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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

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 Alvaro Pereira
active 2 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...

read more...
Travel specialist Mathias Onisseit
active 7 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...

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Travel specialist Linda Schulz
active 1 day 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...

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Travel specialist Isabel Pérez
active 52 mins ago

Isabel Pérez

I'm passionate about exploring incredible places and having unique experiences. It's been 8 years since I moved to Ecuador, my family's country of origin, and since then I've had the most amazing...

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Trip Reviews for Galapagos Islands

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Our bucket list trip to the Galapagos was unforgettable
Galapagos Islands | Mar 17 - Mar 26, 2025

J
Joanne F.
Bridgewater, NJ | Reviewed on Apr 07, 2025
Karla was very responsive to our questions and needs. The excursions and especially snorkeling was amazing. All guides were wonderful and Isabella and specifically Julio were wonderful. Very educational and provided the info we needed to be on time for every thing and on what to wear. I loved Los tunélles snorkeling the best as we liked seeing the penguins. Read more

Karla was very responsive to our questions and needs. The excursions and especially snorkeling was amazing. All guides were wonderful and Isabella and specifically Julio were wonderful. Very educational and provided the info we needed to be on time for every thing and on what to wear. I loved Los tunélles snorkeling the best as we liked seeing the penguins.

Hotel Review
La Casita de la Playa
Puerto Villamil

Loved having a view of the beach where we could watch the sea lions investigating the beach

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

My favorite with such a variety of wildlife…including penguins!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Karla Guerrero
Karla
Karla Guerrero
Local specialist in Ecuador | Replied on Apr 07, 2025

Hi Joanne,

I'm so happy to hear that you and the group made such wonderful memories in Ecuador and the enchanting Galapagos Islands! It truly means a lot. Thank you so much for trusting us to create this special journey for you.

Warm regards,
Karla

Thank you, Paola, for helping us with our ama...
Galapagos Islands | Mar 21 - Mar 30, 2025

CHRISTINE
CHRISTINE E.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Apr 04, 2025
Thank you, Paola, for helping us with our amazing trip to Galapagos and Quito!
Some highlights:
- Cooking class in Quito
- Quito city tour with Christian - terrific guide! As was his uncle ;)!
- Santa Cruz highland tour with visit to tortoises!
- Trip to Bartolomé island
- Isabella snorkeling at Los Túneles - Luis was a terrific guide. We learned a lot from him
- Biking in National Park on Isabella - Thank you to John!
The hotel accommodations were all wonderful
- La Casona de La...
Read more

Thank you, Paola, for helping us with our amazing trip to Galapagos and Quito!
Some highlights:
- Cooking class in Quito
- Quito city tour with Christian - terrific guide! As was his uncle ;)!
- Santa Cruz highland tour with visit to tortoises!
- Trip to Bartolomé island
- Isabella snorkeling at Los Túneles - Luis was a terrific guide. We learned a lot from him
- Biking in National Park on Isabella - Thank you to John!

The hotel accommodations were all wonderful
- La Casona de La Ronda in Quito
- Ikala Galapagos on Santa Cruz
- La Casita de la Playa on Isabella

Only hiccup was not knowing we needed to pay the National Park Fee when we landed in Baltra Airport in Santa Cruz. Would recommend making that clear to future travelers! Thank you!

Chris

Hotel Reviews
La Casona de La Ronda
Quito

Friendly staff, good breakfast, great location

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

Beautiful pool and rooms! Wonderful restaurant view!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
La Casita de la Playa
Puerto Villamil

BEAUTIFUL Location and view.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Quito City Tour - Middle of the World
Quito City Tour - Middle of the World
Quito

Christian was a wonderful guide. Loved our day in Quito.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Quito Cooking Class
Quito Cooking Class
Galapagos Islands

One of our highlights! Really fun - chef is passionate about Ecuadorian food. Excellent dinner

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transfer to Quito Airport, Arrival to Galapagos & Highlands of Santa Cruz
Transfer to Quito Airport, Arrival to Galapagos & Highlands of Santa Cruz
Galapagos Islands
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kayaking & Snorkeling at Las Tintoreras
Kayaking & Snorkeling at Las Tintoreras
Galapagos Islands
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Snorkeling/kayaking guide struggled with English - would have liked more information about the animals
Transport
Excursion to an uninhabited island
Excursion to an uninhabited island
Galapagos Islands

Beautiful day - long boat ride

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

We had a rainy day, so we couldn't hike past the first view point.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guide struggled a bit with English - would have like a bit more information.
Transport
Snorkel at Los Túneles
Snorkel at Los Túneles
Galapagos Islands

Best experience on our trip!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Luis was the best!
Transport
Local specialist: Paola Vera Feijoo
Paola
Paola Vera Feijoo
Local specialist in Quito | Replied on Apr 15, 2025
Hi Chris, Thank you so much for your lovely message! It truly makes my day to hear that you, Tom, and Suzie had such a wonderful trip to the Galápagos and Quito. I’m so happy you enjoyed all the special moments, from the cooking class and the city tour with Christian to the amazing island adventures with Luis and John. I’m also really glad to hear you were happy with the hotels, each one was chosen with care, and it's great to know they added to your experience. And thank you for the note... Read more

Hi Chris,

Thank you so much for your lovely message! It truly makes my day to hear that you, Tom, and Suzie had such a wonderful trip to the Galápagos and Quito. I’m so happy you enjoyed all the special moments, from the cooking class and the city tour with Christian to the amazing island adventures with Luis and John.

I’m also really glad to hear you were happy with the hotels, each one was chosen with care, and it's great to know they added to your experience.

And thank you for the note about the National Park Fee. That’s super helpful, and I’ll definitely make sure to point that out more clearly for future travelers.

It was such a pleasure helping you plan this adventure, and I hope our paths cross again on another trip someday :)

Warmest wishes,
Paola

Machu Pichu and Galapogos Trip 2025 Our trip was wonderful! All details were tak...
Galapagos Islands | Mar 15 - Mar 24, 2025

Norma
Norma G.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Apr 03, 2025
Our trip was wonderful! All details were taken care of. All transport services were on time. Hotels were very nice. Guides were excellent, so knowledgeable and helpful. Would definitely book another trip through KimKim. Read more

Our trip was wonderful! All details were taken care of. All transport services were on time. Hotels were very nice. Guides were excellent, so knowledgeable and helpful. Would definitely book another trip through KimKim.

Activity Reviews
Cusco City Tour
Cusco City Tour
Cusco
Quality of Experience
Guide
Food
Very nice restaurants and good food.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
History and information by the guide.
Transport
Crown Jewel of Peru: Machu Picchu Sanctuary
Crown Jewel of Peru: Machu Picchu Sanctuary
Peru

Loved the train ride to Machu Picchu and the whole experience of being able to hike through the ruins.

Quality of Experience
Food
All food!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
All drivers nice and on time.
Transport
Wildlife Encountering at Lobos Island
Wildlife Encountering at Lobos Island
Galapagos Islands

Loved the snorkeling and the baby sea lions that played with us!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
History and Nature: Full Day to Floreana Island
History and Nature: Full Day to Floreana Island
Puerto Ayora

Beautiful island and black sand beach. Saw turtles while snorkeling, baby sea lion and a marine iguana swimming and out on the beach.

Quality of Experience
Mo
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Maria Jose Jaramillo
Maria Jose
Maria Jose Jaramillo
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Apr 03, 2025

Dear Norma,

That's so wonderful to hear! Creating unforgettable memories together at Machu Picchu and the Galápagos Islands must have been an incredible adventure. How beautiful that you were able to share such special moments as a family!

Thank you for trusting us to plan such a meaningful trip. We are so happy to hear that everything went perfectly, and it will be a pleasure to help you organize your next adventure whenever you're ready.

A big hug to you, Deborah and McKenna!

Best regards,
Majo

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