GALÁPAGOS EXPEDITION
FT. Creator
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 2024
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
HOSTED BY:
CREATOR X Ubuntu
WILDLIFE INTERACTION GUIDANCE
WITH CO-FOUNDER AND UNDERWATER PHOTOGRAPHER: DANA BJARNER
@danabjarner 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.
Her aim is to craft meaningful stories that inspire others to connect with nature and the ocean while motivating them to protect it.
Over the years, she has skillfully incorporated the knowledge acquired during her dancing career into a conscious movement workshop. This workshop focuses on navigating emotions through movement and has proven to help her express herself while creating art underwater.
Her work in marine conservation has also enabled her to learn from marine biologists and photographers, equipping her with the skills to have respectful underwater encounters with various species.
One of her personal goals while hosting these expeditions is to assist people in achieving the best possible interactions with wildlife by helping them become acutely aware of their bodies and movements underwater, and showing them how to approach wildlife in the most respectful manner.
Freediving & Exploration Spots
This expedition will be centered around exploration! While we won't have any formal freediving training or workshops, don't worry – you'll still get plenty of chances to freedive! Whether you're chilling with turtles and playing with sea lions in shallow waters or some deep diving to find hammerhead sharks at Kicker Rock, the adventure never stops.
We do NOT require a Freediving certification for you to attend, however, to fully embrace the experience, we highly recommend having at least a level 1 freediver certification or having completed a freediving class before the trip. This will ensure you make the most of every moment during 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 360
Latitud: 1°22′00″S
Longitud: 89°41′00″O
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, seagulls, gannets, marine iguanas, and many more
Spots we will visit:
Leon Dormido (Snorkel)
Cerro Brujo (Boat Ride)
Bahia Sardina (Wet landing - Beach walk)
Punta Pitt (Boat Ride)
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 Galapaguéra
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
WITH PROYECTO SUCRE
We intend to always leave a piece of us in the communities of the places we visit.
Together we have the “Proyecto Sucre” Foundation, a project that focuses on working with local communities, by guiding them into a more sustainable way of living in harmony with the ecosystems they so much depend on as their main source of income.
This way, they will also become the protectors of these ecosystems by building solid and long-term foundations through our different pillars:
- Environmental Education
- Sustainable Tourism
- Waste Management
- Restoration of Ecosystems
- Introduction to Sports
- Sustainable Agriculture
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 to take us through different conservation projects in the Galápagos Islands and also teaching us how can we contribute with citizen science during our expedition.
They will also introduce us to their own project by showing us how to monitor and identify marine megafauna using specialized applications, allowing us to collect valuable data on species like whales, dolphins, and sharks.
Data that will later be used by scientists seeking to understand long-term patterns.
YOUR HOSTS
Katjana is a sustainability advocate and photographer.
Growing up on the shores of Curaçao, the sea became her playground and her inspiration. Now, she spends most of her days near or in the ocean, capturing stories of eco-conscious brands and adventurous souls.
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 "BIG FISH" yacht, 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 - SUNDAY, MAY 19TH
- 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)
- Welcome dinner, where we will have the official presentation of the team and guests.
Day 2 - MONDAY, MAY 20TH
- 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.)
Day 3 - TUESDAY, MAY 21ST
- 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 4 - WEDNESDAY, MAY 22ND
- Early morning freediving at Playa la Loberia
- In the evening hike to El Junco Crater
DAY 5 - THURSDAY, MAY 23RD
- Freediving morning 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.)
- In the evening conservation activity
- Goodbye Dinner
DAY 6 - FRIDAY, MAY 24TH
- 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.
WHAT TO BRING?
- Cash money: $120 USD for International Guests (Entrance to the PNG $100 USD & Exit from CGREG $20 USD) and $26 for Ecuadorian Citizens (Entrance to the PNG $6 USD & Exit from CGREG $20 USD)
- There is an ATM in town but make sure you have extra cash for gratitudes to the guides or crew during the tours.
- Mosquito repellent (Lots of it!)
- Swimsuit - Rashguard
- Cotton T-shirts - Waterproof/Windbreaker Jacket
- Sports shoes - Water/Rock Proof sandals (extra socks!)
- Something warm to wear after the dive (Sweater and Sweatpants recommended)
- Sunglasses
- Hat for sun protection
- Drybag to keep personal items dry on the boat
- UV 50 sunscreen - Sunburn Cream
- Connectors in Galapagos type A and B 110V
- Allergy Medicine
- Seasickness medication if needed
- Freediving gear is not included but you can rent any piece of gear you need from us. (Wetsuit 2mm to 5 mm, mask, snorkel, fins, etc.)
Price: $3,200 USD
Payment Methods:
Bank Transfer:
- Additional fees may be added depending on your Bank.
important details to note:
- After carefully reading all the information about the expedition and applying for your spot, you'll be redirected to a page where you'll find our Traveler Form link. 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 7 spots within the short timeframe. 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
- Ubuntu Travel Kit
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED?
- Air tickets
- For Ecuadorian Citizens: Entrance to the PNG $6 USD & Exit from CGREG $20 USD
- For International Guests: Entrance to the PNG $100 USD & Exit from CGREG $20 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.
GALÁPAGOS - A FRAGILE PARADISE
BY ANTOINE JANSSENS
One of the richest places in the world for biodiversity, the Galapagos Islands are like nowhere else.
Watch @antoinejans, @rafael_moura and @erickacarrera uncover the unforgettable beauty of this paradise and why it is so necessary to save and protect them.
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. Chelsea Kauai - Ubuntu Bound"
The email will include further steps and a PDF with our payment options. 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 and English
Will I recieve photos and videos from the trip?
Of course! We will have two 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 3-4 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. Please let us know in case you need specific gear.
However, we highly recommend you bring your own, especially fins as we do not offer freediving long fins, only short snorkel fins.
If you bring your own wetsuit, make sure you bring at least 2mm or more, especially if you are sensitive to cold water. Water temperatures can get down to 21.0°C (69F) this time of year.
** 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.