Travel to the Galápagos Islands with the Urban Ecology Center in 2024!

Galápagos Islands with Ecuador extension April 7-19, 2024

Charles Darwin called it “a little world within itself”. Sailors referred to it as “Las Encantadas”, the Enchanted Islands. Lying on the eastern Pacific Ocean, straddling the equator off the west coast of South America, the Galápagos is the most pristine archipelago to be found anywhere in the tropics. It is so remote, so untouched, that the act of wading ashore can make you feel like you are the first to do so.

We are thrilled to offer this wonderful journey to the community. 

The adventures begin on San Cristóbal Island, where we will hike, sea kayak, and snorkel among Sea Lions, Frigatebirds, Gulls, and the famous Galápagos Finches!

Then we will head to Santa Cruz Island to look for wild Galapagos Tortoises and Marine iguanas and have a chance to snorkel in areas with sea lions (and maybe penguins) and visit the Charles Darwin Center. 

Later we will head to Isabela Island visiting the Highlands of Sierra Negra Volcano, visiting a local farm and taking the traditional Isabela bus.  We will also visit the Arnaldo Tupiza Breeding Center to learn about efforts to maintain the population of native tortoises on the island (and also to look for Flamingos). 

We’ll visit Tintoreras Island to snorkel and look for White-tipped Reef Sharks (and more penguins?) before heading back to the Mainland to end our journey.

But if you want more we are offering an extension to Mindo, a small valley on the west of the Andes with over 50 species of hummingbirds!  We’ll visit a bird reserve to look for the Cock of the Rock, Toucan Barbet, and the Resplendent Quetzal and take a quick stop at the actual equator!   We will explore the indigenous town of Otavalo and its famous artisan markets with wonderful views of volcanoes or visit the Antisana Reserve, home of the Spectacled Bear and the Andean Condor.

If you are interested in this trip, have questions, or would like more information, contact Tim Vargo at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (414) 964-8505

The Urban Ecology Center Eco-travel program offers a unique way to explore local and international destinations while exploring issues around sustainability. Your participation supports the Urban Ecology Center’s mission.