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,...
Cruise Ship
Boutique Expedition Legend
5.0
(4)
· 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...
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,...

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 10 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 7 hours 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...

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

Paola did an excellent job
Galapagos Islands | Oct 21 - Oct 29, 2025

E
eswara b.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Nov 11, 2025
Paola did an excellent job Read more

Paola did an excellent job

Hotel Reviews
Blu Galapagos Sustainable Waterfront Lodge
Puerto Ayora
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Iguana Crossing Boutique Hotel
Galápagos
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Indigo Galápagos
San Cristóbal
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
JW Marriott Hotel Quito
Quito
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Excursion to an uninhabited island
Excursion to an uninhabited island
Galapagos Islands

Exceptional. Our guide Jairo is a superb guy and would go with him any number of times. Very empathetic, patient, concerned and made sure we enjoyed the activities with out fear.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Highlands of Santa Cruz Island
Highlands of Santa Cruz Island
Galapagos Islands
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
Flamingo Lagoon & Tortoise Breeding Center
Flamingo Lagoon & Tortoise Breeding Center
Galapagos Islands
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
I
Transport
Kayaking & Snorkeling at Las Tintoreras
Kayaking & Snorkeling at Las Tintoreras
Galapagos Islands
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
El Junco Lagoon & Puerto Chino Beach
El Junco Lagoon & Puerto Chino Beach
Galapagos Islands
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Interpretation Center & Tijeretas Hill
Interpretation Center & Tijeretas Hill
Galapagos Islands
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Paola Vera Feijoo

We saw amazing scenes and wildlife every day!...
Galapagos Islands | Oct 28 - Nov 6, 2025

Jennifer
Jennifer M.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Nov 10, 2025
We saw amazing scenes and wildlife every day! The local guides were all fantastic - very knowledgeable, helped us negotiate some of the tougher terrains, and kept us informed of travel arrangements. There were a couple of glitches with taxi pickups, but we knew who to contact to fix it. The hotels (Ikala on Santa Cruz, Isamar on Isabella, and Seaside on San Cristobal) were all really nice, especially the Ikala.
The speedboat transfer from Santa Cruz to Isabella was HORRIBLE! 2 hours of...
Read more

We saw amazing scenes and wildlife every day! The local guides were all fantastic - very knowledgeable, helped us negotiate some of the tougher terrains, and kept us informed of travel arrangements. There were a couple of glitches with taxi pickups, but we knew who to contact to fix it. The hotels (Ikala on Santa Cruz, Isamar on Isabella, and Seaside on San Cristobal) were all really nice, especially the Ikala.
The speedboat transfer from Santa Cruz to Isabella was HORRIBLE! 2 hours of constant jostling and slamming down HARD on the water every few minutes was frightful and gave me a backache. The flight arrangements all worked fine.

Hotel Reviews
Wyndham Quito Airport
Quito

Nice modern hotel, clean comfortable rooms. Frequent shuttle to airport. Very good restaurant, although the service was slow one night.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Just a few minutes from airport
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
SeaSide Hotel
Galapagos

The room was large and clean and comfortable. The breakfasts were large and OK

Authenticity & Character
Location
Walking distance to town
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
There were some small creepy crawlies in the bathroom, other wise clean
Isamar Hotel
Puerto Villamil, Isla Isabela

Beautiful view of the beach.

Authenticity & Character
Small hotel with local flare
Location
Right on beach
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Mostly clean and comfortable. The windows were not sealed well so we had little iguanas in the room.
Ikala Galapagos Hotel
Puerto Ayora

The rooms were large, clean, and very comfortable. The restaurant was fabulous!

Authenticity & Character
Tropical vibe beautifully landscaped
Location
Very close to downtown and ferry connections
Staff
They packed us a breakfast to go when we had early departures
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Transfer to the airport for your flight back home (Departure)
Transfer to the airport for your flight back home (Departure)
Galapagos Islands

Our guide and driver came on time and whisked us to the airport. Our guide helped us with our luggage into the airport and helped us check in.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Free morning on San Cristobal until Departure
Free morning on San Cristobal until Departure
Isla San Cristóbal

Not much was open so early in town, but watching the sea lions was fun.

Quality of Experience
Embracing Nature: Discovering Wildlife on Española Island
Embracing Nature: Discovering Wildlife on Española Island
Isla San Cristóbal

We saw the Nazca boobies and the waves albatross here, very special wildlife and scenery. The trails were rocky and quite challenging.

Quality of Experience
Wonderful unique sights
Food
Chicken was dry and overcooked.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide helped us with the rugged terrain, even taking my phone to take lots of pictures when I had to concentrate on navigating the trails
Transport
The boat was small and fairly spartan. One engine failed during our return, but so we had to slow down and return to dock late.
Welcome to San Cristóbal Island! Visit the Interpretation Center, Tijeretas Hill, or La Lobería
Welcome to San Cristóbal Island! Visit the Interpretation Center, Tijeretas Hill, or La Lobería
Galapagos Islands

We didn’t do Tijereas Hillsince it was late in the day, but the Interpretation Center was interesting, and La Loberia with all the sea lions was cool.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Very accommodating with bringing us a driver when the walking looked too far.
Transport
The restaurant recommended by our guide for dinner was great!
Isabela Island's Treasures: Exploring the Breeding Center & Wetlands
Isabela Island's Treasures: Exploring the Breeding Center & Wetlands
Galapagos Islands

The wetlands had some good bird sightings. The walk was quite long, but mostly the scenery was worth the hike.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Discover the Wonders of Tintoreras Islet: A Journey into Breathtaking Biodiversity
Discover the Wonders of Tintoreras Islet: A Journey into Breathtaking Biodiversity
Puerto Villamil

We saw the elusive Galapagos penguins!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Experience the Pristine Beauty of Galápagos Islands: Discovering an Uninhabited Island
Experience the Pristine Beauty of Galápagos Islands: Discovering an Uninhabited Island
Puerto Ayora

The wildlife were fabulous, saw many new species. The trail got a too rugged for my sister and I so we were able to wait at a designated area and meet the group later. Lunch on the boat was fantastic. Getting in and out of the small dinghies to get to the boat and island were challenging for us, but the crew was great to steady us.

Quality of Experience
Seeing blue footed boobies and frigate birds and sea lions.
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Very helpful to us old ladies with some challenges.
Transport
Nice boat with good seats, nice bathroom
Welcome to Santa Cruz Island:  Highlands (Plant a Tree)  & Charles Darwin Research Station
Welcome to Santa Cruz Island: Highlands (Plant a Tree) & Charles Darwin Research Station
Puerto Ayora

It was great to be met at the plane and taken for our afternoon activities. The giant tortoises were really cool. Lunch was good, and fun to be outside so we could watch the birds and tortoises.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Welcome to Ecuador: Let Your Adventure Begin!
Welcome to Ecuador: Let Your Adventure Begin!
Galapagos Islands

It was nice after a long day of travel to be met by a driver with my name on a card.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Karla Guerrero
Karla
Karla Guerrero
Local specialist in Ecuador | Replied on Nov 12, 2025

Hello Jennifer,

Thank you so much for sharing your valuable feedback about your trip. I’m truly happy to hear that you had such an amazing experience in Ecuador. Your comments help us continue to grow and improve.

I hope to see you again in the future, perhaps on another adventure here in Ecuador!

Warm hugs from the middle of the world,
Karla

Thank you KimKim and Paola for making our dream come true!
Galapagos Islands | Oct 17 - Oct 21, 2025

Susan
Susan G.
Seattle, WA | Reviewed on Oct 28, 2025
We have NEVER worked with a more amazing company!!!!! Paola was INCREDIBLE!!!! She catered to our every need. My husband and I are 70 years old. We had to be particular about our activities. Paola took everything into consideration to make the trip suit our needs. We are birders. Paola made sure we would achieve our goals. Our guides were personable and knowledgable. Alexis knew his "stuff". Nicholas was a kind charmer who kept us smiling the entire time. The "other" Nicholas did... Read more

We have NEVER worked with a more amazing company!!!!! Paola was INCREDIBLE!!!! She catered to our every need. My husband and I are 70 years old. We had to be particular about our activities. Paola took everything into consideration to make the trip suit our needs. We are birders. Paola made sure we would achieve our goals. Our guides were personable and knowledgable. Alexis knew his "stuff". Nicholas was a kind charmer who kept us smiling the entire time. The "other" Nicholas did every thing he could to find birds for us. He succeeded!!!!!

I actually cried when I entered our hotel and looked from the balcony. It was that perfect! We will return, and we will use KimKim wherever we plan to travel.

Hotel Review
Hotel Indigo Galápagos
San Cristóbal

Gorgeous views and the room was spacious. The restaurant was wonderful and everyone was sooooooooo kind.

Location
The view and it was close to everything!
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Kayaking Adventure - Ochoa Beach
Kayaking Adventure - Ochoa Beach
Isla San Cristóbal

My husband and son went on this adventure. They said it was the best snorkeling they did on the entire trip.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Punta Pitt
Punta Pitt
Galapagos Islands

It was a lovely boat trip over! My son and husband enjoyed diving. I was welcomed to the top of the boat, to take pictures of birds! Then the walk to Punta Pitt was incredible. Red-footed Boobies with young in nests. A bird photographers dream!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Day-Trip to Española Island
Day-Trip to Española Island
Galapagos Islands

This was our favourite day! The boat trip was a bit rough, but that was to be expected. Birds! Birds! Birds! And Nicholas could help us identify birds on the ocean.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
La Lobería & Barranco
La Lobería & Barranco
Galapagos Islands

It's a tricky walk, but worth it! Alexis, our guide was informative and kind!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Paola Vera Feijoo
Paola
Paola Vera Feijoo
Local specialist in Quito | Replied on Oct 28, 2025

Dearest Sue,

Thank you so much for your beautiful words! Your message truly touched my heart! It was such a joy planning this trip for you and Andy, and I’m thrilled to know it suited your needs and birding goals perfectly. I’ll be sure to share your lovely comments with Alexis and both Nicholases; they’ll be so happy to hear them.

I can’t wait to welcome you back to Ecuador someday. Wishing you both many more wonderful adventures ahead :)

Warmly,
Paola

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.