Our trip to Galapagos was really very overdue, but it was well worth the wait. The experience was exceptional to say the least. Pete and Renee worked so hard to ensure we all had the best possible experience. The groundwork logistics were challenging before the trip started but our replacement vessel, sourced only a couple of days before our trip was due to depart, was superb. Our land and sea excursions were amazing. Many thanks to Pete, Renee and also Colette our excellent National Park guide. We would definitely recommend POE and hope to travel with them again.

The destination was suggested by my spouse. Usually I organize and plan our vacations and prefer independent travel. However, being led by Pete & Renee assisted by Colette (National Park Guide), I must admit was an incredible travel experience. I reviewed the planned itinerary and related information but nothing prepared me for what we saw, felt, learned, and enjoyed. I had never felt comfortable in the water but I took advantage of every snorkel and hiking opportunity offered to us.
Pete & Renee care for the environment and all the species and are willing to share them with their clients. We were fortunate to have had them share their fervor and passion for nature with us.

What an adventure! We were a VERY mixed group ranging in age from 80-10, with different energy levels, experience in the water, and attention spans--but Pete and Renee managed to keep us all happy, engaged, entertained, and safe. They pushed us to see and experience as much Galapagos as we could possibly pack into a week, yet they were also flexible and understanding when various family members needed a break. The thing I loved most, having guides like Pete and Renee (and Colette, our superb local guide), was not only their extensive knowledge of the area and the creatures that live there, but also the infectious joy and wonder--and fun--they brought to the experience. They must have seen every creature and phenomenon we encountered dozens or hundreds of times before, but they were as excited to share them with us as we were to see them for the first time. We came home exhausted and full of stories and wonder and new knowledge.

A bespoke and responsive trip. An incredible experience!
We saw and did so much in a week, maximising the day with early starts to be first on the islands and ending with glorious sunsets. Reaching the islands from our beautiful boat by panga, we snorkeled and explored by foot. Stepping around iguanas, snorkeling with hammerhead sharks, swimming with penguins and sea lions, watching in wonder the turtles in the mangrove swamps, spending time with the giant tortoises and learning about their restoration initiative. It was incredible to be so close to nesting boobies and other native birds which were seemingly undisturbed by us. As well as the unique Galapagos flora and fauna, I found the geology fascinating and the local cuisine delicious!
It was good to be traveling with an organization which felt in tune with, and has genuine concern and respect for, the Galapagos National Park. Pete’s knowledge is phenomenal, built over years of living in Ecuador, in Galapagos and as a guide and wildlife photographer. Adding a different and unique dimension to that of our local guide. He has a great mix of knowledge and passion for the natural world whilst having an immense sense of fun and enjoyment of people. His sense of wonder and excitement at seeing flamingos return to one of the islands was infectious!

Pete and Renee are amazing tour leaders with an abundance of knowledge on flora and fauna, with a great sense of humor to boot! Would absolutely recommend traveling with them and hope to do it again soon myself!