Loved everything about this trip!
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Overall, this trip had some memorable moments, especially the experiences in the Galápagos Islands, where the local guides were excellent. However, there were several significant issues that made the trip feel rushed, poorly communicated, and not a good value for the cost. The itinerary was far too rushed. By day three, many people were already exhausted. Moving constantly from place to place, combined with long travel days and limited downtime, made it difficult to actually enjoy the experience. We also did not realize ahead of time how frequently we would be changing hotels or that we would be taking multiple 2½-hour ferry rides between islands. That level of detail should have been clearly communicated before the trip so participants could properly prepare, especially since many people became seasick. The accommodations were also very disappointing. Several of the hotels felt more like hostels than hotels. Some were dirty, one did not have water available in the shower in the evening, and several only had cold water. For the amount paid, the lodging should have been cleaner, more comfortable, and more reliable. The food was another major issue. With the exception of one location, the turtle farm, the meals were very basic, bland, and at times inedible. We were not expecting luxury meals, but the food quality was consistently below what we would consider acceptable for a paid educational tour. The main tour guide was okay at first, but became somewhat rude and abrupt as the trip went on. In contrast, the guides on the Galápagos Islands were great and were one of the better parts of the trip. Communication was one of the biggest disappointments. Our point of contact did not properly communicate important details to the lead teacher before or during the trip. Before we left, we had very little understanding of how we would be getting from island to island, and trying to research it online was not helpful. Once a trip is booked, EF should provide participants with much more specific information, including hotel changes, ferry lengths, transportation details, expectations for meals, and anything participants should bring or prepare for. The flights were also very frustrating. Having 12- to 13-hour layovers was ridiculous. The Miami tour during the layover was a complete waste of time. The guide was nice, but the tour itself was not worthwhile. We did appreciate having a hotel in Miami on the way back because of the 12-hour layover, but once again, communication was poor. No one told us the checkout time, and we received abrupt phone calls at 2:10 p.m. saying we were supposed to have checked out by 2:00 p.m. That information should have been clearly communicated by EF to the group leader. With better communication, a less rushed itinerary, cleaner and more reliable hotels, and better food, this trip could have felt much more valuable. Unfortunately, it often felt like EF cut corners on the most important details while failing to prepare participants for what the trip would actually involve.
My son had a trip of a lifetime!
My son had an amazing experience traveling to the Galapagos islands. Everything was well organized, and planned and the communication all the way through was amazing.
My son had an amazing trip to the Galapagos Islands. I appreciated the level of organization and communication that made it easy for me to feel confident that everything was covered. The itinerary was great and thoughtfully organized so that the group packed a lot into their 9-day trip! And while they were there (and beforehand), I felt informed and comfortable that they were safe and having a blast. Highly recommend!
Unforgettable experience - I cannot stop thinking of good things to say about the food, the activities and everything that we did on this trip!
Great trip!
My daughter had an amazing time. Everything was very timely and organized. Very well put together.
The Galapagos was an amazing experience. I tell everyone, if you love animals this is the tour for you. I couldn't turn my head fast enough to see all of the animals. It was truly amazing how many animals there were to see at all times in the Galapagos. The untouched beauty of the place was unreal!!
Trip of a lifetime!
The trip was great!
Having a dedicated tour guide, along with someone working behind the scenes to ensure everything flowed flawlessly from one excursion to the next, truly elevated our experience. Their in-depth knowledge of the area brought each location to life, offering insights and stories we never would have discovered on our own. The entire journey felt seamless, engaging, and far more meaningful. I would highly recommend this experience to anyone looking to get the most out of their trip.
The trip was so much more than I expected! The people, food and restaurants were outstanding. I loved that we got to interact a lot with people in various communities and got the opportunity to explore the country. This is an experience I will never forget.
We had so many amazing adventures throughout our time in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. Miriam, Marlin, Edwin, and Edgar were fabulous guides. Memories for a lifetime!
The best of both worlds. Sea and nature—I can't describe in a few words how beautiful it is.
This was a good trip. I would highly suggest that they not plan any hikes or beach visits during midday because that’s when the sun is at its highest and it’s hot out. I would also suggest that people get a lot more time or an actual day to be able to get their souvenirs instead of prearranged areas where they are wanting us to buy souvenirs of which we don’t get much of a selection compared to other areas. Also, it would be very nice if the group chaperone wasn’t so rush, rush and rolling her eyes at people.
The islands are something that you can only read about for most people. This is an experience for all to see. Life changing in thinking about the environment and the world around us.
This is an incredible itinerary and seeing all islands with expert local guides made the experience truly remarkable.
Our guides were wonderful and very knowledgeable. The scenery and wildlife outstanding!
It was action packed and fun filled