Galápagos Adventure Tours Advantage vs Galápagos Islands Cruises
While many tours in the Galápagos are either entirely land-based or fully boat-based, we combine the magic of both so you can enjoy the best of land and water activities. Snorkel with sea lions and turtles by day, relax in locally owned comfortable hotels and dine in coastal towns by night. No being stuck on a boat for a week. Enjoy freedom to explore local communities, support island economies, and get a true feel for life on the Galápagos.
Our Galápagos Islands Tours & Ecuador Land Tours
Our Galápagos Islands Tours & Ecuador Land Tours
Hike, bike, kayak and dive the diversity of our Galápagos Islands Tours and Ecuador Tours
Even though the Galápagos Islands may be in one of the smallest countries in South America, they have an astoundingly high diversity in landscapes, flora and fauna. We've found the best way to experience the incredibly abundant wildlife — in the ocean, on land and in the skies — is by spending plenty of time on the water (kayaking, snorkeling or diving) and by exploring the archipelago's many islands on foot and by bike.
Beyond the wildlife, the Galápagos pulse with local life filled with markets, family-run eateries, and seaside evening plazas. Staying on land you'll meet the islands’ communities, taste fresh seafood, and feel the local rhythm ashore, that most cruises sail right past.
Join one of our Ecuador & Galápagos Islands tours, and you can explore from the depths of the Amazon rainforest to the magical cloud forests of Santa Cruz Island.
Love Hiking and Trekking? Experience Galápagos and Ecuador like never before
Experience one of the most unforgettable adventure tours in the Galápagos Islands as you set out hiking in Galápagos across the otherworldly landscapes of the Sierra Negra Volcano. Traverse vast lava fields, feel the earth’s raw power beneath your boots, and take in jaw-dropping views of the coastline from the edge of one of the world’s largest volcanic craters.
Guided by expert Galápagos Islands National Park naturalists, you’ll gain fascinating insight into the islands’ volcanic origins and vibrant ecosystems. This is more than a hike, it’s a true Galápagos adventure you’ll remember for a lifetime.
Explore Sierra Negra Volcano and Santa Cruz
Picture yourself tracing the rim of Sierra Negra, one of the world’s largest volcanic craters, where the views stretch endlessly across otherworldly lava fields. Later, wander the lush highlands of Santa Cruz, spotting giant tortoises grazing in the wild and soaking up the easy rhythm of island life. It’s a day of contrasts from fiery landscapes to gentle giants, and you’ll experience it all alongside guides who make these islands feel like home.
Discover the wonders of Quito Ecuador
Quito is a city that sweeps you up the moment you arrive. Nestled high in the Andes, its cobblestone streets and colorful plazas hum with history and warmth. Wander UNESCO-listed Old Town where colonial churches and lively markets sit against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks. Taste rich Ecuadorian chocolate, sip locally roasted coffee, and feel the pride locals have in sharing their culture. Exploring Quito is like stepping into a storybook.
Where are the Galápagos Islands?
The Galapagos Islands are a unique and remote set of islands located around 500 miles (800 kilometers) off the coast of Ecuador in the Pacific Ocean. The area was declared a Marine Reserve in 1986, as it is home to so many unique species. There are 7 major oceanic currents that assemble in the Galápagos marine ecosystem, making it a mecca for a mixture of wildlife - 17% of Galápagos fish species are endemic to the islands.
Get up close to Giant Tortoises, snorkel with sea lions and hike volcanic landscapes
You’ll experience giant tortoises as they roam freely through lush highlands. Slip into clear waters to snorkel alongside playful sea lions and a rainbow of tropical fish. Later, lace up your boots to hike across dramatic volcanic landscapes where every turn reveals a new story of fire and time. It’s an immersive opportunity to experience the Galápagos in all its wild, unforgettable beauty.
Best Time to Visit the Galápagos Islands and Ecuador
Unlike most other wildlife destinations, the animals in the GalápagosIslands can be seen year-round, with few migratory species and no need to wander off in search of waterholes or food. Therefore, there’s no “wrong” time to visit Galápagos, simply different times of the year have different things to see and do.
The best time to visit the Galápagos Islands depends on what you want to do and see. The wet season from January to June ranges between 79°F and 86°F (26°C and 30°C). The weather and water temperature is warmer, and the sea is calmer, making it a perfect time for snorkeling or diving. Many visitors also find the dry season more pleasant for land excursions with abundant wildlife and optimal conditions for sea lions, iguanas, sharks, and whales.
What our guests are saying about our Galápagos Islands Tours
FAQs about visiting the Galápagos Islands
While the Galapagos & Ecuador are pretty safe places, we recommend taking the same precautions you would anywhere else - just to be on the safe side! Pickpockets occasionally operate in areas where visitors are found so we suggest you leave any valuables you don’t need with you in the hotel safe (e.g. passports and credit cards). A copy of your passport and any valuables you do need with you should be kept in a passport wallet under your clothes and a small amount of money in your pocket/purse. It’s also a good idea to take a taxi after dark rather than walk.
The Galapagos Islands are a unique and remote set of islands located around 500 miles (800 kilometers) off the coast of Ecuador in the Pacific Ocean. The area was declared a Marine Reserve in 1986, as it is home to so many unique species. There are 7 major oceanic currents that assemble in the Galapagos marine ecosystem, making it a mecca for a mixture of wildlife - 17% of Galapagos fish species are endemic to the islands.
We recommend a minimum of 5 days to visit the Galapagos Islands. Considering you need to fly in and out or take a 3-day boat journey, you will want to make the most of it! The Galapagos Islands occupy an area of 45,000 square kilometers over 21 islands (13 of those form the 'major islands'.)
Yes! Wetsuits are provided for diving and snorkeling – SCUBA is recommended for experienced divers only because of strong swells and currents. Snorkeling is equally as good. The diving option includes two dives (additional fee applies). Diving is “subject to conditions” for visibility and we have a qualified dive master on the trip.
Our preferred Travel Partner Fuzion Travel can assist with you with flights and other travel arrangements. Let them know your preferred travel plans, including any stopovers or extra nights’ accommodation, and they’ll put everything in place for you. They offer a total travel solution and five star service you’ll want to tell your friends about!
Take 10% off the trip price when you book a trip and pay in full
By paying in full we are able to pass on savings to our guests, but please note that by opting for this payment plan, your booking becomes non-refundable, non-cancellable, and non-changeable. This offer is only valid for reservations where the trip is no sooner than 180 days from the departure date at time of booking.
We highly recommend that you purchase Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance. We recommend Redpoint Insurance - you can find details here.
*Terms and conditions apply - read more here.
#ActiveExplorer Moments From the Galápagos !
Gallery
Loading posts...
Why Travel With Us
A love of adventure, born in New Zealand
Our passion for exploration is rooted in a strong connection to the natural beauty of our home, New Zealand, and the drive to venture beyond its shores to discover a world different to our own.
Life-changing, rewarding experiences in breathtaking places
We believe the best journeys don’t just take you places, they inspire you and ignite your spirit. Our unique and thoughtfully designed itineraries ensure you'll experience the very best of each destination.
Expert guides, deep local connections
Feel the heart and soul of each place you visit with our local people on the ground and knowledgeable guides, who take great care to ensure a truly authentic and immersive experience. This is the real deal.
Flexible, personalized experiences
We take the time to get to know you to ensure you have the very best experience on our trips. Our small group adventures are big on flexibility. No matter what your version of "active" is, we have options on each trip to suit every individual.
We welcome all adventurers
Traveling solo, as a pair, or as part of a group? No worries, you'll be comfortable on our trips. Every trip is personalized with care by our team so everyone feels supported and free to enjoy their unforgettable adventure.
All-inclusive
Imagine a vacation that's fully guided, and everything is taken care of and included in the trip price — all accommodations, activities, transport on-trip, most meals, and more! Effortless and value-packed.
