Galapagos Islands Safari & Wildlife Trips

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Galapagos Islands Travel Insights

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.

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.

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.

A giant Galápagos tortoise
Map of Island-Hopping in the Galápagos: Santa Cruz & Isabela - 7 Days
Island-Hopping in the Galápagos: Santa Cruz & Isabela - 7 Days

During this Galápagos Islands adventure, you will explore the famous archipelago, swim with playful sea lions, and see giant tortoises up close. The itinerary is land-based, meaning you'll sleep on the islands instead of on a yacht. But you'll still spend plenty of time on the water as you navigate to various islands by speedboat, enjoying hiking, snorkeling, and guided wildlife viewing walks along the journey.

Sea lions in the Galapagos
Cruise the Galapagos Islands - 7 Days

On this weeklong cruise around the Galapagos Islands, you'll travel around the archipelago on a yacht, stopping at various islands for activities led by a naturalist guide. Kayak through pristine waters, snorkel with penguins and sea lions, hike to see blue-footed boobies in the wild, and get up close with giant tortoises.

Admire the wildlife characters you happen upon on your island hopping Galápagos adventure
Map of Best of the Galápagos: Isla San Cristóbal & Isla Santa Cruz - 6 Days
Best of the Galápagos: Isla San Cristóbal & Isla Santa Cruz - 6 Days

Explore the Galápagos by land and sea with this quick trip that focuses on the archipelago's endemic wildlife. Start on Isla San Cristóbal to go bird-watching and snorkel near iconic Kicker Rock, then cruise around the island by boat to enjoy secluded sandy beaches and observe marine life. Hop over to Isla Santa Cruz next to mingle with giant tortoises and witness remarkable biodiversity on a day trip to an uninhabited island.

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Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Galapagos Islands
Travel specialist Maria Jose Jaramillo
active 1 hour ago

Maria Jose Jaramillo

I grew up in a family with roots in different parts of the country. From a young age, I had the chance to travel and explore the culture, history, and nature of Ecuador and South America. These...

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Travel specialist Jacquie Granda
active 1 min ago

Jacquie Granda

I am an Ecuadorian woman, born and raised in Quito, deeply proud of my cultural heritage. I was fortunate to grow up in a lush valley surrounded by mountains, snow-capped volcanoes, thermal...

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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...

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Travel specialist Paola Vera Feijoo
active 2 mins ago

Paola Vera Feijoo

Born and raised in Ecuador, I´m the second of four sisters. I love to make people´s dream vacations come true. Helping travelers to be the happiest is my big desire and, so far, one of my favorite...

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Trip Reviews for Galapagos Islands

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

A wonderful family trip to Galapagos!Just returning from an incredible 10 day fami...
Galapagos Islands | Mar 11 - Mar 22, 2026

Elinore
Elinore J.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Mar 23, 2026
Just returning from an incredible 10 day family trip to Ecuador and Galápagos Islands.
Our planning for this trip started with Alvaro, who worked tirelessly planning a trip that would appeal to all ages and abilities.
The communication with so many “moving parts” , was outstanding!
A short time before our trip was going to start, Alvaro introduced us to Ibeth, who was our contact person until we touched ground back in Canada. I’m not sure if she actually sleeps, because she responded...
Read more

Just returning from an incredible 10 day family trip to Ecuador and Galápagos Islands.
Our planning for this trip started with Alvaro, who worked tirelessly planning a trip that would appeal to all ages and abilities.
The communication with so many “moving parts” , was outstanding!
A short time before our trip was going to start, Alvaro introduced us to Ibeth, who was our contact person until we touched ground back in Canada. I’m not sure if she actually sleeps, because she responded instantly with all questions and requests! We met her on a video call before leaving which was very helpful for all.
Our guides in each and every stop were knowledgeable, kind and extremely flexible with our requests. True professionals!
Matteo, in Quito, communicated to Fabricio in San Cristobal that our youngest granddaughter was showing signs of altitude sickness, so that he was aware and offered a stop at a pharmacy if needed.
Fabricio was so passionate and knowledgeable at the breeding station.
Gabriel, on Isabella Island was the very same when it came to our snorkeling adventures as well. Gabriel was also able to obtain a missing suitcase for our 11 year old- so she didn’t miss out on our snorkel trip - he really came through for us!
As you can see, there is a theme here- kudos to James, Phillipe and Andreas as well!
Our accommodations were perfect for our family- small, family run hotels, with good breakfasts in the am and locations to restaurants, beaches, etc, were excellent.
Thanks to all that made this a once in a lifetime trip for our entire family!

Hotel Reviews
Plaza Luna Suites
Puerto Ayora

This is a gem!! Lovely, quaint accommodations, locally owned and with a history to go with it! Rooms were perfect with amenities well thought out. Breakfast on the terrace was a lovely way to start the day. Beach towels provided, unlimited filtered water and location couldn’t be better

Authenticity & Character
Authentic- but updated so well!
Location
Right on the Main Street, but you didn’t know it until you walked out of the high gate - all right there!
Staff
Delilah (owner) greeted us in a very personal way, learning about her family and their role in th Galápagos Islands. Us
Cleanliness & Comfort
Lovely- even a small communal kitchen area where we used the dishes for a take out dinner one night.
Albemarle
Puerto Villamil

The picture…is exactly the way it looks outside our room - but I would recommend requesting an exterior room. That being said - all the rooms were spacious and clean.

Authenticity & Character
The small pool and gardens were lovely and the rooftop pool view was stunning!
Location
Perfect- on a quiet sandy road - steps away from town!
Staff
Excellent- because of the island holiday celebrations, she warned us of noise/music that would go on quite late and offered ear plugs proactively!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Beach towels and robes provided
SeaSide Hotel
Galapagos

This was a quaint hotel - very quiet - perfect location to local beach and to town as well. It was perfect for a family stay with a small pool outside our door. Breakfast was home cooked and the “honour” fridge was really convenient with soft drinks and beer.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Close to local Beach and restaurants and stores, but secluded.
Staff
Provided towels and bag breakfasts for early morning trips.
Cleanliness & Comfort
The air conditioning worked well
EB Hotel by Eurobuilding Quito
Quito

Relaxing, accommodating hotel! We spent three nights total and we found that staff were very helpful and professional! We were able to store a bag for our return and they found an e-book that was left in the safe! Their complimentary breakfast was 5 Star! My only criticism would be the lack of a wine list - very little choice, considering the abundance of South American wines.

Authenticity & Character
I wouldn’t say it’s authentic decor- but the local roses in the lobby were unbelievable!
Location
Good location for airport - not great for exploring around unless with a taxi.
Staff
Covered in initial review
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Wildlife Encountering at Lobos Island - Family Activities
Wildlife Encountering at Lobos Island - Family Activities
Isla San Cristóbal

This involves a boat ride and a stop at Lobos where we hiked about an 1 1/2 hours - we couldn’t believe our eyes being able to see the male frigate birds with their red expanded breasts hoping to be picked by a female. Also, blue footed boobies, iguanas, baby frigates.

Quality of Experience
The mating Frigates!
Food
Local restaurant - great food!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Very helpful, but there was really no alternative to not have to walk on the unstable rocks.
Transport
Unforgettable Day Trip to Bartolome Island
Unforgettable Day Trip to Bartolome Island
Puerto Ayora

Our last full day in Galapagos and it couldn’t have been more enjoyable! Our family of 8 and 6 others gave us lots of space on a lovely cabin cruiser - with great staff and a delicious lunch!

Quality of Experience
Our skipper was skilled and the ride was smooth and relaxing
Food
A delicious full hot lunch! Very tasty- with a cash bar !
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Philippe was a wealth of information! And for those that did not want to walk up to the top, a zodiac ride around the island - pointing out a baby penguin, baby sea lions and many varieties of sea birds!
Transport
Safe and relaxing
Exclusive Experience at The Agave Route in the Middle of the World!
Exclusive Experience at The Agave Route in the Middle of the World!
Quito

This was our second time to visit - bringing family this time…very cool experience for all ages - during the tasting, our 11 and13 yr old in the group was able to participate as well - with non alcoholic agave tastings.

Quality of Experience
The bartender was the same person as last year and he makes it all very fun during the cocktail making.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
As stated
Transport
Safe and prompt
Visit Intiñan Museum
Visit Intiñan Museum
Quito

Great guides - super experience!

Quality of Experience
The guide!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The guide!
Transport
Good driver
Local specialist: Alvaro Pereira
Alvaro
Alvaro Pereira
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Mar 24, 2026
Hi Elinore, Reading your message truly made my day thank you so much for taking the time to write such a thoughtful and detailed review. It was an absolute pleasure to have your family visiting Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands. I feel very lucky to have joined you along the way and the trip definitely reached your expectations. Your kind words about the team truly mean a lot. I’ll be sure to share your feedback with Ibeth, Matteo, Fabricio, Gabriel, as well as James, Phillipe, and Andreas... Read more

Hi Elinore,

Reading your message truly made my day thank you so much for taking the time to write such a thoughtful and detailed review.

It was an absolute pleasure to have your family visiting Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands. I feel very lucky to have joined you along the way and the trip definitely reached your expectations.

Your kind words about the team truly mean a lot. I’ll be sure to share your feedback with Ibeth, Matteo, Fabricio, Gabriel, as well as James, Phillipe, and Andreas they will be very happy to know they helped make your experience so memorable.

I hope we can welcome you back for another unforgettable journey in the future!

Hugs,
Alvaro

Thank you for another GREAT adventure!
Galapagos Islands | Feb 28 - Mar 13, 2026

B
Brooke C.
Morristown, NJ | Reviewed on Mar 20, 2026

Our guides (Sebastian & Edwin) were absolute ROCKSTARS! We are so grateful for the time that they spent with us. Tamer, once again, helped to create and organize another spectacular experience in Ecuador & The Galápagos Islands. Thank you!

Local specialist: Tamer Obeid
Tamer
Tamer Obeid
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Mar 20, 2026

Dear Brooke! Thank you so much for your kind words and positive feedback. It warms my heart to know again that this trip was a success and that you and the group have had a great time. Shoutout indeed to Sebastian and Edwin, I'll make sure to share your comments with them.
Looking forward to planning future amazing trips for the beloved students of Forman School!
Best,
Tamer

We booked our Galapagos trip with Paola throu...
Galapagos Islands | Feb 22 - Mar 3, 2026

Sharon
Sharon J.
Canada | Reviewed on Mar 11, 2026
We booked our Galapagos trip with Paola through KimKim. Itinerary was amazing! All of our guides, and naturalists were full of knowledge and went above and beyond to make sure we had the best time.
Danny greeted us at the airport in Quito and guided us through the city. He knew exactly what we wanted to see and do.
In Santa Cruz our naturalist guide was full of knowledge on the history of the island, the turtles and the volcanic tunnels. We visited the Charles Darwin Centre and again he...
Read more

We booked our Galapagos trip with Paola through KimKim. Itinerary was amazing! All of our guides, and naturalists were full of knowledge and went above and beyond to make sure we had the best time.
Danny greeted us at the airport in Quito and guided us through the city. He knew exactly what we wanted to see and do.
In Santa Cruz our naturalist guide was full of knowledge on the history of the island, the turtles and the volcanic tunnels. We visited the Charles Darwin Centre and again he could answer any question we asked.
Next we travelled to Isabella Island-Diego, Julio and all the guides again were amazing. I highly recommend using KimKim and definitely will for my next adventure!!

Hotel Reviews
Albemarle
Puerto Villamil

The view was amazing. You could hear the waves rolling in and watch the sunset right from your room.

Authenticity & Character
Nice lobby and beautiful pool with flowers surround it. A nice rooftop sitting area and wonderful staff
Location
Right on the beech in downtown Isabella island.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Fiesta
Puerto Ayora

The pool and Hot Tub were amazing. Nice to come back from a day in the heat and cool off! Have a drink and unwind. The bar staff made yummy drinks!

Authenticity & Character
Beautiful entrance, pool and hot tub area. The flowers and trees where beautiful!
Location
Was within walking distance to downtown, yet in a quiet location far enough away.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ikala Quito Hotel
Quito

We felt very safe at this hotel. They created us at the door and escorted us to our room. Everything was fantastic.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Kayaking at Garrapatero Beach
Kayaking at Garrapatero Beach
Galapagos Islands

Although we couldn’t kayak. Our guide took us to a coffee, sugar and alcohol plantation which was great

Quality of Experience
P
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Excursion to an uninhabited island
Excursion to an uninhabited island
Galapagos Islands

At first, we were worrying about the length of this trip and the fact that it said 80% on land and 20% in water. But this was one of the most memorable excursions we did. Our guide Diego had years of experience doing this excursion. It was nice to snorkel at your own pace and someone always had an eye on us to ensure our safety.

Quality of Experience
Food
All of it. The appetizers amazing!!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Nice boat. Santa Fe and the crew made us feel special!
Snorkel at Los Túneles
Snorkel at Los Túneles
Galapagos Islands

Our guide had a wealth of knowledge and treated all on board equally. He made sure to spend time with everyone individually which was nice. He explained things and shared his pictures with the group.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
So knowledgeable and really took care of us all.
Transport
The driver of the boat knew exactly how to ride the waves to get into the area safely.
Snorkeling at Las Tintoreras
Snorkeling at Las Tintoreras
Galapagos Islands

Great experience. Saw lots in the snorkelling adventure. Including sharks, penguins, turtles, and lots of colorful fish.

Quality of Experience
OP
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
The small group size.
Visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station
Visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station
Puerto Ayora

Unfortunately it was raining when we visited here but our guide didn’t let that change the plans. We still have a full tour.

Quality of Experience
Adding fresh cold water when picked up at the boat would have been nice.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Transfer to Quito Airport, Arrival to Galapagos & Highlands of Santa Cruz
Transfer to Quito Airport, Arrival to Galapagos & Highlands of Santa Cruz
Galapagos Islands

Danny made sure all our travels were worry free. Escorted us throught he airport and sent us on our way. To the next adventure.

Quality of Experience
Food
The table and VIP service!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
A great experience!! The knowledge of our guide was impressive! He could answer any questions we asked.
Transport
Quito City Tour - Middle of the World
Quito City Tour - Middle of the World
Quito

Danny was amazing. Everything was perfect.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Paola Vera Feijoo
Paola
Paola Vera Feijoo
Local specialist in Quito | Replied on Mar 12, 2026

Hi Sharon, thank you so much for the lovely review! I’m so happy to hear you had such a wonderful time in Quito and the Galápagos and that you enjoyed the itinerary. I’ll be sure to share your kind words with Danny, Diego, Julio, and the rest of the team. And thank you for sharing the beautiful photos — they’re amazing! As a cat lover myself, I especially loved the one from Isabela ;) It was truly a pleasure helping you plan this trip, and I’d love to help again whenever you’re ready for your next adventure. Warmly, Paola & the Authentic Ecuador Team

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