Step into a realm where nature's most extraordinary creations are not just seen but experienced. Every corner of the Galapagos offers you an unforgettable journey into the heart of our wild world
With beautiful scenery, different islands to visit and fascinating wildlife, there are few places like the Galapagos. And with most of the land mammals, reptiles and birds only found here on the islands, it's a must visit destination for nature lovers. See our guide to Small Boat Galapagos Cruises for some fantastic examples.
Also home to beautiful beaches, warm temperature and crystal clear waters, the region offers something for everyone. The islands offer one of the most unique travel experiences available.
The best way to make the most of the region is to enjoy an all inclusive Galapagos Islands vacation to include accommodation, tours, meals and transfers.
You can reach the Galapagos Islands from Quito, Ecuador's capital city. And from here, you will arrive on one of the two airports serving the islands. These are located on Baltra Island and San Cristobal Island.
For a visual guide, see our interactive map of the Galapagos Islands below. This includes the main points of interest. Open the full map to see wildlife examples in each area.
The best way to experience the Galapagos Islands is aboard a small-ship cruise. With the many cruises for the Galapagos, it can be difficult to choose a vessel for your experience. The larger vessels…
The Top 10 Galapagos Small Ship Cruises
Inclusive Luxury Galapagos Cruises
The best way to experience the Galapagos Islands is aboard a luxury cruise. And the inclusive options below include transfers from Galapagos airport, delicious meals and some of the best expertly guided tours and activities the islands have to offer. Note you may be interested in some different tips for choosing the best family Galapagos cruise or for choosing Galapagos cruises for seniors.
Two of the best luxury Galapagos cruises are the Elite and Endemic.
The Elite and Endemic Luxury Cruises
The Elite and Endemic Cruises offers two of the newest and most luxurious cruises for the Galapagos Islands. Your friends will wish they were in your shoes when they see your photos and hear your Galapagos stories.
Both of these vessels surpass the majority of Galapagos cruises in terms of stability and comfort. To complement your incredible guided experiences of these remarkable islands, you will return to the high-class comfort of the vessel. Relax in your expansive suite or the well appointed social areas where you can talk about your Galapagos adventures.
Click the video below for a quick introduction to the Elite.
The Elite Galapagos Cruise
Baltra Island, EcuadorThe Elite Cruise invites you on an extraordinary exploration of the Galapagos Islands. With modern luxury, the Elite had its maiden voyage in 2019 and...
- High Luxury Cruise, Guided Galapagos Tours
From $ 4,990
/ personYour cabin features a private balcony with stunning views, air-conditioning, your choice of king-size or twin beds and a spacious bathroom.
The cruises offer:
- Outdoor Balcony & Spacious Exterior Areas
- Top Naturalist Guides and Crew
- Kayaks and Snorkeling Gear
- Al Fresco Dining and BBQ Areas
- Open Sky Lounge & Outdoor Whirlpool
- Sun Terrace and Observation Platform
- Cruise Service Officer (Hotel Manager)
- Spacious, Modern and Elegant Cabins and Social Areas
- Long and Short Itineraries Available
Click the video below for a quick introduction to the Endemic.
The Endemic Galapagos Cruise
Baltra Island, EcuadorThe Endemic Galapagos Cruise is a luxurious modern catamaran designed to offer you a fantastic experience of the Galapagos Islands. The luxury yacht ...
- High Luxury Cruise, Guided Galapagos Tours
From $ 4,990
/ personYou will enjoy captivating Galapagos excursions with your expert guide, unlocking a realm of fascinating natural discovery. Walk in the footsteps of Darwin and Galapagos explorers to find incredible wildlife.
Find the legendary giant tortoises, graceful frigate birds, lively sea lions, and see the iconic marine iguanas that epitomize the Galapagos.
Check availability for your travel dates by sending the Elite or Endemic a request using the buttons below.
The Elite Galapagos Cruise
Baltra Island, EcuadorThe Elite Cruise invites you on an extraordinary exploration of the Galapagos Islands. With modern luxury, the Elite had its maiden voyage in 2019 and...
- High Luxury Cruise, Guided Galapagos Tours
From $ 4,990
/ person
The Endemic Galapagos Cruise
Baltra Island, EcuadorThe Endemic Galapagos Cruise is a luxurious modern catamaran designed to offer you a fantastic experience of the Galapagos Islands. The luxury yacht ...
- High Luxury Cruise, Guided Galapagos Tours
From $ 4,990
/ personThe Ocean Spray Luxury Galapagos Cruise
The Ocean Spray is a luxury catamaran built for both comfort and performance as you travel between the Galapagos Islands. On board you'll find spacious and well-appointed cabins, a sun-drenched sundeck, and a Jacuzzi, everything you need to relax between daily excursions. Meals are served in an elegantly designed dining room or in the alfresco dining area, with a menu that blends Ecuadorian and international cuisine.
Out on the islands, expert naturalist guides lead every tour, giving you up-close encounters with the wildlife the Galapagos is famous for: giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, and sea lions, among others. Snorkeling and kayaking excursions take you into the clear waters to explore vibrant reefs and calm bays.
The itineraries cover some of the archipelago's most remarkable spots: San Cristobal Island, Leon Dormido, Pinnacle Rock, Genovesa with its black-sand beaches, Darwin Bay, North Seymour Island, the highlands of Santa Cruz, and the peaceful shores of Mosquera Island.
Depending on how much time you have, you can choose from 3, 4, 5, or 7-night cruise options.
Check availability for your travel dates by sending a request using the tour bubble below.
The Ocean Spray Cruise
Baltra Island, EcuadorAboard the Ocean Spray Cruise, you will embark on a memorable journey through the mesmerizing Galapagos Islands. The 16-passenger luxury catamaran of...
- Luxury Cruise, Guided Galapagos Tours
From $ 4,190
/ personGuide to the main Galapagos Islands
The three largest islands of the Galapagos are Santa Cruz, Isabela and San Cristobal. For information on all 19 islands, you can see our complete travel guide to the Galapagos Islands.
San Cristóbal
Like many islands in the Galapagos archipelago, San Cristóbal Island is home to some incredible animals and plants. Enjoy spotting the sea lions, giant tortoises and fascinating land formations.
Explore the highlands and coastal regions to enjoy different habitats and visit the beautiful Laguna El Junco, which is one of the favorite natural attractions of the island.
Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz is another main island in the archipelago. Visitors who arrive to the Galapagos at Baltra Island airport will first cross over to Santa Cruz. This is where many visitors will join their Galapagos Islands cruises.
Santa Cruz offers some of the best hotels, restaurants, cafes and souvenir shops on the Galapagos. However, there are also fantastic natural attractions as well.
Santa Cruz is where you find the Charles Darwin Research center where you can learn a little about the islands and have an introduction to the history, geography and nature of the region.
Enjoy walking trails in the highlands to see wild giant tortoises, visit beautiful lagoons, see the famous lava formations and visit the wharf and fish market to spot some regular island visitors enjoying the daily catch.
Isabela
The largest island in the Galapagos archipelago, Isabela is home to many examples of iconic animals. Enjoy spotting the marine iguanas, giant tortoises, cormorants, sea lions and penguins.
The island has a fantastic geography, as it was created by five volcanoes joining together. The volcanoes are still active and eruptions have been recorded every decade or so. As Isabela is a relatively new island compared to the others, the plants look a little different with thick lowland vegetation. There are also beautiful beaches to enjoy.
For information on the other Galapagos Islands, you can have a look at our complete guide for the Galapagos Islands.
When to Visit the Galapagos Islands
The Galapagos Islands are a fantastic places to visit at all times of year. Because of the tropical climate, there is a pleasant temperature no matter the month. However, there are some differences and times when it’s easier to see certain animals.
Let’s have a look at some of the differences for when to visit.
Most people visit the Galapagos Islands with images of fantastic wildlife in their minds. Most of the animals don’t migrate and remain on the islands at all times of year. However, there are a few marine animals and birds that do migrate, so if you have some specific animals to see in mind it’s best to make sure you’re visiting when they’re around the islands.
The following times are the best months to see popular migrating marine mammals:
- Manta Ray Season: December – May
- Whale Shark Season: June – November
- Hammerheads: December – May
As for the climate, the daily temperature of the Galapagos Islands is about 84°F (30°C) with a nightly temperature of 69°F (20°C).
There are two main seasons, which are produced from the changing ocean currents. The Humboldt Current is when the islands are cooler with less rain, which is between June – November. Warmer weather and more rainfall is then brought by the El Niño Current from December to June, which has a temperature between 80ºF (27ºC) and 90ºF (32ºC)
When to visit the Galapagos Islands • in/°F | mm/°C
Recommended Galapagos cruises & hotels offering package tours
Here are some ideas to help plan your Galapagos Islands vacation:
Inclusive Galapagos Islands Vacations - Summary
Here is our selection for an inclusive Galapagos Islands vacation.
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4, 5, 8 days
The Elite Galapagos Cruise
Baltra Island, EcuadorThe Elite Cruise invites you on an extraordinary exploration of the Galapagos Islands. With modern luxury, the Elite had its maiden voyage in 2019 and...
- High Luxury Cruise, Guided Galapagos Tours
From $ 4,990
/ person -
4, 5, 6, 8+ days
The Endemic Galapagos Cruise
Baltra Island, EcuadorThe Endemic Galapagos Cruise is a luxurious modern catamaran designed to offer you a fantastic experience of the Galapagos Islands. The luxury yacht ...
- High Luxury Cruise, Guided Galapagos Tours
From $ 4,990
/ person -
4, 5, 6 & 8 days
The Ocean Spray Cruise
Baltra Island, EcuadorAboard the Ocean Spray Cruise, you will embark on a memorable journey through the mesmerizing Galapagos Islands. The 16-passenger luxury catamaran of...
- Luxury Cruise, Guided Galapagos Tours
From $ 4,190
/ person
Ash Card
Tour Advisor @TourTheTropicsAsh Card is a frequent visitor to the Tropics and has a passion for helping visitors get the best experiences from tropical locations. Ash is a contributor and tour advisor at TourTheTropics.com. Feel free to contact Ash for tour help in the tropics. When not helping tourists with tours and info, Ash can be found traveling, on wildlife tours or salsa dancing. Ash has completed a BSc in Biology, a Master’s degree in Zoology, and has undertaken a research scholarship at a world-class university on animal behavior. He has published scientific research in the Australian Journal of Zoology and the Journal of Behavioral Ecology. His goal is to help a global society live in balance with the natural world.
