Swim with sea turtles, stingrays and dolphins, walk on the beach past seal colonies, come face to face with a land iguana and giant tortoise, and marvel at animal life every day. It’s possible on the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador. In this paradise, animals don’t see humans as enemies, and that makes for the most extraordinary experiences you won’t find anywhere else in the world. But how do you visit the Galápagos Islands in Ecuador? What is the best way to explore this extraordinary destination? And what should you keep in mind when planning your Galapagos islands trip? In this complete travel guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about visiting the Galápagos Islands in Ecuador.
The Galapagos Islands! Perhaps you have always dreamed of visiting these islands. Maybe you remember it from school books or have seen images of it on television. The Galapagos Islands are a unique place on earth and a trip there is an experience you will remember for a lifetime. But good preparation is essential because there are countless tours and packages offered. I was lucky enough to visit the Galapagos Islands several times, both for work and personal reasons. So in this article I am excited to tell you more about the Galapagos Islands and how to get the most out of your trip.
The Galápagos Islands are located in the Pacific Ocean, about 1,000 kilometers west of Ecuador, roughly a two-hour flight from the mainland. The archipelago consists of thirteen large islands and dozens of smaller islands and rock formations. The islands are named after the Galápagos giant tortoise, which lives here in large numbers.
The Galápagos Islands are best known for their exceptional biodiversity. Due to their isolated location, plants and animals on the islands have evolved in their own unique way, without influence from their mainland counterparts. As a result, many endemic species have developed. Here you can find remarkable species of tortoises, penguins, flamingos, marine iguanas, and birds that exist nowhere else in the world. It was here that Charles Darwin developed his theory of evolution and published his findings in the famous book The Origin of Species. Since 1978, the Galápagos Islands have been on the UNESCO World Heritage List, and the surrounding ocean has been declared a protected marine reserve.
There are several ways to visit the Galápagos Islands in Ecuador.
With island hopping, you stay in hotels on the larger islands, such as Santa Cruz, San Cristóbal, and Isabela. From there, you take day trips to other islands.
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But the very best way to experience the Galápagos Islands is through a cruise, where you stay on a ship that takes you to several different islands. A cruise is an experience in itself, but where better to do this than in the Galápagos Islands of Ecuador? You fall asleep in the most remote locations, wake up to views of sea turtles, and visit islands that can only be accessed with special permits.
During a cruise, you visit multiple islands without having to constantly pack and travel. You are guided by experienced naturalist guides who tell you everything about the local flora and fauna. In addition, excursions, snorkeling activities, and meals are often included. This allows you to fully focus on the experience, without having to worry about practical arrangements.
In the Galápagos Islands, you can choose from numerous ships that sail different routes. All operators have the necessary permits to operate in the Galápagos and offer a unique experience, something you can almost always expect in such an extraordinary destination. However, there are clear differences in ship size, comfort, style, service, what is included or excluded, and the itinerary. These factors naturally influence the price. Because a trip to the Galápagos is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, it’s worth taking the time to make the right choice. After all, there is a significant difference in experience between traveling on a ship with a small group of passengers and one with hundreds of people.
Are you looking for a boutique cruise with a maximum of 20 guests on board, with a strong focus on comfort and high-end service? Then a trip with Golden Galápagos Cruises in Ecuador might be exactly what you’re looking for. This company operates four ships, including the Elite Cruise. Curious? In the next article, I’ll tell you more about what you can expect from a stay on the Golden Galápagos Elite Cruise.
Interested in special rates with Golden Galápagos Cruises or a combination with a stay at La Selva Jungle Lodge in Ecuador? Feel free to send an email to contact@passporttheworld.com.
The Galapagos Islands in Ecuador have a (sub)tropical climate and can be visited all year round. And also the Galapagos animals show themselves throughout the year. The average temperature is around 25 degrees. Each month has its own advantages and disadvantages. The best time to visit the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador is generally between December and May. During these months, water temperatures are higher and the sea is calmer. However, there is a high chance of rainfall. The months of April, May, September and October are low season in the Galapagos Islands, which sometimes means lower costs. Temperatures are lower between June and November with more chances of fog.
There are direct flights from Quito and Guayaquil that fly to both Galapagos Island Baltra, and San Cristobal. Did you book a cruise? Then it is important to check where your cruise departs and ends. This because there are many different itineraries. Most cruises purchase all flights to the islands in advance, so you are guaranteed an available flight linked to your trip and cruise. The easiest way in that case is to have your cruise company arrange your flights, so that all the logistics fit together.
Looking for a flight for your trip to the Galapagos Islands? Through Skyscanner you can easily search, compare and book domestic flights in Ecuador.
At the departure airport, in Quito or Guayaquil you have to go to a counter where you buy a transit card for approx USD 20 per person. These cards are mandatory for everyone traveling to and from Galapagos. Then your luggage will be checked for fresh and animal products, which you are not allowed to take with you, and given a baggage release sticker. Make sure to double check the latest prices and complete the Declaration of Goods formulier online before departure. A flight takes about two hours and it is one hour earlier on Galapagos compared to the mainland.
Upon arrival at the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador, you will have to pay a National Park fee of USD 200 per person (please double-check prices in advance). Your luggage will be checked again and then you officially enter the world of Galapagos.
A trip to the Galapagos Islands is a unique destination and experience, which comes with a price tag. Here is a rough overview of a trip to the Galapagos Islands.
Curious about special prices at Golden Galapagos Cruises or a combination with a stay at La Selva Jungle Lodge in Ecuador? Then send an email to contact@passporttheworld.com.
The Galápagos Islands are a destination you should experience at least once in your lifetime. Whether you choose island hopping or a cruise, the unique nature and wildlife make this trip truly unforgettable. Curious about what a Galápagos cruise is like in practice? Read my personal experience of a luxury Golden Galápagos Cruises journey in the Galápagos Islands.
Tourism in the Galápagos Islands is regulated by the government and limited to a maximum number of visitors per day. That’s why it’s important to plan your trip well in advance.
Planning a trip to Ecuador or just starting your research? In the next travel guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about traveling to Ecuador, including practical tips, essential travel info, and inspiration for where to go and what to see. Hopefully, my articles will help you get the most out of your trip, or convince you to add Ecuador to your travel bucket list.
Did you enjoy reading this article about a trip and cruise on the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador? Let me take you on a journey along the most beautiful destinations and places to visit Ecuador. In the next articles you will find my Ecuador travel guides with lots of inspiration and tips.
Disclaimer: I was invited to stay at Golden Galapagos Cruises in Ecuador but this review is based on my personal view and is independent from the invitation.This article may contain affiliate links. If you purchase something using one of our links, we may receive a commission at no extra cost to you, which helps us keep this blog alive. Thank you for your support! Please see our disclosures for more information.
Are you interested in the world? Do you want to learn more about a country and its culture? Let me take you on a journey with Passport the World.
As a travel reporter, producer and tour guide, I have been traveling around the world for the last 20 years, looking for the most scenic places and stories that are worth sharing. In Passport the World, I am guiding you along scenic and cultural places, cities, art, viewpoints, hiking trails and unique experiences. To help you get the most out of your travels or to just get to know a country and culture better!
Are you interested in the world? Do you want to learn more about a country and its culture? Let me take you on a journey with Passport the World.
As a travel reporter, producer and tour guide, I have been traveling around the world for the last 20 years, looking for the most scenic places and stories that are worth sharing. In Passport the World, I am guiding you along scenic and cultural places, cities, art, viewpoints, hiking trails and unique experiences. To help you get the most out of your travels or to just get to know a country and culture better!
