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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.

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
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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 14 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 2 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 2 days 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 1 day 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...

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Trip Reviews for Galapagos Islands

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Exceptional planning and service from Kimkim team!
Galapagos Islands | May 29 - Jun 6, 2025

Clyde
Clyde H.
Boston, MA | Reviewed on Jun 15, 2025
We would like to share the positive experience we had with Kimkim Tours. We typically like to make our own travel plans and steer away from group tours and/or cruises that have preset “boiler plate” itineraries. Yet, with the choice to go to the Galapagos Islands during our semi-retirement years, as well as the realization that there might be a language barrier, we decided to research tour options. Kimkim seemed like a good choice for us. We were impressed with the time that Alvaro, and... Read more

We would like to share the positive experience we had with Kimkim Tours. We typically like to make our own travel plans and steer away from group tours and/or cruises that have preset “boiler plate” itineraries. Yet, with the choice to go to the Galapagos Islands during our semi-retirement years, as well as the realization that there might be a language barrier, we decided to research tour options. Kimkim seemed like a good choice for us.

We were impressed with the time that Alvaro, and especially Steven, took to understand our individual needs. The interaction started with us filling out a detailed questionnaire detailing our interests, how we preferred to travel, what we wanted to see, our preferences on lodging (from simple hostels to premium hotels) as well as our ages, physical abilities and budget considerations. Kimkim put together a suggested itinerary, We were able give them input on the plan and they made adjustments given our feedback. After a few iterations, we finally agreed our itinerary! Kimkim then went to work on booking our hotels, transportation (including transfers) and daily tours.

We cannot say enough about the exceptional service both during the planning process as well as “on the ground” during our travels. Kimkim provided exceptional service, well-planned itineraries, and smooth travel experiences. We received personalized attention, experienced a helpful and responsive staff, and a seamless booking process. Communications both before and during the trip were efficient and reliable. The local guides and contacts were extremely knowledgeable and helpful and provided valuable insights and direction.

It is also notable to mention that late in the planning and payment process, we experienced a personal health issue that might have affected the trip and excursions we had planned. Steven and Alvaro were understanding and allowed us some extra time to tighten our plans and pay our deposits while always communicating and check-in in on us. In addition, we needed to make a few changes to our plans during the trip and Steven/Alvara/Rita worked together to accommodate our unique circumstance. We appreciated this personal attention and professionalism!

Local specialist: Alvaro Pereira
Alvaro
Alvaro Pereira
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Jun 17, 2025
Hello Clyde, Thank you so much for taking the time to share your thoughtful and detailed review! It truly means a lot to us that you chose to trust Kimkim—and our local team—for such a meaningful journey to the Galapagos during this special chapter of your lives. We’re so happy to know that our personalized approach resonated with you and that the collaborative planning process helped shape a trip that reflected your unique travel style and needs. It was a pleasure working closely with... Read more

Hello Clyde,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your thoughtful and detailed review! It truly means a lot to us that you chose to trust Kimkim—and our local team—for such a meaningful journey to the Galapagos during this special chapter of your lives.

We’re so happy to know that our personalized approach resonated with you and that the collaborative planning process helped shape a trip that reflected your unique travel style and needs. It was a pleasure working closely with you—from the early stages of customizing your itinerary to supporting you during your travels.

We especially appreciate your kind words about the support during your unexpected health situation and the flexibility needed along the way. Steven, Rita, and I were more than happy to assist and ensure everything ran smoothly.

Thank you again for choosing to travel with us. We hope to welcome you again for another adventure in South America!

Hugs from the middle of the world,
Alvaro

Trip of a Lifetime
Galapagos Islands | May 10 - May 19, 2025

K
Karen L.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on May 25, 2025
Alvaro & Jose planned & executed an extraordinary trip. All the plane and boat transportation, 5 hotels! and the incredible adventures. Our restrictions, no problem, our last minute changes, no problem. Responsive from first contact, to every little nitpicking question we came up with.
Guide Romero, amazing, great information & so considerate - Highlands giant tortoises, Charles Darwin Research & bonus Lava Tunnel! Guide Bebe, wonderful and trip to Lava Java fascinating and fun. Uninhabited...
Read more

Alvaro & Jose planned & executed an extraordinary trip. All the plane and boat transportation, 5 hotels! and the incredible adventures. Our restrictions, no problem, our last minute changes, no problem. Responsive from first contact, to every little nitpicking question we came up with.
Guide Romero, amazing, great information & so considerate - Highlands giant tortoises, Charles Darwin Research & bonus Lava Tunnel! Guide Bebe, wonderful and trip to Lava Java fascinating and fun. Uninhabited Island, perfect boat ride and guide to the top of island, again so much fascinating information and the view, unbelievable. Isabel Island, coordinatot Julio, could spend a day with him, he really took care of us. Tinoreras Islet, what a hike near lava formations to a lagoon, sharks, sea turtles, magical. Volcano hike, worth every mile to see the lava cone, Guide Julio, so patient, so fascinating in his own right. Back in town saw flamingos! Lobos Island, hike over lava rocks to see incredible wildlife, blue-footed boobie with her egg! Back to Quito, a city worth exploring.

Seriously, the trip of a lifetime, made possible by Alvaro, Jose and the wonderful people of Equador ♥️

Hotel Reviews
Swissotel Quito
Quito

Top-notch hotel, comfortable room, great food, really wonderful and helpful staff.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Casa de Nelly
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno

Lovely room, good breakfast, great staff.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Gran Hotel Tintorera
Puerto Villamil

Very pleasant room, excellent breakfast, great staff.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Lava House Galapagos
Puerto Ayora

Nice comfortable room, good breakfast, great staff.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ilatoa Lodge
Quito

Didn't get to spend enough time there, but great venue, wonderful owner.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Welcome to Ecuador: Let Your Adventure Begin!
Welcome to Ecuador: Let Your Adventure Begin!
Galapagos Islands
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Alvaro Pereira
Alvaro
Alvaro Pereira
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Jun 02, 2025
Hello Karen, Thank you so much for your incredibly kind and detailed review! It means the world to us to hear that your journey through Ecuador and the Galápagos was everything you hoped for—and more. We loved crafting this experience for you, and we’re thrilled that each moment, from the Highlands tortoises to the volcano hike, brought joy and wonder. We’re especially happy to know that our local guides—Romero, Bebe, and Julio—left such a strong impression with their care and knowledge,... Read more

Hello Karen,

Thank you so much for your incredibly kind and detailed review! It means the world to us to hear that your journey through Ecuador and the Galápagos was everything you hoped for—and more.

We loved crafting this experience for you, and we’re thrilled that each moment, from the Highlands tortoises to the volcano hike, brought joy and wonder. We’re especially happy to know that our local guides—Romero, Bebe, and Julio—left such a strong impression with their care and knowledge, we will convey this to them as well.

Thank you for trusting us with your adventure, your flexibility, and your spirit of exploration. You’ll always have a home here in Ecuador. ♥️

Best regards,
Alvaro and Team

Top notch travel agency
Galapagos Islands | Jul 1 - Jul 10, 2026

A
Amy S.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on May 17, 2025
Kimkim and Link Experiences planed a trip to the Galapagos for is in May 2025. Everything about their service was top notch. They planned our air from Quito to Santa Cruz, all our transfers, ferries, hotels and excursions. When our US flight was delayed by a day due to weather they immediately changed our Quito flight, all transfers, hotels and excursions. They made everything so painless for us. They had a representative waiting for us any time we traveled or did an excursion. They even... Read more

Kimkim and Link Experiences planed a trip to the Galapagos for is in May 2025. Everything about their service was top notch. They planned our air from Quito to Santa Cruz, all our transfers, ferries, hotels and excursions. When our US flight was delayed by a day due to weather they immediately changed our Quito flight, all transfers, hotels and excursions. They made everything so painless for us. They had a representative waiting for us any time we traveled or did an excursion. They even helped us through the complexity of checking in at the Quito airport. We stayed on Santa Cruz for two nights and Isabella for three nights. On Santa Cruz we had a private guide (Reuben) who was so knowledgeable and friendly. He took us to a local ranch to see the giant tortoises and have a nice lunch then to the lava tunnels. It was fantastic. The next day we snorkeled and swam at Tortuga Bay. There were iguanas everywhere. It was beautiful. Then again a nice lunch at a local restaurant then the Charles Darwin research station and more snorkeling nearby. We stayed at the Blu Galapagos hotel which was very nice. Then in Isabella we stayed at the Iguana Crossing hotel which was also very nice. We did a shared group Tintoreras tour with some nice snorkeling. Then the next day a shared group Los Tuneles tour which was unbelievable. We saw two blue footed boobies doing their mating dance not more than 3 feet from us. We snorkeled with penguins and lots of sea turtles, also saw some sharks and sea horses. Then on our last day we had another amazing guide (Julio). We did a very informative nature walk to the giant tortoise breeding center. We also saw flamingos in their natural environment. Our only regret is that we didn't stay longer. Travel from San Diego was two days on either end of the trip and with the weather delays in Dallas our travel days were almost as many as our vacation days. In all our future trips we will always look for kimkim, they just made everything so hassle free. And they planned all our excursions, I just vaguely gave advice that we wanted to see wildlife and do some snorkeling and they made sure we hit all the best spots. They even checked us in to our hotels to make sure all was in order. And on days we were traveling or doing an excursion early they made sure we had a box breakfast at the front desk. We LOVE kimkim and Link Experiences.

Local specialist: María Belén Villacrés
María Belén
María Belén Villacrés
Local specialist in Quito | Replied on May 20, 2025
Dear Amy & Rocco, Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful words — we truly appreciate you taking the time to share your experience. It makes us incredibly happy to know that your trip to the Galápagos was so memorable and that everything went smoothly, even with the unexpected flight delay. We're thrilled that you enjoyed the company of our guides, Rubén and Julio, and that you had the chance to witness the incredible wildlife and beauty of the islands. It was a real pleasure to... Read more

Dear Amy & Rocco,

Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful words — we truly appreciate you taking the time to share your experience. It makes us incredibly happy to know that your trip to the Galápagos was so memorable and that everything went smoothly, even with the unexpected flight delay.

We're thrilled that you enjoyed the company of our guides, Rubén and Julio, and that you had the chance to witness the incredible wildlife and beauty of the islands. It was a real pleasure to assist you throughout this adventure.

Sending you both a warm hug from Ecuador — we’ll be here for you whenever you’re ready for your next journey!

Warm regards,

María-Belén & the Link Experiences Team

Why travelers love kimkim

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