UNIQUE EXPERIENCES
BY GALÁPAGOS NATIVES
Join us in 2027!
Captain Walter & wife Amy on new Playa Cormoran tour in Isabela March 2026
Join us in 2027!
Captain Córdova's Founder Expedition II - June 2027
All-inclusive small-group Galápagos journeys personally hosted by the native Córdova family—offered only 1–2 times per year
10 spots opened 6/1/26--Our first founder-hosted expedition in March 2026 sold out and earned rave reviews from guests who described it as "magical," "magnificent," and "life-changing."
Created by Galápagos native Captain Walter Córdova and his wife Amy, this all-inclusive expedition combines the convenience of a cruise with the flexibility and authentic local connections only a land-based journey can provide.
Limited to just 10 guests, you'll travel across eight islands over 16 unforgettable days with three native hosts: Captain Walter, Amy, and their son Marvi Córdova—one of the Galápagos' most sought-after certified National Park guides with 18 years of experience. With an exceptional guest-to-native-host ratio of approximately 3:1, you'll enjoy personalized attention, deeper local connections, and access to experiences few visitors ever encounter.
EXPERIENCES
Cruise Selection Service
At no extra cost to you, we send you a compare of the top cruise yachts that fit your group & budget to see the untouched parts of Galapagos much like Charles Darwin did in 1835 that inspired his theory of evolution. Tell us your dream endemic species to see & we’ll find the best island itineraries in your season of travel. Captain Walter selects yachts for you based on reputation for service and safety. We also help guests find specialty cruises such as sportfishing, SCUBA and day yacht tours.
Land-Based Custom Trips
Your dream trip designed by our 4-generation Galapagos native family around your group’s passions, interests and budget. Our tours feature certified naturalist guides and local family-owned tour operator partners we know & trust. Our own son, Marvi Cordova, who is one of the most sought-after guides on the islands after 18+ years, is available upon request to act as your Expedition Leader throughout your trip to customize on the fly as he gets to know your group.
Founder-Led Expeditions
Unique all-inclusive small-group Galápagos journeys personally hosted by our founders limited times per year. Captain Walter Cordova, his wife Amy and certified guide son, Marvi all join a group of 10-12 guests on this innovative land-based tour where not only is all transport & tours are included starting at the Quito airport, but also all lodging and even most of the meals are included. See rave Google reviews from our inaugural March 2026 expedition. GLT’s Founder Expedition II now booking for June 2027 or you may request your group's dates.
Why choose us?
Authentic journeys start with local hosts
The founders of Galápagos Local Tours have over 100 years of experience in Galápagos.
We have family, friends & partners working across Galápagos in all sectors from tourism to government & non-profits giving us up-to-minute insider knowledge to create "how the natives would do it" custom tour experience.
ABOUT US
Guest Stories
So, let me preface this by saying that I travel *a lot*. I have been to 42 countries...If you are thinking about that bucket list trip to the Galapagos, trust Amy and Galapagos Local Tours LLC to ensure it lives up to your dream.
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Carrie U., Michigan, USA
As a very busy professional in the zoo industry, I was searching for a way to give my students a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Thanks to the incredible expertise of Amy and Walter, that dream became a reality not once, but three times! If you’re looking for a team that delivers unmatched professionalism, care, and passion, look no further than Galapagos Local Tours LLC. They have my highest recommendation!
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Aimee Johns, Former Program Director, Lincoln Children’s Zoo, USA
The customer service was exceptional. If you’re planning a trip to the Galapagos Islands, I highly recommend Galapagos Local Tours. They know the islands inside and out and will create a personalized itinerary that matches your interests, all while making sure you have an unforgettable experience. Thank you, Amy, for helping us create memories we will cherish for a lifetime!
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Melanie S. Illinois, USA
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