Galapagos Islands Vacation
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Galapagos Islands Cruises sea turtles swimming near rocks
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Galapagos Islands Vacation

Check out our carefully selected list of the Top 6 Galapagos Islands vacation ideas. Each tour and cruise itinerary provides travelers with a comprehensive experience of the Galapagos Islands. From snorkeling in biodiverse waters, spotting rare species, hiking alongside naturalist gudies, and studying the vast array of plants, a trip to the Galapagos Islands is a one-of-a-kind Ecuador adventure. Combine a Galapagos cruise with a trip to Quito for an itinerary full of nature and city highlights. Another popular combination is a Machu Picchu tourΒ with the Galapagos, on a Peru and Ecuador tour. Customize any of our Galapagos itineraries that allow you to fully discover the epic nature and beauty of this archipelago.

Update: Galapagos Covid-19 Travel – Ecuador is open for travel again!
Ecuador & The Galapagos Islands have reopened to tourists and we’re delighted to be planning trips again.
Read More βŒ„

Top 6 Galapagos Islands Tours


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Recommended Galapagos Cruises & Tour Packages

As the inspiration to Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution, the Galapagos Islands are teeming with incredibly unique flora and fauna. Explore the various volcanic islands and creatures while on our Luxury Galapagos Cruise and Ecuador Train Tour. This luxury tour provides travelers with a comprehensive look at the Galapagos Islands and Ecuador as a whole. With daily excursions to explore the various islands, visiting wildlife sanctuaries, research centers and trekking through out-of-this-world volcanic landscapes, there’s never a dull moment during this top Galapagos Cruise tour. Or consider the Galapagos Islands Legend Cruise, where travelers can tour around in style. This is a fairly large boat and has a spacious feel, including a roof-top lounge and bar. Travelers can choose from a variety of itineraries, and some cabins offer balconies, allowing guests to enjoy spectacular views from their room.

To experience the very best of South America, consider combining one of our Galapagos tours with Peru. Located just south of Ecuador, Peru makes for an ideal jumping base into the rest of South America. Explore the serene beauty of the islands and one of the modern wonders of the world, Machu Picchu, on our Galapagos Cruise and Machu Picchu Tour.

Custom Galapagos Islands Tours & Cruises

Our Galapagos vacation tours are completely customizable. Design and customize any of our Galapagos Island tours with one of our expert Travel Consultants. With our insider knowledge and your interests, we’ll craft the perfect Galapagos vacation package from time schedules, activities, and destinations.

An Alternative to Galapagos Islands Cruises

We highly recommend a Galapagos Islands cruise to our travelers. Though if you prefer land rather than water, you can opt for an β€œisland-hopping” adventure through the Galapagos Islands. Rather than taking a Galapagos Islands cruise, β€œisland-hopping” allows you to travel among the islands of the Galapagos by plane, and spend the night on the islands. Browse our Galapagos tours below, and contact our travel consultants if you are interested in an island-hopping tour of the Galapagos.

If you’re worried about getting seasick while aboard a Galapagos island cruise ship, or if you would just rather spend some more time on the islands themselves, an island-hopping expedition may be just the ticket for you. You can fly into San Cristobal Island and spend the night here, and then hop among other islands in boats each day. During each day, you’ll have opportunities for land- and water-based activities, such as hiking, bird-watching, snorkeling, and swimming. Spend each evening in little villages and port towns, such as Puerto Villamil.

Galapagos Islands Travel FAQ’s

Thinking about a Galapagos trip? Here’s a list of frequently asked questions we often hear from our guests. Visit ourΒ Galapagos Vacation PlanningΒ page for in-depth Galapagos travel tips.

Why visit Galapagos Islands?

Wildlife! The Galapagos Islands are one of the very best places in South America (and the world) to see wildlife and the animals there have little fear of humans making close encounters very easy. Visitors can see giant tortoises, sea lions, land and marine iguanas, blue footy boobies, dolphins and a lot more. Much of the wildlife is endemic to the islands or even to individual islands within the archipelago.

When is the best time to visit Galapagos?

The best time to visit the Galapagos Islands is at any time of the year. However, when considering the best time to visit the Galapagos, travelers should know that there are two distinct seasons: the cool and dry season from June to December and the warm and wet season from January to June. During the dry season, rainfall is infrequent and temperatures range from 15 to 27 degrees Celsius. Whereas, the wet season has increased rainfall and higher temperatures that range from 18 to 30 degrees Celsius. Snorkeling and marine exploration are best at this time. The waters are known to be more clear and warm, offering ideal conditions for divers.

While these two seasons vary in temperature and weather, the spectacular animal species of the archipelago are not migratory and can be spotted year-round. However, natural events, like the mating of land iguanas and hatching of sea turtles occur at different times in the year. Speak to an expert travel consultant for more information on when to travel for certain natural events.

Where are the Galapagos Islands?

You might be wondering, where are the Galapagos Islands located? They are located right off the coast of Ecuador!

Is it safe to travel to the Galapagos Islands?

It is very safe for you to visit the Galapagos Islands, it is not always safe for the animals to be visited by humans. So, please, be respectful and follow the rules your guides will tell you! Remember, this is not a zoo, this is nature. And nobody cleans up after you!

What is the best way to visit the Galapagos?

The best way to visit is to go on a cruise. That way you can visit several islands, which can be very different from one another. On any cruise, you’ll get an excellent variety and see a wide range of wildlife.

How long do you need in the Galapagos Islands?

We recommend spending at least 4 days on a cruise in the Galapagos in order to get a good understanding of the Galapagos.

What are the best islands to visit?

With 19 islands, there is so much to see and do. To narrow things down, we have outlined our top island choices to experience the best of the Galapagos.

  1. San Cristobal Island. This island is one of the few to boats to a small town and is a great central point for information, activities, and of course, nature. Here you can swim at white coral beaches, scuba dive, and have access to fantastic bird watching opportunities. With two species, in particular, calling the island home, the Chatham Mockingbird and the blue-footed booby.
  2. EspaΓ±ola Island. As the oldest island formed approximately 4 million years ago, and one of the most densely populated for wildlife, EspaΓ±ola is probably your best chance at getting up close with nature. Species that call the island home include the blue-footed booby colonies, sea lions, and marine iguanas.
  3. Floreana Island. This island is famous for its flora. Once populated by pirates, the ecosystem was changed drastically by the influence of humans and non-native plants and animals. Today it serves as a great example of why its location was essential in creating its ecosystem. Here, you can spot dolphins, lounge at crystal blue beaches and explore the various cacti and bushes that are unique to the island.

Remember that all the islands have their distinctive qualities, whether it’s the terrain, viewpoints or wildlife that inhabit it. With a customized, preplanned cruise, you’re sure to see everything that interest you with help from expert leading guides.

What animals can you see on the Galapagos Islands?

With hundreds of rare species, the islands are an incredible look into a special ecosystem. The more famous species include the giant iguana and land iguana, penguins and the Galapagos tortoise. There are also multiple species of sea lions, stingrays, sharks, octopi, barracudas, sea turtles, pink flamingos, dolphins, manta rays and sea horses. You will be continually occupied, as you spot these creatures, from big to small, in their natural habitat.

What can you do in the Galapagos Islands?

With diverse wildlife, scenic beaches, and rare volcanic topography, the Galapagos Islands are perfect for nature lovers. You can study the vast array of plants and animals close-up while snorkeling, hiking, and relaxing on the white-sand beaches. There is also a variety of science and nature tours, where you can learn what inspired Charles Darwin’s Theory of Natural Selection.

What are the Galapagos Islands known for?

Due to isolation and volcanic activity, the islands are hosts to extremely unique and diverse flora and fauna – the inspiration for research Charles Darwin’s Theory of Natural Selection. With a small, eco-conscious local population and controlled tourism, the islands are an oasis away from people and praised for their untouched beauty. Anywhere you look, from the crystal blue ocean to the vibrant Scalesia trees, you’ll witness wildlife in its natural habitat. It is not uncommon to spot science and nature lovers captivated by the rare species, like the Giant tortoise or land iguana. The area also offers stunning island scenery and trails to beaches, coves, red cliffs and more, all of which we’ll plan for you based on your interests.

How much does it cost to visit the Galapagos Islands?

Remotely situated off the coast of Ecuador and home to some of the world’s rarest species, entering the islands is not a simple flight away, which is why our travel experts handle all the planning. Flights to the Galapagos Islands fly only from Ecuador, the sole entry point. Therefore, we recommend a variety of cruises. Prices fluctuate depending on the season, however, with our recommendations and all-inclusive tours, you’re guaranteed an authentic experience.
Map of your Galapagos Islands Cruises

5 Best Galapagos Islands Vacation for 2024


Tour Name Price Duration Description
Galapagos Island Coral Cruises from $1824 8 Days Discover the Galapagos Islands and its amazing wildlife and beautiful landscapes on the Coral I and Coral II cruise ships. Note: The itinerary is f...
Galapagos Cruise and Machu Picchu from $4791 12 Days The Galapagos Islands and Machu Picchu are two of the must-see highlights in South America. Lucky for you, Galapagos and Machu Picchu tours are just...

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Choose Amazon destinations (optional)
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Choose Brazil destinations (opt)
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Choose Paraguay & Uruguay destinations (optional)
Choose Patagonia & Antarctica destinations (optional)
Choose Peru destinations (optional)
Choose Guianas destinations (optional)
Choose Interests
Choose activities
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When would you like to go?
for
How many travelers?
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age groups
Review my trip summary
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who

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