General Information
Why Choose Land-Based Galapagos Travel? 🦭
This 6-day Galapagos island hopping tour isn’t just a trip; it’s an adventure you’ll remember for a lifetime, with a rich combination of volcanic landscapes, endemic wildlife, and oceanic adventures on Santa Cruz Island, Isabela Island, and uninhabited islands.
Begin your journey in the highlands, where ancient lava tunnels and 100-year-old giant tortoises await. Learn more about giant tortoises, unique species of the Galapagos Islands. Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Los Tuneles, a maze of submerged lava bridges teeming with seahorses, sea turtles, and reef sharks.
Hike through wetlands teeming with flamingos, snorkel alongside curious sea lions, and walk along the spectacular crater rims at Los Gemelos.
Explore some of the archipelago’s most iconic uninhabited islands: North Seymour with its dancing boobies, Bartolome with its penguins and panoramic volcanoes, or Plazas with its vibrant red vegetation. This itinerary is perfect for wildlife lovers, active travelers, and photographers looking for a complete Galapagos adventure in just under a week.
Highlights
- Explore ancient lava tunnels
- See giant tortoises
- Snorkel in Los Tuneles
- Explore wetlands surrounded by flamingos
- Sail to two uninhabited islands
- Walk along the edges of Los Gemelos
Itinerary
- Explore volcanic lava tunnels
- Visit a giant tortoise reserve
- Free afternoon in Puerto Ayora
- Yacht tour to one uninhabited island (based on availability)
- Guided hike and snorkeling
- Visit the wetlands
- Flamingo watching
- Snorkel in Concha de Perla
- Boat ride to Los Tuneles
- Snorkeling in Los Tuneles
- Lava walk
- Excursion to Santa Fe or Floreana
- Guided hike
- Snorkeling
- Landscape observation
- Transfer to the airport
- Sail the Itabaca Channel
DAY 1: WELCOME TO GALAPAGOS - SANTA CRUZ HIGHLANDS
An unforgettable journey begins this day as we welcome you at Baltra Airport, the world's first eco-friendly airport.
We'll cross the Itabaca Channel to reach Santa Cruz, our first destination. This day, you'll walk through ancient underground lava tunnels formed centuries ago by volcanic eruptions.
One of the friendliest animals in the Galapagos is the giant tortoise; you'll visit a reserve with specimens over 100 years old that roam freely in their natural habitat.
In the afternoon, you'll check into your hotel and have time to explore Puerto Ayora, the largest and busiest town in the archipelago. Alternatively, you can explore local cafes or visit the local fish market to see sea lions "helping" the fishermen.
Activities:
DAY 2: UNINHABITED ISLAND EXCURSION
Your second day will begin in the morning with a full-day yacht excursion to one of the iconic uninhabited islands of the Galapagos, each with a unique ecosystem.
Subject to availability and park regulations, you will visit:
North Seymour Island, known for the mating dance of the blue-footed boobies and the magnificent frigate birds with their inflated red throat pouches. Did you know that this island was raised from the ocean floor by tectonic activity, not volcanic eruptions?
Another island you have the option to visit is Bartolome Island, famous for Pinnacle Rock, the most photographed site in the Galapagos. Finally, South Plazas Island, a small island with vibrant Sesuvium vegetation that turns bright red during the dry season. In the afternoon, you will return to Santa Cruz Island.
Activities:
DAY 3: ISABELA ISLAND - FLAMINGOS AND SNORKEL
Your third day starts early, aboard a speedboat to Isabela Island, the largest in the archipelago. Unique for its seahorse shape, it was formed by the union of volcanoes. It is one of the most geologically active places on the planet.
Your first stop will be a walk through the wetlands, a network of lagoons and mangroves where you can spot flamingos, marine iguanas, and Darwin's finches. Did you also know that this island is home to the largest population of flamingos in the Galapagos?
Snorkel in Concha de Perla, a shallow, crystal-clear lagoon where you'll swim among green turtles, manta rays, reef fish, and curious sea lions.
Activities:
DAY 4: LOS TUNELES - RETURN TO SANTA CRUZ
On your fourth day, you'll head to the lava tunnels and arches formed when lava meets seawater, creating a unique geological labyrinth of crystal-clear pools and coral bridges.
This site is a marine paradise. You'll snorkel with whitetip reef sharks, sea turtles, eagle rays, seahorses, and colorful reef fish. With luck, you might spot Galapagos penguins and blue-footed boobies nearby.
After this unforgettable experience, you'll return to Puerto Villamil for your return to Santa Cruz Island.
Activities:
DAY 5: SECOND EXCURSION TO THE UNINHABITED ISLAND
On your fifth day, you'll sail to Floreana or Santa Fe Island, both uninhabited and full of natural surprises.
Floreana Island, known for its mysterious pirate history, is a blend of human history and natural wonders. Here, you can snorkel in Devil's Crown, a submerged volcanic crater home to reef sharks, parrotfish, and turtles.
Santa Fe Island, one of the oldest islands in the archipelago, is the only place where you can observe the Santa Fe land iguana, a species found nowhere else. In the afternoon, you'll return to Santa Cruz.
Activities:
DAY 6: FAREWELL TO THE GALAPAGOS
On your last morning, you'll enjoy breakfast and store your luggage. It's time to return to the mainland. You'll continue your journey to Baltra Airport through the Itabaca Channel and board your flight with memories of your unforgettable trip to the Galapagos.
Activities:
Price 2026
| Accomodation/ Price per person | Budget | Standard | Confort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Accommodation Based in 4 person |
GALLERY
Maps
Galapagos Travel: 6-Day Island Hopping Adventure with Wildlife Encounters FAQ
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 🔍
Where are the Galapagos Islands located?
The Galapagos Islands are located in the Pacific Ocean, approximately 1,000 km (600 miles) off the coast of Ecuador.
When is the best time to visit the Galapagos?
The Galapagos Islands are a year-round tourist destination, and each season offers the chance to observe unique wildlife.
Warm season in December and May: Calmer, warmer waters ideal for snorkeling, and active breeding of many terrestrial species. Cool season in June and November: Cooler waters, more active marine wildlife, and clear skies.Are the Galapagos Islands safe for tourists?
Yes, the Galapagos Islands are generally very safe for tourists.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in the Galapagos?
You can observe endemic species such as giant tortoises, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, frigate birds, Galapagos penguins, sea lions, and several species of finches, often up close, and other animals not found anywhere else in the world.
Is travel insurance necessary for the Galapagos?
Yes, it’s highly recommended to cover unforeseen events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.
What should I pack for a Galapagos trip?
Light clothing, a swimsuit, walking shoes/sandals, a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, and (optional) a camera to capture your moments in the Galapagos.
Can I explore the Galapagos Islands independently?
You can stay in hotels on inhabited islands on your own. However, to visit the protected visitor sites of the Galapagos National Park or Marine Reserve, you must be accompanied by a certified naturalist guide as part of an organized tour.
REQUIREMENTS FOR ENTRY TO THE GALAPAGOS:
Valid Passport: Valid for at least 6 months.
Visa: Not required for citizens of the U.S. and most other countries, but verify your nationality.
Transit Control Card (TCT): $20 USD (purchased at airports in continental Ecuador).
Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee: $200 USD per foreign adult (payable in cash upon arrival in the Galapagos).
Biosecurity Inspection: Your luggage will be inspected before flying to the Galapagos.
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