Personalized trips to Galapagos Islands
for independent travelers

How it works
Chat with specialist icon Step 1
Tell us what kind of trip you want
Complete our quick travel quiz
Chat icons Step 2
Chat with a local travel specialist
Work out the details together
Credit card icon Step 3
Securely book your trip
100% satisfaction guaranteed

Travelers love kimkim

- ., traveled to in

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.

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 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...

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
(7)
· 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,...
Cruise Ship
Boutique Expedition Legend
5.0
(4)
· Upscale
Embark on an unforgettable journey aboard the M/V Galápagos Legend, a luxury cruise ship designed for adventure and comfort. Redesigned in 2016, this ship offers a range of first-class amenities, including restaurants, bars, lounges, a library, a fitness center, and an auditorium. The ship's...
Photo courtesy of Finch Bay Galápagos Hotel
Isla Santa Cruz
Finch Bay Galápagos Hotel
5.0
(3)
· 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,...

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
View article
Map 5 Days in the Galápagos Islands - 4 Unique Itineraries
5 Days in the Galápagos Islands - 4 Unique Itineraries
View article
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 Alvaro Pereira
active 1 min 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 2 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 Linda Schulz
active 3 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...
Travel specialist Isabel Pérez
active 3 hours 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...

read more...

Related Destinations

Travelers who visit Galapagos Islands also visit these destinations

Trip Reviews for Galapagos Islands

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Beautiful vacation
Galapagos Islands | Jul 12 - Jul 18, 2025

Paul
Paul L.
Portland, OR | Reviewed on Aug 03, 2025
Everything worked out very smoothly. Great communication, putting something together for us. Last minute was pretty miraculous. Highly recommend! Beautiful place and saw and did almost everything we wanted to do.. Read more

Everything worked out very smoothly. Great communication, putting something together for us. Last minute was pretty miraculous. Highly recommend! Beautiful place and saw and did almost everything we wanted to do..

Hotel Review
Casa Pimampiro
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno

Extremely friendly and helpful owners. The Wi-Fi was not very good at all.

Authenticity & Character
Older but authentic
Location
Quite a steep hill to climb to get back to the hotel
Staff
Always helpful and always friendly. I don’t think you could ask for a better staff.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Just an older place and I never had hot water in the bathroom
Local specialist: Ariel Chasi
Ariel
Ariel Chasi
Local specialist in Quito | Replied on Aug 04, 2025

Dear Paul,

Thank you so much for your kind words! I'm glad everything came together smoothly and that you enjoyed exploring the Galapagos Islands. It was a pleasure helping you plan this adventure, especially on short notice. We always do our best to assist, even for last-minute trips. Thanks again for trusting us to organize your vacation. 😄

Wishing you all the best,
Ariel

Galapagos Father and son trip
Galapagos Islands | Jul 11 - Jul 18, 2025

H
Hicham K.
Birmingham, MI | Reviewed on Jul 20, 2025
Our 6-day Galápagos trip with kimkim, visiting San Cristobal, Isabela, and Santa Cruz, was outstanding in every aspect. Organization was seamless—transfers, ferries, and daily excursions all went flawlessly, and every detail was coordinated in advance, making the experience truly worry-free. The hotels were comfortable, clean, and charming, with attentive staff at each location.
Excursions and guides were a highlight: we explored iconic wildlife sites, went snorkeling with turtles and...
Read more

Our 6-day Galápagos trip with kimkim, visiting San Cristobal, Isabela, and Santa Cruz, was outstanding in every aspect. Organization was seamless—transfers, ferries, and daily excursions all went flawlessly, and every detail was coordinated in advance, making the experience truly worry-free. The hotels were comfortable, clean, and charming, with attentive staff at each location.
Excursions and guides were a highlight: we explored iconic wildlife sites, went snorkeling with turtles and penguins, and enjoyed insightful guided tours to giant tortoise reserves and the Charles Darwin Research Station. The guides were exceptionally knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and engaging, making each activity both fun and educational. Special thanks to Viviana in Santa Cruz!!!
In Quito, the service quality continued at the same high standard. Special mention goes to Matteo, who was especially helpful—offering insightful guidance, arranging smooth logistics, and enhancing our city experience with his expertise and friendliness.
We highly recommend kimkim for a Galápagos and Quito adventure—well organized, reliable, with excellent guides, great service, and memorable experiences from start to finish

Local specialist: Jacquie Granda
Jacquie
Jacquie Granda
Local specialist in Quito - Ecuador | Replied on Jul 26, 2025
Thank you so much for sharing your experience! We're so happy to hear that your 6-day Galápagos adventure with kimkim exceeded expectations. Delivering seamless organization and unforgettable experiences is at the heart of what we do. It's fantastic to know that transfers, excursions, and accommodations all met your standards, ensuring a worry-free trip. Our team takes pride in selecting comfortable hotels and providing knowledgeable guides who enhance each excursion with their expertise... Read more

Thank you so much for sharing your experience!

We're so happy to hear that your 6-day Galápagos adventure with kimkim exceeded expectations. Delivering seamless organization and unforgettable experiences is at the heart of what we do. It's fantastic to know that transfers, excursions, and accommodations all met your standards, ensuring a worry-free trip.

Our team takes pride in selecting comfortable hotels and providing knowledgeable guides who enhance each excursion with their expertise and enthusiasm. Viviana and Matteo will be delighted to hear they made your journey even more memorable with their outstanding service.

We appreciate your recommendation and look forward to welcoming you back for more explorations in the future!

Best regards,
Jacquie and Team

KUDOS to Ms. Jacquie Granda! (Ecuador/Galápagos trip)
Galapagos Islands | Jun 22 - Jul 3, 2025

Rica & Nikki
Rica & Nikki J.
Palo Alto, CA | Reviewed on Jul 15, 2025
Ms. Jacquie Granda, you are God sent. We thank you so much for arranging our amazing trip to Ecuador/ Galápagos. We had an absolutely incredible time and everything went so smoothly. The airport transfers were seamless. The hotels you recommended were extraordinary. The activities and restaurants you suggested were perfect! The guides (especially David, Ruben and James) provided great service, knowledge and guidance. The whole itinerary you created for us was spot on! For all your hard work... Read more

Ms. Jacquie Granda, you are God sent. We thank you so much for arranging our amazing trip to Ecuador/ Galápagos. We had an absolutely incredible time and everything went so smoothly. The airport transfers were seamless. The hotels you recommended were extraordinary. The activities and restaurants you suggested were perfect! The guides (especially David, Ruben and James) provided great service, knowledge and guidance. The whole itinerary you created for us was spot on! For all your hard work and precise attention to details, THANK YOU, you rock! 🤘🏼 YOU will definitely hear from us on our future south america travels/trips. #highlyrecommended ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Hotel Reviews
Ikala Galapagos Hotel
Puerto Ayora

The hotel speaks great service, comfort, cleanliness and professionalism! our stay was incredible!

Authenticity & Character
Location
geographically spot on!
Staff
Shoutout to Christian for excellent service! 🫶🏼 Always dependable and attentive to guests’ needs!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Swissotel Quito
Quito

Staff service, Food, Cleanliness, Comfort Professionalism - five star! ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Exploring the Santa Cruz Highlands & Charles Darwin Research Station
Exploring the Santa Cruz Highlands & Charles Darwin Research Station
Galapagos Islands

Seeing the giant tortoises just walking hand in hand with humans was a surreal experience. It's something you usually only see in a zoo, but here, they're just not bothered at all by human presence. Highly recommend!

Afternoon Bay Tour in Santa Cruz
Afternoon Bay Tour in Santa Cruz
Puerto Ayora

The Afternoon Bay Tour in Santa Cruz was truly unforgettable. The snorkeling was spectacular, and helped make it the perfect nature-focused activity.

Local specialist: Alvaro Pereira
Alvaro
Alvaro Pereira
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Jul 15, 2025
Dear Rica, Nikki, and Harry, I was so happy to receive your lovely review! I’ve been truly grateful from the very beginning to have had the chance to plan this unique and special journey for all of you. As I promised, "You loved Ecuador".
It’s fantastic to know that you enjoyed every second of your stay, especially knowing that you visited places I knew would enrich your experience in my country, which is now your country too.
From the gastronomy, landscapes, and guiding staff, to the... Read more

Dear Rica, Nikki, and Harry,

I was so happy to receive your lovely review! I’ve been truly grateful from the very beginning to have had the chance to plan this unique and special journey for all of you. As I promised, "You loved Ecuador".
It’s fantastic to know that you enjoyed every second of your stay, especially knowing that you visited places I knew would enrich your experience in my country, which is now your country too.

From the gastronomy, landscapes, and guiding staff, to the tastings, mocktails, Harry's Birthday, table football (foosball), and of course, the strategic opportunities to encounter wildlife and biodiversity, like the surprise in Pomasquinde, and of course a lot of more memories. I’m delighted everything contributed to a meaningful adventure.

Thank you so much for keeping your sense of wonder and for being such wonderful travelers. Your kindness, your beautiful family spirit, your generosity in sharing moments beyond the program, and most of all, your trust, mean the world to me.
I would be honored to support your future adventures, without a doubt!

Next time, Ecuador with your mother, and wherever your next journeys take you, it will always be my pleasure to help.

Warmest regards,

Your Ecuadorian Friends,
Alvaro, Jacquie and the Responsible Travel Team

Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan
Customize your trip with the help of a local travel specialist

Kimkim has handpicked the world’s top local travel specialists so you will have peace of mind and an unforgettable trip that meets your exact requirements.

Authentic travel experiences

Kimkim’s local specialists ensure that you will have the best experience based on up-to-date local insights. On top of that, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies.

Secure & easy booking

Once you are happy with the trip, you can easily book via kimkim’s secure payment platform.

Local support during your trip

You can always reach your local specialist with a quick message or call in case you hit a snag during your trip, or simply want some great local recommendations.