Personalized trips to Galapagos Islands
for independent travelers

How it works
Chat with specialist icon Step 1
Tell us what kind of trip you want
Complete our quick travel quiz
Chat icons Step 2
Chat with a local travel specialist
Work out the details together
Credit card icon Step 3
Securely book your trip
100% satisfaction guaranteed

Travelers love kimkim

- ., traveled to in

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
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,...
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
View article
Map 5 Days in the Galápagos Islands - 4 Unique Itineraries
5 Days in the Galápagos Islands - 4 Unique Itineraries
View article
Map 10 Days in the Galapagos Islands - 4 Unique Itineraries
10 Days in the Galapagos Islands - 4 Unique Itineraries
View article

Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Galapagos Islands
Travel specialist Liz Karen L. Jihuallanca
active 1 day 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 1 hour 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 4 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 3 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...

Related Destinations

Travelers who visit Galapagos Islands also visit these destinations

Trip Reviews for Galapagos Islands

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Highly recommend
Galapagos Islands | Jan 17 - Jan 24, 2026

C
Christopher E.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Jan 31, 2026
We had an amazing trip with the help of Paola and her recommendations. The guides went above and beyond. Highly recommend her. Read more

We had an amazing trip with the help of Paola and her recommendations. The guides went above and beyond. Highly recommend her.

Hotel Reviews
The Royal Palm Hotel Galapagos - Curio Collection by Hilton
Santa Cruz
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Iguana Crossing Boutique Hotel
Galápagos
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Blu Galapagos Sustainable Waterfront Lodge
Puerto Ayora
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Courtyard by Marriott Quito Airport
Quito

Relatively new hotel across the street from the airport. Very convenient.

Authenticity & Character
Location
right outside of the airport
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Paola Vera Feijoo

Going to the Galápagos Islands was the trip o...
Galapagos Islands | Jan 12 - Jan 21, 2026

Heather
Heather E.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Jan 25, 2026
Going to the Galápagos Islands was the trip of a lifetime! We would have been lost without our travel agent, Paul Cisneros from Kim Kim. Paul arranged excellent accommodations for us. He arranged for drivers to pick us up and take us to where we needed to go every step of the way. Paul arranged all of our tours and tour guides. We felt safe and reassured by his planning and expertise. Paul even helped to troubleshoot when we experienced translation problems and website glitches with the... Read more

Going to the Galápagos Islands was the trip of a lifetime! We would have been lost without our travel agent, Paul Cisneros from Kim Kim. Paul arranged excellent accommodations for us. He arranged for drivers to pick us up and take us to where we needed to go every step of the way. Paul arranged all of our tours and tour guides. We felt safe and reassured by his planning and expertise. Paul even helped to troubleshoot when we experienced translation problems and website glitches with the TCT cards. Everything ran so smoothly because of the planning and arrangements that Paul made.

As for the trip itself, we were in awe of the wildlife experiences that we had. Both land and sea adventures were unique, informative and amazing. Land animals that we saw in the Galápagos Islands included sea lions (not seals as we learned!), Galapagos and Saddleback tortoises (many sightings!), blue footed boobies, frigate birds, many other birds, Sally Lightfoot crabs, lava lizards, land iguanas (lots of them!). Marine animals included sea turtles (my personal favourite!), a sea horse, different kinds of rays (eagle rays, sting rays, maybe a marble ray), sharks, puffer fish, and so, so many colourful fish (like in Finding Nemo). On the mainland, our cultural tour of Quito felt like we were stepping back in time to an older world from days gone by. The Middle of the Earth tour was fun and interesting. We love our pictures from standing on the line of the equator.

We loved each and every hotel that we stayed at. The Ikala Quito Hotel had well appointed rooms and the staff were lovely. Hotel Fiesta in Puerto Ayora was spectacular! The pool area with bar was so nice to relax at and the gardens were gorgeous! We were travelling as an adult family and our room had a main room with a king size bed and a side room with two single beds. It was quite spacious. The Albemarle in Puerto Villamil was right on the beach and had a roof top terrace looking east, south and west. You could catch both the sunrise and the sunset. It even had a communal clothesline on the roof where you could dry your swimsuits (a small thing but something I really appreciated!). Lastly, we stayed at the Wyndham Airport Hotel in Quito on our last night. It is in the shape of a condor, which makes it an interesting piece of architecture. It is quite a posh hotel and the restaurant there is excellent. The shuttle service is under 5 minutes to the airport.

In summary, this was the trip of a lifetime for us and was everything we had hoped for. We are so grateful for the experience!

P.S. The following people were excellent as tour guides/coordinators (in no particular order): Robert, Ricardo, Michael, Alexis, Diego, Salome, Julio. There were others along the way who played a more minor role in our trip but each one was competent, friendly and helpful. In fact, my husband and I commented that Ecuadorians cultivate a culture of excellence not always seen in other parts of the world.

Hotel Reviews
Wyndham Quito Airport
Quito

This hotel is quite interesting architecturally because it is in the shape of a condor. It is only minutes from the airport by shuttle and you have a beautiful view of the mountains. The restaurant is excellent and there is a nice gym/hottub/sauna area.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Albemarle
Puerto Villamil

We loved this hotel. It's right on the beach in Puerta Villamil. There is a courtyard inside with a small pool and lovely garden. The walkways to the room overlook the courtyard. Besides being on the beach, what we loved most was the roof top terrace. We spent lovely evenings up there watching the gorgeous sunsets. There are tables and chairs there to relax and have a beer. One small thing that I really liked was that there was a communal clothes line on the rooftop terrace so you could hang your wet swimsuits there to dry. A small thing but I really appreciated it.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Very attentive to our needs.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Fiesta
Puerto Ayora

We loved this hotel! We felt like we were staying in a tropical paradise. We booked a family room and had a spacious room with a king bed with a smaller room off to the side with two single beds. Outdoors, there are beautiful gardens, a lovely pool and hot tub area and even a bar attended by a staff member. The availability of cervases were much appreciated! They even had ping pong tables. Breakfast was delicious. Staff were friendly. Overall, we loved it!

Authenticity & Character
Location
The hotel is close to the main street.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ikala Quito Hotel
Quito

This was an excellent hotel to stay at. The rooms were unique and spacious. Breakfast was delicious and staff were excellent!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Excursion to an uninhabited island
Excursion to an uninhabited island
Galapagos Islands

The land tour of the island was very interesting. We saw land iguanas, frigate birds (and many other birds), sea lions, sally lightfoot crabs, lava lizards. The terrain was very rocky and the vegetation was desert like. For 3 of the 5 of us, snorkelling was a new experience. Ricardo, our guide was very knowledgeable and helpful. We saw so many beautiful fish! Sea turtles swam by us and we even saw reef sharks (which we were glad to hear are not interested in humans because they have plenty of fish to keep them happy). In were in awe of our experience.

Quality of Experience
The flora and fauna were amazing!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Ricardo was engaging and very knowledgeable.
Visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station
Visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station
Puerto Ayora

This was really interesting. Glad we visited. Quite amazing how they continue to ensure the existence of the tortoises through their breeding program. Salome was an excellent guide.

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

Everything ran very smoothly. We really enjoyed seeing the tortoises at the "ranch." We even saw one put the moves on his girlfriend but she was playing coy. Quite hilarious at tortoise speed, lol. The lava tunnel was cool, as was the sinkhole.

Quality of Experience
It's just awesome to see animals that live nowhere else on earth!
Food
We enjoyed our meal at the "ranch."
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Salome was knowledgeable and helpful.
Transport
Visit the "Middle of the World"
Visit the "Middle of the World"
Galapagos Islands

This was so much fun and very interesting. We learned a lot about the unique features of being on the equator.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Quito City Tour
Quito City Tour
Galapagos Islands

Our guide Robert was very knowledgeable. He gave us an excellent tour of the city, and in particular, the historical parts of the town and churches. We also stopped in at an Ecuadorian candy maker with "surprising" candies and a chocolate maker where we had a chocolate tasting experience. Quite delicious! Continuing on to the Middle of the World was exciting and fun. We thoroughly enjoyed our experiences there. Robert speaks excellent English and by the time we were done, we considered him to be a friend.

Quality of Experience
Very unique!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Robert was an excellent guide and we felt safe with our driver Guillermo.
Transport
Local specialist: Paul Cisneros
Paul
Paul Cisneros
Local specialist in Quito | Replied on Jan 27, 2026
Dear Heather, I’m so happy to hear that your family trip was everything you hoped for and that you enjoyed each place you visited! I’m sure you captured some wonderful photos of the wildlife you encountered, if you’re able to upload them, I’d absolutely love to see them. 🐢🦭 I truly have no words to thank you for your kind comments about our guides, our services, and our country. It means so much to everyone involved to know that your experience here created lifelong memories, and I... Read more

Dear Heather,

I’m so happy to hear that your family trip was everything you hoped for and that you enjoyed each place you visited! I’m sure you captured some wonderful photos of the wildlife you encountered, if you’re able to upload them, I’d absolutely love to see them. 🐢🦭

I truly have no words to thank you for your kind comments about our guides, our services, and our country. It means so much to everyone involved to know that your experience here created lifelong memories, and I sincerely hope you’ll be able to visit us again in the future.

Wishing you and your family all the best!

Hugs from Ecuador,
Paul

SIMPLY THE BEST
Galapagos Islands | Jan 11 - Jan 21, 2026

T
Tomas B.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Jan 22, 2026
Thank you Paul, Milton and your entire staff for treating us to a very special and memorable time that will last the rest of our lives. Your effort had been truly the best ❣️ Read more

Thank you Paul, Milton and your entire staff for treating us to a very special and memorable time that will last the rest of our lives. Your effort had been truly the best ❣️

Hotel Reviews
Wyndham Quito Airport
Quito

We must go back to stay here, it has everything we enjoy especially the stream room with eucalyptus

Authenticity & Character
Top rated accommodations
Location
Very convenient access to the city and airport
Staff
So kind and helpful
Cleanliness & Comfort
Specious and comfortable
Hotel Cally Galapagos
Puerto Villamil

Great place to stay and close to things to enjoy

Authenticity & Character
Spacious and open
Location
Perfect view and access to the ocean beach
Staff
Very helpful
Cleanliness & Comfort
Pristine
Hotel Fiesta
Puerto Ayora

So nice, beautiful and comfortable

Authenticity & Character
Felt like a resort in paradise
Location
another awesome place to stay
Staff
So very helpful
Cleanliness & Comfort
Super comfortable
Hacienda El Porvenir
Machachi

Perfect experience of true Ecuador

Authenticity & Character
They gave us their best support
Location
The best experience, top quality
Staff
Kind and helpful
Cleanliness & Comfort
We would love to go back for another stay
Ikala Quito Hotel
Quito

Loves our time here

Authenticity & Character
Super location
Location
Great accommodations
Staff
Very helpful
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very clean
Activity Review
Quito City Tour - Middle of the World
Quito City Tour - Middle of the World
Quito

Must do

Quality of Experience
Fun and interesting
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Best guide ever
Transport
Easy access
Local specialist: Paul Cisneros
Paul
Paul Cisneros
Local specialist in Quito | Replied on Jan 22, 2026

Hi Tom!

Thank you so much for your kind words, it truly means a lot to hear that you and Jayme had such an amazing time in our country and that it will leave you with everlasting memories.

Hopefully, you’ll be able to visit us again someday, there are still so many wonderful places left to explore that I’m sure you’ll love.

Sending hugs from Ecuador! 🤗
Paul

Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan
Customize your trip with the help of a local travel specialist

Kimkim has handpicked the world’s top local travel specialists so you will have peace of mind and an unforgettable trip that meets your exact requirements.

Authentic travel experiences

Kimkim’s local specialists ensure that you will have the best experience based on up-to-date local insights. On top of that, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies.

Secure & easy booking

Once you are happy with the trip, you can easily book via kimkim’s secure payment platform.

Local support during your trip

You can always reach your local specialist with a quick message or call in case you hit a snag during your trip, or simply want some great local recommendations.