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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. 

Spot flamingoes and other exotic wildlife in the Galápagos
Map of Best of Peru Tour & Galápagos Cruise - 12 Days
Best of Peru Tour & Galápagos Cruise - 12 Days

Discover ancient ruins, colonial architecture, fantastic food, and folk culture in Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and the iconic Machu Picchu. Then hop aboard the luxurious Galápagos Legend—the only cruise boat in the Galápagos with an on-deck swimming pool—for a multi-island expedition to observe the birds, iguanas, and sea creatures that make this place so special.

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 Mathias Onisseit
active 1 hour 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...

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Travel specialist Alvaro Pereira
active 10 hours 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...

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Travel specialist Tamer Obeid
active 5 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...

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Travel specialist Lucia Cazar
active 8 hours ago

Lucia Cazar

I started to travel, camp, and go on excursions (especially in natural environments) when I was 10 years old - since then I have never stopped. Before I started my studies in Tourism and...

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Trip Reviews for Galapagos Islands

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Galápagos Islands were one of the best trips ...
Galapagos Islands | Nov 17 - Nov 27, 2023

Shari
Shari T.
San Diego, CA | Reviewed on Dec 04, 2023
Galápagos Islands were one of the best trips of my life! Everything exceeded my expectations. All the sightseeings, tours and tour guides were great. I was amazed by the wild life and marine life on the islands! The trip was filled with so much enthusiasm and excitement every day! The food was wonderful and so fresh. I highly recommend this trip to all nature enthusiasts and adventurers! So many things to see and places to explore! Read more

Galápagos Islands were one of the best trips of my life! Everything exceeded my expectations. All the sightseeings, tours and tour guides were great. I was amazed by the wild life and marine life on the islands! The trip was filled with so much enthusiasm and excitement every day! The food was wonderful and so fresh. I highly recommend this trip to all nature enthusiasts and adventurers! So many things to see and places to explore!

Activity Reviews
The Treasure of Galapagos: Scuba Diving at Kicker Rock
The Treasure of Galapagos: Scuba Diving at Kicker Rock
Isla San Cristóbal

My diving experience was exhilarating and beyond belief. Thanks to the dive master for taking good care of us (3 divers at different skill levels) and showing us the best of Galápagos and kicker rock had to offer . I felt safe and enjoyed every moment of my diving experience. In addition, I got so many amazing underwater photos and videos which I will alway cherish and remember.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Experience the Pristine Beauty of Galápagos Islands: Discovering an Uninhabited Island
Experience the Pristine Beauty of Galápagos Islands: Discovering an Uninhabited Island
Puerto Ayora

North Seymour was great! Loved every single moment of my hike on this island .

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Lucia Cazar

This was a bucket-list trip for my wife's 60t...
Galapagos Islands | Nov 17 - Nov 25, 2023

Steve
Steve C.
Fort Collins, CO | Reviewed on Dec 03, 2023
This was a bucket-list trip for my wife's 60th birthday. It was amazing. Tamer and Nick were super responsive and put together an amazing array of activities. Los Tunneles, Sierra Negro, Mountain biking, all unbelievable and the guides were like none we've ever experienced. Every guide had masters-degree level knowledge of the islands - the Geology, animals, plants, aquatic life, ocean currents. plate tectonics, ... absolutely incredible educational experience. The animals we saw blew away... Read more

This was a bucket-list trip for my wife's 60th birthday. It was amazing. Tamer and Nick were super responsive and put together an amazing array of activities. Los Tunneles, Sierra Negro, Mountain biking, all unbelievable and the guides were like none we've ever experienced. Every guide had masters-degree level knowledge of the islands - the Geology, animals, plants, aquatic life, ocean currents. plate tectonics, ... absolutely incredible educational experience. The animals we saw blew away what we had previously seen in Hawaii and the Caribbean. The only thing we'd change, and it was on us, not on Tamer and Nick, is we'd schedule a down day or two rather than stacking activities every day we were there. We are not spanish speakers (still learning) and the coordination by Nick and Tamer was just perfect. Just the right amount of guidance to force us to learn a bit about the locals and the culture, but not feel lost. There's a lot of different people to interface with, and Nick and Tamer knew where we'd be a little challenged, and took care of it. We took a more land-based approach on this trip - we're not cruise people and a lot of folks see the Galapagos from a larger boat
- staying at locally run hotels was another way to meet locals and fellow travelers. We will definitely use these Nick and Tamer (KimKIm) for another trip in the future. We have multiple places in South America to experience - Patagonia is next.

Hotel Review
Isamar Hotel
Puerto Villamil, Isla Isabela

This is a really small hotel, right on the beach, run by super nice locals. We'd return in a heartbeat. short walk to mainstreet for renting equipment and authentic food, or eat at the hotel.

Authenticity & Character
Location
In all of our studying for the Galapagos, we did not expect a locals hotel on a beautiful white sandy beach. 5 minutes walk from unbelievable local seafood and equipment shops.
Staff
Everyone was amazing - Daniel, our bartender, breakfast guy and mountain biking guy was our favorite, he has a standing invitation to stay with us any time he comes to the US.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Arrival to Santa Cruz Island - Charles Darwin Station
Arrival to Santa Cruz Island - Charles Darwin Station
Puerto Ayora

Darwin Station is a very special place, very educational, and they've put together a breeding and re-population program that meshes well with the locals. It can be a fairly short visit, but is not to be missed

Dinner by the Sea
Dinner by the Sea
Galapagos Islands

This was probably our best food of the trip. The owner is very proud of what he prepares and the service was very friendly. Just note, they do not like to bring your bill to you anywhere in Galapagos, you have to politely ask. We were hopeful to get back here for another meal, but ran out of time. Beware, a couple of the restaurants on the main street, not too far from these guys, are really expensive and mediocre, like chain restaurants in the US.

Experience the Pristine Beauty of Galápagos Islands: Discovering an Uninhabited Island
Experience the Pristine Beauty of Galápagos Islands: Discovering an Uninhabited Island
Puerto Ayora

This was a great day, the old volcano hike was educational and beautiful, and the snorkeling was really nice , though not as amazing as los tuneles Note, this is a decently long boat ride, and the seas can be a little rough. Plan accordingly. The food prepared on the boat was the best we had on any boat on our trip.

Wildlife Encounter at Los Tuneles (Cabo Rosa)
Wildlife Encounter at Los Tuneles (Cabo Rosa)
Galapagos Islands

This was the snorkeling highlight of our trip. The sharks, rays, sea lions, turtles, and fish were unreal. we'd be swimming with 3 or 4 400 pound sea turtles at once, or 10 sharks, or have sea lions messing with us. None of the wildlife was afraid or nervous around us. Simply amazing. The boat ride is pretty exciting, and the last bit, through the surf break, is a testament to the boating skills of the captain. How we did it without bouncing off the volcanic flows was magic.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Hiking the Sierra Negra  Volcano
Hiking the Sierra Negra Volcano
Galapagos Islands

This is the second largest caldera on the planet, it's huge, and the hike is really cool, though could be challenging for some. Our guide had more knowledge of the plate tectonics, volcanos, lava types, and wildlife than you'd find in a major university - he was simply amazing. This is an important activity in understanding how truly unique the islands really are.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kayak in Puerto Villamil - Biking in Cave Sucre
Kayak in Puerto Villamil - Biking in Cave Sucre
Galapagos Islands

I need to split these. The biking and cave Sucre were amazing. we spent 30 minutes within 10 meters of a galapagos hawk, saw a bunch of the agricultural area of the island, and got some decent singletrack in, all with a fabulous guide. The kayaking was fun and educational, but honestly, after everything else we'd already seen, the kayaking would have been the one activity that we'd cut. The guide was good, and we saw great wildlife, but we were so spoiled with the other activities, that the kayaking didn't stand out.

Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our cave sucre and mountain biking guide was awesome!
Exploring the Santa Cruz Highlands & a Local Coffee Farm
Exploring the Santa Cruz Highlands & a Local Coffee Farm
Galapagos Islands

I need to split this one, too. The coffee was kinda cool, and I love coffee, but the whole experience was a bit heavy on marketing. The highlands and the tortoise refuge were unreal. Watching these massive animals wallow in the mud, sleep, wander, was once in a lifetime. The education was incredible, and again, they're doing great work within the culture and needs of the locals and the island.

Local specialist: Tamer Obeid
Tamer
Tamer Obeid
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Dec 03, 2023
Dear Steve,
What a pleasure it was having you and Susan in the Enchanted Islands for her birthday. We are really happy that we were able to make this a truly amazing experience. How lucky you are; the Galapagos hawk is one of the hardest species to spot! We can only hope to see you around again sometime shortly, we would love to help you plan your trip to Patagonia!
We honestly cannot thank you enough for your kind words and detailed feedback, we'll make sure to convey this great insight...
Read more

Dear Steve,
What a pleasure it was having you and Susan in the Enchanted Islands for her birthday. We are really happy that we were able to make this a truly amazing experience. How lucky you are; the Galapagos hawk is one of the hardest species to spot! We can only hope to see you around again sometime shortly, we would love to help you plan your trip to Patagonia!
We honestly cannot thank you enough for your kind words and detailed feedback, we'll make sure to convey this great insight regarding the excursions, the guides, the hotels, and their staff, especially Daniel, I'm sure they would be thrilled to hear this.
Best regards from the Middle of the World,
Nick & Tamer

KimKim Planned a Perfect Trip for our Family
Galapagos Islands | Nov 26 - Nov 30, 2023

Cindy
Cindy M.
Lubbock, TX | Reviewed on Dec 01, 2023
Everything from beginning to end of our trip to the Galapagos was a wonderful experience! This was our first trip planned by KimKim, and we could not be more pleased. Linda Schultz was so easy to work with, and patient with questions and prompt with her answers. The welcome gift of Ecuadorian products that was waiting for us at our hotel before departure was a pleasant surprise. Indira Torres met us at the airport on Baltra and endeared herself to us immediately. What a treasure of a... Read more

Everything from beginning to end of our trip to the Galapagos was a wonderful experience! This was our first trip planned by KimKim, and we could not be more pleased. Linda Schultz was so easy to work with, and patient with questions and prompt with her answers. The welcome gift of Ecuadorian products that was waiting for us at our hotel before departure was a pleasant surprise. Indira Torres met us at the airport on Baltra and endeared herself to us immediately. What a treasure of a local guide! Liz Arboleda also took good care of us on Santa Cruz Island, helping us get to and from our transfers to Isabella Island. Our guide on Isabella (Nelly) was also attentive and flexible to our needs. Our two hotels (Plaza Luna and Isamar) were fantastic! Plaza Luna stored some of our luggage so we didn’t have to take it all to Isabella, and sent some laundry out for us (all thanks to Liz’s suggestion.). And what a fantastic breakfast! Both hotels had great locations and amenities. Every meal arranged by KimKim was a winner. The snorkeling excursion on Isabella was most enjoyable. We did everything we wanted to do in our 5 day itinerary, and had the perfect amount of free time for doing our own exploring. Thank you, KimKim and Linda, for a perfect vacation to Galapagos!

Hotel Reviews
Plaza Luna Suites
Puerto Ayora

We loved Villa Luna! Loved the ambience, the service, and the location. The breakfast is amazing and beautifully displayed. Scrambled or fried eggs available. Lots of fruits and vegetables. Wonderful servers. Jessica (owner) welcomed us both days with cool aromatic wash cloths and refreshing water. She graciously offered to hold some bags while we went to another island for a couple of nights. And she offered to send our laundry out so it would be ready when we returned. This hotel is near a restaurant that has live music, but it did not bother us at night time. My 6’4” husband would have preferred to have a bed that was a little longer, but he survived. We loved this hotel and would definitely stay there again!

Authenticity & Character
Beautifully appointed island hotel.
Location
Close to shopping, restaurants, walking distance to everything important.
Staff
Jessica, and the girl who was in charge of the breakfast buffet were SO friendly and helpful!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Nice to have a couch in the room! Everything was spiffy clean!
Isamar Hotel
Puerto Villamil, Isla Isabela

We loved this little cabana style hotel. It is right on the beach, and we could always hear the surf. The staff was intent on making us feel at home while we were there. The breakfast was good. They always had coffee in the “lobby” while the reception was open. HUGE beach blankets in each room for use on the white sandy beaches. Other good food prepared to order as desired.

Authenticity & Character
Cute cabana style hotel. Very beachy!
Location
Right on the beach, but not too far to walk into “town” multiple times!
Staff
Extremely nice and helpful!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Great air conditioning in the rooms, good maid service as well. Loved the homey lobby where we were welcome at all hours.
Activity Reviews
Transfer Baltra Airport - Puerto Ayora with visit to the highlands of Santa Cruz
Transfer Baltra Airport - Puerto Ayora with visit to the highlands of Santa Cruz
Galapagos Islands

Indira Torres met us at the airport and she endeared herself to us immediately. Could not have been happier with our escort. She knew exactly what she was doing, and handled everything. We loved the trip to the highlands to see the turtles! And the lunch was fantastic!

Quality of Experience
Indira Torres made everything so interesting!
Food
Every meal that KimKim arranged was great! Loved the sandwiches even, on our wetlands/beach day.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Their sincere interest in us, and appreciation of our tips.
Transport
Comfortable minivan and/taxi trucks.
Visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station
Visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station
Puerto Ayora

It was so hot and humid, but we enjoyed seeing all of the tortoises and learning about Lonely George. We were flagging from the heat and having gotten up so early, but we got there before the crowds and enjoyed seeing and learning about everything.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Visit the Flamingo Lagoon
Visit the Flamingo Lagoon
Galapagos Islands

Only six flamingos when we were there, but I guess we were lucky to see any at all. I didn’t realize that they were so transient.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Snorkeling at Las Tintoreras
Snorkeling at Las Tintoreras
Galapagos Islands

This was a highlight of the trip!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Tito was great!
Transport
Great boat staff.
Guided Hike to Tortuga Bay & Free Afternoon
Guided Hike to Tortuga Bay & Free Afternoon
Galapagos Islands

Again, it was hot. But this is a great hiking path, and not too difficult. The hardest part is hiking up to the entrance of the path. There are a couple of shady places to stop and rest. Not much wildlife to see…a few birds. The flora is more interesting here. The last kilometer is on a beautiful sandy beach, where there are plenty of marine iguanas. It is sandy, but not difficult to walk on barefooted. There are a couple of places for snorkeling and swimming, which are a wonderful way to end the activity.

Quality of Experience
Indira Torres was, as usual a charming and witty guide.
Food
Great sack lunch (sandwich) from a local deli.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
The boat ride back was fun and a relief!
Local specialist: Linda Schulz
Linda
Linda Schulz
Local specialist in Quito | Replied on Dec 01, 2023

Hi Cindy,
I am so happy to hear that you've had a fantastic time on the Galapagos Islands! Even though you only had five days available, you could see and do a lot, and will get back home with many unforgettable memories. It truly was a pleasure to help you organize your trip! I will make sure to forward your kind words and credits to all the guides and people involved on Galapagos.
It would be great to welcome you back one day so that you can explore the other beautiful islands the archipelago has to offer!
All the best for you and your family,
Linda