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The Galapagos Islands
June 17 - 24, 2025

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  • Overview
  • Itinerary and Map
  • Pricing Details
  • Conditions
  • Contact Us
  • Resources

Nestled in the Pacific Ocean at the confluence of three ocean currents, the Galapagos Islands are a haven for explorers, nature enthusiasts and those seeking a profound connection with the natural world. Join us on a transformative expedition voyage through these enchanting islands to celebrate life's diversity and to witness firsthand the stunning display of nature's endless wonders.


Highlights:
– Visit must-see highlights of Quito during a full-day, guided city tour, including Old Town Quito, the colorful San Francisco Market, La Compañía de Jesús (the "Golden Church") and Casa del Alabado Archaeological Museum.

– Experience unparalleled opportunities for immersive, up-close encounters with a myriad of wildlife. Walk among curious creatures on shore, snorkel beside sea lions and turtles in the clear waters of the world's second largest marine reserve and witness genuine interactions between species in the wild.

– Benefit from knowledgeable naturalist guides who will provide insight on the origins of the unique flora and fauna endemic to the Galapagos Islands.

– Choose from a variety of water activities, as Isabela II is well equipped with snorkel gear and ocean kayaks. Guides will also lead numerous outings by panga and glass-bottom boat.

– Enjoy exclusive access to many island locations as Isabela II has extended sailing privileges, meaning other boats won’t be in sight during many moorings and shore landings.

– Visit historic sites, including the Charles Darwin Research Station,  the iconic site of Galapagos National Park research and conservation efforts most notable for its captive breeding program for the Galapagos giant tortoise; and Sullivan Bay on Santiago Island, one of the ?rst sites visited by Charles Darwin.

Day 1 - Depart U.S. | Quito, EcuadorGalapagos Map
Day 2 - Quito
Day 3 - Quito | Flight to Baltra | Santa Cruz: Highlands | Puerto Ayora – Embarkation
Day 4 - Bartolomé | Santiago: Sullivan Bay
Day 5 - Santa Cruz: Dragon Hill | Santiago: Buccaneer Cove
Day 6 - Isabela: Punta Vicente Roca | Fernandina: Punta Espinoza
Day 7 - Baltra – Disembarkation | Flight to Quito, Ecuador
Day 8 - Quito | Depart for home city

Base Price: from $5,795 per person, based on double occupancy

    • $9,995 solo accommodations.
    • Airfare additional.
    • No port or VAT tax charged.

Inclusions:

    • 2 nights at the 5-star Casa Gangotena, 4 nights aboard the Isabela II and 1 night at the Wyndham Quito Airport.
    • 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 4 dinner including a special farewell dinner
    • See brochure for full details

  • Tar Heel Travel is a member exclusive perk.
  • There must be one Carolina Alumni member in a room.  Membership is open to anyone.  Learn more.
  • By reserving on this tour, you agree to the terms and conditions specific to this tour which are set by the tour operator. This information can be found in the tour brochure.
  • The Carolina Alumni Travel Office and tour operator reserve the right to to decline or accept a reservation should a person's health, mental condition, physical infirmity or attitude jeopardize the operation of the tour or the rights, welfare, or enjoyment of other participants.  Refunds will be made in accordance with the cancellation policy listed in the tour brochure.
  • Please contact us if you have questions about this trip or group travel. We're happy to help in any way we can.
  • Phone: (877) 962-3980 (If we are unable to answer your call, please leave a detailed message with your name, phone number and email.)
  • Email: travel@unc.edu
  • All inquiries and room requests are answered in the order in which they are received. 
  • If you are ready to request a reservation, please submit your reservation request form.
  • If you wish us to hold a room for 2 business days, please send us the passenger's names, address, phone number and email.  This information must be provided in order to hold a room.