Galapagos Islands Travel Insights

Spend your nights on water and your days exploring fascinating landscapes on a Galápagos cruise

Cruise the Galápagos - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

During a Galápagos cruise, you can explore dramatic coastal cliffs, serene lagoons, and wildlife-filled volcanic landscapes. If you're seeking a short but action-packed adventure, choose between a three or four-night cruise featuring the islands of Santa Cruz, Española, and San Cristóbal. Or, opt for a six or eight-day cruise to relax more between excursions. Diving enthusiasts will find a dedicated eight-day cruise an excellent fit, while those eager to get off the beaten path spend 15 fabulous days at sea.

Experience the Galápagos from the comfort of boutique hotels and luxury "glamping" resorts (photo courtesy of Galápagos Safari Camp)

10 Days in the Galápagos - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days in the Galápagos, you can visit multiple islands and still enjoy a couple of days on mainland Ecuador. For ultimate luxury, board a superyacht and sail between nine spectacular islands. Alternatively, choose a shorter cruise to allow more time for exploring Quito and Guayaquil. If you prefer top-notch resorts, a land-based trip combining adventurous excursions and relaxing boat tours is ideal, or consider a detour to the lush Ecuadorian Amazon for incredible wildlife encounters.

Consider an eco-conscious luxury trip to the Galápagos Islands (photo courtesy of Pikaia Lodge)

1 Week in the Galápagos Islands - 4 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

With a week in the Galápagos Islands on a luxury-themed itinerary, you can experience the unspoiled landscapes and unique luxuries of Isla Santa Cruz and Isla Isabela while basing yourself in lavish accommodations. Or, settle in onboard an extraordinary catamaran and spend your days sailing to remote islands and picturesque bays. Include a stay in Quito to delve into Ecuador's welcoming culture and upscale cuisine and overnight in Otavalo for an introduction to life in the highlands.

Discover 13 Galápagos Islands and their unique qualities aboard a luxury yacht

2 Weeks in the Galápagos Islands - 4 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks in the Galápagos Islands on an elevated itinerary, you can enjoy unhurried explorations of striking volcanic landscapes, verdant highlands, and serene lagoons. Board a luxury cruiser to relax in style between exciting land adventures, or stay in premier accommodations on Isla San Cristóbal, Isla Isabela, and Isla Santa Cruz for a richer cultural experience. Complement your island journey with a stay in Quito to marvel at Andean vistas or in Guayaquil to enjoy the charm of the coastal mainland.

Dive alongside turtles and tropical fish on an eight-day cruising adventure in the Galápagos

Galápagos First-Class Diving Cruise - 8 Days

Don your wetsuit and flippers and get ready to encounter a menagerie of exotic marine life on an island-hopping Galápagos diving cruise. On each day of this scenic eight-day experience, you'll enjoy at least one dive and sometimes three or four. By the time the adventure is over, you'll have explored the top snorkel and scuba sites throughout the archipelago, from Isla Wolf to Cape Marshall—plus enjoyed nature hikes to see land-based residents like the famous Galápagos tortoise.

Take a spin around Sullivan Bay on your epic luxury cruise through the Galápagos archipelago

Epic Galápagos Exploration by Luxury Yacht: Cruise to Remote Islands, Hidden Bays & Rare Wildlife - 15 Days

Spend two weeks and a day on a bucket-list highlights cruise around the Galápagos. Travel in style on a luxury yacht as you embark on daily excursions to secluded bays, beaches, and hiking trails around the famous islands of Santa Cruz, Isabela, Española, and more. You'll follow in the footsteps of Charles Darwin and experience the biodiversity of this archipelago as you spend time with sea lions, walk with giant tortoises, and marvel at exotic birds like blue-footed boobies.

Step aboard your luxury cruiser, ready to explore the Galápagos (photo courtesy of M/C Endemic)

Luxury Galápagos Cruise & Classic Wildlife Highlights - 8 Days

See the Galápagos in style as you cruise around Charles Darwin's favorite archipelago by luxury twin-hulled yacht. Hop between the most famous islands, like Santa Cruz and Isabela, as you explore hidden coves, lush highlands, massive volcanoes, and white-sand beaches. The wildlife is the real star here, and each day, you'll spend time with iconic Galápagos animals, including sea lions, iguanas, and giant tortoises, while evenings are spent in first-class comfort aboard your Jacuzzi-equipped boat.

Go in search of the waved albatross on Isla Española

Sailing Darwin's Route: Galápagos Nature Cruise - 5 Days

This brisk five-day sailing trip around the Galápagos is perfect for those who want to experience the wildlife highlights of these famous islands in under a week. Hit the ground running as you board a small but well-equipped catamaran for a nautical journey to uninhibited islets, secluded bays, and remote white-sand beaches. The archipelago's remarkable creatures will be out in force at each locale as you snorkel with tropical fish, walk alongside giant tortoises, meet sea lions on the beach, and more.

The last day of your trip includes snorkeling around a Galápagos landmark: Kicker Rock

Introductory Nature Cruise Through the Galápagos - 4 Days

No other ecosystems on earth have furthered our understanding of natural history more than the Galápagos—just ask Charles Darwin. Perfect for wildlife and nature enthusiasts, you'll follow in the footsteps of the famed British naturalist on this four-day cruise to the archipelago's top nature spots in search of giant tortoises, winged albatrosses, blue-footed boobies, sea-lions, and more. Finish this short but sweet adventure snorkeling among the marine life at the famous Kicker Rock.

Cruise to Darwin's Bay on the Galápagos island of Isabela

Luxury Ecuadorian Andes & Galápagos Escape - 14 Days

Experience Ecuador's highlights, from its Andean highlands to the biodiverse wonderland of the Galápagos, on this two-week itinerary that begins in Quito with a decadent chocolate tasting. Then, jet off to the legendary Galápagos for a multiday luxury cruise to witness dazzling wildlife like giant tortoises, flightless cormorants, sea lions, and much more. Return to the mainland and cap the adventure with soaks in natural hot springs and horseback riding in Cotopaxi National Park.

Luxury awaits at your boutique hotel in the Galápagos (photo courtesy of Iguana Crossing)

In Darwin's Footsteps: A Luxury Trip Around Coastal Ecuador & the Galápagos - 14 Days

Experience a bit of coastal Ecuador and three Galápagos islands on this two-week luxury holiday for the ages. Spend a few days hitting the highlights around colorful Guayaquil, like Cajas National Park, before flying to the Galápagos and kicking off the island adventure with snorkeling at the best spots on Isla San Cristóbal. Things only get more exciting as you hop from one biodiverse island to another, spending time with giant tortoises, hiking to volcanoes, visiting an organic coffee farm, and more.

Hop between small and uninhabited islands of the Galápagos on a luxury catamaran cruiser

Luxury Galápagos Voyage: Ecuadorian Highlights & Archipelago Cruise - 14 Days

Embark on the journey of a lifetime as you visit two of Ecuador's most legendary locales: the historical hotbed of Quito and the biodiverse Galápagos archipelago. In the capital, you'll walk amid Spanish colonial history, straddle the hemispheres in the "Middle of the World," and soar over the highlands in a helicopter. Then, hop on a luxury cruise ship for a spin around the Galápagos, stopping to swim with sea lions and marvel at wildlife like giant tortoises, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and more.

Combine the stunning natural wonders of the Galápagos with stays in 5-star accommodation (photo courtesy of Hotel Indigo, Galápagos)

Ultimate Luxury Exploration of the Galápagos - 10 Days

Enjoy bucket-list eco-adventures in one of the world's best places for it: the Galápagos. Over 10 days, you'll explore the highlights of this famous archipelago as you hop between beautiful and biodiverse islands like Santa Cruz, Isabela, and San Cristóbal—plus a few uninhabited islets. The best part is that, between all the nature hikes, snorkeling trips, wildlife tours, and other excursions, you'll stay in style in some of the Galápagos' funkiest and most luxurious hotels.

Wake up to the sounds of local wildlife at your luxury safari camp (photo courtesy of Galápagos Safari Camp)

Galápagos Safari Camp Luxury Adventure - 10 Days

Immerse yourself in the biodiversity of the Galápagos with this 10-day adventure based between two luxury wilderness camps. Taking a page from the exclusive bush lodges of Africa, your well-equipped camps on the islands of Santa Cruz and Isabela are the jumping-off points for wide-ranging adventures like visiting uninhabited islets, hiking white-sand beaches, and meeting exotic wildlife. After a week of "glamping," wind down your trip back on the mainland with a cocktail class and city tour in Quito.

Luxury digs and diverse wildlife await on Isla Isabela (photo courtesy of Golden Bay Galápagos)

Luxury Adventure in the Ecuadorian Amazon & the Galápagos - 10 Days

Journey to two of the world's most fascinating ecosystems—the Amazon rainforest and Galápagos archipelago—on a 10-day adventure in Ecuador. First, dive into the nation's cuisine in a cooking class in Quito before flying to Tena, a city on the Río Napo amid the rainforests of the Amazon. Embark on jungle hikes, go bird-watching, and discover sustainable farming methods before continuing to the Galápagos. There, you'll explore uninhabited islands, go snorkeling, see tortoise hatchlings, and more.

All aboard your Galápagos super yacht! (photo courtesy of Aqua Mare)

Galápagos Grandeur: Explore the Archipelago by Luxury Yacht - 10 Days

Step aboard the Aqua Mare, a luxury superyacht that will whisk you off to the highlights of the Galápagos archipelago. Over 10 days, you'll hop between grand isles and uninhabited islets as you spend time with famous Galápagos residents like sea lions, giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, and more. Nature hikes are also on the agenda as you explore beaches and coastal viewpoints before ending the trip with museum tours in Ecuador's dynamic capital, Quito.

Explore the islands of the Galápagos by day, and relax onboard your luxury cruiser at night (photo courtesy of M/C Endemic)

Luxury Galápagos Cruise & Highlights of Cuenca & Quito - 10 Days

Take to the seas on a luxury cruise to the highlight isles of the world-famous Galápagos. After sightseeing in Ecuador's largest city of Guayaquil, you'll fly to the islands and board a luxury cruiser, sailing first to Isla Isabela, where you'll hike to massive volcano craters and stop at a breeding center to see tortoise hatchlings. Then hop around other isles, like Fernandina and Santiago, to explore white-sand beaches before finishing the trip in the art museums of Quito, Ecuador's capital.

Focus on smaller, lesser-visited islands like Genovesa and Plaza Sur on this luxury cruise around the Galápagos

Luxury Galápagos Voyage: Ecuadorian Highlights & Archipelago Cruise - 7 Days

This weeklong Ecuador escape takes you to historic cities and biodiverse islands offering the best wildlife viewing on the planet. It begins in the capital of Quito with a tour of its well-preserved colonial streets, followed by a getaway to highland hot springs and ecological reserves. Then you're off to cruise around the Galápagos by luxury catamaran, spending time with iguanas, tortoises, and sea lions on the beaches of Santa Fé, San Cristóbal, Santa Cruz, and other highlight isles.

Escape to an eco-friendly luxury retreat with views across Isla Santa Cruz (photo courtesy of Pikaia Lodge)

Eco-Friendly Luxury in the Galapagos: Santa Cruz & Isabela Islands - 7 Days

Spend a week in the famous Galapágos archipelago on wildlife encounters and nature tours, keeping your footprint light with stays at stylish and eco-friendly luxury retreats. Upon arrival on Isla Santa Cruz, you'll hit the water on boat trips to uninhabited isles, fishing excursions, and snorkeling adventures. Hop over to Isla Isabela next for hikes to awe-inspiring landmarks, like the Sierra Negra volcano, and walks alongside exotic creatures like giant tortoises, penguins, iguanas, and much more.

Experience a taste of mainland Ecuador and the biodiverse wonders of the Galápagos on this romantic escape (photo courtesy of Finch Bay Galápagos)

Luxury & Romance in the Galápagos - 7 Days

An island getaway with that special someone is always a good idea—even better when the islands in question are the legendary Galápagos. Enjoy the romantic escape of a lifetime as you travel between highlight isles, staying in luxury accommodations the entire time. Between candlelit dinners and al fresco breakfasts, you'll kayak, hike, and spend time with animals like giant tortoises—plus, you'll get a taste of mainland Ecuador with cultural tours of Quito and a trip to the Andean highlands.

Stay in your own private villa on a sprawling estate in the Galápagos highlands

Luxury Quito & Galápagos Experience - 7 Days

Celebrate conservation and biodiversity on this weeklong escape that includes the best of the Ecuadorian capital and an introduction to the Galápagos archipelago. After a whirlwind tour of Quito's UNESCO-listed center, jet off to the island of Santa Cruz. Here, you'll spot exotic creatures on nature hikes, explore the rugged coast by kayak, witness baby tortoise hatchlings, enjoy relaxing spa treatments, and participate in a plant-a-tree conservation program from your base at a secluded luxury estate.

Spend two weeks cruising around the Galápagos by superyacht (photo courtesy of Aqua Mare)

Galápagos Grandeur: Explore the Archipelago by Luxury Yacht - 14 Days

Hit the open seas on a bucket-list luxury cruise around the Galápagos that lasts not one but two weeks. That's more than enough time to enjoy the highlights of these biodiverse isles, which inspired Darwin's theory of natural selection. Discover your inner naturalist as you spend time with sea lions and giant tortoises, spot exotic birds like cormorants and blue-footed boobies, walk with penguins and iguanas, snorkel alongside sea turtles, and hike to craters and other natural marvels.

Enjoy spending time with your family as you explore Los Túneles' scenic terrain, Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

2 Weeks in the Galápagos Islands - 5 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

Two weeks in the Galápagos Islands allow you to embark on the ultimate island-hopping family adventure, complete with kid-friendly hikes, kayaking trips, and snorkeling excursions. Or take a more relaxed approach and opt for a wildlife-focused cruise perfect for families with younger children. Those looking to mix in culture and history will love spending a week in Quito before heading to Isla Santa Cruz, while families who prefer keeping on the move will delight in an island-hopping experience.

Mother and two kids hiking on the Galápagos Islands

10 Days in the Galápagos Islands - 5 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days in the Galápagos Islands, you and your family can split your time between the beaches and coastlines of Isla Santa Cruz, Isla Isabela, and Isla San Cristóbal on a relaxed island-hopping family trip. Or opt for a city and nature tour, which includes four thrilling days in Quito. Adventurous families with older children will love packing in epic activities on a multi-island itinerary, while wildlife fanatics shouldn't miss time in the Amazon.

Meet the friendly locals when you arrive on Isla Santa Cruz

Ultimate Family Trip to the Galápagos: Santa Cruz, Isabela & San Cristóbal - 14 Days

Embark on the family adventure of a lifetime with this two-week, multi-island exploration of the Galápagos. Hop between the archipelago's three main islands, discovering the unique ecosystems of each with an itinerary of fun wildlife encounters, kid-friendly active excursions, and plenty of laid-back beach time. Kayak alongside friendly sea lions on Isla Santa Cruz, hike to volcanic craters and cycle the backroads of Isla Isabela, and snorkel through the underwater wonders of Isla San Cristóbal.

Take the kids snorkeling in the Galápagos Islands

1 Week in the Galápagos Islands - 5 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

With one week in the Galápagos Islands, you and the family can visit a mainland city and at least two islands. Active families will appreciate urban exploration in Quito and outdoor adventures, such as snorkeling at Los Túneles on Isla Santa Cruz and Isla Isabela. Those traveling with little ones or seeking a leisurely pace can opt for a relaxed trip on Isla Santa Cruz. Families looking for a boating holiday and eager to visit several islands, including Isla Genovesa and Isla Plaza Sur, should choose the cruise option.

The perfect escape, stroll the famous white sands in the Galápagos archipelago

Relaxed Family Trip to the Galápagos Islands: Santa Cruz, Isabela & San Cristóbal - 10 Days

Rally your mini explorers and head to the Galápagos for a leisurely-paced 10-day tour of three of the archipelago's best-loved islands. Start on Isla Santa Cruz, where the kids can get a primer on the archipelago at the Charles Darwin Research Center, come face-to-face with giant tortoises, and set sail to an uninhabited island. Hop over to Isla Isabela to snorkel with marine wildlife, and while away your days at the beach, then head to Isla San Cristóbal for more aquatic fun with a family kayaking adventure.

Hop between two islands as you explore the nature and wildlife of the Galápagos

Family Fun in Ecuador & the Galápagos - 14 Days

Make a dent in your family bucket list with this two-week trip that combines fun and relaxation in Ecuador with plenty of wildlife excursions and beach time in the Galápagos. Your mini conservationists will adore their voyage of discovery through treetop canopies, flamingo-filled lagoons, and sea lion-packed islands. Along the way, you'll learn the art of Ecuadorian cuisine, snorkel the archipelago's best spots, and relax in picture-perfect thermal pools.

Bike, snorkel, kayak, and hike your way around the Galápagos Islands

Galápagos Multi-Island Family Adventure - 14 Days

Take your family on a comprehensive tour of the Galápagos with this two-week adventure that spans three islands. Arrive on the Ecuadorian mainland and kick off your trip with a kid-friendly cooking class and a visit to the equator—then it's off to the islands! Tour Isla San Cristóbal via standup paddleboard, kayak around volcanic islets and bike along quiet backroads on Isla Isabela, and snorkel with colorful marine life and see giant tortoises and blue-footed on Isla Santa Cruz.

Cruise through the Galápagos Islands on this two-week family adventure

Family Cruise of the Galápagos Islands - 14 Days

This 14-day Galápagos family adventure sets off from Quito, Ecuador's historic, high-altitude capital. Enjoy a guided city tour and a day trip into the mystical Mindo Cloud Forest before flying to Isla Santa Cruz and boarding your cruise ship. Take excursions to Isla Isabela and Isla Rábida, swim and snorkel at the former pirate lair of Buccaneer Cove, and visit giant tortoises at the Charles Darwin Foundation—ending your tour back on the mainland with visits to Cotopaxi National Park and Laguna Quilotoa.

Explore the Galápagos Islands with your family

Galápagos Multi-Island Family Adventure - 10 Days

Explore the extraordinary ecosystems of three different islands on this 10-day, family-oriented Galápagos adventure. Start in mainland Quito to kick off your trip with a visit to the equator and a fun family cooking class. Then, it's off to Isla San Cristóbal for standup paddleboarding to the island's best beaches. Explore Isla Isabela by bike and kayak alongside its friendly seals, then hop over to Isla Santa Cruz to meet giant tortoises and snorkel with seahorses and schools of colorful fish.

Discover the underwater creatures of the Galápagos Islands like this sea turtle

Ecuador & the Galápagos Family Nature Tour - 10 Days

Experience the best of family-friendly Ecuador and the Galápagos with this 10-day trip that delivers an exhilarating few days in Quito before some much-needed downtime on the island of San Cristóbal. Starting in the historic capital, you'll zipline through a cloud forest and zoom up a volcano by cable car before flying to the Galápagos to make friends with the sea lions and tortoises. End your trip back on the mainland with a relaxing night at the hot springs of Papallacta.

Head to the Galápagos Islands for an unforgettable family adventure

Family Holiday in Quito & the Galápagos Islands - 14 Days

Want to take your school-aged kids on a family vacation that combines history, culture, wildlife, and a world-famous nature reserve? This two-week trip to Ecuador ticks all those boxes. Spend the first week in Quito, exploring its thermal pools, historical monuments, and local cuisine, then head to Santa Cruz, the central island of the Galápagos. Sail, snorkel, and swim your way through pristine waters and untouched islands as you and the kids discover this inspiring region and its wildlife for yourselves.

Kids will love seeing friendly wildlife of Isla San Cristóbal up close

Family Fun & Wildlife in the Galápagos: Quito & Isla San Cristóbal - 7 Days

Discover the famous flora and fauna of the Galápagos with this seven-day family trip that kicks off in the Ecuadorian capital of Quito. Explore the city's kid-friendly parks and cafés, then fly to San Cristóbal, the easternmost island in the UNESCO-listed archipelago. Here you'll experience the perfect mix of chilled beach time and aquatic adventures for all ages as you sunbathe, swim, and snorkel while getting up close and personal with the friendly local wildlife.

Meet friendly sea lions and snorkel with sea turtles on this family adventure to the Galápagos Islands

Galápagos Family Tour: Quito & Isla San Cristóbal - 10 Days

This 10-day family-friendly trip to the Galápagos Islands takes you from bustling city streets to peaceful beaches. Start in the Ecuadorian capital of Quito, exploring local culture and cuisine with a family cooking class and salsa dancing. Then, it's off to Isla San Cristóbal, where you'll greet curious sea lions, snorkel with colorful fish, and meet giant tortoises. Take a standup paddleboarding cruise along the coast, get creative at a family painting class, and head back to Quito in time to visit the interactive Yaku Water Museum.

Spot rare and endemic wildlife on this family trip to the Galápagos

Amazon & Galápagos Wildlife Adventure for Families - 10 Days

Delve into two of the most biodiverse places on earth on this 10-day, wildlife-filled family adventure. Start in the Ecuadorian capital of Quito, then head to a rainforest lodge deep in the Amazon to wake to the sounds of howler monkeys, explore winding rivers by canoe, and spot nocturnal animals on jungle walks. Then jet off to the Galápagos to snorkel alongside whitetip sharks and sea lions, meet giant tortoises, and learn about science and natural history at the Charles Darwin Research Station.

Father and daughter on white sandy beach in the Galapagos

Relaxed Family Trip to the Galápagos - 7 Days

Calling all wildlife and nature lovers! Experience the natural beauty of the Galápagos Islands with this gentle weeklong family trip to Isla Santa Cruz. From giant tortoises, playful sea lions, and adorable penguins to lava lizards, iguanas, and flamingoes, you and the kids will discover the archipelago's unique creatures as you explore the highlands and relax on pristine beaches in "the land that time forgot."

Explore the Galápagos with family-friendly snorkeling, kayaking, and boating adventures

Family-Friendly Galápagos - 7 Days

Experience the wonders of the Galápagos Islands on this active seven-day family adventure. Your tour starts in the Ecuadorian capital of Quito, where you'll take a deep dive into local culture and cuisine with a family cooking class. Then it's off to Isla Santa Cruz for visits with giant tortoises, sea lions, and the infamous blue-footed boobie! Walk among the natural beauty and wildlife of uninhabited islands, swim and snorkel with colorful fish at Los Túneles, and kayak to the breathtaking islets of Las Tintoreras.

Spend a morning on Isla Plaza Sur, known for its carpet of opuntia cacti

Quito & Galápagos Family Cruise - 7 Days

This incredible family adventure combines the oldest capital in South America with a cruise around the Galápagos Islands. You'll land first in Quito, with time to ride a cable car and step foot in both hemispheres. Then fly to the Galápagos, where you'll board a three-night cruise. Enjoy a range of kid-friendly excursions, like easy hikes, panga rides, and snorkeling, while looking for rare birds, sea lions, and other exotic (yet friendly) creatures. Return to Quito for some museum-hopping to finish this trip of a lifetime.

Dive into the clear waters of the Galápagos for family snorkeling adventures

Family Adventure in the Galápagos: Snorkeling, Kayaking & Hiking - 7 Days

Get ready for a week of adventure and discovery on this family-friendly expedition to the Galápagos. Explore the Ecuadorian capital of Quito, then jet off to Isla Santa Cruz to meet giant tortoises, explore the fun-filled exhibits of the Charles Darwin Research Center, and kayak alongside sea lions, marine iguanas, and friendly whitetip sharks. Hop over to Isla Isabela for a family hike up a crater volcano, and end the journey playing explorers as you sail to an uninhabited island and spot rare endemic wildlife.

Fly from Quito to the Galápagos island of San Cristóbal

Nature & Culture in Quito & the Galápagos Islands - 10 Days

Sample Ecuador's natural and cultural wonders on this 10-day trip. Begin in the capital, Quito, where you'll tour UNESCO-listed landmarks and take a cooking class with a local chef before fly to the world-famous Galápagos Islands. Here you'll spot iconic wildlife, from giant tortoises to sharks and albatross, as you hop from Isla San Cristóbal to Santa Cruz. Enjoy snorkeling, hikes, and standup paddleboarding along the way, and finish by touring a traditional coffee plantation.

Descend into Isla Isabela's Trillizos for a fun morning of rappelling

11 Days in the Galápagos Islands - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 11 days in the Galápagos Islands, the option is yours to opt for a land-based tour and island hop by speedboat or settle in for a cruise ship tour and sail your way around the untouched islands of the archipelago. Those looking to get their heart rate up will love an active adventure that includes rappelling, mountain biking, and scuba diving excursions, while those looking to squeeze in more culture will delight in time in Quito or Guayaquil at the start of the trip.

Discover the lava tunnels of Isla Isabela as you explore the Galápagos Islands

9 Days in the Galápagos Islands - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With nine days in the Galápagos Islands, you can split your time between Quito and Isla Santa Cruz on an ultimate highlights tour or seek out the archipelago's unique wildlife while basing yourself on Isla San Cristóbal and Isla Santa Cruz. Ocean enthusiasts will love a cruise ship-based tour where adventure and luxury merge, while those looking for a bit of culture, history, and nature will enjoy a well-rounded trip that includes a two-night stay in Quito.

See the dramatic red rock shores and flora of Isla Rábida in the Galápagos

13 Days in the Galápagos Islands - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 13 days in the Galápagos, you can visit several islands, plus the Amazon and Quito. Travelers focused only on the Galápagos can hit the highlights on Santa Cruz, Isabela, and San Cristóbal and then take day trips to nearby islands. First-timers keen to combine the Amazon and Galápagos can stay in Yasuní National Park and then visit two islands or stay on a boat for a chance to see more. Intrepid travelers should choose active itineraries that include rappeling and mountain biking in addition to watersports.

Boat to an uninhabited island, like Bartolomé, for hiking and swimming

Classic Galápagos Tour: San Cristóbal, Santa Cruz & Isabela - 8 Days

First-timers to the Galápagos Islands will love this amazing introduction to the distinct wildlife that can only be found on this archipelago off the coast of Ecuador. Over the course of eight days, you'll base yourself on three islands—each with its own scenery and highlights—partaking in boat tours, snorkeling excursions, volcano hikes, and encounters with friendly residents like giant tortoises and marine iguanas.

Drop anchor in the pristine waters off Isla Isabela

Ultimate Galápagos Cruise - 13 Days

This exciting, well-rounded cruise itinerary in the Galápagos is perfect for wildlife lovers who want to experience the exotic residents—and volcanic landscapes—of this stunning archipelago off the coast of Ecuador. In just under two weeks, you'll cruise to several islands to hike around and view a number of species like giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies. Of course, there will be plenty of time to relax, too, while swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing (likely with friendly sea lions nearby).

See humpback whales off the coast of Puerto López

Ecuador Wildlife Journey: Guayaquil, Puerto López & the Galápagos Islands - 13 Days

This 13-day wildlife-focused trip showcases the beaches and islands of Ecuador, including Los Frailes, Isla de la Plata, and the Galápagos Islands. Fly into colorful Guayaquil and tour the city, then move on to Puerto López for sunbathing, sailing, and whale watching. Next, head to Isla Santa Cruz, where you'll see giant tortoises and explore an uninhabited island. Hop to Isla Isabela to spot Humboldt penguins and hike a shield volcano, and finish with snorkeling and bird-watching on Isla San Cristóbal.

Cycle along the quiet backroads of the Galápagos

Outdoor Adventure in Southern Ecuador & the Galápagos Islands - 13 Days

See some of southern Ecuador's lesser-visited gems before jetting off to the Galápagos on this adventurous 13-day tour. Start amid the colonial splendor of Cuenca, and cut through the rugged grasslands and lagoons of El Cajas National Park to reach the coastal city of Guayaquil. Then it's on to the Galápagos, where you'll discover the islands of Santa Cruz and Isabela with an action-packed itinerary of snorkeling, kayaking, cycling, rappelling, and of course plenty of wildlife watching.

Relaxing Galápagos Adventure - 8 Days

This easygoing itinerary in the Galápagos Islands, specifically Isla San Cristóbal and Isla Santa Cruz, is by no means lacking in adventure. Over the course of eight days, you'll volunteer with locals, snorkel at Kicker Rock, and boat to Darwin Bay to see rare bird species. You'll also partake in light hiking, biking, and swimming, mixed in with plenty of free time to relax on glorious beaches—often accompanied by sea lions.

See the rare Galápagos penguin among other remarkable wildlife

Galápagos Snorkeling & Wildlife Tour: Isla Santa Cruz & Isla Isabela - 7 Days

Get to know the Galápagos' coastal and underwater worlds on this week-long, island-hopping trip. Follow the lands of the penguins, and delve into clear waters for thrilling snorkeling experiences with turtles, rays, reef sharks, and seals. With a series of small group tours and all transfers taken care of, all you need do is enjoy the splendor of one of Earth's most biodiverse destinations.

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