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Introducing Galapagos Islands

Travel to the Galápagos Islands
Traveling to the Galápagos Islands is a life-changing experience, whether you visit the islands alone, with your partner, with family, or with friends. There are several travel options to discover the Galápagos. 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 Galápagos.

What makes the Galápagos so unique
These remote, isolated islands are home to unique and endemic 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 Galápagos 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, on 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 Galápagos. 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 Galápagos
Ultimate Guide to Diving in the Galápagos

The Galápagos 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 are among the world's most extraordinary travel destinations, and the opportunity to observe the archipelago's famous 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
(8)
· 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
4.8
(4)
· 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,...
Photo courtesy of Iguana Crossing Hotel
Isla Isabela
Iguana Crossing Hotel
4.6
(7)
· Luxury
Beachfront Iguana Crossing is an eco-conscious stay located on Isla Isabela, with views of both the Pacific and forested volcanic landscapes. Visitors are on a quiet stretch of sand just outside Puerto Villamil's small town center, within walking distance of restaurants and close to natural sites...

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 5 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 34 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 10 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 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...

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Trip Reviews for Galapagos Islands

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Well planned and memorable vacation to the Galapagos
Galapagos Islands | Apr 19 - Apr 28, 2026

S
Sharat M.
Indonesia | Reviewed on May 07, 2026

The entire vacation was very planned, ensuring that we covered all the sights at a decent pace. The local guides on each island were superb, helping us get the most of our trip. and giving us great insights That we had local support 24X7 was an added bonus! All in all, a great vacation and we look forward to our next vacation with Kimkim.

Local specialist: Valentina López
Valentina
Valentina López
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on May 07, 2026

Dear Preeti & Mavinker,

Thank you so much for your lovely review. It really makes me happy to hear that your vacation was memorable and wonderful.
It was a pleasure for me to plan a very enriching trip, where you can make the most of your time, visit various places, and see amazing wildlife.

Your guides, Daniela and I, are also very grateful for your kind words. We are so happy to have been a part of your unforgettable experience in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands.

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

Hugs,
Valentina

What an unforgettable trip!
Galapagos Islands | Apr 18 - Apr 27, 2026

J
Jessica H.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on May 02, 2026
Ariel was amazing from the start and through out the trip. He was very responsive and helpful throughout every step of the trip. We were welcomed in the Galapagos by an amazing guide Vivianna. She was so knowledgable and helpful through out our whole stay. We had so many wonderful guides throughout the entire trip. Thank you to everyone who made this trip easy and exciting and unforgettable for our family of 5. Our hotels, drivers, boats, etc were all top notch. I cannot reccommend the entire... Read more

Ariel was amazing from the start and through out the trip. He was very responsive and helpful throughout every step of the trip. We were welcomed in the Galapagos by an amazing guide Vivianna. She was so knowledgable and helpful through out our whole stay. We had so many wonderful guides throughout the entire trip. Thank you to everyone who made this trip easy and exciting and unforgettable for our family of 5. Our hotels, drivers, boats, etc were all top notch. I cannot reccommend the entire team enough!

Hotel Reviews
Albemarle
Puerto Villamil

Great location and staff.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ikala Galapagos Hotel
Puerto Ayora

Amazing location. Comfortable rooms. Great ambiance. GREAT breakfast. WONDERFUL staff

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Wyndham Quito Airport
Quito

Great staff. Great rooms. Top notch

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Visit to Garrapatero Beach
Visit to Garrapatero Beach
Galapagos Islands

Great way to end the trip, playing in some beautiful water

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Shared Trip to Flamingo Lagoon & Tortoise Breeding Center
Shared Trip to Flamingo Lagoon & Tortoise Breeding Center
Galapagos Islands
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Snorkel at Los Túneles
Snorkel at Los Túneles
Galapagos Islands

Absolutely the highlight of our trip. Great guide. Great experience. Unique landscape and wildlife.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kayaking & Snorkeling at Las Tintoreras
Kayaking & Snorkeling at Las Tintoreras
Galapagos Islands
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Bay tour
Bay tour
Galapagos Islands
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Excursion to an uninhabited island
Excursion to an uninhabited island
Galapagos Islands

What a great experience for our family. We learned so much about the wildlife, as well as had a blast snorkling with some amazing creatures

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station
Visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station
Puerto Ayora
Quality of Experience
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

Vivianna our guide was absolutely amazing. She was knowledgable, kind, helpful. We learned so much and saw some incredible things.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Ariel Chasi
Ariel
Ariel Chasi
Local specialist in Quito | Replied on May 05, 2026

Dear Jessica,

Thank you so much for your kind words; it truly means a lot! 😊 I’m so glad you and your family had such a memorable trip. I’ll be sure to share your feedback with Vivianna and the entire team; they’ll be delighted to hear it. It was a pleasure helping you plan this adventure.

All the best,
Ariel

Our trip to the Galapagos was very well plann...
Galapagos Islands | Apr 6 - Apr 17, 2026

S
Stephanie S.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Apr 28, 2026
Our trip to the Galapagos was very well planned. We enjoyed our few days on land ,interacting with the local culture.
Our cruise on the Treasure was fabulous. The Staff and Captain were excellent ,educational including a delicious variety of snacks,drinks and meals.
Thank you Paul Read more

Our trip to the Galapagos was very well planned. We enjoyed our few days on land ,interacting with the local culture.
Our cruise on the Treasure was fabulous. The Staff and Captain were excellent ,educational including a delicious variety of snacks,drinks and meals.

Thank you Paul

Hotel Reviews
M/C Treasure
San José de Conocoto Quito
Hotel La Laguna
Puerto Villamil
Hotel Fiesta
Puerto Ayora
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Wyndham Quito Airport
Quito

Great staff, wonderful spat with an excellent esthetician. The rooms were comfortable and the restaurant was delicious

Authenticity & Character
Location
closer to the city
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Napo Cultural Center
Quito

Very comfortable, clean and well maintained. A very nice dinning area.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Our guide, Rodrigo, was excellent and happy to share his knowledge. He was very well-spoken and eager to show us all the Amazon has to offer.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Paul Cisneros
Paul
Paul Cisneros
Local specialist in Quito | Replied on Apr 28, 2026

Hi Stephanie,

I’m so glad to hear that you had a great time visiting Ecuador and the Galapagos. Thank you very much for your feedback about the hotels and activities, as well as your overall experience.

It was a pleasure planning this adventure with you, and I hope that you and Jeff can visit us again in the future. 🤗

Wishing you all the best,
Paul

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