GALÁPAGOS EXPEDITION
FT. NATALIE PARRA - KEIKO CONSERVATION
Ready for an unforgettable adventure?
Immerse yourself in the wonders of the Galapagos Islands, connecting with like-minded humans and experiencing some of the most incredible wildlife encounters the islands have to offer!
Be prepared to embrace the unexpected and create memories that will last a lifetime.
What?
Exploring
Freediving
Conservation
Where?
San Cristobal,
Galápagos -
Ecuador
When?
January 13 - 18
2025
Who?
YOU! and 7 other humans
(8 pax)
Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
Latitud: 01°40'N 01°36'S
Longitud: 089°16' & 092°01'W
Located 1,000 km off the coastal region of Ecuador,
Galápagos has 13 large islands and 107 small islets. It's considered a World Heritage Site by UNESCO since 1978 and is the second most volcanically active archipelago on the planet after Hawaii.
The abundance of nutrients is due to the unique condition where three main currents collide within the same area: El Niño, Humboldt, and Cornwell, making the Galápagos a pristine destination for species around the world and where Charles Darwin discovered the theory of evolution.
San Cristobal Island
Latitud: -0.82048935
Longitud: -89.4248179308574
The first island to have received the second voyage of HMS Beagle with Charles Darwin in 1835 and the home of frigate birds, Galápagos tortoises, red-footed gannets, blue-footed booby birds, marine iguanas, sea lions, and more.
The main places to visit include:
- La Loberia
- Playa Mann
- Puerto Chino
- Junco Lagoon
- Tortoise Reserve
DANA BJARNER
WILDLIFE INTERACTION GUIDANCE
Dana is an underwater photographer, freediver, storyteller, conservationist, and former dancer.
In her quest for connection, she constantly seeks creative ways to merge her art with conservation to inspire others to connect with and protect the ocean.
Her experience in marine conservation, coupled with learning from marine biologists and photographers, has honed her skills for respectful underwater encounters.
During the expedition, she will help you achieve meaningful wildlife interactions by becoming more aware of your body and movements underwater and showing you how to approach wildlife in the most respectful manner.
ERICKA CARRERA
FREEDIVING GUIDANCE
Ericka, the founder of @carrerafreedivingschool, is a freediving instructor (AIDA/CMAS) and the current depth record holder in Ecuador with 9 national records.
She has achieved a remarkable depth of -54 meters in Constant Weight Monofin (CWT) and ranked 13th in CNF with a depth of -41 meters at the Roatan World Championships 2023.
During the expedition, Ericka will help you feel comfortable in the water and share her skills, providing you with tools to improve your freediving abilities and ensuring you have an amazing experience during our adventures together
Natalie Parra
KEIKO CONSERVATION CO-FOUNDER
Natalie is a freediver and marine conservationist based in Hawai'i, co-founded Keiko Conservation to create a global platform for marine conservation involvement. Managing Keiko's international chapters, she has also worked with Ric O'Barry's Dolphin Project and Oceanic Preservation Society.
During our expedition, Natalie will share valuable insights about different marine species and ways we can contribute to their conservation efforts.
Freediving & Exploration Spots
This expedition focuses on exploration with opportunities for free diving workshops, but no formal free diving training.
You'll still get plenty of chances to free dive, from swimming with turtles and sea lions in shallow waters to deep diving with hammerhead sharks at Kicker Rock. The adventure never stops!
A freediving certification is NOT required to attend, but we highly recommend having at least a level 1 freediver certification or having completed a freediving class before the trip to fully embrace the experience and make the most of the expedition
**Locations and activities may change depending on the weather and swell conditions.
Española Island
Latitud: 1°22′00″S
Longitud: 89°41′00″O
With more than 4 million years, Española is the oldest Island of the Galápagos archipelago, located at the southern tip of the Galápagos Islands.
Many people come to this Island to watch one of the most mágical events in nature, the albatross mating dance, which can only be seen on this Island between April and December.
But that is not all this Island has to offer, we can confirm, that one of the places we will visit, has the clearest water you have ever seen!!
FULL-DAY BOAT TOUR
Kicker Rock
Latitud: S -3.051275
Longitud: -78.205493
Best known as "Leon Dormido" or "Sleeping Lion" due to the position of the rocks forming a sleeping Sea Lion.
Kicker Rock is probably one of the most popular and biodiverse spots of the Galápagos Islands where you'll have the chance to encounter Scalloped Hammer Head Sharks and other species of Sharks such as Black Tips, Galápagos Sharks, Silky Sharks, and more.
Not only that, but Kicker Rock may also surprise you with a school of Eagle Rays or a huge school of Galápagos Salemas to free dive with.
MORNING BOAT TOUR
Tour 360º
This 360 tour to San Cristóbal Island in the Galapagos consists of going around the island, here you can see frigates, boobies, dolphins, sea lions, sea turtles, hammerhead sharks, white tip reef sharks, seagulls, gannets, marine iguanas, and many more
Spots we will visit:
Leon Dormido (Snorkel)
Cerro Brujo (Boat Ride)
Bahia Sardina (Wet landing - Beach walk - Snorkel)
Punta Pitt (Boat Ride - Bird watching)
Bahia Rosa Blanca (Wet landing - snorkel and walk)
FULL-DAY BOAT TOUR
La Lobería
La Lobería, one of the most exquisite beaches on San Cristobal Island, provides a truly enchanting experience.
The adventure begins with a 900-meter trail, where you'll be captivated by the vibrant landscape and spot marine iguanas basking in the sun.
This trail leads you to a pristine 2.5-kilometer white sandy beach, complete with a natural pool teeming with wildlife.
Here, you can encounter marine turtles, sea lions, and an array of colorful fish, creating a perfect setting for exploration and wildlife interaction.
MORNING TOUR LAND TOUR
El Junco Lagoon & La Galapaguera
As the largest natural freshwater reserve in the Galápagos Archipelago, located inside an extinct volcano crater, this place undoubtedly presents a unique yet spectacular sight.
A short 15-minute hike offers a view of the crater and the frigates bathing in the freshwater lagoon.
Exploring the highlands of the Galápagos Islands is a must, allowing you to not only relish the breathtaking views but also experience the distinct microclimate this area provides.
It's a welcome break from the sun and salty water! :)
On our way to el Junco, we will make a stop at La Galapaguera where you'll have the opportunity to meet the Giant Galápagos Tortoises.
EVENING LAND TOUR
CONSERVATION
Citizen Science in the Galápagos Islands
One of our first activities will be a visit to the Galapagos Science Center, where we will meet with Daniela, founder of @cetacea.galapagos.program
She will guide us through various conservation projects in the Galápagos Islands and teach us how we can contribute to citizen science during our expedition.
Daniela will introduce us to their project on monitoring and identifying marine megafauna using specialized applications. This will allow us to collect valuable data on species such as whales, dolphins, and sharks.
The data we collect will be used by scientists to understand long-term patterns in marine wildlife
THE CREW
WHO IS THIS TRIP FOR?
Do you love the unexpected and spending full days exploring underwater? Stepping out of your comfort zone and connecting with other humans from around the world? If the word in your mind to those questions was YES! THEN THIS IS THE TRIP FOR YOU!
WHO IS THIS TRIP NOT FOR?
If you are looking for some relaxing time at the beach, then this is experience might not be for you. This expedition will be full of underwater activities each day.
Also, if you are afraid of the ocean and not a strong swimmer, you will likely not enjoy this trip either.
ACCOMMODATION
You'll stay at the TONGO REEF HOTEL, 1.6 km from the San Cristobal Airport.
With a great location, Tongo Reef Hotel is close to some of the most popular spots and restaurants in San Cristobal.
It offers comfortable rooms equipped with their own bathrooms, AC, Wi-Fi, and hot water showers. Breakfast is also included.
You will be booked in double rooms. However, if you wish to have your own private room, please let us know in advance so we can sort it out for you for an additional fee.
Also, for this expedition, we will explore the Island aboard the "Tongo Reef" vessel, owned by Diego, Tongo Reef owner.
TENTATIVE ITINERARY
Keep in mind:
- This is a summary of the full schedule we will have on the trip.
- Locations and activities may change depending on the weather and swell conditions.
Day 1 - MONDAY, January 13TH
- Arrival at San Cristobal Island and settling into Tongo Reef Hotel (A tribe member will meet with you in Guayaquil, to assist you with logistics. Then, once you arrive to San Cristobal you will be welcomed by your hosts. In case you come on a different schedule, we will arrange to pick you up at the San Cristobal Airport)
- Visit to the Science Center in the evening
- Welcome dinner, where we will have the official presentation of the team and guests.
Day 2 - TUESDAY, january 14TH
- Freediving tour at Kicker Rock (Possible encounters: Scalloped Hammerhead Sharks, Black Tip Sharks, Galápagos Sharks, Dolphins, School of Jacks, Sea Turtles, Eagle Rays, Sea Lions, etc.)
Day 3 - WEDNESDAY, janaury 15TH
- Early morning freediving at Playa la Loberia
- In the evening hike to El Junco Crater
Day 4 - THURSDAY, janurary 16TH
- Full day Española Island tour: Hike at Punta Cevallos,freediving at Islote Tortuga (Possible encounters: Albatross, Nazca Boobies, Blue Footed Boobies, Dolphins, Golden Rays, Sharks, Marine Iguanas, Sea Lions, etc.)
DAY 5 - FRIDAY, january 17TH
- Full day 360 Tour: Punta Pitt (Boat ride), Bahia Rosa Blanca (wet landing - snorkel and walk), Bahia Sardina (wet landing - beach walk), Cerro Brujo (boat ride), Kicker Rock (freediving).
(Possible encounters: Blue Footed Boobies, Dolphins, Golden Rays, Sharks, Marine Iguanas, Sea Lions, etc.)
- Goodbye Dinner
DAY 6 - SATURDAY, january 18TH
- Depending on your departure flight, you may have some free time in the morning to explore.
- Departure
** Wildlife encounters are not guaranteed. However, be ready to be surprised by the unknown. Galápagos marine life always gives back.
ONLY 8 SPOTS AVAILABLE
Price: $3,200 USD
By clicking here, you'll be re directed to a google form. Make sure you fill it out to complete your application.
IMPORTANT: If you are booking 2 or more spots, please make sure the form is filled separately by each traveler.
Payment Methods:
Bank Transfer:
- Additional fees may be added depending on your Bank.
important details to note:
- Once we receive your completed form, we will be reviewing applications and extending invitations based on who applied first and also curating for appropriate experience level.
- Be on the look out for an email from us in the coming days
- A 50% deposit is required to reserve your spot.
- This expedition is subject to availability. It will proceed if we can fill at least 6 spots. You'll be asked to pay the remaining 50% once we confirm availability. We recommend purchasing flexible fares (date change or refund) for your tickets if you choose to purchase them in advance.
- In the event that we don’t reach the necessary number of participants and have to cancel, you'll receive a full refund of the 50% deposit.
WHAT'S INCLUDED?
- Accommodation 6 days 5 nights + Breakfast
- x2 Dinners (Welcome and Goodbye)
- 3 Boat Tours to Española, Kicker Rock & 360 tour (Freediving and exploring) lunch included.
- 2 Land Tours: La Loberia & El Junco
- Visit to the Galápagos Science Center
- Transportation around the Island
- Professional Photographers (General photo gallery of the trip)
- Safety Diver in all boat tours
- Daily snacks
- Weights for your weight belts
- Editing & Freediving workshops
- Ubuntu Travel Kit
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED?
- Air tickets
- For Ecuadorian Citizens: Exit from CGREG $30 USD Entrance to the PNG $30
- For International Guests: Exit from CGREG $30 USD & Entrance to the PNG $200 USD
- Travel Insurance
- Gratuities/Tips for Guides
- Excess baggage fees
- Unspecified itinerary changes
- Alcoholic beverages
- Personal Medical Expenses
- Professional cameras (we highly recommend bringing your underwater photography gear or GoPros) Drones nor flash strobes will be allowed.
- Freediving Gear (wetsuit, mask, fins, and weight belt) is not included but we have gear available for you to rent.
Your tribe is waiting...
FAQ
How can i book my spot?
1. Hit the "APPLY NOW" button
It will redirect you to a page where you'll find a link to our application form.
2. Click it, fill it out and once you finish, we will automatically receive it.
3. Once we have carefully gone through all forms, we will be reviewing applications and extending invitations based on who applied first and also curating for appropriate experience level.
Be on the look out for an email with the name "Galápagos Expedition Ft. Maysa Santoro- Ubuntu Bound"
The email will include further steps and a PDF with our payment details. To secure your spot, you must make a 50% deposit of the total price.
Once we receive proof of payment, your booking is complete.
Keep in mind, that 15 days before the expedition, the full payment of the balance and all signed documents will be required to be able to attend the expedition.
CAN I BRING MY OWN PROFESSIONAL CAMERA?
Yes, you can. Two of our tribe members will have their professional cameras and will be more than happy to share some tips with you if desired.
**Drones are not allowed nor flash strobes for underwater photography
what languages are we going to be speaking?
Spanish, English & Portuguese
Will I recieve photos and videos from the trip?
Of course! We will have professional photographers with us during the whole trip capturing every moment!
At the end of the trip, we will make sure you receive a link to a digital gallery with the photos WITHIN THE NEXT 4+ WEEKS PRIOR THE EXPEDITION
**Please be aware that photos with wildlife are not guaranteed.
IMPORTANT: We do not offer photo packages for individual guests. You will receive a gallery of photos from the whole trip.
How do i book flights to get to Galápagos?
Galápagos is part of the Ecuadorian Territory, so if you are flying from abroad, you'll have to book a flight to Guayaquil or Quito and then make sure your final destination is SAN CRISTOBAL, GALÁPAGOS, ECUADOR (SCY)
When booking your connection to Guayaquil or Quito, be aware that Galápagos flight schedules are limited. You might have to stay one night in Guayaquil (preferably)
What visa do i need to enter Ecuador?
It depends on Nationality, but the Ecuadorian government will usually allow visitors up to 90 days to stay in Ecuador; However, in the Galapagos, you can only stay up to 60 days per year.
Check the Ecuadorian goverment website for foreign affairs https://www.gob.ec/dpng/tramites/actualizacion-informacion-asociada-credencial-registro-turismo-continente-galapagos
What do I need to enter Galápagos?
Check the FAQ of the following page:
https://www.gobiernogalapagos.gob.ec/ingreso-a-galapagos/
What if I already paid for my spot but i will not be able to attend the expedition?
Please make sure to check our cancellation policies before booking in the link below:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1jPfUSMfEPMAjC9xvenJTpNKnLGI9s3zk/view?usp=share_link
Do I need to be a certified Freediver?
We do NOT require a freediving certification to attend, however, we do recommend that you have previous experience freediving or swimming in open water, for you to have the best experience during this trip.
are we going to be scuba diving?
We are not.
This is a snorkel and freediving-based trip.
However, if you choose to remain in the Islands for a few days after the trip, we highly recommend you check out some scuba diving tours.
Do i need to bring my own gear?
Freediving gear is not included but we have gear available for you to rent: Mask, snorkel and weigh belts.
Please let us know in case you need to rent from us.
We highly recommend you bring your own gear, specially fins and wetsuit.
We will send you a PDF with temperature information and gear recommendations.
** If you have a weight belt feel free to leave the weights at home. We will provide you with the weights
Do i need a covid vaccine certificate or PCR?
COVID vaccine certification or PCR is currently not needed to enter Ecuador or Galápagos.