GALAPAGOS
ISLAND HOPPING ADVENTURE
WITH AMBER KARNES
Picture this: turquoise seas, a whole cast of islands, sea lions surfacing from beneath the waves, and you diving into it all alongside a group of fearless, like-minded women. This WHOA plus adventure with the incredible Amber Karnes brings you into the heart of the Galapagos, where every moment feels immersive and unforgettable! From snorkeling at Kicker Rock to wandering the beaches of Tortuga Bay to hiking volcanic terrain and spotting giant tortoises, the islands deliver one awe-filled experience after another. Designed for curvy and courageous adventurers, this trip creates a supportive, body-positive space to explore the world with confidence. Sharing the journey with like-bodied women adds a depth and ease that elevates the whole experience. Come meet sea turtles, soak in sunsets, challenge yourself, and walk away with memories and friendships that will last a lifetime. Keep scrolling and get ready to get wild!
BOOK NOW
NOV 2 - 10
2026
$5,600
2026
$5,600
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We plan our adventures with most of the logistics taken care of, so you can focus on swimming with sea lions, and being your best adventure self! Here’s what’s included on this Galapagos Adventure.
INCLUDED
All accommodation as described in the itinerary (double occupancy)
Airport pickup in Quito (if arriving on adventure start day)
Round trip flights between Quito and the Galapagos
All activities, like snorkeling, surf lessons and hikes, as described in the itinerary
Snorkeling equipment (snorkel, mask, fins, and life vest)
All the fresh + local meals described as included in the itinerary
Transit Control Card
All necessary water taxis and ferries to and from scheduled activities and between the islands as described in the itinerary
Entrance fee for the Galapagos National Park: $200 per adult*
Passionate, local naturalist guides on every excursion to explain the abundant flora and fauna
Activity guides and boat captains for all water-based activities
Experienced hiking guides for day hikes
Tips for our incredible local guides
Local Ecuadorian trip host throughout the whole adventure
Passionate trip leader (aka Amber!) to make sure you feel mentally and physically prepared leading up to and during your adventure
All the awesomeness listed as included on the daily breakdown of the itinerary...plus tons of WHOA TLC!
1% for the planet, as in 1% of what you pay goes towards grassroots environmental groups making a difference in their local communities
Offsetting of this trip’s negative impact on the environment and carbon footprint, from the transportation to lodging to meals**
NOT INCLUDEDFood and drinks that are not mentioned in the itinerary
Wetsuit rental (optional for snorkeling)
Add-on excursions and activities
Travel Insurance (mandatory)
Personal expenses and souvenirs
Airport pick-up if outside the standard pickup day/time
*National Park fees are subject to change
**We do our best to crunch the numbers and accurately calculate the carbon footprint the best we can with the information that we have. It’s not a perfect system and carbon offsetting isn’t an exact science, but we believe it’s more important to take action now, in every way that we can. At the moment, we don’t include the international airfare to the destination in these calculations, as we are not responsible for the bookings and it’s beyond our scope. Flights are the largest carbon emitter of most of our adventures, so we encourage all our adventures to consider doing it independently through the airline or with our partners at Sustainable Travel International. All our offsetting programs are certified by STI.
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Putting down a $1000 deposit will reserve your spot on this WHOA plus Adventure! You’ll be invoiced and must pay in full at least 3 months before your adventure starts. All deposits are non-refundable. All prices are listed in USD.
HIGHLIGHTS
Exploring three biodiverse and unique islands of the Galápagos archipelago by boat and land
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Snorkeling with turtles and sea lions at the world famous Kicker Rock
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Learning to surf in the turquoise waters and white sand beaches of Tortuga Bay
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Hiking to the rim of the Sierra Negra volcano
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Visiting the highlands of Santa Cruz and participating in a reforestation project
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Experiencing the support, safety and sustainability that makes adventuring with WHOA plus and other liked-bodied women so special
MEET YOUR HOST
AMBER KARNES
Amber Karnes is an artist, teacher, and community builder who's obsessed with helping people lean into their power and take up more space in their own lives. She hosts one-of-a-kind adventure travel retreats where daring women explore body image through travel, creativity, and bold connection with nature. Amber also leads peer mentorship experiences for solo business owners who want to learn effective marketing without social media. She is the creator of Body Positive Yoga and the co-founder of the Accessible Yoga School. Her newest projects include a surfing retreat for complete beginners and an online community for women who are unlearning impostor syndrome. She lives in Las Vegas and you can find her at amberkarnes.com.Whether you’re a new or experienced adventurer, this journey will captivate you and leave you in awe. The days are full of marine life, legendary views, ever-changing landscapes, and, most importantly, amazing people. Please read the Daily Breakdown for the full scoop and what to expect on this once in a lifetime adventure.
WHAT TO EXPECT
November is one of the best times to experience the Galápagos. The cool, dry season is beginning to give way to warmer days, and the seas are typically calm, which makes island hopping smooth and stunning. Temperatures hover in the high 60s to low 80s, and the equatorial sun is strong, so bring reef-safe SPF and plan to reapply often. Wildlife is incredibly active this time of year, moving through the islands like you’re simply part of the landscape. It’s a beautiful reminder to hydrate more than feels normal and move at nature’s pace.
This WHOA Adventure is active and hands-on, and we will be hiking volcanic terrain, snorkeling in clear waters, learning to surf, and catching early morning departures to make the most of calm seas and prime wildlife hours. If you are rusty in the water, get in a few swims before the trip so you feel confident and can soak in every moment. Wi-fi and cell service can be spotty, so expect to unplug and lean into the slower rhythm of the islands. Local culture is rooted in conservation and deep respect, which means we follow the lead of the wildlife, give space, and stay flexible when tides, weather, or nature shift the plan. If you have any prep questions or want guidance on training, just reach out because we are here!
“I don’t know if this is a big surprise, but there’s so many things that we don’t have to worry about on this trip, and that’s super helpful. Being with the WHOA plus group, some of us are fighting some huge body anxieties, so to not have to deal with transportation, food, or any form of reservation, is lovely…
KAROLE
“There are not many tours for plus sized women and I have found a lot of trekking tours are all about the destination and not the journey. I felt like this was more about discovering yourself and about building friendships. I have never been in a group tour where the support has been so amazing and the other people so uplifting! The mountain got in my bones and I really feel like it has changed my life for the better, and I have made lifelong friends.”
ALANNA
“I felt really in my element and empowered to jump feet first (literally and figuratively) into every new experience. That surprised me - like maybe I'm tougher than I give myself credit for? Every WHOA trip has genuinely changed my life and taught me so much about myself and the world, and I wouldn't be who I am without these adventures. Understand that even though you're doing new things and it seems scary, this is a controlled environment with lots of people looking out for you who want you to succeed…Do it scared.
KAT
THE ULTIMATE PLUS SIZE
GALAPAGOS PACKING LIST
From the best hiking boots to our favorite daypacks and sun shirts, here’s all the best gear you’ll need island hopping in the Galapagos!
GET IN TOUCH
ITINERARY
DAY 1
QUITO
Arrive at the Quito Airport (UIO)* where a WHOA rep will be waiting to welcome you with a smile and whisk you off to our hotel. You’re landing at a higher altitude than you might be used to at 9,350 ft (2,850 m), so even though we will not be on the mainland for long, give yourself permission to slow down, sip some water, and let your body catch up. Tonight we will gather for a cozy, authentic Ecuadorian dinner and meet our guides for a rundown of everything that makes this Galapagos adventure so special. It is the perfect chance to settle in, shake off travel day, and start getting excited for what is ahead!
Included Meals: Bienvenida Dinner
Stay: Hacienda Jimenita or similar
*Please arrive by 2PM this day. We also recommend coming in a day early, if possible, in case of any flight interruptions.
DAY 2
Quito to Isla de San Cristóbal
CEVICHE MAKING + YOGA SESSION
This morning we’ll leave Quito and fly straight into the magic of the Galapagos! Our first stop is San Cristóbal, where we’ll jump right into island life with a hands-on ceviche cooking class. It’s the perfect way to meet the flavors of the archipelago and learn from the legendary Doña Barbara herself. She started out selling her famous ceviche from a humble food cart, and it became so loved that people begged her to teach them how to make it. After enjoying the freshest lunch imaginable, we’ll settle into our new surroundings with a centering yoga session that helps you ground, breathe, and connect with our new and stunning surroundings. In the evening, we’ll come together for dinner and watch the sunset do what it does best out here: absolutely take your breath away.
Flight Time: 2 hours
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Stay: Casa Opuntia or similar
*All times and distances are approximate and subject to change based on conditions!
DAY 3
Isla de San Cristóbal
SNORKEL KICKER ROCK
Today we’ll board our boat and head straight for Kicker Rock, one of the most iconic and otherworldly spots in all of the Galapagos. This is where you get to unleash your inner mermaid and slip into an underwater world that feels like a dream. The towering volcanic walls and narrow channel between them create a haven for marine life, and snorkeling here is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Think graceful sea turtles gliding past, curious sea lions zipping around, schools of fish swirling like confetti, and, if the ocean feels generous, Galapagos sharks and hammerheads cruising through the blue below you. After this unforgettable swim, we’ll head back to the hotel for a little downtime, and your evening is free to explore town, grab dinner, and soak up island life at your own pace.
Boat Time: 4 hours+
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Stay: Casa Opuntia or similar
DAY 4
Isla de San Cristóbal to Isla Santa Cruz
TORUGA BAY SURF LESSON
This morning we’ll hop a speedboat to Santa Cruz, easing our way into one of the most vibrant hubs in the archipelago! Once we hit Puerto Ayora, we’re off to Tortuga Bay — a stretch of blinding-white sand and glassy turquoise water that feels almost unreal in person. This coastline is wild in the best way: black-lava rock meeting powdery sand, cactus forests rising behind you, and turquoise rolling waves. As we wander the beach, keep an eye out for the marine iguanas, the only sea-swimming lizards on Earth! They look prehistoric as they sprawl across the sun-warmed rocks, absorbing heat before their next dive. Then the adventure ramps up: take a surf lesson, snorkel the calm shallows, or just sink into the rhythm of one of the most pristine beaches on the planet. Afterward, we’ll head back to town and you’ll have the evening free to explore on your own.
Boat Time: 2 hours
Included Meals: Breakfast
Stay: Hotel La Isla or similar
DAY 5
Isla Santa Cruz to Isla Isabela
VISIT GIANT TORTOISES
Today we’ll head into the lush highlands of Santa Cruz, where the landscape shifts from coastal cactus to cool, misty forest, and spend time with the true elders of the Galápagos, the giant tortoises that routinely surpass 100 years and can weigh nearly 500 pounds! We’ll walk among these slow-moving icons in their natural habitat while contributing to a reforestation project that protects the ecosystem they depend on. We’ll also explore ancient lava tunnels created by volcanic flows thousands of years ago before settling in for a relaxed lunch. On the way back through the countryside, we’ll visit a local family farm to learn how sugar cane juice is traditionally pressed using simple, time-tested methods. In the afternoon, we’ll hop a speedboat to the neighboring island of Isabela, the largest and one of the most geologically active islands in the archipelago, and you’ll have time to settle in and soak up those golden pre-sunset vibes.
Boat Time: 2.5 hours
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Stay: Cormorant Beach House or similar
DAY 6
Isla Isabela
HIKE SIERRA NEGRA VOLCANO
Today we’ll head to Sierra Negra, one of the most active volcanoes in the Galapagos and home to one of the largest calderas in the world. Our hike follows a wide, forested path with volcanic gravel underfoot and views that shift as we climb. At the top, we’ll reach a lookout where we can peer directly into the massive caldera and see the island’s volcanic history laid out in front of us! After completing our 3-mile round-trip hike, we’ll make our way to Campo Duro, a locally owned tortoise reserve that also operates as a simple eco-focused restaurant and orchard. We’ll sit down for a grilled lunch made with ingredients grown on the property and learn how the family blends conservation, community, and tourism to protect this part of Isabela.
Hike Distance: 3 miles
Hike Time: 3 hours
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Stay: Cormorant Beach House or similar
DAY 7
Isla Isabela
SNORKEL LOS TÚNELES
Today ranks among our favorite Galápagos days as we head to Los Túneles for some of the best snorkeling on Earth! Formed by ancient lava flows that cooled, cracked, and collapsed into arches and tunnels, this area feels almost unreal, creating a natural maze of volcanic bridges above and below the surface. These structures protect an incredible variety of marine life, from white-tip reef sharks resting in sandy pockets to sea turtles drifting through channels carved thousands of years ago. The water is shallow, calm, and crystal clear, giving you front-row views of fish weaving through the tunnels, rays cruising along the bottom, and blue-footed boobies perched on the black lava above. It’s the kind of place where you stop feeling like a snorkeler and start feeling like you’ve slipped straight into a nature documentary.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Snack
Stay: Cormorant Beach House or similar
DAY 8
Isla Isabela to Santa Cruz
CHOOSE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE
Today we’ll hop on our boat and cruise from Isabela back to Santa Cruz, where the whole day is yours to explore and chase whatever adventure calls your name. You can wander through the Charles Darwin Research Station to see giant tortoise conservation in action, swing by the iconic Fish Market to watch pelicans and sea lions “help” the vendors, or trek out to Las Grietas* for a swim in a volcanic fissure filled with impossibly clear water. We’ll wrap it all up with a big Celebration Dinner and toast to the wild, unforgettable days we shared in the Galapagos.
Boat Time: 2.5 hours
Included Meals: Breakfast, Celebration Dinner
Stay: Hotel La Isla or similar
*This is a choose your own adventure day with no group activities planned, so entrances and ticket to any of the attractions are not included.
DAY 9
Isla Santa Cruz to Quito
ADIOS AMIGAS
We'll wake up bright and early to grab breakfast and catch our flight back to the mainland. If you’re catching a flight home this evening, please book it AFTER 8 PM to allow enough time to get from the islands to Quito. Now it’s time to say our “sea you laters!” and start planning our next epic adventure together!
Flight Time: 2 hours
Included Meals: Breakfast
PHOTO GALLERY
Itinerary subject to change based on availability and unforeseen conditions, but that's part of the adventure! Even when things change, trust you'll be well taken care of with WHOA quality, professionalism, and TLC!
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It’s of the utmost importance to us that any giving back we do is sustainable and fills a need that is of value to our partners. For that reason, our visits and partnerships can and do vary depending on the season, the organization's needs, and the abilities and desires of our group. Bottom line, in each case, we do our best to seek out local partners that are doing great, sustainable work, and we work closely with them to understand their needs to create an experience that will truly be of value to them and you!