By Wendy Byard
Travel Advisor for solo women travellers
Galápagos Islands – Nine of the Best Isles DELETE
11 Nights | Quito, the Equator & an unforgettable Galápagos expedition cruise
Why I Chose This for You
There are some journeys that feel special because of where they take you, and others because of how rare the experience truly is. The Galápagos is one of those places people dream about for decades. Somewhere that still feels wonderfully wild, protected and alive.
For solo travellers, finding a journey like this with no solo supplement is incredibly rare. I chose this Dream Trip because it offers comfort, expert guidance and a true sense of wonder. If you’ve ever longed to disconnect from everyday noise and reconnect with nature in its purest form, this could be one of the most extraordinary journeys you’ll ever take.
About this Trip
Some places in the world still feel untouched, wild, rare, and wonderfully alive. The Galápagos Islands are one of them.
This extraordinary expedition voyage takes you deep into one of the planet’s most fascinating ecosystems, where giant tortoises roam freely, marine iguanas bask on volcanic rocks, and blue-footed boobies dive into crystal-clear waters.
Your journey begins in Quito, Ecuador’s beautiful capital, before flying to the legendary Galápagos Islands for an immersive expedition cruise aboard MS Santa Cruz II. With expert naturalist guides, small landings and daily opportunities to explore by panga boat, kayak and glass-bottom boat, this is not simply a cruise. It is a journey into nature at its most extraordinary.
Itinerary Highlights
Visit nine extraordinary Galápagos Islands
See giant tortoises in the wild
Spot marine iguanas, penguins, sea lions and blue-footed boobies
Explore volcanic landscapes and pristine beaches
Visit the famous Charles Darwin Research Station
Snorkel in crystal-clear waters alongside tropical marine life
Cruise through spectacular wildlife-rich coastlines
Stay in historic Quito with a guided city tour
Stand on the Equator at the “Middle of the World” monument
Whats Included
Return international flights
Internal flights within Ecuador and the Galápagos
2 nights in Quito before your cruise
8-night Galápagos expedition cruise aboard MS Santa Cruz II
Guided excursions and expedition landings
Galápagos National Park admission fee
Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner onboard
Wine and beer with lunch and dinner
Expedition equipment and guided activities
Complimentary Wi-Fi onboard
All gratuities included
Helpful Hints
Currency: US Dollar, the official currency of Ecuador
Weather: March is warm, with temperatures often around 25–30°C and occasional showers
Fitness Level: Moderate, with wet landings, uneven paths and optional active excursions
Packing Tip: Bring water shoes or reef sandals, a wide-brimmed hat and reef-safe sunscreen
Solo Vibe: Expedition-style, sociable and guided, with shared discovery each day
Best For: Wildlife lovers, nature seekers and once-in-a-lifetime travellers