day trip cost to galapagos islands

• Disclosures

Exploring Galapagos Islands on the Cheap: A How-To Guide

S oft, snow-white sand. Belching sea lions at your feet. Radiantly coloured fish swimming before you. These are the things that come to mind when one daydreams of a visit to the Galapagos Islands.

For many, that is all the Galapagos ever is – a mere daydream. It's often dismissed as unfeasible to visit due to its exorbitant costs.

But what if you could travel the Galapagos on a first class, all-inclusive cruise with a personal guide for up to a third of the retail cost? What if you could dine and sleep on <$60 a day in one of the world’s most sought-after holiday destinations? I’m happy to tell you that you that this is not a dream , but a feasible reality that we ourselves have done.

Intrigued? Here's our ultimate guide on how to see Galapagos on the cheap!

• 1 Galapagos 101: What you need to know
• 2 How much does a trip to Galapagos cost?
• 3 Why last minute cruises exist
• 4 How to book a last minute cruise in Galapagos
• 5 Where to book a last minute Galapagos cruise
• 6 Booking a last minute cruise: Must-know facts
• 7 Last minute cruise booking checklist
• 8 When to visit Galapagos
• 9 Getting there: Flights & inter-island transfers
• 10 Where to stay
• 11 What if you don't book a last-minute cruise?

Galapagos 101: What you need to know

First off, yes, you can visit the Galapagos Islands without a tour . This is the most important myth to dispel, as there are four islands that tourists can reside on without being on any sort of tour. These islands are Santa Cruz, San Cristobal (a.k.a. Chatham), Isabela, and Floreana (a.k.a. Charles or Santa Marta). The islands are serviced by ferries.

You can fly into the Galapagos yourself and stay on any of these islands. Santa Cruz and San Cristobal are the busiest, most populated islands and have the most to offer in terms of tours, restaurants, and accommodation. However, all of the islands have beaches, sights, and activities which can be explored for cheap or free on your own. For tips on that, read our post here !

How much does a trip to Galapagos cost?

This depends on how you want to explore the Galapagos, and the flexibility of your trip. If you want to do a pre-booked multi-night cruise, this is the most expensive option. A midpoint alternative would be booking a last minute cruise after arrival. The cheapest approach is to stay on an island and do day tours. In this post we'll compare all of these options!

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Land based, day tours only

Concept : Stay on an island (and/or island hop), do land or sea-based day tours and visit local sites Pros : Cheaper, flexible option & easy-going pace Cons : Cannot access many islands by day tour Average cost : $500-$800 USD  for 5-nights with activities & food (breakdown below) Example tours: – Puerto Ayora: Bartolome Island and Sulivan Bay Day-Trip – From Santa Cruz: Galapagos, Excursion to Tortuga & Tour – Cerro Mesa Reserve and Garrapatero Beach Tour Book through: GetYourGuide , Viator

Last minute cruise

Concept : Stay on an island & attempt to book a last minute discounted cruise Pros : Significant savings, able to visit more distant islands Cons : No guarantee of finding a cruise, requires flexibility Average cost : $800-$1800+ USD  for a 5+ night cruise (breakdown below)

Pre-booked cruise

Concept : Book a cruise in advance Pros : Security of knowing you have the cruise, route, and class you want Cons : Expensive! Average cost : $2500+ USD  for a 5+ night cruise (breakdown below) Example tours: – Galápagos Islands 5-Day Nature Tour – 6-Day Galápagos Adventure Tour on 4 Islands – San Cristobal: 4-Day Galapagos Island Tour Book through: GetYourGuide , Viator , Intrepid Travel , G Adventures

Land-based, day tours only: Cost breakdown

Basing yourself on an island and taking day tours is the most affordable way to see the Galapagos. Take note once more, there are only four islands in the Galapagos that tourists can stay over on without a tour : Santa Cruz, San Cristobal, Isabela, and Floreana.

Detailed cost breakdown:

• Accommodation : prices start at $25+ USD/night for single, budget private room. A basic budget double room is ~$40 USD/night on average.  HotelsCombined.com  is comprehensive for Galapagos and includes hostels.  AirBNB has comparable listings too.
• Food : $5-$15+ USD per meal out (cheaper to eat outside of tourist zone!)
• Tours and activities : $50-$200 USD per tour (land tours cheapest, diving tours most expensive)

GRAND TOTAL : $550-$800+ USD  for 5 nights (varies depending on accommodation, # of tours taken, and where you dine e.g. such as local or DIY meals vs tourist restaurants)

Booking a last minute cruise: Cost breakdown

This approach works for those who are flexible with their trip duration and  are okay with the possibility of not finding a last minute cruise. If you don't find a last minute cruise, you can simply do land-based day tours/island hopping.

Here is a cost breakdown of finding a last minute cruise:

• 5-night cruise : $800-$1700+ USD total (varies by cruise class, duration, route). This is inclusive of accommodation costs.
• Food : included
• Tours and activities : included (note: tipping and other items like wet suits could be extra)

GRAND TOTAL: $800-$1700+ USD

Note: Keep in mind you must also allocate extra costs for accommodation &/or activities before and after your cruise.

Pre-booked cruise: Cost breakdown

A pre-booked cruise is the most costly way to see the Galapagos. This is why people envision The Galapagos as an expensive place. Prices vary by company, class, and route, but you will pay a premium to have a secured spot on a particular ship in advance. There are endless company options, but  Viator , Intrepid Tours , and G Adventures  are popular and have accessible reviews.

• 5-night cruise : $2500-$5000+ USD (varies by class, ship, route, etc.). Accommodation costs included.
• Tours and activities : included (note: tipping and other items like wet suits for diving could be extra)

GRAND TOTAL : $2500+ USD

Note: Keep in mind you must also allocate extra costs for accommodation &/or activities before and after your cruise. Prices vary hugely by company, class, boat size, route, and more.

Why last minute cruises exist

Cruise ships charge outrageous prices in advance for their tickets, preying on holiday-goers who have a fixed annual vacation slot to fill. In reality, these seats do not always sell out and as a departure date approaches, remaining tickets are hugely slashed in price to fill the spots. In both the Galapagos and mainland Ecuador (Quito and Guayaquil), there are businesses that operate entirely on selling last minute cruise tickets.

Now, one can never guarantee a booking within a set timeframe, but there's usually at least some options within a few days window. The worst case scenario is that you don't book a multi-night cruise and do a land-based approach instead. This is arguably not a bad alternative, given the abundance of wildlife and world-class beaches that  can be seen for free or via day tours . We've done this on our second trip to Galapagos, and it worked out great.

At the bottom of this article is a map marked with important reference points. It includes where to book last minute tours and cheap/free activities. 

How to book a last minute cruise in Galapagos

As the name implies, “last minute” cruises must be booked on short notice – typically a few days before departure . Last minute cruises are booked in person, usually at tour shops that specialize in selling vacant cruise spots.

Where to book a last minute Galapagos cruise

Guayaquil, Quito, and the Galapagos Islands (Santa Cruz and San Cristobal specifically) all have shops that sell discounted tours. Below is a list of shops offering last minute tours.

Personally we've only booked on arrival to Galapagos (in Santa Cruz), which is usually the cheapest option. Mainland tourist shops find cruises the exact same way as Galapagos-based companies; that is, by making a phone call to contacts in the islands. However, cruises sold on the mainland often involve increased pressure to book and (false) claims that you definitely won't find cruises on arrival.

Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz

Moonrise tour agency.

About : This is a family run business that mainly specializes in last minute cruises. We used them in 2013 to book several day trips and were pleased with their service and the tours themselves. Address : Avenida Charles Darwin near the corner of Charles Binford (See map) Website :  www.galapagosmoonrise.com Phone : 05/2526-589

Joybe Tours

About : This is another family run business that sells day tours and last minute cruises. We used them in 2013 to book our multi-night last minute cruise and were hugely impressed with our first-class cruise! Address : See map Website : N/A Phone : N/A

Quito & Guayaquil

About : Based in Quito and Guayaquil, this company occasionally posts last minute deals on their website, otherwise visit in-person in Quito. Note: this recommendation comes from Frommer's (we haven't personally used them). Address : Quito – Almagro N31-80, Edificio Venecia. Guayaquil – in the Edificio Samborondon Business Center, Torre A Piso 3. Website : www.ecoventura.com Phone : Quito – 02/2907-396, Quayquil – 04/2839-390

Quasar Expeditions

About : One of the bigger cruise operators and also has an office in Puerto Ayora. Note: this recommendation comes from Frommer's (we haven't personally used them). Address : Quito – Almagro Plaza, Ponce Carrasco E8-06 y Av. Diego de Almagro, Oficinas 1101-1106 Website : www.quasarex.com Phone : USA – 1.866.481.7790, UK – 0.800.883.0827, Australia – 1.800.463.266

Zenith Ecuador Travel

About : Has access to ~100 boats and can reach contacts to try and find a last-minute deal. Simply provide your dates and requirements and ask to speak to eh owner, Marcos Endara (tell him you are a Frommer's reader). Note: this recommendation comes from Frommer's (we haven't personally used them). Address : Quito – Juan León Mera 453 and Roca Website : www.zenithecuador.com Phone : 02/2529-993

Booking a last minute cruise: Must-know facts

Choosing a route, boat, and company, routes & itineraries.

Whatever you do, don't book a last minute tour blindly. Research your preferences ahead of time, including which islands you want to see. Each island and cruise route offers unique wildlife and scenery. Some itineraries focus more on landscapes, while others feature diving or wildlife.

There are more “typical” cruise ship routes which include visiting islands that you can see independently on day tours (e.g. Floreana, Bartolome, etc.). These routes tend to be cheaper since they are closer to the main islands, whereas those going to more remote islands are more costly.

Companies & boat types

When choosing a boat and a company, try to look up reviews in advance. Where possible, find out who will be the naturist guide, as this is the wildlife narrator of your entire trip! Trip Advisor is a good place to get trip reports on companies, boats, and tour guides. It can also be a useful place for determining the going rate for full price and last-minute bargains for ships, routes, and classes.

As you research, make a shortlist of boats and routes that meet your approval (we've got a handy list below). It will be hard to remember this on the spot, so we really do advise making a “must have” list. You can then cross-check this against the last-minute options available. You may wish to print this out beforehand in case wifi is not accessible.

Allow buffer time & bring CASH

If your holiday time is fixed, you may want to book two weeks off if you want to do a 5-7 day cruise. Buffer room is essential. In our experience, we had 12 days which was plenty to book a 5-night cruise in two days time. It may take a couple days  of popping in and out of cruise shops to find a ship/route you like that works with your departure date.

Take note that most last minute tour offices only accept cash for tour bookings.  Be  sure to know your bank’s daily withdrawal limit, bring some cash ahead of time, determine your tour budget and ensure that you can withdraw that amount over a couple of days beforehand to pay for your cruise.

Know what's included in your tour

When booking, be sure to clarify what is included in the price (meals, diving equipment, tours, etc.) . Most often alcohol is not included, so if you want to drink, factor this into your on-board cash stash. Finally, tipping is expected. Be sure to bring cash for this too so you can tip crew members after your tour ends.

Be wary of bottom of rock bottom deals

Tread cautiously around extremely cheap cruises.  Reduced costs may be due to under-qualified guides with limited English, or boats that are crammed or unreliable. There's nothing like forking out a wad of cash for a disappointing trip. Know what you want, be prepared to ask questions, then show up and see what's on hand.

Last minute cruise booking checklist

Here is a checklist when booking!

Our experience booking a last minute tour

In 2013 we booked a 5-night, first class cruise for less than one third of the retail price. We did so within two days of arrival to Santa Cruz and booked at Joybe Tours. Our boat was The Odyssey , a 16-person yacht that included visited the Isabela, Fernandina, and Bartholomew Islands. We had a very knowledgeable and friendly guide, great food, and tours. It was the rainy season when we visited (December), which meant occasional drizzle, warmer ocean water for swimming, and less tourists.

In total, we paid $840 USD each for our all-inclusive first-class cruise . We splashed out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience, but there were cheaper alternatives available. The less pricey options were lower class boats that visited islands we could (and later did) access via day tour.

When to visit Galapagos

When is the best time of year to visit the Galapagos? The truth is, there are benefits to visiting in different months. Galapagos birds, fish, and animals have different breeding  seasons, so you can see surges of particular species at various times of the year.

• The warm, rainy season is from late   December to June . This means warmer waters for swimming, but the chance of cloud and showers (though these are often quick passing).
• The cool, dry season is from  late June to December.  “Cool” is a relative term here as the days are still warm but the water is cooler. As the temperatures are a bit more comfortable, this is the breeding season for sea lions, shore birds, fur seals, marine iguanas, which is exciting for wildlife viewing.
• Peak periods include Christmas/New Years (late December/early January), and June to September. Consider that you will have a harder time finding last minute cruises and accommodation during these periods. It may be wise to at least book accommodation ahead during peak times.

Getting there: Flights & inter-island transfers

The cheapest way to get to Galapagos from Ecuador is between  Quito, Ecuador and  Baltra Airport, Galapagos (GPS).  Baltra is the airport for Santa Cruz, even though it is physically located on a different island. After landing in Baltra, tourists are immediately transported to Puorto Ayora, Santa Cruz by bus and ferry. Be sure to have small cash for these transports (a few dollars will suffice). Alternatively, you can pre-book an airport arrival transfer direct to your hotel, which includes all ferry tickets and coach transfers, and the option to stop at the Charles Darwin Station. Departure transfers are also available.

If you wish, it is possible to plan an open-jaw trip by flying into one island and out of another. You can transfer between islands by ferry ( pre-book on Viator ), and fly in or out of San Cristobal (SCY) airport.

Flight costs

If you book in advance (~6+ weeks), a flight to Baltra should be around $200+ USD  one-way from Quito. You will find the best rates by searching  Skyscanner , and we recommend selecting “whole month” when searching to find the cheapest day.

If you're not planning to start or end in Quito, try searching from your preceding destination to the Baltra Airport anyway. There's a good chance Skyscanner will be able to find a cheap route between the two points, usually connecting via Quito or Guayaquil.

For more hacks on how to find cheap flights to Galapagos , check out our other posts:

• How to Book the Cheapest Flight Possible to Anywhere
• How to Fly Cheap in South America: A Guide to Budget Airlines and Air Passes
• How to Find Airline Mistake Fares (& Get Ridicuously Cheap Flights)

How to get between islands in Galapagos

A handful of islands in the Galapagos can be accessed by transfer ferries. You can book these yourself in person by showing up at the relevant dock. Transferring islands is essential if you wish to book an option-jaw flight (flying into one island and out of another).

Generally speaking, there is one early morning (e.g. 6AM) and one afternoon (e.g. 2PM) ferry between islands each day. These are general time estimates subject to change, and you must confirm this on arrival as it varies by island. It's recommended to buy ferry tickets the day prior so you know the timing in advance.

Prices range from around $20-$60USD one-way depending on the island. As of 2016 prices between San Cristobal and Santa Cruz were $30 USD one way.  This website provides a schedule, but we cannot take liability for errors in the schedule or price ( confirm in person and in advance of your travel plans). Alternatively, pre-book your island transfer with pickup direct from your hotel on Viator ( San Cristobal to Santa Cruz  and  Santa Cruz to San Cristobal ).

Where to stay

Before flying into the Galapagos Islands, you'll likely start your trip in Quito or Guayaquil. From there, you can fly to Baltra or San Cristobal and stay in one of four islands where tourists are allowed to stay. These include Santa Cruz, San Cristobal (a.k.a. Chatham), and Floreana (a.k.a. Charles or Santa Marta).

Quito, Ecuador

Hotel plaza internacional.

The Hotel Plaza Internacional is what I call a budget “boutique” hotel. This colonial-style accommodation will set you back $26 USD/night for a private double room with an ensuite.

My best friend and I stayed here in November 2015 on our “flashpacking” trip (i.e. you can get cheaper but this is good value for what it is). We loved the generous free breakfast (eggs are extra but worth it!), and the gorgeous city view. The hotel staff were very helpful and were always be happy to flag a taxi on our behalf to ensure a fair price.

Guayaquil, Ecuador

Villa garza inn.

The Villa Garza Inn  ( read reviews ) is another mid-range budget option that is clean, spacious, and with a friendly staff on board. Most attractively this hotel includes FREE transport to and from the airport. The price per night is $44/USD, but factoring in the inclusion of transport, free wifi, and a private ensuite room – this is a pretty good option. Ask the owners for food recommendations nearby, we had phenomenal asado (BBQ meat) up the street!

Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos

Santa Cruz is the busiest of the four tourist islands. Its capital, Puerto Ayora, is filled with tourist shops, tour booking agencies, bars, and even a small grocery store. There are several land-based activities accessible here, including lava tunnels, a tortoise sanctuary, and a lagoon (check our post here for ideas).

Santa Cruz has the most booking agencies for day trips and last minute tours, so this is arguably your best starting point if you're trying to snag a discounted cruise.

Hotel España

We stayed at Hotel España  ( read reviews ) in 2013 and once again in November 2015. This is a clean, centrally-located budget option that starts at ~$29USD/night for a single private room with an ensuite. It's definitely a great “flashpacker” style option, especially if you get a room in the newer half of the building. Free functional wifi and a TV are included. The main lobby has hammocks that are perfect for swinging in with a beer at the end of a jam-packed day!

San Cristobal Island, Galapagos

San Cristobal is the second busiest of the islands that tourists can stay on. It is noticeably less buzzing and built up, but is still freckled with tourist shops and restaurants. The peace and quiet can certainly be a welcome reprieve from the busyness of Santa Cruz, and it does offer some stunning hikes and snorkel sights accessible on foot.

Hostal Laura de Casa

This cute little hostel is clean, fairly close to the main strip, and is colourfully outfitted. During our visit in November 2015 the wifi was strong and so too was the hot water. The owners have created an adorable garden here where guests can lounge. Single rooms start at $25 USD/night.

Floreana Island, Galapagos

Floreana is the quietest inhabited island, with a population of just 150. Unfortunately (or fortunately!), the tranquility means far less options for accommodation and dining. Most commonly tourists stay on Santa Cruz and/or San Cristobal, but if your budget allows it, there are definitely more off-the-beaten track vibes to be had here.

Isabela Island

One of the most volcanically active places on earth, this is the largest island in the Galapagos. On offer here is plenty of volcanic landscapes, the second largest volcanic crater on earth, and colourful wildlife including flamingos and sea turtles. We haven't stayed overnight at this island but made a day visit to it during our multi-night cruise in 2013 and it was incredible! Transfers from Santa Cruz to Isabela Island can be pre-booked on Viator .

Book in advance or on arrival?

Accommodation in Galapagos is a bit pricier to book ahead online, but can be essential during peak travel periods such as Christmas and New Years. We've visited twice (in November and February) and booked accommodation on arrival during these visits. While not booking ahead is a gamble no matter what, you can usually determine how busy it is based on remaining availability on sites like Booking.com .

Keep in mind that in South America, many accommodation options are not listed online. Countless times while backpacking we would panic upon discovering no accommodation vacancies online, only to find that there were many (unlisted) places available when we arrived.  If you're hesitant to book on arrival , you can always book your first night or two and then explore your options when you get there.

For more tricks and websites to help get the best hotel rates when you travel, check out “ How to Book the Cheapest Hotel Possible “!

What if you don't book a last-minute cruise?

Put simply, being land-based is not a bad way to explore the Galapagos. If you aren't looking to visit remote islands or particular diving/spots sights, then you probably won't be disappointed with this option!

If you want to see the main highlights of Galapagos – sea lions, volcanic craters, tortoises, marine iguanas, glimmering beaches and the like – you can do all of this being land-based . Remember, you can also island hop to San Cristobal, Santa Cruz, Isabela, and Floreana without a tour, offering your own DIY island exploration.

Day tours are highly recommended (do at least a couple!). This will allow you to see islands that you can't access without a tour (which is the majority of them). Prices range from $70-$200+ USD and most include a meal (diving/snorkel trips are priciest). Bartolomé Island is an excellent tour for stunning scenery. South Plaza Island (Isla Plazas) showcases yellow land iguanas and gorgeous contrasts of red and green flora from cacti and shrubbery.

Besides booking tours, you can also visit beaches, lagoons, lava tubes, tortoise reserves entirely on your own. Keen to snorkel or kayak? You can even rent that gear yourself. For detailed ideas on how to explore the islands yourself, check out our article on cheap & free Galapagos activities .

Eating cheap & local

Get off the tourist strip.

If you wander a bit, you'll find Mom and Pop restaurants lining the backstreets, just North of the tourist strip. Prices are around the $5 mark per meal. Take note these are true hole in the wall places (to keep well, check our health tips here to avoid food poisoning!).

When in doubt or lost in translation, just ask for the platos del dia or almuerzo (plate of the day) which is usually a tasty, filling combination of soup, salad, rice, and a meat (often fried fish or chicken). Yum!

Make or bring your own food & snacks

Making your own meals helps stretch the funds here. San Cristobal actually has a small grocery store where you can stockpile items like tuna, bread, and produce for a DIY picnic anywhere. Prices are still shockingly higher than the mainland, but these DIY meals are much cheaper than a meal on the tourist strip.

Keep in mind that you cannot bring any produce (e.g. fruit, veg) out of protection for the flora here. Even some packaged goods like nuts may be sacked by airport security.

The Thrifty Gist

• Consider a land-based approach to seeing Galapagos via day tours or free/cheap activities on your own
• Avoid booking ahead for a multi-night cruise if you can
• If booking a last minute cruise, be sure to bring cash and/or know your bank's daily withdrawal limit
• Consider basic accommodation, pack some of your own meals, and/or check out local dining spots to cut costs. Save your budget for tours and exploring!

Related Posts

• 10 Ways to Explore the Galapagos on a Budget
• How to Plan Your Own Trip (& Save Big Travel Bucks)

Have you travelled the Galapagos on a shoestring? How did you cut costs? Have a general question or comment on how to do the islands cheaply? Share below!

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Thanks for the info Jen. I have a couple of questions – do you have any advice/comments on a single woman travelling alone? and since day trips don’t go to some islands, would it be a good idea to check for day trips first and then maybe book a multi-day cruise to islands that don’t have day trips? thanks, Maggie

I was wondering how you would book a last minute cruise yet still be able to have nice accommodations in case you don’t find one.

Thanks, Mary

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9 Best Galapagos Day Tours To See Incredible Wildlife

By: Author Lora Pope

Posted on July 4, 2023

This post may contain affiliate links. By clicking and making a purchase through the links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. See my disclaimer for more information. This and display ads allow me to keep the site up to date and give back .

Have you been wondering about the best Galapagos day tours? I’ve got you covered!

I spent three weeks island-hopping through this nature lovers’ paradise, going on just about every tour in the Galapagos there is.

Some are better than others, and I’m sharing which ones are worth your money in this post.

My Top 3 Picks: Galapagos Day Tours

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Full Day San Cristobal Tour

✅ See frigate birds and blue-footed boobies

✅ Snorkel with sea lions

✅ Chance to see hammerhead sharks

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Highlands Tour

✅ See giant tortoises up close

✅ Walk through lava tunnels

✅ Best land tour in the Galapagos

Los Tuneles

✅ See Galapagos penguins

✅ Best place to see seahorses

✅Snorkel with sharks and sea lions

As a digital nomad, connecting with nature when I’m not working is one of my favorite ways to destress from working online while traveling – and the Galapagos Islands are one of the best places in South America to do just that.

They are one of the last untouched places on this planet – I’ve never felt so connected to nature as I did there. It’s truly my favorite wildlife experience to date.

While many people think you have to do an all-inclusive cruise to see the Galapagos Islands, that’s not the case. It’s possible to visit the islands on your own and take Galapagos day tours for wildlife viewing.

In fact, island hopping in the Galapagos is the more economical, environmentally friendly, and socially responsible way to go, as your money will be going directly back to the island and conserving wildlife.

There are many day tours in the Galapagos you can take from the main four islands, and some are much better than others. To save you money and time, I’m sharing the ones worth going on in this guide.

Best Day Tours In The Galapagos From San Cristobal

1. full day san cristobal tour.

⭐️  RATING:  4/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   9 hours | ✅  Book it!

This full-day tour is a must-do if you’re visiting San Cristobal island in the Galapagos. It includes visiting Isla Lobos, an island about an hour away from San Cristobal.

Once you arrive, the guide will take you on an hour hiking trail to look for wildlife.

Isla Lobos is the only place in the Galapagos Islands where I saw the frigate birds up close. It also happened to be the frigate birds’ mating season, which made the experience all the more special. 

The male frigate birds will inflate their necks during this time to court a mate. It’s unbelievable how big they can get!

Isla Lobos was also where I first saw the incredible blue-footed boobies. On this tour , we saw many different life stages of the boobies. Some were trying to court a mate, while others were nesting with their eggs. We even saw a whole family of them snuggled up. Aww!

The landscape of Isla Lobos is rocky and wild. Wear closed-toe shoes for this day tour, as walking in sandals is difficult. As we walked along the rocks, we saw hundreds of marine iguanas.

Isla Lobos is also a perfect place to jump in the turquoise water and go snorkeling.

As soon as we jumped in the water, baby sea lions came to play with us! This happens all over the Galapagos, but I never got tired of it.

After Isla Lobos, you’ll be taken to Kicker Rock, an amazing landmark and place to snorkel. You can spot sea turtles, marine iguanas, rays, Galapagos sharks, tropical fish, and maybe even hammerhead sharks there.

This was an excellent tour especially the last stop at Kicker Rock. Here we saw at least 2 dozen large hammerhead sharks swimming 10 – 20 meters below us! – Walter (read more reviews here)

This tour includes:

• Snorkel equipment (mask and fins)
• Naturalist guide certified by the PNG

🤩 Check Prices and Availability!

2. Española Island from San Cristobal

⭐️  RATING:  Not yet rated | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   9 hours | ✅  Book it!

Known for its diverse range of fascinating species, this tour to Española Island promises an up-close and personal experience with some of the best wildlife you’ll find in these enchanted islands.

Once you arrive on these uninhabited islands, you’ll go on a two-hour walking tour, allowing you to explore the island’s breathtaking landscapes and come face to face with the majestic Galapagos albatross, the charismatic blue-footed boobies, and the curious iguanas that roam the island.

Your expert guide will be there every step of the way, sharing fascinating insights and ensuring you don’t miss a moment of this incredible wildlife spectacle.

After your exploration on land, it’s time to set sail to Gardner Islet to go snorkeling.

Keep your eyes peeled for sharks gracefully gliding through the depths and playful sea lions darting in and out of the underwater playground. Don’t worry about packing any gear because all the necessary snorkeling equipment is provided on this tour.

One of the best parts of this day tour is that it operates with small groups, ensuring you receive personalized attention from your knowledgeable guide.

With a smaller group, you’ll have more opportunities to ask questions, interact with your guide, and fully absorb the beauty and wonder of Española Island.

Galapagos Day Tours From Santa Cruz Island

3. diving at gordon rocks.

⭐️  RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   7-8 Hours | ✅  Book it!

Diving in the Galapagos does not come cheap, but it is worth every penny. Two of the best dive sites in the Galapagos are Gordon Rocks and North Seymour Island.

This tour begins with a scenic boat ride from Puerto Ayora to the northeast side of Santa Cruz Island.

Gordon Rocks is one of the best places in the world to find hammerhead sharks and oceanic sunfish.

You can also see Galapagos sharks, white-tip reef sharks, giant sea turtles, stingrays, moray eels, Galapagos eels, Barracudas, and various colorful reef fish.

This Galapagos diving day trip felt like I was in an episode of Planet Earth!

To dive at Gordon Rocks, you need to be an open-water diver and have a minimum of 25 logged dives due to the strong currents.

I didn’t have enough dives, but the instructors tested my skills at the first dive site, Seymour, to decide if I could dive at Gordon Rocks. Thank goodness they allowed me to do the second dive; I would have been so disappointed to miss it!

This full-day tour includes:

• Small group size of maximum eight people
• Prepared lunch on board the boat
• Naturalist guide leading the way

Pull relevant information from the sales page, from reviews on booking platforms, and from your personal experience.

“We were 4 divers and did daily diving with the agency to Seymour and Gordon Rocks. Everything was great and we had two amazing experiences!” – TripAdvisor Review (Read more reviews)

4. Highlands Tour (Giant Tortoises & Lava Caves)

⭐️  RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   3.5 hours | ✅  Book it!

The highlands tour is one of the cheaper day tours in the Galapagos and the best way to see the incredible Giant Tortoises in their natural habitat.

It takes you about an hour from the main town, Puerto Ayora, into the highlands of the island of Santa Cruz to the Giant Tortoise Wildlife Reserve, where you’ll be guaranteed to see these amazing creatures.

After visiting the tortoises, you’ll get to walk through these incredible lava tunnels. It’s such a cool experience and one of the best-land-based tours in the Galapagos.

” Carla was the perfect guide, she knew everything from the types of birds we saw to the layers of rock names in the lava tubes. I highly recommend this tour as we had private access to the lava tubes and the giant tortoise experience as well as private transportation” – Emilio (Read more reviews)

5. Santa Fe Island

⭐️  RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   8 hours | ✅  Book it!

This tour to Santa Fe Island was the last one I did, and it ended up being one of my favorites on the trip. Santa Fe Island is home to rare land iguanas, a giant cactus forest, and great snorkeling opportunities.

While snorkeling, we got to swim with a colony of sea lions and saw sea turtles, reef sharks, and colorful schools of fish!

After snorkeling, a delicious hot lunch is served on the boat to keep you fueled up.

The second part of the tour takes you on a guided hike around Santa Fe Island, where there are many marine iguanas sunbathing on the rocks.

Marine iguanas are a unique species of the Galapagos Islands. They are black and can survive in the water for up to an hour, a biological adaptation unique to the Galapagos.

“I just didnt want to do the big cruise for my trip so did a lot of Galapagos day trips and this might have been my favorite. The crew and guide on the boat were outstanding and could not have been nicer ” -TripAdvisor (Read more reviews)

7. South Plaza Island from Puerto Ayora

For travelers eager to explore the extraordinary wildlife without committing to a cruise, this day trip to South Plaza Island is an absolute must.

From the moment you step aboard the yacht at Itabaca Canal, you’ll be treated to a seamless experience with complimentary hotel pickup, ensuring a stress-free start to your adventure.

As you embark on this scenic journey, prepare to be amazed as you get up close and personal with the iconic inhabitants of the Galapagos. It’s the only island where land iguanas and marine iguanas meet!

Upon reaching Punta Carrion, dive into the crystal-clear waters and snorkel alongside magnificent white-tip sharks and graceful sea turtles.

The provided snorkel gear ensures you have everything you need to fully immerse yourself in this underwater paradise, where vibrant coral reefs and an abundance of marine life await.

No need to worry about packing a meal either, as a delicious box lunch is thoughtfully provided during the tour.

“We loved this small island with a great vegetation, amazing sea lions and iguanas! We will definitely come back !” -TripAdvisor (Read more reviews) 🤩 Check Prices and Availability!

Isabella Island Galapagos Day Tours

6. los tuneles.

⭐️  RATING:  4.5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   6 hours | ✅  Book it!

If you visit Isabella Island, this day tour to Los Tuneles is an absolute must.

The area was formed by a lava flow that hardened, leaving tunnels that flow through the ocean. It is such an interesting place to see!

What makes Los Tuneles even more amazing is that it is a refuge for many sea animals from the larger predators in the ocean. This is because the water is shallow, so bigger mammals like whales cannot get in.

The tour starts with a boat ride from Isabella Island into the Tuneles area. We saw Galapagos penguins on the boat ride over, which was so exciting. It’s my dream to see all penguin species in the wild, so I was pumped to cross these guys off the list.

After the boat tour, we walked onto the land and took a short guided walk through the area, where we saw many blue-footed boobies. These ones were particularly interesting because they were trying to court a mate by showing off their feet.

From there, we went on a guided snorkeling tour where we saw several sea turtles, white-tipped sharks (and baby ones!), seahorses, and large pools of tropical fish.

Los Tuneles is by far one of the best day tours to take on Isabella Island in the Galapagos.

“Seahorses! Octopus! Sharks! Turtles! Rays! All within 15 minutes of snorkeling. There no way we would have found the seahorse or the octopus without our guide, Darwin” – TripAdvisor (Read more reviews)

🤩 Check Prices and Availability

8. Sierra Negra Volcano Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   4 hours | ✅  Book it!

Sierra Negra is a large volcano at the southeastern end of Isabela Island. You can join this day hiking tour to see the volcanic crater, which looks incredible.

Unfortunately for me, this tour was a disappointment for me due to uncontrollable weather circumstances.

We hiked for about an hour to what was supposed to be a viewpoint of the crater of Sierra Negra. However, because it was raining and cloudy that day, we couldn’t see anything.

I’m sure this volcano would look amazing on a clear day, but it just wasn’t the case for me. But these other guests seem happy, so give it a try if the weather is on your side.

“This tour was amazing! The hike towards Sierra Negra wasn’t too bad but the views of the caldera and the view of the north side of the island and Fernandina was great too! ” – TripAdvisor ( Read more reviews)

9. Isabella City and Tintoreras from Santa Cruz

⭐️  RATING:  4.5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   10 hours | ✅  Book it!

If you don’t have time to stay overnight on Isabella Island but want to see the Galapagos penguins, this Isabela island day tour from Santa Cruz is the best way.

You’ll first stop at Las Tintoreres Islote, which is located just 15 minutes from the boat of Isabela. We saw the penguins leaving the port, and then you’ll have the chance to snorkel in the water with marine life.

Afterward, you’ll be taken to the Centro de Crianza Arnaldo Tupiza, an important turtle breeding center in the Galapagos, where you can see 5 species of giant tortoises of the 14 that exist in the Galapagos.

At the last stop, you’ll explore the Isabela Island Wetlands Complex, which is a 1.6km trail where you can spot a variety of seabirds.

“Great day saw lots of animals penguins sea lion flamingo and sharks actually we’re able to snorkel with sharks” -Deborah (Read more reviews)

FAQs About Day Trips Galapagos

What are the best day trips in the galapagos islands.

Some of the best day trips in the Galapagos Islands include visiting Bartolome Island, North Seymour Island, Kicker Rock, Los Tuneles, and Isabela Island.

What Day Trips in Galapagos Islands are good for avoiding crowds?

Day trips to lesser-known islands such as Española tend to have fewer visitors and offer a more secluded experience.

Can you do a day trip to Galapagos Islands?

You cannot do a day trip to the Galapagos Islands from the mainland, but you can take day trips to various islands in the Galapagos once you’re there. This is a great option for travelers who want to explore the islands without committing to a longer cruise.

What is the best way to tour the Galapagos Islands?

The best way to tour the Galapagos Islands is through a combination of day trips to different islands and exploring their unique ecosystems, wildlife, and natural wonders.

Can you visit Galapagos without a tour guide?

Yes, you can visit the main islands without a guide. However, many of the smaller islands that you can visit as day trips require a licensed tour guide to ensure the preservation of the delicate ecosystem and wildlife, as well as to provide valuable information and guidance during your visit.

How much time do you need to see the Galapagos Islands?

To fully experience the Galapagos Islands, it is recommended to spend at least 5 to 7 days exploring the different islands and their diverse habitats. I spent three weeks in the Galapagos and didn’t get bored.

What is the entrance fee to the Galapagos Islands?

The amount of this entrance fee depends on the age and nationality of the tourist. Most foreign tourists over the age of 12 pay $100, while children pay $50.

What month is best for Galapagos?

The Galapagos Islands can be visited year-round, but the best months for wildlife sightings and favorable weather conditions are generally considered to be from December to May. However, I visited the Galapagos in June and had a great time.

Final Thoughts: Galapagos Tours

From the captivating South Plaza Island to the wildlife extravaganza of Española Island, these Galapagos day tours offer a gateway to rare wildlife encounters and breathtaking natural wonders without taking a cruise.

I loved every second of my time in the Galapagos, and can’t wait to go back.

🤩 Still can’t decide? This tour to Santa Fe Island is my top choice. It gives you a great overview of Galapagos wildlife – including marine iguanas and snorkeling with sea lions.

Need more wildlife travel inspiration?

• Visiting the Ecuador Amazon Rainforest
• Best Places to See Tigers in the Wild Ethically
• Costa Rica Wildlife Guide
• 7 Reasons to Volunteer on a Wildlife Conservation Project

Lora is a full-time digital nomad on a quest to visit every country in the world and pet as many dogs as she can along the way. Over the last 15 years, she has traveled to 70+ countries and six continents solo. She currently calls Puerto Vallarta, Mexico home and enjoys ending each day with sunset and tacos on the beach.

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Hi and gracias for the great post. I am in the same situation as you were – not enough dives for Gordon Rocks. However, I am confident that I have the ability to do this dive and would like to be “tested” as they did to you. What company did you use? Thanks again.

[…] the world, but one of the best places to see them is the Galapagos Islands. Divers can join a day tour in the Galapagos to Gordon Rocks, near the island of Santa Cruz. It’s one of the top dive sites in the […]

Hi Lora. Very useful articles. Thanks for your effort. I have one question. My wife has got motion and sea sickness. Especially in the small boat, she is really frustrating.. How was the boat trips? I know it depends on the sea and season but was there any people who were the same on your tour?

Hi! It depends what tour you are talking about. The boat rides between the islands (San Cristobal, Isabell, and Santa Cruz) are a bit rough and could cause motion sickness. Most of the day tour boats were not that bad, with the exception of the diving boat that went from Santa Cruz to Seymour dive site. It was a long ride and many people got sick!

Well, I can say that there isn’t any single I have ever met who doesn’t praise the Galapagos. But the still the people has their choices and preference before they judge. I hope you have your both good and bad experience which are important as well.

Hi thanks for the awesome post 🙂 Did you book your day trips in advance? Do you have any recommendations which tour companies to book with? Thanks!!

I just booked them a day or two before at the shops. You can book them online in advance but you’ll have no problem just showing up. The only specific tour company that stands out to me is Scuba Iguana for diving. Otherwise I just walked around town and looked for the best price. There’s tons of tour companies there and they all kinda do the same tours!

[…] world famous for its incredible wildlife and the underwater world is no exception. One of the best tours in the Galapagos is to visit Gordon Rocks, a dive site near the island of Santa […]

Hi thanks for the great post. We are going by yacht to San Christobel and only have time/ money for one or two day trips for our family of five, our interests are snorkeling and seeing wildlife. Would you recommend we go to any other island or just do a couple of trips in San christobel eg Isla Lobas? Thanks in advance

Glad you found the post helpful! It depends on what wildlife you want to see. You can see a lot of the Galapagos wildlife just in San Cristobal, but there are certain species you can only see on the other islands. For example, you can only see Galapagos penguins on Isabella island, and Santa Cruz is one of the best places to see the giant tortoises. That being said, if you only have a few days San Cristobal is a great choice for wildlife tours. You can see sea lions just hanging out in town! Isla Lobos is amazing and Kicker Rock is one of the most famous snorkeling sites. Hope that helps!

Galapagos Islands - One Day Tours

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Please send me more info and current offers for your Galapagos Islands - One Day Tours.

Single Day Tours in the Galapagos Islands

There’s so much to see in the Galapagos Islands, and it’s almost impossible to explore the wealth of breathtaking geologic formations, friendly island critters, and lively offshore worlds in a single trip. No worries, our Galapagos day tours have you and your adventure needs covered. 

We’ve crafted some day trip options so that you can make your Galapagos Islands Vacation even more phenomenal and tailored to your travel preferences. Snorkel with lolling sea lions or look for land iguanas. Hike to panoramic viewpoints with postcard-worthy shots. Or slip on some diving gear for a day exploring the Galapagos Islands’ most stunning, and hidden, sea-scapes. Make the most of your trip and go further, explore more, see more with our Galápagos day tours.

Note: All of our Day Tours are offered on a daily basis and as stand alone activities.  

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DIVING IN THE GALAPAGOS - DAY TOUR

The Galapagos Islands are a top diving destination.  Don't miss out on an opportunity to explore the archipelago’s underwater world where you'll find the seas teaming with incredible wildlife.

Note: Most of the diving in the Galapagos is an activity for experienced divers; however there are limited options for novice divers. Regardless of your diving ability, certification is recommended. 

Trip Info:  Guests may dive from Santa Cruz or San Cristóbal Islands, with diving trips to Gordon Rocks or Kicker Rocks. However, other diving destinations may be available.  Diving activities must be requested in advance, and guests must bring their diving certification with them to the Galapagos. Equipment provided. 

• Pricing:  $315 per person for 2 dives
• Departs:  Daily
• Duration:  8-10 hours (approx)

EXPLORE BARTOLOME ISLAND - DAY TOUR

The top of Bartolomé Island offers a stunning, panoramic view of the Galapagos Islands with views of iconic Pinnacle Rock and bordering coves. Snorkeling right off the beach allows guests to often see and get close to sea turtles, sea lions, and possibly Galapagos penguins.  This is a day trip that starts in Santa Cruz.

Trip Info :  We offer daily departures of our Bartolome Island day tour from Santa Cruz Island.    We recommend booking this popular activity in advance .  This full-day tour includes a 2-hour boat ride from Santa Cruz and includes at least several hours of snorkeling time.  For this activity, bring hiking shoes, sunscreen, a bathing suit, camera, and a hat.

• Pricing:  $315 per person 
• Departs:  Daily
• Duration:  8 hours (approx)

EXPLORE NORTH SEYMOUR ISLAND - DAY TOUR

Our day trip to North Seymour Island offers great opportunities to see tons of blue-footed boobies as well as frigatebirds, red-billed tropicbirds, swallow-tailed gulls, sea lions and Galapagos land iguanas. North Seymour is incredibly rich and varied in wildlife, so there’s plenty of incredible photo opportunities with these friendly animals. Bacchus beach is also a great snorkeling site for those who want a further glimpse into the Galapagos Islands’ underwater world.

Trip Info:   We offer daily departures of our North Seymour day tour from Santa Cruz Island.  We recommend booking this popular activity in advance . This full-day tour includes both on-land and in-water activities.  For this activity, bring hiking shoes, sunscreen, a bathing suit, camera, and a hat.

MEALS INCLUDED : Lunch

Dates & Rates

Supplementary information.

Daily tours available starting at $315 per day 

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First-timer's guide to the Galápagos Islands

Mar 1, 2020 • 5 min read

Planning is paramount before a booking a trip to the Galapagos Islands © Jesse Kraft / Getty Images

Wildlife is sure to wow visitors to the Galápagos Islands , but the archipelago has so much more to offer. Before a journey to this bucket-list destination, proper planning is paramount. Here’s what to know before you go.

From the adrenaline rush of snorkeling nose-to-nose with white-tipped reef sharks to the wonder of watching up-close as blue-footed boobies perform mating dances on the sand, visitors can experience firsthand how locals coexist in harmony with the creatures of the Galápagos Islands – home to the rarest and most diverse species found in the world, and the inspiration behind Darwin’s Theory of Evolution. 

There, time stands still, animals rule, and people delight in close encounters with wildlife, as there are no natural predators for the animals to fear. And beyond the one-of-a-kind wildlife viewings , there’s so much more to explore. In order to fully embrace a journey to the Galápagos Islands, it’s important to go properly prepared. 

What to pack 

From the jagged, jet-black lava fields of Santiago Island, to the powdery-soft beaches of Mosquera Islet, the landscape varies greatly throughout the Galápagos Islands, so proper footwear is fundamental. Sturdy, waterproof sandals will be required for wet landings, and lightweight runners or hiking boots will provide the proper support and protection from the rocky, uneven surfaces encountered during dry land hikes.

Weather waxes and wanes throughout the day, so prepare for both warm and wet environments. While the temperatures aren’t typically tropical, high-SPF sunscreens, protective sunglasses and neck-shading sun hats are essential, as the proximity to the equator means it can be easy to burn – even on cloudy days. 

For long days on the water, manage motion sickness with a patch or over-the-counter pills and pack a small first-aid kit filled with essential medications that you may need while out at sea. Bug repellent isn’t mandatory, but it might help to prevent bites during longer inland explorations.

Shorts and t-shirts will suffice on most days, however, a light raincoat and sweater will provide comfort on wetter days and cooler mornings. Avoid slipping on soggy swimsuits by packing a few, as the night air can be humid and swimming and snorkeling are sure to occur several times throughout the day.

Most importantly, bring a fully-charged camera with back-up batteries to capture the stunning scenery and fantastic flora and fauna found throughout the islands – many of which are unique only to this part of the world.

How to get to the Gal á pagos Islands

 There are two stopover cities to choose from when traveling through Ecuador ’s mainland en route to the Galápagos Islands: Quito or Guayaquil . While both are stunning cities, Guayaquil is Ecuador’s largest city, has more frequent direct flights to the islands, and is closer in proximity. 

Hotel del Parque – the first luxury boutique hotel to open in Guayaquil, is situated in the suburb of Samborondon, is a short 10-minute drive from the airport. Transportation can be arranged through the hotel. Situated on a tropical oasis, the restored 19th-century property offers authentic Ecuadorian cuisine and a peaceful setting to catch up on sleep before embarking on the remainder of the journey to the Galápagos.

There are two major airports on the Galápagos Islands: Seymour Airport (serving the island of Baltra), and San Cristobal (found on the island of Cristobal). The arrival and departure airport will depend on the location of the cruise departure or land accommodation site.

Before entering the area, a mandatory park fee must be paid by most visitors coming from overseas. In an effort to reduce over-tourism, each visiting adult traveler must pay USD$100. This rate is set to double by the end of 2020.

You might also like: Ultimate Ecuador: plan your perfect adventure  

Where to stay 

Water-loving wanderers often opt for a stay aboard a cruise ship or on one of the eco-friendly yachts, but there are land-based accommodations available as well.

While cruising tends to be the more common choice, a land-based stay offers a well-rounded option, providing visitors with opportunities to connect with the local people and culture, experience close encounters with the land-bound wildlife more frequently, and enjoy a restful sleep – ideal for those prone to seasickness, or guests looking for breaks to settle their sea legs. 

For a more affordable land-based option, Puerto Ayora provides hostel-style accommodations, however day trips and excursions to attractions found throughout the islands will need to be booked separately.

Pikaia Lodge , a luxury eco-lodge found on Santa Cruz , sits in the heart of a private tortoise reserve, perched on the edge of an extinct volcanic crater, and overlooks acres of endemic Scalesia trees. 

Darwin delights in every corner of the luxury lodge, which nods to the connection to the Theory of Evolution that emerged from Darwin’s visit to the Galápagos Islands, and the five-star cuisine, private 100ft luxury yacht, on-site spa and infinity pool provide the perfect setting for restful downtime in between days of adventure throughout the Galápagos Islands.

What to see and do 

For island visits, the guidance of a certified tour guide is mandatory. This can be arranged through cruise excursions or as a part of a hotel package. Wildlife viewing is a must, but the islands also offer adventure spots beyond the ocean’s edge. 

Observe giant Galápagos tortoises in the wild and learn about the history of the significant species at El Chato Tortoise Reserve , found on Santa Rosa. Afterward, explore the underground world of the islands by creeping through the on-site lava tube caves. 

Head to Academy Bay and mingle with locals at the waterfront fish market and then stroll through the artisanal shops and purchase cacao treats, lava-laced jewelry and locally-grown coffee beans during a visit to town.

Then, hike along stunning stone pathways to Tortuga Bay and watch as black marine iguanas run along the white sandy beach. Head past the unswimmable Playa Brava and kayak with sea turtles and sharks at the hidden bay of Playa Mansa, found just beyond a mass of mangroves that line the shore. 

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Galapagos Islands on a Budget

If you know one thing about the Galapagos (aside from the fact there’s a tonne of cool animals) it’s probably that it’s really, really expensive.

Well, what if I told you it didn’t have to cost you an arm, a leg, three fingers and a toe? Yes, that’s right, you can visit the Galapagos on a budget!

Thom and I spent around one week in the Galapagos while we were backpacking for three months in South America.

In this post, I’ll show you how to travel to the Galapagos and how much our trip to the Galapagos Islands cost (spoiler alert it’s probably a lot less than you thought travelling to the Galapagos cost!).

It is 100% possible to visit the Galapagos Islands but you can’t really travel to the Galapagos cheaply (it’s not a $10 a day place!).

However, you can go to the Galapagos Islands on a budget if you know what you’re doing.

The key to doing a budget Galapagos Islands trip

If you want to plan your dream Galapagos Islands vacation you should forego the cruise. Yes, that’s right, do not plan a Galapagos Islands trip that involves a cruise if you want to visit these islands on a budget.

Galapagos Island cruises cost £2000 and upwards. They’re more commonly at least £3000/$4980 (and that’s for a “cheap: Galapagos cruise).

This meant when we thought about doing a Galapagos Islands trip as part of our South American adventures, we ruled the cruise option out straight away.

The more I looked into Galapagos travel, the more I realised it was possible to do a Galapagos holiday without a cruise. I’d thought the islands were tiny and that there wasn’t much on them. Turns out several of them are actually big towns. They have shops, restaurants and everything else you’d need.

So, instead of doing a Galapagos Islands, Ecuador cruise we opted for a land based trip where we’d do some island hopping.

We didn’t to a Galapagos Islands tour or vacation package and spent 8 nights in the Galapagos Islands, using Puerto Ayora on the island of Santa Cruz as our base.

If you’re planning to go to the Galapagos with a tour company, your Galapagos holiday cost will skyrocket.

A 6 day tour with the company Galakiwi costs about three times as much as we spent on our Galapagos vacation.

An 8 day land based tour with Raw Adventures costs even more! As far as I’m concerned these tours didn’t do anything I didn’t do, and they probably didn’t see any cooler animals either. Here’s how to visit the Galapagos Islands on a budget!

About the Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands are a volcanic archipelago in the Pacific Ocean and are part of Ecuador. They’re famous for the diversity of plant and animal species.

The Galapagos Islands population is roughly 25,000 and the main language is Spanish.

It’s also where Charles Darwin began to come up with his theory of evolution. If you’re interested in reading about Charles Darwin’s time in the Galapagos then check out this book LINK. I read it while we were over there and found it super interesting.

How many Galapagos islands are there?

The Galapagos consist of 13 major islands and 6 smaller islands. On top of this there are huge numbers of islets and rocks in the area that resemble tiny islands too.

Where are the Galapagos Islands located?

The Galapagos Islands location is about 1,000km off the coast of mainland Ecuador.

What’s the typical Galapagos Islands weather?

Whilst the Galapagos Islands are on the equator, the Galapagos weather isn’t tropical. Temperatures range from 69°-84°F / 21°-30°C. From June to December there tends to be a layer of high atmosphere mist in the sky.

Galapagos Islands map

Check out this Galapagos map to get your bearings.

What Galapagos Islands animals will I see?

While we were in the Galapagos Islands we saw a lot of Galapagos animals. It’d be impossible to visit and not see any. The main Galapagos Islands species we saw were; both land and marine iguanas (these guys are EVERYWHERE!), bright orange crabs, rays, the Galapagos penguin, giant tortoises, sharks, SO many birds, and sea lions.

How to get to the Galapagos Islands

If you’re wondering “how do you get to the Galapagos Islands” here’s your guide.

Getting to the Galapagos involves catching a plane. You’ll need to get to mainland Ecuador first and then getting from Ecuador to the Galapagos Islands is super easy.

You can take a plane from either Quito or Guayaquil. Guayaquil is closest to the Galapagos Islands and if you fly from Quito you’ll probably stop in Guayaquil along the way.

Most Galapagos fights tend to be early in the morning or in the evening. We were flying to the Galapagos via Quito from Peru so ended up sleeping on the floor of the airport for a few hours before our flight!

If you’re planning a similar Galapagos trip to what I’ve outlined below then look to fly into Baltra Island. From here you’ll take a bus and a ferry ride to Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island.

Skyscanner is what I use to find cheap flights.

Best time to go to the Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos only really has two seasons. Those are: cool and dry (June to November) and warm and wet (December to June). We visited at the end of July and I don’t remember it being too wet.

In general the warmer season is the best time to visit especially since the seas are calmer with good underwater visibility if you plan to snorkel or scuba.

How much does an 8 day Galapagos Islands trip cost?

Here’s a breakdown of how much our Galapagos Islands vacation cost.

Cost of flights to the Galapagos Islands

Cost of flying to the Galapagos Islands:: £278.58/$462.53

This was at the end of July (high season) for return tickets. This price includes all the taxes and extra bits airline companies add.

This involved taking a flight from Quito to the Galapagos with a stop in Guayaquil. We landed at Baltra Island which is one of the main Galapagos airports.

I used (and always use) Skyscanner to book my tickets to fly to the Galapagos Islands. It makes it super easy to find cheap flights to the Galapagos – well cheaper anyway!

Galapagos Islands National Park Entry & Visas

$110 (£66.27) each

Since the Galapagos is a National Park you need to pay to enter. You also have to buy a visa. There’s no avoiding these charges either.

Before you leave Quito or Guayaquil you must make sure you’ve had your check-in bags scanned and that you’ve paid $10 for a form you have to fill in. This form is your visa while you’re on the Galapagos Islands.

You also must take an extra $100 in cash to pay once you’ve landed at your chosen Galapagos Islands airport.

There are no cash machines at the airports and you cannot pay by card. We found this out the hard way.

Transport from the airport to your accommodation

Taxi/Bus from the airport: $16/$2 respectively + $1 for the boat (£10.24 or £1.81)

If you’re flying to the island of Baltra you have a bit of a journey ahead of you until you actually get to a town.

First, you should take the free shuttle bus from the airport to the small port where the Galapagos ferry leaves from. The ferry takes 2 minutes (it basically crosses a canal, not a section of ocean) and you’ll land on the island of Santa Cruz. The ferry costs $1 each.

When you arrive you then have the choice of taking a taxi ($16 per taxi), or hanging about until one of the buses to Puerto Ayora leaves ($2 each).

The taxi drivers will try and tell you that there’s no buses into Puerto Ayora; that’s a lie. There’s no timetable for the buses though, they work on a “we’ll go when we’re full” policy.

Cost of accommodation in the Galapagos Islands

£70/$116.20 for 8 nights

I travelled with my boyfriend and the two of us paid £70 each for eight nights (£140 total) in an Airbnb rental. This Airbnb doesn’t seem to be available anymore but I have suggested some alternative accommodation of a similar price below.

Our accommodation was about a 15-20 minute walk from the port in Puerto Ayora making getting around pretty easy. The rental had three bedrooms and the owners lived upstairs. The room was also cleaned everyday with fresh towels and linen provided every other day. All in all a fantastic deal, definitely one of the best places to stay in the Galapagos Islands if you ask me!

Where to stay on the Galapagos Islands

Since our Airbnb is no longer available here is some of the best budget Galapagos accommodation. All these places to stay in the Galapagos Islands are a similar price to what we paid back in 2014 (roughly £20/$25US a night for two people).

Cheap Galapagos Islands hostels

A lot of the Airbnbs available in Puerto Ayora is also hostels. These Santa Cruz, Galapagos hostels get great reviews and offer cheap Galapagos Islands accommodation too.

If you’re trying to stick to a budget then you’ll find the cheapest accommodation in Santa Cruz is pretty much all hostels. However, if you get a double or single room then it basically feels like a hotel anyway! Galapagos Islands hotels tend to be much more pricey and I honestly don’t think they’re worth it.

• Eden Galapagos House : A private room in a beautiful looking house and includes breakfast.
• Spectacular villa in the hills: Stunning villa in the hills above the town. Perfect for luxury lovers!
• Gala House Galapagos :  Budget-friendly private rooms with gorgeous mountains views.
• Hotel Ninfa: This beautiful guest house has bright rooms and lovely outdoor space.
• Hostal Gardner Galapagos : Budget-friendly and close to everything you’ll need in town.

Save money on your first Airbnb booking here!

Food costs in the Galapagos

Roughly $7/£4.22 a day

Obviously it depends what you want to do for food. If you eat out at touristy restaurant the cost will be a lot higher.

We ate out along a small street of restaurants in Puerto Ayora. I’m not sure there’s a road name but if you walk up Avenue Baltra, away from the port, you’ll see the street on your left hand side. At night it comes alive with tables outside and lots of hungry tourists and locals. You can find a two course dinner, with a drink for less than $3.

Compared to the more tourist-y restaurants where one main course will set you back about $15, this is a way to keep costs down and eat traditional Ecuadorian food at the same time.

If you opt to stay in a hostel, or Airbnb then you’ll probably also have access to a kitchen. The biggest supermarket is right by the port and cooking for yourselves keeps costs even lower!

Since our Airbnb had a kitchen we’d make breakfast there, take a packed lunch and then sometimes cook dinner at home too. This is the best way to travel on a budget!

Cost of tours and trips on the Galapagos Islands

There are actually quite a lot of free things to do in the Galapagos, especially on the island of Santa Cruz, and it’s a great place to use as your base for Galapagos day tours and activities.

As we didn’t do a cruise, we did our own version of Galapagos island hopping by doing several day tours. Below is an outline of everything we we got up to during our 8 days in the Galapagos Islands on a budget. This includes trips to some of the best islands to visit in the Galapagos and shows you how to do Galapagos tours on a budget.

Santa Cruz Bay Tour $35/£21.08

If you’re wondering what to do in the Galapagos I’d highly recommend the Santa Cruz bay tour. You’ll get on a small boat and head out on the water around Santa Cruz checking out some of the bays, snorkelling and seeing plenty of wildlife.

Santa Fé Snorkelling Tour $60/£36.15

This Galapagos Islands day trip takes you over to Santa Fé island which is great for snorkelling with sea lions.

You also get to visit “Hidden Beach” which very few tours, and no cruises, have access to.

Lunch is included along with full snorkelling equipment. Wetsuit hire is $10 extra.

Bike rental $15/£9.04

We hired a bike for an entire day which came with helmets, maps and a tool kit (just in case!).

The bikes were extremely well looked after and we had no problems at all. We used the bikes to head over to some caves, explore the backroads of Santa Cruz that we hadn’t seen yet and visited a more remote beach.

This was one of the best Galapagos tours we did and the cheapest too!

Day Trip to Isabela Island, Galapagos $60/£36.15

Day tours to Isabela Island cost upwards of $90 and include transport, lunch and a couple of activities. Instead we just paid the cost of a boat ticket and did our own tour of the island which cost substantially less.

The ticket for the 2 hour ferry journey from Santa Cruz to Isabela cost $30 each way and then we spent $3 each on a set menu lunch and visited the tortoise breeding centre (the main attraction) for free. While we waited for our boat back I also swam with penguins in the sea: free!

Free things to do in the Galapagos Islands

You’re in luck if you’re wondering what to do in the Galapagos Islands for free . There’s plenty to keep you entertained and you’re bound to see some interested animals along the way.

We spent some afternoons at the beach where we saw sharks in the surf and iguanas on the walkover. We visited the Darwin Research Centre and saw some giant tortoises, wandered around the port where the birds were waiting to be fed fish from the fishermen’s latest haul and visited the beautiful Las Ninfas (some beautiful green pools with a boardwalk where we saw some rays).

Scuba Diving

We didn’t go scuba diving in the Galapagos Islands but if you’re looking to Scuba dive then the best scuba diving company in the Galapagos is Tiptop Diving .

Tiptop Diving charge approx. $150 for a full day, all equipment, 2 tanks and lunch (not included in totals as we didn’t scuba dive).

Getting around Santa Cruz Island

If you’re staying in Peurto Ayora then it’s easy enough to walk from place to place. The main hub is pretty small. You can also rent a bike (as above) or take taxis if you’re exploring further afield.

You can expect to pay about $40/£24.10 for a taxi to the highlands (price per car) which includes paying for the taxi to wait while you explore.

All rides within the town of Puerto Ayora cost $1. Some taxi driver may try and charge $2 as a “night rate”, don’t pay the extra.

Total cost for 8 days on the Galapagos Islands

£569.06/$944.73

This is based on getting a taxi to and from the port for the airport on Baltra, Galapagos.

On top of the fact that doing it yourself is clearly loads cheaper, you also get the freedom to decide what you want to do and when. Want a lie in one day? That’s fine. Want to cook for yourselves? You can!

Last Updated on December 29, 2023 by Hannah

Hannah started That Adventurer after graduating back in 2013 and has documented all of her adventures since then. From backpacking South America to city breaks in Europe , a 3 month road trip across the USA in a self-converted van and 6 years living in Canada , you’ll find posts on all of this.

Hannah specialises in active travel and on That Adventurer you’ll find hiking, walking, biking, skiing and all sorts of active travel guides to allow you to see a destination in an adventurous way.

Now back in Europe, you’ll find new guides as Hannah and her husband spend the next year ‘digital nomading’ from Norway to Portugal, Switzerland to Scotland and places in between.

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Thanks so much for these costings, they are really helpful and another great post!

Thanks Dante! I hope you get to visit the Galapagos soon!

I often prefer to make my own plans instead of ones from a tour. Just a little bit of research can go a long way to having a great time at a fraction of the cost.

Definitely! Tours can be fun sometimes but the costs are also so much higher!

Wow, it really does add up, but it seems like you made it work planning it your own way! I would love to visit someday! 🙂

It really does. The cruises cost so much more though! I hope you get to go someday too! 🙂

I missed out Galapagos when I was travelling in Ecuador, because I couldn’t afford it. Sadly £569.06 would still have been too much for me, but I do agree that this is a lot cheaper then the organised tours and probably worth it due to the incredible sights the islands offer.

It is definitely still expensive yes but a great experience too. Mainly the taxes and the flights that make it cost so much.

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Budget Tours & Trips to Galapagos Islands

Explore a varied offer of budget Galapagos adventures that will take you through some of the most well known destinations such as Isla Santa Cruz and Isla Isabela. Each affordable Galapagos Islands tour will provide you with memorable experiences for some of the lowest prices on the market. Find here the best Galapagos tours .

86 Budget Galapagos Islands tour packages with 144 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year

Galápagos Adventure: Snorkelling & Sea Lions

Excellent tour, I really enjoyed everything about it. And our tour guide Danilo was amazing. I really recommend G Adventures.

Galapagos Discovery

lovely tour - very good itinerary and comfortable pace

Galápagos Express Adventure: Wilderness & Wildlife

Jonathan knows so much about wildlife of the region, and he was good at getting us organised. The activities were cool, and it was balanced with enough free time. Our team was great and loved hanging out with each other. We loved seeing sea turtles and sea lions, and all kinds of things. I was a little disappointed when we went to Kicker's Rock on San Cristobal island as we got stung by jellyfish and didn't see anything else but jellyfish. That day tour had been highly recommended, and was very expensive. We had an awesome boat to ride to and from though. Also I am disappointed that TourRadar did not communicate about my husband's dietary needs for when meals were included or to our tour leader, or help us with booking accommodation as we were getting there a day early, or giving us any help with transportation as we arrived into a different island. We would have liked to be connected with a local to help us not be so stressed about this part of the trip.

Galapagos Experience

I was very happy with this tour. Seeing giant iguanas and enormous tortoises is something I shall never forget! My guide, Fernando, was friendly, knowledgeable and professional. I learned so much! Best of all, because Fernando is a local I also learned interesting details of life on the islands. Though there was an age range, Intrepid appeals to people who want to truly immerse themselves in the local experience. In a single week I made lifelong friends.

• Hiking & Trekking

Affordable Galapagos 8 Days Tour

A good variety of tours, knowledgable guides, and a surreal atmosphere. Everything is made easy for you so you just show up and enjoy the wildlife.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

5 Days San Cristobal Island Wonders

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

10 Days Galapagos Highlights Small Group Tour

Really enjoyed it. Our guide was Pedro, and he really knew his stuff. The canoe rides and sightseeing were unforgettable. The food and restaurant service was great. The only suggestion I have is to give warning when the power and water are to go off, so we could plan around it.

Galapagos Experience: 5 days

• €134 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Volunteering

Galapagos Experience Volunteering & Travel 3 Weeks

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS DISCOVERY TOUR 4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS

When we arrived in the Galapagos, Johnny, the owner of Natura Gardens welcomed us with a sign. He showed us how to get a bus ticket, rode with us in the boat taxi and then transported us in his vehicle to the hotel. Upon our arrival at the Natura Gardens, Johnny, his family and staff were so welcoming, accommodating and generous. My husband and I were celebrating our Honeymoon. Johnny created the word "LOVE" with rose petals on our bed and made us a romantic candlelit dinner with fresh flowers. We were astonished and overjoyed with his thoughtfulness to make our stay so special. You can feel Johnny's love for his community and excitement for the excursions we participated in. He always asked about our experiences and our thoughts. Johnny knows a lot about the Galapagos and told us a lot about the area. He did a wonderful job giving us our itinerary and what to expect for each activity. The food was excellent and always served in a timely manner. We absolutely recommend the Natura Gardens for your next stay! The staff are so friendly and welcoming, their generosity is unmatched.

Ultimate Galapagos 6 Days Tour

it was a great tour in Ecuador mainland and the Galapagos Islands , good price and excellent service thanks again Guidecuador Travel

Highlights Of Quito and Galapagos Islands

The tour organized by Indus Travels was flawless. Hotels, tours, and transportation all impressed me. We had a very relaxing time knowing what was happening at each stage. The scenery and activities were fantastic and did not disappoint. The highlight of the trip was definitely Galapagos Islands.

7 Day Galapagos Island Hopping Budget

We loved this tour! Having everything booked for us in advance and guides at each stop was a wonderful way to experience this trip. Everyday we had a new daily guide who knew their stuff and made the trip go that extra step. We loved the balance between the hiking and snorkeling and that we got to do those adventures on multiple islands, not just one spot. For travelers who want to experience a nice variety of what a location, this was perfect! Thank you Rebecca Adventure Travels for helping this beginner travel couple have a wonderful Honeymoon in their #1 bucket list travel location! We will definitely look you up again for our next big adventure!

Discover the best of Santa Cruz in a basic 4 days and 3 nights tour!

It was a short tour that we squeezed in before our longer tour in Peru so no complaints but wish we had stayed longer in Galapagos too and visited some islands. The tour was simple and easy going. Not really a group tour but several one day tours. since we had different people with us in different days. The guides were friendly and respectful. The islands are a step back in time. Felt like we were in a Jurassic parks movie with giant turtles iguanas and seals. The boat trips were amazing. A very unique place.

4-day Galapagos Surprising Tour (Private Tour)

What people love about budget tours in galapagos islands.

This was a great experience if you are looking for a little adventure! It is not a luxury, relaxing vacation, but has a good mix of exciting experiences, eating good food, waking up early to travel to new stops, and some time to chill and interact with other travelers.

My tour guide was amazing! He is so passionate about The Galapagos. He took great care of us.

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The Ultimate Galápagos Islands Travel Guide

Discover the islands that inspired Charles Darwin.

The Galápagos Islands, located roughly 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, remained a closely guarded natural secret for millions of years. Over that time, the archipelago evolved into a home for an all-star cast of plants and animals. Sometime in the 1800s, some swashbuckling pirates and intrepid explorers started arriving in the Galápagos Islands. The most famous early visitor was Charles Darwin, a young naturalist who spent 19 days studying the islands' flora and fauna in 1835. In 1859, Darwin published On the Origin of Species , which introduced his theory of evolution — and the Galápagos Islands — to the world.

Since then, word of these islands and their magnificent beauty has steadily grown. In 1959, the Galápagos became Ecuador's first national park, and in 1978, it was named a UNESCO World Heritage site . Today, more than 275,000 people visit the Galápagos every year to see those incredible animals and landscapes for themselves.

As amazing as you think the Galápagos Islands will be, they routinely exceed expectations. It's a place where lizards swim, birds walk, and humans — for once — don't take center stage.

Reasons to Visit

Biodiversity brings over 100,000 visitors each year to these remote islands that were totally unknown to the world until 1535. Without the influence of a human presence, the island's flora and fauna, and the surrounding marine life, thrived for thousands of years by evolving into unique species you won't find anywhere else in the world, such as the charismatic giant tortoises and blue-footed boobies. Beyond seeing the main stars of the island, many visitors also enjoy the beautiful beaches and choose the Galápagos Islands as their honeymoon destination .

This is also one of the world's top scuba diving destinations, so spending time on or in the water is a must, whether that means you're ready to jump in with your snorkel for a sea lion swim or are happy to enjoy the views from the deck of your adventure cruise . Brimming with natural beauty, the Galápagos is for many a once-in-a-lifetime destination where the marvels of the natural world are waiting to astound you.

Best Time to Visit

There's no bad time to visit the Galápagos Islands. No matter what time of year you go, the adventure is sure to be unique and wonderful. June through December are the cooler and drier months. Even though this is the dry season, a garúa (or light, misty rain) is still possible, particularly in December, and skies can be cloudy and gray.

January through May are the warmer and wetter months, but the rain creates brilliantly clear blue skies between showers — great for photography. March and April tend to be the hottest and wettest months, while August tends to be the coolest time.

Water temperatures vary throughout the year because of the powerful ocean currents in the archipelago. Between June and December, the colder currents dominate and the water temperature dips low. A wet suit (likely provided by your boat or hotel) may be required while snorkeling during these months. However, the upside is that the cold current brings in huge quantities of plankton, which attract hungry marine life.

If you're set on seeing a particular species in the Galápagos, talk to the tour operator and pick the month and itinerary that will give you the best chance for a sighting. Some species are seasonal, and many exist only on specific islands. For example, the waved albatross, also called the Galápagos albatross, is not a full-time resident. These birds just show up for mating in the spring and summer.

How to Get There

Getty Images/Mauricio Handler

Flights to the Galápagos Islands depart multiple times each day from Quito or Guayaquil on mainland Ecuador. Flights from the U.S. are plentiful to both cities. Hotel options are better in Quito and, in general, this city is more compelling with a stunning colonial center, which was made a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1978. It's also home to ample museums, shopping, and restaurants to easily fill a few days. However, Quito is over 9,000 feet above sea level, so altitude can be a problem for travelers arriving from lower elevations. Steamy Guayaquil, Ecuador's largest city, is at sea level, so altitude is not an issue. However, the hotel and restaurant selection is much more limited in Guayaquil.

If you're booking your own flights from mainland Ecuador to the Galápagos Islands, remember that there are two airports on two different islands in the archipelago. San Cristóbal Airport is on the island of the same name. Seymour Airport, which runs entirely on sun and wind power, can be found on tiny Baltra Island, which is separated from Santa Cruz Island by a narrow channel. Be sure to book your flights to the same island you'll be based on, or where your boat departs and returns.

By Land or By Sea

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The first decision you have to make when visiting the Galápagos Islands is also the most difficult. Do you want to stay in a hotel on one of the three inhabited islands, exploring other islands and areas via day-trip boat rides? Or do you want to be based on a live-aboard boat, which provides accommodations and transportation from island to island? There are three main factors to consider when choosing between land and sea: cost, time management, and access.

A trip to the Galápagos Islands can be pricey. However, it's easier to craft a less expensive experience if you choose to be land based. These days, there are hotels and restaurants at many price points on San Cristóbal Island, Santa Cruz Island, and, to a much lesser extent, Isabela and Floreana Islands. Live-aboard boats come in a range of price points, too. However, all but the most bare-bones boats still add up to more than a land-based vacation.

If you choose a land-based vacation, expect to spend a lot of time getting from your hotel onto a boat, out to the day's destination, then back to your property. On the other hand, live-aboard boats do most of their navigating during the night when travelers are asleep in cabins on board. This means passengers wake up in a new destination ready for a full day of exploration. Because land-based explorations are limited to the five islands that can be reached in one day, travelers won't be able to visit the more distant islands that boat-based itineraries include.

Unless you're terrified of sailing, suffer from seasickness , or hate the idea of being on a boat for a week, book a cruise. You'll waste less time running back and forth, plus you'll see as many distinct areas of the Galápagos Islands as possible.

Most live-aboard boats offer five- to eight-day itineraries, with set departure dates and routes. Routes are dictated by Galápagos National Park officials to mitigate crowding and environmental stress. Your boat will provide a northern or southern itinerary (sometimes called eastern and western itineraries), alternating weekly. Both include wonderful land excursions, plenty of time in the water, and ample opportunities to see the famous flora and fauna of the Galápagos.

Boats in the Galápagos Islands are limited to a maximum of 100 passengers, but most carry fewer than that. The benefit of traveling on a smaller-capacity vessel is a more intimate onboard experience and faster transfer times between your main vessel and the rubber dinghies. Smaller boats also tend to have more character and history. And if you're traveling with a big group, don't worry, as larger-capacity boats tend to have more onboard services, like guest lectures and medical facilities.

Ecoventura , which has several vessels that allow for up to 20 passengers at a time, is another excellent operator. In addition, two naturalists take guests onshore and explain every animal and plant in great detail.

Scuba divers who want to focus on underwater adventures have a few options in the Galápagos Islands as well. The Galapagos Sky , Galapagos Aggressor III , and Galapagos Master are live-aboard boats that were designed specifically for scuba divers. They ply the waters all the way to the little-visited northernmost islands in the archipelago, where deep, cold, current-filled diving yields time with manta rays, whale sharks, sunfish, and hammerhead sharks. Note that these are for experienced divers only.

Best Hotels and Resorts

A wide range of hotels can be found on Santa Cruz Island and San Cristóbal Island, and several boats operate out of harbors on those islands as well. Be sure to book a hotel that's located near the harbor (not in the highlands), so you can be close to the boat's boarding spot for day trips.

For example, the 19-room Golden Bay Galapagos is situated right on the harbor of San Cristóbal Island. You can watch sea lions cavort on a small beach directly in front of the property, and day-trip boats leave from a dock that's no more than a three-minute stroll away. Book the corner suite, which features a living-room bathtub and glass walls that slide open to eliminate all barriers between you and the nature outside. Meanwhile, the Angermeyer Waterfront Inn is right on Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island. The hotel's newest room has been cleverly fashioned inside a beached wooden boat.

Or, book a hotel that owns and operates its own boats to ensure a seamless standard of service and the most practical and convenient itineraries. For example, the unparalleled Pikaia Lodge , located in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island, has its own boat that is used exclusively for guests on packages that include land and sea adventures.

The Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel , set in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island, also has its own yacht, dubbed the Sea Lion . This vessel can hold up to 20 passengers plus two guides (many other day-trip boats carry 16 passengers and have just one guide). Sea Lion itineraries also encompass all five islands that day-trip boats are allowed to visit.

Last-minute deals are sometimes available for travelers who can afford to spend a few days searching for sales after arriving. However, the Galápagos Islands are a major tourist destination, so it's advisable to book well in advance. Dive boats, in particular, tend to fill up fast because there are so few of them.

If you are spending the night in Quito or Guayaquil, there are a few nice hotels that we also recommend checking out. In Quito, Casa Gangotena , on Plaza San Francisco in the heart of the capital's colonial center, is the best hotel in Ecuador, combining history, style, and service. Another top option is Illa Experience Hotel , a 10-room boutique hotel in the city's central San Marcos neighborhood. The property sits in a renovated mansion, and each floor presents different decor, including colonial, republic, and contemporary styles. In Guayaquil, Hotel del Parque , located in the city's leafy Parque Histórico, is a sophisticated boutique property with 44 rooms. The restored building dates back to 1891, and houses a spa where you can book a massage in a repurposed church bell tower.

Best Restaurants

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As you can imagine, the seafood in the Galápagos Islands is extremely fresh and the islands have many fine dining establishments to cater to hungry visitors. You'll find a range of dining options across all the islands' main hubs, many of which are associated with hotels, such as the Finch Bay Restaurant in Santa Cruz, which blends local Ecuadorian cuisine with international style. Another popular restaurant is the FraFre GastroBar , where the fish is served with a regional flair that's popular among locals and tourists. You'll also find more casual eateries like the humorously named Booby Trap that serves up fish tacos and pizza on Isabela Island alongside wonderful oceanfront views.

If you are looking for a memorable meal in Quito, Zazu is the only Relais & Châteaux restaurant in Ecuador. For a more casual experience, head to sibling restaurant Zfood , where a Hamptons-style fish-shack vibe is replicated perfectly and seafood reigns supreme. At Urko , chef/owner Daniel Maldonado stays focused on showcasing Ecuadorian ingredients and flavors. Go for the tasting menu to get a full sense of what he calls cocina local .

Things to Do

Getty Images/Layne Kennedy

Aside from observing the fabulous animals above and below the water, you can incorporate many other striking landscapes into your adventures. If you want to island-hop, you can coordinate visits to these sites yourself, but if you're on a cruise you may have to follow the pre-planned itinerary.

Throughout the islands you can enjoy the white sands of beaches like Tortuga Bay and Puerto Villamil, or take the adventurous route for a hike to the top of the Sierra Negra Volcano, an active shield volcano that last erupted in 2018, providing a dazzling show for offshore boaters. For something more tame, you can pay your respects at the Charles Darwin Research Station in Puerto Ayora, which has been used as a scientific base since 1964. Visitors can access the exhibition hall, gardens, and public library.

Best Islands to Visit

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There are 127 islands that make up this tropical archipelago, but only about 20 are frequently visited by tourists, and only four have major populations. Isabela Island is the largest of these, but despite its size, it has fewer people than Santa Cruz, which is the most populated island with approximately 12,000 inhabitants between the towns of Puerto Ayora and Santa Rosa. When you fly into the Galápagos, you will most likely arrive through Baltra Island, which is separated from Santa Cruz by a short ferry ride. Meanwhile, the province's capital is located on San Cristobal Island.

Booking a live-aboard boat trip will give you more opportunities to see the many different islands that make up these enchanted isles. However, if a particular attraction or animal captures your attention, you may want to seek out specific sites like Bartolomé Island, known for its volcanic rock formations like Pinnacle Rock, and Española Island, where you'll find the nesting sites of the waved albatross at Punta Suarez. If you're interested in the history of human discovery, Floreana Island was the first to be visited by people. Here, you can hear the stories of the many seamen who rolled into these waters and learn about the fascinating postal system they set up using a simple wooden barrel. Bird-watchers are especially fond of Genovesa Island, where frigatebirds and red-footed boobies are frequently spotted. For Galápagos penguins and flightless cormorants, the sparsely vegetated Fernandina Island is another popular spot.

Packing Tips

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A trip to the Galápagos is a big adventure, so you should come prepared with the right clothes and tools to face the elements. It may be tough to find what you need once you arrive on the islands — especially if you are spending most of your time at sea — so we've broken it down into essential categories and created a packing list to get you started.

Basic supplies are available at small shops on both San Cristóbal and Santa Cruz islands, but prices are high and the selection is limited. It's best to have the essentials with you. These include sturdy closed-toe walking shoes with durable soles. Although land excursions are generally short and trails tame, you may be walking over jagged volcanic rock and other obstacles from time to time. However, you will also want sandals or flip-flops to wear in towns and on boats. Leave the heels at home, especially if you've booked a boat-based itinerary. Even the most luxurious boats have narrow, steep stairways that are nearly impossible to navigate safely (or gracefully) in heels.

You'll also be glad to have rain gear and good weather protection for your camera. You will be traveling on boats and in dinghies, and rain showers can occur at any time. If you're exploring an island when wet weather rolls in, there will be no place to shelter out of the rain.

Health and Comfort

Stock up on lots of insect repellant and water-resistant, high-SPF sunscreen. As you might have guessed Ecuador is on the equator, which magnifies the strength of the rays, and most Galápagos excursions are completely exposed to the sun. We also recommend purchasing reef-safe sunscreen to help protect the coral, animals, and waters around the islands. A hat with a brim for sun protection during land excursions is also recommended. If you're planning to participate in kayaking and snorkeling excursions, a rash guard is also useful for sun protection. When water temperatures are colder, a wet suit will be provided. If you have fins, a mask, and a snorkel that you love, bring them with you. Snorkeling gear is provided, but the quality and cleanliness vary.

Seas are generally calm, and boat captains take great care in choosing protected anchoring spots. However, if you're prone to motion sickness, bring some Dramamine with you. Prescription preventions like scopolamine patches work well, too. Note that scopolamine is generally not available for sale in Latin America. Bring a reusable water bottle , so you can fill it up for day-long excursions and reduce your plastic waste.

There are ATMs on Santa Cruz and San Cristóbal islands, but they can run out of cash, so bring some with you to cover tips. Credit cards are also often accepted at shops and restaurants. The official currency of Ecuador is the U.S. dollar.

What Not to Bring

The introduction of non-native plant species is considered a top environmental threat to the Galápagos Islands, so do not bring any fruits, vegetables, or plants of any kind with you. Anything that might have seeds or spores clinging to it, such as the soles of your shoes and any outdoor gear or camping equipment, should be washed and inspected thoroughly before being brought to the islands. The threat of invasive plant species is so great that visitors arriving in the Galápagos have to sign an affidavit swearing that they're not bringing in any food, animals, seeds, or dirty camping gear.

In 2012, Ecuador's then-president Rafael Correa abolished fees at national parks and reserves in the country. However, Galápagos National Park was not part of that exemption and still requires a $100 entrance fee per person, which is payable only in cash upon arrival at either airport in the Galápagos Islands. In addition, each visitor must buy a $20 transit card, which is also payable only in cash at the airport. The transit card is a measure of immigration control, so all visitors must purchase one at the airport when they arrive and return it when they leave. If you are booked on a tour, your tour operator might take care of this for you, but it's better to ask ahead of time.

Before Visiting the Galápagos Islands

With the anticipation building for your trip, you may be looking for books and movies to get into the spirit of an adventuring naturalist. Here are some of our recommendations of what to read and watch to prepare for your trip.

• My Father's Island by Johanna Angermeyer: Published in 1998, this book provides an account of the author's German ancestors, who were among the first to settle on Santa Cruz Island. Their challenges and triumphs are humbling, offering valuable perspectives on the Galápagos. Members of the Angermeyer family still live on Santa Cruz Island, where they run the Angermeyer Waterfront Inn.
• The Galapagos Affair: Satan Came to Eden: Released in 2013, this documentary cleverly splices video footage, letters, and other archival material to recount a real-life murder mystery involving a self-proclaimed baroness, her lovers, and other settlers on Floreana Island in the 1930s. Cate Blanchett narrates one of the main characters.
• On the Origin of Species by Charles Darwin: This classic and its author will be referenced repeatedly during your time in the Galápagos. Read up on Darwin's seminal theory of evolution, which was inspired, in part, by observations he made in the archipelago.

Galapagos Islands Tours & Vacations

Step into an isolated world. See giant tortoises roaming and unforgettable landscapes unfurl before your very eyes. 

Inquisitive sea lions and spiky marine iguanas breach and bask between island and shore. Friendly hammerhead sharks patrol the depths and blue-footed boobies cut through the sky. Come with us on our Galapagos Islands tours & holidays and observe the local wildlife in the same, untouched way Charles Darwin did hundreds of years ago. Nowadays, these Ecuadorian islands host a steady stream of modern-day explorers from animal-seekers who long for face-to-face encounters to sun-chasers itching to relax on a pristine beach or two. Embark on your own adventure as you wander from isla to isla, soak in crystal-clear waters, traverse volcanic landscapes, and spot animals you've only ever seen pictures of . To be honest, there's simply no place on Earth quite like the Galapagos.  

Our Galapagos Islands trips

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Galapagos Islands highlights

Transport in the galapagos islands.

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.Depending on which trip you're on while in the Galapagos Islands, you may find yourself on:

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Galapagos Islands at a glance

Capital city.

Puerto Baquerizo Moreno

US dollar (USD)

(GMT-06:00) Galapagos

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin), Type B (American 3-pin)

Learn more about Galapagos Islands

Best time to visit.

Simply put, there’s no bad time to visit the Galapagos Islands. Good weather is mostly found year round, as are the animals. This being said, November through to June is the preferred time to visit, with clearer skies, calmer seas and decreased winds. Of these, March and April have less rain, while November and December are the warmest. July to November is the best time for divers as whale sharks can often be spotted at Wolf and Darwin islands.

Learn more about the best time to visit the Galapagos Islands

Culture and customs

Ever since Charles Darwin brought attention to the giant tortoises, sea lions, hammerhead sharks and other spectacular wildlife of the Galapagos Islands, people have been fascinated by this archipelago of volcanic islands. Originally a pirate hideout, people started migrating to the islands from Ecuador after it became part of the country in 1832. Of the 13 major islands and scores of smaller islands and islets that make up the Galapagos, only five of them are inhabited – about 26,000 residents spread over the islands of Isabela, Santa Cruz, Floreana, Baltra and San Cristobal. The wildlife rules the rest of the islands, which are carefully managed to help protect the precious environment.

Geography and environment

Located in the Pacific Ocean about 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands are a volcanic archipelago of 13 major islands, six smaller islands and more than 100 islets. Some are sparsely vegetated with largely mountainous interiors, whereas others are comparatively lush with white-sand beaches. Many of the islands are in a state of flux, as continual volcanic eruptions cause them to erode and expand.

The largest island, Isabela, makes up half the land area of the Galapagos and is characterized by three active volcanos, a blue lagoon, clear lakes filled with flamingos and beaches where iguanas and sea lions roam. Santa Cruz is the second largest island with giant tortoises, marine iguanas and Galapagos crabs residing in Tortuga Bay. The oldest and most remote island, Espanola (also called Hood), boasts boobies, albatrosses and many species of birds and lizards not found anywhere else in the world. 

Top wildlife to spot

1. Sea Lions

Whether you're loafing about on the beach or snorkeling offshore, you’ll be hard-pressed not to come face-to-face with these frolicsome critters at some stage. Playful, plentiful, and pretty much fearless, you’re supposed to keep a 2-meter distance from these guys at all times - though their insatiable curiosity can make this hard.

2. Marine Iguanas

The only lizards in the world that can live and forage in the ocean, the marine iguana is found solely in the Galapagos. Fierce and ferocious though these Godzilla-like reptiles may appear (Darwin called them ‘Imps of Darkness’), it’s all bluff – they only feed on algae. And with lung capacities permitting up to half an hour of underwater foraging, you’re just as likely find them gorging on the islands’ surrounding seabeds as scampering about the craggy rocks they inhabit.

3. Hammerhead Sharks

Boasting one of the animal kingdom’s most puzzling physiologies, hammerhead sharks are found in abundance off Wolf, Bartolome, Santa Cruz and Darwin islands. Unlike most sharks, they will often merge into schools of over 100 during the day - making for some incredible and surreal photo opportunities. And with no known human fatalities and a wealth of choice natural prey on offer, diving amongst them isn’t as scary or dangerous as one might think.

Darwin finches gave rise to one of the most game-changing theories of all time. By studying the differences between finches from different islands, Darwin hypothesized that the birds’ adaptations to their habitats resulted in their mutation into different species: his Theory of Evolution.

5. Giant Tortoises

No trip to the islands is complete without a visit to its most famous residents. Weighing up to 882 pounds, regularly living for more than 100 years, and able to go for up to 1 year without food, these gentle and slow-moving monsters are an intriguing and humbling spectacle to observe.

6. Sea Turtles

Snorkeling alongside these majestic creatures of the deep (or more accurately, the shallows) is one of those rare, life-affirming moments that makes a trip to the Galapagos immediately worthwhile. Keep your eyes peeled on the beaches for turtle nests too - the Galapagos is a hotbed of activity for these critters. 

7. Blue-Footed Boobies

Despite essentially looking like handsome seagulls with painted toenails, blue-footed boobies, when caught hunting, serve up one of the Galapagos' most thrilling spectacles. Diving from heights of up to 100ft, groups of boobies hit the water at speeds up around 60km per hour. They usually let out a shrill whistle before letting rip, which means you'll usually have warning enough to get your camera out too. How considerate.

8. Flightless Cormorants

Granted, a flightless cormorant spotted on land isn't one of the most invigorating sights you'll see during your time here. But wait until you don your snorkel gear and spot one weaving elegantly through the water - the flightless cormorant will likely become one of your favorite discoveries in the Galapagos Islands for this reason alone.

9. Frigatebird

With its striking wingspan and deeply-forked tail, the magnificent frigate bird is easily one of the most impressive birds in the skies of the Galapagos archipelago. But they don't have such a swell reputation amongst other birds. Whilst they hunt fish on the oceans surface, they also force their winged brethren to regurgitate their food, which then they eat - a process known as kleptoparasitism. Still, they look gorgeous – particularly the males, with their bright-red chin sac.

Healthy and safety

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travelers seriously, and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travelers check with their government or national travel advisory organization for the latest information before departure:

From Australia?

Go to:  http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/

From New Zealand?

Go to:  http://www.safetravel.govt.nz/

From Canada?

Go to:  https://travel.gc.ca/

Go to:  http://travel.state.gov/

Go to:  http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/

The World Health Organisation

also provides useful health information:  Go to:  http://www.who.int/en/

Further reading

Similar destinations.

Thinking about a trip to the Galapagos Islands but still browsing other destinations? Check out our tours to neighboring countries:

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Comparison 

Galapagos or Madagascar? 

Galapagos Islands travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa to travel to Galapagos Islands?

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information.

Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your nationality.

Check the Essential Trip Information section of the itinerary for more information.

Is tipping customary in the Galapagos Islands?

While tipping isn’t mandatory, tips are very much appreciated by service workers and guides.

Leaving a 10% tip is customary in restaurants.

Some automatically add a 10% service charge to your bill, in which case an extra tip isn’t required.

What is the weather like in the Galapagos Islands?

The Galapagos Islands enjoy almost perfect weather all year with two distinct seasons offering warmer, rainier months and cooler, drier months.

Temperatures rarely dip below 70°F or reach higher than 90°F. You can travel to the islands anytime throughout the year and experience fantastic weather.

Light rainfall is expected from January to May (along with high humidity levels), but it never lasts for long and doesn't often turn into heavier downpours.

What is the internet access like in the Galapagos Islands?

There are reliable internet cafes in Puerto Ayora (Santa Cruz Island) and Puerto Baquerizo (San Cristobal Island).

Some hotels and restaurants on other islands will have a Wi-Fi connection, but it is best not to rely on it.

Can I use my cell phone in the Galapagos Islands?

There's good cell phone reception on the larger islands, but don’t expect it when at sea. The best local telephone companies are Porta and Movistar.

Ensure you have global roaming activated before leaving home if you wish to use your cell phone.

What are the toilets like in the Galapagos Islands?

Most towns have Western-style flushable toilets, though you will likely encounter squat toilets as well. Regardless, it’s a good idea to carry your own toilet paper and hand sanitiser, as they are not always provided.

What will it cost for a...?

• Juice = USD 1
• Street food snack = USD 1.50
• Simple lunch at a local restaurant = USD 3-5 
• Sit-down dinner at a cafe or restaurant = USD 10–20

Can I drink the water in the Galapagos Islands?

Tap water isn’t considered safe to drink in the Galapagos Islands.

Avoid drinks with ice and make sure to peel fruit before eating it.

Help the environment and try to avoid buying bottled water. Instead, fill a reusable water bottle with filtered water. Your leader or hotel can tell you where to find filtered water.

Are credit cards accepted widely in the Galapagos Islands?

No, credit cards are not widely accepted.

There are a handful of shops on Santa Cruz that may accept major credit cards, but it’s preferable to pay in cash.

How many islands make up the Galapagos Islands?

The Galapagos Islands are made up of 13 larger islands and more than 60 smaller islands and islets. 5 islands are habitable to just over 30,000 people.

These 5 islands are Isla Baltra, Isla Floreana, Isla Isabela, Isla Santa Cruz, and Isla San Cristobal.

What is ATM access like in Galapagos Island?

The banks in Puerto Ayora and Puerto Baquerizo have ATMs.

The Banco del Pacifico in both towns is open from 8 am to 3:30 pm Monday to Friday and 9 am to 12.30 pm on Saturdays.

It's best to withdraw your money on the mainland in case these are out of order.

Check each bank's website for up-to-date opening hours.

What public holidays are celebrated in the Galapagos Islands?

• 1 Jan: New Year's Day
• 6 Jan: Epiphany
• 1 May: Labour Day
• 24 May: Battle of Pichincha
• 10 Aug: Independence Day
• 9 Oct: Guayaquil Independence Day
• 2 Nov: All Soul's Day
• 3 Nov: Cuenca Independence Day
• 25 Dec: Christmas
• 31 Dec: New Year's Eve

Please note, Galapagos Islands public holidays may vary.

Are the Galapagos Islands a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

The Galapagos Islands are a relatively hassle-free destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers.

Same-sex marriage was legalised in Ecuador in 2008. The country hosts several fiestas where it’s acceptable for men to cross-dress as women.

However, homophobic attitudes do exist among the older generations. It is best to avoid public displays of affection where possible.

For more detailed advice, we recommend visiting   Equaldex   or   ILGA   before you travel.

What to drink in the Galapagos Islands

Quench your thirst after a glorious day spent exploring the Galapagos  by sipping on a glass of canelazo, horchata tea, or freshly made fruit juice.

During your cruise around the islands, it makes sense to try as many traditional Ecuadorian drinks as you can, especially since there are heaps to choose from.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travelers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

• Travel Planning Guide

How much does a trip to Galapagos Islands Cost?

How much money should you budget for your trip to Galapagos Islands?

How much does a weekend trip to galapagos islands cost.

• How much does a five-day trip to Galapagos Islands cost?
• How much does a one-week trip to Galapagos Islands cost?
• Hostel Prices
• Hotel Prices

The Cost of a Trip to Galapagos Islands

Typically, the daily expenses for a trip to Galapagos Islands for one person fall between $57 and $328, while for two people, it can range from $113 to $657. These price ranges are based on the average daily cost of $138 which is calculated from the expenses of previous travelers. These numbers include expenses for food, accommodation, sightseeing, and local transportation. Keep in mind that prices can vary depending on your overall travel style, level of luxury, and the activities you choose. If you book standard hotels, eat at typical restaurants, and take in the main attractions, your budget should stay close to this average cost. Below, we provide a breakdown of travel expenses by category, as well as a general price range for accommodation and activities for your visit. Please bear in mind that individual attractions and hotels may vary in price, although they generally adhere to the price ranges discussed in this article.

For budget travelers in Galapagos Islands, planning for around $57 per day should cover essentials such as accommodations in hostels and budget hotels, affordable meal options, local transportation, and engaging in various activities. If you're a mid-range traveler, setting aside around $138 per day would allow for more comfortable stays in typical hotels, dining at regular restaurants, and exploring a diverse range of popular attractions. Luxury travelers, on the other hand, should consider a daily budget of approximately $328 to accommodate higher-end hotel stays, dining at nicer restaurants, and indulging in more exclusive private tour options. It's important to note that these price ranges are derived from our extensive travel cost data for Galapagos Islands, which is based on valuable insights from other travelers as well as hotel and tour data provided by travel companies. For a more detailed breakdown of travel costs, you can refer to our comprehensive travel cost data for Galapagos Islands .

On average, travelers spend around $415 per person during a three-day trip to Galapagos Islands. This average includes expenses for sightseeing, hotels, food, and local transportation. To align with this average price range, consider opting for mid-range hotels and dining at mid-level restaurants, while also allocating funds for entry tickets to popular attractions. For those seeking a more budget-friendly approach, it is possible to find lower-cost accommodations, dine at less expensive restaurants, and explore free activities. Also, many visitors choose to spend a higher travel budget, as Galapagos Islands offers a range of high-end hotels and restaurants for those seeking a more luxurious experience.

How much does a five day trip to Galapagos Islands cost?

With five days in Galapagos Islands, you can expect to spend about $691 total, not including transportation to and from the city. It's possible to stay close to this daily average by booking mid-range hotels, eating at normal restaurants, and paying for some entry tickets to popular attractions. It's possible to find lower-cost accommodations, eat at less expenive restaurants, and find more free activities if you want to spent less money.

How much does a one week trip to Galapagos Islands cost?

Most visitors spend between $397 and $2,298 for a one week trip to Galapagos Islands, with the average being $967 . This includes sightseeing, local transportation, food, and hotels. One week is enough time to have a more in-depth experience in Galapagos Islands. Also, one week allows you to be more flexible with your time and money, so you can potentially save money on some aspects of your trip while spending more on others.

Hotel Prices in Galapagos Islands

Based on our calculations from available hotels in the Galapagos Islands, the average price for a hotel room is $0 per night. To save money, or if you're planning a more luxurious trip, it's important to look at hotel prices based on the overall star-rating as well as guest reviews. Also, prices can vary by amenities and location. Check out more details from our analysis of hotel prices in Galapagos Islands here , and below is a breakdown of hotel prices by star-rating.

Should you do a tour in Galapagos Islands?

Many visitors enjoy the convenience of booking tours and activities while they visit, and Galapagos Islands has a wide array of things to do. These activities often include knowledgable guides and unique experiences. Tours range in price from [ACTIVITY_CHEAP_PRICE] for the [ACTIVITY_CHEAP] to [ACTIVITY_EXPENSIVE_PRICE] for the [ACTIVITY_EXPENSIVE] .

• Day Tour to Floreana Island with Snorkeling and Fishing Viator $ 249
• Day Tour to Floreana Island with Snorkeling and Fishing: $249
• Private Tour Sighting Giant Tortoises and Lava Tunnels: $36
• Private BiciTour Giant Tortoises and Lava Tunnel in Galapagos: $90
• Full day Snorkeling Tour Santa Fe Island and Playa Escondida: $185
• Isabela Island Tour in Galapagos with Kayak and Snorkeling: $64
• Daily diving tour in Gordon Rocks: $280
• Half Day Tour in Sierra Negra Volcano & Lava Fields: $90
• Lonesome George Adventure: $120

More for Galapagos Islands

If you're planning a trip to Galapagos Islands, Ecuador, check out these other informative travel guides.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis. 2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis. For example, the Food 2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment 1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.

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• Activities, Day Trips, Things To Do, and Excursions

The ultimate 5-day guide for the Galápagos Islands

• May 1, 2018

The Galápagos Islands are home to a unique ecosystem that hasn’t changed for thousands of years. Known as the birthplace of evolution for many thanks to its symbolic Darwin finches, swimming iguanas, flightless cormorants and many many more species.  

How do I get to the Galápagos Islands?

The Galápagos Islands are about 2000 miles from mainland Ecuador, so you have to either fly or go by boat. We would recommend flying if you don’t feel like spending 4 weeks on a ship. Operators that fly from Quito and Guayaquil are Tame Airlines, Avianca or Lan. Once you arrive in Galápagos, you will have to pay a $100 entry fee which goes towards the maintenance of the park and its park keepers. Make sure to have this in cash, as you pay in the airport.

Most flights land on the Baltra airport, although there is also a small airport on San Cristóbal, but these flights are sometimes more expensive. Baltra is a short distance away from Santa Cruz, where you can stay in Puerto Ayora. A shuttle bus takes you from the airport to the ferry, from where you can cross to Santa Cruz.

There are three main areas you can stay in: Puerto Ayora, Isla Isabela, and Puerto Baquerizo Moreno (on San Cristóbal island). We recommend staying in more than one, to take advantage of the attractions closest to each one.

Perfect itinerary for the Gálapagos Islands

After landing in Baltra take the free shuttle to the ferry, then hop on a boat to Santa Cruz. This is a perfect starting point for you visit to the Galápagos Islands. When you arrive, you could either head to your hotel to drop off your things, or take advantage of your location and take a taxi straight to Los Gemelos – a group of massive volcanic sinkholes half way between the ferry crossing and Puerto Ayora. Expect to pay between US$10-15, which includes the driver waiting for you while you explore the craters.

Once you get to Puerto Ayora, go to book your trips for the next day or two, as most of these need to be arranged in advance. Within Puerto Ayora you are a short walk away from Tortuga Bay and the famous Charles Darwin Station , two must-see spots in the Galápagos Islands.

Day-trip snorkeling in Santa Fe. A small island to the south east of Santa Cruz, Santa Fe provides the opportunity to see some amazing sea creatures, such as sea lions, stingrays, sharks and turtles. You can also see iguanas and blue-footed boobies on land here. If you book from a tour agency in Santa Cruz it will usually cost between $80-$100 and includes wetsuits, snorkeling gear and lunch. The wetsuit part is really important, as the water can be really chilly, but totally worth the shivers!

Option 1: If you are a diver, then North Seymour Island is definitely worth a visit. This dive site is famous for Hammerheads, reef sharks and the Gálapagos shark. A 2-dive tour usually costs between $120-$140 and a 3-dive tour around $170. As diving expeditions are pricier than most, we’ve included another option for the day if you’re on a tight budget or don’t fancy diving.

Option 2: Get a boat to Puerto Baquerizo on San Cristóbal Island, this will take about two and a half hours. The public ferry sets off at about 7 from Puerto Ayora and arrives at about 9:30 in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, giving you all day to explore the island! We recommend booking your trip for the following day and having a relaxing lunch.

• If you went to North Seymour yesterday, get the boat to Isla Isabela at 7:00am. Once in Isla Isabela you can book a half-day hike to Sierra Negra, which usually costs around $30 per person. The Sierra Negra is an amazing volcanic landscape in the center of Isla Isabela Island. Stay overnight in Isla Isabela, enjoying the attractions and walks surrounding Puerto Villamil. For a nice walk, ask for the Manglares or mangrove trees.
•  If you are in Puerto Baquerizo, head out on a day-trip to Kicker Rock, one of the most biodiverse places in the Galápagos Islands (make sure you book the night before). You will usually depart at about 7:30 am, as the trip to the island takes about 1h30. Most tours include snorkelling at Kicker Rock, where you can see baby sharks, hammerheads, Galápagos shark and blacktip shark. Then a packed lunch and a visit to a deserted beach on the North side of the island before returning to Puerto Baquerizo.  

Get the ferry back to Santa Cruz (the first is at 7:00 am), pick up some souvenirs in Puerto Ayora, and get a taxi to the airport. We hope you enjoy the Galápagos Islands!

What’s next?

Keep exploring Ecuador, one of the most diverse and beautiful countries in the world. Here are our suggestions: relax and party in Montañita ; visit one of the most impressive volcanoes in the world; or do some extreme activities in Baños , Tungurahua.

Ecuador 10-day itinerary

Though ten days in a country offers a better feel of what that country has to offer, Ecuador doubles-down on offering the experience of nature at its most extreme and most diverse… If 5 days takes us up and down the Ecuadorian rollercoaster, 10 days is double the fun. So, sit back and enjoy the

Ecuador 5-day itinerary

Five days in Ecuador is clearly not enough to get to know the country well, but there’s one thing that five days in Ecuador can do. And that is give you a peek at its amazing diversity and distinct “worlds”. Just for that experience alone, 5 days in Ecuador is an exciting adventure that few

Ecuador Tours with local private tour guides

Tourism and travel have evolved throughout the years and we could say that, in this day and age, people are more and more inclined to seek travel experiences in which they control every last part of their journeys. Far have we travelled from the antiquated vision of the 1970s tourist, walking around with a camera

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• July 28, 2020
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Galápagos DIY Itinerary: Land-Based 5, 7 & 10 Day Trips!

Three galapagos islands do-it-yourself itineraries.

Even skipping a cruise, we know that visiting the Galapagos islands can still be an expensive endeavour, especially for backpackers.

That’s why we’ve got you covered. Start with our ‘6 tips for visiting on a budget’ , followed by ‘how to visit without booking a tour’ . Then it’s down to you to pick the itinerary you think is best.

We’ve outlined three itineraries so that there’s something for everyone.

• Itinerary 1 ‘The In and Out’ – 5 days, San Cristobal & Santa Cruz
• Itinerary 2 ‘The Island Checklist’ – 7 days, San Cristobal, Santa Cruz & Isabela
• Itinerary 3 ‘The Bonanza’ – 10 days, San Cristobal, Santa Cruz & Isabela

To make the most from each island and to account for the time lost travelling between them, we recommend two nights stay as a minimum.

'THE IN AND OUT' - 5 DAYS/4 NIGHTS GALAPAGOS ISLANDS ITINERARY

• Islands: San Cristobal and Santa Cruz
• Budget: c.$695 = $470 flights, ferry and entrance fees + average cost per day for food and accommodation ($40 x 5). Prices taken from our budget breakdown. 

Itinerary Breakdown

• Day 1 – Fly to San Cristobal, visit the Interpretation Centre, walk to Mirador Cerro Tijeratas and watch the sunset at Playa Punta Carola
• Day 2 – Visit the Giant Tortoise Sanctuary, El Junco Lagoon & Puerto Chino Beach
• Day 3 – Ferry to San Cristobal, visit the Darwin Centre and Playa De La Estacion
• Day 4 – Visit Las Greitas and Tortuga Bay
• Option 1: Ferry back to San Cristobal, fly to mainland
• Option 2: Relax on Santa Cruz and fly back from Isla Baltra airport (north of Santa Cruz)

Who is this itinerary for?

The backpacker dying to visit the Galapagos islands but knows it’s going to take a chunk out of their monthly budget.

We’ve planned this 5-day itinerary so you can see and do as much as possible without spending hardly a penny whilst you are there.

Every item on the list is free apart from day 2, which you will need to pay a taxi driver for. However, this can be swapped for a beach day or further exploring at Loberia Beach but it would be a shame to miss the giant tortoises!

Therefore, all you need to do is pay for flights, accommodation, and food.

Day 1 - Interpretation Centre, Mirador Cerro Tijeretas and Playa Punta Carola

Flying into San Cristobal is the preferred option as it’s only a minute journey via taxi from the airport to town.

Read our full guide on planning flights to the islands before you book anything as flying from Guayaquil is the cheaper and more efficient option than Quito if you’re heading that way anyway.

Once you’re off the plane, checked in and your backs dropped off, it’s time to go exploring. A short walk from Puerto Baquerizo will take you to the Interpretation Centre – a small museum dedicated to the history of the islands.

As you leave the centre, a path will take you along the coast to Cerro Tijeratas viewpoint and then eventually to Playa Punta Carola , sit here with the sea lions and watch the sun go down to complete your first magical day on the islands.

Day 2 - Tortoise Sanctuary, Highland Lagoon and Puerto Chino Beach

Book a ‘tour’ (which is just a glorified taxi driver) to take you to the north side of the island to visit the Giant Tortoise habitat. The tour costs $60 total so best if you can split it with others.

The ‘tour’ will take you to El Junco, a highland lagoon to see frigate birds,  as well as Puerto Chino beach , another secluded spot where you can sight blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas and sea lions .

If you still have time after then, you can visit La Loberia beach to see iguanas and more sea lions.

Day 3 - Travel to Santa Cruz Island / Darwin Research Centre

Take the early ferry to Santa Cruz Island so that you have the whole day to explore. Once you’ve settled in your accommodation, it’s a 20-minute walk from Puerto Ayora to get to the Darwin Research Centre .

The centre is a fantastic educational space dedicated to the conservation of the rare animals that live on the Galapagos islands. Here you can also see another giant tortoise breeding facility.

A path from the research centre will take you to Playa De La Estacion , where you can go snorkelling and find land iguanas.

The centre is open 7:30-12:30 and reopens 14:00-17:30 ; you’ll want to spend 1.5-2 hours here as there are lots to see.

The Galapagos Islands are one of our 12 reasons for visiting and backpacking Ecuador in 2022. For more great reasons, check out the post below:

• 12 Great Reasons Why You Should Visit Ecuador In 2022

Day 4 - Las Greitas and Tortuga Bay

Two more free activities today. In the morning, rent some snorkel gear and take a water taxi to the entrance to Las Greitas , a high walled crevasse of volcanic rock filled with seawater which you can swim in.

In the afternoon, a 45 minute walk will take you through cacti fields to Tortuga bay . Here you can spend the day relaxing on the beach, go searching for turtles and baby sharks in the mangroves or rent a kayak to explore further.

Day 5 - Return to the mainland

If you have return flights from San Cristobal, then it’s time to head back there. Or the smart thing to do would be to book separate inbound and outbound flights and fly from Santa Cruz (Isla Baltra).

On our last day, we sat outside at Fresco Café on San Cristobal for breakfast and a coffee while waiting for our flight.

For more free activities on each of the islands, check out our post:

• The Best Free Activities On The Galapagos Islands

'THE ISLAND CHECKLIST' - 7 DAYS/6 NIGHTS GALAPAGOS ISLANDS ITINERARY

Islands: San Cristobal, Santa Cruz and Isabela

• Budget: c.$905 = $500 flights, ferries and entrance fees + average cost per day for food and accommodation ($45 x 7) + 1 extra tour (c.$90)

 Itinerary Breakdown

• Day 1 – Fly to San Cristobal, visit the interpretation centre walk to Mirador Cerro Tijeratas and watch the sunset at Playa Punta Carola
• Day 2 – Visit the Giant Tortoise Sanctuary, Highland Lagoons & Puerto Chino
• Day 3 – Ferry to San Cristobal, visit the Darwin Centre and Playa Mann
• Day 5 – Ferry to Isabela, Tortoise Breeding Centre, Flamingo Lake and Snorkelling at Concha de Perla
• Day 6 – Las Tintoteras Tour or Lava Tunnels Tour
• Day 7 – Ferry to Santa Cruz – fly back to the mainland

The person who wants to visit the three main inhabited islands on the Galapagos archipelago, get a fuller experience and who has a little spare time and money.

Day 1-4 - San Cristobal & Santa Cruz

The itinerary is the same as our five day one , so it’s still a great way to cut down on costs, only with two additional days to visit Isabela island.

The extra days will increase your budget, but once you reach Isabela, it’s worth paying for either of the tours mentioned below as they are fantastic experiences.

For more great tips for visiting the Galapagos Islands on a budget, check out the post below:

• 13 Great Tips For Visiting The Galapagos Islands On a Budget

Day 5 - Travel to Isabela, Flamingo Lake and Concha de Perla

Firstly, take another early morning ferry to Isabela so that you have the entire day to explore.

Once you’ve arrived and settled, if you didn’t get a chance to see the tortoise sanctuary on San Cristobal, then you have another opportunity to catch these magnificent creatures here.

Your second stop is Flamingo Lake to see the largest concentration of flamingos on the islands.

After that, you are snorkelling at Concha de Perla – a very calm bay, with crystal clear waters. This is one of the most popular spots for snorkelling as you have excellent visibility. If you’re lucky, you may get to s norkel with turtles, watch penguins diving for food as well as swimming with all varieties and colours of tropical fish.

Day 6 - Lava Tunnels Tour or Las Tintoterras Tour

Time for a paid tour . Isabela has some of the most exciting day tours due to all the volcanos on the islands.

You can either visit the Lava Tunnels or Las Tintoterras .

The Lava Tunnels/Los Tuneles tour will take you snorkelling through lava tunnels . The tunnels were created by the cooling of lava when it reached the ocean, creating water canals now filled with lots of marine life. This is a paid excursion as the tunnels are 1½ -2 hours by boat and the day trip lasts 5 hours in total.

We’ve seen the tour offered for $90 and Pahoehoe are a recommended company. Try and haggle on the price to include rental of the wet suits and snorkelling equipment unless you have your own.

Second tour option – Las Tintoreras is a series of islets situated close to Isabela Island. As part of the national park, you will need a guide, but the tour offers a chance to see Galapagos penguins, blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, sea lions, blue herons and crabs.

You can also snorkel to see white tip sharks and sea turtles. We’ve seen tours for $60-$65 with Pahoehoe which you can do with kayaks. The trip lasts 2-3 hours.

To  see how this itinerary combines with a trip to Machu Picchu, check out the post below:

• Galapagos Islands And Machu Picchu Two Week Itinerary

'THE BONANZA' - 10 DAYS/9 NIGHTS GALAPAGOS ISLANDS ITINERARY

Budget: c.$1,265 = $500 flights, ferries and entrance fees + average cost per day for food and accommodation ($45 x 9)  + extra tours (c.$360)

• Day 1 – Fly to San Cristobal, visit the interpretation centre, walk to Mirador Cerro Tijeratas and watch the sunset at Playa Punta Carola
• Day 3 – Snorkelling or Diving at Kicker Rock
• Day 4 – Ferry to San Cristobal, visit the Darwin Centre and Playa Mann
• Day 5 – Visit Las Greitas and Tortuga Bay
• Day 6 – Day Tour to Pinzon Island
• Day 7 – Ferry to Isabela, Tortoise Breeding Centre, Flamingo Lake and Snorkelling at Concha de Perla
• Day 8 – Las Tintoteras Tour / Lava Tunnels Tour
• Day 9 – Sierra Negra Volcano
• Day 10 – Ferry to Santa Cruz – fly back to the mainland

This itinerary is for the flashpacker who has little worry about time or money, or someone planning a two-week holiday in Ecuador. The additional days mean you will run out of free activities unless you are happy relaxing on the beaches with the sea lions.

Days 1-2, 4-5 and 7-9 are the same as our ‘Island Checklist’ itinerary with an extra day on each island added on. We have laid out what to do on the additional days below.

Day 3 - Kicker Rock

San Cristóbal’s famous rock can be seen jutting out of the ocean from most viewpoints on the island.

The ocean currents that swell around the rock attract large marine life, including sharks and sea lions. We went diving here and loved it.

If you have your qualifications and fancy diving, then read our beginners guide here . If you aren’t a diver, then it’s still a great place to snorkel , and you will be able to see a lot of marine life.

Day 6 - Pinzon Island

There’s a lot of options for day tours from Santa Cruz Island . We went to Pinzon island to snorkel with sea turtles and baby sharks .

However, you can also visit North Seymour island or others if you prefer hiking and landscapes to snorkel.

We paid $100 for the tour down from $150 advertised online. Top tips – go in low season and book in-house last minute (the day before) to get the lowest prices.

Day 9 - Sierra Negra Volcano

Isabela has several active volcanoes on the island.

This volcano last erupted in 2008 and has the second largest caldera in the world measuring 7km by 9km!

The volcano is a 45-minute drive from the port and then some hours walking. Pahoehoe offers tours for $60 . This may be a trip you could do without a tour guide, but we’re not sure how much the taxi transport to the volcano would cost so it may not be worth it! The tour takes 5 hours.

For more South America backpacking routes and itineraries, follow the links below:

• South America 3-Month Backpacking Itinerary
• 4 Efficient Two-Week South America Itineraries For Every Backpacker
• Author Profile
• Posts by the Author
• How Many Days In Bariloche? [3, 5 & 7-Day Itineraries]
• 22 Free Activities On The Galápagos Islands [+4 Affordable Tours]
• Galapagos Islands On A Budget – 15 Shoestring Tips To Save!
• The Ideal Argentina Itinerary [Two Unique One-Month Routes]
• How To Get To The Galapagos Islands [From Anywhere]
• 16 Reasons Why The Galápagos Islands Are Worth Visiting

Joe Bayfield

Hi I'm Joe Bayfield, Bayf for short. I love South America and want people to visit this incredible continent. I’ve travelled through Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Argentina and also lived in Lima, Medellin and Buenos Aires. I write detailed South America itineraries to help you plan your next adventure!

Travel South America Like A pro

Do You Want To See South America On A Budget?

See Machu Picchu, the Amazon and the Bolivian Salt Flats, all with this efficient money-saving itinerary

Home > Galapagos > THE BEST GALAPAGOS ITINERARY – FROM 4 TO 10 DAYS

The Best Galapagos Itinerary: 4, 5, 7, and 10 Days.

• Last Updated: April 10, 2024

If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, a trip to the Galapagos Islands should be at the top of your list. As someone who has explored this incredible archipelago extensively, I’ve created the best land-based multi-day Galapagos Itinerary for travelers who want to experience the best that this paradise has to offer. From hiking through volcanic landscapes to swimming with sea lions, my itineraries offer a range of experiences that will leave you with unforgettable memories of this magical place.

Table of Contents

Introduction to the Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands are an absolute paradise off the coast of Ecuador, offering some of the world’s most unique wildlife and jaw-dropping natural scenery. These islands are not only a visual feast but also hold a remarkable scientific significance. They were famously visited by Charles Darwin in 1835, who drew inspiration from the variety of species and their unique features, leading to the development of the theory of evolution.

The Galapagos Islands are home to an impressive collection of animals, including giant tortoises, penguins, marine iguanas, and an array of bird species like blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds. The best part about a visit to the Galapagos is the chance to witness these creatures in their natural habitats, providing an unforgettable and personal experience that is unparalleled in other destinations.

For thrill-seekers, the Galapagos Islands offer a plethora of opportunities to explore the volcanic terrain, hike to incredible viewpoints, and dive into crystal-clear waters filled with marine life. In addition, the islands are a hub for eco-tourism, offering a chance to learn about conservation efforts and sustainable practices.

All in all, the Galapagos Islands are an enchanting and captivating destination that offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and education and are considered by UNESCO a World Heritage Site. With endless sights to see and experiences to have, it’s no surprise that a visit to the Galapagos is on the bucket list of so many travelers worldwide. With that in mind I’ve come together with the best land-based Galapagos itinerary to make your dream adventure a reality.  

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Factors to Consider when Choosing a Galapagos Islands Itinerary

Choosing the perfect Galapagos itinerary is essential to have an unforgettable trip. There are a few factors to consider when making your choice, such as:

• The time you have available for your adventure,
• What islands you want to explore,
• The wildlife you want to see,
• Which  activities you’d like to participate in,
• Whether you prefer a more laid-back or action-packed experience .

By considering your interests and preferences, you can select an Galapagos itinerary that suits you best and ensures an amazing adventure in this unique destination.

What to Expect on a 4-day Galapagos Itinerary

Are you looking for a quick yet unforgettable adventure in the Galapagos Islands? Then a 4-day Galapagos itinerary is an excellent option for you! This itinerary allows you to explore some of the archipelago’s most incredible wildlife and natural scenery, all in a shorter period of time. In this guide, I’ll provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your 4-day trip, including highlights and activities you won’t want to miss.

To make the most of your time, I suggest that you choose one of the three main islands (Santa Cruz, San Cristobal, or Isabela) as your home base. Trust me, each island has its own unique charm, wildlife, and natural wonders that you won’t want to miss. Trying to visit multiple main islands in just 4 days may leave you feeling rushed and stressed, and you might not get to see everything you want. By staying in one place, you can explore at a relaxed pace and soak up all the amazing experiences that the Galapagos has to offer.

Remember that the main airports of the archipelago are in Santa Cruz Island (Baltra) and in San Cristobal Island, so for the Galapagos itinerary where you visit Isabela Island you should book your return flight at the latest possible time.

• Arrive at San Cristobal’s Airport on the 10 am flight.
• Take a taxi to your hotel and unpack.
• Go for a walk on Puerto Baquerizo Moreno’s Malecón, where you can watch sea lions relaxing on the beach.
• Visit San Cristobal’s Interpretation Center for an introduction to the island’s culture and history.
• Hike to Cerro Tijeretas Hill to see the view of the turquoise water underneath.
• Go for a hike to Playa Baquerizo Beach or swim with baby sea lions at Muelle Tijeretas dock.
• Enjoy lunch at any of the Malecóns restaurants.
• Book a 360 Tour at Galapagos Eco-Fishing for the next day.
• Do the Highlands Tour with a taxi of your choice to see El Junco Crater, the giant Tortoises Center, and Puerto Chino Beach.
• Return before sunset to the town where you will go for a shower at the hotel and have dinner in the Malecón.
• Start the day early by heading to the Galapagos Eco-Fishing store for your tour.
• Opt for the tour that starts first at Leon Dormido/Kicker Rock to have more chances of spotting Hammerhead sharks while snorkeling.
• On the tour visit beautiful beaches like the Bahia Rosa Blanca Beach and snorkel in a huge lagoon inside the island with rays and huge turtles.
• With luck, you will fish some fresh tuna and eat sashimi on the boat.
• Return to town, have dinner and sleep, or spend some time walking around the peaceful town.
• If you’re into diving, go for the Kicker Rock Dive , one of the most famous in the Galapagos.
• Alternatively, go to  Española Island , one of the most beautiful and unique islands of the archipelago, with endemic species like the pink and green iguana and the waved albatross.
• If you’re on a budget, visit La Loberia Beach by taxi, foot, or bicycle, and swim with sea lions or surf.
• In the evening, go to Playa Mann Beach or Punta Carola Beach for more surfing/relaxing next to downtown.
• The flight leaves at around 13h, so it’s best to go for a quick souvenir shopping or head to a nearby beach in town.
• Allow plenty of time to get through the airport controls and procedures before your departure. 

DIVING IN CARAWA WRECK & TIJERETAS BAY

ESPANOLA ISLAND TOUR

15 BEST HOTELS IN SAN CRISTOBAL, GALAPAGOS

12 FREE THINGS TO DO IN SAN CRISTOBAL, GALAPAGOS

7 AWESOME TOURS IN SAN CRISTOBAL, GALAPAGOS

11 BEST SNORKELING SPOTS IN SAN CRISTOBAL

7 BEST DIVE SITES IN SAN CRISTOBAL, GALAPAGOS

24 AMAZING THINGS TO DO IN SAN CRISTOBAL, GALAPAGOS

DIVING IN KICKER ROCK

5 BEST BEACHES IN SAN CRISTOBAL, GALAPAGOS

PLAYA MANN BEACH IN SAN CRISTOBAL

PUNTA CAROLA BEACH IN SAN CRISTOBAL

LA LOBERIA BEACH IN SAN CRISTOBAL

360 TOUR IN SAN CRISTOBAL

• Arrive at Baltra’s Airport on the 10-11 am flight.
• Take a Bus-Taxi Boat-Shuttle to your hotel and unpack.
• Go for a leisurely stroll in Puerto Ayora’s town, where you can go to the Fish Market or see the stores in the Malecón.
• Enjoy a delicious lunch at any of Malecón’s restaurants.
• After lunch, head to the Charles Darwin Interpretation Center to see the giant tortoises and learn about the history of the Galapagos and its conservation projects.
• Book a Highlands Tour to explore the Lava Tunnels ,  Los Gemelos Twin Craters , and  Giant Tortoise Ranch .
• Once the tour is over and you’re back in Puerto Ayora, book your tours for the next day, either a Bartolome Island Tour or a Gordon Rocks Diving Tour (if you’re into diving) to see Hammerhead sharks and rays.
• After that, indulge in some delicious dinner in town and get some rest, as you have an exciting day ahead.
• Start the day early by heading to the tour agency shop to begin your full-day tour.
• Both these tours are mind-blowing, and you’re going to love them, I guarantee you!
• Lunch will be served on the boat, and you’ll be back in Puerto Ayora by sunset.
• After returning to town, book a Bay Tour  to see Las Grietas the next morning.
• Enjoy dinner and soak up Puerto Ayora’s vibrant nightlife.
• Start the day by meeting your tour operator and begin the Bay Tour to see the Love Chanel and Las Grietas . If you prefer, you can also visit them without a tour; all you need is to take a taxi-boat there and then stay at Alemanes Beach if you can.
• Once back in Puerto Ayora, go for lunch and visit the Nymphs Lagoon (Laguna de Las Ninfas) on your way to Tortuga Bay , the most beautiful beach on Santa Cruz Island.
• In Tortuga Bay, you can surf, snorkel, relax, and enjoy your time there; stay for the entire afternoon if you wish.
• After the sunset, return to Puerto Ayora, shop for some souvenirs, and enjoy your last evening in the Galapagos.
• Most flights leave at around lunchtime, so it’s best to head to the airport as soon as possible.
• Don’t forget to check out the airport shops for some last-minute shopping.
• Allow plenty of time to get through the airport controls and procedures before your departure.

20 BEST HOTELS IN SANTA CRUZ, GALAPAGOS

5 BEST BEACHES IN SANTA CRUZ, GALAPAGOS

15 FREE THINGS TO DO IN SANTA CRUZ, GALAPAGOS

10 AWESOME TOURS IN SANTA CRUZ, GALAPAGOS

14 BEST SNORKELING SPOTS IN SANTA CRUZ, GALAPAGOS

9 BEST DIVE SITES IN SANTA CRUZ, GALAPAGOS

35 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN SANTA CRUZ, GALAPAGOS

DIVING IN NORTH SEYMOUR AND MOSQUERA

DIVING IN GORDON ROCKS

FLOREANA ISLAND TOUR

BARTOLOME ISLAND TOUR

GARRAPATERO BEACH IN SANTA CRUZ

TORTUGA BAY BEACH IN SANTA CRUZ

BAY TOUR IN SANTA CRUZ

• Take a Bus-Taxi Boat-Shuttle to Puerto Ayora’s downtown.
• Take the 2 pm ferry to Puerto Villamil, Isabela Island’s town.
• Check-in at your hotel, unpack and relax.
• Book a Sierra Negra Volcano Tour  for the next day, a Los Tuneles Tour for the 3rd day, and the speedboat at 6 am on the 4th day with your hotel.
• Go for dinner around town and go to the hotel to rest for the next day’s volcano hiking.
• Start the day early by heading to the entrance of your hotel to start the tour.
• Hike Sierra Negra Volcano , enjoy the breathtaking views, and learn about the history of the island.
• After the hike, go snorkeling at  Concha de Perla Lagoon  and see some turtles, marine iguanas, and rays. If you don’t like snorkeling, check out the flamingo lagoon right next to town before sunset.
• Go for dinner at one of the beach restaurants and enjoy the sea view while having a delicious fish meal.
• Head back to your hotel to rest.
• Today it’s  Los Tuneles Tour , the coolest snorkeling tour in the Galapagos.
• Get ready to see penguins, turtles, reef sharks, rays, underwater lava-rock tunnels, and on the surface blue-footed boobies, and an amazing landscape.
• You’ll have lunch on the boat during the tour.
• After the tour, go see what you didn’t see the day before, visit the Flamingos Lagoon or Concha de Perla Lagoon.
• Enjoy your last night on the island, preferably next to the sea.
• Be sure to book a flight that leaves at 13h so you have time to do this itinerary (otherwise it’s safer to go back to Puerto Ayora on the 3rd day).
• Take the 6 am speedboat to Santa Cruz, where you’ll arrive around 9 am.
• Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to observe the giant Galapagos tortoises and learn something about the conservation efforts of the Galapagos and its history.
• After the visit, get a taxi to Itabaca Channel, a taxi-boat, and a bus to the airport.
• Do some souvenir shopping at the airport.

15 BEST HOTELS IN ISABELA, GALAPAGOS

3 BEST BEACHES IN ISABELA, GALAPAGOS

11 FREE THINGS TO DO IN ISABELA, GALAPAGOS

5 AMAZING TOURS IN ISABELA, GALAPAGOS

7 best snorkeling spots in isabela, galapagos.

5 BEST DIVE SITES IN ISABELA, GALAPAGOS

19 AMAZING THINGS TO DO IN ISABELA, GALAPAGOS

TRILLIZOS VOLCANO TOUR IN ISABELA

LOS TUNELES TOUR IN ISABELA

EL RADAR VIEWPOINT HIKE IN ISABELA

WALL OF TEARS IN ISABELA

CONCHA DE PERLA LAGOON IN ISABELA

SIERRA NEGRA VOLCANO TOUR IN ISABELA

Puerto villamil beach in isabela, highlights of a 5-day galapagos itinerary.

I recommend a 5-day Galapagos itinerary that includes either extending the 4-day itinerary by adding an extra day for relaxation or including a tour that was missed out earlier, or adjusting the existing tours to fit in the extra day comfortably.

Alternatively, you could opt for a 5-day Galapagos itinerary that starts with a flight to San Cristobal Island, followed by a visit to Santa Cruz Island, and then departing from the Santa Cruz airport, instead of returning to San Cristobal. Another option is to follow the Isabela Island-based 4-day Galapagos itinerary but with added highlights of Santa Cruz Island. Let me give you more details on each of these options.

• Order a taxi to your hotel and unpack.
• Take a walk on Puerto Baquerizo Moreno’s Malecón, where you can watch sea lions relaxing on the beach.
• Take the speedboat to Santa Cruz Island at 7 am.
• Arrive at 9:30 – 10 am in Puerto Ayora.
• Drop your bags at the hotel and head to the docks to catch a taxi-boat to Las Grietas.
• Snorkel in  Las Grietas  and return to Puerto Ayora.
• Pick up a sandwich for lunch or a quick snack and make your way to  Tortuga Bay Beach .
• Snorkel, relax and enjoy the most beautiful beach in Santa Cruz.
• Hike back to town after one or two hours to do the  Highlands Tour  at 2 pm or stay relaxing on the beach if it’s your last day in the Galapagos.
• If you manage to be back in town by 2 pm, do the Tour of the Highlands of Santa Cruz. Alternatively, take a taxi that takes you to the Lava Tunnels, Los Gemelos, and Giant Tortoise Ranch.
• Once you’re back in Puerto Ayora, go for a stroll to relax from such a compact day and do some shopping, go for a craft beer, have dinner, and enjoy the only bustling vibrant town of the archipelago.
• If you’re an early riser, go for a quick educational session at the  Charles Darwin Research Station  on your last day.
• Pack your bags, have breakfast, do the checkout, and start making your way to the airport.
• If you didn’t have time to shop in Puerto Ayora, there are plenty of shops at the airport.

• Grab a Bus-Taxi Boat-Shuttle to Puerto Ayora’s downtown.
• Take a leisurely stroll in Puerto Ayora’s town, where you can go to the Fish Market or see the stores in the Malecón.
• Drop your bags at the hotel and head to the docks to catch a taxi boat to Las Grietas.
• If you manage to be back in town by 2 pm, do the Tour of the Highlands of Santa Cruz. Alternatively, take a taxi that takes you to the  Lava Tunnels, Los Gemelos,  and  Giant Tortoise Ranch.

Advantages of a 7-day Galapagos Itinerary

A 7-day Galapagos itinerary is definitely worth considering if you have the luxury of time. You can choose to relax or add two extra full-day tours to the 5-day itinerary (and stay in only two of the three main islands) or go on a compact 7-day Galapagos itinerary visiting all three main islands.

This way, you won’t miss out on any of the action and can enjoy a bit of everything this amazing archipelago has to offer. The 7-day Galapagos itinerary may be compact, but it provides enough time to truly appreciate the breathtaking scenery, fascinating wildlife, and amazing activities available.

• Grab a taxi to your hotel and unpack.
• Go for lunch in Puerto Ayora’s Malecón. 
• Visit the  Charles Darwin Research Station  to observe the giant Galapagos tortoises and learn something about the conservation efforts of the Galapagos and its history.
• Make your way to the most beautiful beach of Santa Cruz, Tortuga Bay Beach , where you’ll relax for the afternoon.
• Hike back to town after a couple of hours, go for a stroll to relax and do some shopping, go for a craft beer, have dinner, and enjoy the only bustling vibrant town of the archipelago.
•  Take your breakfast and set yourself up to do the Highlands Tour, to see the   Lava Tunnels, Los Gemelos twin craters , and a  Giant Tortoise Ranch .
• Once you’re back in Puerto Ayora, enjoy a delicious lunch at any of Malecón’s restaurants.
• Check-in at your hotel, unpack, and relax.
• Hike Sierra Negra Volcano , enjoy the breathtaking views and learn about the history of the island.
• After the tour, go see what you didn’t see the day before, and visit the Flamingos Lagoon or Concha de Perla Lagoon.
• Be sure to book a flight that leaves at 13h so you have time to do this itinerary.
• Go for a stroll around Puerto Ayora’s Malecón where you can visit the Fish Market and go to some souvenir shops.
• Finally, get a taxi to Itabaca Channel, a taxi boat, and a bus to the airport.

The Ultimate Experience of a 10-day Galapagos Itinerary

Are you looking for the ultimate adventure? Then look no further than this 10-day Galapagos itinerary! It’s the most comprehensive land-based itinerary available in the Galapagos Islands, featuring more full-day tours to visit the best islands, including Bartolome, Española, and Floreana. These islands offer some of the most interesting and unique experiences in the Galapagos. However, if you prefer not to visit Floreana, there are plenty of other exciting activities to consider, like snorkeling in Santa Fé or diving in Gordon Rocks in Santa Cruz, North Seymour, and Mosquera.

This Galapagos itinerary gives you ample time to explore the most beautiful spots, witness incredible wildlife, and take in stunning landscapes. With 10 days, you’ll have plenty of time to see everything the Galapagos has to offer. It’s truly the ideal amount of time to get the best out of your Galapagos experience. While there are always more things to do and see, this 10-day Galapagos itinerary is the most interesting and unforgettable itinerary available in the Galapagos Islands.

• If you’re into diving, go for the  Kicker Rock Dive , one of the most famous in the Galapagos.
• Alternatively, go to  Española Island , one of the most beautiful and unique islands of the archipelago, with endemic species like the pink and green christmas iguana and the waved albatross.
• If you’re on a budget, visit  La Loberia Beach  by taxi, foot, or bicycle, and swim with sea lions or surf.
• In the evening, go to  Playa Mann Beach  or  Punta Carola Beach  for more surfing/relaxing next to downtown.
• Go for lunch in Puerto Ayora’s Malecón, 
• Pass through the Nymphs Lagoon , and make your way to the most beautiful beach of Santa Cruz, Tortuga Bay Beach , where you’ll relax for the afternoon.
• Start the day by visiting the  Charles Darwin Interpretation Center  to see the giant tortoises and learn about the history of the Galapagos and its conservation projects.
• Book a  Highlands Tour  to explore the  Lava Tunnels ,  Los Gemelos Twin Craters , and  Giant Tortoise Ranch .
• Once the tour is over and you’re back in Puerto Ayora, book your tour for the next day, a Bartolome  Island Tour  a  Florena Island Tour , or a  Gordon Rocks Diving Tour  (if you’re into diving) to see Hammerhead sharks and rays.
• Whichever tour you chose head to the tour agency/dive center in the morning to start the adventure.
• On the  Bartolome Island Tour , you’ll go on a sailing boat between Daphne Mayor and Minor Islets until Bartolome Island, the most photographed Island in the Galapagos. Sometimes there are dolphins on the way, following the boat.
• In Floreana , you’ll learn about a peculiar pirate story, an Austrian Baroness and her love trio, and a toothless German Doctor and at in these two tours snorkel on beautiful beaches.
• In Gordon Rocks , you are probably gonna see Hammerhead sharks, eagle and manta rays, and other amazing underwater species.
• All the tours include lunch and at the end of the day around sunset time, you’ll be back in Puerto Ayora.
• Enjoy your last evening in Santa Cruz and get ready for Isabela Island.

Day 7: 

• Wake up early, and take the 7 am speedboat to Isabela Island, which should arrive around 10 am in Puerto Villamil.
• After reserving everything either stay on the gorgeous  Puerto Villamil Beach  for the rest of the day or go to the  Wall of Tears .
• When you’re back in town go for dinner to the hotel to rest for the next day’s volcano hiking.
• Go on a leisurely stroll in Puerto Ayora’s town, where you can go to the Fish Market or see the stores in the Malecón for some souvenirs.
• Get a taxi to Itabaca Channel, a taxi boat, and a bus to the airport.
• Do some souvenir shopping at the airport’s many shops.

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Budget Considerations for a Galapagos Itinerary

The Galapagos Islands are truly an amazing travel destination that you can experience on a budget! For just $500-600, you can discover the archipelago’s incredible highlights with a 4-day Galapagos itinerary, on an island hopping adventure. To keep your costs down, we recommend comparing flights, accommodations, activities, and food options. Additionally, consider staying on the main islands and taking day trips instead of a pricey cruise. 

Luckily, there are plenty of affordable places to stay, such as charming guesthouses and hostels. You can also rest assured that  responsible tourism practices  and safety are a top priority in the Galapagos. If you’re feeling adventurous and interested in last-minute Galapagos cruises or volunteering, those options are available to explore as well. By following these simple tips, you’ll have an unforgettable and budget-friendly trip to the Galapagos!

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Conclusion: What Itinerary is Right For You?

The perfect Galapagos itinerary for you will depend on your interests, the time you have available, and the activities you want to participate in. Whether you choose a 4-day, 5-day, 7-day, or 10-day island-hopping Galapagos itinerary, or a luxurious Galapagos cruise, one thing is for sure – this treasure of a place will leave you in awe.

With abundant wildlife, stunning landscapes, and exciting adventures, the Galapagos Islands offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience. So, plan your trip, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in this unique and magical destination.

If your kind of Galapagos itinerary is an amazing Cruise-Based Experience, I’ve also written a detailed article to help you choose the best one: BEST GALAPAGOS CRUISE: A GUIDE FOR ALL THE BUDGETS

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San Cristobal Island  – The easternmost island of the Galápagos, the “Isla Bonita”

Santa Cruz Island  – The island with the best tourism infrastructure.

Isabela Island  – The most adventurous and less explored island of the main three.

2 thoughts on “THE BEST GALAPAGOS ITINERARY – FROM 4 TO 10 DAYS”

Thank you for the amazing review, I am about to choose the 10-days, and I hope and guess you recommended the best from all the things you have done and heard about

Hey Ron, nice to hear that, you’re gonna have a blast for sure. That’s the best you can do in 10 days. You can also go with Cruise as an alternative. Have fun!

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I've visited all of the 13 main Galápagos Islands. Here are 10 things every first-time traveler should do.

• As a South American travel specialist, I've traveled to the Galápagos Islands several times.
• Travelers can expect to see species like the giant tortoise and the blue-footed booby. 
• Adventurous visitors can even hike to the rim of one of the world's largest volcanic craters.

I've worked as a South American travel specialist for eight years and have traveled to all 13 of the main Galápagos Islands.

Located 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the beautiful islands are mainly known for the many rare wildlife species that reside there.

Here are the top things I think every first-timer should do when visiting the Galápagos Islands.

See the islands' most famous residents up close

Many of the birds, reptiles, and mammals found on the Galápagos Islands are endemic, meaning they can't be found anywhere else in the world. Perhaps the most well-known species in the Galápagos is the giant tortoise, which can weigh over 500 pounds. 

In my experience, the best place to see them in the wild is in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island, where you can visit a private reserve like El Chato. You can also see the giant tortoise at the Charles Darwin Research Station's breeding facilities on Santa Cruz Island.

However, keep in mind that Galápagos National Park rules mandate that visitors must remain at least 6 feet (or 2 meters) away from all wildlife. If you get too close, the giant tortoises may hiss like enormous cats to warn you to step back. 

Hike to the rim of one of the world's largest volcanic craters

Visitors to Isabela Island can hike to the rim of the Sierra Negra Volcano, which measures 6 miles in diameter, making it one of the largest craters in the world.

The trailhead is a 45-minute drive from the town of Puerto Villamil, and the approximately 12-mile hike typically takes about five to six hours to complete.

Since the volcano is within the national park, all visitors must be accompanied by a licensed naturalist guide. 

See the blue-footed booby's mating dance

In my opinion, nothing is more entertaining and fascinating than experiencing the blue-footed booby's intricate and goofy multi-part mating dance.

These iconic birds can be found on the majority of the islands and their mating dances typically take place during the spring and summer months. 

Experience the underwater world while snorkeling or diving

The ocean surrounding the Galápagos has just as much action as the islands themselves, and snorkeling and diving are the most popular ways to experience it. The protected marine reserve surrounding the islands is home to endemic species like the Galápagos penguin, the only species of penguin found in the northern hemisphere.

 You may also be lucky enough to see the marine iguana, the only known swimming iguana in the world. 

Visit a coffee farm in the highlands of Santa Cruz

The rich volcanic soil of the Galápagos Islands is ideal for growing coffee beans. Because 97% of the islands are within the national park and only a small part can be used for agricultural purposes, coffee production is limited.

However, several coffee farms on Santa Cruz Island offer tours and tastings.

Experience local life in the town of Puerto Ayora

Only four of the 13 major islands in the Galápagos are inhabited by people. Puerto Ayora, located on the island of Santa Cruz, is home to the largest human population.  

I recommend stopping by the Santa Cruz Fish Market in the morning to watch the sea lions and pelicans patiently line up around the fish counter for scraps. In my opinion, this is one of the best ways to have a glimpse of local life and witness how the islands' human inhabitants coexist with the wildlife. 

At night, enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants along Charles Darwin Avenue that use fresh, local seafood from the market.

Also check out the Galapagos Islands' first microbrewery, The Santa Cruz Brewery, which opened in 2015. One of its unique brews includes an English porter made with locally-grown coffee. 

While in Puerto Ayora, you can also hike or take a water taxi to Tortuga Bay. This wide, white-sand beach is popular for spotting iguanas and a variety of birdlife. You can also have some fun in the water with activities like kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and snorkeling. 

Learn about the human history of the islands

Although the wildlife tends to be the star of the show, the Galápagos Islands have an interesting human history as well. 

Long before Charles Darwin visited in 1835 , the Galápagos Islands were frequented by pirates and whalers. Post Office Bay on Floreana Island is named after the islands' first post office. The office is a barrel placed by whalers on a small beach in the 1700s, where they would leave messages for other sailors to pick up and deliver. 

If Post Office Bay is included in your itinerary, bring a postcard with you — visitors can still leave their own postcards in the barrel for other travelers to take and hand-deliver. Take a look through the pile to see if there's a postcard you can deliver when you return home.

Sail past Kicker Rock at sunset

Visitors who explore the Galápagos Islands on a cruise may see Kicker Rock on the itinerary. The ships often circumnavigate this massive rock monolith rising about 500 feet above the ocean.

It's also considered one of the top snorkeling spots on the islands. 

Explore the islands' naturally-formed lava tunnels

The highlands of Santa Cruz Island have ancient lava flows under the surface, which created tunnels that visitors can walk through. Galápagos Magic Camp , a tented safari-style lodge, has private lava tunnels where visitors can enjoy a candlelit dinner.

Learn about conservation efforts to protect the islands

In my opinion, the most important thing visitors to the Galápagos Islands can do is learn about the initiatives in place to help protect their fragile, unique ecosystems. 

For example, the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island, and similar facilities on San Cristobal and Isabela Islands, raise endangered giant tortoises in breeding centers to eventually be released into the wild. 

IGTOA , the International Galapagos Tour Operators Association, is a non-profit organization made up of travel companies, tour operators, and conservation organizations that contribute to a variety of conservation projects. It's a fantastic resource for those looking for a conservation-minded professional to help plan an unforgettable (and sustainable) Galápagos adventure.

Correction: September 26, 2023   — An earlier version of this story misstated that the blue-footed booby is an endemic species to the Galápagos Islands. Although the islands are home to many, the blue-footed booby can be found along the Pacific coastline.