The Galapagos in 23 photos: What a group tour is really like

written by Bex Shapiro November 2, 2017
Galapagos tour Ecuador

Up-close wildlife encounters, otherworldly scenery, and an adventure so remote and so special you feel like you’ve dreamt it. The Galapagos Islands offer all this and more – especially if you pick an Intrepid tour.

We’re pretty proud of our Galapagos trips, you see. Using small boats you get to visit parts of the archipelago that few explorers do. You swim and snorkel with sea lions and reef sharks off Isla Santa Cruz and Isla Bartolome. You hike on volcanic soil, relax on gorgeous beaches, and hang out with a ready-made group of like-minded travellers.

And whatever length your trip is, you can be rest assured you’ll be guided around by a wildlife expert and local Ecuadorian. And also be safe in the knowledge that there’ll be moments and memories that simply can’t be erased.

Just ask Mirae Campbell. The well-travelled, Canada-based photographer has been on trips with us everywhere from India to Botswana, capturing happy passengers and on-tour experiences. And what did she have to say about our 8-day Pure Galapagos tour?

The Galapagos Islands were my favorite destination I’ve ever travelled to. I cried when I came home because I just wanted to stay forever.

We think that speaks for itself, but if it doesn’t then her photos will. Coming right up: giant tortoises and adorable seals, new friends and magical places, and all manners of adventures on both land and sea…

Galapagos tour Ecuador

The view from the cabins on the Daphne boat

Galapagos tour Ecuador

An adorable blue-footed booby baby

Galapagos tour Ecuador

Small boats equal major wildlife proximity

Galapagos tour Ecuador

The group checks out the boat’s navigation

Galapagos tour Ecuador

A sea lion saying hi

Galapagos tour Ecuador

Unwinding on Isla Santa Cruz after a day of exploring

Galapagos tour Ecuador

Who doesn’t greet snorkel time with a love heart?

Galapagos tour Ecuador

There’s nothing like an Ecuadorian sunset

Galapagos tour Ecuador

Plentiful penguins spotted

Galapagos tour Ecuador

Fearless Intrepid local leader, Jacinto

Galapagos tour Ecuador

Watching the Galapagos Islands’ famous giant tortoises in the Santa Cruz Highlands

Galapagos tour Ecuador

The group exploring Bartolomé Island’s volcanic formations

Galapagos tour Ecuador

A land iguana blending into its surroundings

Galapagos tour Ecuador

Secluded hammocks are made for reflecting

Galapagos tour Ecuador

Intrepid leader, Jacinto, and a traveller share some pre-snorkel laughs

Galapagos tour Ecuador

The Daphne boat, where travellers eat, hang out and sleep

Galapagos tour Ecuador

An otherworldly-looking lava cactus on Isla Fernandina

Galapagos tour Ecuador

Meals aboard Daphne are always tasty

Galapagos tour Ecuador

A sea lion snapped underwater

Galapagos tour Ecuador

There’s always time for a smiley snap

Galapagos tour Ecuador

Aren’t flamingos fabulous?

Galapagos tour Ecuador

What a group! Memories and friends for life

Ready to book yourself the trip of a lifetime? Intrepid has countless small group adventures in the Galapagos Islands.

Looking for a little more Galapagos inspo and info? Check out our ‘best times to visit’ infographic, our essential packing guide and our vital travel checklist!

Feeling inspired?

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