Once upon a time

Galakiwi was formed in 2005 by two Kiwis (New Zealanders) who loved adventure and travel.  The pair grew up together in neighboring towns deep in the south island of New Zealand.  In 2001, six years after going their separate ways to explore the world, they had a chance encounter on the equatorial line in the 2nd highest capital city in the world, Quito, Ecuador.  

Nick had been guiding and living in Quito for several years and had just started his own travel company.  Tim had been traveling through South America and was on a mission to learn Spanish in the most remote area possible.  That mission led him to the Galapagos Islands where Tim began volunteering as an English teacher.  It didn't take long to fall in the love with the natural beauty and unparalleled wildlife of the Enchanted Islands.

In early 2004, a fellow volunteer had an idea to offer land based tours as a less expensive and more accessible option for cash strapped volunteers to visit the islands.  That was all the inspiration Tim & Nick needed.  GALAKIWI was formed the following year as one of the first land based tour operators in the Galapagos. 

As it turned out, lots of people were looking for a way to experience the islands with their feet on the ground.  Galakiwi has pioneered the multi-activity, land based style of travel in the Galapagos Islands and is now involved with some of the most recognized tour companies in the world.

We've grown over the years, but the heart of the company remains the same: to offer people an affordable and quality land based adventure to one the most amazing places on the planet.