Marine iguana swimming at the ocean surface with its spiny crest visible, with distant hills and a hazy sky behind it.
Blank white image with no visible content, objects, text, or design elements.


LAND AND SEA

GALAPAGOS EXPEDITION


SHAPED BY THE WILD


Discover the extraordinary world of the Galápagos Islands, where wildlife thrives and every encounter is a reminder of the beauty of nature.


Join us on an intimate expedition shaped by exploration, meaningful connections, and unforgettable moments, where we slow down, embrace the unexpected, and experience the natural world on its own terms.

What?

Where?

Freediving

Citizen Science

Photography and Exploration

San Cristóbal

Galápagos Islands

 

When?

 

 

Who?

 

 

May 2nd - 8th

2027


 

 

YOU! and 7 other humans

(8 pax)

 

Close-up view of a map

The Galápagos Islands


A living museum of evolution, the Galápagos Islands are unlike anywhere else on Earth.


Isolated in the Pacific Ocean, this volcanic archipelago is home to an astonishing variety of wildlife found nowhere else — from playful sea lions and majestic giant tortoises to schools of hammerhead sharks gliding through its rich waters.


Each island tells its own story through unique landscapes, from lava fields and lush highlands to pristine white-sand beaches. Here, time slows down, and nature takes center stage — offering the rare chance to connect deeply with the wild.

Sea lion resting on a wooden park bench at golden hour, with warm sunlight filtering through trees and long shadows on the paved walkway.

San Cristobal Island


San Cristóbal was the very first island Charles Darwin stepped onto during his second voyage with the HMS Beagle in 1835.


Though small, it holds incredible natural richness, sheltering a dazzling array of wildlife—frigatebirds soaring above, giant Galápagos tortoises roaming the highlands, playful sea lions along the shores, and so much more.


What makes San Cristóbal truly unforgettable (and one of my personal favorites!), and why our journeys start here, is the unique energy it carries: the island’s vivid landscapes, the warmth of its community, and above all, the profound sense of connection to nature that embraces you the instant you arrive.


 

Freediving & Exploration Spots

 

This expedition focuses on exploration with opportunities for free diving workshops, but no formal free diving training.

You'll still get plenty of chances to free dive, from swimming with turtles and sea lions in shallow waters to deep diving with hammerhead sharks at Kicker Rock. The adventure never stops!



For Freediving: A freediving certification is NOT required to attend, but we highly recommend having at least a level 1 freediver certification or having completed a freediving class before the trip to fully embrace the experience and make the most of the expedition

**Locations and activities may change depending on the weather and swell conditions.


Towering rock formations rise from calm turquoise water under a cloudy blue sky, with a tiny boat in the distance for scale.
School of hammerhead sharks swimming together in deep blue ocean water, with one large shark in the foreground.
Person mid-dive off a tall rock spire into the ocean beside a boat labeled Tongo Reef, with towering cliffs and blue sky behind.
Freediver in a black wetsuit and long fins glides through deep blue water surrounded by a huge school of silver fish.
Three blacktip sharks swim over a sandy seafloor in clear, shallow turquoise water with sunlight rippling through the surface.
Woman standing on a white sandy beach holding a paddle beside crystal-clear turquoise water, with boats and a rocky island under a blue sky.
A spotted eagle ray glides gracefully through deep blue ocean water as soft sunbeams illuminate its speckled wings.
A hammerhead shark swims upward through deep blue ocean water, its wide hammer-shaped head and dorsal fins visible from below.
Freediver in fins and a swimsuit glides through deep blue ocean water beside a spotted eagle ray with a long trailing tail.

Kicker Rock


Known locally as “León Dormido” (Sleeping Lion), Kicker Rock is one of the most iconic snorkeling spots in the Galápagos!


Our mission here? To find the scalloped hammerhead sharks! Of course, wildlife is always unpredictable, but if we get lucky enough to spot them, that's a big win! Along the way, we might also encounter Galápagos sharks, blacktips, eagle rays, and huge schools of fish.


After our snorkel, we'll head to Bahía Sardina, a beautiful white-sand beach where we can relax, enjoy some time by the ocean, and maybe even get the chance to chill with some blacktip reef sharks in the shallows!


HALF DAY BOAT TOUR

 

Aerial view of a small rocky island in turquoise ocean water near a coastline, with a boat and an arrow pointing to it.
A waved albatross with a bright yellow bill rests on a rocky, moss-covered ground against a soft blue sky.
Freediver in fins swimming beneath a rocky coral overhang in clear blue ocean water, with small fish scattered around the reef.
Photographer in a cap crouches on a rocky coastal shore to photograph two waved albatrosses, with ocean waves in the background.
White tour boat anchored near rocky volcanic shoreline in turquoise water as snorkelers swim nearby on a sunny day.
Aerial view of a freediver in a blue wetsuit and long fins floating arms raised over a rippled white sand seabed in clear turquoise water.
A blue-footed booby perches atop a dark volcanic rock formation above the ocean surface under a soft blue sky with scattered clouds.
A sea lion with long whiskers sits upright in shallow water, lifting its head and looking upward in a calm, curious pose.

Española Island


At over four million years old, Española is the oldest island in the Galápagos and one of the most special places to visit!


One of the highlights here is the chance to witness the famous waved albatross courtship dance, a beautiful ritual that takes place during their breeding season, from April to December.


But Española has more surprises waiting for us! We'll also visit one of our favorite hidden spots, where the water is so incredibly clear it almost feels like swimming in glass. You'll see what we mean when we get there!


FULL DAY BOAT TOUR

 

Woman with long blonde hair holding a telephoto camera lens stands on rugged volcanic rock overlooking a turquoise ocean and rocky islands.
A hiker with a backpack walks along the edge of a rugged lava rock formation under a blue sky, with a caption reading this is all lava.
Swimmers relax in a turquoise natural tide pool surrounded by dark volcanic lava rock along a rugged ocean coastline.
A line of hikers walks single file along a rocky cliff ridge above a jumble of large boulders under a cloudy sky.
Swimmers float in a circle on their backs in a clear turquoise tidal pool surrounded by black volcanic rock with the ocean beyond.
Hiker in light clothing walks up a rugged volcanic lava rock trail under a bright blue sky with scattered white clouds.

Punta Pucuna


We'll explore one of the youngest volcanic areas of San Cristóbal, where you can really appreciate the island's geological history through its incredible lava formations.



Here, we'll walk across a rugged landscape of dark volcanic rock, surrounded by beautiful ocean views and the chance to spot some wildlife along the way.


And did we mention we'll get our very own natural lava rock pool? Yep! The perfect way to cool off after our volcanic hike!


HALF DAY BOAT TOUR

A curious young sea lion swims toward the camera in clear blue ocean water, with a playful
A spotted seahorse clings by its tail to a dark post in murky underwater shallows, with submerged branches and debris in the background.
Snorkeler in a blue mask floats underwater among tangled mangrove roots, with sunlight filtering through the clear green water above.
A snorkeler surrounded by a large school of yellowfin surgeonfish swimming over rocky reef in clear blue ocean water.
Close-up of a dark marine iguana with spiny crest resting its head on a rough volcanic rock, with a soft blurred natural background.
Close-up of a hawksbill sea turtle swimming near the sandy ocean floor, showing its patterned shell and detailed face.

Tour 360


One of the best ways to explore San Cristóbal is by going all the way around it! This full-day boat tour takes us to some of the island's most beautiful and remote spots, giving us the chance to experience different landscapes, wildlife, and snorkeling sites all in one day.


One of our favorite missions of the day? Searching for tiny seahorses among the mangroves!


Spots we'll visit:


Kicker Rock (yes, again!)

Cerro Brujo – Scenic boat ride

Bahía Sardina – Beach walk & snorkeling

Punta Pitt – Birdwatching from the boat

Bahía Rosa Blanca – Beach walk & snorkeling




FULL DAY BOAT TOUR

 

Close-up profile of a giant Galapagos tortoise with textured, weathered skin and a patterned shell against a blurred green background.
Man in a blue t-shirt balances in a horizontal planche pose on a rock beside a calm lake, with grassy hills under a cloudy sky.
Group of smiling travelers poses behind a giant tortoise on a rocky path beneath bright, leafy trees in the Galapagos Islands.
A group of Galapagos giant tortoises stretch their long necks upward beneath bare tree branches, with one tortoise chewing green leaves.
Two giant tortoises face each other with long necks stretched out, one opening its mouth wide against a softly blurred background.
Woman in a tan top and black shorts runs along a narrow path through golden grass on a hillside overlooking the sea under cloudy skies.

El Junco Lagoon & Galapaguera  


Time to explore a completely different side of San Cristóbal! We'll head up to the highlands, where the landscape changes from dry coastal areas to lush greenery and cooler temperatures.


Our first stop is La Galapaguera, where we'll get to meet the iconic Galápagos giant tortoises and learn more about the efforts to protect them.


Then we'll visit El Junco Lagoon, a freshwater lake inside an ancient volcanic crater. After a short hike to the top, we'll enjoy beautiful views and hopefully spot frigatebirds swooping down to bathe in the water!


HALF DAY LAND TOUR

Freediver in a wetsuit and long fins swims underwater beside a brown sea lion, with other sea lions and their shadows on the sandy seafloor.
Hikers with backpacks walk along a stone path lined with tall cactus trees and lush greenery in a tropical landscape.
A freediver wearing long fins swims underwater beside a playful sea lion above a sandy seabed in clear blue water.
Curious young sea lion pup resting on a rock on the sandy seafloor, with a white sea urchin beside it in clear blue underwater light.
A snorkeler in fins glides underwater above sea lions swimming in clear turquoise ocean water.
A curious sea lion swims upward in clear blue ocean water, releasing bubbles while a snorkeler watches from the background.

Tijeretas


Our mission for the afternoon? Spend some time with the true stars of the Galápagos: the sea lions!


Tucked away in the beautiful waters of Tijeretas Bay, this snorkeling spot offers the chance to share the ocean with some of the most curious and playful residents of the islands.



Get ready for curious encounters, underwater acrobatics, and plenty of unforgettable moments with these charismatic pups, always on their own terms!



HALF DAY HIKE AND SNORKEL

Collection of underwater sea lion photos showing playful behavior in natural habitat.

 

And it doesn't end there...

 

If weather and time permit, we may also include visits to some of our favorite spots around San Cristóbal!


Places like La Lobería and Punta Carola are perfect for more snorkeling, freediving, wildlife encounters, or simply enjoying some time by the ocean. There's always something to discover on this little island!

Extreme close-up of a marine iguana's scaly skin and eye in the Galapagos.

INVESTMENT STARTING AT:

 

$3800 USD

EARLY BIRD PRICE: $3600 USD

A 50% deposit is required to book your spot

 

SPOTS AVAILABLE: 8

MAY 2ND - 8TH

2027


HOW MANY DAYS: 7 DAYS 6 NIGHTS

EXPERIENCE NEEDED: COMFORTABLE SWIMMING IN OPEN WATER

 

Pricing is for shared rooms, but if you’d prefer your own space, single-occupancy options are available for an additional fee  (spots are limited!). 

 

 

Apply now

WHAT'S INCLUDED?


  • Accommodation 7 days 6 nights + Breakfast
  • 5 x lunches (all full days, excludes departure and arrival days)
  • x 3 Dinners
  • 4 Boat Tours to Española, Punta Pucuna, Kicker Rock & 360 tour (Freediving and exploring).
  • Land Tours: Highlands, El Junco & Galapaguera plus other beautiful spots on the island
  • Transportation around the Island
  • Professional Photographer (General photo gallery of the trip)
  • Safety Diver in all boat tours
  • Local Naturalist Guide on every tour
  • Weights & weight belts
  • Editing & Freediving workshops

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED?



  • Air tickets
  • Meals outside of mentioned meals
  • For International Guests: Exit from CGREG $20 USD & Entrance to the PNG $200 USD
  • Gratuities/Tips for Guides & Crew
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Travel Insurance (mandatory)
  • Personal Medical Expenses
  • Professional cameras (we highly recommend bringing your underwater photography gear or GoPros) Drones nor flash strobes will be allowed.
  • Freediving Gear (wetsuit, mask, fins) is not included but we have basic snorkel gear available for you to rent.

Why an application process?


Every expedition is shaped not only by the places we explore and the wildlife we encounter, but also by the people who share the experience.


We keep our groups small, and the application process helps us get to know you a little better, understand your experience in the ocean, and make sure everyone shares a similar respect for nature and wildlife.


But just as importantly, we want to make sure we’re the right fit for YOU! That you understand what to expect from this experience and feel comfortable and excited about joining us.


It’s not about being an expert or having a certain level of experience. It’s about bringing together people who are open-minded, respectful, and ready to embrace whatever nature has in store.

Ready to apply?

 

Some more details...

 

Three people in wetsuits pose on an inflatable boat beside towering rocky sea cliffs rising from calm ocean water under an overcast sky.
Boat floating on blue ocean waters with someone diving in.

About the accommodation and local operator


Your stay will be at the charming, locally owned Tongo Reef Hotel, which has recently been renovated to offer a fresh and inviting atmosphere. While it isn’t a luxury property, it’s comfortable, authentic, and perfectly aligned with the spirit of our expedition. Both the hotel and the boat company are run by the same local family, who have been operating in the islands for decades.


We've personally worked with this family and known them since our very first trip to San Cristóbal 11 years ago. Watching them grow their business over the years has been incredibly inspiring, and it makes us genuinely proud to now support them with every expedition we run.


By staying here, we’re not only enjoying a meaningful, locally rooted experience, but also directly helping sustain the community that makes these journeys possible.

 

Now meet your hosts...

 

Smiling shirtless man in cap and sunglasses and woman in an Aqua Sphere wetsuit pose on a boat with ocean waves and a rocky island behind.

Dana & Juan

KAIJU CO-FOUNDERS


For over twelve years, Dana and Juan have shared a life shaped by their love for the ocean, wild places, and the meaningful connections made along the way.


What began as a shared passion for nature and adventure has grown into KAIJU Expeditions bringing together Dana’s experience leading expeditions and their mutual love for storytelling, exploration, and welcoming others into the places that mean the most to them.


More than a project, KAIJU is a reflection of the life they’ve built together and their desire to share it with others.


@danabjarner @johnygohan @kaijuexpeditions

Candid black and white portrait of photographer smiling while using camera.

 

Kat & Sander

 

MARINE BIOLOGY GUIDANCE & PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP


Maysa is a biologist, passionate photographer, and environmental educator. Since 2014, she has been dedicated to environmental conservation, working with organizations worldwide.

Her contributions include rescuing native big cats in South Africa, endangered primates in Brazil, and serving as an ambassador for major non-profits like WWF and Only One.

Recently, she has been involved with Sea Shepherd Brazil.


A lifelong traveler, Maysa feels most at home in wild, natural settings, finding comfort in the discomfort. Equipped with diving gear, cameras, and maps, she uses digital media and storytelling to educate, inspire, and advocate for changing our interactions with the natural world.


During our expedition together, Maysa will be sharing her knowledge regarding the wildlife encounters we have.


@maysasantoro

Group of ten smiling friends posing and cheering on rocks beside a calm lake under a cloudy sky on an outdoor adventure trip.

OUR COMMITMENT TO SAFETY & VALUES


At KAIJU, we believe that how we explore the world matters just as much as where we go.

Creating a safe, respectful, and welcoming environment is at the heart of everything we do. Our responsibility extends beyond our guests to the wildlife, local communities, and places that welcome us.

HERE'S WHAT YOU CAN ALWAYS EXPECT FROM US:
People enjoy water activities and jet skiing in a scenic tropical lagoon on a sunny day with blue skies.
Small groups, thoughtfully brought together:

Our application process helps us connect with guests who share our values, respect for nature, and spirit of exploration.

Our guests are our priority:

From the moment you apply until the end of the expedition, we're here to help you prepare, answer questions, and make sure you know what to expect. During the expedition, our priority is creating a supportive environment where everyone feels included and cared for.


Photographer in a cap crouches on a rocky coastal shore to photograph two waved albatrosses, with ocean waves in the background.
Safety always comes first:

We work with experienced operators and guides, prioritize safety briefings, and never compromise anyone's well-being for an encounter or photograph.

RESPECT WILDLIFE AT ALL TIMES:

WE ARE VISITORS IN THEIR WORLD. EVERY ENCOUNTER HAPPENS ON NATURE'S TERMS, WITH PATIENCE, RESPECT, AND WITHOUT FORCING INTERACTIONS. NO PHOTOGRAPH OR EXPERIENCE IS WORTH COMPROMISING AN ANIMAL'S WELL-BEING.
Three smiling people in wetsuits pose together on an inflatable boat in front of towering rock spires rising from the ocean.
Respect for local communities:

We prioritize working with local guides, captains, businesses, and partners who know these places best. We believe in listening, learning, and making sure our presence contributes positively to the communities that welcome us.

Giving back:

We contribute to locally led conservation projects that work to protect the wildlife and ecosystems we have the privilege of experiencing. We believe in supporting the people who dedicate their lives to protecting these places.
A group of people sit in a circle on a green grassy hillside under a partly cloudy sky, sharing a relaxed outdoor gathering.
Professional boundaries are non-negotiable:

Our expedition leaders and collaborators are expected to maintain respectful and professional relationships with every guest. We have zero tolerance for harassment, discrimination, inappropriate behavior, or abuse of power. Everyone deserves to feel safe and respected.

Respect goes both ways:

We expect everyone to approach the experience with kindness, openness, and consideration for others. Behavior that compromises the safety or well-being of the group will not be tolerated.
A group of hikers raise their arms in celebration on top of a rugged volcanic rock formation under a clear blue sky.
Above all, we want KAIJU to be a space where people can connect with nature, with others, and with themselves, while feeling safe, respected, and welcome.

These aren't just guidelines for our expeditions. They're the values we want to carry into every place we visit and every experience we share.

 

THIS IS WHAT 2026 LOOKED LIKE

 

A dark moody underwater scene with bubbles rising against a deep blue background.
Scuba divers exploring underwater rock formations in crystal clear blue waters with sunlight filtering from above.
People enjoy water activities and jet skiing in a scenic tropical lagoon on a sunny day with blue skies.
A photographer explores a scenic wetland landscape with marsh grasses and water features in natural lighting.
A series of close-up profile shots showing a sea lion's head in golden sunset light against a blurred ocean background.
A sequence of photos showing a giant Galapagos tortoise walking across rocky terrain covered in fallen leaves.
Scuba diver in wetsuit sitting on underwater rocks against deep blue ocean background with snorkel gear.
Hikers ascending a steep rocky volcanic terrain under bright blue skies with wispy clouds.
A scuba diver swims gracefully underwater in turquoise blue waters near a sandy ocean floor.
A group of people walking on a pristine white sand beach with turquoise waters and mountains in the distance.
Two friends in swimsuits leap joyfully from a rocky ledge into blue ocean waters on a sunny day.
A sea lion swims gracefully underwater, creating a rippling reflection on the dark ocean surface.
A hiker in athletic wear walks along a scenic dirt trail winding through green hills under cloudy skies.
A line of hikers walking along the ridge of a sandy desert dune against a bright blue sky.
Close-up portrait of a Galapagos giant tortoise showing its weathered face and textured shell.
A scuba diver and sea lion swim together underwater in clear blue water with a sandy ocean floor.
Wooden benches line a waterfront walkway during golden hour with silhouetted trees against an orange sky.
A sea turtle swims underwater near coral and rocky formations in clear turquoise waters.
A spotted eagle ray glides gracefully through deep blue ocean waters with its distinctive long tail trailing behind.
Photographer with long hair stands on rocky cliff overlooking blue ocean and dramatic rock formations in distance.
Close-up view of a blue-footed booby's bright turquoise webbed feet perched on dark volcanic rock.
Dramatic view of Kicker Rock formation rising from blue ocean waters near the Galapagos Islands at sunset.
Photographer with telephoto lens capturing coastal scenery from rocky shoreline with ocean and islands in background.
People enjoying the crystal clear waters and rocky coastline of a tropical beach destination.
Group of snorkelers floating in clear tropical waters near mangroves on a sunny day.
A group of tourists gather around a giant Galapagos tortoise on rocky terrain surrounded by vegetation.
Scenic panoramic view of rugged coastal cliffs and turquoise blue ocean waters under bright sunny skies.
Underwater view of swimmers exploring the vibrant turquoise waters near a rocky shoreline.
Group of friends sitting together on scenic rocky overlook with lake and mountains in background.
Close-up view of a marine iguana's scaly head and face against a textured rocky surface.
Underwater view of scuba divers exploring coral reefs beneath overhanging rocks in clear blue tropical waters.
A seabird perches on a rocky cliff overlooking the ocean with a cloudy blue sky in the background.

FAQ

 

Do I need to be a certified Freediver to join?

Not at all! A freediving certification is not required to join this expedition. However, we do encourage our guests to take at least an introductory freediving lesson or a Level 1 course before coming.

The only requirement is that you know how to swim and feel comfortable in open water and currents.

Is Freediving gear included or available for rent?

We provide weights and weight belts, so you don't need to worry about those!

We recommend bringing your own gear, including a mask, freediving fins, and wetsuit, as rental options on the island are limited, expensive, and mostly geared toward scuba diving.

If you're buying new gear, we also recommend testing it out on a few dives before the trip to make sure everything fits and feels comfortable.

Once you book your spot, we'll share a detailed expedition guide with gear recommendations and everything you need to prepare!

How do I get to San Cristóbal Island?

Getting here is pretty easy! You'll need to fly into San Cristóbal Airport (SCY) from mainland Ecuador, with flights departing from Quito or Guayaquil.

We recommend arriving at least one day before the expedition starts, especially if you're traveling internationally, to avoid any issues with flight delays.

Once you arrive in San Cristóbal, we'll take care of your airport transfer and the rest of the adventure!

What will we be doing for meals?

We've got most of your meals covered!

Breakfast: All breakfasts are included and served buffet-style at our hotel.

Lunch: 5 lunches are included (excluding arrival and departure days). Most will be packed lunches for our boat tours, plus one lunch at a local spot.

Dinner: 3 dinners are included: our Welcome Dinner, Pizza Night, and Goodbye Dinner!

For the remaining evenings, you'll be free to explore local restaurants and choose whatever you're in the mood for!

Can you handle dietary requirements?

Yes, within reason! Keep in mind we're on an island, so options can sometimes be limited.

The good news is that we've chosen restaurants with a variety of dietary options. We can also accommodate restrictions like vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free for our packed lunches.

Just make sure to let us know about any dietary restrictions in advance so we can plan accordingly!

How do I secure my spot?

Once you've read through all the expedition details and are ready to join us, simply hit the APPLY NOW button to fill out our application form!

After reviewing your application, we'll send you an invitation via email. Please note that we can only hold your spot for 48 hours after sending the invitation.

To officially secure your place, a 50% deposit is required to confirm your reservation. That's it, you're in!

What if I need to cancel my trip?

We understand that plans can change! However, due to our small group sizes and commitments to local partners, our 50% deposit is non-refundable under our standard cancellation policy.

If you need to cancel, you may be eligible for a refund depending on when you cancel:

  • 60 days or more before departure: 100% refund of your booking price, excluding the non-refundable deposit.
  • 31–59 days before departure: 50% refund of your booking price, excluding the non-refundable deposit.
  • 30 days or less before departure: No refunds under the standard cancellation policy.

The remaining 50% balance is due 60 days before departure.

Refunds are calculated based on your agreed booking price, including any discounts or additional fees, after deducting the non-refundable deposit. Refunds cannot exceed the amount you've actually paid beyond your deposit. Any applicable international bank transfer fees will be deducted from your refund.

If an approved replacement guest books and pays 61 days or more before departure, you may receive a full refund, including your deposit. Later replacements may still be possible, subject to additional costs.

Please review our full Cancellation & Refund Policy for all conditions, exceptions, and applicable legal rights before booking. Linked below.

Can I get close to the animals? Are wildlife encounters guaranteed?

Wildlife encounters can never be guaranteed! Nature is unpredictable, and every encounter happens on the animals' terms.

The Galápagos National Park requires visitors to keep a minimum distance of 2 meters (6.5 feet) from wildlife. If an animal approaches us, we'll calmly move out of its way whenever it's safe to do so, giving it plenty of space.

We never chase, touch, feed, or disturb wildlife. Their wellbeing always comes first!

Read Our Full Expedition Policies
Pod of dolphins swimming together in deep blue ocean waters.

 

STILL HAVE SOME DOUBTS?

 

I’m here for you!

Reach out with any questions you might have and let’s bring this adventure to life.

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An albatross spreads its large wings while flying through a clear blue sky.