Galapagos Islands Tours & Vacations

Male Marine Iguanas and Sally lightfoot crab on the rocks of the Galapagos islands, Ecuador.

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

Get ready to observe wildlife the way Charles Darwin did hundreds of years ago. Inquisitive sea lions and spiky marine iguanas breach and bask between island and shore. Hammerhead sharks patrol the deep waters while blue-footed boobies and albatross cut through the sky. Nowadays, these Ecuadorian islands host a steady stream of modern-day explorers cruising from isla to isla. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters, traverse volcanic landscapes and spot animals you've only ever seen pictures of. To sum it up, there's simply no place on Earth quite like the Galapagos.

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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

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Galapagos Islands travel FAQs

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.

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.

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

Galapagos Islands Tours & Trips

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Galápagos Adventure: Snorkelling & Sea Lions

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Galápagos Adventure: Snorkelling & Sea Lions

  • Christmas & New Year
  • Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station
  • Explore the nightlife on San Cristóbal Island
  • Meet your group and guide in Quito
“My Galapagos g adventure trip was the most amazing experience I had travelling so far!”

Galapagos Discovery

  • Meet the Giant Tortoise of Galapagos
  • Snorkel with turtles and sharks
  • Spectacular animals and plants
“The travel to the destination islands in Galapagos was great. Tour leader was very knowledgeable.”

Galápagos Multisport

  • Visit Tortoise Breeding Centre
  • Hike Sierra Negra Volcano on Isabela
  • Explore Quito and the Equator
“It was a great Trip! They came thru and exceeded all expectations. G adventures should be very proud of their staff.”

Galapagos Experience

  • Sightseeing
  • Snorkel with sea turtles at Tijeretas
  • Hike to Sierra Negra Volcano's crater
  • Learn at the Galapagos Interpretation Center
“Nice trip. Nice activities. You have to do the Kicker Rock in San Cristobal.”

Ultimate Galapagos Islands Adventure

  • Island Hopping
  • Sail and discover enchanting pirate caves on Floreana Island
  • Swim in crystal-clear waters with turtles and reef sharks
  • Say hello to giant tortoises and intriguing iguanas
“A truly amazing Active Adventure!”

10 Days Galapagos Island Hopping in Santa Cruz and Isabela

  • Discover marine life at Tintoreras Islet
  • Explore giant tortoises at Fausto Llerena
  • Snorkel with sea lions at La Lobería
“Great tour and nice guides. I would highly recommend responsible tour company!”

Affordable Galapagos 8 Days Tour

  • Snorkel with marine life at Kicker Rock
  • Visit Tortoise Ranch on Santa Cruz Island
  • Kayak and snorkel at Darwin Bay
“Love the model. I would do it again.”

8 Days Island Hopping in Galapagos Islands for Gay Travelers

  • Meet giant tortoises on Santa Cruz Island
  • Explore Quito's historic colonial center
  • Discover unique wildlife on a Galápagos hike

Magical Galapagos (5 Days)

  • Explore lava tunnels and natural habitats
  • Boat trip to an uninhabited island for hiking
  • Visit Giant Tortoise reserve in Santa Cruz
“super super super super”

Galapagos Island Hopping -  7 Days

  • Explore Giant Tortoise Breeding Center
  • Hike to Sierra Negra Volcano's massive crater
  • Snorkel with sea life at Concha Perla

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The Best Cruises for Exploring the Galapagos Islands

Image may contain Transportation Vehicle Yacht Rock Land Nature Outdoors Sea Water Scenery Boat and Landscape

Galapagos cruises are the best way to experience the collection of remote, mostly uninhabited islands about 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador. But cruises to the Galapagos Islands aren’t like cruises anywhere else. The ships here are smaller, with some carrying as few as 16 passengers. There are no water slides, elaborate Broadway shows, casinos, or wild nightclubs. And don’t expect big bus tours in port either.

Galapagos cruises are about experiencing nature and wildlife while limiting environmental impact as much as possible. Ships are built for sustainability, toting items like kayaks, paddleboards, and scuba gear. Itineraries may feature two active excursions a day, limiting downtime on board the ship. Instead of museums and historic sights, you’ll visit uninhabited islands to encounter marine iguanas, sea lions, unspoiled beaches, and the adventures of a lifetime.

Trips to the Galapagos Islands are logistically complicated, making cruises an especially good way to experience the area. Travelers to the Galapagos Islands must first fly to Quito or Guayaquil, Ecuador , for a night before flying to the Galapagos to board their ships. All travelers must also be accompanied by National Parks Guides who can help them navigate these largely undeveloped islands.

Galapagos cruise itineraries are typically a week long and cover a portion of the islands, sometimes more. Here’s everything to know about cruising in the Galapagos, from frequently asked questions to the best Galapagos cruise itineraries to book now.

Best luxury Galapagos cruise

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With pleasant temperatures all year long, the best time to visit the Galapagos Islands is whenever you’re ready to go. Several cruise lines sail to the Galapagos Islands all year long. While you can see wildlife all year, December is hatching season for the giant tortoises, and July is mating season for blue-footed boobies and short-eared owls. Sea turtles lay their eggs early in the year and fully formed marine iguanas typically hatch in April and May.

Are Galapagos cruises expensive?

The Galapagos Islands aren’t a bargain destination. Expect to pay somewhere between $5,000 and $12,000 per traveler depending on the ship, itinerary, and length of the voyage. But one thing’s for sure: Whatever your preference, there’s a Galapagos Islands cruise for you. These are seven of the best Galapagos cruises for every type of traveler.

Ecoventura

Whatever your preference, there’s a Galapagos Islands cruise for you. For those who want to travel in style, the ships of luxury cruise line Ecoventura meet expectations—and then some.

Ecoventura offers one of the most luxurious—and family-friendly cruises—in the Galapagos. Each of its three expedition yachts—the Origin, Theory, and Evolve —can accommodate 20 guests across 10 staterooms. These seven-night all-inclusive voyages make environmental responsibility a priority, encouraging guests to join the effort to help preserve this delicate area. Children six and up are welcome on board. Some staterooms connect to create spacious family suites, and two are designed to accommodate three guests each. Kids menus, children’s activities, and a kids club are also available. For adults, there’s a fitness center, jacuzzi, cooking demonstrations, and group cooking classes. You’ll also find kayaks, standup paddleboards, snorkeling gear, and zodiacs on board. On shore, naturalists lead daily two-hour nature walks, visiting lava fields, scenic cliffs, and secluded beaches. Replenish yourself at the onboard restaurant which serves a breakfast buffet, afternoon tea, and multi-course lunch and dinner menus.

Uncruise’s Galapagos island cruise will take you to seven islands over the course of a week on board La Pinta , a 48-passenger yacht boasting floor-to-ceiling windows, a sundeck, a fitness center, and a hot tub. This isn’t the newest or most luxurious ship sailing the Galapagos, but it’s comfortable and has been recently refurbished. It also comes with everything you need to make the most of your Galapagos adventure—including kayaks, paddleboards, snorkeling gear, scuba equipment, and a glass-bottom boat. This is a Galapagos cruise where nature and wildlife take center stage: Hike Dragon Hill on Isla Santa Cruz while looking for iguanas and flamingos, paddleboard alongside sea lions at Isla Floreana, or enjoy a stroll along a secluded white-sand beach. This small cruise operator prides itself on cruises that don’t feel like cruises. If you think cruising isn’t your thing, Uncruise might change your mind.

Join a small group of future friends on the Reina Silvia Voyager , G Adventures’ newest catamaran that’s custom-built for sailing the Galapagos. This vessel began sailing in 2022, and two of its 10 cabins are designed for solo travelers . These solo cabins are no tiny hideaways. Each comes with a queen-sized bed, desk, and a large picture window to frame your Galapagos view. A 10-day itinerary starts and ends in Quito, taking guests on a journey through the Central and East Islands to look for sea lions, iguanas, and a seemingly endless variety of birds. Go kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, or paddleboarding—or kick back and relax on the spacious sundeck while enjoying some of the most unspoiled views in the world. There’s a chef on board to ensure you never go hungry, a jacuzzi to soothe sore muscles, lots of spaces for socializing when you want to, and a bar that’s perfect for sunset cocktails.

Avalon Waterways may be better known for its European river cruises , but it also sails the Galapagos Islands. The Treasure of the Galapagos is a gorgeous small ship, carrying a maximum of 16 guests. And while there’s no long list of restaurants onboard, there are creative, locally inspired menus featuring seasonal ingredients and lots of vegetarian options. You’ll also find daily natural history lectures, a team of multilingual naturalists, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows, and a plunge pool.

If you have family members who are keen on science and nature then the a science center on board the Hurtigruten...

If you have family members who are keen on science and nature, then the a science center on board the Hurtigruten Expedition’s MS Santa Cruz II will be sure to delight.

There may be no better way to get your kid interested in science and history than a Galapagos Islands cruise on board Hurtigruten Expedition’s MS Santa Cruz II . The ship operates a Citizen Science Program, enlisting guests to help with completing research projects. There’s also a science center on board and a slate of lectures and expert-led discussions. The HX In Darwin’s Footsteps itinerary follows the famous evolutionary biologist’s journey through the Galapagos. Walk along a beach Darwin visited in 1835, see the giant tortoises, which have a lifespan of over 100 years, that may have greeted him nearby, and visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, which helps care for endangered baby tortoises. Only about 15,000 Galapagos tortoises remain in existence, and there really is no better place to learn about them or the endangerment of wildlife. While there’s no specific kids programming, children six and up are welcome onboard the MS Santa Cruz II.

If you grew up reading National Geographic magazine, you’ll want to hop on board the National Geographic Gemini . The ship sails the Galapagos as part of a partnership between Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic , two legendary names in exploration. National Geographic experts lead these journeys and they’re often joined by National Geographic photographers. Kids can join the National Geographic Global Explorers program, a hands-on experience designed to teach them about geographic exploration and scientific research. The National Geographic Gemini can accommodate up to 48 passengers in 27 guest suites. More than a dozen suites come with private balconies, one of which is large enough to accommodate a private hot tub. (Don’t fret if that suite is already booked, there’s a whirlpool hot tub on the sundeck that’s open to all guests.) You’ll also find a well-stocked library, a well-stocked bar, and meals made with locally sourced ingredients on board.

If you want to learn about Ecuadorian cuisine while sailing the Galapagos, Silversea may be the cruise line for you. Silversea is a luxury cruise line known for its next-level onboard dining programs . Learn all about the local cuisine from the ship’s executive chef while feasting on locally sourced meat and produce—you can try Ecuadorian cheese aged in lava tubes and even make ceviche during a hands-on cooking demonstration. The Silver Origin ’s onboard restaurants serve a mix of international, traditional, and modern Ecuadorian food, and vegans and vegetarians aren’t afterthoughts here. Each Silversea suite comes with the service of a butler; most have private teak verandas as well. With a capacity for 100 guests, Silversea’s Silver Origin is one of the largest ships sailing the Galapagos Islands, but these voyages regularly sell out, so be sure to book early.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

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Galapagos Vacation & Tour Options

For your next vacation, galapagos travel center offers you a great variety of tour options to the galapagos islands as well as on the mainland of ecuador. just choose whatever suits you best.

If you want to see as many islands as possible in a self-chosen amount of time, you can opt for one of our Galapagos cruises . If you prefer sleeping on firm ground, you can also choose one of our hotel-based tours on the Galapagos islands or the mainland . Are you fascinated by the marine life in the archipelago? Then go for our scuba diving Galapagos tours. For adding some more sports, you can opt for our Galapagos adventure tours .

Galapagos Vacation Cruise

Cruises are the most popular choice to tour the Galapagos Islands. Galapagos tour cruises range from luxury class to economy class boats.

Land Based Tours

Taking a land based tour in the Galapagos Islands provides the chance to explore the islands in their entirety through a number of tours and activities.

Galapagos Diving Tours

See whale sharks and large schools of hammerheads in a live-aboard or hotel-based diving tour. Take a land + dive combined nature tour for the full nature vacation experience.

Galapagos Adventure Tours

Adventure travel vacation packages include activities such as kayaking, mountain biking, horse riding and snorkeling. These adventure tours are perfect for active travelers.

Search & Book your Galapagos Tour!

Find the best Galapagos cruise promotions, real time availability and book direct your vacation with the Galapagos Travel Experts:

Find your dream Galapagos cruise now:

Children: ages 6 to 11

Which kind of Galapagos tour is best for me?

Discovering the Galapagos and enjoying the vacation of a lifetime, has never been easier than with the help of our Galapagos experts . Thanks to our years of expertise, we have combined the best land tours , and offer the best Galapagos cruises .

But wait… what is the difference between a land-based tour and a cruise?

There is not a lot of difference between a Galapagos land-based tour and a Galapagos cruise . Considering that the visitor sites will be almost the same as long as they can be reached within a couple hours from your hotel, wildlife will be the same and the experience will be the best of your life.

Nevertheless, and considering the questions that this may arise, we have prepared these FAQs about the difference between these kinds of tours.

Which is the cheapest way to visit the Galapagos?

All of the Galapagos cruises are all-inclusive, which means that inside the rate everything will be covered, from the meals, drinks (save for alcoholic beverages), to the guided-excursions, night accommodation, and inter-island transfers.

On the other hand, land-based tours not always have everything included in the rate, meaning that most dinners will have to be covered by you, apart from the per person expense of the daily tour and transfers, which does not necessarily means that hotel-based will be more expensive.

In the chart below, you will see referral prices of the average cost per day of Galapagos land-based tours vs. Galapagos cruises (in US Dollars):

Will I see the same visitor sites?

Most of the visitor sites seen in both tours will be the same. However, due to cruising time, boats are able to reach some islands that cannot be seen on a land-based tour. This happens because most of the traveling while onboard a cruise occurs at night. Therefore, while you sleep the vessel can reach longer distances.

Is a cruise as comfortable as a hotel?

This is a tricky question. When choosing a good vessel, like the ones suggested by our Travel Experts, you will be comfortable while cruising, anyhow, sea roughness has to be always considered. On the other hand, and indisputably sleeping on land will always be stable and comfortable.

Where does the tricky part come? Transferring between islands occurs aboard speedboats, which can be a really bumpy ride, that can last from 2 to 3 hours.

Above all, these are the most important things to consider when booking a tour to the Galapagos Islands. In order to customize your Galapagos trip, so it can fit your budget and your time, it is highly recommended to receive free-online assistance from one of our Ecuador & Galapagos experts.

Galapagos Islands Visitor Sites Map

Galapagos Conservation

Responsible Travel

Based in the United Kingdom, the Galapagos Conservation Trust (GCT) is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising funds for the protection and conservation of the Galapagos Islands. Established in 1995, the GCT has supported a wide variety of conservation and awareness programs.

GalapagosIslands.com and Galapagos Travel Center have supported GTC in conservation efforts in the Galapagos Islands.

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The Islands Secrets

The Island's Secrets

5 Days from US$1,415 p/p

Galapagos Treasure Quest

Galapagos Treasure Quest

4 Days from US$1,255 p/p

Full Day Otavalo

Full Day Otavalo

Full Day from US$173 p/p

City Tour and Middle of the World

City Tour + Middle of the World

Full Day from US$160 p/p

Ecuador Scenic

Ecuador Scenic

8 Days from US$1,498 p/p

Natural Paradise Yacht

Natural Paradise Yacht

4 Days from US$3,245 p/p

Legend Cruise Ship

Legend Cruise Ship

4 Days from US$1,939 p/p

Infinity Yacht

Infinity Yacht

4 Days from US$3,945 p/p

Customer Reviews

Is not only our expertise and knowledge of the travel market that stand-out for us, but also the outstanding services recognized by our former passengers in their comments and reviews, here and in our TripAdvisor profile .

Traveled to Islands Secrets Land Based Tour Hi Daniela, I'm back in Quito, and off on the birding trip tomorrow. I want to thank you personally for all the organisation and support. David Betram June 2018
Traveled to Galapagos Dream Land Based Tour Thank you so much for all the planning you did for us to make this an unforgettable vacation. We will definitely recommend to friends and family should they ever wish to visit Galapagos or Ecuador. We also hope to return sometime in the future. Terry Bucholtz April 2019
Traveled on the Majestic + Land Ecuador + Amazon + Peru Thank you, thank you, thank you. We had an amazing trip. You could not have planned this any better nor had the staff more attentive, guides were friendly and very knowledgeable and the hotels were very nice. Carol & Craig Bennett May 2018
Traveled to Land Based Galapagos + Ecuador Andes Dear Daniela, I will highly recommended your company and especially you to all the people who ask about our trip. I can’t say enough about how helpful you were. Thank you from all of us, Devon Icaza March 2018

View more Galapagos Reviews

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