Hiking Programs in Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

Seamester is the educational adventure of a lifetime! For more than 40 years, we have offered unparalleled educational voyages where students spend a semester at sea sailing between islands, countries, and even continents. We design our programs to provide engaging learning experiences with real outcomes in ways that are impossible to replicate in the traditional classroom. Living as part of a close-knit team on an ocean-going vessel, our students learn fundamental lessons beyond academics: teamwork, leadership, and personal responsibility. They receive academic credit from the University of South Florida, along with PADI scuba certifications and IYT sailing certifications. Our programs are designed to inspire students to realize that it’s the journey, not the destination, that matters the most.

On the Ecuador: Galapagos & Andean Service Adventure program, immerse yourself in a meaningful homestay with local families on mainland Ecuador. Participate in impactful community service and cultural exchange. Work alongside community members, as well as visiting and learning from an indigenous community. Then, explore the biodiverse and historic Galapagos Island. Snorkel with penguins, sea lions, marine iguanas, and colorful tropical fish. Learn about the conservation efforts of a unique ecosystem! Hike one of the largest volcanic craters on earth at Isabella Island. Visit and interact with a giant tortoise breeding center. Traveling to Ecuador is truly the adventure of a lifetime!

Track a tapir and Andean bears in a cloud forest. Study primates and rainforest ecology in the Amazon. Then get ready to explore the Galápagos, one of the most biologically diverse areas in the world, on this 20-day adventure for high school students 16 and up. Tropical ecosystems exhibit an amazing degree of biodiversity and species richness, and this program brings you into the heart of it all - the Andes Mountains, the Amazon Rainforest, and the Galápagos Islands. Conduct biological surveys while you track Andean mountain bears, jaguars, and the elusive tapir. Head into a remote part of the Amazon jungle where the world's most biodiverse region is right at your fingertips. Snorkel and explore the pristine islands of the Galápagos Archipelago, home to the widest array of flora and fauna on the planet. We are offering two sessions for 2026 (while space lasts): June 22 - July 11, 2026 July 13 - August 1, 2026

Visit the center of the earth! Ecuador’s capital is Quito, the closest major city to the Equator line on the planet! Immerse yourself in Ecuadorian culture and discover the country’s essence amidst its stunning landscapes. Whether you’re engaging in sustainable initiatives or connecting with locals, our travel programs provide impactful adventures in the heart of South America. Wild Galápagos Eco-Service: Come face-to-face with the wildlife that inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution on the Galápagos Islands. Join this adventure that combines wildlife conservation and cultural immersion, plus explore the breathtaking capital, Quito!

At Projects Abroad, we’re passionate about travel with a purpose. Since being founded in 1992, more than 130,000 volunteers have traveled to over 20 destinations around the world. Our programs will make you step out of your comfort zone and engage with your new friends from around the world. These are long-term projects, led by local people and aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. By taking part in our programs, even for a short time, you will be contributing towards a sustained effort to support the communities that host us! We believe no other provider offers the safety and security to their volunteers and interns that we do. You'll receive 24-hour staff support from our trained staff, alongside a gold standard of safety planning of your trip - so you don't have to worry about a thing. Choose a project you are passionate about from working with children to medical internship, conservation, and wildlife volunteering. We offer projects starting at one week in over 20 stunning destinations across Asia, Africa, Latin America & The Caribbean, South Pacific & Europe. Ready to make a difference? Follow the link to visit our website!

Discover the soul of South America on a 10-week journey through Peru and Ecuador that blends adventure, purpose, and connection. Hike through the Andes, explore the Amazon, and immerse yourself in rich Indigenous cultures and living traditions. This program goes beyond travel; you’ll engage in hands-on sustainability and community projects led by local partners, learning through experience, not from a classroom. Designed for gap year students, alternative study abroad seekers, and values-driven travelers, this journey offers leadership development, guided reflection, and deep cultural exchange. You'll build confidence, develop real-world skills, and gain clarity for your next steps all in a supportive, close-knit group of like-minded peers. Whether you're looking to grow personally, earn credit, build your resume, or simply see the world through a more intentional lens, this is more than a semester off—it’s a transformative step forward. Travel with purpose. Return inspired. Reach Out to Learn More!

Discover the unparalleled beauty of the Galápagos Islands on a luxury adventure designed for LGBTQ+ travelers seeking an extraordinary journey. Set sail on a boutique cruise that offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Explore the pristine ecosystems of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you’ll encounter giant tortoises, playful sea lions, and blue-footed boobies. Daily guided excursions will take you to volcanic landscapes, secluded beaches, and underwater realms alive with vibrant marine life. On board, you’ll enjoy fine dining, spacious suites, and a welcoming environment curated for inclusivity and comfort. Whether snorkeling through crystal-clear waters, hiking to breathtaking viewpoints, or unwinding on deck with a cocktail in hand, this program delivers a once-in-a-lifetime adventure where you can connect with nature and like-minded travelers in one of the world’s most unique destinations.