The 5 Day Classic Isabela Island Tour offers an exciting opportunity for nature enthusiasts to explore the Galapagos Islands. Priced at $1,403 per person, the tour provides accommodations, transportation, and meals, along with a knowledgeable bilingual guide. While participants can expect to witness breathtaking landscapes and engage in a variety of activities, there are additional costs to consider, such as park entrance fees and equipment rentals. With mixed reviews highlighting both excellent service and potential hidden expenses, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure for those seeking to enjoy the wonders of the Galapagos ecosystem. But what makes this tour stand out, and how can travelers ensure they get the most out of their experience?
This experience made our list of the 6 Best Tours In Isabela.
About Your Stay
- This 5-day tour offers a classic exploration of Isabela Island in the Galapagos, with accommodations, transportation, and select meals included.
- The average rating of the tour is 3.5 out of 5 stars based on 6 reviews.
- Additional costs include the Galapagos National Park entrance fee, Migratory Control Card, and optional equipment rentals.
- The tour is not recommended for individuals with serious medical conditions or back problems.
- Itinerary flexibility is necessary due to potential weather, regulatory, or unforeseen changes during the tour.
Tour Overview
The 5 Day Classic Isabela Island Tour is a comprehensive package that allows visitors to explore the unique landscapes and wildlife of Isabela, one of the larger islands in the Galapagos archipelago.
Priced from $1,403 per person (non-refundable), the tour has received an average rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars based on 6 reviews.
The tour includes accommodations, transportation, a local naturalist guide, and select meals.
Travelers should be aware of additional costs, such as the Galapagos National Park entrance fee, Migratory Control Card, and optional equipment rentals.
The tour operator reserves the right to modify the itinerary due to weather, regulations, or unforeseen circumstances.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Isabela.
Included Services
As part of the 5 Day Classic Isabela Island Tour package, travelers can expect to receive several inclusive services. These include accommodation, airport transfers, transportation between islands, an experienced naturalist guide, and select meals. The tour offers a range of lodging options, from single to triple occupancy. Pickup and drop-off at Baltra Airport, as well as transportation to the Itabaca Channel, are also covered. Throughout the tour, a bilingual guide provides insights and leads activities. Meals include 4 breakfasts and 4 lunches, ensuring participants are fueled for their adventures.
| Included Services | Details |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | Single, double, or triple occupancy |
| Airport Transfers | Pickup and drop-off at Baltra Airport |
| Transportation | Baltra Airport to Itabaca Channel, between islands |
| Guide | Local naturalist, English and Spanish speaking |
| Meals | 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches |
Excluded Costs
Besides the inclusive services, travelers should be aware of several additional costs not covered in the 5 Day Classic Isabela Island Tour.
Flights from mainland Ecuador to the Galapagos Islands are excluded, costing around $500 per person. The Galapagos National Park entrance fee of $100 per person and the Migratory Control Card at $20 per person must be paid in cash.
The Isabela dock fee of $10 per person is also an extra charge. Rental of optional equipment like wetsuits and rain boots aren’t included and cost $5 and $2 per person per day, respectively.
Personal travel and health insurance are also the responsibility of the traveler. Tips for guides aren’t included in the tour price.
Health and Travel Recommendations
Travelers should be aware of a few important health and travel recommendations for the 5 Day Classic Isabela Island Tour.
The tour isn’t recommended for those with serious medical conditions or back problems. Visitors should book flights with early arrival and late departure times to maximize activities.
It’s essential to avoid drinking tap water and follow food safety precautions. Travelers should pack small bags, as public transportation has limited space.
Any dietary restrictions should be communicated at booking, as vegetarian options are available.
Luggage and Dietary Needs
Travelers are advised to bring small bags, as public transportation throughout the Isabela Island tour has limited space. Bulky luggage will be difficult to manage.
It’s recommended to pack light and only bring essentials. Plus, visitors should inform the tour operator of any dietary restrictions at the time of booking.
Vegetarian options are available, but other special requests can be accommodated as well. This ensures the meals provided during the tour meet individual needs.
Following these guidelines will help make the Isabela Island experience more comfortable and enjoyable for all participants.
Itinerary Flexibility
Flexibility is essential for the 5 Day Classic Isabela Island Tour, as the operator reserves the right to modify the itinerary due to factors like weather conditions, National Park regulations, or unforeseen circumstances.
This means the actual schedule provided upon arrival may differ from the initial plan. The guide is present throughout the tour, except during boat transfers, to ensure a smooth experience despite any changes.
Participants should remain adaptable and open to the operator’s need to adjust the itinerary as necessary to provide the best possible Galapagos adventure.
Customer Feedback
Traveler reviews of the 5 Day Classic Isabela Island Tour paint a mixed picture, with both positive and negative feedback.
Customers praised the efficient service, excellent food, and good hotel accommodations.
However, some noted hidden costs, a lack of clear itinerary, a disappointing island hopping experience, uncomfortable boat rides, and poor communication regarding tour arrangements.
The key takeaways from customer feedback are:
- Efficient service and excellent food
- Unclear itinerary and hidden costs
- Disappointing island hopping experience
- Uncomfortable boat rides
- Poor communication on tour arrangements
Questions About Your Stay
Can I Book This Tour for a Group of 4 or More?
The tour allows for group bookings. Groups of 4 or more can book this tour, though additional fees may apply for larger parties. It’s best to check with the tour operator for specific group pricing and availability.
How Much Is the Single Supplement for Solo Travelers?
The single supplement for solo travelers on this tour is not explicitly stated in the information provided. Travelers booking alone should contact the tour operator directly to inquire about any additional fees for single occupancy.
Does the Tour Include a Visit to the Flamingo Lagoon?
The tour does not explicitly include a visit to the flamingo lagoon. However, the itinerary is flexible and can be adapted based on weather and National Park regulations, so a flamingo lagoon visit may be possible, depending on the group’s interests and guide recommendations.
Can I Extend the Tour to Include Other Galapagos Islands?
The tour can be extended to include other Galapagos islands, but this would require booking a separate tour or adding extra days to the itinerary. Additional costs and arrangements would need to be discussed with the tour operator.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?
The cancellation policy is non-refundable. Guests who cancel their 5 Day Isabela Island Tour reservation will forfeit the full tour price. No refunds are provided for any reason, so it’s important to consider this policy when booking.
Final Verdict On This Stay
The 5 Day Classic Isabela Island Tour offers an immersive Galapagos experience, though additional costs must be considered. Participants can expect well-organized accommodations, transportation, and guided activities. However, reviews suggest the tour may not suit all travelers, with concerns about hidden expenses. Ultimately, the tour provides a chance to explore Isabela Island’s natural wonders, but prospective guests should carefully evaluate their needs and budget.