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Introducing Galapagos Islands

Travel to the Galápagos Islands
Traveling to the Galápagos Islands is a life-changing experience, whether you visit the islands alone, with your partner, with family, or with friends. There are several travel options to discover the Galápagos. 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 Galápagos.

What makes the Galápagos so unique
These remote, isolated islands are home to unique and endemic 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 Galápagos 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, on 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 Galápagos. 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.

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.

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. 

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 Galápagos
Ultimate Guide to Diving in the Galápagos

The Galápagos 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 are among the world's most extraordinary travel destinations, and the opportunity to observe the archipelago's famous native creatures is especially...

Galapagos Islands Hotel Advice

Unique places to stay, curated by kimkim specialists
Photo courtesy of La Isla Hotel Galápagos
Isla Santa Cruz
La Isla Hotel
4.9
(9)
· Upscale
La Isla Hotel Galápagos is in Puerto Ayora, nine minutes from La Estacion Beach by foot and a 12-minute walk from Los Alemanes Beach. Its prime location on a quiet street allows you to easily access local attractions, such as the Charles Darwin Center and Tortuga Bay. Plus, numerous restaurants,...
Photo courtesy of Finch Bay Galápagos Hotel
Isla Santa Cruz
Finch Bay Galápagos Hotel
4.8
(4)
· Luxury
Eco-friendly Finch Bay Galápagos Hotel sits on Puerto Ayora's beachfront, where its exclusive location, steps from Playa de los Alemanes, puts guests close to watery attractions like popular Las Grietas. The hotel offers simple rooms and refined suites, all with private balconies and ocean views,...
Photo courtesy of Iguana Crossing Hotel
Isla Isabela
Iguana Crossing Hotel
4.6
(7)
· Luxury
Beachfront Iguana Crossing is an eco-conscious stay located on Isla Isabela, with views of both the Pacific and forested volcanic landscapes. Visitors are on a quiet stretch of sand just outside Puerto Villamil's small town center, within walking distance of restaurants and close to natural sites...

Our Latest Galapagos Islands Content

Spend your nights on water and your days exploring fascinating landscapes on a Galápagos cruise
Map of Cruise the Galápagos - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas
Cruise the Galápagos - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

During a Galápagos cruise, you can explore dramatic coastal cliffs, serene lagoons, and wildlife-filled volcanic landscapes. If you're seeking a short but action-packed adventure, choose between a three or four-night cruise featuring the islands of Santa Cruz, Española, and San Cristóbal. Or, opt for a six or eight-day cruise to relax more between excursions. Diving enthusiasts will find a dedicated eight-day cruise an excellent fit, while those eager to get off the beaten path spend 15 fabulous days at sea.

Experience the Galápagos from the comfort of boutique hotels and luxury "glamping" resorts (photo courtesy of Galápagos Safari Camp)
Map of 10 Days in the Galápagos - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in the Galápagos - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days in the Galápagos, you can visit multiple islands and still enjoy a couple of days on mainland Ecuador. For ultimate luxury, board a superyacht and sail between nine spectacular islands. Alternatively, choose a shorter cruise to allow more time for exploring Quito and Guayaquil. If you prefer top-notch resorts, a land-based trip combining adventurous excursions and relaxing boat tours is ideal, or consider a detour to the lush Ecuadorian Amazon for incredible wildlife encounters.

Consider an eco-conscious luxury trip to the Galápagos Islands (photo courtesy of Pikaia Lodge)
Map of 1 Week in the Galápagos Islands - 4 Luxury Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in the Galápagos Islands - 4 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

With a week in the Galápagos Islands on a luxury-themed itinerary, you can experience the unspoiled landscapes and unique luxuries of Isla Santa Cruz and Isla Isabela while basing yourself in lavish accommodations. Or, settle in onboard an extraordinary catamaran and spend your days sailing to remote islands and picturesque bays. Include a stay in Quito to delve into Ecuador's welcoming culture and upscale cuisine and overnight in Otavalo for an introduction to life in the highlands.

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 Liz Karen L. Jihuallanca
active 5 hours ago

Liz Karen L. Jihuallanca

Peruvian food, culture, and history aren’t just things I love—they’re a part of who I am. As a proud Cusqueñian, I carry my roots with pride and love sharing my culture with others. I've lived...

read more...
Travel specialist Alvaro Pereira
active 19 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 7 days 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 Linda Schulz
active 14 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

I am incredibly impressed with the customer s...
Galapagos Islands | May 8 - May 14, 2026

Sarah
Sarah G.
Dallas, TX | Reviewed on May 18, 2026
I am incredibly impressed with the customer service provided by the team at KimKim! It was wonderful to not worry about ANYTHING - even all the taxis and boat trips were scheduled and paid for. We felt so taken care of and respected by everyone. Veronica was our favorite guide. She was so knowledgeable and eager to answer our questions. One of my favorite moments was day one at Rancho Primicias - having lunch and watching the tortoises roam. I also loved our snorkeling and kayak experience... Read more

I am incredibly impressed with the customer service provided by the team at KimKim! It was wonderful to not worry about ANYTHING - even all the taxis and boat trips were scheduled and paid for. We felt so taken care of and respected by everyone.

Veronica was our favorite guide. She was so knowledgeable and eager to answer our questions. One of my favorite moments was day one at Rancho Primicias - having lunch and watching the tortoises roam. I also loved our snorkeling and kayak experience at Concha Perla - we saw so much wildlife and had such a serene experience. The only struggle was that this guide did not speak any English on this tour - we of course understand that it is not something to expect, but all of our other guides did speak some English. The up side was I know a little Spanish so I was able to translate a bit for my mom and practice my own Spanish!!! :)

Fabricio was wonderful too - we loved our trip to North Seymour to see the frigates!!!

Overall, 100/10 experience and it was worth every penny. So happy and pleased with it all!!! Thank you!!

Hotel Reviews
Hotel La Laguna
Puerto Villamil

Our room overlooking the bay was incredible! We loved hearing the flamingoes from the balcony. The downside to this hotel was hearing street noise - there was a dog barking through the night on both nights we stayed there. I know this is not something that can be helped, though!

Authenticity & Character
Water on each floor, the open air concept, the breakfast on the third floor
Location
Right next to the bay with the flamingos and around the corner from wonderful shopping and food.
Staff
I cannot remember names, but all the staff at the front desk were wonderful! Two younger men.
Cleanliness & Comfort
The bed was great and we loved the room!
Hotel Fiesta
Puerto Ayora

Incredible location and beautiful pool! We loved Gabriel - he was so kind and helpful!

Authenticity & Character
The pool was very lagoon-like. So beautiful and relaxing!
Location
Staff
Gabriel - so kind and went out of his way to help us.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station
Visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station
Puerto Ayora

This was the last stop of the day for us on day 1 and we had already had a full day (plus waking up at 5am for a flight), so we were a little too tired to enjoy it fully. We wished it would have been scheduled for a different day so we could have gone to the hotel to rest. But otherwise, we loved seeing the baby tortoises and Lonesome George!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Ariel Chasi

Stress-Free, Flexible and Extremely Personal Service
Galapagos Islands | May 7 - May 14, 2026

Beatrice
Beatrice B.
Germany | Reviewed on May 16, 2026
We booked a one-week trip to Ecuador for 2 people through Kimkim, including Quito, a guided city tour, and 3 days in the Galápagos — and the entire experience was fantastic from start to finish. Our trip planner was Alvaro, and honestly, working with him was probably one of the best parts of the whole planning process. At the beginning, we only had a very rough idea of what we wanted to do. We were still unsure about the itinerary, duration, budget, and how to combine mainland Ecuador with... Read more

We booked a one-week trip to Ecuador for 2 people through Kimkim, including Quito, a guided city tour, and 3 days in the Galápagos — and the entire experience was fantastic from start to finish.

Our trip planner was Alvaro, and honestly, working with him was probably one of the best parts of the whole planning process. At the beginning, we only had a very rough idea of what we wanted to do. We were still unsure about the itinerary, duration, budget, and how to combine mainland Ecuador with the Galápagos. Based on that very vague starting point, Alvaro created an excellent first proposal with a concrete itinerary and transparent pricing, which immediately helped us visualize the trip.

What impressed us most was how easy and pleasant communication was. Every question and every requested change was answered incredibly quickly and always very professionally. For example, our first proposal was above our budget, and almost immediately Alvaro sent us an adapted version together with clear explanations of what had been changed and why. It never felt pushy — instead, it felt collaborative and genuinely personalized.

The payment process was also very straightforward and reassuring (30% deposit first, remaining balance later before the trip).

Another thing we really appreciated was that Alvaro kept checking in with us before the trip started, asking whether we still had questions and making sure we felt prepared. He also introduced us in advance to the local Ecuadorian partner responsible for the on-the-ground coordination (Sebastian from Responsible Travel South America).

This was honestly what made the whole experience feel so special: everything was incredibly easy and digital, but still deeply personal at the same time. Even though everything was organized online, we always felt like we had real people taking care of us.

I can 100% recommend Kimkim, and especially Alvaro, for anyone planning a trip to Ecuador.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Coloma Galapagos
Puerto Ayora

A very special hotel, the decoration is very creative and present in all details of the hotel. The staff is friendly and helpful (especially the ladies for breakfast!). The rooms are rather basic but clean. The pool is more a place to cool down rather than a place you can spend time to unwind. But it is very useful after a hot day exploring the islands! No laundry service but a few meters away you have a local laundry place very cheap and reliable with next day service (Iris Lavanderia). Breakfast is a bit basic but coffee is good.

Authenticity & Character
Decoration is very interesting
Location
Central, 10-15 mn by foot from all restaurants
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Courtyard by Marriott Quito Airport
Quito

Very convenient, exactly in front of the airport, you just need to cross the road. Comfortable, you can have dinner in the hotel. Great location to take your plane early!

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

Very well situated, with a lot of good restaurants or coffees around, and museums. Very friendly and helpful staff, good breakfast buffet with good coffee. Rooms on the main building are amazing, very comfortable and beautifully decorated. The room I had on my first night was in the extended building, still clean and comfortable but more basic in terms of decoration and cosiness.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ilatoa Lodge
Quito

We only stayed one night before taking our flight in Quito airport, but we wished we had stayed longer: the hotel is situated in a beautiful quiet piece on the mountain with an amazing view, the rooms are comfortable and beautiful. Everything is cosy, well decorated and the reception of the owner was very warm. He even has a wine cellar and you can have drinks on the terrasse outside or inside, to wind down of your day. He also has two adorable and friendly dogs. We highly recommend!

Authenticity & Character
Very authentic and cosy
Location
Quiet, in the mountain, a bit far away from the center but ideal before getting to the airport or to have a more natural experience.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Alvaro Pereira
Alvaro
Alvaro Pereira
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on May 16, 2026

Dear Beatrice
Thank you very much for your kind words and for your review. I am very happy to know that you and Andreas had such a great experience in Ecuador and Galápagos. It means a lot to us.

I also appreciate your excellent attitude and trust during the whole planning process, which allowed us to organize the best activities for you.

Sebastian is also always available if you ever need help again in the future. We hope this is not your last visit to Ecuador, there are still many beautiful places to discover.
.
See you soon!
Alvaro

Wonderful Service from Start to Finish
Galapagos Islands | Apr 27 - May 11, 2026

Susan
Susan M.
Hinckley, OH, USA | Reviewed on May 12, 2026
Everything from start to finish was wonderful. Ariel helped us plan our trip and he was very responsive to our questions and requests! His communication with us throughout our trip was excellent. We began our trip in Quito. Our driver, Cristobal, was very helpful. He gave us suggestions for things to do in the city, and types of Ecuadorian foods to eat. More significantly, he walked us through the airport to get us to the Galapagos - customs, check in, and location of the security gate for... Read more

Everything from start to finish was wonderful. Ariel helped us plan our trip and he was very responsive to our questions and requests! His communication with us throughout our trip was excellent. We began our trip in Quito. Our driver, Cristobal, was very helpful. He gave us suggestions for things to do in the city, and types of Ecuadorian foods to eat. More significantly, he walked us through the airport to get us to the Galapagos - customs, check in, and location of the security gate for our flight. Once in the Galapagos we had outstanding guides and Kimkim boots on the ground help. In San Cristobal, Ian made sure we were at the right places and on time. In Santa Cruz, Viviana gave us an outstanding Highland Tour. We’d highly recommend this tour as you can get up close to the giant tortoises in their natural environment. Scuba Iguana was an outstanding dive outfit. Our dive guides, Gabby and Kike, were awesome. We’ve dove in multiple places around the world and we’d say that Scuba Iguana was the best thus far - and we thought the others were good too! Staff is friendly and fun. They make a point of knowing your name, comfort level, and help every step of the way. We felt spoiled. While in Santa Cruz, my husband came down with a bad bacterial and viral infection that left him very dehydrated. We couldn’t have navigated this issue without the help of Kimkim boots on the ground. Many thanks to Diego, Veronica, and Tatiana for helping with Spanish translation, rearranging our stay, and ensuring we were well taken care of throughout a stressful situation. I will definitely work with Kimkim again on future trips.

Hotel Reviews
La Isla Hotel
Puerto Ayora

Clean and comfortable. Breakfast each morning was very good. Centrally located with many attractions within walking distance. Staff was very helpful and friendly. Loved the shower - it’s huge!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Galapagos Sunset Hotel
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno

Centrally located and close to many attractions

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
La Casona de La Ronda
Quito

Small boutique hotel with outstanding service. Clean and comfortable, friendly staff. We had a great breakfast at the hotel and dinners were wonderful too!

Authenticity & Character
Loved the architecture
Location
In the heart of the historic district and walking distance to many sights.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Discover Isla Pinzón & Playa La Fé
Discover Isla Pinzón & Playa La Fé
Puerto Ayora
Scuba Diving - Another day to dive in Santa Cruz
Scuba Diving - Another day to dive in Santa Cruz
Galapagos Islands
Scuba Diving - Another day to dive in Santa Cruz
Scuba Diving - Another day to dive in Santa Cruz
Galapagos Islands

Hammerheads!!

Scuba Diving - Day Trip from Santa Cruz
Scuba Diving - Day Trip from Santa Cruz
Galapagos Islands

Scuba Iguana is a top notch dive outfit. Highly recommended!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Gabby and Kike were super! The captain of the boat, Enrique, was very good. Jose helped out with dive gear, snacks and lunch- outstanding.
Excursion to an uninhabited island
Excursion to an uninhabited island
Galapagos Islands
Highlands of Santa Cruz Island
Highlands of Santa Cruz Island
Galapagos Islands

Fun to see the giant tortoises in their natural environment.

Quality of Experience
Food
Outstanding!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Viviana was very knowledgeable.
Transport
Snorkel at Kicker Rock (Leon Dormido)
Snorkel at Kicker Rock (Leon Dormido)
Galapagos Islands
Quality of Experience
Certainly not the fault of the guides - visibility was not great. Make sure you don’t go when there’s a full moon. Apparently it impacts what you can see.
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Ariel Chasi
Ariel
Ariel Chasi
Local specialist in Quito | Replied on May 12, 2026

Dear Susan and Brian,

Thank you so much for the wonderful review! It was truly a pleasure helping you plan your journey from Quito to the Galapagos. I’m so glad to hear that Cristobal, Ian, Viviana, and the rest of the team made you feel well-supported every step of the way, especially Diego, Veronica, and Tatiana during such a difficult moment. We’re thrilled your husband is doing better and that you enjoyed the tortoises and your dives with Scuba Iguana.

All the best,
Ariel

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