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Introducing Galapagos Islands

Travel to the Galapagos Islands
Traveling to the Galapagos Islands is a life-changing experience, whether you visit the islands alone, with your partner, with family or friends. There are several travel options to discover the Galapagos. The best and most popular way is by cruising the islands on board yachts and ships. Another alternative is a hotel-based program from the three main ports in Galapagos.

What makes the Galapagos so unique
These remote and isolated islands are home to endemic and unique species. During the daily excursions, you'll have the opportunity to experience close encounters with amazing wildlife, fearless of human beings. Each island will bring something new to your experience. The Galapagos Islands were also recently declared a marine sanctuary!

Explore trips by duration: 5 days · 6 days · 7 days · 8 days · 9 days · 10 days · 11 days · 12 days · 13 days · 14 days

Galapagos Islands Tours & Itineraries

Get inspired by trips other travelers have loved
Isla Isabela, Galápagos
Map of Galápagos Islands Land-Based Adventure Tour: 10 Days
Galápagos Islands Land-Based Adventure Tour: 10 Days

This 10-day trip will take you to the best the Galápagos has to offer. Immerse yourself in the wildlife, culture, and unique ecosystem of the archipelago as you see the sights by bike, by foot, and in the water. This extraordinary tour includes snorkeling with sea lions, tropical fish, and beautiful manta rays. On land, there will be numerous chances to observe giant tortoises and other amazing creatures in this one-of-a-kind destination.

View of Puerto Ayora.
Map of Galapagos Islands Land-Based Adventure Tour: 6 Days
Galapagos Islands Land-Based Adventure Tour: 6 Days

Land-based tours are a more economical and comfortable alternative to cruising the Galapagos. This 6-day itinerary takes in the highlights of the three main inhabited islands — from watching giant tortoises to hiking around an active volcanic crater and snorkeling with penguins and sharks.

Sea Lions Playing Under the Waves
Map of Best of Ecuador: Quito & the Galapagos Islands - 7 Days
Best of Ecuador: Quito & the Galapagos Islands - 7 Days

This whirlwind trip takes you to many of Ecuador's top highlights in a single week. Stroll the colonial streets of Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and stand on the equator at Mitad del Mundo. Then it's off to the Galapagos Islands for four days of hiking, snorkeling, kayaking, wildlife viewing, and relaxing on the beach. From snow-capped peaks to deep waters filled with sea turtles and penguins, this diverse itinerary has something for everyone.

Viewing giant tortoises in their native habitat is a highlight of the Galapagos.
Map of Galapagos Cruise: Wildlife Watching, Snorkeling & Hiking - 11 Days
Galapagos Cruise: Wildlife Watching, Snorkeling & Hiking - 11 Days

Cruising around the Galapagos Islands — viewing extraordinary wildlife and natural sights by day while motoring between islands at night — is one of the best ways to experience these magical islands. On this tour, you'll visit 11 islands in the famed archipelago, observing birdlife, sea lions, marine iguanas, sharks, giant tortoises and an array of other creatures.

Blue-footed boobies
Map of Galápagos Island Hopping: San Cristobal & Santa Cruz - 5 Days
Galápagos Island Hopping: San Cristobal & Santa Cruz - 5 Days

If you're short on time but don't want to cut back on experiences, this 5-day island hopping trip to the Galápagos is for you. Fly out of Quito, heading for San Cristobal—home of the famous sea lion colony and Kicker Rock. Then, take a speedboat to Santa Cruz, where you'll see giant tortoises and visit an uninhabited island. 

A blue-footed booby in the Galapagos
Map of Galápagos Islands & Machu Picchu Adventure - 10 Days
Galápagos Islands & Machu Picchu Adventure - 10 Days

Combine two of South America's most iconic destinations on this 10-day tour of the Galápagos Islands and Machu Picchu. You'll start in Ecuador, spending several days island hopping, snorkeling, hiking, and wildlife viewing in the Galápagos. Then you'll cross the border to Peru, spending a night in Lima, another in Cusco, and finally taking the scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. A visit to the famed "lost city of the Incas" is the perfect way to end this diverse adventure.

Make the Most of Your Time in Galapagos Islands

Have a fixed number of days? Maximize the things to see and do during your visit

Galapagos Islands Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip
Shark in the Galapagos
Ultimate Guide to Diving in the Galapagos

The Galapagos Islands are spectacular in so many ways, but even more so underwater. The seascapes of reefs, ledges, walls and extinct volcanic craters are teeming with wildlife...

Seals in the Galápagos Islands
Family Travel in the Galápagos Islands

The Galápagos Islands comprise one of the world's most extraordinary travel destinations, and the opportunity to observe the famous archipelago's native creatures is especially...

Our Latest Galapagos Islands Content

Enjoy spending time with your family as you explore Los Túneles' scenic terrain, Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
Map of 2 Weeks in the Galápagos Islands - 5 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in the Galápagos Islands - 5 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

Two weeks in the Galápagos Islands allow you to embark on the ultimate island-hopping family adventure, complete with kid-friendly hikes, kayaking trips, and snorkeling excursions. Or take a more relaxed approach and opt for a wildlife-focused cruise perfect for families with younger children. Those looking to mix in culture and history will love spending a week in Quito before heading to Isla Santa Cruz, while families who prefer keeping on the move will delight in an island-hopping experience.

Mother and two kids hiking on the Galápagos Islands
Map of 10 Days in the Galápagos Islands - 5 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in the Galápagos Islands - 5 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days in the Galápagos Islands, you and your family can split your time between the beaches and coastlines of Isla Santa Cruz, Isla Isabela, and Isla San Cristóbal on a relaxed island-hopping family trip. Or opt for a city and nature tour, which includes four thrilling days in Quito. Adventurous families with older children will love packing in epic activities on a multi-island itinerary, while wildlife fanatics shouldn't miss time in the Amazon.

Meet the friendly locals when you arrive on Isla Santa Cruz
Map of Ultimate Family Trip to the Galápagos: Santa Cruz, Isabela & San Cristóbal - 14 Days
Ultimate Family Trip to the Galápagos: Santa Cruz, Isabela & San Cristóbal - 14 Days

Embark on the family adventure of a lifetime with this two-week, multi-island exploration of the Galápagos. Hop between the archipelago's three main islands, discovering the unique ecosystems of each with an itinerary of fun wildlife encounters, kid-friendly active excursions, and plenty of laid-back beach time. Kayak alongside friendly sea lions on Isla Santa Cruz, hike to volcanic craters and cycle the backroads of Isla Isabela, and snorkel through the underwater wonders of Isla San Cristóbal.

Galapagos Islands Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Map 7 Days in the Galapagos Islands - 4 Unique Itineraries
7 Days in the Galapagos Islands - 4 Unique Itineraries
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Map 5 Days in the Galápagos Islands - 4 Unique Itineraries
5 Days in the Galápagos Islands - 4 Unique Itineraries
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Map 10 Days in the Galapagos Islands - 4 Unique Itineraries
10 Days in the Galapagos Islands - 4 Unique Itineraries
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Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Galapagos Islands
Travel specialist Alvaro Pereira
active 15 mins ago

Alvaro Pereira

Born and raised in the vibrant country of Ecuador, I am the ideal person to craft a unique and unforgettable trip within my homeland. My passion for travel and exploring new and exciting places...

read more...
Travel specialist Mathias Onisseit
active 3 hours ago

Mathias Onisseit

Originally from Germany, in 2010 I set out to explore South America and soon fell in love with the super-diverse country named Ecuador (and its neat little attachment Galapagos). What fascinates me...

read more...
Travel specialist Tamer Obeid
active 2 hours ago

Tamer Obeid

A traveler myself since 1997, blessed to have had unforgettable experiences in different parts of this world that haven’t ceased to amaze me! Originally from the middle east, I have lived in the...

read more...
Travel specialist Linda Schulz
active 16 hours ago

Linda Schulz

Originally from Germany, I have traveled around the world and lived in Australia, Bangladesh, and finally Ecuador. Ecuador is such a diverse and beautiful country, so I soon fell deeply in love...

read more...

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Trip Reviews for Galapagos Islands

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Nick
Galapagos Islands | Mar 21 - Mar 29, 2024

B
Brica W.
Mequon, WI | Reviewed on Mar 30, 2024
Nick made the entire trip, so incredible and completely stress-free. Wherever we went, there was someone to meet us and show us where to go or take us there personally. I absolutely love this company because they allow you to cater your trip to whatever you want it to be, you can choose what type of hotel, what type of trip you want to make it. Also, we have a daughter that has celiac disease, and no matter where we went, they knew that she had to be gluten-free. Nick was always available... Read more

Nick made the entire trip, so incredible and completely stress-free. Wherever we went, there was someone to meet us and show us where to go or take us there personally. I absolutely love this company because they allow you to cater your trip to whatever you want it to be, you can choose what type of hotel, what type of trip you want to make it. Also, we have a daughter that has celiac disease, and no matter where we went, they knew that she had to be gluten-free. Nick was always available throughout our trip for us to ask any questions and he quickly responded and I have had the same experience using this company in other countries, and it makes such a difference in making travel stress-free. I highly highly highly recommend.

Hotel Reviews
Wyndham Quito Airport
Quito

It is literally across the street from the airport. The staff is beyond five star. The restaurant had great food options.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Albemarle
Puerto Villamil
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ikala Galapagos Hotel
Puerto Ayora

Very friendly staff, great location and clean.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ikala Quito Hotel
Quito

we loved this hotel, because each room had such a special theme. Our kids room was almost like being in a museum.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Wildlife Encounter at Los Tuneles (Cabo Rosa)
Wildlife Encounter at Los Tuneles (Cabo Rosa)
Galapagos Islands

this was an unbelievable experience, even though it rained at the beginning. It was our first snorkeling experience in the Galapagos, and it did not disappoint. We saw blue, footed, boobies, penguins, octopus, sea lions, swam beneath us, we saw sea cucumbers the list goes on and on.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Kayaking Adventure  in Tortuga Bay
Private Kayaking Adventure in Tortuga Bay
Puerto Ayora

The beach will take your breath away. The walk to get there is worth it but just know that it feels like a very long way in the heat and humidity.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Hotsprings in Termas de Papallacta
Hotsprings in Termas de Papallacta
Galapagos Islands

Do not miss! It is so beautiful and serene. A completely different world of relaxation.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Morning Adventure to Teleferico Cablecar
Morning Adventure to Teleferico Cablecar
Quito

it was very cloudy, and our guide decided to offer us a trip to a very beautiful church, and then we did use the Teleferico even though it was still very cloudy. I recommend going no matter what the weather is because it is such an incredible experience, even if you cannot see the other mountains/volcanoes.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Nicolas Cadena
Nicolas
Nicolas Cadena
Local specialist in Ecuador | Replied on Mar 30, 2024
Dear Brica, We appreciate your lovely feedback regarding your trip, it was such a pleasure to help you and your family have an out of this world vacation. I loved seeing the picture of all of your experiences, and the curious animals in the Galapagos, I cannot truly tell you fun it was to have you here. Meeting the family was wonderful, and it surely was a great start for this trip, you will surely be like family to us! We can’t thank you enough for visiting these enchanted islands and... Read more

Dear Brica,

We appreciate your lovely feedback regarding your trip, it was such a pleasure to help you and your family have an out of this world vacation.

I loved seeing the picture of all of your experiences, and the curious animals in the Galapagos, I cannot truly tell you fun it was to have you here.

Meeting the family was wonderful, and it surely was a great start for this trip, you will surely be like family to us! We can’t thank you enough for visiting these enchanted islands and your kind words.

We would love to have you in South America in the near future and create an equally as unforgettable experience :)

Yours,
Nick

Trip of a lifetime!
Galapagos Islands | Mar 9 - Mar 16, 2024

B
Barry T.
Cherry Hill, NJ | Reviewed on Mar 24, 2024

Kimkim did an incredible job as usual! Alvaro was terrific to work with and and answered all of my questions in a timely manner and worked with us to put together a memorable vacation.

Once we were there Rita was also excellent to work with. She coordinated everything and she was always met us in-person with a bright smile to get our daily plans started.

Overall it was a trip of a lifetime!

Local specialist: Alvaro Pereira
Alvaro
Alvaro Pereira
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Mar 27, 2024
Hello Barry, Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience with us! I'm happy to hear that your vacation arranged through Kimkim was nothing short of incredible. We're delighted that everything ran smoothly during your trip. It's always our goal to make sure our travelers feel well taken care of and can fully immerse themselves in their travel experiences. We couldn't be happier to hear that your adventure with us was a trip of a lifetime! Creating unforgettable memories... Read more

Hello Barry,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience with us! I'm happy to hear that your vacation arranged through Kimkim was nothing short of incredible.

We're delighted that everything ran smoothly during your trip. It's always our goal to make sure our travelers feel well taken care of and can fully immerse themselves in their travel experiences.

We couldn't be happier to hear that your adventure with us was a trip of a lifetime! Creating unforgettable memories for our travelers is what drives us, and your feedback reaffirms that we're on the right track.

Once again, thank you for choosing Kimkim for your vacation, and we hope to have the opportunity to assist you with your future travel plans!

Warm regards,
Alvaro

Alvaro helped us plan the perfect trip for us...
Galapagos Islands | Mar 9 - Mar 16, 2024

Sandy
Sandy T.
Cherry Hill, NJ | Reviewed on Mar 22, 2024

Alvaro helped us plan the perfect trip for us. We loved the whole experience.

Local specialist: Alvaro Pereira
Alvaro
Alvaro Pereira
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Mar 22, 2024

Hello Sandy!

Thank you so much for your kind words! It was an absolute pleasure helping you and Barry in planning your trip.

I'm thrilled to know that you loved the experience. Creating memorable and seamless travel experiences is always our goal, and I'm so happy that we were able to achieve that for you.

If you ever need assistance with future travel plans to another great place in Ecuador, please don't hesitate to reach out.

Safe travels!
Alvaro :)