Galapagos Experience
Galapagos Experience
4.5
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Monday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Tuesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Wednesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Thursday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Friday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Saturday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Sunday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Full view
About
Galapagos Experience specializes in top quality, established and tailor-made travel programs, combining high standard accommodation and personalized service with great natural, historical and cultural destinations. Our portfolio includes Galapagos cruises, diving, jungle tours, highlands and bird watching tours. We are the exclusive representatives of the M/Y Samba Galapagos which is a Tourist Superior Class yacht.
Galapagos Experience
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
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4.5
256 reviews
Excellent
207
Very good
31
Average
10
Poor
2
Terrible
6
Bill C
1 contribution
Jan 2023
We did a 7 day cruise in Galapagos, and booked through
Galapagos Experience. We dealt with Silvia from the agency. She was fantastic to deal with; organized and very quick to arrange our trip (we booked last-minute, so the speed was much appreciated).
Within a few hours of knocking on her door, we were fully booked and ready to rumble (we interacted through WhatsApp as we explored Quito). I'd recommend booking through Galapagos Experience to anyone looking to explore the islands.
The actual cruise was fantastic too :)
Galapagos Experience. We dealt with Silvia from the agency. She was fantastic to deal with; organized and very quick to arrange our trip (we booked last-minute, so the speed was much appreciated).
Within a few hours of knocking on her door, we were fully booked and ready to rumble (we interacted through WhatsApp as we explored Quito). I'd recommend booking through Galapagos Experience to anyone looking to explore the islands.
The actual cruise was fantastic too :)
Written January 22, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Ethan E
Saint Louis, MO44 contributions
May 2022
Everything about our cruise booked with Galapagos Experience was fantastic. We were on the Samba for a week. The booking process was very easy. We only booked a week in advance, but Silvia was extremely responsive and made the process very smooth.
The cruise itself was incredible. So many activities every day, but still plenty of time to relax. We got to snorkel with penguins, sea lions, sea turtles, dolphins, sharks and lots of other sealife. We spotted hundreds of dolphins as well as a blue whale.
Our guide Harry, Captain Juan and the rest of the crew were all great. The food was very good. Our cabin was comfortable and just big enough.
I had high expectations for our week on the Samba, and this trip exceeded them. I highly recommend Galapagos Experience and the Samba.
The cruise itself was incredible. So many activities every day, but still plenty of time to relax. We got to snorkel with penguins, sea lions, sea turtles, dolphins, sharks and lots of other sealife. We spotted hundreds of dolphins as well as a blue whale.
Our guide Harry, Captain Juan and the rest of the crew were all great. The food was very good. Our cabin was comfortable and just big enough.
I had high expectations for our week on the Samba, and this trip exceeded them. I highly recommend Galapagos Experience and the Samba.
Written June 7, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Paul F
Kelowna, Canada1 contribution
Dec 2022 • Solo
Sylvia was excellent at organising the logistics for my Galápagos cruise in the last minute including flights and even taxis to bring me to the airport. She answered all my questions. The cruise itself was awesome. The Millenium is a very comfortable catamaran for up to 16 guests. It’s older and slower than some of the boats available but very well maintained and much of the motoring is done at night so the speed had little impact on the trip. Also the Park dictates the schedule and amount of time you can spend at most sites anyway.
Written December 22, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
DavidnMelanie
8 contributions
Feb 2020
We booked a combo Galapagos-Machu Pichu trip through Max at Ideal South America, 15 days. I was concerned we had bitten off more than we could chew, but each and every day from the boat to the sites to the hotels and the guides was excellent and seamless. Hotels in Quito, Sacred Valley, Cuzco, and Lima were well located, usually unique in some way, and each exceeded what I would have chosen had I booked independently. Guides and drivers were unfailingly professional and prepared to adapt itineraries upon suggestion and their own local knowledge. Everything was timely, nothing was uncomfortably rigid or carved in stone. It was also clear that local tour companies answered to Ideal and were concerned to preserve and promote that relationship.
The Galapagos is simply not to be missed and the Catamaran Cormorant with 15 passengers and 11 crew was perfect both at sea and for accessing the islands. Kayaks, wet suits (not really necessary) and a very knowledgeable local guide ensured nary an idle moment. Not to mention wifi (included) on board.
Thanks Max and Ideal. See you next time.
David Cunningham / Melanie Watson
The Galapagos is simply not to be missed and the Catamaran Cormorant with 15 passengers and 11 crew was perfect both at sea and for accessing the islands. Kayaks, wet suits (not really necessary) and a very knowledgeable local guide ensured nary an idle moment. Not to mention wifi (included) on board.
Thanks Max and Ideal. See you next time.
David Cunningham / Melanie Watson
Written March 3, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Viola M
Vienna, VA1 contribution
Apr 2022
Silvia form Galapagos Experiences did a great job putting together whole package based on my request for two weeks in Ecuador (Quito & Galapagos islands). She provided nice hotels, an enjoyable ship with 10-day itinerary around the islands & knowledgeable tour guides. All the connections were perfect, and I was able to enjoy nature, see and learn about many types of birds, tortoises, see lions, and other animals. Everyone was very nice and friendly.
Written May 30, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
L Rowland
1 contribution
Apr 2022
Silvia is experienced, kind, thorough, and was easy to reach whenever we needed her. Traveling with 3 kids out of the country for the first time was a big deal for us, but she helped us with every step of the way, planning every detail and making sure all was satisfactory. I would recommend her to anyone traveling to Ecuador-- she will take good care of you and help with planning (before and during the trip). I appreciated how easy she was to reach, at all times, with questions.
Written June 25, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
sandrine j
New York City, NY154 contributions
Dec 2019
Cruise November 26-December 3 2019
Out time on The Beagle will remain one of the best experiences of our lives. We loved every moment of it.
Diego our guide met us at the airport as planned and his enthusiasm was really contagious from the start as he got the know the passengers.
We were then met by the crew waiting for us onboard, cabins were ready as well as very welcomed refreshments.
We were lucky that we were only 8 passengers (for 6 crew members) as it allowed extra personal space; also the diversity and openness of our group made it a very enjoyable experience.
The days go very fast with lots of activities: walk on land, snorkeling, kayaking, panga ride, sunset walk on land. The guide was very thorough to explain the day ahead, and every night as we closed each day we would reflect on the activities and highlights of the day...
As we return onboard each time refreshments are ready, and the crew was eager to hear about our experiences.
The food was plenty and diverse for every single meal.
Overall an unforgettable experience! the fact that The Beagle is a small-capacity boat was a plus for us as it enabled us to embark/disembark a lot quicker than larger boats, and therefore have more time to enjoy the activities.
Out time on The Beagle will remain one of the best experiences of our lives. We loved every moment of it.
Diego our guide met us at the airport as planned and his enthusiasm was really contagious from the start as he got the know the passengers.
We were then met by the crew waiting for us onboard, cabins were ready as well as very welcomed refreshments.
We were lucky that we were only 8 passengers (for 6 crew members) as it allowed extra personal space; also the diversity and openness of our group made it a very enjoyable experience.
The days go very fast with lots of activities: walk on land, snorkeling, kayaking, panga ride, sunset walk on land. The guide was very thorough to explain the day ahead, and every night as we closed each day we would reflect on the activities and highlights of the day...
As we return onboard each time refreshments are ready, and the crew was eager to hear about our experiences.
The food was plenty and diverse for every single meal.
Overall an unforgettable experience! the fact that The Beagle is a small-capacity boat was a plus for us as it enabled us to embark/disembark a lot quicker than larger boats, and therefore have more time to enjoy the activities.
Written January 6, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Joan V
1 contribution
Oct 2022
I highly recommend Galapagos Experience. Very well organized trips and very helpful. Silvia stays always in contact also during the trip for questions.
Very good planning in the trip with hotels, airlines/boats, departures/arrivals. Also clear prices and a good itinerary. And also good hotels and well situated. The day trips or activities on the locations were also good organized.
The guides I met in every place were very kind and helpful and also professional organized and did all a good job. They have a lot of knowledge about the area and also the activities what to expect, clothing/weather or anything you have to know. I had great time in Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands!
Very good planning in the trip with hotels, airlines/boats, departures/arrivals. Also clear prices and a good itinerary. And also good hotels and well situated. The day trips or activities on the locations were also good organized.
The guides I met in every place were very kind and helpful and also professional organized and did all a good job. They have a lot of knowledge about the area and also the activities what to expect, clothing/weather or anything you have to know. I had great time in Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands!
Written November 6, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
allykken
4 contributions
Sep 2021
Max Levitt with Ideal South America put together an amazing trip for my wife and I and our two friends. We had originally planned the trip for almost two years ago, but the pandemic happened. Max helped restructure our trip, get refunds where necessary. Since a lot of our trip was cancelled because of the pandemic, Max organized a private guide and driver and a tour from Quito down the avenue of volcanoes to Cuenca. We then flew to the Galapagos for an amazing time there. The trip was amazing and Max made it all happen with every detail taken care of. We can't say enough for Max and Ideal South America Travel
Written October 7, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Lenka
3 contributions
Aug 2022 • Couples
We were in contact with several different travel agencies before deciding for the Galapagos Experience, and they were by far the best! GE’s CEO Silvia was unbelievably helpful and thorough, and really tried to find the best trip for us. She was able to find us a place on Samba Cruise - which was amazing - and was always available to answer all our questions. She was also very patient and professional when there were some trouble with our bank. Highly recommended!
Written August 25, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Lisa C
Athens, GA5 contributions
Hi! I realize you went almost 10 years ago, but we're wondering if the Gate 1 or anyone provided your snorkel gear or if you needed to bring your own? We are going in a few weeks and trying to figure how to pack. Thank you!
Joan V
1 contribution
The daytrips and tours I did snorkelgear was included also wetsuits. You can rent snorkelgear and wetsuits everywhere on the islands when you need some. For about $5 a day for a suit and $5 for gear. Also you can bring your own.
We are wondering how difficult the “family bridges” 8 day trip to Galapagos. My parents are in their mid 70’s.
Avaya109
Barcelona, Spain297 contributions
The hikes were not strenuous. There was a couple in their late 70s in our group and they did fine. Everyone helps each other out with the landings. And because there are almost always two zodiaks, if you feel for whatever reason you cannot or do not want to do the walk, they can take you back to the boat.
Maunzerli01
Zurich, Switzerland92 contributions
Ueber welches Büro hast du die Reise Galapagos? Waren vor vielen Jahren schonmal dort und würden gerne ein weiteres Mal gehen. Jedoch finde ich das Reisebüro von damals nicht mehr.
Ich suche eine schöne Jacht mit nicht mehr als 16 Personen an Bord für 7 Tage.
Vielleicht kannst du mir ja gute Infos geben.
Danke erst Mal.
Gruss
Marianne
OyJoiOy
6 contributions
Has anyone ever tried G Adventures? What has been your experience with them?
I'm also looking at International Expeditions.
Thanks in advance for any input.
Joan G
Dungannon, UK3 contributions
Hi we are doing family land galapogos trip in early july. Can anyone advise on weather conditions at this time and will we see much marine life as we are only visiting two islands San cristobal and santa cruz. Any useful tips would be appreciated.
We are thinking of booking MV Origin with Ecoventura- are they reputable and any concerns we should know
cindypFleetwood
Thornton Cleveleys, UK59 contributions
How easy would this trip be for someone with limited mobility?
Karen C
Silverhill, AL46 contributions
I don't think this would be a good trip for someone with limited mobility. Let me put it this way; after this trip, both my knees suffered "torn meniscus". I am just now having surgery on one of them and hopefully the other one soon.
You have to get into a dinghy to go ashore - several times a day and there are wet and dry landings. Most of the dry landings were slippery and the wet landings meant you were stepping into water to walk onto the beach area.
On some of the islands you are "literally" walking on top of huge / uneven rocks.
Hope this helps...
suecob
bingley18 contributions
Hi, suecob. What would you like to know about this attraction?
where the cabins on the beagle ok love the look of the boat and itinery just need to check cabins reasonably comfy
Ed R
Vancouver, Canada27 contributions
I was wondering how the Galapagos National Park admission fee and Galapagos Tourist Card get handled. We didn't receive anything about these with our registration package and other travelers to the galapagos have talked about paying these at the airport. Do you just show your celebrity tour booking at the airport? (We're going on the xploration but assume the process is the same).
Roxsrgreat
Ascot, UK154 contributions
Hi EdR
The Galapagos Park Fee ($100) is paid for upon arrival in Galapagos as is the transit control card ($10). You fill in the latter form on the plane and hand over the form and the money for both after your passport is checked at the airport in San Cristobal or elsewhere. The payment is separate from any tour bookings and is well worth it to preserve a wonderful and unique place.
Mary-Joan J
Bali, Indonesia3 contributions
Hi, we have booked a 7days cruise on the Celebrity Xperience. Can somebody help me with information for a reliable agency where I can book my flights Quito-Baltra-Quito and possibly also our pre and post hotel ? Thanks!
Funsandra
Port Coquitlam, Canada14 contributions
My advice would be to go on either Priceline or Google flights, enter your departure info and the area you are coming to (Quito? Baltra?) and see how that works. Galapagos is wonderful, enjoy!