The Galapagos Islands

Snorkeling in the Galapagos Islands

Duration: 
8 days, June 2 – 9, 2026

Price:
From $5,995 from Quito, Ecuador

Tour Operator:
Orbridge

RESERVE YOUR SPACE

The moment you set foot on this rare earth, you’ll discover that freedom and fearlessness are a way of life on the Galapagos Islands. Whether strolling the islands’ pristine beaches, scanning the cliffs for the magnificent waved albatross, chatting with a friendly sea lion, or snorkeling with sea turtles, you’ll find that the gentle freedom of the Galapagos is contagious.

This will be W&L’s 10th visit to the extraordinary natural environment of the Galapagos Islands. Here on the legendary islands 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, we’ll find the rich abundance of wildlife that so inspired Charles Darwin. Widely considered the world’s most important center for the study of evolution, the Galapagos are home to a unique variety of flora and fauna.

Among the spectacular geology of these rugged volcanic islands, we’ll observe the giant Galapagos tortoises, flocks of frigatebirds and blue-footed boobies, Darwin’s finches, Galapagos penguins, and colonies of marine iguanas and sea lions, along with whales and other fascinating sea life. No other place on earth affords such close access to wildlife, for the animals and birds have never learned to fear humans. As we journey through these islands, we’ll discover one of the last places on Earth where all things live in harmony.

After a visit to Quito, Ecuador, in the high Andes Mountains, our home among the islands will be the motor yacht Isabela II, a versatile 166-foot expedition vessel with 20 spacious cabins comfortably accommodating 40 W&L guests. Designed for active exploration of the Galapagos, the Isabela II can reach places inaccessible to larger ships because of her small size. A staff of resident naturalists will be on hand to point out particularly unusual wildlife behaviors and characteristics so that you may observe, inquire, and react as it unfolds before your eyes. Throughout our voyage, we’ll enjoy abundant opportunities for hiking, snorkeling, and photography. We invite you to discover why the Galapagos has been one of W&L’s favorite destinations.

Traveling With You

Lisa Greer is the Harry E. and Mary Jayne W. Redenbaugh Professor of Earth and Environmental Geoscience. Specializing in coral reef ecosystems, Lisa brings extensive knowledge of these vital habitats and their importance to marine biodiversity.

Robert Humston John Kyle Spencer Director for Environmental Studies and Professor of Biology. With expertise in marine biology, aquatic ecology, and conservation strategies, Robert will share the complexities of aquatic ecosystems.

Lifelong Learning

  • Lifelong Learning
    Washington and Lee University
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    Lexington, VA 24450