Kimkim Trip Reviews for Galapagos Islands

We weren't able to spend much time at Toruga Bay.

Great price; great staff...everyone was very pleased. So much better than the big cruise ships.

The lodge is amazing, the staff are attentive and they go out of their way to make sure you have a good time. I can't believe Leonardo, our guide. He worked tireless hours and showed us around and helped the servers and was all around amazing. Ramona (their adopted pet woolly monkey) is the star of the resort. She's extremely sweet and cuddly and so much fun. The guests were also quite wonderful. Many were locals and we had a great time with them. The activities they had were fun and the place was completely relaxed and laid back. Totally recommend for a lovely time.

Darwin, our tour guide, was absolutely amazing. You can tell he was very passionate about the wildlife and his excitement was contagious. He was very knowledgeable about the different species of birds and sea life we encountered and was able to answer all our questions. Moreover he was also a great photographer and got a photo of us both in mid air on the first shot. Truly an unforgettable adventure. I can't believe we also got to see a sea horse!

This was the absolute most amazing dive we've ever done. In speaking with a dive master on the boat who has dove when areas around the world, he mentioned the Galapagos was his number one. Just in our first dive, we saw everything from eagle rays, to white tipped sharks, to a school of hammerheads, and even a bait ball! It was truly an incredible adventure. The crew was also fun and passionate about their work. You can tell they love what they do and they love showing people what they do. Would definitely dive with Galadiscovery again!

This ship and the journey on it made for a fabulous week. The ship was a nicer category of vessel than we'd anticipated, and the crew on board were friendly and willing to please. The food was delicious, with great variety. For any special dietary requirements, they were quick to accomodate. Our Naturalist guide, Maria, was AMAZING. She totally made the trip and because of her knowledge and planning, we saw so many amazing and rare wildlife sites and experiences. She was also so willing to chat about the region, astronomy... and just about anything else we might have asked her about. She helped out with anything that came up, and connected a number of people on the ship (my party included) to other guides and experiences for the upcoming parts of our travels. The one caution I'd offer other travelers, is to potentially avoid the split itineraries on this ship. We were on the boat for 7 nights, which was a combination of the 4 night and 3 night eastern cruise. We did find that this many nights in a small geography began to feel a little repetitive, and the feeling was exacerbated by the change in passengers. With new people on board partway through our trip, the staff and guide had to repeat things the existing guests already knew, and spend more time spotting and watching animals that the guests who had been on since the beginning of the week had seen plenty of. It we had to do this over, we'd have done the 4 night cruise and then spent 2-3 nights on Isabella; or, considered a one week itinerary that carried the same passengers and guide throughout. Overall though, we were so happy with our time on the Natural Paradise and a huge thanks to the crew and guide.

The Charles Darwin research station was a fun and interesting stop. Our guide walked us through the various stages of breeding and species of tortoises on site. It was very cool! We also enjoyed watching the saddle-domed turtles and learning about Solitario Jorge. Definitely an interesting stop for travelers wanting to know more about evolution and the foundation of what makes the Galapagos so fascinating.

Great hotel to overnight at on way to and way back from the Galapagos.

Our favorite hotel of the trip.

This hotel is interesting because it is built into the mangroves. You can easily walk to the main strip or to the Darwin Center. And it is quieter because it isn't in the center of the action, which I liked. But I didn't really love that there wasn't really a great place for us to hang out. There's the tiny area where they serve breakfast with one couch and two chairs where you can see all the marine animals right there. And there's a little area on the upper level with a hammock. But not much more. The breakfast isn't terrific here but it is adequate. No amenities. Was our least favorite of the hotels. Much preferred Golden Bay in San Cristobal and The Albermarle in Isabella (which was beachfront and had a pool and a nice area to hang out for the kids.) Unsure if there are better options on the waterfront for families.

Snorkeling at La Loberia kicked off our trip and it was amazing.

Great activity. The snorkel is the best part.

This was our least favorite activity of the trip. I think we booked it instead of the volcano because I didn't think my kids would be up for a long, hot hike around the crater. But note this is not a chill SUP like the photo shows. You should have some SUP experience for this two-hour SUP into a strong current. Ended up kayaking with the girls.

We had seen so much good marine wildlife in San Cristobal and Isabella that this kayak was a bit of a letdown. But we really, really enjoyed snorkeling with the marine iguanas in an adjacent area. My husband was ecstatic at this part. (Rare to get to be in the water with the swimming iguanas.) And the big beach is gorgeous.

This is a complicated one to review. It is three hours on a boat there and three hours on a boat back and you have to leave at 5:45 a.m. This is really to get to see the scenery and a chance to see the penguins. (But if you go to Isabela Island you see more penguins.) I was anxious about the boat because we did an activity called San Cristobal 360 with the roughest boat ride of our lives. This boat ride, like Alvaro assured me, was nothing like that. It was relaxing and we were able to pass the time resting, sleeping and enjoying the boat. The crew was great and the chef even prepared omelettes for us when we didn't want the fish they were serving. My husband had an amazing experience swimming with a penguin that he said was the highlight of the trip for him -- even with three scuba dives and endless other snorkels.

This was a trip highlight. We loved walking around the ranch and seeing the giant tortoises. Lunch was amazing too.

You need to have paddle boarding experience to complete this activity. We had to switch to a kayak on the day.

Comfortable rooms with beautiful sea view. We saw lots of pelicans, blue footed boobies from our balcony.

Our guide Vivianta was by far the most knowledgeable guide we had on the entire trip. She was enthusiastic about showing us the highlands and sharing her personal experiences too.

We got really lucky and visited North Seymour. It was a fascinating land with several blue footed boobies, frigate birds and land iguanas.

It has A/C, and it is close to the water.

This property is beautiful, small and the staff were excellent. It is about a 8 minute walk to the main street that leads to the beautiful lagoon area where you can see sea lions and juvenile sharks each evening.

This property was right opposite the beach! It's a gorgeous beach, where I observed hundreds of pelicans in the morning and other species of sea birds. In addition, it was near the Pink Iguana bar/hostel that had hundreds of marine iguana that were easy to observe!! It's a gorgeous location. It is close to the downtown area as well, about 5 min walk right down the street.

This was EPIC, a dream come true. There was nothing more exciting than observing the largest tortoises in the world, especially during lunch, what a view!!! My guide was excellent. She was very knowledgeable about the area, and brought me to the best location to view the Galapagos Tortoises. The tour of the Charles Darwin Station was EXCELLENT. I happened to arrive right at the time of feeding the baby tortoises, and adults too, so they were very active! Just one of many lucky situations for me during my Ecuador trip.

Nice beach front. Very comfortable Bed and nice toilet and Towels.

Family run. Very interesting local breakfast. We love it. We had a nice room at the very top floor. Rooms are a little dated, but very clean and comfy nonetheless.

Beds and room was comfy. Nice view. Best thing about this hotel is the security, esp with a hotel staff at the front desk all the time and a lock on the main door. We felt very safe and secure.

Best view and Best Snorkeling trip of all in Galapagos. Calm waters. A must see. The local Guide, Darwin was amazing. He helped one of my family members overcome him fear of water and we had a great snorkeling session.

Beautiful island. We had such a wonderful boat ride with very delicious food on board. But do note that EACH way (to and from) is 3+ hours.

Really nice beach and snorkel. But the waters can be a little rough.

Quick look around. The middle of the world complex/tourist site is a must see. Different from the other cities we have seen, We learnt a lot.

Taxi came late. They activated the backup driver, who drove very fast from hotel to ferry terminal where we took the ferry to Baltra island. But we made it :)

Love the big tortoise. Very good lunch at Reserve.

Make sure you go to Darwin Bay.. Nice little place

We changed our journey a little as we had enough beach and snorkeling. Went to see the Twins instead. The guide was very flexible and suited our requests.

Nestled deep within the enchanting embrace of the Amazon Rainforest, the Napo Cultural Center stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of indigenous culture and the awe-inspiring biodiversity that defines the lungs of our planet. My recent visit to this extraordinary destination was nothing short of magical, leaving me with memories that will undoubtedly last a lifetime. From the moment I arrived, the warm and genuine hospitality of the Kichwa Añangu community enveloped me, creating an immediate sense of connection with the people and the land. The eco-friendly lodges seamlessly blend with the lush surroundings, offering a perfect balance of comfort and immersion in nature. Waking up to the symphony of exotic birds and the vibrant hues of the sunrise over the Napo River is an experience that transcends words. The guided tours provided an invaluable insight into the intricate web of life within the Amazon Rainforest. Knowledgeable local guides, who are deeply connected to their ancestral lands, shared their wisdom about the flora and fauna, medicinal plants, and the delicate ecological balance that sustains this unparalleled ecosystem. The ethereal beauty of the jungle unfolded before my eyes, with every step revealing a new wonder. One highlight of my stay was a visit to the parrot clay licks, a spectacle that can only be described as a vibrant, living canvas. The sight of brilliantly colored parrots and macaws gathering to feed was a breathtaking display of nature's artistry. Additionally, a canoe ride along the Napo River offered a serene and intimate encounter with the heart of the rainforest, where the interconnectedness of the flora and fauna became abundantly clear.

Words cannot describe the beauty of this beach and the location of this hotel. We were surrounded by pristine beach and blue footed bobbies the whole time!

Amazing location!

Exploring the vibrant city of Quito is an enchanting journey that seamlessly blends history, culture, and a touch of scientific wonder. My recent visit to the Equator Museum and Mitad del Mundo provided a captivating experience that left me with a deep appreciation for this Ecuadorian gem. The day began with a stroll through the heart of Quito, where the city's rich colonial history unfolded before my eyes. The well-preserved architecture, cobblestone streets, and ornate churches created a captivating atmosphere that transported me to another era. The blend of Spanish, Moorish, and indigenous influences is evident in every corner, making Quito's Old Town a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a true testament to the city's cultural richness. My excitement heightened as I approached the Equator Museum, a place where science and culture converge. The museum offers a fascinating insight into the equatorial line, showcasing the efforts of scientists who meticulously mapped the Earth's equator. Engaging exhibits presented the unique challenges faced at the equator and the profound impact on local cultures. The interactive displays made learning fun and accessible, catering to visitors of all ages. The day concluded with a breathtaking panoramic view of Quito from the top of the Mitad del Mundo monument. The sprawling city below, surrounded by lush greenery and crowned by the Pichincha Volcano, showcased the natural beauty that complements Quito's rich cultural tapestry. In retrospect, touring the city of Quito and experiencing the Equator Museum and Mitad del Mundo was an unforgettable adventure that seamlessly blended education, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a science buff, or simply a traveler seeking a unique experience, Quito's equatorial charm promises to leave an indelible mark on your heart and mind.

Our trip was cut short due to a plane delay so we did not visit the Charles Darwin Research Center. However, we did make it the Highlands and toured Rancho Primicias, a privately owned giant tortoise reserve. Located on Santa Cruz Island, Rancho Primicias is a sprawling sanctuary for the iconic Galápagos giant tortoises. The moment I entered the reserve, I was greeted by the gentle giants peacefully grazing amid lush greenery. The park's well-maintained trails and informative signage allowed me to navigate the area effortlessly while learning about the fascinating natural history of these ancient creatures. The highlight of Rancho Primicias was undoubtedly the close encounters with the giant tortoises. Observing them in their natural habitat, meandering gracefully through the landscape, was a truly humbling experience. The reserve's commitment to conservation is evident, with efforts to protect and preserve these magnificent creatures for generations to come.

Visiting Tortuga Bay and indulging in the Santa Cruz Island Bay Tour was an unparalleled experience that surpassed all expectations. The Galápagos Islands are renowned for their unique biodiversity, and this journey offered a front-row seat to the marvels of nature. Tortuga Bay, accessible by a scenic walking trail, is a pristine stretch of white sand that unfolds like a postcard-perfect paradise. Marine Iguanas were EVEYWHERE! And it was such a magnificent sight! Kayaking was also amazing and we saw many turtles and white tip sharks. The Santa Cruz Island Bay Tour was a comprehensive exploration of the surrounding waters, showcasing the diverse ecosystems of the Galápagos. The naturalist guide on board shared insightful information about the islands, wildlife, and conservation efforts, adding depth to the experience.

Another amazing tour of the island. We saw so many amazing creatures!

The Napo Cultural Center exceeded any expectation I thought I had. My time at the Napo Cultural Center was an immersive, eye-opening, and deeply enriching experience. It is not merely a destination; it's a journey into the soul of the Amazon, where the spirit of nature and indigenous culture converge to create an unforgettable tapestry of wonder. For those seeking an authentic and transformative adventure, the Napo Cultural Center is an absolute must-visit.

Such a wonderful experience! Visiting the Galápagos Islands is a journey into a world unlike any other, and hiking Sierra Negra Volcano on Isabela Island is an absolute must for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. My recent trek to the summit left me in awe of the island's unique geological wonders and unparalleled natural beauty. The highlight of the hike undoubtedly lies in the expansive views of the Sierra Negra Caldera. The vastness of the volcanic crater is nothing short of breathtaking, offering a surreal panorama of otherworldly landscapes. The contrast of the rugged volcanic terrain against the azure sky and the surrounding ocean is a visual feast that stays etched in memory. The trail itself, while not overly strenuous, presents a good challenge. Hiking boots are a must, as the terrain can be uneven, and the path may transition from dusty to muddy. The journey provides an intimate experience with the island's unique flora and fauna, including the chance to spot giant tortoises and the iconic Galápagos finches.

Visiting the Interpretation Center and Tijeretas Hill on San Cristobal Island was an unforgettable experience that seamlessly blended educational insights into the Galápagos' unique ecosystem with breathtaking natural beauty. The Interpretation Center served as an exceptional starting point for our journey, offering a comprehensive overview of the archipelago's formation, evolution, and the ongoing conservation efforts. The exhibits were informative and engaging, providing a deeper understanding of the delicate balance between the flora and fauna that make the Galápagos Islands a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stepping outside, we made our way to Tijeretas Hill, a short but invigorating hike that rewarded us with panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The trail was well-maintained, featuring endemic vegetation and occasional encounters with curious wildlife, such as Darwin's finches. As we ascended, the mesmerizing vistas of the coastline and turquoise waters unfolded, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. The strategically placed viewpoints allowed us to witness the convergence of two ocean currents, creating a rich feeding ground for marine life. Snorkeling off the nearby cove provided an opportunity to explore the underwater wonders, from colorful reef fish to playful sea lions. In conclusion, a visit to the Interpretation Center and Tijeretas Hill on San Cristobal Island is a must for anyone seeking a harmonious blend of environmental education, stunning landscapes, and an intimate encounter with the unique biodiversity that defines the Galápagos Islands. This excursion left us with a profound appreciation for the delicate balance of nature and a commitment to preserving this extraordinary ecosystem for future generations.

This was the most amazing tour so far! We were taken around the island and were able to snorkel 3 times. We saw eagle rays, sea turtles, sharks and so much more. This is a definite must do trip!

Nestled within the captivating embrace of the Galápagos Islands, El Junco Lagoon, Galapaguera Colorado Hill, and Puerto Chino Beach collectively offer a day of awe-inspiring natural beauty and unique wildlife encounters. Our visit to this trio of destinations proved to be a journey of ecological discovery and scenic splendor. Unfortunately, the weather did not cooperate for us when visiting El Junco Lagoon so we did not see much more than fog and mist. It was still a fun little hike to the top however. Our next stop was Galapaguera Colorado Hill, a sanctuary for giant tortoises. The conservation efforts here are commendable, and the informative guides shed light on the importance of preserving these magnificent creatures. We were fortunate to witness these gentle giants in their natural habitat, plodding gracefully through the highland terrain. The well-maintained trails and interpretive signs enhanced our understanding of the Galápagos' delicate ecosystem. The sheer proximity to these ancient giants, coupled with the dedication to conservation, earned Galapaguera Colorado Hill a well-deserved five-star rating. Our day reached its zenith at the pristine Puerto Chino Beach, a hidden gem on San Cristóbal Island. The ivory sands stretched beneath a cloudless sky, and the azure waters beckoned for a refreshing dip. The beach's remote location ensured a serene atmosphere, interrupted only by the gentle lapping of waves against the shore. The resident sea lions and marine iguanas added a delightful touch to the idyllic scene. Snorkeling along the rocky outcrops provided an opportunity to explore the vibrant underwater world, teeming with diverse marine life. Puerto Chino Beach's unspoiled beauty and rich biodiversity easily earned it a five-star rating. In conclusion, a day spent exploring El Junco Lagoon, Galapaguera Colorado Hill, and Puerto Chino Beach is a symphony of diverse ecosystems and unforgettable encounters with the Galápagos' unique flora and fauna. While El Junco Lagoon presented a mystical start to the day, the giant tortoises of Galapaguera Colorado Hill and the pristine beauty of Puerto Chino Beach left us with lasting memories of the unparalleled wonders of the Galápagos Islands.

We only had a few hours before our flight but spent the morning watching the sea lions. It was an amazing last morning!

The breakfast was incredible. A sampling of just about every type of Ecuadoran food imaginable. I wish I had all day to just hang out and eat!

The staff was super friendly and helpful. Loved the quaintness of the hotel. rooms were clean and cozy with a great patio overlooking the water. We would definitely stay here again.

This might just be the coolest hotel I've ever stayed in. I loved our ocean front room, we were beach level and could see the ocean from our sliding glass doors. Staff was super kind and rooms were kept clean and well-supplied. The character of this hotel and its location were outstanding. Would definitely stay here again.

The room was spacious and clean. The roof top patio was great and nice view. A good bagged breakfast and both hot and cold drinking water available all the time. Very nice leased with this hotel .

The facility is lovely - nice pool area and bar. The room was clean and comfortable. The breakfast was amazing and substantial. The breakfast servers were so nice as were the front desk people.

My diving experience was exhilarating and beyond belief. Thanks to the dive master for taking good care of us (3 divers at different skill levels) and showing us the best of Galápagos and kicker rock had to offer . I felt safe and enjoyed every moment of my diving experience. In addition, I got so many amazing underwater photos and videos which I will alway cherish and remember.

North Seymour was great! Loved every single moment of my hike on this island .