Custom Tours to the Galapagos Islands

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Galapagos Islands Travel Insights

Spot marine iguanas on nature hikes along the coast of Isla Isabela
Map of 5 Days in the Galápagos Islands - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
5 Days in the Galápagos Islands - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With five days to spend in the Galápagos Islands, travelers have a variety of options. Choose a land-based tour that takes you to the archipelago's highlights for outdoor adventures and bird-watching, or go on a cruise that focuses on a particular interest area, like nature or wildlife. If you're certified, opt for a diving trip with daily excursions underwater to see reef sharks, sea turtles, seahorses, and more. Whichever itinerary you choose, you're sure to enjoy the natural beauty of this magnificent island chain.

The ethereal landscape of Los Tuneles
Map of 1 Week in the Galápagos Islands - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in the Galápagos Islands - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

If you have a week to spend in the Galápagos, choose between a cruise and a land-based tour. Sail around the archipelago on a yacht, stopping at various islands to hike and view wildlife, or base yourself on one or more of the islands, going on daily excursions to snorkel with penguins, kayak in the sea and look for blue-footed boobies. Alternatively, get an overview of Ecuador's top highlights by combining a few days in the Galápagos with a trip to Quito and Cotopaxi National Park.

Snorkel with Galápagos sea lions on your trip to the Galápagos
Map of 10 Days in the Galápagos Islands - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in the Galápagos Islands - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days to spend in the Galápagos Islands, you could opt for a land-based tour of the archipelago's natural highlights. Or choose a cruise tour that takes you around the islands, stopping to hike to volcanic craters, snorkel with penguins and sea lions, and walk around the habitats of blue-footed boobies and giant tortoises. Alternatively, work your trip to the Galápagos into a broader tour that covers Ecuador's highlights, or combine several days in the Galápagos with an adventure across the Peruvian border, ending at Machu Picchu. Find out more about your options by reading over the itineraries below.

Panoramic view of Isla Bartolomé
Map of 2 Weeks in the Galápagos Islands - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in the Galápagos Islands - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Consider yourself lucky if you have two weeks to spend in the Galápagos Islands. Spend all 14 days in the archipelago, island-hopping around the region to see giant tortoises in the wild, snorkeling with sea lions, and hiking to volcanic craters. Or incorporate a week in the Galápagos into a more wide-ranging trip around Ecuador that includes time in Quito and Cotopaxi National Park. If you're feeling especially ambitious, consider combining a trip to the Galápagos with an adventure to Machu Picchu in Peru.

An underwater crater and Pinnacle Rock on Isla Bartolomé
How Many Days to Spend in the Galápagos Islands

The best way to see as many of the 19 major islands that comprise the Galápagos is on a two-week tour. However, you can still pack in the best of Darwin's famed isles on a 10-day excursion that includes wildlife spotting and active adventures. Even five days allow for a quick island hop and highlights tour that covers some major sights and makes for an unforgettable experience.

Discover the unique wildlife and dramatic coastline of the Galápagos Islands
Best Time of Year to Visit the Galápagos Islands

The Galápagos are great to visit year-round, as you'll always enjoy warm weather and exciting wildlife and activities. Its climate is characterized by a rainy season (December-May) and a dry season (June-November), but every season brings something unique, whether you're an adventurous traveler, a birdwatcher, a beach lover, or a nature explorer. Walk in Charles Darwin's footsteps, observe incredible species of reptiles, mammals, and birds, and snorkel or dive among sharks, dolphins, and whales.

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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 9 mins 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 7 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 Paola Vera Feijoo
active 7 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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