The End of an Era
June 18, 2026
Hello Moondance Families!!
After an early morning wake-up call, we braved a very adventurous ferry ride. Despite the pouring rain, spirits stayed high as Michael and Jacob boldly took on the top deck during the rocky crossing! Later in the day, we snorkeled off of the island and explored the town. One of the highlights was watching the Ecuador vs. Ivory Coast soccer match with locals in the park, a truly special cultural experience with everyone being so inviting to our group. Lauren and AP made some new local friends and ended up completely covered in paint while playing games together, which was so much fun to watch! We wrapped up the evening with a delicious beachfront dinner. What started as a rainy and rocky day turned into one of our favorites yet!
The next day, we spent the morning hiking a volcano!! While the fog kept us from seeing the famous views, the experience of hiking across one of the world’s largest volcanic craters was still incredibly memorable and special on its own. Hibbs practically glided up the mountain and made the hike look easy! The afternoon was filled with pool time, beach time, and exploring town. Rowan and SJ made it their mission to find a jewelry store, but after coming up empty-handed, they happily settled for some delicious pastries instead. We ended the day with a soccer match against local players. May, MB, and SJ absolutely crushed it on the field, and Bennett earned MVP for the guys’ game. Dinner was a hit as well, with the pesto pasta quickly becoming the crowd favorite out ranking almost any other meal we’ve had on this trip.
After a good night of rest after our soccer matches, we finally got our first full sunny day on the island, and it could not have come at a better time for surfing! Kate, Charlie, and Austin were complete naturals on their boards and had an awesome time out on the water, riding every wave with confidence and ease. After a great lunch at a local shawarma spot, we made our way back for our final evening in the beautiful Galápagos. We celebrated with a major Moondance tradition, a banquet dinner, and we did it at an amazing sushi restaurant and surprised AP with an early birthday cake, which she had absolutely no idea was coming. The look on her face was one for the books, and we loved being able to share all of the joy of our trip while also celebrating AP. The night ended with one final Moonup led by Blythe and Stokes. It was a special opportunity to reflect on the trip and everything this group had experienced together. We are so proud of this crew and grateful for the memories we’ve made with them.
Today, we made our way back to mainland Ecuador and were able to enjoyed our final moments together during a long layover before everyone parts ways and heads to their respective homes. As leaders, we feel incredibly grateful and honored to have spent the past two weeks with this group. They embraced every challenge, supported one another, stepped outside their comfort zones, and made the most of every opportunity. We cannot wait to see what each of them accomplishes in the years ahead. This is a truly special group of young people, and we know they are going to do big things!
Signing off EGP 1A, we miss you already!
Exploring the Islands!
June 15, 2026
Day 6: Yay, Galápagos!!!
After months of anticipation, we finally made it to the Galápagos! We arrived on San Cristóbal Island and were greeted by our wonderful guide, Fabo, who immediately won us over by treating us to the best pizza we’ve had yet on the trip. It was the perfect welcome after a long travel day.
After getting settled in, we wasted no time jumping into our first Galápagos adventure. We headed straight to La Lobería for our first snorkeling excursion, and it did not disappoint. The water was crystal clear, and we were greeted by SO many sea lions. They swam circles around us, darted through the water, and seemed just as curious about us as we were about them. We also spotted several sea turtles gracefully gliding below us, making for an unforgettable first snorkel.
Hibbs showed off his deep-diving skills and impressed everyone with how effortlessly he could disappear beneath the surface. May and Bennett were our LODs (Leaders of the Day) and did a fantastic job helping keep our group organized and ready for every adventure. It was the perfect first day in the Galápagos and left us even more excited for what was to come.
Day 7: Sea Lions, Sushi, and a Cooking Class
Today was packed from start to finish! We spent most of the day exploring Isla Lobos by boat, which meant plenty of sunshine, incredible scenery, and endless boat snacks. We snorkeled with more playful sea lions and continued to be amazed by the wildlife around every corner.
We also stopped at another island where we got some time to relax, swim, and play games! Between the swimming, games, and beautiful surroundings, nobody was in a hurry to leave.
For lunch, we may have found the best sushi restaurant in the Galápagos. The meal was a huge hit and gave everyone the fuel they needed for the rest of the day.
Later, we hiked to Tijeretas, where we were rewarded with incredible views and another snorkeling opportunity. This snorkel may have been our best one yet. We saw more wildlife than ever before, and it felt like every time we looked underwater, there was something new to discover. The Galápagos continues to surprise us with how alive and vibrant its waters are.
That evening, we participated in a cooking class with local community members, which ended up being one of the most memorable experiences of the trip. AP and Lauren prepared ceviche, Charlie squeezed what felt like over a hundred oranges for fresh juice, Austin took charge of cooking the chicken, Kate and Rowan worked together to prepare and knead the rice, Bennett chopped vegetables, and Michael and Jacob cooked up delicious plantain chips.
Not only was the food amazing, but it was also a special opportunity to spend time with locals, learn more about Ecuadorian culture, and experience everyday life in the Galápagos. We finished the night with ice cream, which felt like the perfect ending to a fantastic day.
Day 8: Farm Project and Our First Ferry Adventure
This morning we visited a local eco-farm conservation project and got a firsthand look at sustainable farming practices on the islands. The farm quickly became a group favorite.
We spent the morning picking fresh limes, helping with composting projects, and getting to know some of the farm’s cutest residents…baby chicks and goats. The animals were definitely a highlight! We also helped prepare our lunch, which turned out to be some of the BEST chicken we’ve ever had.
After saying goodbye to the farm, it was time for our first ferry ride to Santa Cruz. Calling it an “adventure” might be an understatement, but we all made it across together and arrived safely on our second island.
Once we reached Santa Cruz, we were welcomed to the Red Booby and had some time to relax by the pool. After a busy day, it was nice to unwind before heading into town for dinner. As an added bonus, we got to watch the USA play in the World Cup while we ate, making the evening even more memorable.
Day 9: Giant Tortoises and Tortuga Bay
Today was all about exploring some of the Galápagos’ most iconic sights.
In the morning, we visited a giant tortoise reserve and got to see these incredible animals up close in their natural habitat. Seeing the giant tortoises that the Galápagos is famous for was a surreal experience and definitely a highlight for many of us.
In the afternoon, we headed to Tortuga Bay. The walk there definitely helped us get our steps in, but every step was worth it. When we finally arrived, we were greeted by one of the most beautiful beaches we’ve ever seen. Between the white sand, turquoise water, and stunning scenery, it felt like something straight out of a postcard.
That evening, we enjoyed dinner at TJ’s before spending time exploring the shops around town. Santa Cruz has officially earned the title of best island for souvenir shopping. There were plenty of successful purchases, but perhaps none more memorable than MB and SJ finding matching Galápagos nightgowns. Safe to say those may end up being some of the most iconic souvenirs of the entire trip.
Over the past four days, we’ve snorkeled with sea lions, spotted sea turtles, learned from local community members, visited farms, explored new islands, met giant tortoises, and made countless memories together. Every day in the Galápagos seems to bring something completely different, and we can’t wait to see what adventures await us next!
SJ – thank you so much for letting me go on moondance because i have met some of the best people and explored out of my comfort zone
MB- hey mom and dad!! thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to go on this trip, i have learned so much and im so grateful that im able to learn about different parts of the world!!
May- hey mom and dad! thank you so much for letting me go on this trip and im so thankful for this opportunity. i love yall!
Rowan- hey mom and dad!! thank you sooo much for allowing me to come on moondance. the experience has been amazing and truly life changing. i am so grateful for yall. love you guys and see you soon!!
Lauren- hey mom and dad! Thank you so much for letting me go on this moondance trip. It has been such an amazing experience and I wouldn’t trade it for anything! So excited to tell you all about it and catch up with you guys! I love you!!
AP- Hi mom and dad! Thanks so much for giving me this opportunity to see the world and make new memories with new friends! ALSO HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!!!! AND HAPPY LATE BIRTHDAY JOJO!! I hope yall celebrated all dayong and had the best time at home! I love and miss you guys so much! See you soon!
Kate – hi mom, dad, and mads!! thank you so so much for sending me on moondance and giving me so many amazing opportunities. it has been the best trip ever and i am so sad to go home but so excited to see y’all. i miss y’all and love youuu!!
Austin – Hi mom and dad thank yall so much for sending me here. I’m having such a great time and can’t wait to see yall.
Bennett – Buen Dia de Los Galapagos, Gracias for sending me on Moondance it has been so fun. See yall when I get home.
Jacob – Mom and dad,Thank you so much for sending me on this Moondance trip; it has been an incredible time. Both the Galapagos and Ecuador has been great, and I had met a lot of awesome people. I’m feel incredibly grateful that i have this opportunity, and lucky that I was able to do this. I love you both so much, and I will see you in a couple of days.
Hibbs – Hi mom and dad. Thank yall so much for giving me the opportunity to come here. I’ve had an amazing time and can’t wait to see yall again.
Charlie – Hey Mom and Dad. Thank yall so much for sending me on Moondance. I’ve had the best time and I feel very lucky to have an opportunity like this. I can’t wait to see yall, but at the same time I don’t want to leave. Love yall!
Michael – Hi father hi mother i just wanted to thank you for letting me go on this trip i’m having so much fun everybody has been great i just wanted to say thank you and can’t wait to see yall.
Ecstatic To Be In Ecuador!
June 12, 2026
Day 1
After a long travel day, EGP 1A officially landed in Ecuador! We fueled up with Chester’s pizza, got to know each other through Two Truths and a Lie, and wrapped up the night with our very first Moonup! The excitement was high as we settled in and prepared for the adventure ahead!
Day 2
We kicked off our first full day with a morning huddle led by our LODs, Rowan and Austin, who got everyone excited for the day ahead. We spent the day exploring Quito, tasting authentic Ecuadorian chocolate, and taking in incredible views overlooking the city! After a delicious lunch, we headed to the Middle of the World…the Equator!
The afternoon was full of fun challenges and experiments, as we learned about life on the equator. We tested our balance, stood with one foot in each hemisphere, and watched our resident egg-balancing experts, SJ, AP, Rowan, Kate, May, and Michael successfully balance eggs on nails right on the equator line!
We wrapped up the day with dinner at a wonderful restaurant and plenty of laughs along the way!
Day 3
Today, we went horseback ride through the Ecuadorian highlands, surrounded by sweeping views and towering mountains! AP quickly earned the title of horse whisperer, while Charlie’s horse preferred snack breaks over speed, making for plenty of laughs along the trail. At the top of our ride, we enjoyed warm mint tea with our guides, while taking in some incredible scenery before descending back down. After lunch, we made our way toward Baños. The drive from the mountains into the rainforest as the sun set was beautiful. That evening, Jacob and SJ led an awesome Moonup, where we shared some of the best advice we’ve ever received before finishing with a competitive game of Green Glass Door!
Day 4
Austin’s birthday!
We started the morning by surprising him with birthday notes, a Snickers bar, and a full-group surprise wake-up singing “Happy Birthday” before heading out for a day full of adventure! From riding a cable car over a waterfall to hiking, crossing a glass bridge, and swinging high above the mountains, there was no shortage of excitement. We spent the afternoon playing basketball and soccer in the park. MB brought the energy on the basketball court, while May absolutely dominated on the soccer field! The celebrations continued that evening with a surprise birthday piñata, a salsa dancing class, and an amazing home-cooked meal. After a fierce competition, Hibbs and Lauren were crowned Salsa King and Queen! We had a dance party after dinner that lasted hours! There was lots of laughter and celebration! Such an awesome day.
Day 5
We wrapped up our time in Baños with a day full of adventure! The morning started with zip lining across a river canyon, and Kate set the tone by bravely volunteering to go first! The cheers could be heard from both sides of the canyon! Next up was rock climbing, where Michael raced up the wall like a champ. The energy stayed high all day as everyone continued pushing themselves and cheering each other on. After one last scenic drive, we made our way back to Tababela and enjoyed dinner. Bennett kept the whole group laughing with his spot-on Mr. Cooper impression, as we packed our bags and got ready for the next chapter of our adventure! Tomorrow, we head to the Galápagos Islands!
The excitement is building, and EGP 1A can’t wait to see what awaits us next!
Shoutouts:
Hi Mom and Dad! I’m loving it here in Ecuador! I am so thankful for this experience and opportunity you’ve given me to make new friends, try new things, and also new foods! I’ve been expanding my palate. Get excited. I’m having so much fun with my group and have made so many great memories. I’ll make sure to take lots of pics! My favorite thing we’ve done so far has been SALSA! I am not much of a dancer, as you know, but I was amazing. I’m so excited to celebrate my birthday here surrounded with such amazing people. I love and miss you guys so much. Love, Anna
Hey Mama & Dad!I am having SOO much fun here. My group is awesome, and we have laughed so much. I get to use my Spanish skills here when talking to locals. How’s Bunny? Is she still crazy? It’s so beautiful here. Our time in Quito was amazing and our Galápagos trip will be too. I can’t wait to tell you about everything! I love and miss y’all! Love, MB
Hey Mom and Dad! Right now, we are currently on a plane to Galápagos, yay! The group is super fun and sweet. Plus, Blythe and Stokes are great leaders. In Ecuador we did a ton of stuff like zip lining, horseback riding in the mountains with ponchos and chaps, salsa dancing (so so fun), and so much more. Plus, every meal has chicken. They have this policy called “litmo” (live in the moment) so at any moment we don’t know what is next or what time it is, which is so cool. Overall, it has been so fun and I will definitely come back with more stories for you. Love you to Ecuador and back, Lauren
Dear Mom, Dad, & Mads, hi!! We are on the plane to the Galápagos, and I am so excited! So far we have done a tour of Quito, chocolate tasting, stood on the equator, zip lining, salsa dancing (best night so far), and have eaten a lot of good food. My leaders are great, and I love my group. I am so excited to be at the beach and in the ocean. We also went horseback riding in the mountains and got close to a bunch of volcanoes. I miss y’all so much and hope everything is going great at home. Tell all my friends I miss them too! Love y’all so much! -Kate
Hey Mom & Dad, I have had an amazing trip so far! Everyone in my group is so nice and in only a few days we have grown so close. So far, we have done such cool things like horseback riding, chocolate tastings, tours of cities all around Ecuador, and zip lining through canyons! My favorite activity so far has to be the salsa dancing. It was the best night ever, and we were dancing on the dance floor for hours. Right now I am on the plane to the Galápagos and I cannot wait to swim ! Also, the food here is great! I have been learning lots of Spanish and I can’t wait to show you guys all of the pics!! Tell LG I hope he has a great move to Dallas! I miss y’all so much, but when I come home I can’t wait to share the stories! Love you guys! -Rowan
Hey Mom and Dad,I am having SOOO much fun, and this is the best trip ever. I have made so many new friends and everyone here is awesome. We are on the way to the Galápagos right now, and I am so so excited. Ecuador has been great and I’ve been speaking lots of Spanish. My favorite part was salsa dancing and zip lining. Love & miss y’all, but I don’t want to leave! Can’t wait to tell y’all all about it when I get home. Love y’all- May
Hi Mom and Dad, I have been having a great time in Ecuador. We have zip lined, horseback rode, and explored the city of Quito. I have made many friends and can’t wait to tell you about my adventures in the Galápagos Islands.Love, Austin
Aloha from the Galápagos.We’ve been having un tiempo bueno en Ecuador. Today we are traveling to the Galápagos. See you in Bham. The best, Benito
Hi Mom, Hi Dad, Just wanted to let you know I’m still alive and having so much fun! Everybody is super nice and super energetic. The first 2 days we stayed in a hostel and we went to explore Quito. Then we went to Baños. We went horseback riding and I still got it. The next day, we went zip lining. Now, we are heading to the islands. Super excited to use my hammock. Just wanted to let you know I’m thriving. Love, Michael
Hello Mom, Dad, and Reese, I am having the best time in Ecuador. Every day we see something cooler than the last. My favorite was zip lining and rock climbing. The views were so cool. Mom, thank you for praying for me because your prayers have worked. We are on our way to the Galápagos Islands today, and I am excited to swim and be in the sun.The food is also super good here. Dad, I can’t wait to get back and play golf. I miss you very much. Reese, I hope you had the best time in Europe and I can’t wait to hear about it. I saw a cat at one of our hostels and it reminded me of Rosie. I love y’all and miss y’all very much. Love, Charlie
Hey Mom and Dad, I’ve really enjoyed Ecuador. Everything here has been so cool. All the locals were nice, and I’ve been doing well even though I can’t speak any Spanish. School lied- Latin doesn’t help at all. Love and miss y’all.- Hibbs
Hey Mom and Dad!I am having so much fun and am already so close with my group. We are on the plane right now heading to the Galápagos. My favorite thing we have done so far has been the salsa dancing. It was so funny watching everyone trip on themselves while trying to keep up with the music. Our leaders are so, so nice too! I am having sooo sooo sooo much fun! Love you, SJ
Dear Mom and Dad, I have had an amazing first few days here in Ecuador! My Moondance group is great. Blythe and Stokes are good leaders, and the other kids are really awesome. We’ve done a lot: explored Quito, zip lined, and explored a city called Baños. We also went horseback riding. I also have been able to practice my Spanish. I hope you had an amazing time in Mexico City. Mom: Good luck in your CCHE meeting, and Dad, I hope you are able to finish some of the projects around the house. I love you both and I’ll see you soon! I am having so much fun. -Jacob
Safe Arrival!
June 6, 2026
Hello Ecuador + Galapagos Families!
We heard from our leaders this morning that the group has landed safely! The trip is off to a great start, and we cannot wait to hear more stories from their adventure!
Please remember our leaders and students will be unplugged during their trips, but we will be posting trip updates throughout the next week! This will allow you to follow along with the trip. You can also follow us on Instagram, @moondanceadventures, to see more of what we are up to!
-Moondance HQ
