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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
View article

Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Galapagos Islands
Travel specialist Mathias Onisseit
active 1 min 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 48 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...

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Travel specialist Tamer Obeid
active 42 mins 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 3 mins 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

Excellent Ecuador trip
Galapagos Islands | Feb 15 - Feb 23, 2024

E
Erin T.
Canada | Reviewed on Mar 13, 2024

Good planning by Mathias. Everything went smoothly. Our guide in Quito was knowledgeable, and accommodating to our requests
The five day cruise booked in Galapagos was excellent

Local specialist: Mathias Onisseit
Mathias
Mathias Onisseit
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Mar 15, 2024

Dear Erin,

Thanks a lot for your feedback! I'm happy to hear that everything went smoothly during your trip, including the interesting and flexible city tour in Quito and the wonderful cruise in the Galapagos. If you have any future travel plans for exploring the mainland of Ecuador (Andes, Rainforest, Pacific Coast), please don't hesitate to reach out!

Always safe travels,
Mathias and the team from Authentic Ecuador

Fantastic!
Galapagos Islands | Feb 24 - Mar 2, 2024

S
Siana Z.
Hackensack, NJ | Reviewed on Mar 05, 2024

This company was great in planning around our preferences and making sure that everything ran smoothly. I appreciate Lucia's help in coordinating the trip and making our dreams come true! Fantastic experience!

Local specialist: Lucia Cazar
Lucia
Lucia Cazar
Local specialist in Ecuador | Replied on Mar 07, 2024

Dear Siana,
I want to thank you for this fantastic review. I am delighted that you enjoyed the tour of Ecuador and that I was able to achieve your desire on this trip. If you want to come back, I would gladly plan another trip. I will be pleased to assist you.

Thank you again for your visit to Ecuador.
Warm regards.
Lucía

Ecuador's local specialist Tamer
Galapagos Islands | Feb 6 - Feb 26, 2024

E
Evelyn M.
Foster City, CA | Reviewed on Mar 05, 2024
Tamer was an excellent local specialist. The itinerary he put together was action packed. It's included hiking, volcanoes, waterfalls, culture, local cooking class, and ultimately a 10 days Galápagos Islands cruise. We enjoyed everything.
The cruise experience was unforgettable. So much wildlife and beautiful landscapes.
Tamer followed up with us on a daily basis to ensure that we were having a great time, and if we needed anything, he assisted on a timely manner.
Sebastian Alejandro, our...
Read more

Tamer was an excellent local specialist. The itinerary he put together was action packed. It's included hiking, volcanoes, waterfalls, culture, local cooking class, and ultimately a 10 days Galápagos Islands cruise. We enjoyed everything.
The cruise experience was unforgettable. So much wildlife and beautiful landscapes.
Tamer followed up with us on a daily basis to ensure that we were having a great time, and if we needed anything, he assisted on a timely manner.
Sebastian Alejandro, our local guide was kind, knowledgeable, attentive to our needs. Without him, I would not make it to the Cotopaxi National Park Refugio. It was a tough and challenging hike, but Sebastian guided me every step of the way.
He was patient and funny at the same time.
I highly recommend the local specialist Tamer and the local guide Sebastian, for Ecuador's travel experience.

Hotel Reviews
Wyndham Quito Airport
Quito

We were happy that hotel staff allowed us to come back to our room after checkout because our flight got delayed. We were able to take a nap, breakfast and later shuttle to the airport. We truly appreciated it.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
M/Y Monserrat
Quito

We recommend replacement of blue and yellow life jackets. Some of them look pretty worn out and some yellow ones, not working properly at all. Also for the amount of people, having extra kayaks available would be a good asset as well, less waiting time for usage. We recommend hand sanitizers station near all stairways, to avoid transmitting germs between passengers.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Fernando the bartender and waiter, portrays excellent customer service. Always smiling and attentive. Javier, the guide was very knowledgeable about wildlife in general and landscaping. Very encouraging when I was scared to do snorkeling, since I don't know how to swim.
Cleanliness & Comfort
We enjoyed the cabin maid towel special decorations.
Hotel Spa Miramelindo
Baños

Location needs ceiling fans or AC, the room was pretty warm. Surroundings gardens and general atmosphere nice and beautiful. Good food at the restaurant.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ceiling fans or AC installation for better room temperature
Cuello de Luna Mountain Lodge
El Chasqui - Pastocalle

Rustic and remote location, quiet.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Too much dog's poops on the area, easy to step on by accident
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hacienda Pinsaqui
Otavalo

Old historical hacienda, beautiful gardens and surroundings

Authenticity & Character
Old history behind.
Location
Remote and quiet
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ikala Quito Hotel
Quito

Clean, friendly staff, especially the hotel manager Eulalia, who gave us tips on local sightseeing in Quito. Safe and good location, walking distance from El Mariscal Artesanias Mercado (marketplace).

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The overall hotel lobby, surroundings and rooms
Activity Reviews
Transfer to the airport for your flight back home (Departure)
Transfer to the airport for your flight back home (Departure)
Ecuador
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Black Turtle Cove (Santa Cruz Island) – Baltra Island Airport
Black Turtle Cove (Santa Cruz Island) – Baltra Island Airport
Cruise Ship
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Dragon Hill (Santa Cruz Island) - Chinese Hat
Dragon Hill (Santa Cruz Island) - Chinese Hat
Cruise Ship
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Charles Darwin Station - Eden Islet/Ballena Bay
Charles Darwin Station - Eden Islet/Ballena Bay
Cruise Ship
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Cormorant Point - Post Office Bay (Floreana Island)
Cormorant Point - Post Office Bay (Floreana Island)
Galapagos Islands
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Española: Gardner Bay - Suarez Point
Española: Gardner Bay - Suarez Point
Galapagos Islands
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Lobos Island - Tijeretas Hill & Interpretation Center (San Cristobal Island)
Lobos Island - Tijeretas Hill & Interpretation Center (San Cristobal Island)
Galapagos Islands

Watching wildlife was amazing. Hiking would been a better choice, but we understand the changes in the itinerary due to the Avian flu situation.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Punta Pitt - Witch Hill (San Cristobal Island)
Punta Pitt - Witch Hill (San Cristobal Island)
Galapagos Islands
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
South Plaza - Santa Fe Island
South Plaza - Santa Fe Island
Cruise Ship
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Rabida Island - Bartolomé Island
Rabida Island - Bartolomé Island
Cruise Ship
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Arrival to Baltra Airport - Transfer to Cruise Ship & Santa Cruz Highlands
Arrival to Baltra Airport - Transfer to Cruise Ship & Santa Cruz Highlands
Galapagos Islands
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The airport transfer to the cruise ship was disorganized.
Transport
Reconnecting with Nature: Embrace Serenity and Adventure in Baños de Agua Santa
Reconnecting with Nature: Embrace Serenity and Adventure in Baños de Agua Santa
Baños

Another moderately strenuous hike, but totally worthy to experience the beautiful waterfall.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Cotopaxi National Park - Quilotoa Lagoon - Baños
Cotopaxi National Park - Quilotoa Lagoon - Baños
Ecuador

Tough hike to the bottom to the Lagoon, but totally worthy. The experience of riding a horse up to the beginning of the trail was unforgettable. Beautiful Lagoon.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Quito - Cotopaxi National Park
Quito - Cotopaxi National Park
Ecuador

Tough hike to the Refugio with heavy winds, rain and hail. Sebastian encouraged me to complete it all to the way to the top. Without his assistance, I don't think I would been able to do it. The Cotopaxi Volcano view was spectacular. Here we saw the Andean wolf, deer and more birds.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Hiking La Mica Lagoon at Antisana National Park
Hiking La Mica Lagoon at Antisana National Park
Ecuador

I was affected by the altitude so I was not able to complete the whole hike, but I was able to enjoy the beautiful landscape. We saw numerous birds, white-tip deer and condors.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Cuicocha Lagoon - Cotacachi - Otavalo Hacienda
Cuicocha Lagoon - Cotacachi - Otavalo Hacienda
Galapagos Islands
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Colonial City Tour, Cooking Class & the Middle of the World Monument
Colonial City Tour, Cooking Class & the Middle of the World Monument
Quito

We really enjoyed the cooking class, although it took longer than we expected, so we got a bit late for the Mitad del Mundo monument tour. We saw the new one, but the original monument site was closed, so we saw it from the distance.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Tamer Obeid
Tamer
Tamer Obeid
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Mar 06, 2024
My dear Evelyn and Griselda,
It's meeting wonderful people like you and being part of their travel experiences and memories that make our job so special! I can't tell you how happy I am knowing that you have enjoyed the beautiful highlands of Ecuador and had an incredible adventure in the Galapagos Islands; as you said, Evelyn, you need a vacation after this vacation hahaha
I will make sure to convey your positive feedback to all our providers, including our wonderful guide Sebastian, as well...
Read more

My dear Evelyn and Griselda,
It's meeting wonderful people like you and being part of their travel experiences and memories that make our job so special! I can't tell you how happy I am knowing that you have enjoyed the beautiful highlands of Ecuador and had an incredible adventure in the Galapagos Islands; as you said, Evelyn, you need a vacation after this vacation hahaha
I will make sure to convey your positive feedback to all our providers, including our wonderful guide Sebastian, as well as the comments that can help some providers improve their services.
Evelyn, you know you have a forever friend in Quito, you can always count on us here at Kimkim to plan gorgeous experiences for you :)
Hope to see you again!
Yours,
Tamer