Ecuador / Galápagos with Lifebound

I took an incredible 18-day trip, “Ecuador Including the Galápagos Islands,” June 10-28, 2013. This was my second trip with Lifebound Tours (Fallbrook, CA; 760/742-3455).

The cost of this trip was $4,950 each, which, for a shared double, included airfare from many cities in the US. A roommate would be provided if you were traveling alone and did not wish to pay an extra $400 for a single room.

It was an exceptional value, covering the round trip from Guayaquíl to the Galápagos, the 100-dollar national park fee and other entrance fees, all meals and tips. The only thing not included was the rental of snorkel gear and wetsuits on the yacht. 

Except for the four days in the Galápagos, we had a large bus and driver for the entire trip — 16 of us, including the tour company owner and tour leader, Rick Marin. In the Galápagos, our boat was for our group only. 

Half of our group were vegetarians, whose meal requirements were accommodated with no problem. During the land portion, Rick had made arrangements at two places for us to have musical entertainment during dinner.

One of the main pleasures was, in comfort in our bus, seeing the views of the magnificent Andes as we crossed the mountain range several times. Also memorable — staying in small, ranch-type accommodations and experiencing the local cuisine! I enjoyed it all.

ANITA LEES

Vista, CA