Galapagos Islands Travel Insights

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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."

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

Outdoor Thrills & Rare Wildlife Experiences in the Galápagos- 12 Days

Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, this 12-day adventure in the Galápagos features hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting—plus mountain biking, a diving lesson, standup paddleboarding, and multiple snorkeling excursions. You'll sleep in hotels on three islands, and visit a fourth island on a boat trip, in between day trips and activities around the archipelago's spectacular landscapes and animal habitats.

Snorkel, Cycle, Kayak & Hike in the Galápagos Islands - 12 Days

Experience plenty of outdoor thrills on this active 12-day journey around the Galápagos. You'll base yourself on two islands—Isla Isabela and Isla Santa Cruz—as you explore the archipelago's most beautiful landscapes. Hike around a volcano, rappel into a cave, learn to surf, snorkel with sea lions, ride a bicycle on quiet island trails, and treat yourself to the Galápagos' original craft beer after touring the brewery.

6 Days in the Galápagos Islands - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With six days in the Galápagos Islands, the choice is yours to base yourself on land and explore the towns and volcanic landscapes of Isla San Cristóbal and Isla Santa Cruz, or opt for a cruise ship-based trip and wake up to full days spent between sailing and exploring remote islands and picturesque bays. Those looking to add in some of Ecuador's impressive history can opt for an itinerary that includes a night in Quito, while those who prefer animals to bustling towns will love a multi-island wildlife cruise.

Active Galápagos Islands Adventure: Isla Santa Cruz & Isla Isabela – 7 Days

Hike, bike, and paddle your way around the Galápagos Islands on this active, seven-day tour. Hop between Isla Santa Cruz and Isla Isabela, where you'll trek to the top of the mighty Sierra Negra and Chico volcanoes, cycle along seal-spotted coastlines, and explore lava tunnels. Watery adventures include snorkeling among rays, turtles, and sharks and kayaking through the crystal-clear waters surrounding the Tintoreras Islet.

Natural History & Wildlife of the Galápagos – 7 Days

Discover the natural history and exotic wildlife of the Galápagos Islands on this seven-day highlights tour. Follow in Charles Darwin's footsteps, observing giant tortoises and rare bird species in the wild and sailing to uninhabited islets where you'll snorkel among colorful marine life and enjoy standup paddleboard adventures. Along the way, you'll learn about the islands' history and biodiversity at the Galápagos Interpretation Center and the world-famous Charles Darwin Research Station.

A Week of Wildlife Encounters & Outdoor Adventures in the Galápagos - 7 Days

Hike around an island populated by blue-footed boobies, then dive beneath the surface of the ocean to swim with sea lions and pufferfish: this week-long itinerary in the Galápagos is filled with wildlife and outdoor activities. You'll explore Isla Santa Cruz and Isla San Cristóbal, as well as a pair of uninhabited islands, enjoying boat tours, a snorkeling excursion, and guided nature hikes along the way.

Explore Two Islands in the Galápagos: San Cristobál & Santa Cruz - 9 Days

Discover two large islands in the Galápagos archipelago—and enjoy day trips to smaller islands—on this land-based itinerary. Over nine days, you'll base yourself on Isla San Cristóbal and Isla Santa Cruz, taking time to hike, snorkel, kayak, interact with giant tortoises, and look for wildlife with expert naturalist guides. Venture to a pair of uninhabited islands on shorter boating excursions before the trip comes to an end.

Active Wildlife Adventure in the Galápagos Islands - 10 Days

If you've ever dreamed of exploring the Galápagos with a healthy dose of outdoor activity, then this is the trip for you. Over the course of 10 days, you'll speedboat between several islands (some inhabited, some not) while taking guided excursions that include hiking to a dormant volcano, biking in a nature reserve, and kayaking in pristine turquoise waters—all the while looking for exotic species that you'll only find on this stunning archipelago off the coast of Ecuador.

Galápagos Active Adventure on Isla Santa Cruz & Isla Isabela - 7 Days

This exciting week-long adventure in the Galápagos is perfect for travelers who want some moderate activity. You'll spend most of your time on two key islands in the archipelago—Santa Cruz and Isabela—partaking in hiking, biking, kayaking, and snorkeling while observing a wide range of landscapes from active volcanoes to white-sand beaches. Of course, this being the Galápagos, every activity involves looking for exotic species like whitetip reef sharks, penguins, and giant tortoises.

Quito & Galápagos Islands Cruise Adventure - 11 Days

This fast-paced 11-day itinerary is perfect for travelers who want to make the most of their trip to the Galápagos. The adventure starts in Quito, where you'll explore the colonial architecture of its UNESCO-listed historic center, followed by a visit to a famous South American market. Then hop on a plane and board your cruise to experience 10 of the archipelago's extraordinary volcanic islands and their friendly residents, like blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, and giant tortoises.

Active Adventure in the Galápagos Islands - 11 Days

This action-packed 11-day tour in the Galápagos is not for the faint of heart. You'll speedboat and fly between three islands—Santa Cruz, Isabela, and San Cristóbal—while joining guided excursions like hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving (for those who are certified), and even rappelling in a dormant volcano. You'll also be on the prowl for friendly residents, like jolly sea lions and giant tortoises, adding to the fun of this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

12 Days in the Galápagos Islands - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 12 days in the Galápagos Islands, you can embark on a highlights tour to explore the best landscapes of Quito, Isla Santa Cruz, and Isla San Cristóbal, or pack in more activities by including trips to Isla Floreana and Isla Española. Wildlife enthusiasts will love spending an uninterrupted 12 days in the Galápagos, sailing to uninhabited islands and hiking volcanic landscapes. At the same time, those looking to embrace Ecuador's warm culture can opt for a trip that includes overnights in Otavalo and Quito.

8 Days in the Galápagos Islands - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With eight days in the Galápagos, you can visit two or three destinations. First-timers keen on culture should include a stay in Quito, while those that want to make the most of their time in the Galápagos should choose the three-island itinerary. The two-island itineraries offer a slower pace—families will appreciate the variety, including standup paddleboarding, on the Best of the Galápagos, and hikers and coffee lovers will enjoy hiking Sierra Negra and visiting a coffee farm on the Jewels of the Galápagos.

Island-Hopping Wildlife Cruise in the Galápagos - 9 Days

This incredible cruise itinerary explores countless species of distinct wildlife—and marine life—in the Galápagos Islands. Over the course of nine days, you and your nature guide will hop between the best places on this famous volcanic archipelago and meet rare birds, giant tortoises, marine iguanas, jolly sea lions, and friendly sharks. You'll also take part in hiking, kayaking, swimming, and snorkeling as well as relaxing on soft coral sand for the ultimate feel-good getaway.

Luxury Cruise Adventure in the Galápagos Islands - 9 Days

This is the ultimate luxury cruise for travelers who are drawn to the exotic landscapes and wildlife of the Galápagos Islands. After a night in Ecuador's high-altitude capital of Quito, you'll jet off to the volcanic archipelago in the Pacific Ocean. Spend a week on a yacht cruise visiting a number of islands —including lesser-visited ones—while taking part in various activities that include fun encounters with rare bird species, vibrant marine life, and giant tortoises.

History, Wildlife & Active Adventure in the Galápagos Islands- 9 Days

This nine-day island-hopping adventure in the Galápagos is perfect for well-rounded travelers interested in a mix of activity, history, and wildlife. It begins on Isla San Cristóbal, where you'll meet sea lions and take a snorkeling excursion at Kicker Rock. Then, speedboat to Isla Santa Cruz to meet giant tortoises, kayak among marine life, and visit lesser-known islands with pirate caves and untouched natural habitats.

Multi-Island Wildlife Cruise in the Galápagos - 6 Days

This once-in-a-lifetime cruise in the Galápagos Islands is made for nature lovers. In less than a week, you'll visit eight islands on this volcanic archipelago off the coast of Ecuador that became a major turning point in the theory of evolution. Hike, swim, and snorkel as your guide shows you rare bird species, hybrid iguanas, exotic marine life, and giant tortoises in their natural habitat for the ultimate wildlife adventure.

Ecuadorian Amazon to the Galápagos Adventure - 13 Days

Witness untouched nature and extraordinary wildlife on this epic 13-day journey from the wilds of the Ecuadorian Amazon to the uninhabited shores of the Galápagos. Begin deep in Yasuní National Park, where you'll settle into a rainforest lodge and spend your days learning about Indigenous customs, spotting exotic birds, and paddling along the Río Napo. Then it's off to the Galápagos to hop between the islands of San Cristóbal and Santa Cruz. Snorkel, kayak, and hike your way through one of the world's most remarkable ecosystems as you pose with marine iguanas, sea lions, and giant tortoises.

Wildlife Cruise Adventure in the Galápagos Islands - 6 Days

This is your chance to experience a "boatload" of distinct wildlife in the Galápagos Islands during a memorable cruise adventure. In less than a week, you'll travel around the archipelago on a yacht—stopping at a number of beautiful islands for land- and water-based activities led by a naturalist guide. Hike through unique vegetation to meet giant tortoises, snorkel with sea lions and tropical fish, and look for blue-footed boobies, waved albatrosses, and bright-pink flamingoes in the wild.

Biking, Kayaking & Snorkeling in the Galápagos Islands - 6 Days

This exciting, active tour gets you to two of the Galápagos' most famous volcanic islands in less than a week. You'll start on Isla Santa Cruz for kayaking, biking, and boat tours to meet friendly creatures. Then speedboat to Isla San Cristóbal—Charles Darwin's first point of discovery in 1835—for a full-day snorkeling adventure and more fun encounters with exotic wildlife.

Ecuador's Culture & Nature: Quito, Otavalo & the Galápagos - 12 Days

On this 12-day Ecuadorian adventure, you'll start with a dose of culture in Quito and a glimpse of the Andean highlands in Otavalo, then jet off to the Galápagos for rare wildlife and stunning scenery. Sandy beaches and curious penguins await on Isla Santa Cruz, where you'll explore its coast by bike and discover remote, uninhabited islands by yacht. Speedboat off to Isla Isabela for snorkeling and kayaking, then return to Santa Cruz to mingle with giant tortoises and learn about their habitat.

Explore the Amazon & Galápagos Islands - 12 Days

Split your time between the Amazon and Galápagos Islands with this adventurous 12-day tour. The trip starts in Ecuador's capital, Quito, where you'll transfer to a lodge in the Amazon, partly by canoe, for several days of guided activities in the rainforest. Then catch a flight to the Galápagos and experience several islands and their unique inhabitants on volcanic land and underwater with a scuba diving course. Spend a day volunteering in a local village on Isla San Cristóbal to round out this distinct itinerary.