GALáPAGOS ISLANDS
Snorkel & Freedive Expedition

Are you ready for a wild, raw ocean adventure in the Galápagos Islands? Come and join us for nine incredible days exploring this bucket list, once in a lifetime destination. 

This trip is for all ocean, nature, animal lovers. Being a Liv For The Sea trip, it is marine focused without missing out on the gems of the land. You do not need to be a freediver, but a comfortable swimmer and snorkelling enjoyer! We will be exploring three Galápagos Islands by plane, boat and foot. From snorkelling with marine iguanas, exploring volcanoes and lava caves, walking alongside the ancient Giant Tortoises, swimming with hammerheads, rays, sea lions and more. This hotspot for life will leave you feeling totally in awe.

Liv will be partnering with local Galápagos Naturalist Guide and Divemaster Carolina and Marine Biologist and Divemaster Hannah to bring you the most unforgettable adventure. This trip is a little different from our signature trips in Australia. Although still being very much ocean based, we will ensure that you have every chance of witnessing the most amount of wildlife there is to offer. So rather than being freedive course focused, we want you to feast your eyes and soul on the richness of the Galápagos Islands.

Tick the World Heritage Listed Galápagos Islands off your bucket list and join us on this adventure of an absolute lifetime!

 
 

Why the Galápagos?

In our eyes they are the pinnacle of the Pacific. The jewel of islands for animal lovers. The land is rugged, the creatures are wild, you will feel like a true David Attenborough prodigy! The Galápagos Islands are located 1000 km off the coast of Ecuador, South America. Exposed to three convergent ocean currents, the archipelago is known as a melting pot of marine species.

Due to the extreme isolation, the islands boast an abundance of endemic species (species found nowhere else on earth). Approximately 97% of the reptiles and land mammals and 80% of land birds in Galápagos are endemic! For example the land iguanas, the giant tortoises and many types of finch have evolved – inspiring Charles Darwin and his theory of evolution by natural selection.

For us, there is no other place where we can come face to face with such an array of animals in their natural habitat. To witness the grand effects such marine reserves have on their environment and those living within is a privilege in this day and age. Not to mention the dense forests, volcanic lava tubes and picturesque beaches there is to enjoy.

The best way to explore a destination like this is with a local guide that has the knowledge and connections to maximise your time and amplify your experience. This is exactly what we are offering you!

Galápagos Island - Sea Lions
Galápagos Island - Turtles
Galápagos Island - Hammerhead Sharks
 
Galápagos Island - Blue Footed Booby
Galápagos Island Expedition
 

Is this TRIP for me?

The focus of this expedition is marine! We will have the pleasure of meeting manta rays, hammerhead sharks, penguins, iguanas, turtles, sea lions, eagle rays, dolphins the list doesn’t end!! With plenty of opportunities to experience the island from above during our volcano hike, scenic flight and general day to day activities.

Water immersion days may be based from the shore where a short swim will greet us with sea lions, penguins, turtles, rays and more. Some days will involve a boat excursion to our dive site where we have the freedom to snorkel above, freedive below or scuba dive if you are a certified.

We welcome all walks of life to join us on this unforgettable trip. We just ask that you ensure you are comfortable in the water snorkelling and swimming without assistance. No freediving certification is required to join, just prepare for water adventures galore!

 
 

What’s Included

  • 8 nights of ocean view or quiet central accommodation

  • Breakfast, lunch and snacks each day 

  • All transport upon arrival in the Galápagos Islands - Inter Island scenic flight from Isabela to San Cristobal , ferries and taxis

  • Private dive expeditions by boat to encounter hammerhead sharks, Galápagos sharks, black tip sharks, manta rays, eagle rays, turtles, sea lions, marine iguanas

  • Ample snorkel opportunities at secret locations

  • Land based adventures to active volcanoes, lava tunnels and tortoise breeding centre

  • Lecture from local researcher to inspire our marine science senses!

  • Private Galápagos Naturalist Guide, Marine Biologist and Divemasters

  • Galápagos Transit Control Card (see “Getting There” details)

  • Photographs of your journey


    Not included:

  • International flights to and from Ecuador

  • Domestic flights to and from Galápagos (fly into Baltra and out of  San Cristobal)

  • Galápagos National Park Entrance Fee ($200USD per person payable at airport upon arrival)

  • Travel insurance 

  • Dinners (options ranging between $6-$30 USD)

  • Spending money for souvenirs etc

 
 
Galápagos Island - Sea Lions
 

The Schedule

 

We have curated this schedule for our aquatic lovers, from snorkelers to freedivers and scuba divers, we can do it all! This itinerary includes three different islands, Santa Cruz, Isabela and San Cristobal and we will show you the best of what’s on offer.


If you are considering this trip and would like to see our day by day detailed itinerary, trip details and travel recommendations, please get in touch and we will email this through.

 
 
Galápagos Island - Turtles
Galápagos Island - Sea Lions
Galápagos Island - Sea Lions
 

YOUR GALáPAGOS HOSTS & GUIDES

Carolina

Your Local Naturalist Guide

While growing up between two contrasting worlds, the wild Galápagos Islands and the civilised mainland, Carolina decided to follow her island family lineage, permanently moving to the Galápagos in 2010. Carolina went on to study Environmental Management (including a year studying abroad in Australia), became a divemaster and undertook the rigorous Galápagos National Park Guide Course. Since then, between her own sailing adventures with her partner, she has been working in the tourism industry, guiding on some of the most renowned expedition yachts in the Galápagos Archipelago. More recently, Carolina has been using her invaluable guiding skills and knowledge of the islands to create the ultimate Galápagos Experience for retreat hosts. She specialises in ocean based adventure tourism, where she is able to combine her passions surfing, swimming, sailing, diving, freediving and kayaking.

  • Bachelor of Environmental Management

  • Galápagos National Park Guide Course

  • PADI Divemaster and Galápagos Dive Guide

  • 10+ Years working in the tourism industry in Galápagos Islands

  • Co-creator of Galápagos Nature Connection Retreats (collaboration with Bocas del Toro Surfing) 

Carolina - Local Naturalist Guide
 
Hannah - Divemaster and Marine Biologist

Hannah

Your Host, Divemaster and Marine Biologist

In 2011, at the age of 20, Hannah first ventured off to the Galápagos Islands to complete her studies in Marine Biology and become a divemaster. 13 years later she still calls the Galápagos her second home, basing herself in the Galápagos for months at a time each year to work on research projects, sailing yachts or more recently to co facilitate retreats. In between you will find her doing yachting stints in the Pacific, Mediterranean or Caribbean, teaching high school students in Australia or on surf or dive adventures to some other remote islands.

 

  • Bachelor of Science, Marine Biology Graduate

  • Graduate Diploma of Learning and Teaching (Secondary School)

  • PADI Divemaster

  • 10+ years working on sailing vessels in the Caribbean, Pacific and Mediterranean

  • Co-creator of Galápagos Nature Connection Retreats (collaboration with Bocas del Toro Surfing) 

 

Liv

Your Host and Freedive Instructor/ Water guide

Most of you may know me already, but as a little reminder! I’m your marine adventure sidekick, your freediving mentor, your scuba instructor, surfing lover and all round nature observer. Lord Howe Island and the Ningaloo have been home for me the last 5 years as I transition from high season to high season sharing my passion for their beauty and my love for the sea. I have been teaching freediving since 2018 and hosting expeditions since 2021. The Galápagos is completely new territory for me, but there aren’t that many places that make me as excited as I am for this adventure. I will be by your side experiencing the wonders with you for the first time, its going to be really special. Being new territory to explore doesn’t diminish the fact that you will be in very safe and experienced hands with Caro, Hannah and myself as your guides throughout.

  • Bachelor of Environmental Science, Marine Biology Graduate

  • Coxswain Skipper

  • Molchanovs & PADI Freedive Instructor

  • Open Water Scuba Instructor

  • 10+ Years working in marine tourism throughout Australia

  • Guiding & Hosting Expeditions since 2021

Liv - Freedive Instructor/ Water guide
 
Galápagos Island - Sea Lions
Galápagos Island - Turtles
Galápagos Island - Iguanas
 

GETTING THERE

 

  1. Fly to mainland Ecuador (either Guayaquil GYE or Quito UIO). Arrive on the 26th of April. You will spend one night here on the mainland.

  2. Fly to Baltra (GPS) Galápagos the following morning, 27th April. Airlines: Avianca or Latam.

  3. We will meet you at Baltra airport and make our way as a group to Santa Cruz via short ferry ride.

    More info about the Galápagos Transit Control Card and Galápagos National Park Entry Fee in our brochure. Email if interested.

 
 
Galápagos Island - Blue Footed Booby
Galápagos Island
Galápagos Island
 

accommodation

We are lucky to enough to explore three different islands during this trip, Santa Cruz, Isabela and San Cristobal. We have a few nights at each location and have sourced the most comfortable and best situated accommodation to suit your needs. Hotels vary in comfort, where sometimes location overrides the luxurious aspect but the character makes you smile! All accommodation has breakfast and wifi included. Each room has their own ensuite. The following are the room options.



Shared Triple Room
$4645 USD
If you’re a solo traveller this is a great option. You will be sharing the room with two others, each with your own single bed.


Double Room
$4745 USD
If you are travelling with a partner or friend, the double room is the perfect option to have your own space throughout the trip. If you are booking this room with your other half, you will both need to secure a deposit separately, or one person needs to select 2 x double room.


Private Room
$4945 USD
If you are one that needs your own space, we understand and can offer a private room for the duration of the trip.

Galápagos Island Accommodation
Galápagos Island Accommodation
Galápagos Island Accommodation
 

The PAYment process

 

To secure your spot, we require an initial non-refundable $500 deposit at the time of booking online. One week following this we will send you an invoice for the 2nd deposit of 50% of your trip cost. The remaining is due six months out of trip departure. Please see our cancellation policy and payment plan suggestions via the ‘Book Here’ link below.

Galápagos Islands Expedition

April 27th - May 5th 2025

 
 
 

    • This is a unique trip being land based which allows time to make friends with the locals whilst making the most of the diving opportunities.

    • We have included all the ‘must do’ sites in this expedition including multiple days on boats ( Santa Cruz x 1, Isabela x 2, San Cristóbal x 1 )

    • You will have your freedom to explore independently and time to yourself in the evenings

    • Support multiple local businesses and families within the town rather than spending the entire trip on one expedition ship (often not owned by Galápagos locals)

    • Small Group!! 10 Guests total :)

    • You know you are joining a group with similar interest. We mainly focus on spending time in the water and maximising the skills of the guests. You could get caught on a boat where the guide is teaching a family how not to drown and you just want to go and explore to your potential.

    • Custom made in a way that you will get the best chance for wildlife encounters

    • Our local guide/ host will take you to these secret spots that not all tour operators will go, not touristy

    • Local guide’s passion to show you the Galápagos like a local. Local leverage to talk to operators.

  • Totally get it. So we will add you to the trip facebook group where you can connect with the other guests and align travel times etc.

    We recommend staying at the Airport Hotel at either airport, Guayaquil or Quito. If you prebook your night here they will privately collect you from the airport after you pass through customs and will also drop you back to the airport the next day.

    Someone will meet you on the day you fly to the Galapagos at either Airport, Guayaquil or Quito, to help you check in and hand you your Galapagos Transit Control Card.

    So you will have plenty of guidance all along the way.

    Any questions do not hesitate to get in touch.

  • Think sharks! Hammerheads, Black and White Tip Reef Sharks, Galapagos Sharks.

    Mantra Rays, Eagle Rays, Mobula Rays, Sting Rays, Galápagos Penguins (the only penguins found on the equator), Marine Iguanas, Blue Footed Boobies, Nasca Boobies, Storm Petrels, Galápagos Sealions, Green and Hawksbill Seaturtles, Temperate Corals, Reef Fish

    And on land … Giant Tortoises, Endemic Lava Lizards, Darwin’s famous Finches, Flamingos, Frigate birds, critically endangered little vermilion fly catcher, Galápagos mockingbirds, nesting owls and endemic vegetation.

  • As long as you are comfortable and confident in the ocean without the need for assistance you are more than ready to join us. This is not a freediving focused expedition but a marine focused experience where we welcome all snorkelers, scuba divers and freedivers to join in on the adventure.

  • The expedition will run during the transition between warm and cool seasons. This transition results in dynamic weather and wildlife where terrestrial and marine life are active.

    January - May are known for warm, sunny conditions with less wind and calmer ocean conditions. (June- December is the cool/dry season where seas are choppier due to the Humboldt Current).

  • We recommend you pack light as there is a baggage allowance for the small scenic flight between Isabela and San Cristobal. In saying this, we can organise to have your luggage shipped on the ferry for an extra fee if you are over the allowance.

    · Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, light sunshirt)

    · Small towel/ Sarong

    · Runners or sneakers for hikes

    · Sandals for most boat/day activities

    · Mask and snorkel *

    · Wetsuit *

    · Freedive weight belt (we will arrange weights)*

    · Small backpack or dry bag for day adventures on the boats

    · Freedive fins (we travel with them in our hands and take as hand luggage when flying)

    · Reusable water bottle (you can refill with safe drinking water in all the hotels and on the boats)

    ** Standard wetsuits, masks, snorkels, weightbelts and standard fins can be arranged, but if you have gear that you like, it is recommended you bring your own. Freedive fins can not be found on the islands.

  • Once you have made your online deposit of $500…Celebrate!!! You are in for an adventure!! We will be in contact over the next week, greeting you and asking you for the second deposit. From here we can guide you on booking flights into Ecuador and preparing you so you can sit back and count down the days!

  • Flying through the USA you will need an ESTA visa, this is easily acquired online. You will also need proof of a flight in and out of Ecuador, but no visa is required for Ecuador.

    We will be organising your tourist transit card that is needed to travel in and out of the Galapagos Islands. This will be given to you in person in Ecuador before you board your flight to Baltra, Galapagos.

  • The water temperature in April is around 24°C.

    We recommend packing a 3/2 wetsuit and a top/spring suit for shorter snorkel sessions.

    The air temp can range from 22 - 29 °C.

  • See packing essentials.

    Yes, it is available but you may prefer to bring your own to ensure you have gear that is comfortable. There are no freedive fins for rent on the islands.

    If you need any specific gear, talk to Liv as she may be able to sort you out for the trip.

  • There are a range of dinner options available and the price can vary between $6 -$30USD. This will depend on if you are interested in trying a local dinner plate consisting of fish or chicken, beans, rice and salad or if you would prefer to splurge at a waterfront western restaurant.

  • Yes, the islands are very safe. The archipelago rely on tourism as their main source of income.

  • Yes, every evening you have to yourself. Breakfast and lunch is included in the package and in the evening you are free to have dinner where you choose. We have not included any ‘rest days’ as such as we want to make sure you make the most of your time in the Galápagos!

  • Booking in advance is always recommended to ensure you get the cheapest flights. From Sydney to Galápagos prepare to pay around $2000 USD return.

    Flights from Australia are usually via Los Angeles (USA) or via Santiago (Chile).

  • The travel time from Australia to the Galápagos is around 38 hours as you will have a night on the mainland before you fly to the islands.

    If you are wanting to travel more of South America whilst you are on this side of the world you could also look at hiking Machu Picchu in Peru or visiting the Amazon in the same trip.

  • $200 USD cash is needed to pay the Galápagos National Park Entrance Fee upon arrival in Galápagos

    Some places accept card although you will

    mostly need to pay for dinners in cash. There are ATM’s on the islands although

    it is recommended you bring some cash.

  • Spanish is the local language.

    We will send a list of words! Duo Lingo is great if you wish to practice Spanish before you arrive.

  • No. We couldn’t warrant spending time on a course when there is so much to see and do! Join our Ningaloo or Lord Howe Island expeditions to have a course included with the adventures!

 
 
 

Guest Reviews from trips with Caro & Hannah

 

“I had the great pleasure to join one of the surf, yoga and nature retreat organised by Caro and Hannah in partnership with Michelle from Bocas del Toro Surfing It was one of the best decision I had done in a while! Everything was so thoughtful and very smooth: from the choice of surfboards, the hotel location, food, surf briefing, nature discoveries (snorkel, ocean dives and endemic species of Galapagos…) The trip was the perfect mix of adventure, (land and sea!) fun and spoil. Caro, our Galapagos naturalist guide, a true local to the island, was a treasure of knowledge on the wildlife we came across. She was always eager to answer our questions. It really made me appreciative of the beautiful nature and creatures of San Cristobal and how important it needs to be protected. You could see she deeply cares about the wildlife. Hannah was the most lovely host, surf sister and dive master. She always tended to all our needs and made the trip seamless. As a dive master she was also really professional and reassuring during our day of ocean dives at Kicker rock as most of us needed a refresher at first…before encountering hammer head sharks, epic!” - Melodie Chardon (guest from August 2023 Surf/ Nature Connection Retreat with Bocas del Toro Surfing )

“Happiest week in many many moons. Went to Bocas del Toro’s Retreat in Galapagos in collaboration with Carolina Pesantez and Hannah Pike (as naturalist guide and dive master respectively and as hosts) and had the most wonderful time. The hosts are knowledgeable, prepared, kind and fun. I felt safe and taken care of and among friends.” -Maddalena (Guest fromMay 2024 Bocas del Toro Surfing Nature Connection Collaboration Retreat)

“Our family did the Galapagos surf trip in May 2023 - we loved it. Michelle and the girls made us all feel comfortable in the water, even if our surf levels were different. We also had so much fun out of the water. Carolina showed off her island like only a local could. We asked for an extension package to see more of the Galápagos Islands and it’s animals- highly recommend! Carolina gave us several options and supported us throughout the trip. It was a trip of a lifetime!” - Annica

“If the Galapagos Surf Nature Connection Retreat sounds like something you might be interested in but you are on the fence , just do it! A perfect week of surfing, diving and exploring the incredible wildlife Galapagos has to offer. Our group became like family in the end, and the hosts -Head Surf Coach Michelle , Naturalist Guide Carolina and Dive Master Hannah did such an amazing job coordinating everything and using their local knowledge to make our time there as enjoyable as possible. Such a unique trip with memories that I’ll cherish the rest of my life!” - Marty (May 2024 Bocas del Toro Surfing Collaboration Retreat )

“Simply a must do! A visit to the Galapagos is a bucket list item for so many people for a good reason. Having travelled plenty over the years I’ve had the experience of places living up to and not quite matching expectations. This was above and beyond, it felt as raw, beautiful and powerful as if it was my own personal David Attenborough documentary. Having never been on an organised retreat I was lucky enough to join the Surf/Nature Connection Retreat hosted by Hannah (Dive Master ), Michelle (Head Surf Coach) and Carolina (Galapagos Naturalist Guide) in May 2024. The week saw us diving with Hammerhead Sharks, snorkelling with sealions, surfing unreal waves and soaking up the culture of this unique part of the world (not to mention the tortoises, boobies, rays and iguanas) . The week was balanced in a way that felt very action packed without being rushed, and the people that come are ocean frothing people that I can call friends. Having the local knowledge that Carolina and Hannah provide allowed us to not only see these wild places but also understand more about their history and significance. It’s rare to come away from an experience without notes, I just left wanting more!” - Bryce (Guest from May 2024 Bocas del Toro Surfing Nature Connection Collaboration Retreat)

“The whole retreat was 5 stars from start to finish. Being with Michelle, Hannah and Caro felt like hanging with long time friends. Lots of laughs and carefree fun. Their knowledge of surfing and the ocean life was so valuable. I would highly recommend this retreat to any level surfer or adventurer. Thank you again for all the wonderful memories. I can’t wait for our paths to cross on the next adventure.” - Mary