- Email address verified
- Email address verified
About this trip
Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime as we explore the stunning landscapes of Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands! We’ll start in vibrant Quito, where colonial charm, bustling plazas, and sweeping views from the Teleférico set the stage — along with a delicious intro to Ecuador’s famous cacao.
Then the real magic begins. For 5 days and 4 nights, we’ll cruise the Galápagos Islands aboard our private catamaran, reserved exclusively for our Chicas Abroad group. With a dedicated crew and our own naturalist guide, we’ll enjoy expert insights, personalized service, and unforgettable island-hopping.
Think: walking ancient lava fields, spotting giant tortoises, snorkeling with sea lions, penguins, and colorful fish — all from the comfort of our floating home. We’ll hike volcanic beaches, wander through mangroves and cactus forests, visit hidden flamingo lagoons, and float through emerald coves where sea turtles and reef sharks glide beneath us.
And best of all? You’ll be sharing it all with an incredible group of women — building connections, sharing laughs, and making memories that last a lifetime. This isn’t just a trip. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime journey of discovery, wonder, and joy. Let’s go!
Activity Level - Easy to Moderate
This trip is best suited for women who are comfortable with light to moderate activity. Most days include walking on uneven terrain, short hikes, and optional snorkeling or swimming. You don’t need to be a hardcore athlete — just ready for adventure, a little bit of movement, and plenty of time outdoors soaking up the incredible scenery!
Weather
In December, Quito enjoys mild spring-like weather, with daytime temperatures typically in the mid-60s to low 70s °F (around 18–22°C). Evenings can be cooler, especially because of the city’s high elevation, so it's smart to pack layers. Light rain showers are possible, but they usually don’t last long.
The Galápagos Islands in December are warm and starting their "hot season." Expect plenty of sunshine, blue skies, and daytime temperatures in the upper 70s to mid-80s °F (around 25–29°C). The ocean begins warming up too, making it a great time for snorkeling. Occasional brief showers are common but usually come and go quickly, keeping everything lush and vibrant.
Money & Tipping
All the excursions listed in the itinerary are included. Bring cash/credit cards for purchasing souvenirs, additional snacks/meals, alcoholic drinks, extra activities, and other items. You can either order New Zealand dollars from your bank at home or use an ATM on arrival in Aukland to get some cash. Exchanging USD to NZD at the airport or at a bank in New Zealand is not always easy and doesn't give the best exchange rates.
All gratuities are included in your adventure, with the exception of tips for your Chicas Abroad Tour Leader. While tipping your Tour Leader is entirely optional, it’s a meaningful way to show appreciation for the care, energy, and behind-the-scenes magic they bring to your trip.
If you’ve had an exceptional experience, a typical gratuity for a trip of this length ranges from $250–$350. In cases where more than one Tour Leader is present, you’re welcome to give your tip to one of them—they’ll ensure it’s shared among the team.
What’s included
- Lodging2 nights in a historic Quito hotel and 4 nights on private, first-class catamaran
- Ground TransportationAirport transfers will be included as well as any driving in Quito
- Domestic FlightsFlights between Quito and the Galapagos will be included in the price of the trip
- Tips for Local GuidesGenerous tips are provided for all LOCAL guides, drivers, and hosts. Tips for the Chicas Abroad tour leader are optional and at your discretion.
- MealsMeals as indicated in the itinerary
- ExcursionsAll activities listed in the itinerary are included
- Chicas Abroad SwagCommemorative Chicas Abroad swag for you to enjoy during and after the trip
- Lifelong MemoriesFreedom to enjoy your vacation and mindlessly wander, as well as make lifelong memories and new friends!
What’s not included
- FlightsArrive in Quito Dec 1st at any time and depart Quito on December 7th (exact time TBD)
- Travel InsuranceTravel insurance is highly recommend to cover any unforeseen events. Chicas Abroad will provide you with a link to our recommended carrier upon booking, but you may choose any carrier.
- Alcoholic BeveragesAlcoholic drinks are at your own expense
- Chicas Abroad Leader TipIf you’ve had an exceptional experience, a typical gratuity for a trip of this length ranges from $250–$350.
Available Packages
Save $500 if you book by July 31, 2025!
The price includes the lodging, meals, ground transportation, flights between Quito and the Galapagos Islands, and excursions listed in the itinerary.
We have set up a payment plan that includes a $1000 deposit at booking, then 14 monthly payments of $500 (Aug 2025-Sep 2026). We can adjust the payment plan however you would like, but a minimum of $4000 must be paid by May 1, 2026 (this is when we must pay the boat deposit) and the remaining $2800 must be received by September 1, 2026. Please contact us if you'd like a custom payment plan.
Since this adventure includes a private catamaran, there are special terms and conditions as follows:
- Non-refundable deposit of $1000 due at booking (deposit may be transferred to another Chicas Abroad trip if you notify us of cancellation prior to May 1, 2026).
- We must have a minimum of 10 guests confirmed for this trip by May 1, 2026 to secure our booking; if the minimum number is not met, guests will receive a full refund
- Refund policy for guest cancellation:
- Cancellation prior to May 1, 2026 = 100% refund minus the $1000 deposit
- Cancellation between May 1, 2026 to September 1, 2026 = Any amount paid above $4000 will
be refunded minus the $1000 deposit
- Cancellation after September 1, 2026 = no refund
This price is for a double-occupancy room. If you are traveling alone, we will pair you with another Chica. A limited number of single rooms are available for the land portion in Quito for an additional $600 and for the catamaran portion for an additional $3500.
Save $500 if you book by July 31, 2025!
The price includes the lodging, meals, ground transportation, flights between Quito and the Galapagos Islands, and excursions listed in the itinerary.
We have set up a payment plan that includes a $1000 deposit at booking, then a payment of $4000 on May 1, 2026 and a final payment of $3000 on September 1, 2026. Please contact us if you'd like a custom payment plan.
Since this adventure includes a private catamaran, there are special terms and conditions as follows:
- Non-refundable deposit of $1000 due at booking (deposit may be transferred to another Chicas Abroad trip if you notify us of cancellation prior to May 1, 2026).
- We must have a minimum of 10 guests confirmed for this trip by May 1, 2026 to secure our booking; if the minimum number is not met, guests will receive a full refund
- Refund policy for guest cancellation:
- Cancellation prior to May 1, 2026 = 100% refund minus the $1000 deposit
- Cancellation between May 1, 2026 to September 1, 2026 = Any amount paid above $4000 will
be refunded minus the $1000 deposit
- Cancellation after September 1, 2026 = no refund
This price is for a double-occupancy room. If you are traveling alone, we will pair you with another Chica. A limited number of single rooms are available for the land portion in Quito for an additional $600 and for the catamaran portion for an additional $3500.
The price includes the lodging, meals, ground transportation, flights between Quito and the Galapagos Islands, and excursions listed in the itinerary.
We have set up a payment plan that includes a $1000 deposit at booking, then 10 equal monthly payments of $750 (Dec 2025-Sep 2026). We can adjust the payment plan however you would like, but a minimum of $4000 must be paid by May 1, 2026 (this is when we must pay the boat deposit) and the remaining $3500 must be received by September 1, 2026. Please contact us if you'd like a custom payment plan.
Since this adventure includes a private catamaran, there are special terms and conditions as follows:
- Non-refundable deposit of $1000 due at booking (deposit may be transferred to another Chicas Abroad trip if you notify us of cancellation prior to May 1, 2026).
- We must have a minimum of 10 guests confirmed for this trip by May 1, 2026 to secure our booking; if the minimum number is not met, guests will receive a full refund
- Refund policy for guest cancellation:
- Cancellation prior to May 1, 2026 = 100% refund minus the $1000 deposit
- Cancellation between May 1, 2026 to September 1, 2026 = Any amount paid above $4000 will
be refunded minus the $1000 deposit
- Cancellation after September 1, 2026 = no refund
This price is for a double-occupancy room. If you are traveling alone, we will pair you with another Chica. A limited number of single rooms are available for the land portion in Quito for an additional $600 and for the catamaran portion for an additional $3500.
The price includes the lodging, meals, ground transportation, flights between Quito and the Galapagos Islands, and excursions listed in the itinerary.
We have set up a payment plan that includes a $1000 deposit at booking, then a payment of $4000 on May 1, 2026 and a final payment of $3500 on September 1, 2026. Please contact us if you'd like a custom payment plan.
Since this adventure includes a private catamaran, there are special terms and conditions as follows:
- Non-refundable deposit of $1000 due at booking (deposit may be transferred to another Chicas Abroad trip if you notify us of cancellation prior to May 1, 2026).
- We must have a minimum of 10 guests confirmed for this trip by May 1, 2026 to secure our booking; if the minimum number is not met, guests will receive a full refund
- Refund policy for guest cancellation:
- Cancellation prior to May 1, 2026 = 100% refund minus the $1000 deposit
- Cancellation between May 1, 2026 to September 1, 2026 = Any amount paid above $4000 will
be refunded minus the $1000 deposit
- Cancellation after September 1, 2026 = no refund
This price is for a double-occupancy room. If you are traveling alone, we will pair you with another Chica. A limited number of single rooms are available for the land portion in Quito for an additional $600 and for the catamaran portion for an additional $3500.
Available Add-Ons
Single room supplement for the land portion in Quito.
Single room supplement for the catamaran portion in the Galapagos Islands.
Itinerary
Book your international flight to land in Quito at any time — we'll be there to greet you with a warm welcome and a smooth ride to the hotel! We’ll be staying just steps from a lively plaza, packed with shops, cafés, and sights to explore if you get in early. And if you arrive before dinner, you’re in for a treat — we’ll be gathering for a special welcome dinner to kick off our adventure in beautiful Quito!
Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Quito
Meals Included: Welcome Dinner