Quick Facts

Destination: Galapagos, Ecuador

Route: Galapagos Western Archipelago, Darwin And Wolf Islands

Dates: 4th - 13th May 2028

Type of trip: Women’s Only Wildlife Expedition

Group size: 15 Trippers + 1 GTS host

Dive requirements: AOW or equivilent with 100 logged dives

Duration: 9 nights/10 Days

Fly in/out:  Baltra GPS (International flight to Quito UIO or Guayaquil GYE, then domestic flight to Baltra)

We're thrilled to be returning to the Galápagos for the third year in a row, bringing another group of adventurous women to one of the world's most extraordinary diving destinations. Renowned for its incredible biodiversity and unforgettable wildlife encounters, the Galápagos is a place that leaves a lasting impression long after you've surfaced. From schooling hammerhead sharks and playful sea lions to manta rays, marine iguanas and, if we're lucky, even orcas, every dive promises something spectacular.

This is so much more than a scuba diving trip, it's a complete wildlife expedition above and below the surface. Sharing these incredible experiences with a group of fun, supportive and like-minded women aboard one of the Galápagos' premier liveaboards makes it even more unforgettable. If the Galápagos has been on your bucket list, we'd love for you to join us for another incredible Girls That Scuba adventure!

Please note that the cost of the hotel and included fee's are valid as of 2026 and are subject to change, which is outside of our control. If any increases are imposed you will be informed by email and your balance will be adjusted.

For non-included fee's, we will notify you if we are made aware of any changes.

We make sure to book our trips years in advance to secure the best dates and rates for you at the time, and thank you for your understanding with this!

New to Girls that Scuba trips? Find out more about our trips, the Girls that Scuba difference, along with the respect and openness we ask for on these experiences as well as any requirements. Read our full Girls that Scuba Trips Community Norms and FAQs through the button below.

Diving in Galapagos is not for the faint hearted - this is only for divers who are confident in challenging, unpredictable conditions, negative entries and variable temperatures.

This is an intense expedition-style trip with a packed itinerary, combining multiple dives, land excursions and long ocean crossings between islands. Conditions can be unpredictable, with changing weather, sea conditions and occasional rough crossings all adding to the sense of exploration. Expect early starts, busy days and a trip designed around making the absolute most of every opportunity to experience this extraordinary destination both above and below the surface.

This is a medium-sized group of 16 women. Some guests will already know each other from previous Girls that Scuba trips, but many join us completely solo. Expect a social atmosphere with music, laughter, shared meals, sunset drinks and plenty of excitement as you experience the Galapagos together. We ask that you're happy to be part of the group and embrace the energy that comes with travelling alongside like-minded women. If you're looking for a quiet retreat or lots of alone time, this probably isn't the right trip for you. Read more about what to expect from the community on our trips here.

To join this trip, all divers must hold Advanced Open Water (or equivalent) certification and have a minimum of 100 logged dives. The Galápagos Islands are one of the most exciting and challenging dive destinations in the world, and this requirement ensures you'll be prepared to get the most out of the experience.

Expect to encounter strong and unpredictable currents, stationary dives (where you may hold onto rocks to watch the action), variable visibility, and dramatic changes in water temperature.

In May, the Galápagos is transitioning between the warm and cool seasons, offering an exciting mix of conditions. Water temperatures typically range from 22–26°C (72–79°F) around Darwin and Wolf, although cooler thermoclines can still be encountered on some dives. Visibility varies depending on currents and nutrient-rich upwellings but generally ranges between 15-30 metres (50-100 feet).

Everything You Need to Know About Diving in the Galapagos

Tiburon Explorer

Known as one of the best liveaboards in the Galápagos (only the best for Girls that Scuba!), the Tiburon Explorer offers luxury, comfort, and safety. Catering to just 16 guests, the vessel features 9 spacious cabins located on the lower and main decks.

The sun deck is perfect for unwinding between dives, with both shaded and full-sun areas, a jacuzzi, a bar and an outdoor dining space. On the main deck, you’ll find a comfortable air-conditioned dining and lounge area, multimedia system with a large TV screen and easy access to the dive platform.

You will be sharing a twin room with another female GTS Tripper, with a choice of:

Main Deck Stateroom

The upper deck cabins are smaller and more intimate than those of the lower deck, but they make up for it with large panoramic windows that fill the room with natural light and stunning ocean views. Each cabin includes twin beds, a private en-suite bathroom, air conditioning and storage. These cabins are perfect for guests who value views!

Lower Deck Larger Stateroom

The lower deck staterooms on the Tiburon Explorer are spacious and comfortable, offering plenty of room to stretch out and store your belongings. Each cabin features twin bed, a private en-suite bathroom and air conditioning for your comfort. These staterooms provide a spacious yet cozy retreat where you can relax after a full day of diving and exploration.

Welcome to the Galapagos!

Touch down at Baltra Airport, transfer to your hotel on Santa Cruz Island and take the afternoon to unwind and settle in after your journey.

In the early evening, meet your Girls That Scuba Host and the group for a relaxed sunset cocktail. Later, enjoy a leisurely evening exploring Puerto Ayora and choose somewhere for dinner at your own pace.

Charles Darwin Research Station

Visit the world-famous Charles Darwin Research Station. Here, you’ll learn about the conservation efforts that protect the Galápagos’ unique wildlife, including the iconic giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and the story of Lonesome George. The station offers fascinating exhibits on research, restoration projects, and the islands’ incredible biodiversity.

Afterwards, spend the rest of the day wandering the souvenir shops of Puerto Ayora, or craft your own adventure exploring the many sights and experiences Santa Cruz Island has to offer.

(Later in the trip, we’ll visit the El Chato Tortoise Reserve in the highlands of Santa Cruz for a closer look at the giant tortoises in their natural habitat, so we advise not going there on this day.)

Hello Tiburon Explorer!

Today, we board our Galápagos liveaboard, the Tiburon Explorer. Settle in, enjoy a delicious lunch on board, and unpack and set up your dive gear.

Later, join the safety briefing to get familiar with the vessel, followed by a sunset cocktail and welcome briefing on the sundeck. It's time to get excited for the adventures ahead!

Let's go diving!

The following schedule outlines the expedition program for the week aboard the Tiburon Explorer, though all dives, visits, and timings may be adjusted due to weather, sea conditions or wildlife encounters. The REAL adventure starts here!

Sunday: Baltra North (2 Dives)
Equipment check, 7:00 and 10:00 dives
Sightings include rays and schools of fish.
Afternoon North Seymour land visit. Walk the path around North Seymour Island to see the large colonies of Blue Footed Boobies and Frigate Birds. Sighting of Sea Lions and Marine Iguanas are also common.
Depart for Wolf Island (long transit)

Monday: Wolf Island (3-4 Dives)
10:30. 2:00 and 4:30 dives. Possible night dive.
Sightings often include hammerheads, eagle rays, sea lions, Galapagos sharks and silky sharks

Tuesday: Darwin Island (4 Dives)
6:30, 10:30, 2:00 and 4:30 dives
Sightings often include hammerheads, eagle rays, Galapagos sharks and silky sharks.
Transit to Wolf Island

Wednesday: Wolf Island (3-4 Dives)
6:30, 10:30, 2:00 and 4:30 dives
Sightings often include hammerheads, eagle rays, Galapagos sharks and silky sharks.
Transit to Cabo Douglas (12 hours)

Thursday: Cabo Douglas (1-2 Dives)
Sightings include marine iguanas.
Transit to Punta Vicente Roca

Punta Vicente Roca (1-2 Dives)
Sightings often include mola mola, turtles and macro life.
Transit to Cousins Rock (10 hours)

Friday: Cousins Rock (2 Dives)
6:30 and 9:30 dives
This is a great macro diving with an excellent chance of seeing sea horses, sea lions and eagle rays. Lunch will be served while transiting to Santa Cruz (3 hours). Travel by bus to the Santa Cruz Highlands to visit the giant tortoises in their natural habitat. Transfer to the town of Puerto Ayora. Group dinner in Puerto Ayora. Return to the Tiburon Explorer at 8:30pm - time to pack!

Please note your no-fly time when booking your flights for the following day.

Goodbye Galapagos!

Early this morning we will disembark from the Tiburon Explorer and transfer to the airport.

Say your goodbyes to your new friends for life, and take with you unforgettable memories of your Galapagos expedition adventure!

Before saying goodbye to Ecuador, embark on one final adventure and explore the colourful streets, fascinating history and incredible architecture of Quito, the world's highest capital city!

(Quito is the main city that you can fly into Ecuador internationally - this is the best option for flying to Galapagos domestically, and well worth extending your stay here for a few days before flying home!)

Includes all activities listed below, and 3 nights accommodation at Dann Carlton Quito with breakfast (you will be sharing a twin room with another GTS Tripper!)

13th - Arrival in Quito

• Fly from Baltra to Quito - you are responsible for organising your own domestic flight, we will help advise you on which one to book

• Group Private Airport transfer

• Check-in at Dann Carlton Quito (from 2:00pm)

• Free time to rest or explore the local area

14th - Quito City Tour

Escape the city and head into the beautiful Mindo cloud forest, just two hours from Quito. Surrounded by lush rainforest, waterfalls and incredible birdlife, this full-day adventure combines nature, wildlife and advenure.

Visit a colourful butterfly garden and hummingbird sanctuary, hike through Pahuma Forest to a beautiful waterfall, and choose your own adventure with river tubing, zip-lining or a cacao experience. Lunch is also included, making this the perfect day to experience the wild side of Ecuador.

Duration: 3-4 hours
Includes: Transportation, guide, entrance fees and lunch

15th – Otavalo Indigenous Market (Full-Day Tour)

The day begins at the Equator, before heading into the mountains for a taste of local life and some seriously beautiful scenery. Take in views of San Pablo Lake and Imbabura Volcano, sample traditional Cayambe bizcochos, and immerse yourself in the colourful Otavalo Indigenous Market, one of the most famous markets in South America.

After lunch, continue to Cotacachi, known for its leather goods, before finishing at the beautiful Peguche Waterfall - a sacred site for the local Kichwa community.

A brilliant way to experience the landscapes, flavours and culture of Ecuador beyond the Galápagos.

Duration: Full day
Includes: Transportation, bilingual guide, tasting experience and lunch

16th - Departure

• Check-out from Dann Carlton Quito in the morning

• Taxi to Quito airport not included - we will send you our trusted taxi company contact which will be $25 per taxi

Your Host for this unforgettable trip is Imogen, our GTS Customer Experience Manager and in-house dive pro!

Imogen is a UK based Padi Dive Instructor, and specialises in cold water dry suit diving. Her mantra is that if you can dive in open water in the UK, you can dive anywhere!

Fun fact: she has converted her own van which she lives in full time, and is the go-to girl for anything cold water and cold weather! 🚐

All bookings are subject to our cancellation policy. Deposits are non-refundable under any circumstance, and cancellation timelines apply to any additional payments made. If you need to cancel, we will always do our best to assist in reselling your space where possible, in line with the policy terms.

Please read the full cancellation policy and ensure you are familiar with the terms before booking. By signing up for this trip, you confirm that you have read and agree to the Girls That Scuba Trips cancellation policy.