Galapagos Islands Tours & Vacations
Step into an isolated world. See giant tortoises roaming and unforgettable landscapes unfurl before your very eyes.
Inquisitive sea lions and spiky marine iguanas breach and bask between island and shore. Friendly hammerhead sharks patrol the depths and blue-footed boobies cut through the sky. Come with us on our Galapagos Islands tours & holidays and observe the local wildlife in the same, untouched way Charles Darwin did hundreds of years ago. Nowadays, these Ecuadorian islands host a steady stream of modern-day explorers from animal-seekers who long for face-to-face encounters to sun-chasers itching to relax on a pristine beach or two. Embark on your own adventure as you wander from isla to isla, soak in crystal-clear waters, traverse volcanic landscapes, and spot animals you've only ever seen pictures of . To be honest, there's simply no place on Earth quite like the Galapagos.
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Galapagos Islands highlights
Transport in the galapagos islands.
Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.Depending on which trip you're on while in the Galapagos Islands, you may find yourself on:
Galapagos Islands tour reviews
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Galapagos Islands at a glance
Capital city.
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno
US dollar (USD)
(GMT-06:00) Galapagos
CALLING CODE
Electricity.
Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin), Type B (American 3-pin)
Learn more about Galapagos Islands
Best time to visit.
Simply put, there’s no bad time to visit the Galapagos Islands. Good weather is mostly found year round, as are the animals. This being said, November through to June is the preferred time to visit, with clearer skies, calmer seas and decreased winds. Of these, March and April have less rain, while November and December are the warmest. July to November is the best time for divers as whale sharks can often be spotted at Wolf and Darwin islands.
Learn more about the best time to visit the Galapagos Islands
Culture and customs
Ever since Charles Darwin brought attention to the giant tortoises, sea lions, hammerhead sharks and other spectacular wildlife of the Galapagos Islands, people have been fascinated by this archipelago of volcanic islands. Originally a pirate hideout, people started migrating to the islands from Ecuador after it became part of the country in 1832. Of the 13 major islands and scores of smaller islands and islets that make up the Galapagos, only five of them are inhabited – about 26,000 residents spread over the islands of Isabela, Santa Cruz, Floreana, Baltra and San Cristobal. The wildlife rules the rest of the islands, which are carefully managed to help protect the precious environment.
Geography and environment
Located in the Pacific Ocean about 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands are a volcanic archipelago of 13 major islands, six smaller islands and more than 100 islets. Some are sparsely vegetated with largely mountainous interiors, whereas others are comparatively lush with white-sand beaches. Many of the islands are in a state of flux, as continual volcanic eruptions cause them to erode and expand.
The largest island, Isabela, makes up half the land area of the Galapagos and is characterized by three active volcanos, a blue lagoon, clear lakes filled with flamingos and beaches where iguanas and sea lions roam. Santa Cruz is the second largest island with giant tortoises, marine iguanas and Galapagos crabs residing in Tortuga Bay. The oldest and most remote island, Espanola (also called Hood), boasts boobies, albatrosses and many species of birds and lizards not found anywhere else in the world.
Top wildlife to spot
1. Sea Lions
Whether you're loafing about on the beach or snorkeling offshore, you’ll be hard-pressed not to come face-to-face with these frolicsome critters at some stage. Playful, plentiful, and pretty much fearless, you’re supposed to keep a 2-meter distance from these guys at all times - though their insatiable curiosity can make this hard.
2. Marine Iguanas
The only lizards in the world that can live and forage in the ocean, the marine iguana is found solely in the Galapagos. Fierce and ferocious though these Godzilla-like reptiles may appear (Darwin called them ‘Imps of Darkness’), it’s all bluff – they only feed on algae. And with lung capacities permitting up to half an hour of underwater foraging, you’re just as likely find them gorging on the islands’ surrounding seabeds as scampering about the craggy rocks they inhabit.
3. Hammerhead Sharks
Boasting one of the animal kingdom’s most puzzling physiologies, hammerhead sharks are found in abundance off Wolf, Bartolome, Santa Cruz and Darwin islands. Unlike most sharks, they will often merge into schools of over 100 during the day - making for some incredible and surreal photo opportunities. And with no known human fatalities and a wealth of choice natural prey on offer, diving amongst them isn’t as scary or dangerous as one might think.
Darwin finches gave rise to one of the most game-changing theories of all time. By studying the differences between finches from different islands, Darwin hypothesized that the birds’ adaptations to their habitats resulted in their mutation into different species: his Theory of Evolution.
5. Giant Tortoises
No trip to the islands is complete without a visit to its most famous residents. Weighing up to 882 pounds, regularly living for more than 100 years, and able to go for up to 1 year without food, these gentle and slow-moving monsters are an intriguing and humbling spectacle to observe.
6. Sea Turtles
Snorkeling alongside these majestic creatures of the deep (or more accurately, the shallows) is one of those rare, life-affirming moments that makes a trip to the Galapagos immediately worthwhile. Keep your eyes peeled on the beaches for turtle nests too - the Galapagos is a hotbed of activity for these critters.
7. Blue-Footed Boobies
Despite essentially looking like handsome seagulls with painted toenails, blue-footed boobies, when caught hunting, serve up one of the Galapagos' most thrilling spectacles. Diving from heights of up to 100ft, groups of boobies hit the water at speeds up around 60km per hour. They usually let out a shrill whistle before letting rip, which means you'll usually have warning enough to get your camera out too. How considerate.
8. Flightless Cormorants
Granted, a flightless cormorant spotted on land isn't one of the most invigorating sights you'll see during your time here. But wait until you don your snorkel gear and spot one weaving elegantly through the water - the flightless cormorant will likely become one of your favorite discoveries in the Galapagos Islands for this reason alone.
9. Frigatebird
With its striking wingspan and deeply-forked tail, the magnificent frigate bird is easily one of the most impressive birds in the skies of the Galapagos archipelago. But they don't have such a swell reputation amongst other birds. Whilst they hunt fish on the oceans surface, they also force their winged brethren to regurgitate their food, which then they eat - a process known as kleptoparasitism. Still, they look gorgeous – particularly the males, with their bright-red chin sac.
Healthy and safety
Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travelers seriously, and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travelers check with their government or national travel advisory organization for the latest information before departure:
From Australia?
Go to: http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/
From New Zealand?
Go to: http://www.safetravel.govt.nz/
From Canada?
Go to: https://travel.gc.ca/
Go to: http://travel.state.gov/
Go to: http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/
The World Health Organisation
also provides useful health information: Go to: http://www.who.int/en/
Further reading
Similar destinations.
Thinking about a trip to the Galapagos Islands but still browsing other destinations? Check out our tours to neighboring countries:
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Comparison
Galapagos or Madagascar?
Galapagos Islands travel FAQs
Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.
Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards
From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).
However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.
Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.
Do I need a visa to travel to Galapagos Islands?
Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information.
Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your nationality.
Check the Essential Trip Information section of the itinerary for more information.
Is tipping customary in the Galapagos Islands?
While tipping isn’t mandatory, tips are very much appreciated by service workers and guides.
Leaving a 10% tip is customary in restaurants.
Some automatically add a 10% service charge to your bill, in which case an extra tip isn’t required.
What is the weather like in the Galapagos Islands?
The Galapagos Islands enjoy almost perfect weather all year with two distinct seasons offering warmer, rainier months and cooler, drier months.
Temperatures rarely dip below 70°F or reach higher than 90°F. You can travel to the islands anytime throughout the year and experience fantastic weather.
Light rainfall is expected from January to May (along with high humidity levels), but it never lasts for long and doesn't often turn into heavier downpours.
What is the internet access like in the Galapagos Islands?
There are reliable internet cafes in Puerto Ayora (Santa Cruz Island) and Puerto Baquerizo (San Cristobal Island).
Some hotels and restaurants on other islands will have a Wi-Fi connection, but it is best not to rely on it.
Can I use my cell phone in the Galapagos Islands?
There's good cell phone reception on the larger islands, but don’t expect it when at sea. The best local telephone companies are Porta and Movistar.
Ensure you have global roaming activated before leaving home if you wish to use your cell phone.
What are the toilets like in the Galapagos Islands?
Most towns have Western-style flushable toilets, though you will likely encounter squat toilets as well. Regardless, it’s a good idea to carry your own toilet paper and hand sanitiser, as they are not always provided.
What will it cost for a...?
- Juice = USD 1
- Street food snack = USD 1.50
- Simple lunch at a local restaurant = USD 3-5
- Sit-down dinner at a cafe or restaurant = USD 10–20
Can I drink the water in the Galapagos Islands?
Tap water isn’t considered safe to drink in the Galapagos Islands.
Avoid drinks with ice and make sure to peel fruit before eating it.
Help the environment and try to avoid buying bottled water. Instead, fill a reusable water bottle with filtered water. Your leader or hotel can tell you where to find filtered water.
Are credit cards accepted widely in the Galapagos Islands?
No, credit cards are not widely accepted.
There are a handful of shops on Santa Cruz that may accept major credit cards, but it’s preferable to pay in cash.
How many islands make up the Galapagos Islands?
The Galapagos Islands are made up of 13 larger islands and more than 60 smaller islands and islets. 5 islands are habitable to just over 30,000 people.
These 5 islands are Isla Baltra, Isla Floreana, Isla Isabela, Isla Santa Cruz, and Isla San Cristobal.
What is ATM access like in Galapagos Island?
The banks in Puerto Ayora and Puerto Baquerizo have ATMs.
The Banco del Pacifico in both towns is open from 8 am to 3:30 pm Monday to Friday and 9 am to 12.30 pm on Saturdays.
It's best to withdraw your money on the mainland in case these are out of order.
Check each bank's website for up-to-date opening hours.
What public holidays are celebrated in the Galapagos Islands?
- 1 Jan: New Year's Day
- 6 Jan: Epiphany
- 1 May: Labour Day
- 24 May: Battle of Pichincha
- 10 Aug: Independence Day
- 9 Oct: Guayaquil Independence Day
- 2 Nov: All Soul's Day
- 3 Nov: Cuenca Independence Day
- 25 Dec: Christmas
- 31 Dec: New Year's Eve
Please note, Galapagos Islands public holidays may vary.
Are the Galapagos Islands a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers?
The Galapagos Islands are a relatively hassle-free destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers.
Same-sex marriage was legalised in Ecuador in 2008. The country hosts several fiestas where it’s acceptable for men to cross-dress as women.
However, homophobic attitudes do exist among the older generations. It is best to avoid public displays of affection where possible.
For more detailed advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex or ILGA before you travel.
What to drink in the Galapagos Islands
Quench your thirst after a glorious day spent exploring the Galapagos by sipping on a glass of canelazo, horchata tea, or freshly made fruit juice.
During your cruise around the islands, it makes sense to try as many traditional Ecuadorian drinks as you can, especially since there are heaps to choose from.
Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?
Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.
For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance
Are Intrepid trips accessible for travelers with disabilities?
We are committed to making travel widely accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations.
We are always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.
Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?
Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.
Eden Reforestation Projects
Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief
World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation
Find your dream Galapagos cruise now:
Children: ages 6 to 11
The World's #1 Direct Seller of Galapagos Tours
Explore the Galapagos Islands with one of our amazing tours. Cruise, Scuba Dive, island hop, stay in a hotel and explore nearby islands -- choose how you want to experience the Islands! Don't forget, Galapagos Travel Center is here to help you customize your perfect trip.
Galapagos Cruises
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All Tour Options
Top 10 galapagos best selling cruises & tours.
Cormorant II Catamaran
A new luxury mega-catamaran equipped with ample cabins and the most sophisticated design.
4, 5 & 8 day cruises
From US$5,145 p/person (4D/3N)
Natural Paradise Yacht
A luxury yacht customized to carry 16 guests in comfort and safety through Galapagos.
From US$2,945 p/person (4D/3N)
Darwin's Footsteps
Enjoy some of the best views from Santa Cruz and Isabela, plus two more of the Galapagos islands.
8 Days / 7 Nights
From US$2,653 p/person
Bonita Yacht
This yacht gathers the best features of her class and hosts 16 guests in spacious staterooms.
7 and 5 day cruises
From US$2,343 p/person (5D/4N)
Horizon Trimaran
A luxury trimaran that provides an intimate experience on board with a touch of elegance and comfort.
From US$4,045 p/person (4D/3N)
Infinity Yacht
This vessel can host up to 20 passengers in ample and comfortable cabins equipped with private balconies.
From US$3,945 p/person (4D/3N)
Grand Majestic Yacht
Grand Majestic is the only modern mega-yacht cruising the Galapagos archipelago.
8, 5 & 4 day cruises
From US$3,450 p/person (4D/3N)
Coral I & II Yachts
These sister ships are the perfect combination of classic beauty and exquisite style.
From US$1,733 p/person (4D/3N)
Monserrat Yacht
Calipso features modern cabins with all the essentials and beautiful social areas.
4, 5, 7 & 8 day cruises
From US$2,030 p/person (4D/3N)
Galapagos Legend
This 100-pax luxury ship is equipped with five decks, a swimming pool and library.
From US$1,841 p/person (4D/3N)
See all Galapagos Tour Options
Traveler Reviews
Galapagos, quito, otavalo, rainforest.
"The whole trip was planned by this tour company and was excellent throughout. We toured the city of Quito, the highlands, the Galapagos on a cruise, and the rainforest ... This was a great trip with good value for the money as well."
Maureen C Boulder, Colorado
Amazing time in the Galapagos
"Great time visiting the Islands with a pretty packed schedule. Very happy with the time of the visit as we got to see most if not all the animals we could see. Every day offered a new excitement."
645jj Santa Fe, New Mexico
Virtually Flawless Trip Planning, Execution and Support
"Gabriela at galapagosislands.com put together a great itinerary for us that included a yacht cruise of the Galapagos Islands aboard the Natural Paradise, Quito, Cotopaxi Volcano, and the Napo river aboard the Manatee."
Wetravelllots San Francisco, California
Amazing Time
"This company from start to finish was great. My friend and myself basically had to book flights and the rest was done for us - and we could have even had that done for us too ... Highly recommend this agency!"
Annie E Nuremberg, Germany
Expert Travel Advice for your Galapagos Tour
Galapagos is a dream destination for most, and for us too; we are passionate about these wondrous islands and their natural beauty and wildlife, and we hope to share these wonders with you. With more than 20 years of experience, we are the Galapagos experts. We have even pioneered innovative technology over the years to give our travelers a great experience.
Our team is always available to give you personalized advice and guidance while we help you plan your perfect trip. With our carefully selected tours, we guarantee you will have an unforgettable experience.
Why Choose GalapagosIslands.com ?
- More than 20 Years of Experience
- 24/7 Customer Support
- #1 Online Seller of Galapagos Tours
- Expert Galapagos Trip Advisors
- Best Price Guaranteed
- Free Customized Tour Planning
Galapagos Islands Travel Tips
Discover everything you need to know about Galapagos Cruises and Galapagos Travel: when to go to the Galapagos, what to pack , and everything else you need with our pre-trip checklist . What is the weather like? Small boat or large ship? Can I stay in a Galapagos hotel instead of on a cruise ? For answers to these questions and more, see our Galapagos FAQ .
Trip Extensions for your Galapagos Tour
Extend your Galapagos Cruise
Enjoy additional days in the Galapagos Islands by staying at charming hotels in the towns of Puerto Ayora or San Cristobal, before or after your cruise experience .
Ecuador Tours
Ecuador has it all! Join us to discover all the amazing hidden gems Ecuador has to offer.
Machu Picchu & Peru
Cusco, The Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and The Inca Trail all offer a glimpse into the mysterious and fascinating life and history of the Incas.
Ecuador & Peru Best Selling Tours
Quito & Middle of the World
Explore the culture and magic of Colonial Quito and its surroundings.
Full Day Tour
From US$136 p/person
Mindo Cloud Forest Tour
Located 2 1/2 hours from Quito, Mindo is the most visited cloud forest in Ecuador.
2 Days / 1 Nights
From N/A p/person
Ecuador Scenic
A 8 days and 7 nights Ecuador expedition that takes you from the Andes to the Coast.
From US$1,485 p/person
Avenue of the Volcanoes
You will visit sights like the Cotopaxi National Park, Devil’s Nose and the city of Cuenca.
4 Days / 3 Nights
From US$727 p/person
Sacha Lodge
Designed to offer comfort yet preserve the environment and jungle ambience.
4 & 5 days
From US$1,490 p/person
Napo Wildlife Center
Napo Wildlife Center is located in one of the most biodiverse locations on the planet.
From US$1,425 p/person
La Selva Lodge
The perfect opportunity to experience the culture and wildlife of the Amazon Jungle.
See all Ecuador Add-on Tours & Expeditions
Complete Packages to the Best of South America
12D/11N from: $4,373
13D/12N from: $4,791
15D/14N from: $5,429
12D/11N from: $3,930
13D/12N from: $4,078
15D/14N from: $5,146
Luxury from: $14,030
First Class from: $11,252
Mid-Range from: $9,037
Information About the Enchanted Islands
Charles Darwin in the Galapagos
As one of the most famous visitors to the Galapagos, Charles Darwin and his impact on the world and the Islands continues to draw people to this amazing destination year after year. So, who is Darwin and what did he actually do?
Galapagos Weather: When to go?
Galapagos is the perfect year round destination because of its location on the equator and warm island weather. However, there are a few factors that might help you decide your perfect time to travel either during the dry or wet season...
Galapagos Wildlife
The Galapagos Islands are known for their fearless and curious wildlife. You can’t find another place in the world where sea lions will play with you in the water, iguanas pose for pictures, and sea birds walk right up to you. Learn more about each of these amazing creatures below.
Marine Life
Galapagos Fast Facts
- Fact 1: In 1978 UNESCO designated Galapagos as the first World Heritage site.
- Fact 2: The endemic Galapagos marine iguana is the only lizard to swim in the ocean.
- Fact 3: The lava tunnels on Santa Cruz, which you can walk through, provide an understanding of how the islands were formed.
Learn more here!
Plan & Book your Dream Galapagos Vacation
Let the Galapagos experts give you free travel advice and planning for your perfect adventure to the Enchanted Islands .
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Galapagos Land Tours with Galakiwi.
Galapagos local tour operator.
Experience amazing wildlife and culture every day, as the awe-inspiring Galapagos Islands offer world-class nature, as well as an interesting and intriguing human history. Playful sea lion encounters, a walk through an ancient lava tunnel, dining on delicious fresh seafood, and a hike to one of the largest volcanic calderas in the world are all possible. Join us on a Galapagos land tour while island hopping around one of the most amazing places on the planet!
Need even more adventure? Combine your Galapagos trip with our exciting tours in Ecuador and the Amazon to create the ultimate vacation.
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