around 10 minutes, then continue by bus to Baltra Airport for your flight. This concludes your Galápagos family tour. Safe travels!

    • Activity Activity:Departure.
    • Transport Transport:Car. Ferry. Bus.
    • Meal Meal:Breakfast.

Galápagos Family Tour Map

9-Day Galápagos Islands Family Friendly Tour Map

Inclusions

  • Meals as described in the itinerary.
  • Accommodation in double or triple room.
  • Transportation on and between the islands as described in the itinerary.
  • Private airport pick-ups and drop-offs.
  • Private activities and transfers as described in the itinerary.
  • Snorkeling equipment
  • Professional English-speaking guide during tours.
  • Entrance fees to the mentioned activities.
  • 24/7 assistance in English, Dutch and Spanish.

Exclusions

  • International flights.
  • Flights between Ecuador’s Mainland and the Galápagos Islands.
  • Activities, meals, and drinks not described in the itinerary.
  • Entrance fee for the Galápagos National Park: $ 200 per adult, $100 per child (cash only).
  • Migratory Control Card / Ingala Transit Card: $ 20 p.p. (cash only).
  • Isabela dock fee $10 p.p. cash only.
  • Water Taxi (the small boat that takes you from the speedboat to the harbor and back).
  • For rent: wetsuit (recommended between May – November).
  • Personal medical and travel insurance. Can be included upon request.
  • Optional tips for the guide.

Accommodations

Illuminated garden courtyard with arches and stone paths at Casa Opuntia, Galápagos
★ ★ ★ ★
📍 San Cristobal

Casa Opuntia

Oceanfront boutique hotel situated along the main boardwalk with direct beach access.

  • Kid-friendly
  • Outdoor Pool
  • Oceanfront
Albemarle Hotel - Isabela
★ ★ ★ ★
📍 Isabela Island

Hotel Albemarle

Charming Mediterranean-style boutique hotel directly set along Puerto Villamil Beach.

  • Beachfront Location
  • Outdoor Pool
  • Sea Views
Ikala - Santa Cruz
★ ★ ★ ★
📍 Santa Cruz

Hotel Ikala Galápagos

Modern eco-friendly boutique hotel in Puerto Ayora offering serene island comfort.

  • Outdoor Pool
  • Eco Friendly
  • Rooftop Bar

9 Days in the Galápagos with Kids: FAQs

  • What age is best for a Galápagos family tour?

    From about six years old, children can snorkel with a flotation vest. Under six, the boat crossings and full daily schedules can become a hindrance.

  • Can young children snorkel in the Galápagos?

    Yes, with buoyancy vests and in sheltered sites. Playa Mann and Los Túneles are both shallow and calm. Guides run a shore briefing before every excursion.

  • Is 9 days too long in the Galápagos with kids?

    Nine days allow for one activity per morning, free afternoons, and a full leisure day, making it ideal for children. Shorter trips often squeeze too many excursions in a single day.

  • Do children get a discount on Galápagos tours?

    Yes, 10% for children under 12 on the tour price. Galápagos National Park entry is USD 100 for children under 12 against USD 200 for adults, paid in cash on arrival.

  • Which Galápagos island is best for families?

    Isabela. The town of Puerto Villamil has a swimmable beach, flat cycling, and the shallowest snorkeling in the archipelago at Los Túneles.

Additional Information

  • Prices for the upcoming travel season are subject to change.
  • Essential items to bring include comfortable and lightweight clothing (with a jacket as a precaution), water, sunblock, sunglasses, and your passport.
  • To enter Ecuador, your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your intended departure from the country.
  • Prices are subject to seasonal surcharges during Christmas, New Year’s, and Holy Week (Semana Santa).
  • For children under the age of 12, there is a 10% discount.
  • Activity schedules are subject to change based on departure/arrival times and availability. All inclusions are guaranteed until the afternoon of the final day of the itinerary.
  • Maximize your time in the Galápagos by choosing early arrival and late departure flights. Late arrivals or early departures may cause you to miss some of the included tours.
  • Bring smaller baggage/bags since public transportation on the Galápagos Islands is quite limited.
  • ​​There are no guides on the public speedboat transportation between islands.
  • It is suggested to have current travel insurance, including personal medical insurance and COVID-19 coverage. Please inform us of any known medical conditions you have.
  • Take the necessary precautions to avoid food poisoning (always wash your hands before eating, don’t eat street food, only eat peeled fruits, etc.).
  • Tap water in the Galápagos Islands might contain bacteria and should not be consumed, not even for brushing your teeth. Bottled or purified water is always recommended.
  • Rebecca Adventure Travel reserves the right to change the itinerary without prior notice due to weather conditions, availability, National Park regulations or notifications, or unforeseen circumstances.
  • When flying to the Galápagos from Quito or Guayaquil, we recommend arriving in the city at least 24 hours before your flight to avoid inconveniences.

Advantages of Booking with Rebecca Adventure Travel

  • Impactful Travel: Develop meaningful connections that provide mutual enrichment for both travelers and host cultures.
  • Empowering Locals: Support family-owned businesses, immerse yourself in local culture, and contribute to local economies.
  • Sustainable Travel: Preserve cultures and environments for future generations with our Huella Positiva, a sustainable and regenerative tourism model.
  • Peace of Mind: We’re here for you every step of the way, offering requisite insurance, certifications, and rebooking options.
  • Customized Service: Our personalized Travel Curator ensures your trip meets your needs and exceeds your expectations.

When you book a tour with us, you agree to our terms and conditions.

Exact Code: 25FAMKID9

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