December 4 - 14, 2025
Join us in 11-Day Galapagos Islands - Jane Goodall Collection on
11-Day Galapagos Islands - Jane Goodall Collection
Join us for an unforgettable 11-day adventure through Ecuador from December 4-14, 2025, curated by Pride Adventure Travel.
This incredible journey will take you from the towering peaks of Cotopaxi National Park to the unique wildlife and stunning landscapes of the Galapagos Islands.
Ecuador Unveiled: Adventure, Wildlife & Relaxation
Explore volcanic trails, snorkel with marine life, and immerse yourself in the diverse ecosystems that make Ecuador so magical. Travel with a group of like-minded gay men and enjoy expert-guided tours, comfortable accommodations, and the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. For those looking to extend their trip, we also offer possible pre and post-trip extensions.
Stay connected here for important updates and travel details, and visit our registration page to secure your spot!
TRIP HOST
Chris Smith
Chris is the Chief Adventure Officer at Pride Adventures and has been leading group trips for 25 years. He loves building community and sharing epic journeys, from Southeast Asia to African safaris.
Chris Smith Bio
Hello! I’m Chris, Chief Adventure Officer at Pride Adventures. I’ve been leading group trips for 25 years, starting in Arizona and then moving to California in 2014, where I founded California Gay Adventures in 2017 and, more recently, Pride Adventures. My passion is community building, traveling the world, and sharing outdoor adventures and experiences with others. My favorite journeys include Southeast Asia (Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand) in 2023 with 23 guys, and our most recent trip to Africa, where we visited five countries from South Africa to Zimbabwe—the people and safaris were spectacular. Feel free to reach out anytime at chris@darkslategray-ibis-451317.hostingersite.com.
Trip Itinerary:
December 4-14, 2025
Experience the natural wonders, rich history, and vibrant culture of Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands on this unforgettable journey. This 11-day adventure blends immersive cultural experiences with breathtaking landscapes, unique wildlife encounters, and curated accommodations for a truly memorable experience.
Day 1-2: Quito & Cotopaxi National Park
Arrive in Quito and join the group for a Welcome Dinner to kick off the adventure. Explore Cotopaxi National Park, enjoying breathtaking views of Cotopaxi Volcano and the highland wildlife.
Accommodation: Hotel Mercure (or similar)
Day 3-4: San Cristóbal Island, Galápagos
Fly to San Cristóbal Island and visit the Interpretation Centre and trails at Las Tijeretas. Snorkel at Kicker Rock, home to sharks, rays, sea turtles, and vibrant marine life.
Accommodation: Blue Marlin Hotel (or similar)
Day 5-6: Floreana Island
Explore La Lobería beach, known for its sea lion nursery, and enjoy a sustainable dining experience. Discover the Floreana Highlands, rich in history and wildlife, with optional snorkeling at Black Beach.
Accommodation: Floreana Lava Lodge (or similar)
Day 7-8: Isabela & Santa Cruz Islands
Visit Islote Tintoreras and the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre on Isabela Island. Opt for hiking to Sierra Negra Volcano or snorkeling at Los Túneles before heading to Santa Cruz Island for an evening in Puerto Ayora.
Accommodation: Hotel Cally (Isabela) and Villa Laguna (Santa Cruz) (or similar)
Day 9-10: Papallacta
Return to mainland Ecuador and journey to Papallacta, a serene retreat featuring thermal hot springs. Enjoy birdwatching, hiking, or relaxing in this lush environment before celebrating with a Farewell Dinner.
Accommodation: Hotel Termas Papallacta (or similar)
Day 11: Departure from Papallacta
Group transfers will be arranged to Quito Mariscal Sucre International Airport for departing flights.
Booking Options
Your Ecuador and Galápagos adventure features thoughtfully curated accommodations that bring together comfort, culture, and the natural beauty of South America. From the vibrant energy of Quito and the breathtaking Cotopaxi National Park to the serene lodges of the Galápagos Islands and the thermal retreats of Papallacta, each stay is designed to enhance your experience of Ecuador’s unique landscapes and wildlife. Choose between a shared room option, where we can pair you with another traveler
Shared Room
$4999
Immerse yourself in the camaraderie of shared adventures with a fellow traveler or partner. Enjoy cozy accommodations with twin or shared bedding configurations, perfect for social travelers seeking comfort and connection.
Private Room
$6199
Adventure Activities:
Get ready for an adventure! Below is just a sampling of the exciting activities we’ll be experiencing throughout the trip. Since this journey is divided into two segments, please note that not all activities will be available to every traveler. Be sure to check the full itinerary to see which adventures are included in your selected segment.
Cultural Exploration in Quito
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Ecuador’s capital city. Stroll through the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire its colonial architecture, lively markets, and rich traditions.
Exploring Cotopaxi National Park
Discover the majestic landscapes of Cotopaxi National Park, home to one of the world’s highest active volcanoes. Hike through the Andean highlands, marvel at the volcanic scenery, and encounter unique wildlife along the way.
Snorkeling at Kicker Rock
Dive into an underwater paradise at Kicker Rock, one of the most iconic snorkeling spots in the Galápagos Islands. Swim alongside rays, sharks, sea turtles, and an array of vibrant marine life in crystal-clear waters.
Islote Tintoreras Wildlife Tour
Embark on a journey to Islote Tintoreras, where you’ll encounter marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and white-tip reef sharks. This unique excursion highlights the remarkable diversity of the Galápagos ecosystem.
Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre
Visit the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre on Isabela Island to witness conservation efforts firsthand. Learn about the vital work being done to protect these iconic creatures of the Galápagos.
Papallacta Hot Springs Retreat
Relax and rejuvenate in the tranquil thermal hot springs of Papallacta, surrounded by the stunning Andean mountains. Enjoy a peaceful escape as you soak in natural mineral-rich pools.
Our Tour Company & Guides - G Adventures
Explore Ecuador’s most iconic destinations with the experienced guides of G Adventures. Our journey takes you to the breathtaking landscapes of Cotopaxi and the unique wonders of the Galapagos Islands. With immersive itineraries and small group sizes that bring you closer to the action, this trip is all about connecting with nature and making a positive impact. You in? Let’s explore Ecuador together! Click here to sign up.
Inclusions:
What's Included:
- Accommodations: Comfortable stays in locally owned and operated hotels or lodges (see the itinerary for full details).
- Transportation: Travel by airplane, speedboat, and private/public vehicles, including vans and buses.
- Airport Transfers: Transfers to/from all airports will be coordinated through PRIDE.
- Meals: 10 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 4 dinners included.
- Adventure Activities: Daily tours, hikes, and cultural experiences as outlined in the itinerary.
- Special Experiences: Unique moments like snorkeling at Kicker Rock and soaking in Papallacta’s thermal hot springs.
- Activity/Meal Tips: Basic gratuities for included activities and meals (approximately 10%) are covered.
What's Not Included:
- Flights: International flights to and from Quito.
- Travel Insurance: Emergency medical and repatriation insurance with a minimum of $200,000 coverage is required. Trip cancellation insurance is recommended.
- Optional Activities: Costs for activities not included in the itinerary or listed as optional.
- Meals: Costs for meals not specified in the itinerary, including some lunches and dinners.
- Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, non-tour-related items, and personal purchases.
- Tour Guide Tips: Gratuities for the host and guides are not included. A suggested amount of $10 per day for guides is customary but can be adjusted based on service quality.
Physical Rating, Comfort, and Adventure:
Physical Rating: 2 – Light
This trip is suitable for most fitness levels, featuring light walking, hiking, and outdoor activities. Daily adventures may include exploring city streets, visiting archaeological sites, and hiking scenic trails. Some activities, such as trekking in Cotopaxi National Park or optional hikes on the Galápagos Islands, may involve uneven terrain or higher elevations. Participants should be comfortable walking up to 2-3 miles per day and prepared for snorkeling and swimming experiences
Service Level: Upgraded
Enjoy comfortable, locally owned accommodations that balance quality and charm. In Ecuador, stay in properties like the Hotel Mercure in Quito or Hotel Termas Papallacta, known for its thermal hot springs and serene atmosphere. These handpicked lodgings provide the perfect base for active adventurers, offering warm hospitality and access to unforgettable experiences. While some accommodations may not include luxury amenities, they are designed to immerse you in Ecuador’s natural and cultural beauty.
Travel Style: Active Adventure
This journey is crafted for those who embrace discovery and cultural immersion through dynamic activities. From snorkeling at Kicker Rock to hiking Sierra Negra Volcano and exploring the highlands of Floreana Island, each day offers opportunities for adventure and exploration. This itinerary combines engaging outdoor activities with meaningful cultural experiences, ensuring a well-rounded and exhilarating adventure in Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands.
Important Documents & Links:
JoinCGA.com – California Gay Adventures
Documents containing personal information will be delivered privately to attendees via email and/or text as the trip dates approach. For any questions, please contact chris@prideat.com.
Important Documents & Links:
Trip Documents & Links:
Adventure Updates
We will post our adventure (trip) specific updates here. Bookmark this page and check back. If you have questions, contact us at chris@prideat.com. Thanks!
Updates:
None Posted – Stay Tuned.
Flights:
Travelers are responsible for booking their own international flights, but if you need assistance or have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us!
- Arrivals: Please arrange flights to arrive at Quito Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) no later than December 4th. Group transfers to the starting hotel will be provided for arrivals around the recommended times. Pre-trip accommodations are available upon request.
- Departures: Plan your departure from Quito on December 14th. Afternoon or evening flights are ideal to allow for a relaxed final morning.
Domestic Flights:
Local flights within Ecuador, including to and from the Galápagos Islands, are included in your tour cost. Please ensure we have your passport details at the time of booking to issue tickets.
Baggage Allowance for Domestic Flights:
- Checked Luggage: Maximum 23 kg (50 lbs).
- Carry-On: Maximum 10 kg (22 lbs).
Travel Insurance
We suggest TravelEX Insurance Services – Click here for a quote. Travel insurance is mandatory. You must provide proof of insurance to join the group. The policy should include medical coverage and at least USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We also recommend coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage and personal effects. Most insurance companies require policies to be purchased within 15 day of initial payment of the trip for full coverage/cancellation insurance. Please send proof of travel insurance to chris@prideat.com once you have purchased it, and I will save it within your departure details.
Deposits & Payments
Click here to check out an article on our deposits and payment plan process.
Travel Health
We recommend reviewing the website PassportHealth and review the travel vaccination requirements and suggestions.
Questions? Need Help?
Please email chris@prideat.com with questions. You can also view the full trip dossier here or visit the event page here.
