We’d Love To Tell You Our Story.
We started Galapagos AlterNATIVE as a way to allow people from abroad to experience the Galapagos Islands through the eyes of a couple locals.
At Galapagos AlterNATIVE, we believe that we have a truly unique perspective to offer our guests in the Galapagos because of our ability to bridge the gap between tourists and locals. The people of the Galapagos Islands are some of its greatest treasures and we hope to introduce you to them as our guests.
Galapagos AlterNATIVE specializes in arranging tours for travelers who would prefer to be free to experience the Galapagos Islands at their own pace, and not be limited onboard a cruise ship. Sleeping onshore allows you to support local businesses and experience the local culture and nightlife. Being land-based also allows for flexibility and independence with your travels.
We are based in Puerto Ayora on the island of Santa Cruz. Our centralized location allows for easy transport between the mainland of Ecuador and many islands of the Galapagos. Each island offers unique opportunities. Some are available only on day trips by boat, while others offer a variety of accommodations for a multi-day visit. All of the hoteliers that we work with maintain clean, friendly, and well-staffed properties and we can provide lodging options according to your budget and preferences. We are able to organize every aspect of your Galapagos Experience including help in choosing flights from the mainland and arranging inter-island transfers by air or by sea.
We find it deeply gratifying to support local businesses and restaurants while introducing our guests to all our favorite places. Because you’ll have access to the restaurants, lodging and transportation providers that we’ve come to know and trust, you can be assured that your trip will be filled with good food, lovely accommodations, and great new friends at the most reasonable prices around. We find it a great honor and privilege to be in a position to reveal the true Galapagos Islands to our guests. Let us show you the islands we love from the inside.
We'd like to welcome you to our home, the Galapagos Islands.
We look forward to treating you like family, showing you our favorite places, and ensuring that you have the experience of a lifetime in our amazing, beautiful and unique Galapagos Islands!
Javier Moreno Javier’s family has a rich history in the Galapagos Islands with members integrated in to many areas of the Galapagos. Javier developed his comprehensive understanding and expertise of the islands as a Galapagos Islands resident. He deeply appreciates and respects the ecology and geology of the Galapagos islands. Javier worked for years in the Galapagos Marine Reserve as a PADI certified Dive Master and guide. He prides himself on being able to select quality naturalists to be your guides, and tour boat operators that share the company’s ethos of responsible practices.
Jill was born in the United States and first came to the Galapagos Islands as a volunteer teacher (for 3 months) over a decade ago. Her special connection with the islands and especially the communities is what compels her to share these transformative experiences with travelers. Sustainable and conscientious travel is her way of life and Jill dedicates much of her time to local social causes and World Schooling with her daughters.
Lauren is one of our Galapagos AlterNATIVE Itinerary Specialists. She lived in the Galapagos Islands while working on her Master’s Degree and is extremely knowledgeable about all of our tours, activities and accommodation options. She is ready to work with you directly to develop the ideal itinerary for your Galapagos tour.