6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS

Family Safaris

Our Galapagos Family Safari combines private wildlife tours on Santa Cruz Island with day excursions to uninhabited islands. The itinerary is tailored around your family’s needs, interests and pace.

We’ve been hosting families here for nearly two decades. Our founders raised their own children at the Camp, which is why every detail of our Family Safari, from the child-friendly naturalist guides to the two-bedroom Family Safari Tents and three-bedroom Family Suite, reflects genuine, hard-won family knowledge. Whether you’re travelling with a six-year-old or a gap-year teenager, we’ll build a safari around them.

We know that the Galapagos Islands are a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for most families. We take this responsibility seriously and are passionate about getting it right.

OVERVIEW

ITINERARY

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GALLERY

VIDEO

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OVERVIEW

Our Family Safari combines private excursions on Santa Cruz Island with either private or semi-private day boat excursions to neighbouring uninhabited islands.

Days on Land

Family Safari days on land

In addition to two days of sea excursions, our Family Safari typically includes three days exploring Santa Cruz Island.

Family Galapagos Tour Giant Tortoises

As one of the most diverse islands in the Galapagos archipelago, Santa Cruz has a variety of ecosystems; from the forested highlands where our camp is based, to the dry, arid coastline, and the transitional zone between the two.

These different landscapes offer a multitude of ways to explore the island’s wildlife and geology, making it fun, and above all, easy for families to explore these Galapagos wonders.

Depending on the itinerary you craft with your Safari Designer, your Safari can include a visit to a giant tortoise reserve, venturing underground into lava tunnels, biking to the beach, surfing, kayaking, learning about the conservation work in the Galapagos Islands at the Charles Darwin Research Station, and more.

During school holidays, our Kids Club caters to children of all ages, and our 55 hectares of land give families the space to explore, play and unwind together.

Days at Sea

family sea trip galapagos

In addition to two days exploring Santa Cruz Island, our Family Safari typically includes two days at sea. One day exploring an uninhabited island and the other day on a family fishing adventure.

Family Galapagos Vacation fishing adventure

Learn more about our fishing adventure below.

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ITINERARY

Family Safari: Sample Itinerary

Designed with our years of experience living, travelling and hosting family friends and their children in the Galapagos Islands, our Family Safaris are a combination of wildlife tours and activities on Santa Cruz Island, and day excursions by boat to beautiful, uninhabited neighbouring islands. We craft tailor-made, life-changing itineraries that accommodate the needs and interests of all family members, from toddlers, tweens and teens, to parents and grandparents.

Craft your own Galapagos family adventure!

The following is a sample itinerary. Please contact one of our Safari Designers for more information on the tours, activities and experiences we offer, and to discuss how these can be adapted to best suit the needs and interests of your children and family members.

Type of activity

LAND SAFARI

SEA SAFARI

DAY 1

SANTA CRUZ ISLAND: THE HIGHLANDS AND THE GIANT TORTOISE

Welcome to the Galapagos! After leaving the VIP airport lounge you will meet your English-speaking naturalist guide who will be with your family for the duration of your stay with us (according to the level of privacy chosen).

To maximize your first day in the Galapagos Islands, you will be taken to a number of visiting sites on the way to Galapagos Safari Camp. On the short drive from the airport to the ferry terminal on Baltra Island, who in the family will be the first to spot a land iguana?

After crossing the narrow corridor of water that separates Baltra Island from Santa Cruz, you continue by car to the highlands of Santa Cruz, stopping at Los Gemelos (The Twin Craters); two colossal, volcanic sinkholes. On a gentle hike around the rim, your guide will point out the birds of the endemic Scalesia forest such as Galapagos doves and Darwin’s finches.

From Los Gemelos you continue to a reserve for giant tortoises. Your tour of the reserve will follow a gentle circuit trail where you get within meters of these iconic Galapagos creatures.

The tortoise reserve also contains a network of underground lava tubes, formed centuries ago when lava flows cooled at the edges but kept flowing in the middle, leaving cave-like tunnels in their wake. To fully appreciate the uniqueness of the Galapagos Islands, and its wildlife, it’s important to first understand the archipelago’s geology and volcanic history. Keep a look out too for short-eared owls, as they are occasionally spotted in the trees.

End the day at Galapagos Safari Camp, where children can explore our 50-hectare farm on foot or bike, pick tropical fruit, harvest cacao or enjoy a dip in our little pool. Parents may prefer to order a cocktail on our observation deck and watch the sun set over the National Park and distant islands in the Pacific Ocean.

DAY 2

SANTA CRUZ ISLAND: THE EAST

This morning we drive to the enormous Cerro Mesa crater for a short walk in the wetlands. The Cerro Mesa reserve is home to a wonderful variety of birds and the occasional bathing tortoise. Your tour will end at a viewpoint, where, on a clear day, you can survey the lush landscape of Santa Cruz Island as well as some of its neighbouring islands.

Afterwards we jump on our bikes for a downhill ride to Garrapatero, a white-sanded beach that is set far away from the cruise ship crowds, making it an idea spot for a picnic. Kayaking can also be arranged here and is a fun way for families to explore the coastal mangroves, and their wildlife.

Set just behind the beach is a small lagoon where flamingos are occasionally spotted.

On the way back to camp, you can visit an organic coffee plantation where children have the chance to pick coffee beans (if the season allows) and learn about responsible small-scale family in the Galapagos.

In the evening, back at the Camp, parents can relax while the children take a private art class with a local artist.

DAY 3

AT SEA: EXPLORE AN UNINHABITED ISLAND

Today you will enjoy a day cruise by motor boat to one of the neighbouring, uninhabited islands close to our island of Santa Cruz: North Seymour, Bartolomé, Plazas or Santa Fe. Please see the tab labelled SEA for more details on these islands.

Each of the islands’ tours include a guided walk and a guided snorkel in the Galapagos Marine Reserve.

Lunch is served onboard the boat (food is not permitted in the National Park).

These boat tours are usually arranged as shared excursions (shared boat and shared guide). However, we can also arrange for your private guide to accompany you on. If you would like a 100% private tour, we can also charter a boat for your family.

At the end of the day you return to Galapagos Safari Camp in time for an evening stroll, family bike ride or a dip in the pool, followed by a sunset drink and dinner.

ⓘ We design our Family Safaris according to the best experiences possible at any given time of year and around yacht operations. We will confirm the islands you will visit once you get in touch.

DAY 4

AT SEA: FAMILY FISHING ADVENTURE

Our private fishing experience is both a wildlife adventure and cultural exchange opportunity, making it a a firm favourite among families.

The fishermen have very safe, modern speedboats, which you will charter for the day. With your guide acting as translator, the fishermen share anecdotes from a lifetime at sea, and the children learn local fishing tricks. If you’re lucky you may even catch a tuna, and the fisherman can prepare sashimi for your lunch.

The day also includes a guided snorkelling trip and some time to explore a secluded bay. Here, you can stroll along a deserted beach, or snorkel in the bay’s clear, turquoise waters.

If you prefer to limit fishing and enhance the snorkelling or beach experience, your guide is there to adapt the day to your preferences.

For more information on this day, please see the tab labelled ‘FISHING‘.

Back at the Camp in the afternoon, there’s time to go for a walk, enjoy the pool and relax before dinner.

DAY 5

SANTA CRUZ ISLAND: CHARLES DARWIN RESEARCH STATION AND BAY TOUR

After a leisurely breakfast, we visit the famous Charles Darwin Research Station and the Tortoise Breeding Centre to learn about conservation efforts and scientific research on the islands.

The children will have an up-close experience with the tortoises that are the islands’ namesake. Parents can enjoy free time to wander around Puerto Ayora, while your guide takes the children to a local playground or on a tour of the local fish market on the waterfront.

After lunch, walk or take a speedboat to Tortuga Bay, a white sandy beach with basking marine iguanas, and shallow turquoise waters teeming with white-tip reef sharks and fish. Or you can join a snorkeling boat that will take you to frolic with sea lions.

DAY 6

RELAX BEFORE MORNING DEPARTURE

Enjoy the serene nature and peace of the Camp this morning. Relax, walk, swim or enjoy the sunrise from our viewpoint before departure to the airport and your next destination. (Here’s where you’ll wish you had extended your journey!).

Please remember that this is just a sample based on some of the options available. Get in touch so we can craft your perfect journey with us!

DAY 6+

...OR EXTEND YOUR TRIP

Our Safari Designers can suggest itinerary extensions to accommodate your dates and interests. Options include:

Exploring more of Santa Cruz
Exploring more uninhabited islands
Isabela Island Extension
Dive Extension

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More privacy?

Our Safaris are semi-private tours by default, combining private excursions on Santa Cruz Island and shared boat excursions to uninhabited islands.

For added privacy, you can opt for shared boat transfers with a private guided tour, or a fully private Safari by chartering a boat for the sea excursions.

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RATES

Rates:

Our Safaris are tailored to suit your needs and preferences. The final cost will vary based on your personal selections and dates of travel (please refer to our Rates page for pricing during the festive period).

Our Family Safaris start from:

USD 7015 per person for 5N/6D in Tented Double

USD 5525 per person for 5N/6D in Family Suite (based on 6 guests)

Included:

Accommodation
Private land excursions and transfers on Santa Cruz, with private english-speaking naturalist guide
Shared* boat excursions and tours of uninhabited islands (private boats also possible), with shared English-speaking naturalist guide. Also includes a snorkeling tour. [*Note: Shared excursions are not exclusive to guests of Galapagos Safari Camp and may include guests from other accommodations.]
Chartered boat for the fishing experience
All meals and welcome drink. Our chef has a substantial repertoire of kid-friendly meals and we prepare plenty of healthy snacks for each day’s outings.
Airport VIP services
Wetsuits and snorkeling equipment
Activities and visits detailed in your itinerary

Not Included:

Flights (all flights from mainland Ecuador to the Galapagos Islands can be arranged upon request)
Galapagos National Park entrance fee (as detailed in documentation)
Visitor transit card (as detailed in documentation)
Beverages
Laundry service
Insurance (please check your travel insurance is valid in your country of origin prior to your journey)
Gratuities

For more details on our pricing, including rates over the festive period, please visit our Rates page.

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GALLERY

Family Safari Gallery

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VIDEO

Video

This short film, courtesy of CK Representation, offers a glimpse into what a Family Safari at Galapagos Safari Camp looks like.

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ENQUIRE

To learn more about our Safaris and to start planning your adventure, please contact one of our Safari Designers:

MAKE AN ENQUIRY

Family Safari: FAQ

What is the minimum age for a Galapagos Family Safari?

There is no minimum age. We’ve welcomed babies and toddlers on our Family Safaris, and our itineraries are fully flexible around age and energy levels. Generally, children aged six and over can participate in most activities including snorkelling and short hikes. Our naturalist guides are experienced at engaging younger children, and the Kids’ Club provides structured activities during school holidays.

Is a land-based safari better than a cruise for families?

For most families, yes. A land-based family safari removes the biggest practical concerns of cruising with children: seasickness, rigid daily schedules, and shared spaces with strangers.

At Galapagos Safari Camp, your family has a private home base on Santa Cruz Island, flexible daily itineraries, and the freedom to adapt each day to your children’s energy and interests.

Day excursions to uninhabited islands give you the ‘cruise experience’ without being confined to small cabins and having to sleeping on a boat.

Can you accommodate dietary restrictions for children?

Yes. We accommodate all dietary requirements — allergies, intolerances, and preferences. Please inform us when booking and we’ll ensure our kitchen and any packed lunches are prepared accordingly.

What is the Kids' Club and when does it run?

Our Kids’ Club runs during school holiday periods and offers a programme of nature-based creative activities, led by our camp team.

It’s designed to offer parents some downtime after the day’s activities, giving children space to play and create.

The Giant Tortoise Reserve

Land of Giants

Close to our camp is a large nature reserve that is home to hundreds of giant tortoises. This highland sanctuary is one of the best places in the Galapagos Islands to see these iconic reptiles in the wild.

Wildlife at Camp

Families will see Galapagos wildlife, including giant tortoises at Camp

A Galapagos giant tortoise at Camp

Another top spot for observing giant tortoises in the wild is at Galapagos Safari Camp. They are often seen (or heard) munching leaves under the tents or shuffling along one of the camp’s paths.

Lava Tunnels

An underground lava tunnel

There are also a number of underground lava tunnels on Santa Cruz that children can explore and gain a better understanding of how the islands were formed.

Tortuga Bay Beach

Tortuga Bay is a popular beach with families in the Galapagos

One of the best beaches in the Galapagos is on Santa Cruz. Tortuga Bay can’t be accessed on a cruise ship, and is one of the most popular land excursions on our Family Safari. White sands, peppered with marine iguanas, stretch for hundreds of meters, making it an ideal playground for children of all ages. (Note: requires a 50-minute walk to access).

Surfing at Tortuga

Surfing lessons

With advanced notice, we can arrange a surfing lesson at Tortuga Bay for adults and/or children. It is not uncommon to see a marine iguana, or sometimes even a sea lion surfing the wave alongside you.

At the far end of Tortuga Bay is a sheltered cove where we can also arrange kayaking.

Garrapatero beach

Garrapetero beach

Another beach that families enjoy is Garrapatero. Behind this lesser-known beach sits a lagoon where flamingos are often spotted. Families have the option of biking to this beach from Camp.

Biking

Biking in the private grounds of Galapagos Safari Camp

Families can borrow bikes to explore the quiet lanes of the forested highlands, stopping to greet the lumbering giant tortoises that frequent the area.

Puerto Ayora

Exploring Puerto Ayora with kids

Older kids may appreciate a trip into Puerto Ayora, where they can wander its laid-back streets, art galleries, souvenir shops, and encounter the town’s resident wildlife.

Lonesome George

Learning the significance of Lonesome George

Our Family Safaris also offer an opportunity to visit the late Lonesome George, the legendary giant tortoise whom David Attenborough once described as ‘a very important animal. Probably more than any single creature’.

The preserved body of this Pinta tortoise – the last of its species – is on display in the Charles Darwin Research Station in Puerto Ayora.

Kids Club

Activities at Camp with the Kids Club

After a day of exploration, children can join the Camp’s Kids Club (available during school holidays). Through engaging, sustainability-themed activities, such as jewelry making with recycled plastic, children will develop a deeper appreciation for these fragile islands and their legendary wildlife.

Pool

We also have (an appropriately small) pool for cooling off after a day of adventure. Please note the pool is not supervised.

Customise Your Safari

To tailor your Family Safari further, please check our full list of Safari Experiences.

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What can families expect from the Fishing Adventure?

Our Fishing Adventure

Our Family fishing adventure

Charter a boat and spend the day with a local fisherman exploring the waters around Santa Cruz. This is a chance to experience the wild beauty of the Galapagos, exploring spots that are only accessible to local fisherman, and not to all visitors. If you’re lucky, dolphins might even follow you in the boat’s wake.

Lunch is served on board the boat as food is not permitted on the beach / in the National Park.

Family Bonding Fun

Combines fishing with snorkeling and time on a secluded beach

This experience has become a firm favorite with our guests, as it combines wildlife experiences, cultural exchange, swimming, snorkeling and a visit to a secluded beach.

Responsible Fishing

Family Galapagos Vacation fishing adventure

A National Park initiative

It is also part of an initiative with the Galapagos National Park, to provide fishermen with an alternative means of livelihood while reducing the impact of overfishing.

Private Boat

Private fishing boat

Once aboard the fisherman’s simple, yet fully equipped motorboat, the captain will navigate to a spot where the best fishing can be enjoyed.

Catch Your Lunch!

Family time

After a hands-on lesson, you can try your luck at catching lunch. The most common species caught on this Safari are Yellowfin Tuna and Palometa. The time spent fishing can be modified according to everyone’s needs on the day.

Sashimi

If you catch tuna, you can eat it for lunch!

If you are successful, the crew can prepare sashimi on the boat for your family to enjoy for lunch. (Note: The National Park no longer allows visitors to take their catch off the boat for consumption elsewhere).

Secluded Beach

Unwind on a secluded beach, far from the cruise ship crowds

In between fishing you will have the opportunity to snorkel and explore a secluded beach on Santa Cruz’s coastline that can only be accessed by sea.

Family Time

Moments children will cherish

Our fishing adventure can be enjoyed by guests young and old, no matter if they’re seasoned fishermen or complete novices. The important thing is to share time together as a family.

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Which uninhabited islands are best to visit with kids?

Uninhabited Islands

Uninhabited Galapagos Islands - family tour

All of the uninhabited islands we visit are well suited to families. Our Safaris typically include day trips to North Seymour, Bartolomé, South Plaza and Santa Fe (one island per day).

Each visit follows a clearly marked trail and is led by a certified guide, with time for swimming or snorkeling in calm bays.

These visits are shared by default, with a shared boat and guide. For added privacy, families may opt for shared boat transfers with a private guided tour, which allows for a more flexible pace and closer attention to individual needs.

Bartolome Island

Navigation time: 2 hours, each way
Walking difficulty: Moderate-Hard

In Bartolome, the walk is a fairly steep climb, up wooden walkways and steps, to the viewpoint at the apex of the island. On the way up, your guide will make a number of stops to point out the islands’ flora and fauna. The view from the top, overlooking the famous Pinnacle Rock and surrounding islands is spectacular, and worth the effort.

Bartolome Island: Snorkel

Families might snorkel with penguins at Bartolome

Snorkeling with penguins

After lunch (served on board your boat), there is time for you to snorkel around the coastline, near the base of Pinnacle Rock. These waters are often frequented by Galapagos penguins, and swimming alongside one of these friendly little water birds is an indisputable highlight for most kids.

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North Seymour Island

Navigation time: 30 minutes – 1 hour, each way
Walking difficulty: Easy

North Seymour is one of the closest islands to Santa Cruz, making it an easy day trip for families. Despite its small size, the island is brimming with wildlife, including frigatebirds, blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, land iguanas and sea lions.

North Seymour: Snorkel

Bachas Beach

This day trip also includes a visit to the beautiful white sands of Bachas beach on Santa Cruz, which is only accessible by boat. Here families will get an opportunity to snorkel in the calm waters of its bay.

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South Plaza Island

South Plaza

Navigation time: 1 hour each way
Walking difficulty: Easy

Upon arriving at South Plaza, you and your family may have to make your way around a large colony of sea lions on the stone jetty. From here, you will walk among prickly cactus and carpets of bright red plants. Watch out for the land iguanas, marine iguanas, and if you are exceptionally lucky, the exclusive hybrid iguana – a cross between land and marine, only ever found on this island.

South Plaza Island: Snorkel

Snorkeling wiht sea lions

After lunch you can snorkel in a nearby cove where you may encounter sea lions, turtles and lots of colorful fish.

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Santa Fe Island

Navigation time: 1.5 hours each way
Walking difficulty: Easy

Again, you may be greeted by a large colony of sea lions as you are transferred by dingy from your boat to the beach. After spending some time observing these playful Galapagos mammals you will be guided inland, along a little path, with giant Opuntia cacti towering above you. Again, look out for the land iguanas – a particular species that is endemic to the island of Santa Fe itself. You may also spot Galapagos hawks, the islands’ top predator.

Santa Fe Island: Snorkel

Galapagos Family Safari snorkel Santa Fe Island

Santa Fe bay

After lunch on the boat you will be invited to snorkel in the bay of Santa Fe, where you will likely be checked out by curious sea lions, and all sorts of other marine wonders.

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More Resources

Family Travel Galapagos: Guides, Safaris, Stories: Our guide to family travel in the Galapagos

Family-Friendly: Why families love our Camp and Safaris

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Highlights

An emphasis on learning and engagement with the natural world.

Creative time at our Kids' Club during school holidays.

A day at sea with local fishermen, snorkeling and exploring hidden beaches

Flexible itineraries to keep every member of the family happy.

Your own child-friendly private guide.

A FEW OF OUR

Guest Reviews

An absolute fairytale trip

What can I say about the safari camp that others have not gushed about already? The location is incredible, you wake up every morning to see the ocean and maybe be greeted by a few tortoises on the wa

REVIEW

Understated Luxury

Our family of 4 (parents and two twenty-something children) wanted an adventure and settled on the Galapagos and Galapagos Safari Camp for a week of non-stop activities. It was fantastic. From the

REVIEW

Amazing Family Summer Vacation

I can't begin to explain in words the amazing experience we had. A family of 4 with an 11 yr old and a 9yr old. The kids LOVED the cookies, the handmade stuffed animals and the cards/sayings. The tent

REVIEW

Family Safaris

Days on Land

Days at Sea

Family Safari: Sample Itinerary

Craft your own Galapagos family adventure!

SANTA CRUZ ISLAND: THE HIGHLANDS AND THE GIANT TORTOISE

SANTA CRUZ ISLAND: THE EAST

AT SEA: EXPLORE AN UNINHABITED ISLAND

AT SEA: FAMILY FISHING ADVENTURE

SANTA CRUZ ISLAND: CHARLES DARWIN RESEARCH STATION AND BAY TOUR

RELAX BEFORE MORNING DEPARTURE

...OR EXTEND YOUR TRIP

More privacy?

Rates:

Included:

Not Included:

Family Safari Gallery

Video

Family Safari: FAQ

The Giant Tortoise Reserve

Wildlife at Camp

Lava Tunnels

Tortuga Bay Beach

Surfing at Tortuga

Garrapatero beach

Biking

Puerto Ayora

Lonesome George

Kids Club

Pool

Customise Your Safari

Our Fishing Adventure

Family Bonding Fun

Responsible Fishing

Private Boat

Catch Your Lunch!

Sashimi

Secluded Beach

Family Time

Uninhabited Islands

Bartolome Island

Bartolome Island: Snorkel

North Seymour Island

North Seymour: Snorkel

South Plaza Island

South Plaza Island: Snorkel

Santa Fe Island

Santa Fe Island: Snorkel

More Resources

Highlights

Guest Reviews

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