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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,...
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,...
Cruise Ship
Boutique Expedition Legend
4.2
(5)
· 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...

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 Liz Karen L. Jihuallanca
active 4 hours ago

Liz Karen L. Jihuallanca

Peruvian food, culture, and history aren’t just things I love—they’re a part of who I am. As a proud Cusqueñian, I carry my roots with pride and love sharing my culture with others. I've lived...

read more...
Travel specialist Alvaro Pereira
active 11 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 1 day 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 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...

read more...

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Trip Reviews for Galapagos Islands

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

HolaEste viaje fue increible , muchas experi...
Galapagos Islands | Dec 10 - Dec 17, 2025

Danny
Danny O.
Miami, FL | Reviewed on Dec 19, 2025
Hola
Este viaje fue increible , muchas experiencia juntas y toda la familia las disfruto mucho, especialmente nuestra nieta Olivia, para ella fue especial , no esperabamos estan ta cerca de la fauna de galapagos, y Quito muy bonito y muy limpio , Los guias fueron muy atentos a nosotros y nos llevaron a nuestro paso. Gracias por compartir su bello pais con nosotros , se los agradezco , esperamos volver.
Gracias Read more

Hola
Este viaje fue increible , muchas experiencia juntas y toda la familia las disfruto mucho, especialmente nuestra nieta Olivia, para ella fue especial , no esperabamos estan ta cerca de la fauna de galapagos, y Quito muy bonito y muy limpio , Los guias fueron muy atentos a nosotros y nos llevaron a nuestro paso. Gracias por compartir su bello pais con nosotros , se los agradezco , esperamos volver.

Gracias

Hotel Reviews
Ilatoa Lodge
Quito

Unas cabañas bien Lindas, y comodas , una vista preciosa

Authenticity & Character
Lo sencilla y bonita que esta presentada
Location
La belleza y originalidad
Staff
Son super amables con nosotros
Cleanliness & Comfort
No, todo con un detalle especial , y muy tranquilo
Casa Opuntia Galapagos Hotel
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno

Un lugar muy bonito y cerca de todo

Authenticity & Character
un lugar muy especial y original
Location
cerca de todo, caminando llegas a todos lados
Staff
muy amables
Cleanliness & Comfort
lo recomendaria a otras personas , exelente hotel
El Barranco
Santa Cruz

Cercano, comodo, justo al lado de la Iglesia, muelle, y de todo nos encanto

Authenticity & Character
muy comodo, y centrio
Location
en el centro de todo
Staff
muy amables
Cleanliness & Comfort
todo muy limpio y ordenado
Mercure Alameda Quito
Quito

exelente Hotel

Authenticity & Character
Location
super centrico
Staff
super
Cleanliness & Comfort
perfect
Activity Reviews
Explore Tortuga Bay & Charles Darwin Station
Explore Tortuga Bay & Charles Darwin Station
Puerto Ayora

Fue un lugar hermoso y lleno de vida, mucha vida marina , increible

Quality of Experience
Lo Hermoso que es esa Isla
Food
todo
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Muy atentos a nosotros
Transport
El personal muy amables y atentos
Embracing Nature's Giants: Exploring Santa Cruz Island's Highlands
Embracing Nature's Giants: Exploring Santa Cruz Island's Highlands
Galapagos Islands

Fue algo muy especial para nosotros

Quality of Experience
nunca habiamos visto algo asi
Guides, Drivers and Staff
el trato, muy especial
Transport
muy atentos
Welcome to Santa Cruz Island: Private Transfer to Puerto Ayora
Welcome to Santa Cruz Island: Private Transfer to Puerto Ayora
Puerto Ayora

Todo exelente

Quality of Experience
lo diferente que es el lugr
Guides, Drivers and Staff
exelente y pacientes
Transport
muy amables
Family Colonial Quito City Tour  & Mitad del Mundo - Middle of the World
Family Colonial Quito City Tour & Mitad del Mundo - Middle of the World
Quito

fue increible y facinante

Quality of Experience
Es un lugar bien organizado y hermoso
Food
De las mejores comidas de sur America
Guides, Drivers and Staff
exelentes
Transport
fue exelente
Welcome to Ecuador: Let Your Adventure Begin! (Transportation Service)
Welcome to Ecuador: Let Your Adventure Begin! (Transportation Service)
Galapagos Islands

Grandiosa , No me imaginaba que seria así.

Quality of Experience
Quito y Galapos son hermosos y la gente muy amable
Guides, Drivers and Staff
nuestro guia , Fue muy amable y gentil
Transport
muy comodo y complaciente
Local specialist: Alvaro Pereira
Alvaro
Alvaro Pereira
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Dec 20, 2025

Hola Danny,

Muchas gracias por tus palabras, nos alegran enormemente.
Nos encanta saber que toda la familia disfrutó el viaje y que para Olivia haya sido una experiencia tan especial. Galápagos tiene una magia única, y compartirla con ustedes fue un verdadero gusto.

Gracias por confiar en nosotros y por permitirnos mostrarles lo mejor de Ecuador, tanto en Galápagos como en Quito. Será un placer acompañarlos nuevamente en futuros viajes; aquí siempre estaremos para ustedes.

Un abrazo para toda la familia y hasta la próxima aventura

Mathias and the whole boat crew were exceptio...
Galapagos Islands | Jan 17 - Jan 27, 2025

Margie
Margie B.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Dec 07, 2025
Mathias and the whole boat crew were exceptional! Snorkeling was amazing and the hikes were unique, very educational. Read more

Mathias and the whole boat crew were exceptional! Snorkeling was amazing and the hikes were unique, very educational.

Hotel Review
M/Y Galapagos Angel
Galapagos

Nice size boat and excellent crew

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Mathias Onisseit
Mathias
Mathias Onisseit
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Dec 13, 2025

Hi Margie,

Thank you so much for your lovely review! I’m delighted to hear that you enjoyed the snorkeling and hikes - the Galápagos truly offers such a unique mix of adventure and learning. I’ll be sure to share your kind words with everyone who helped make your experience so special.

Wishing you many more wonderful journeys ahead - and a very Merry Christmas and happy holiday season!

All the best,
Mathias & the Authentic Ecuador Team

Great job arranging the trips to see Ecuador’...
Galapagos Islands | Nov 24 - Dec 3, 2025

Kevin
Kevin D.
Miami, FL | Reviewed on Dec 04, 2025

Great job arranging the trips to see Ecuador’s amazing natural beauty. The guides were all very knowledgeable, patient and enthusiastic about the wildlife and landscape. Special shoutout to my coordinator Valentina who was in touch with me everyday to make sure everything was going well.

Local specialist: Maria Jose Jaramillo
Maria Jose
Maria Jose Jaramillo
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Dec 04, 2025

Dear Kevin

Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re thrilled to hear you enjoyed exploring Ecuador’s incredible natural beauty. I’ll be sure to pass along your special shoutout to Valentina; she’ll be delighted to hear it. It was our pleasure to help make your trip smooth and memorable, and we hope to welcome you on another adventure soon!

Warm regards,
Majo

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