Adventure Associates has been running tours to the Galapagos for 40 years, and National Geographic Traveler names their "Family Encounters at the Middle of the World" one of the 50 best tours in the world. Designed for all ages, this tour includes time in Quito, the capitol of Ecuador, and a three-night cruise through the Amazon Rainforest on the Napo River, a tributary of the Amazon. Galapagos accommodations are at the Finchbay Hotel, a secluded, motor vehicle-free beachfront property on Isla Santa Cruz. You'll enjoy land and sea excursions to the other islands from this home base.
Adventure Associates
877-500-9402
Adventure-associates.com
National Geographic Expeditions promises when you travel with them "you'll travel not as an observer but as an active participant." Their Galapagos Family Odyssey delivers on this promise with tide pooling on Isla Santiago, a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station on Isla Santa Cruz, cave exploration on Isla Isabela, snorkeling among sea lions at Isla Floreana and numerous opportunities to bird watch and kayak. Accommodations are on a National Geographic cruise ship equipped with a fitness center, swimming pool, lounge and bar, spa and sauna and Internet access.
National Geographic Expeditions
888-966-8687
nationalgeographicexpeditions.com
Wildland Adventures is a U.S.-based company providing eco-tours for 20 years. They have been recognized by National Geographic Traveler Magazine for providing excellent trips. Wildland offers three different Galapagos Family Adventures. The Galapagos Christmas Cruise, aboard a privately chartered luxury yacht, allows participants to see the colorful festivities of Christmas on the Galapagos. Galapagos Adventure by Land is for families who would prefer to stay in hotels on the islands and spend more time on the beaches and on land than on the water. Galapagos Family Adventure is the company's signature trip, touring the islands and staying on board the private yacht. All three vacations include educational activities for children, about wildlife and evolution, hiking, snorkeling and local culture.
Wildland Adventures
800-345-4453
wildland.com
The Galapagos for Families is the Galapagos family trip run by Smithsonian Journeys every July. Accommodations are on the National Geographic Islander, a luxury cruise ship with Internet access, a swimming pool, fitness center, library and bar and lounge. Kayaking, snorkeling, hiking, island hopping and a stroll through the historic port Puerto Villamil are all included. See blue-footed boobies, sea iguanas and sea lions. A Smithsonian naturalist and lecturer is the guide on this trip, providing insight and education throughout.
Smithsonian Journeys
877-338-8687
smithsonianjourneys.org
