galapagos tour companies

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.  

Our Galapagos Islands trips

Let's create an exclusive trip for your group.

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

Filter by rating

Best of Galapagos

Classic Galapagos: Central Southern Islands (Grand Queen Beatriz)

Galapagos Island Hopping

Articles of Galapagos Islands

I love solo travel, but anonymous travel is what I really need

How the animal anomalies of the Galapagos helped validate my life choices

Galapagos or Madagascar? Which unique destination should be at the top of your travel list?

6 family holidays with a difference

The joys of exploring the Galapagos Islands with my mom

The top 7 destinations for travel in September 2024

7 ways to travel responsibly in the Galapagos Islands

Quito and beyond: 3 things to do in Ecuador after a Galapagos trip

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:

Colombia tours

Brazil tours

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.

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

Best Galapagos Islands Tour Companies

Search 92 Galapagos Islands tour operators and travel companies, with 190 reviews.

Health Safety +

Featured Galapagos Islands Trips

G Adventures

Intrepid Travel

Exodus Travels

Responsible Travel

Charlie The Traveler

Health Safety

Sign in  to see which companies give additional savings to Travelstride Members (it’s free)

Discover Corps

Travel for All

ROW Sea Kayak Adventures

Royal Galapagos

Quark Expeditions

Rainforest Cruises

Tropic Journeys in Nature

Andean Summit Adventure

Metropolitan Touring

Andean Discovery

Rothschild Safaris

92 match your criteria (1 - 20 shown)

View Galapagos Islands trips

Plan your Galapagos Islands trip

Galapagos Islands Reviews & Ratings

I thought the trip was good, but.

I thought the trip was good, but there were a few things that kept ...

I have now had 5 Intrepid experiences

I have now had 5 Intrepid experiences and have found the tou...

Excellent local guide, amazing location, ethically sensitive

Excellent local guide, amazing location, ethically sensitive and w...

Amazing trip. Amazing guide. Great itinerary. Fell

Amazing trip. Amazing guide. Great itinerary. Fell in love with the Galápagos Islands.

It was a great trip which selected

It was a great trip which selected highlights of the ...

See all Galapagos Islands reviews

Related Trips and Tours

Trip planning.

THE 10 BEST Galapagos Islands Tours & Excursions

Galapagos islands tours.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Walking Tours
• Photography Tours
• Self-Guided Tours & Rentals
• Private Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Skip-the-Line Tours
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Day Tour to Isabela Island with Tintorera Islet, Snorkeling Wetlands & Flamingos

2. Day Tour to Santa Fe Island and Hidden Beach with snorkeling and fishing

3. Day tour to Pinzón Island and La Fé/Palmitas Bay with snorkeling and fishing

4. Day Trip to Bartolome Island from Puerto Ayora

5. Snorkeling in Cabo Rosa Tunnels Isabela Island

6. Full Day Tour Pinzon Island + La Fe/Las Palmas - Snorkeling & Fishing

7. Day tour to San Cristobal Island with private Land Tour and snorkeling

8. Giant Tortoises Private Tour of Galapagos Frontier Reserve

9. Day Tour to Floreana Island with Snorkeling and Fishing

10. Isabela Island Tour in Galapagos with Kayak and Snorkeling

11. Adventure with Turtles, Lava Tunnels and Los Gemelos Craters

12. Full day Snorkeling Tour Santa Fe Island and Playa Escondida

13. Transfer Airport-hotel in Galapagos Santa Cruz with visit to Giant Tortoises

14. Full-day Adventure Tour at Kicker Rock (León Dormido)

15. Galapagos Intensive 5 days, land base (3Islands) Excludes galapagos flight

16. Full Day Galapagos 360 Tour from San Cristobal (naturalist guide)

17. Hiking Tour to Sierra Negra Volcano

18. Half Day Bay Tour in Santa Cruz Island

19. Full Day Pinzon Island, Finishing in la Fe with Snorkeling and Lunch included

20. Snorkeling and Fauna Observation at Las Tintoreras Islet

21. Full-Day Tour to Floreana Island, Cave of Pirates and Punta Cormorant

22. Kayaking Experience in Franklin Bay

23. 8 Day Galapagos Island Hopping

24. Full Day Tour 360 San Cristobal - Best of the Island

25. Galapagos TURTLE bike route + reserve the CHATO

26. Private Charles Darwin Station Tour &Tortuga Bay Beach with lunch

27. Private Tour Sighting Giant Tortoises and Lava Tunnels

28.  Tour of the city to Isabela + Tintoreras from Santa Cruz

29. 12-Day Galapagos Superior Adventure (Tourist Class)

30. 4-Day Galapagos Islands Cruise: Itinerary C (South) aboard the Monserrat Yacht

What travelers are saying.

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » South America » Ecuador » Galapagos

Galapagos Tours: Guide for a Galapagos Adventure (2024)

The Galapagos Islands are one of the most impressive and untouched archipelagos found anywhere on the planet.

The islands’ remoteness, abundant biodiversity, and historical importance all come together to make one hell of an adventure travel destination. Charles Darwin was onto something good when he first stepped foot on the islands more than 180 years ago.

Now, the Galapagos Islands are NOT a budget travel destination.

Whilst it is possible to visit the Galapagos on a budget, there is simply no ultra-cheap way to experience the islands, which is exactly why I bring you this in-depth guide on the  best Galapagos tour companies .

Short of sailing on your own boat, the best way to get the most out of your Galapagos travel experience is to book some sort of a Galapagos tour.

Now, I am the first person to raise my eyebrows when I hear the word  organized  tour, but some of the world’s most remote regions require tapping into outside forces.

I review the best Galapagos tours, including budget tours, liveaboard trips, luxury tours, and more, so you can find the right trip suited for your budget and style.

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Quick Answer: Best Galapagos Tour Companies

• Best Galapagos Scuba Diving Tour – Liveaboard Galapagos
• Best Budget Galapagos Scuba Diving Tour: Terra Diversa 
• Top Budget Galapagos Tour: Intrepid  
• Best Galapagos Camping/ Adventure Tour: G Tours

Best Galapagos Luxury Tour: Adventure Life

Do You Want to Travel FOREVER??

Pop your email in below to get a FREE copy of ‘How to Travel the World on $10 a Day!’.

How to Choose the Best Galapagos Tour

Best galapagos tours: company breakdowns, what to pack for the galapagos and ecuador, being a responsible backpacker in the galapagos islands.

Every Galapagos tour company is different. This includes the activities they offer and the accommodation quality. Prices fluctuate like the ocean tides and each Galapagos tour company carries its own distinct vibe/style.

Below I cover the best Galapagos diving liveaboard trips, budget Galapagos tours, Galapagos camping tours, Galapagos luxury tours, boat cruise tours, and more.

The goal of this guide is to shine a light on the Best Galapagos tours so that you can spend less time researching and more time getting stoked for your backpacking Galapagos trip .

For most travelers, we predict the most important factor to consider when choosing the best Galapagos tour comes down to price. Galapagos tour prices range from $600-700 at the low end to an appalling $10,000-12,000+ (for just two weeks!) on the luxury end.

The next factors to consider are the activities/focus/itinerary of the tour. Some tours are very “cruise” heavy, meaning you spend lots of time sailing on the ocean around the islands. Other Galapagos tours are very scuba diving focused. A majority of Galapagos tours are mixed adventure trips. This means they offer activities like day hikes, camping, diving, and cruising, as well as historical and cultural components.

After you dial in your Galapagos tour budget, you can then start to sort through the various itineraries/companies to find your perfect match. And if you want to explore by yourself, there are amazing hostels in Galapagos as well that won’t kill your bank account.

The Galapagos tour game all comes down to what you like to do and how much you willing to pay for it.

Below I highlight my top picks for the best Galapagos tour companies.

Each company I highlight has something special to offer. Remember there are LOTS of Galapagos tour companies out there. I DO NOT  cover shit tours, ecologically unethical tours, or companies with poor reputations for customer service.

A visit to the Galapagos Islands is bound to be a highlight of your life and I want to make sure the tour company you choose meets your expectations in order to help make your Galapagos dream a reality.

Best Galapagos Scuba Diving Tour:  Liveaboard Galapagos

• Price: $2000-6000+
• # of Days: 4-8
• Main Activities: Scuba Diving

For scuba diving fanatics, few experiences can compare to a Liveaboard trip in the Galapagos. The waters around the Galapagos islands a protected marine reserve.

Protections have been in place for decades and the results are obvious. Ecosystems are intact. Abundant wildlife is thriving. The scuba diving is EPIC.

Liveaboard trips are great for fully immersing yourself in the world of scuba diving for a week or more. The boat you stay on goes to places that day trip scuba diving operators cannot. Basically, staying on a Liveaboard boat is the equivalent to staying at a luxury hotel. The food is amazing, the accommodation is top tier (for a boat), and you can expect multiple scuba dives every day of the trip. It’s a beautiful thing.

There are cheaper liveabaord-style Galapagos tours out there, but none with the same track record of excellence as the Liveaboard company.

(If you’re interested in liveaboard trips in other parts of the globe, we’ve covered that too.)

What is the Best Galapagos Tour Offered by Liveaboard?

Many of the Galapagos Liveaboard tours are much the same in terms of the itinerary (though they do have different itineraries). The main differences in price reflect the size of the boat, how many occupants the boat can serve, and the duration of the tour.

The cheaper Liveaboard tours are often 4 days or so, and can accommodate up to 50+ people. A crucial thing to note is that the cheap Liveaboard trips do NOT include any scuba diving. They are for pleasure cruising and snorkeling only. Scuba diving Liveaboard trips are more in the $4000-6000 range.

One of the best Galapagos Liveaboard tours for scuba diving is the Central Archipelago tour  aboard the Humboldt Ship ($5400, 8 days/7 nights).

The Humboldt takes divers to the best dive sites of the Galapagos to discover Galapagos sharks, hammerheads, turtles, schools of tuna, manta rays, whale sharks and white tip sharks.

The boat offers 8 air-conditioned, double cabins with an ocean view, TV/DVD, private bathrooms and showers. The 7 member crew goes out of their way to ensure guests are comfortable. Guests can relax in the air-conditioned salon, the covered back deck, and a sundeck with Jacuzzi. All in all, this is a pretty high-end tour we’re talking about.

For people who are serious about experiencing some truly once-in-a-lifetime scuba diving whilst living the high life, Liveaboard Galapagos is where it’s at.

Best Budget Scuba Diving Tour: Terra Diversa 

• Price: $1250+
• # of Days: 6

Good, you are still with me! If the prices of the above Liveaboard Galapagos tours nearly lead you to stop reading this article, I have. a tour company that will be music to your ears.

Terra Diversa is one of the best Galapagos tour companies for budget scuba diving trips. They cost significantly less than Liveaboard trips. That said, the overall style of the Terra Diversa tours are much different indeed.

First of all, you will not be based on a boat. This company runs its tours from a base on one of the islands. You still get to do loads of diving, just without all of the #shiplife luxury and moving around.

Every day of the tour you visit a different dive site and then return to “base camp” in the afternoon. Terra Diversa is an excellent option for backpackers lwho want to go scuba diving in the Galapagos without spending $5000 each.

What is the Best Galapagos Tour Offered by Terra Diversa?

The Terra Diversa budget Galapagos diving package is perhaps the best budget diving tour you will find anywhere.

It’s a six-day land-based tour with its base camp on Santa Cruz Island. You’ll enjoy six dive immersions at dive sites throughout the surrounding area. Divers can expect to pack in lots of quality dive time at the most important sites near Santa Cruz Island.

Because this is essentially a bare-bones tour, there are additional costs involved. Whilst your accommodation, breakfast, light lunch, diving costs, and transport around the Galapagos are covered, several important components are not.

Your flight from mainland Ecuador is not included. Entrance to the Galapagos National park is not included ($100). Dinner and booze are not included. When you start adding up the costs, you are easily looking at another $1000, if not more.

Bearing all of this in mind, Terra Diversa tours offer great all-around value for backpackers interested in a Galapagos scuba diving trip.

Best Galapagos Budget Tour for Under 30 Backpackers: Intrepid Travel

• Price: $1460- $2000
• # of Days: 9
• Main Activities: Hiking, snorkeling, beach chilling

Are you a backpacker between the age of 18 – 29 keen to discover the magic of the Galapagos? I have found the perfect tour for you.

Intrepid Travel offers affordable budget tours for younger backpackers. They have an age cut off to ensure the vibe stays youthful, highly energized, and open to debauchery without the possibility of offending older paying guests (my speculation).

The Intrepid Galapagos tour really keeps you on the move. The tour begins and ends in Quito (in the Andes), so in total you have six days to explore the islands.

The main activities for this Galapagos tour are hiking, chilling the F out on the beach, island hopping, and snorkeling (sometimes with sharks).

A cool aspect of this tour is the fact that you are traveling with like-minded backpackers your own age. As a kid, I use to go on trips with my parents and once I was stuck on a tour bus full of people over 70 years old for two weeks. You don’t want that.

What is the Best Galapagos Tour Offered by Intrepid?

Be sure that Intrepid offers many other tours besides the Essential Galapagos budget tour for younger backpackers.

I am covering their budget tour here because 1) It is one of the cheapest around and 2) Intrepid tours are a whole lot of fun.

Like the Terra Diversa tour listed above, you need to be aware of what’s included and what’s not.

The Intrepid Essential Galapagos tour covers your transportation (including flights), 5 breakfasts, hostel accommodation, and activities like hiking and snorkeling.

What’s not included: All meals except for 5 breakfasts, entrance fee to National Park ($100) and port fee ($10), and activity add-ons.

I am not a fan of all the meals guests need to pay for, but the tour does include your flights which is a huge saving. Plus you get a few days in the fantastic Andean city of  Quito . Exploring the Andes and the Galapagos on one trip? Hell yes.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Best Galapagos Camping/ Adventure Tour: G Adventure Tours 

• Price: $1500+
• Main Activities: Hiking, snorkeling, camping

Another company doing badass Galapagos tours with younger backpackers in mind is G Adventures . Like Intrepid, G Adventures offers up various Galapagos tour options for reasonable prices.

Several G Adventure Galapagos tours offer up a good mix of activities, including camping and hiking. Outdoorsy types will love all of the nature-based activities.

I like G Adventures as a company for several reasons. They offer the maximum enjoyment level at some of the lowest prices around. Perhaps even more importantly, they take pride in their solid environmental track record. Far too many companies that operate in South America couldn’t care less about environmental ethics.

What is the Best Galapagos Tour Offered by G Adventures?

Again, G Adventures runs multiple tour itineraries. What equals the best tour for one person may not be the best for another. The Galapagos Adventure Tour  is my favorite both in terms of price and activities offered. Few other tour companies offer camping experiences at this price point.

The campsites are located in the remote highlands of the Santa Cruz and Isabela Islands. During free time and included activities there are opportunities to explore the towns and coastal areas on these islands, but in an effort to create a wilderness experience, the camping is not located in the towns, which is awesome.

So, what’s included and what’s not? All internal flights, multiple meals, transportation, camping, and some hikes are included. Certain meals, national park fees, optional activities like snorkeling and some hikes are not included.

G Adventures estimates you’ll need around $200 USD+ to cover the additional meal costs.

For an off the beaten track Galapagos camping tour experience, look no further than G Adventures.

• Price: $4000 – 8000
• # of Days: 4-9
• Main Activities: Kayaking, wildlife watching, wining and dining

For those of you with a little more cash in your bank account than us, the broke backpackers, Adventure Life is a fine company running Galapagos luxury tours.

Most Adventure Life tours offer a touch of the finer things in life. Luxury accommodation, dining, and adventure sport activities are all on the menu.

The main two types of tours offered by Adventure Life are hotel based or ship based. This is exactly what it sounds like. For certain tours, you sleep in hotels and do activities by day. For ship-based tours, you are sleeping on the boat and making day trips from the vessel.

Like some of the above-mentioned tour companies, Adventure Life runs tours all over the world. They have an excellent reputation for providing outstanding customer service and activity opportunities.

Adventure Life Galapagos tours are not for everyone (and certainly not for everyone’s budget), but if what they do interests you, there is no better company to enjoy a luxury Galapagos adventure.

What is the Best Galapagos Tour Offered by Adventure Life?

For a traveler who enjoys outdoor physical activities paired with a very comfortable accommodation, the Galapagos Multisport tour is the perfect Galapagos itinerary.

The Galapagos Multisport tour provides a good mix of kayaking, paddle boarding, hiking, and snorkeling. Sea lions, marine iguanas, dolphins, turtles, and bountiful birdlife swoop around you while you paddle and play. Not bad, right?

This Galapagos Multisport Adventure is the ultimate combination of adventure, comfort, and wildlife interaction, and a perfect trip for active families and athletic groups of four or more.

Whilst your accommodation, most activities, and many meals are included in the tour price, some crucial bits are not included.

Internal flights are not included (which is crazy if you pay $5,000 for a tour!). Add on the entrance fees and estimated $200/person for meals and you are looking at an additional $1000 minimum.

The Adventure Life is such a great tour, c’mon guys! How hard would it be for you to include the damn flights within Ecuador? Regardless, if you are looking for an awesome, comfortable adventure, Adventure Life is ready to make that dream come true.

Best Galapagos Luxury Tour #2: National Geographic Expeditions

• Price: $7,190 – 7,550
• Main Activities: Kayaking, snorkeling, hiking, wildlife

Another Galapagos luxury tour company that should be on your radar is National Geographic Expeditions . Yes, that is National Geographic. You too can join the prestige of a luxury National Geographic “expedition!”

Whilst the term expedition isn’t really accurate for this Galapagos tour, experiencing the Galapagos with a team of National Geographic naturalists from the comforts of a luxury ship is every bit as awesome as it sounds.

This tour very much focuses on learning about/experiencing the Galapagos Islands’ diverse wildlife species . In addition to getting up close and personal with the islands’ unique animals, there are plenty of outdoor activities on offer.

Kayaking, hiking, and snorkeling are all included in the tour. Certain National Geographic Expeditions tours offer scuba diving as well (at extra cost).

What is the Best Galapagos Tour Offered by National Geographic Expeditions?

The National Geographic Expedition Cruise to the Galapagos is an ultra-comfortable, luxury cruise tour with the associated price tag. As one of the most expensive tours on my list, this Nat Geo tour is also the most high-end in terms of luxury. This is not your typical backpacker adventure.

This tour offers accommodation on a luxury ship for 7 days (two nights on the mainland of Ecuador). Certainly, one of the highlights of the trip is getting to meet the endangered Galapagos giant tortoises at a National Geographic-supported captive breeding program.

What sets this tour apart from the rest of the pack is its unparalleled access to unique wildlife experiences with Nat Geo naturalists… that and the fact that you are cruising around in one of the most luxurious fleets in the Galapagos.

If you are interested in high-end luxury and learning about the unique biodiversity, history, and conservation efforts in the Galapagos, then the National Geographic Expedition Cruise will meet all of your needs and then some.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Top Tips for Choosing A Galapagos Tour

Below, I have listed some tips/things to consider when selecting your own epic Galapagos tour adventure…

• Keep in mind internal flights within Ecuador can be expensive. If a tour doesn’t include flights to the islands, research how much flights cost for when you want to go and weigh the pros and cons.
• Factor in any extra meals you will need to buy. Every Galapagos tour on my list includes at least some meals. Budget tours tend to seriously skimp in regard to meals. Restaurants on the Galapagos Islands are among the most expensive in the whole country, so be sure to budget for any extra meal costs.
• The Galapagos National Park entrance fee is $100 per adult. Pretty much every tour will require you to pay this fee upon arrival.
• Be wary of “side trips” or “optional extras.” Again, both budget and luxury tours offer side trips or extra paid activities. Make sure you read the itinerary carefully and have a realistic idea of what is included and what is extra.
• Budget for tips. As a tour guide myself (in Pakistan) I know how sweet it is to receive tips after a job well-done. Sometimes, people can forget about tipping guides altogether and simply don’t think to budget for it. Tour guides work very hard to ensure you have an awesome time. If your guide does an amazing job, show him or her some love in the form of a decent tip. If the guide is shit, well, then don’t give them anything.
• Don’t go with a company that has a poor record of unethical environmental practices. Touching any marine life of any kind is unacceptable. Feeding wildlife simply to attract fish is even worse. Like I said before, there are plenty of tour companies out there that will happily take your money. Do your homework, especially if you are considering a budget operator not featured on this list! Not only can these budget companies be unethical, but diving with them can also be very dangerous. Do your due diligence and you should be just fine.

Whether you are just going to Ecuador for your Galapagos adventure or you are staying on to explore more of the country afterward, here are five things I never go traveling without:

Travel Security Belt

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

Microfiber Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

‘Monopoly Deal’

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

For plenty more inspiration on what to pack, check out my full backpacking packing list.

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

Books to Read on the Galapagos Islands

Here are some of my favorite book set in the Galapagos…

• Galapagos: A Novel : In this inimitable novel, America’s master satirist looks at our world and shows us all that it is sadly, madly awry. Kurt Vonnegut is always a good time.
• The Beach of a Finch : On a desert island in the heart of the Galapagos archipelago, where Darwin received his first inklings of the theory of evolution, two scientists, Peter and Rosemary Grant, have spent twenty years proving that Darwin did not know the strength of his own theory.
• My Father’s Island : A true story that incorporates biography, adventure, and the elements of armchair travel. Angermeyer, who grew up in Nebraska, embarks on a search to discover what happened to her father, a refugee from Hitler, on the Galapagos Islands where he and her mother had lived before his death.
• Lonesome George : The legendary story of a legendary tortoise: Lonesome George is a 5 foot long, 200-pound tortoise, between 60 and 200 years old. In 1971 he was discovered on the remote Galapagos island of Pinta, from which tortoises had supposedly been extinct for years.
• The Origins of Species : Darwin’s classic masterpiece where he lays out his argument for the “survival of the fittest” theory and the bases of evolution as we know it. A must read!
• Lonely Planet: Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands : Practical information for backpacking around Ecuador and the Galapagos.

Get Insured before Visiting the Galapagos Islands

Even if you are only traveling to the Galapagos for a short period, you should consider travel insurance. Ecuador is pretty safe , but you can never be careful enough. Have fun on your backpacking adventure but please do buy insurance – take it from someone who has racked up tens of thousands of dollars on an insurance claim before, you ma y need it.

On a Galapagos adventure, odds are you’ll be just fine, but given all of the outdoor activities you’ll be getting into, it is very important to buy insurance.

I have been using World Nomads for some time now and made a few claims over the years. They’re easy to use, professional and relatively affordable. They may also let you buy or extend a policy once you’ve started your trip and are already abroad which is super handy.

For even more inspiration (let’s be honest, sometimes we need some inspiration to deal with travel insurance!), check out my new article on finding the best travel insurance for your adventures.

The Galapagos Islands are truly one of the earth’s last remaining refuges of mindblowing ecological biodiversity. There are countless species of wildlife found here that do not exist anywhere else on earth. As a visitor to these beautiful islands, you have a certain responsibility.

Whilst scuba diving, hiking, and camping in the Galapagos be respectful of the natural environment. Do not collect, touch, or disrupt any living creature or natural fixture. The entire Galapagos ecosystem is fragile and should be treated with the utmost care.

Have the time of your life experiencing the magic of the Galapagos. Just be thoughtful about how you do it. Almost unbelievably, there can be issues with rubbish on the islands (that’s humanity for you). Always pack away your trash and avoid dropping little bits of plastic or cigarette butts!

Reduce your plastic footprint:  Perhaps the best thing you can do for our planet is to make sure you do NOT add to the plastic problem all over the world. Don’t buy one-use water bottles, the plastic ends up in a landfill or in the ocean.

Check out this post for more inspiration regarding  how to be a responsible backpacker .

Have a wonderful time on your Galapagos Islands tour! See you down the road.

Aiden Freeborn

Share or save this post

Be careful who you are dealing with in the Galapagos.

DO NOT trust Carlos Palacios or the ministry of tourism on Santa Cruz island, Galapagos

Carlos is a fraud. He pretends to be a tour agent by sitting at random agency desks to steal money from unsuspecting tourists. We booked a cruise with Carlos for 2000$USD cash(which is often the case for last minute cruises). The thing is, he never sent the money to the boat company. He then brought us to the ministry of tourism’s office to sign a « contract » saying he would refund us the money on the next monday, which he never did. The tourism agent AND the director kept lying to us just so they could make us wait long enough to the point where we couldn’t do anything anymore since we would be back in our country and the only real way of getting something done is by going to the police and making an official complaint. This being stated, the contract they made us sign is complete useless. The whole of this system is corrupted and you can’t know who to trust. At the end of the trip, we were left with no cruise, no money and so many hours waisted on this situation. We also talked with other tourists who had the same exact experience in the Galapagos. This practice is common on the islands and if you plan on going to the Galapagos you should be extremely careful with who you are dealing with.

For a stress free trip, I recommend going at Galapagos Blue Sky agency and ask for Josué if you want the best service on the island.

A trip to the Galapagos Islands is unlike any adventure you’ll ever have and that’s because this magnificent place is unlike any other you’ll ever visit.

I always wanted to go to Galapagos but till now not got a chance…. Bookmarking this guide for my future reference. Thanks for a lovely read.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

Galapagos Vacation & Tour Options

For your next vacation, galapagos travel center offers you a great variety of tour options to the galapagos islands as well as on the mainland of ecuador. just choose whatever suits you best.

If you want to see as many islands as possible in a self-chosen amount of time, you can opt for one of our cruises . If you prefer sleeping on firm ground, you can also choose one of our hotel-based tours on the Galapagos islands or the mainland . Are you fascinated by the marine life in the archipelago? Then go for our diving tours . For adding some more sports, you can opt for our adventure tours .

Cruises are the most popular choice to tour the Galapagos Islands. Galapagos tour cruises range from luxury class to economy class boats.

Taking a land based tour in the Galapagos Islands provides the chance to explore the islands in their entirety through a number of tours and activities.

See whale sharks and large schools of hammerheads in a live-aboard or hotel-based diving tour. Take a land + dive combined nature tour for the full nature vacation experience.

Adventure travel vacation packages include activities such as kayaking, mountain biking, horse riding and snorkeling. These adventure tours are perfect for active travelers.

Search & Book your Galapagos Tour!

Find the best Galapagos cruise promotions, real time availability and book direct your vacation with the Galapagos Travel Experts:

Find your dream Galapagos cruise now:

Children: ages 6 to 11

Which kind of Galapagos tour is best for me?

Discovering the Galapagos and enjoying the vacation of a lifetime, has never been easier than with the help of our Galapagos experts . Thanks to our years of expertise, we have combined the best land tours , and offer the best cruises in the Galapagos.

But wait… what is the difference between a land-based tour and a cruise?

There is not a lot of difference between a Galapagos land-based tour and a cruise . Considering that the visitor sites will be almost the same as long as they can be reached within a couple hours from your hotel, wildlife will be the same and the experience will be the best of your life.

Nevertheless, and considering the questions that this may arise, we have prepared these FAQs about the difference between these kinds of tours.

Which is the cheapest way to visit the Galapagos?

All of the cruises are all-inclusive, which means that inside the rate everything will be covered, from the meals, drinks (save for alcoholic beverages), to the guided-excursions, night accommodation, and inter-island transfers.

On the other hand, land-based tours not always have everything included in the rate, meaning that most dinners will have to be covered by you, apart from the per person expense of the daily tour and transfers, which does not necessarily means that hotel-based will be more expensive.

In the chart below, you will see referral prices of the average cost per day of land-based tours vs. cruises (in US Dollars):

Will I see the same visitor sites?

Most of the visitor sites seen in both tours will be the same. However, due to cruising time, boats are able to reach some islands that cannot be seen on a land-based tour. This happens because most of the traveling while onboard a cruise occurs at night. Therefore, while you sleep the vessel can reach longer distances.

Is a cruise as comfortable as a hotel?

This is a tricky question. When choosing a good vessel, like the ones suggested by our Travel Experts, you will be comfortable while cruising, anyhow, sea roughness has to be always considered. On the other hand, and indisputably sleeping on land will always be stable and comfortable.

Where does the tricky part come? Transferring between islands occurs aboard speedboats, which can be a really bumpy ride, that can last from 2 to 3 hours.

Above all, these are the most important things to consider when booking a tour to the Galapagos Islands. In order to customize your Galapagos trip, so it can fit your budget and your time, it is highly recommended to receive free-online assistance from one of our Ecuador & Galapagos experts.

Galapagos Islands Visitor Sites Map

Responsible Travel

Based in the United Kingdom, the Galapagos Conservation Trust (GCT) is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising funds for the protection and conservation of the Galapagos Islands. Established in 1995, the GCT has supported a wide variety of conservation and awareness programs.

GalapagosIslands.com and Galapagos Travel Center have supported GTC in conservation efforts in the Galapagos Islands.

Best-rated Galapagos & Ecuador Tours

Darwin's Footsteps

8 Days from US$2,653 p/p

The Island's Secrets

5 Days from US$1,415 p/p

Galapagos Treasure Quest

4 Days from US$1,255 p/p

Full Day Otavalo

Full Day from US$173 p/p

City Tour + Middle of the World

Full Day from US$160 p/p

Ecuador Scenic

8 Days from US$1,498 p/p

Natural Paradise Yacht

4 Days from US$3,245 p/p

Legend Cruise Ship

4 Days from US$1,939 p/p

Infinity Yacht

4 Days from US$3,945 p/p

Customer Reviews

Is not only our expertise and knowledge of the travel market that stand-out for us, but also the outstanding services recognized by our former passengers in their comments and reviews, here and in our TripAdvisor profile .

Traveled to Islands Secrets Land Based Tour Hi Daniela, I'm back in Quito, and off on the birding trip tomorrow. I want to thank you personally for all the organisation and support. David Betram June 2018

Traveled to Galapagos Dream Land Based Tour Thank you so much for all the planning you did for us to make this an unforgettable vacation. We will definitely recommend to friends and family should they ever wish to visit Galapagos or Ecuador. We also hope to return sometime in the future. Terry Bucholtz April 2019

Traveled on the Majestic + Land Ecuador + Amazon + Peru Thank you, thank you, thank you. We had an amazing trip. You could not have planned this any better nor had the staff more attentive, guides were friendly and very knowledgeable and the hotels were very nice. Carol & Craig Bennett May 2018

Traveled to Land Based Galapagos + Ecuador Andes Dear Daniela, I will highly recommended your company and especially you to all the people who ask about our trip. I can’t say enough about how helpful you were. Thank you from all of us, Devon Icaza March 2018

View more Galapagos Reviews

Partners & Sponsors:

Payment Options:

Call the Galapagos Experts

• 1-877-260-5552
• 0800-098-8940
• 593-2-6009-554
• Contact us on WhatsApp
• View more phone numbers
• Request a Call-back

Did you know that your version of Internet Explorer is out of date? To get the best possible experience using our website we recommend downloading one of the browsers below.

Internet Explorer 10 , Firefox , Chrome , or Safari .

Our website uses cookies. By using our website you agree to our cookie policy .

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.

+593 984059770

Talk to a travel expert, book direct with the galapagos island hopping experts.

ISLAND HOPPING GALAPAGOS TOURS

Starting at $663 pp.

Biggest collection  of land based Galapagos Tours

A Smart experience unlike any other. Carefully crafted island-hopping itineraries to explore the magic of Galapagos as a local. BEST PRICE GUARANTEE. We are a local DMC specialized on the Galapagos Islands and Cuyabeno Amazon Reserve. Working only with the best local suppliers, the income from tourism goes directly to locals and not big international companies. 

Acommodation​

Meals as Itinerary

Guided Tours

Yachting Tours

           24/7

Travel assitance.

Smart Travel Tips

Land Tours​

Pick up/Drop off      (from airport)

 Face to Face

Wildlife encounters.

Best Price  Guarantee

GALAPAGOS TOURS 

Choose the perfect itinerary, activities, accommodation and budget for you.

48 different tours to choose from:

How long are you planing your adventure?

5D - GALAPAGOS WISDOM TOUR

5 DAY - ESSENTIAL 

FAMILY MULTI-SPORT

7D - GALAPAGOS

360 "A" - IDEAL

7 DAY - IDEAL

SNORKEL ADDICTS

4D - BELA ISABELA - IDEAL

4 DAY - IDEAL

MULTI SPORT

8D - GALAPAGOS WISDOM  TOUR

8 DAY - ESSENTIAL

MULTI-ADVENTURE

7D - GALAPAGOS WISDOM  TOUR

7 DAY - ESSENTIAL 

9D - GALAPAGOS 360 "B"

9 DAY - ESSENTIAL

7D - SUPERIOR 360 GALAPAGOS TOUR "A"

7 DAY - SUPERIOR

MULTI-SPORT

5D - GALAPAGOS

WISDOM - IDEAL

5 DAY - IDEAL

360 TOUR "A"

7 DAY - ESSENTIAL

MULTI ADVENTURE

6D - DIVING LION

GALAPAGOS - IDEAL

6 DAY - IDEAL

DIVING ADDICTS

10D - GALAPAGOS 360 "A"  - IDEAL

10  DAY - IDEAL

8D - GALAPAGOS 360 "A" - IDEAL

8 DAY - IDEAL

4D - BELA ISABELA TOUR

4 DAY - ESSENTIAL

5D - CRAZY DARWIN TOUR "A"

5 DAY - ESSENTIAL

5D - BELA ISABELA 

6D - GALAPAGOS WISDOM  - IDEAL

11D - GALAPAGOS 360 "A" - IDEAL

11 DAY - IDEAL

8D - GALAPAGOS 360 "A"

Check our diving tours:

7D - Galapagos

Diving Lion

7 Day - Ideal

Diving Addicts

6D - Galapagos

6 Day - Ideal

Relax on untouched uninhabited Islands surrounded by white sand beaches and endemic wildlife. Walk  inside naturally made volcanic tunnels.  Snorkel amongst sea lions and sharks.  Enjoy the beauty of this majestic archipelago.

Walk inside petrified Lava Tunnels!

Inmerse yourself into a naturally created lava tunnel.

Observe Giant Galapagos Tortoises 

...on their natural habitat.

Beach time at beautiful White Sand Beaches.

Relax & enjoy.

Enjoy a Premium Yacht tour to an Uninhabited Island!

Premium life-style surrounded by pristine nature.

Snorkel with unique Marine Life

Such as friendly Sharks, Tortoises, and Sea Lions.

Face to face encounters with Endemic Wildlife

...like the Blue footed Boobie.

Enjoy wonderful landscapes

Volcanic landscapes!

Dive with sharks

Friendly sharks!

We have Hand-Selected and visited each of these hotels. We guarantee by personal and professional experience that you are getting the best service for each price range.

What our customers say about us on Trip Advisor, Google & Trust Pilot

Travel Tips

Prepare for your galapagos trip.

It has a tropical and semi arid climate. It tends to be a rainy and hot season from December to May.  From July to November it tends to be a cooler, dry and cloudy season with daytime temperatures around 24/25 °C.

Galapagos landscapes are desolate, except in the highlands, which receive more abundant rainfall. although in the equator, galapagos tends to have a cooler climate because of the multiple currents that pass through.,  night temperatures are pleasant and fresh at around 18/19 °c but can get cold during rainy nights. the average yearly humidity  is: 79.0%, with an average of 5.1cm of rainfall a year (in highlands). the month where it most rains is in march., galapagos is a perfect destination all year long but weather can vary, so make sure you know what climate is going to be in galapagos before you pack  from december to may (warmer period): bring light clothing, a light sweatshirt, backpack, good camera, sunglasses, sunscreen, a light raincoat or umbrella for rain showers, a sun hat,  and sandals. when going hiking on highlands and volcanos, you need a warmer sweatshirt, a raincoat, and hiking shoes. from july to november (cooler period): bring light clothes, backpack, good camera, a sweatshirt or sweater and a light jacket. when going hiking on highlands and volcano s, you need a warmer sweatshirt, a raincoat, and hiking shoes. optional items: dry bags to put your clothes in. if you have, bring on your binoculars with you..

Health Precautions

Galapagos is one of the safest places in latin america, but its always recommended to have travel insurance and be aware of your belongings. it's also always smart to have sunscreen on hand, since skin care is important especially in the equator., why travel with us.

We are a small local D.M.C. travel company made up of eco-business travel addicts with deep local knowledge, international service and love for nature. As specialists of Galapagos and Cuyabeno Reserve, we can offer our clients the best prices and services for your budget. 

Deeply committed to helping our planet stay green, traveling with us makes your travel a smarter and more gratifying adventure.

Why choose Us?

Awarded Trip Advisor's Travellers' Choice award winner 2022

Galapagos Trip & Cuyabeno  Advisor Specialists

Truly personal service & advise

We plant up to 50 trees for each Galapagos guest

We lived Galapagos and know by personal experience the best hotels, islands and services.

We accept credit card payments with the lowest fee (2.9%)

Local knowledge - International service

Best Price Guarantee

Free Galapagos & Cuyabeno travel planner

Carefully Hand-Selected hotels 

50% of our clients are referrals from past clients.

Hundreds of Smart & happy clients.

Fast response and availability check.

• What is the best time to visit Cuyabeno? Every month offers ideal wildlife watching and great experience, but the big difference between Cuyabeno and other parts of the Amazon is the flooded lagoon. It is best to try and avoid dry season (December-February) as the lagoon may be dry.
• Can I start my trip to Cuyabeno anyday of the week? Yes, we offer a wide variety of lodges with different operations each, so depending on your starting day we can offer a lodge that fits into your travel itinerary.
• Can you arrange my transport from Quito to Lago Agrio and back? Yes we can. We work with a third party company that offers a private touristic bus route Quito-Lago Agrio-Quito for a convenient price. $22pp per way.
• Are all the lodges the same? No, we have visited most lodges in Cuyabeno and know the differences between them. We will send you to the best quality/price option for you within your budget and travel dates.
• How far in advance should I book? We recommend to save your spot at least two to three months in advance (specially during High season from June to September)
• Can "Last Minute Tours" be arranged?" Yes, at Smart Galapagos we search for availability on all the lodges in Cuyabeno. Please try to book with at least 1 week in advance.
• Can I change my travel date once booked? Yes, we can arrange a date change this without charges depending on availability on the same lodge. If there is no availability on the changed dates and you decide to cancel, there will not be any refund.
• I'm traveling alone, can I go?" Of course! Solo travelers are welcome to travel to Cuyabeno or Galapagos with us. We don’t charge single supplement unless you prefer a private single room.
• Can children go? Yes, there is no age limit for Cuyabeno tour, but we recommend it for children 4-5 or more since we will be enjoying walking tours. Children must be accompanied by their parents or an adult.
• Can I pay with credit card? Yes, you can pay via transfer to our Ecuadorian bank or if you prefer with Credit Card for a small extra fee (2.9%, lowest in the market). Paypal is also accepted but fees are higher.
• Do you have clean energy? Yes, we do work with renewable and clean solar power that works from 6pm until 10pm.
• Are there communications & internet in the jungle? This is deep jungle, no internet is available except on one big tree in the middle of the lagoon that catches a very low signal :) For emergencies we do have telephone on most of our lodges.
• Is travel insurance recommended? Yes, before traveling to Ecuador, please get a travel insurance.
• Vaccination and insects? It is recommended to bring a repellent high in DEET. Precaution against yellow fever is recommended althought it is not mandatory to get vacinated for this part of the Amazon. Sleep with the mosquito net.

HAVE A SMART TRIP!

Galapagos Adventures

has 31 years of experience organizing travel to the Galapagos Islands.  We have successfully navigated through difficult times on multiple occasions including the most recent events involving the global pandemic.   We KNOW Galapagos so we can answer all of your questions.   There is a LOT of information on this site – everything from the travel logistics to detailed specifications for numerous yachts and ships.  Use the drop down menus below to narrow your search to specific topics.  Any information you can not find on this site is an email or phone call away.   Click here to send us an email   to get started in finding the tour that is right for you.

As of October 20, 2022 - ALL Covid protocols have been dropped for entering Ecuador and Galapagos. 

We represent numerous yachts and ships so we can quickly locate a number of tours during your travel window in a range of  prices, trip lengths, and qualities.​

If you answer a few simple questions for us and we will quickly find the tour that best matches what you are looking for . 

We will custom build a tour for you that will exactly match your needs and travel dates.   These tours usually are substantially less expensive than pre-packaged tours. Why would you travel on someone else's schedule and pay more when you can travel on your schedule and pay less?

Click here to compare our prices to the prices of a big name pre-packaged tour company.

BEFORE you book any Galapagos tour with ANYONE you should ask them these 2 simple questions to make sure they will find the tour that is right for you.

Click here for a full explanation.

Galapagos Adventures gives back to the environment and the community by donating money every year to other organizations which need our help. 

For a list of organizations we have helped - click here.

Another money saving idea;

Can you travel within the next 60 days?   We can help you find a tour often times at a last minute discount.

WHY SHOULD YOU BOOK YOUR GALAPAGOS TRIP THROUGH GALAPAGOS ADVENTURES?

Here are some of the reasons why you should book your Galapagos trip though Galapagos Adventures:

1.  Our services are FREE to you.  It does not cost you any more to book your trip with Galapagos Adventures and you will receive the numerous advantages we offer.  In fact, often you will save you hundreds if not thousands of dollars if you book with us.  We can build a Galapagos tour that is identical to many of the large pre-packaged tours that costs much less without sacrificing quality.

2.  Galapagos Adventures is always aware of various specials that are being run by the suppliers to further assist you in potentially saving even more money on your tour.

3.  Galapagos Adventures organizes “turnkey” tours. Every part of your tour should run a like a clock from the time you step off the plane in Ecuador to the time you board the flight on your way home. But in the event you encounter any problems, we have representatives in Ecuador who will be there to assist you.

4.  Galapagos Adventures is one of the largest tour operators to Galapagos with 28 years of experience. When you book directly with a supplier, you represent a single client - yourself. When you book with Galapagos Adventures, you represent one of hundreds of clients, both past and future. Therefore you are virtually guaranteed to receive the best service possible.

5.  Galapagos Adventures represents numerous yachts, cruise ships, and hotels in Galapagos so we can offer you a much larger variety of products and services in a wide range of prices. 

6.  Galapagos Adventures is familiar with all of the products that we market. We have personally seen all of the hotels, yacht, etc. that we represent. We know the reputation of all of our suppliers and we keep a close eye on their business practices. If we receive too many complaints from our clients about any particular supplier, we discontinue our business relationship with them.

7.  Galapagos Adventures earns a commission regardless of which yacht or ship you select. Therefore Galapagos Adventures will direct you to the tour which will best fit YOUR wants and needs.

8.  Galapagos is a very dynamic place and things are in a constant state of change. The Galapagos National Park continually modifies their rules and regulations. New yachts enter the market and other yachts leave. Some yachts have great reputations for running quality trips, others don't. Galapagos Adventures stays on top of all of these things so you don’t have to!!!!

9.  We offer Galapagos tours at all times of the year.

10.  We offer naturalist tours (non-diving) and diving trips, group trips and individual trips.

11.  We travel to Galapagos frequently so we are very familiar with all aspects of Galapagos Travel.

12.  We can custom build any type of trip for you including a Honeymoon or an Anniversary that you will never forget.

Tour Operators

Subscribe to our enewsletter.

• About IGTOA
• Member Directory
• Galápagos at Risk
• Protect the Galápagos
• Travel Guide
• Find a Galápagos Tour Operator

Visit our Member Directory for a full listing of premier tour operators who support our mission of preserving and protecting the Galápagos Islands and promoting responsible tourism.

The Galápagos Islands at Your Fingertips

From what to pack to what you'll see, our in-depth Galápagos Travel Guide has all the information you need to start planning your perfect adventure.

• The Galápagos at Risk

The Galápagos Islands are a unique and irreplaceable natural treasure, but they face many threats including invasive species, population growth, and illegal fishing and poaching.

You Can Make a Difference in the Galápagos Islands

Make a donation to our Galápagos Traveler Conservation Fund and support critical conservation initiatives in the Galápagos Islands.

• Explore Our Galápagos Travel Guide
• Galápagos Travelers Conservation Fund

Enjoy The Galápagos Islands...

...travel with an igtoa member.

Traveling to the Galápagos Islands offers wildlife lovers and natural history enthusiasts the remarkable opportunity to experience the world as it once was. Truly a priceless natural treasure, the Galápagos Islands have been called a ‘unique living museum and showcase of evolution’ and are home to an array of fascinating animal and plant species – many of which are found nowhere else on earth.

Visitors can experience the islands by traveling on Galápagos tours offered by a member of The International Galápagos Tour Operators Association (IGTOA).

Because of their incredible natural beauty and unique wildlife, the Galápagos Islands have become a popular travel destination, but they are threatened by a variety of factors including climate change, illegal fishing, invasive species, urban development – and even tourism itself. However, IGTOA and its members are actively working to preserve and protect the area by promoting responsible, well-regulated, low impact Galápagos Islands travel and by supporting critical conservation initiatives and scientific research there.

The International Galápagos Tour Operators Association’s member companies represent the highest standards of quality and professionalism in the travel and tourism industry. When you embark upon a Galápagos Islands tour with an IGTOA member, you can rest assured that you will have a great experience and that you will be doing your part to support the lasting preservation of this priceless world treasure.

Featured Video

Featured Member

• Galápagos Conservation
• Privacy Policy

Deals of the Week   All of Europe's finest   Up to 50% OFF

Galapagos Islands Luxury Tours & Trips

Searching for a top-class touring experience? Look no further, as our luxury adventures of Galapagos Islands will allow you to discover exceptional destinations such as Santa Cruz Island and Baltra Island. Explore and discover new cultures while enjoying top tier services and facilities.

65 luxury Galapagos Islands tour packages with 23 reviews

• Ocean Cruise

Complete Galapagos (Grand Daphne)

This trip was everything and more than I hoped for. Apart from some problems with Avianca airline which is out of Intrepid’s control, the trip ran smoothly and covered all the things it said it would. The scenery and wildlife were spectacular, the crew were very professional and the food was in abundance. Nothing seemed to be a problem to them. My cabin had one bed light not working that I reported and also the toilet seat was very loose making it interesting in rough seas! and there was a broken handle which had been hidden in the drawer none of which was an issue as I was lucky enough to have the cabin to myself. I would query the location of the hotel accommodation and ask why it is not closer to the historical town? EVERYTHING else was just perfect- really!

Classic Galapagos: Central Southern Islands (Grand Queen Beatriz)

We enjoyed the trip very much. Too bad there was a change of guides in the middle of the tour. Roberto and Alexis were both very good but it is natural for a person to make comparisons. They are quit different people in their mannerisms and the way things present the information. We feel the star in the crew was Giovanni, our cabin steward. Always around to help. One day our wet swim suits disappeared only to return all nice and dry.

Complete Galápagos - Eden

• Christmas & New Year

Koln Tourist Superior Yacht - 8 Days

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Petrel Luxury Galapagos Catamaran 8 Days

Galapagos Encounter - Archipel I (Itinerary A)

Galapagos Encounter - Archipel I (Itinerary B)

Galapagos Encounters - 7 days

Ultimate Galapagos - 10 days

7-Day Galapagos Luxury Safari

• Food & Culinary

7-Day Small Group Galapagos Guided Food Tour with Accommodation

Galápagos — North, Central, & South Islands aboard the Eden

The tour was excellent! The amount and variety of activities were perfect.

• Hiking & Trekking

Pure Galapagos (Grand Daphne)

Great destinations and friendly crew, very good food especially vegetables. Almost no questions our guide couldn't answer. The equipment could use some maintenance, and the air conditioning was insufficient for the lower bunks.

Galapagos Adventure: Northern Islands (Grand Daphne)

It was exhilarating.

Classic Galapagos: Central Eastern Islands (Grand Queen Beatriz)

Luxury galapagos islands tours & trips reviews.

Overall, it was great. The guide Johan and the crew were nice and helpful, paying attention to safety. The ship was clean. The hot tub could be a little hotter. The shower handle was marked wrong, pointing cold for hot water, though we figured out on the 2nd day (another passenger told me). Meals were pretty good, but snacks served at the deck when we return from a day trip were the most enjoyable. Coffee/tea cups were not enough - I would have taken a personal mug if told in advance. The last night/morning harbored at Puerto Ayora was very hard for us. The choppy water caused us motion sickness, and we felt swaying for a few days after the trip.

Galapagos Islands Tours starting in:

• Baltra Island (18)
• San Cristóbal Island (8)
• Luxury Group tours (60)
• Luxury Fully Guided tours (60)
• Luxury Wildlife tours (45)
• Luxury Family tours (40)
• Luxury Sailing tours (31)
• Luxury Ocean Cruise tours (30)
• Luxury Christmas & New Year tours (24)
• Luxury Explorer tours (24)
• Luxury Historical tours (8)
• Luxury Boat tours (6)
• Luxury Sightseeing tours (5)

Travel Styles

• Singles and Solo (254)
• For Couples (36)
• Young Adults (9)
• Seniors (137)

Discover TourRadar

• See All Tour Operators in Galapagos Islands
• Africa Tours
• California Vacation Packages
• Thailand y tours
• Yellowstone National Park Jackson tours
• Italian Alps tours
• Group size is between 1 and 15 Amazon in Colombia tours
• Tierra Santa, Spanish-speaking guide (Monday)

Galapagos Islands

Travel guide.

• Things to Do
• Best Hotels
• Things to See
• Best Restaurants
• Planning a Trip
• Organized Tours

Organized Tours in Galapagos Islands

Hundreds of companies offer trips through the Galápagos, and trying to sift through all the tourist brochures is daunting. First and foremost, let me warn you that you tend to get what you pay for here. There are four classes of boats: economic, tourist class, first class, and luxury. The economic boats have shared dormitories and bathrooms, inexperienced (and non-English-speaking) guides, and mediocre food. On a tourist-class boat you may have your own private quarters, but expect them to be cramped. You probably won't have air-conditioning or hot water, and your guide might not have a good command of the English language. First-class ships have excellent guides, small but private cabins with hot water and air-conditioning, and passable food. The main difference between first-class and luxury service is the food; some luxury boats also have swimming pools or Jacuzzis, but the cabins are not necessarily much bigger.

Another word of caution: Don't expect your cruise in the Galápagos to be a typical pleasure cruise; the boats are used mainly for lodging and transportation purposes. During the day, small dinghies, known as pangas, will transport you to the actual islands. Once you're on land, the excursions often involve long, uphill hikes. The Galápagos are not a place for relaxing -- expect to participate in strenuous activities.

Moreover, size matters. The larger ships, in general, are the most luxurious, with the greatest number of amenities. These are also much more stable and enjoyable when the seas get choppy. Still, even the best of these have a slight cattle-car feel to their operation. When you're exploring the islands with 100 other people, the islands lose some of their mystique. Plus, you always feel a bit rushed, because there is always a group behind you, waiting for you to continue on your way. If you're looking for a more intimate experience, you'll want to book one of the smaller yachts. These have a bit more flexibility, and often afford the ability to linger a bit more on the island tours.

Trips to the Galápagos venture out to the high seas, and the waters can be rough. Be sure to bring anti-seasickness medication with you. Candied ginger also helps settle small stomach upsets, and is an alternative to medication. If you know that you are prone to seasickness, you'll definitely want to book on one of the larger ships, which are much more stable and comfortable. Also note that although the lower cabins tend to be a bit darker, with portholes as opposed to larger windows, these cabins are also the most stable. (In other words, it's easier to get seasick when you're sleeping higher up.)

Recommended Tour Operators & Ships

Every travel agency and tour operator in Quito and Guayaquil offers package tours to the Galápagos, as do many international operators. In most cases they just book space, either by reserving in advance or on a first-come, first-served basis, on the set number of boats touring the archipelago. Profit margins are very low, and prices tend to be standardized -- meaning it's very rare for any agency or operator to severely undercut another for the same berth on any one boat or ship. Below I list recommended Ecuadorean and international tour operators specializing in Galápagos trips, as well as descriptions and contact information, when possible, for my favorite boats and ships.

Scuba-Diving Trips -- The waters surrounding the Galápagos offer some of the best diving in the world . If you want to dive here, you have two options: Book a tour on a dedicated dive boat -- and dive every day -- or take a nondiving cruise and then spend a couple of extra days in Puerto Ayora and arrange diving excursions from there. Two of the best diving outfitters in Puerto Ayora are SCUBA Iguana (tel. 05/2526-497; www.scubaiguana.com), located at the end of Avenida Charles Darwin, right by the entrance to the Darwin Research Station; and Sub-Aqua (tel. 05/2526-633; www.galapagos-sub-aqua.com), on Avenida Charles Darwin and Avenida 12 de Febrero. You can also dive out of Puerto Barquerizo Moreno on San Cristóbal, or Puerto Villamil on Isabela.

Ecuadorean & International Tour Operators -- Butterfield & Robinson (tel. 866/551-9090 in the U.S. and Canada; www.butterfield.com) specializes in the very high-end market. One of its most interesting options is a private trip designed for families. The trip provides a wealth of activities and adventures for parents and children to enjoy both together and apart. These folks stay in haciendas and safari camps and pay particular attention to the small details. Of course, this level of service and luxury doesn't come cheap. A 11-day/10-night trip is charged in British pounds, costing around £5,667-£8,333 per person.

Ecoventura (tel. 800/633-7972 in the U.S., or 04/2839-390 in Ecuador; www.ecoventura.com) operates four first-class ships: the 16-passenger dive boat M/Y Sky Dancer , and the three identical 20-passenger boats M/Y Eric, Flamingo I, and Letty. Each of the latter three has two guides for every 20 people, a large sun deck, a bar, two sea kayaks, and snorkeling equipment. In addition to providing personalized service and excellent local guides, Ecoventura is environmentally friendly. Don't expect super-luxurious cabins or over-the-top food, but you can count on this operation having the most experienced guides in the islands.

Galacruises Expeditions (tel./fax 02/2509-007 in Ecuador; www.galacruises.com) runs four ships of their own and can book passage on a wide range of other boats and ships. Their boats range from tourist-class monohulls to modern luxury catamaran yachts. They do full-service tours around Ecuador and the region.

KLEIN Tours (tel. 888/50-KLEIN [505-5346] in the U.S., or 02/2430-345 in Ecuador; fax 02/2442-389 in Ecuador; www.kleintours.com) is one of the oldest companies operating boats in the Galápagos, and their experience shows. The company maintains three first-class ships: the 20-passenger M/Y Coral, the 26-passenger M/Y Coral II, and the 110-passenger M/V Galápagos Legend. The smaller boats offer comparable services to those offered by Ecoventura's fleet, but KLEIN Tours' food is better. The guides are excellent and knowledgeable. The M/Y Coral is the more deluxe option of the two smaller vessels, with a top-deck Jacuzzi and fine rooms. The Legend has large cabins, a swimming pool, massage service, a 24-hour coffee bar, and a jogging track. I prefer the intimate feel of the smaller boats, but on the Legend, you won't be lacking for any personal comforts.

Linblad Expeditions (tel. 800/397-3348 in the U.S. and Canada; www.expeditions.com) is another luxury-oriented tour agency with decades of experience in the Galápagos, and a particular commitment to protecting the environment and raising environmental awareness. The company operates three luxurious cruise ships here, the National Geographic Explorer, the National Geographic Islander, and the National Geographic Polaris. Their 10-day program costs $4,740 to $8,120 (£3,160-£5,413) per person. Various extensions are available, as is a Machu Picchu combination tour.

Metropolitan Touring (tel.  02/2988312  in Ecuador; www.metropolitan-touring.com) runs three luxury ships and one luxury hotel (Finch Bay Hotel), and is one of the largest and most professional tour agencies in Ecuador. Consider booking with them especially if you want to mix and match time on shore with time on a ship, or if you want to design a package that includes a Galápagos excursion as well as trips to other destinations in Ecuador. Their 48-passenger Yacht La Pinta, 40-passenger  Yacht Isabela II and new 90-passenger Santa Cruz II  combine the comforts and smooth ride of a large ship with an intimate, small-group experience, 

Overseas Adventure Travel (tel. 800/493-6824 in the U.S. and Canada; www.oattravel.com) offers good-value itineraries, often combining a Galápagos cruise with time in Ecuador's Amazon or a side trip to Machu Picchu. Tours are limited to 16 people and are guided by experienced naturalists. Their 11-day Galápagos-and-Amazon package begins at $6295 per person, including round-trip airfare from Miami.

Quasar Náutica (tel. 800/247-2925 in the U.S. and Canada, 0800/883-0827 in the U.K., or 02/2446-996 in Ecuador; www.galapagosexpeditions.com) operates five ships in the Galápagos, most of which are small and intimate. Their largest ship, the M/V Evolution, is a beautiful small cruise ship with 16 double staterooms. This vessel harkens back to the early 20th century and features a wonderful aft-deck dining room. The M/S Alta is a regal three-masted motor ketch, while the M/V Parranda is an elegant 38m (125-ft.) classic motorized yacht. The M/V Grace is a classic and historic yacht that was actually the wedding present given by Aristotle Onasis to Prince Rainer and Grace Kelly -- hence the name.

Surtrek (tel. 02/250-0660 ; www.surtrek.com) is one of the better Quito-based general tour/adventure-tour operators. And their Galápagos connections and experience are top-notch. They can book a wide range of cruises and mixed itineraries, and are often good at finding last-minute bargain berths on ships.

Tauck (tel. 800/788-7885 in the U.S. and Canada; www.tauck.com) is a well-established soft-adventure tour company catering to higher-end travelers. They do an excellent job across the board, and have various itineraries, ranging from a combination Galápagos-and-Peru trip to a family excursion through the Galápagos. Tauck always charters an entire ship, usually one of the better luxury cruise ships plying these waters.

Dedicated Dive Boats -- In addition to generally having better equipment and dive masters, the dedicated dive boats tend to design their itineraries in order to visit the archipelago's top dive sites, particularly those around Wolf and Darwin islands. Most feature an average of four dives per day, although some days you may go down five times. Night diving is not allowed in the Galápagos.

Caution: Diving in these waters is not for beginning divers. There are often strong currents, cold waters, and limited visibility. Much of the diving is in relatively deep water. The payoff comes in the size, number, and diversity of large marine life. Due to the nature of the diving here, I recommend taking a boat with Nitrox facilities. If you are not already Nitrox certified, you can take a course onboard and dive with Nitrox tanks the entire time.

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

• All Regions
• Australia & South Pacific
• Caribbean & Atlantic
• Central & South America
• Middle East & Africa
• North America
• Washington, D.C.
• San Francisco
• New York City
• Los Angeles
• Arts & Culture
• Beach & Water Sports
• Local Experiences
• Food & Drink
• Outdoor & Adventure
• National Parks
• Winter Sports
• Travelers with Disabilities
• Family & Kids
• All Slideshows
• Hotel Deals
• Car Rentals
• Flight Alerts
• Credit Cards & Loyalty Points
• Cruise News
• Entry Requirements & Customs
• Car, Bus, Rail News
• Money & Fees
• Health, Insurance, Security
• Packing & Luggage
• -Arthur Frommer Online
• -Passportable
• Road Trip Guides
• Alaska Made Easy
• Great Vacation Ideas in the U.S.A.
• Best of the Caribbean
• Best of Mexico
• Cruise Inspiration
• Best Places to Go 2024

Accessibility Links

17 of the best Galapagos tours

From multiday cruises to jam-packed day trips, there are more tour options than ever before in ecuador’s exhilarating island chain.

I n a world where “unique” has ceased to mean much, the word remains worthwhile when applied to the Galapagos Islands — there are dozens of species found nowhere else living on this Ecuadorian archipelago. The majority of its extraordinary menagerie evolved here before the arrival of people in the 1500s so remain unusually curious; even amateur photographers can feel as though they’re part of a National Geographic expedition here.

Darwin’s finches, marine iguanas and gregarious sea lions are all permanent residents in Puerto Ayora’s port, as blue-footed boobies and brown pelicans swerve black-tip reef sharks while dive-bombing the water for smaller marine life. The fact that wildlife viewing like this is possible in the islands’ biggest town is a clue as to how much wilder things are when you take an organised tour — either overnight on a ship, staying in a local hotel, or even just jumping on a bike.

Times Travel has partnered with Tourhub to bring our readers a wide selection of escorted tours from trusted travel partners. Here, we’ve selected the very best tours that showcase the Galapagos. For a bigger selection, visit Tourhub .

Main photo: Bartolome island (Alamy)

1. Central and East Islands, G Adventures

It’s hard to properly fathom, but the youngest of the Galapagos Islands are in the west, the oldest in the east, and the whole archipelago is slowly being dragged under the South American continent. Essentially, this means that the oldest islands, including Espanola and San Cristobal, have had the longest for life to evolve on them. This ten-day tour includes visits to both, giving you plenty of opportunities to snorkel, hike and, if you’re lucky, meet some incredibly rare waved albatross.

Advertisement

Group size up to 16 Price ££

• Best Galapagos cruises

2. Bartolome Island full-day tour, Viator

For a short but action-packed day tour, Bartolome is an excellent option within easy reach from the main town of Puerto Ayora. Views from its parched peak are so gorgeous they were used in the 2003 film Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World . Once you’ve finished the hot hike and snapped a couple of photos, snorkelling is a great way to cool off. White-tip reef sharks are common, as are sea lions, but the highlight for many will be the chance to spot and perhaps even swim with some endemic Galapagos penguins.

Group size 1+ Price £

3. Galapagos experience, Intrepid

Despite having a fraction of the population of Santa Cruz, San Cristobal is the capital of the Galapagos and the place Charles Darwin first set foot on the archipelago. This tour starts on that remarkable island, but unlike many others also affords some time to explore on your own. Highlights include the raucous sea lion beach just south of the main town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno and the excellent museum with accompanying coastal walkways. You’ll know you’re in the right spot if you see the gigantic statue of old Charles on a scenic clifftop.

Group size 1-15 Price £

4. Upgraded land Galapagos with Quito, G Adventures

Floreana is the smallest of the inhabited Galapagos islands, with just a tiny community eking out a life here. The island’s history is quite unlike any other, having been home to pirates, whalers, seal hunters and buccaneers. Today, a favourite pit stop for tourists is the pirate’s post box. As well as leaving your own card there, this itinerary gives you the chance to meet and dine with some of Floreana island’s residents before going for a snorkel off its white-sand shores.

Group size 12-16 Price ££

5. Tortuga Bay, Viator

Half an hour’s walk from downtown Puerto Ayora, Tortuga Bay is one of South America’s most remarkable beaches. Flawless white sand populated with pelicans, marine iguanas, and Sally Lightfoot crabs, it’s popular with surfers and anyone who wants to feel the rawness of the Pacific Ocean. This organised day tour comes back to town later in the day before going to the Charles Darwin Research Station, where you can learn about some of the extraordinary conservation projects around the islands and visit the strange mausoleum of Lonesome George, a giant Pinta tortoise who was the last survivor of his subspecies.

6. Galapagos island hopping, Uniquely Galapagos

Cruising has long been the best way to explore the archipelago, but even before the pandemic there was growing interest in land-based tours. This eight-day sampler is a good example of how you can use boats to get around without having to do it overnight. Included on the diverse itinerary are trips to the islands of Isabela and San Cristobal, as well as hikes, visits to giant-tortoise sanctuaries and the sensational beach at Tortuga Bay.

Group size 2+ Price £

uniquelygalapagos.com

7. Galapagos and Quito enchantments, Metropolitan Touring

As well as the wonders of the Galapagos, this tour includes a day trip to Quito, Ecuador ’s remarkable capital, to reveal the profound difference between that high-altitude colonial city and the altogether wilder world of the Galapagos. Itineraries vary according to weather conditions, but when possible, tours include a visit to the striking bay in Santa Fe, home to healthy populations of sea lions and Galapagos hawks.

Group size 2+ Price ££

metropolitan-touring.com

8. Ecuador and Galapagos adventure, Latin Routes

Jam-pack nine days in Ecuador with this itinerary designed to maximise your time. You’ll be quite literally breathless at the high altitudes of Quito and even more so at the beautiful Cotopaxi, where you can hike to 4,800m (15,750ft) above sea level. The trip to the Galapagos will feel like a journey to another dimension by comparison, though it too will provide a chance to hike volcanoes on Isabela Island.

Group size up to 16 Price £

latinroutes.co.uk

9. Pinzon Island day tour, Community Adventures Ecuador

Another of the islands easily reached during a day trip from Santa Cruz, Pinzon isn’t on the itineraries of most of the large cruise ships that traverse the archipelago. It’s popular with snorkellers, who book to swim with sea turtles and playful sea lions, but perhaps a bigger prize is seeing marine iguanas swimming in the ocean. The only species of iguana to brave the water, these remarkable lizards confused and entertained the great Charles Darwin when he visited here in the 19th century.

communityadventures-ec.com

10. Galapagos express island hopping, Uniquely Galapagos

If you’re still unsure about spending days and nights aboard a cruise ship — or you’re feeling squeezed for time — this four-day tour of islands close to Santa Cruz may well suit. Excursions include visits to North Seymour and Bartolome islands as well as a visit up to Santa Cruz’s remarkable highlands. It might not sound like the most comprehensive tour, but it’ll still allow you to see some of the islands’ volcanic make-up, as well as meet giant tortoises and possibly Galapagos penguins too.

11. Kicker Rock, Galapagos Low Cost

If you’re confident in the water and have a little experience of free-diving, a trip out to Kicker Rock will be a highlight of your Galapagos adventure; the island looks extraordinary above the water but below the surface it’s otherworldly. Galapagos and hammerhead sharks are frequently spotted, as are eagle and spotted rays. Find a school of sardines close to the sheer cliffs and there’s a chance to swim through the middle, briefly putting your life inside a Christmas bauble.

galapagoslowcost.com

12. Wolf and Darwin, Galapatours

While many of the Galapagos Islands are great for snorkelling, far-flung Wolf and Darwin islands are dream destinations for scuba divers. Landings aren’t possible on these protected islands and with the travel distances involved, live-aboard boats are the only viable option for visiting at all. Why make all that effort? For the near guarantee of seeing vast schools of hammerhead sharks, as well as the chance to meet migrating whale sharks, dolphins and even sperm whales.

Group size up to 14 Price ££

galapatours.com

13. Sierra Negra, Visit Galapagos

Rising from the back of Puerto Villamil, the only significant settlement on colossal Isabela Island, Sierra Negra is every bit the imposing black mountain its name suggests. The active volcano has spectacularly erupted twice in the last couple of decades and smoulders constantly as a reminder. The hike to its lava-blasted rim is mercifully gentle and, with the right guide, fascinating, as the island’s volcanology and unique flora and fauna are explained en route. Look out for some of Darwin’s rarer finches along the way.

Group size up to 6 Price £

visitgalapagos.travel

14. Luxury Peru and Galapagos, Journey Latin America

Diving into journey-of-a-lifetime territory, this mega-tour includes what are generally regarded to be two of the world’s greatest and most singular destinations: the Galapagos and mighty Machu Picchu. The Peruvian leg includes time in Cusco and the Sacred Valley, plus a little time in Lima before heading up to the popular market town of Otavalo in northern Ecuador. After that, it’s out to the islands where guests will start a five-night Galapagos cruise with a final flight back to Guayaquil.

Group size 1+ Price £££

journeylatinamerica.co.uk

• Best things to do in Peru

15. Santa Cruz Island eco community adventure, Uniquely Galapagos

If you’re as interested in the people of the Galapagos as you are the animals, then a tour like this will be ideal. The islands have a population of around 30,000, and most people are either involved in tourism or conservation or both. This tour gives you the chance to meet those working at research centres, giant-tortoise breeding projects, and even the island’s first microbrewery. It’s not all chat: you’ll also get a chance to snorkel and cycle, as well as join in a cooking class.

Group size 2-8 Price ££

16. Highlights of Colombia, Ecuador and Galapagos, Audley

With the journey to the Galapagos from the UK being so long, you may well want to maximise your time in South America with an itinerary such as this 16-day epic. The first couple of nights are spent in Quito in the Andes, followed by five unforgettable days sailing around the Galapagos. From there, it’s a hop on to Guayaquil and up to the Colombian capital of Bogota, topped off with some days in coffee country, and lastly up to the gorgeous city of Cartagena on the Caribbean coast.

audleytravel.com

• Best places to visit in South America

17. Finch Bay diving, Metropolitan Touring

You’ll need to take a boat to reach the Finch Bay Hotel, perhaps the best of the luxury hotels in Puerto Ayora. With a private beach and one of the best restaurants on Santa Cruz, it’d be easy to fall into a habit of just lounging around the hotel, but they also have outstanding diving trips, starting and ending at the hotel, allowing for levels of comfort you simply won’t find on a live-aboard. You may not go as far afield, but can nonetheless expect to see sharks, sea lions and hopefully marine iguanas in the water.

finchbayhotel.com

Sign up for the Times Travel Newsletter here .

Related articles

Best Galapagos cruises for an epic wildlife adventure of a lifetime

About 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador , in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, the Galapagos Islands are a remarkable place to visit for wildlife sightings. You can see flightless Galapagos penguins, Galapagos sea lions, giant Galapagos tortoises, marine iguanas and hundreds of other species found nowhere else on Earth.

The islands are also one of the places in the world that are best explored by cruise ships.

To get close to Mother Nature in the mostly unpopulated islands, you need to get on the water — and land on islands in the company of a licensed Ecuadorian naturalist guide. Galapagos National Park tightly controls who comes in and where ships can explore.

All the ships are Ecuadorian flagged, Ecuadorian crewed and owned by Ecuadorian companies, sometimes in partnership with leading cruise companies. Excursions, often twice a day, are included in cruise fares. The sailings are year-round, and routes are always subject to change based on park control.

Related: My first cruise to the Galapagos: The good, the bad and the absolutely adorable

The cruise companies use various descriptors of where they go, but basically, if your ship heads north and west, you'll see more volcanic landscapes; if you go south or central, you'll explore more beaches and bays. Wildlife sightings on both routes are thrilling, both above and under the sea — where you may find yourself snorkeling with sharks and sea lions.

Bird-watchers may want to do a full 14-night trip to touch every corner and add many species to their life list. For the rest of us, a week or less can provide enough brag-worthy wildlife encounters to last a lifetime.

Choosing a ship will depend on how long you want to explore, how much you want to pay and what level of luxury you expect. It's not uncommon for travelers to combine a Galapagos cruise with land exploration in Quito, Ecuador, the Ecuadorian Amazon or Machu Picchu in Peru. Most cruise lines offer add-on land-based itineraries.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Here are our picks for the best Galapagos cruises.

Short cruises on La Pinta

Metropolitan Touring operates this intimate, 48-passenger yacht and offers popular four- and six-night itineraries. These are a good option if you are short on time.

Cabins are spacious, with floor-to-ceiling windows so you can take in the views even when getting ready for the day or relaxing in bed. Four cabins can be connected for families or friends traveling together (some sleep three). The entire ship sports a comfortably upscale ambience, and a favorite hangout is the sun deck with its hot tub and bar.

An expedition leader, along with onboard naturalists, will guide you through your trip. The ship is equipped with kayaks for guest use, and a glass-bottom boat provides views for those who aren't into snorkeling.

Cost : Four-night cruises start from $5,812 per person; six-night cruises start from $7,789 per person. Small-ship expedition specialist UnCruise Adventures also charters La Pinta. Seven-night packages that combine a pre-cruise hotel stay in Guayaquil, Ecuador, with a six-night cruise start from $10,900; they are available on select dates from April through December.

Related: Galapagos cruise guide: Best itineraries, planning tips and things to do

Hurtigruten expedition experience on Santa Cruz II

Also operated by Metropolitan Touring, the 90-passenger Santa Cruz II is an expedition ship with contemporary decor and comfortable single, double and triple cabins.

When you aren't in your cabin you might catch views from the ship's two hot tubs. Activity equipment includes snorkeling gear (with wet suits available to rent), a glass-bottom boat and kayaks, plus a top-deck fitness room.

The ship, which is operated on a carbon-neutral basis, is under charter to the well-regarded expedition company Hurtigruten for select dates from now through March 2025 and some dates in 2026.

Cost : Eight-night packages combining a six-night cruise with two hotel nights in Quito are available from $11,227 per person. Other options include 11-night cruises from $10,171 per person and six-night itineraries from $5,734 per person.

Related: Short on time? You can do this Galapagos cruise in just 1 week

Yachting with Quasar Expeditions' Grace

Quasar Expeditions has the most historically prestigious ship in the Galapagos market. The 16-passenger Grace is a classic yacht from the 1920s that carried Princess Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier of Monaco on their honeymoon in 1956 (in the Mediterranean).

Reflective of the golden age of travel, it's all about luxury on board — polished woodwork, gourmet meals and service from a crew of 10, plus two naturalist guides.

Cost : Seven-night cruises start from $9,950 per person.

Island exploration with Adventures by Disney on Galapagos Legend

Adventures by Disney offers sailings in the Galapagos on the 100-passenger Galapagos Legend in June, July, August and December in 2024 and March, June and July in 2025.

The minimum age is 7, and the recommended age is 8 and older. The comfortable ship has the rare-in-the-Galapagos feature of a swimming pool, plus a hot tub. When Disney is on board, its trained Adventure Guides lead special Junior Adventurers activities for kids in addition to the usual snorkeling, kayaking and glass-bottom boat rides. Select sailings invite special guest experts on board to give workshops and presentations in their area of expertise.

Cost : Fares for eight-night trips beginning with two hotel nights in Quito followed by a six-night cruise in 2024 start at $8,999 (adults) and $8,499 (children). Rates for the same itinerary in 2025 start from $8,999 (adults) and $8,099 (children). Other companies, such as Go Galapagos, offer three-night cruises on Galapagos Legend starting from $2,113 per person.

Relais & Chateaux experience on Origin, Theory and Evolve

Ecoventura's 20-passenger, all-suite yachts, Origin, Theory and Evolve, are recognized by the prestigious Relais & Chateaux gourmet restaurant and luxury hospitality association, and intimate and luxurious exploration is their calling card.

The crew of 13 includes a French-trained chef, a concierge and two naturalists.

Pampering ensues — even for young guests who are on board select family departures, during which added activities include a cultural exchange with local students. Check out the rare Galapagos publications in the library when you're not in the outdoor Jacuzzi, on the kayaks or on paddleboards.

Cost : Seven-night cruises are available from $9,950 per person. Charter the entire yacht starting at $199,000.

Superyacht sailing with Aqua Expeditions

Aqua Expeditions is well known in luxury circles for its superyachts in the Peruvian Amazon and Asia. The company bills its 16-passenger, all-suite, all-inclusive Aqua Mare as the "first true superyacht in the Galapagos Islands."

The interior decor is by Italian superyacht designer François Zuretti. Also, the Peruvian-Japanese fusion cuisine is by chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino, famed for his "rainforest to table cuisine," which features ingredients grown only in the Amazon jungle and focuses on sustainable culinary practices.

Among the spacious suites, the top Owner's Suite is 861 square feet. The Jacuzzi is big enough for six guests. The yacht is also stocked with kayaks and paddleboards for guests to use.

Cost : Seven-night cruises start from $10,500 per person. Charter the entire yacht starting at $218,500.

Galapagos with Avalon Waterways

River cruise line Avalon Waterways is known for sailings in Europe and on the Mekong. However, it's also in the Galapagos, chartering the 16-passenger small ship Treasure of Galapagos for seven-night sailings in August and December in 2024 and 2025.

All cabins on the ship, including the 430-square-foot master suite, have balconies and are done up in welcoming, contemporary decor. The ship's design is outdoor-focused, with alfresco dining and a bar near the Jacuzzi.

Indoors is a small lounge and dining area. Wine and beer are included with meals.

Cost : Seven-night cruises (beginning with two nights in Quito) start from $6,003 per person.

Expedition sailing with Lindblad's National Geographic Endeavour II

Top expedition company Lindblad Expeditions has been sailing in the Galapagos for more than 50 years, evident by the seasoned team of naturalists and the experiences they deliver, including exploring the sea thanks to innovative underwater equipment.

This 96-passenger ship is a spacious base camp. Passengers can explore with Zodiacs, kayaks, glass-bottom boats and stand-up paddleboards.

Select expeditions feature guest National Geographic biologists, authors and photographers who can help you get the perfect wildlife photos. The cruises are popular with families, and a diving program is available for advanced divers.

Cost : Fares for a 10-night cruise (including two nights in Guayaquil) start from $6,605 per person. Lindblad also has a 52-passenger, all-suite luxury yacht in the market, the National Geographic Islander II, with as many crew members as guests. Fares for its seven-night cruises start from $6,864 per person.

Ultra-luxury experience on Silver Origin

Ultra-luxury line Silversea Cruises delivers everything on a silver platter on the 100-passenger Silver Origin.

Request Champagne from your butler while you lounge in the hot tub. Guests will likely also appreciate the high-tech walls that feature touch-controlled high-definition screens, allowing you to zoom in on exclusive wildlife videos shot by drone in Galapagos National Park.

There is also the luxury of space to spread out, indoors and out, amid gorgeous contemporary furnishings. Everyone stays in a large butler-serviced suite.

Additionally, the cuisine is extraordinary — the Ecuadorian executive chef even takes time to explain the local ingredients he uses. The staff includes one naturalist guide for every 10 guests.

Cost : Fares for seven-night cruises start from $10,900 per person.

Related: 5 best Silversea Cruises destinations

All-suite megayacht cruising on Celebrity Flora

With a design similar to Silver Origin, Celebrity Cruises ' Flora delivers a first-class experience.

Suites include either a step-out balcony or an "infinite veranda" created when you push a button to open the top half of a wall of glass.

Menus are crafted by chef Cornelius Gallagher, who has helmed Michelin-starred restaurants. Personal suite attendants cater to your needs, while experienced naturalists lead stargazing sessions.

Guests on a 10-, 11- or 16-night itinerary can reserve a glamping experience on the top deck and spend the night under the stars in a cabana equipped with a double bed.

Cost : Fares for seven-night cruises start from $6,539 per person, and a 10-night cruise with two overnight stays in Quito starts from $8,139 per person. Celebrity Cruises also offers sailings on the 48-passenger Celebrity Xpedition, a small luxury ship. Seven-night cruises start at $5,571 per person. Additionally, seven-night sailings aboard the even more intimate 16-passenger Celebrity Xploration start from $5,615 per person.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Celebrity Cruises ship

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

• COUPLES & SOLO TRAVELERS
• FAMILY CRUISES
• HONEYMOON CRUISES
• PHOTOGRAPHY CRUISES
• PRIVATE CHARTERS
• EXCLUSIVE OFFERS
• GRACE YACHT
• FREE GALAPAGOS GUIDE
• PATAGONIA SAFARIS
• PATAGONIA UNTAMED
• PATAGONIA SELECT
• PATAGONIA REVEALED
• PATAGONIA IMMERSION
• FAMILY SAFARIS
• PHOTOGRAPHY SAFARIS
• HONEYMOON SAFARIS
• TAILOR-MADE SAFARIS
• Sustainability
• IN LIFETIME BLOG
• TRAVEL GUIDE
• INQUIRE ABOUT A TRIP
• VIEW BROCHURE

• Evolution Yacht
• Grace Yacht

Galapagos Summer Cruise Special Save Up To $7,200 + Free Galapagos Flights

Travel with higher expectations “I had expected a lot from this trip and my journey with Quasar exceeded all of my expectations. I now don't say to people - You should try to travel with Quasar. I now say; you absolutely must travel with Quasar.” Paul Rose | Former Guest, Explorer & BBC Nature Show Host

Gain privileged access to remote destinations and enjoy more privacy through small-group travel.

Collect experiences instead of things, with the flexibility to capitalize on unexpected wildlife & cultural encounters.

As an eco-traveler, you learn more about the natural world, and your dollars protect the environment.

Experience Darwin's Galapagos in an exclusive small-group setting. Quasar's 38 years of local guiding experience takes the guesswork out of your yacht adventure.

Galapagos Islands Tours

Want to explore the vibrant underwater world of the Galapagos from a ship? Do you love the sound of enjoying sustainably-sourced, thoughtfully-prepared cultural cuisine on board a luxury yacht? Are you a photographer who dreams of capturing unique landscapes, captivating wildlife, dramatic sunsets, and otherworldly terrain? It’s all made possible with Quasar Expeditions Galapagos tours .

We’re known for creating authentic, exclusive, unique, and meaningful land and sea experiences for adventurous travelers like you. If you want to avoid cruise ship crowds, restrictive access and average guides, our Galapagos tours will tick all of your boxes.

Galapagos Islands Luxury Cruises

Are you ready to book the Galapagos luxury cruise of a lifetime? Travel to this natural wonderland as Darwin once did and experience incredible wildlife encounters, vibrant scenery, and all kinds of excursions. Whether you want to book a family cruise, a honeymoon cruise, a photography cruise, or a private charter, we’ve got the perfect itinerary for you.

What better way to see one of the most desired trip destinations in the world than by water? Experience timeless elegance with royal history aboard Grace Kelly’s honeymoon yacht. Enjoy a Galapagos cruise in spacious comfort and privacy aboard our award-winning Quasar Evolution Yacht that retraces the footsteps of Darwin.

Luxury Galapagos Islands Tours

We’re a family owned and run business with 38 years of experience in creating and running unforgettable luxury Galapagos tours . From hand-picked naturalist guides to the friendliest staff you’ll ever meet, our entire team thrive on bringing our guests on authentic experiences that create lifelong memories. Join a group of 75,000 happy travellers who have nothing but great things to say about our Galapagos Islands cruises – we promise you won’t be disappointed.

Venture into the heart of Chilean and Argentinean Southern Patagonia in a private 4x4 vehicle. Local naturalists guide you away from the crowds to be at one with the wilds of Patagonia.

Patagonia tours

Are you looking for Patagonia tours with a difference? Want to book with a tour company that specialises in creating luxury Patagonia tours for families, wildlife fanatics, honeymooners, photographers, seniors, adventure lovers and thrill seekers? Love the sound of bird watching, going on a Puma safari, horseback riding, ice trekking, stargazing, and hiking?

Private Patagonia Tours

We’ve got everything you’re looking for here at Quasar Expeditions. Our entire team – from our world-class guides to our experienced travel consultants – work extremely hard to give each one of our guests the trip of a lifetime on one of our private Patagonia tours . We love what we do and thrive on showing off the beauty of Patagonia.

Patagonia Luxury Travel

So what do we love about Patagonia and why should it be top of your bucket list? The region is often described as one of the most beautiful places on Earth and that’s for a very good reason. Book one of our Patagonia luxury travel packages and get to witness endless kilometres of untouched scenery. From snow-capped mountains to deep blue lakes, national parks and fjords, Patagonia is one of the greatest places in the world to visit.

Take some time to browse our Patagonia tour deals and get excited about the adventure that awaits with Quasar Expeditions.

• OFFICIAL CONSERVATION PARTNERS

Get in touch for a complimentary consultation

Work with a specialist to plan your perfect trip

Enjoy the trip of a lifetime

Thousands of Happy Travelers

38 Years of Family-Owned Experience

Voted #1 by Travel+Leisure

The Best Cruise Lines in the World: Readers' Choice Awards

Visit Galapagos Like a Royal

Quasar Expeditions' Overland Safaris

Seven Custom Yachts To Dream About

Vishal and Richa Are “Finally” Doing This as a Married Couple

World's Greatest Places 2023: Torres del Paine, Chile. Puma Safari.

Princess Grace Kelly's Honeymoon Yacht Just Got a Stunning Renovation

Quasar Expeditions' Wild Patagonia

We use cookies to give you the best possible experience on our website. Read our full policy .

• Galapagos Islands
• Machu Picchu, Peru
• Wild Patagonia
• Mainland Ecuador - Andes & Amazon
• Expedition Cruising
• Bird Watching
• Horseback Riding
• Photography
• Walking / Hiking
• Snorkeling / Swimming
• Scuba Diving
• Fly Fishing

Marketing Permissions Please select all the ways you would like to hear from Quasar Expeditions:

You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking the link in the footer of our emails. For information about our privacy practices, click here .

South America Chevron

Ecuador Chevron

Galápagos Islands Chevron

6 Best Galapagos Cruises For Every Kind of Traveler

By Meena Thiruvengadam

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Galapagos cruises are the best way to experience the collection of remote, mostly uninhabited islands about 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador. But cruises in the Galapagos Islands aren’t like cruises anyplace else. The ships here are smaller, with some carrying as few as 16 passengers. There are no water slides, elaborate Broadway shows, casinos, or wild nightclubs. And don’t expect big bus tours in port either. 

Galapagos cruises are about experiencing nature and wildlife while limiting environmental impact as much as possible. Ships are built for sustainability and toting items like kayaks, paddleboards, and scuba gear. Itineraries may feature two active excursions a day, limiting downtime on board the ship. Instead of museums and historic sights, you’ll visit uninhabited islands to encounter marine iguanas, sea lions, unspoiled beaches, and the adventures of a lifetime. 

Trips to the Galapagos Islands are logistically complicated, making cruises an especially good way to experience the area. Travelers to the Galapagos Islands must first fly to Quito or Guayaquil, Ecuador, for a night before flying to the Galapagos to board their ships. All travelers must also be accompanied by National Parks Guides who can help them navigate these largely undeveloped islands. 

Galapagos cruise itineraries are typically a week long and cover a portion of the islands, sometimes more. Here's everything to know about cruising in the Galapagos, from frequently asked questions to the best itineraries to book now.

• Best luxury Galapagos cruise
• Best Galapagos cruise for stargazing  
• Best Galapagos cruise for adventure seekers  
• Best Galapagos cruises for solo travelers  
• Best small ship Galapagos cruise  

Best Galapagos cruises for families

When is the best time to cruise the galapagos islands .

With pleasant temperatures all year long, the best time to visit the Galapagos Islands is whenever you’re ready to go. Several cruise lines sail to the Galapagos Islands all year long. While you can see wildlife all year, December is hatching season for the giant tortoises, and July is mating season for blue-footed boobies and short-eared owls. Sea turtles lay their eggs early in the year and fully formed marine iguanas typically hatch in April and May. 

Are Galapagos cruises expensive?  

The Galapagos Islands aren’t a bargain destination. Expect to pay somewhere between $5,000 and $12,000 per traveler depending on the ship, itinerary, and length of the voyage. 

One thing’s for sure: Whatever your preference, there’s a Galapagos Islands cruise for you. These are six of the best Galapagos cruises for every type of traveler.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

A suite on board Silver Origin comes with butler service.

Best luxury Galapagos cruise 

There’s no more luxurious way to sail the Galapagos Islands than on  Silversea's Silver Origin , a ship custom-built for cruising these islands. Silver Origin is Silversea’s first destination-specific ship and includes several features meant to minimize its environmental impact. The all-suite ship can carry up to 100 passengers, is all-inclusive down to the premium spirits in your stateroom's minibar, and includes the luxury cruise line’s signature butler service. There’s also a salon and fitness center on board, a rarity for ships sailing in this region. Most itineraries on the Silver Origin are seven nights, but longer cruises are typically scheduled around winter holidays. The Silver Origin sails the north, central, and western loops of the Galapagos Islands.

Best Galapagos cruise for stargazing 

This region may be better known for its landscapes and wildlife, but the Galapagos Islands are also an excellent place for stargazing. And there’s no better Galapagos cruise ship for stargazing than the  Celebrity Flora . The 100-passenger vessel feels more like a luxury yacht than an expedition ship. It has a stargazing platform on its top deck and provides binoculars to help guests spot constellations as the ship cruises along the equator. The modern expedition ship also offers a glamping experience that includes a naturalist-guided stargazing session and a luxurious night of glamping under the stars. Prefer to sleep in your bed on board? Have dinner under the stars at the ship’s restaurant before heading back to your suite. The Celebrity Flora ’s Galapagos itineraries range from seven to 16 nights. 

Best Galapagos cruise for adventure seekers 

Lindblad Expeditions has been cruising the Galapagos Islands for more than 50 years. It now sails to the Galapagos year-round in partnership with National Geographic, giving guests the chance to encounter giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, penguins, sea lions, marine iguanas, and more. A staff of expert guides is on board to help travelers spot wildlife and better understand the volcanic landscapes, mangrove thickets, and seagrasses they encounter. Activities include unforgettable snorkeling adventures, hikes through pristine wilderness, and walks along remote beaches. Lindblad’s newest Galapagos Islands cruise ship, the National Geographic Islander II , feels more like a boutique hotel than an expedition ship and carries just 48 passengers in 26 suites. Some itineraries offer advanced divers the chance to commune with a variety of marine life. And while rugged adventures may await travelers off the ship, each suite offers travelers plenty of comfort: They come equipped with flat-screen TVs, in-room espresso machines, and bathrooms with double sinks.

Best Galapagos cruises for solo travelers 

Galapagos cruises aren’t cheap, especially if you’re sailing solo. Hurtigruten makes cruising the Galapagos Islands more affordable by waiving the single supplement on several of its Galapagos cruises. Hurtigruten Galapagos cruises range from seven to 14 days in length and take place on the MS Santa Cruz II , a ship that comes equipped with panga boats, kayaks, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and a glass-bottom boat for viewing marine life. The ship carries a maximum of 90 passengers, and its operations are carbon-neutral. There’s a small gym and a hot tub on board. Regular prices start around $8,500 for a one-week cruise. Look for sales to bring your price down even further.

Best small ship Galapagos cruise 

Avalon Waterways may be better known for its European river cruises , but it also sails the Galapagos Islands. Avalon sails this region on two ships, the Treasure of the Galapagos and the Delfin III . The Delfin III , which also sails the Amazon in Peru, is its newest and most luxurious Galapagos cruise ship. The ship has just 22 suites, almost guaranteeing you’ll make new friends along the journey. The Treasure of the Galapagos is even smaller, carrying a maximum of 16 guests. And while there’s no long list of restaurants on board either ship, there are creative, locally inspired menus featuring seasonal ingredients and lots of vegetarian options. On board both ships, you’ll find daily natural history lectures, a team of multilingual naturalists, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows, and plunge pools.  

For an adventure your kids will never forget, hop on board an Adventures by Disney cruise of the Galapagos Islands. Just be sure to wait until your kids are at least seven years old. This is the minimum age for most Galapagos cruises, though Disney recommends this itinerary for children eight and older. This isn’t your typical Disney cruise. It’s a small ship expedition itinerary with a hint of Disney magic in a setting fit for a fairy tale. Adventures by Disney's Galapagos itineraries span nine days and visit about 15 sites. 

Recommended

Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel

Pikaia Lodge

South America Travel Guide

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

The Best Galápagos Island Cruises

A cruise is one of the best ways to see all that this remote Ecuadorian archipelago has to offer.

There's no better way to cover ground on your trip to the Galápagos Islands than to sail on a multiday cruise.

Galápagos National Park regulates the number and type of tourist boats that are allowed to operate in the famously biodiverse area. This helps with overcrowding, conserving the environment, and minimizing stress on the amazing wildlife of the Galápagos. Many tourist boats in the area offer five- to seven-day all-inclusive itineraries that are strictly monitored by the national park officials. There are also cruises operating illegally, so you have to take care when choosing a tour.

To help you find a cruise fit for your wildest dreams, we've rounded up 14 of the best options, whether you prefer a small ship or bigger vessel, an action-packed itinerary or a casual drift around this remote archipelago in the Pacific.

Small Galápagos Cruises

Most of the cruise ships in the Galápagos Islands carry fewer than 20 passengers. These vessels, typically motor yachts, can't provide some of the luxurious amenities available on larger ships, but they do ensure personalized service, a more intimate experience, and quicker trips on and off the boat.

Quasar Grace

The 18-passenger Grace was once owned by Grace Kelly. She and Prince Rainier spent part of their honeymoon on the motor yacht, and now you can sleep in their bedroom, the Grace Kelly Suite, which is one of nine rooms aboard. The ship sails three routes, taking eight to 15 days, and guests get plenty of snorkeling, hiking, kayaking, and panga rides along the way.

Ecoventura Letty

The Letty is one of the best full-service motor yachts in the Galápagos for value. This 20-passenger boat is a solid option with great service and comfortable accommodations. A trip on the Letty promises a 10 guest-per-guide ratio, as well as dinner with the captain. You get a choice between two seven-day itineraries, each including opportunities to snorkel, hike, and learn about the local wildlife from knowledgeable guides.

Ecoventura Origin

The 20-passenger Origin is like a floating boutique hotel. All 10 cabins are on the same deck, there’s an open-bar policy, and Wi-Fi is available on board. A unique hull design means this ship is also one of the most fuel-efficient in the Galápagos. Like the Letty , Ecoventura's Origin sails two routes around the archipelago, each lasting eight days and providing plenty of chances to get up close to nature.

Medium Galápagos Ships

If you're stuck between whether to book your cruise on a small ship or a large vessel — both have their advantages — one of these medium-sized boats accommodating 20 to 50 passengers could be the best of both worlds. You'll enjoy more space, a larger group to mingle with, and sometimes a wider variety of activities and services to accommodate more people.

Quasar Evolution

The 32-passenger Evolution was designed by Adriana Hoyos, a furniture and interior designer renowned for her work on luxury hotels across the Americas. Its cabins have a contemporary boutique-hotel aesthetic. There are indoor and outdoor lounges, a bar, and a library. Passengers can choose between three itineraries, ranging from eight to 15 days and taking different routes around the Galápagos.

Lindblad Expeditions National Geographic Islander II

All cabins on the 48-passenger National Geographic Islander II have windows, and some even have private patios. The ship offers deck hammocks, Wi-Fi, and food made with ingredients sourced from farms in the Galápagos whenever possible. Itineraries range from seven to 12 days and include cultural experiences in addition to wildlife viewing and water sports.

Large Galápagos Ships

Galápagos National Park officials have set a maximum of 100 passengers per vessel, so these are some of the largest ships in the archipelago. Travelers may opt for a larger-capacity cruise ship for more space (such as bigger hallways and staircases for easier movement around the ship) and increased services like an onboard doctor. The downside of traveling on a large ship is the time it can take to complete transfers by zodiac from the boat to the islands. Also, some areas of the Galápagos may be off limits to larger ships.

Lindblad Expeditions National Geographic Endeavour II

The 96-passenger National Geographic Endeavour II has Wi-Fi, a doctor, SUP gear, a clear-bottom zodiac, a free digital photo kiosk with iMacs, and a spa. Like the Islander II, food brought from the mainland is carefully prepared and packaged to prevent the introduction of invasive species to the Galápagos Islands.

Celebrity Flora

The 100-passenger Celebrity Flora features all of the design elements, amenities, and services of its sibling ships and then some. It has two 1,288-square-foot penthouse suites (the largest in the Galápagos), naturalist-guided stargazing sessions, and outdoor cabanas that you can reserve for a unique glamping experience.

Silversea Silver Origin

The 100-passenger Silver Origin is an all-suite ship with accommodations up to 1,722 square feet, some with in-room espresso machines and mini-bars, private verandas, and butler service. Tips are included in the price. The ship also has a fitness center, a spa, a communal fire pit, and two restaurants. There are more than 100 cruise options, some lasting as long as 18 days.

Galápagos Catamarans

These small boats have a unique hull design, like the dual parallel runners of a sled, that many believe makes catamarans more stable in the water.

Celebrity Xploration

The 16-passenger Celebrity Xploration is arguably the most luxurious catamaran in the Galápagos. Its eight suites and junior suites feature extras like binoculars, personal refrigerators, a pillow menu, and room service. The catamaran cruises two routes, a northern route and a southern route, both lasting seven nights.

Anahi Yacht Catamaran

The Anahi has eight rooms accommodating up to 16 passengers, including two spacious suites. Travelers can expect traditional yacht design details, like polished wooden floors and portrait windows. There are multiple itineraries to choose from, each stopping off at different islands and exploring different parts of the Galápagos. The cruises range in duration from four to 15 days.

Royal Galapagos Cormorant II

The Cormorant II can carry 16 passengers in nine cabins, all with private balconies. Some of the suites even come with walk-in closets and their own Jacuzzi tubs. Travelers can opt for a four- to eight-day cruise with inclusive excursions such as snorkeling, kayaking, and glass-bottom boat tours.

Live-aboard Dive Boats

If you’re a certified scuba diver, a live-aboard dive boat might be for you. These boats are built to accommodate the specific needs (and gear) of divers, and they navigate special routes and itineraries that include top dive sites. The Galápagos is home to whale sharks, hammerhead sharks, spotted eagle rays, manta rays, sunfish, and many other marine creatures.

Explorer Ventures Humboldt Explorer and Tiburon Explorer

Explorer Ventures ' two live-aboard vessels, the Humboldt Explorer and Tiburon Explorer , accommodate 16 passengers each. The Humboldt has a large dive deck, which makes it easier to get into and out of your dive gear. The eight-day excursion includes up to 19 dives and the 11-day excursion includes up to 28.

Galápagos Nortada

The 84-foot Nortada has only four cabins and can sleep eight guests. Passengers can congregate on the bridge, the galley, or in the dining room and lounge. Dive trips last either seven or 14 nights, and itineraries include up to four dives a day.

Galápagos Aggressor III

The Aggressor ships have been cruising around the Galápagos Islands since 1993. The Galápagos Aggressor III accommodates 16 passengers. Charters last a week and include four dives a day plus two land excursions.

Related Articles

Hrmm. Looks like you're using an older browser, which means some site features may not work they way they should. For the full gadventures.com experience, we recommend upgrading to the most recent version of your browser . It's worth it! Honest!

View all tours

• North America

Central America & Caribbean

• South America

North Africa & Middle East

Few travellers make it to this icy continent, but the lucky ones who do get to explore a frozen Eden ruled by the elements and teeming with wildlife.

G Adventures Land

G adventures sailing & cruises, g adventures private travel.

Whether it’s a family retreat or a girls trip, you can surround yourself with a hand-picked crew and customize a tour that fits you all perfectly.

The Geluxe Collection

Our new line of premium active adventures is officially here. With perfectly paced itineraries, one-of-a-kind accommodations and elevated dining, this is adventure at its finest.

National Geographic Journeys

Go deeper into the cultures and habitats of the places we explore. More is included and you’ll enjoy greater hands-on exploration, interactions with local experts, and freedom to roam.

National Geographic Family Journeys

Are you an adventure-loving family in search of meaningful ways to discover the world together? These tours are specially designed for travellers seven and up and their inquisitive families.

Jane Goodall Collection

Step deeper into the animal kingdom while respecting all of its inhabitants. Our incredible collection of wildlife-focused tours is endorsed by the world-renowned ethologist.

Roamies by Hostelworld

The thrill of adventure. The awesomeness of hostels. Get ‘em both on these immersive small group trips for 18 to 35-year-old travellers.

Why choose us

As the leader in small group travel for 30 years, we know how to do it right: flexible itineraries, freedom to roam, safety, peace of mind, and locally based guides.

Change the world just by having the time of your life. When you travel with us, you become a force for good by acting responsibly and creating positive impact.

Together with our non-profit partner, Planeterra, we ensure local communities touched by our tours benefit from our visits in as many ways possible.

Trees for Days

Leave your destination even greener than you found it! For every day on tour, we’ll plant a tree in your honour and ensure that our forests get to live their best lives.

Travel resources

Last minute deals.

Looking to have the time of your life in the next 90 days or so? You can save big if you’re ready to book now.

Loyalty discount

Back home from a G Adventures tour? Submit a quick trip evaluation to save 5% on your next tour with us.

Student discount

Got proof that you’re pursuing higher learning? Then we’ve got a travel voucher with your name on it.

All travel deals

New ways to save pop up all the time. Here’s where you’ll find every hot deal in one easy place.

Bring on the world with small group travel.

Save on our most popular tours.

Got the urge to get away? We’ve got you covered. Check out the tours below, then get booking today!

• Central & Caribbean
• Middle East & North Africa

Introducing The Geluxe Collection

Icy hot deals on select expedition departures.

Depending on your travel date, you can snap up iceberg-sized savings on our Antarctica Expedition cruises to Earth’s frozen frontier.

Antarctica Classic

Next Departure Dates

View itinerary

Why travel with G Adventures?

We’re the leader in small group adventure travel for more than 30 years. How’d we get here? By redefining the way travellers see the world. Check out how we’re creating the future of travel.

Small groups

Join a small group of like-minded travellers that, like you, are eager to safely and confidently experience all the things that make our world worth exploring.

100% guaranteed departures

Pack those bags and don't break a sweat because we guarantee every single one of our departures. As long as it's safe, you're going!

Locally based guides

At G Adventures, we don’t have tour guides — we have Chief Experience Officers. And they are all locally based, meaning they know the area you’re exploring like the back of their well-travelled hand.

Built to support local communities

We have always created our tours by building meaningful relationships with local communities, directly benefiting the people and places we visit.

Flexibility, freedom, fun

No matter the Travel Style, our tours balance well-planned itineraries with the flexibility to do your own thing and make the experience your own.

When you travel with us, you experience first-hand our commitment to making travel a force for good is in everything we do.

TTC family of brands

My Trafalgar

Destinations

Get Inspired

866 513 1995

Shop The Seasonal Sale

Today's Best Travel Deals

Last minute deals, september deals.

These deals won't last long

Save on tours departing soon

Save on top tours in our most popular travel month.

See All September Deals

Popular searches

Domestic Trips

See America in a new light

Vacations under 14 days

Limited availability. Selling fast.

Today's best travel deals

Save now. Don't miss out. 

Offers for travel groups of 9+

Save when you book 9+ guests

Past guest benefits

Savings with Global Tour Rewards

Tours under $2000

Browse our value vacations

All Last Minute Deals

Simply the best and most relevant way to travel

Everything Taken Care of

Value for Money

100+ Years of Travel Expertise

We MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

Looking for inspiration?

Order or download your free brochure

The top 10 'travelling solo' myths debunked

The power of shared experiences: how travel bonds us together

7 reasons why fall is the perfect season for travelling

Got questions? Find your answer in our popular FAQs >

See All Destinations

See happy guests traveling now #simplyTrafalgar

We are the world's most loved tour company.

Ready to be inspired?

Get your free brochure and plan your next escape.

Request a Brochure

5 million happy guests...

...and counting. See what our past guests have to say.

Read Reviews

Help & Info

WE MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

Unedited Reviews

Our Destination Management Companies

Frequently Asked Questions

Travel Updates

Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information

Travel Planning

Get Your Free Brochure

Travel Insurance

Booking Conditions

Trip Deposit Level

Recommendations

Trafalgar Tours Limited is a proud member of  The Travel Corporation  family of companies.

#SimplyTrafalgar

Travel House, Rue du Manoir St Peter Port, Guernsey, GY1 2JH

Selected Region

United States

United Kingdom

New Zealand

South Africa

Copyright 2024 Trafalgar. All rights reserved.

Terms and Conditions

Privacy Policy

Cookie Policy

Switch language:

Galapagos enters deal to boost decentralised CAR-T therapy production

The deal will facilitate in the GMP-compliant manufacturing of Galapagos’ CAR-T haemato-oncology clinical programme.

• Share on Linkedin
• Share on Facebook

Galapagos has signed a strategic partnership with Blood Centers of America (BCA) to expedite the decentralised production of its chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapies across the US.

This strategic partnership will utilise BCA’s extensive network, spanning over 50 community blood centres in 43 states.

Go deeper with GlobalData

LOA and PTSR Model - Gene Therapy For Gastrointestinal Tract Cancer...

Npvm: alaunos therapeutics inc's gene therapy 2 for oncology, premium insights.

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Related Company Profiles

Galapagos nv, thermo fisher scientific inc.

The deal will facilitate in the good manufacturing practice (GMP)-compliant manufacturing of Galapagos’ CAR-T haemato-oncology clinical programme.

Using BCA’s network, Galapagos will conduct technology transfers to various sites concurrently with the decentralised production of the CAR-T product candidates close to cancer treatment centres.

Galapagos will also access apheresis capacity at BCA sites when required.

BCA will play a vital role in coordinating site initiation and onboarding processes, which will help Galapagos speed up its manufacturing efforts and maintain consistent quality across all locations.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

Galapagos’ decentralised manufacturing platform is designed to deliver fresh, fit cells with a median vein-to-vein time of just seven days.

Galapagos CEO Dr Paul Stoffels said: “Our collaboration with Blood Centers of America marks a major milestone for Galapagos’ US expansion by establishing centres for support of our pivotal studies, with the potential to be used for commercial introduction.

“Working with BCA’s extensive nationwide network allows us to efficiently scale up decentralised CAR-T therapy manufacturing across the US, while their established infrastructure helps us harmonise operations and access apheresis capacity.

“This agreement complements the existing collaborations between Galapagos and Landmark Bio and Thermo Fisher Scientific and translates to a significant step forward in our aspiration to bring CAR-T therapies to more patients with a vein-to-vein time of just seven days.”

The latest development comes after Galapagos and BridGene Biosciences entered a strategic partnership and licensing deal for the discovery of new small-molecule drug candidates for oncology targets.

Cell & Gene Therapy coverage on Pharmaceutical Technology is supported by Cytiva .

Editorial content is independently produced and follows the  highest standards   of journalistic integrity. Topic sponsors are not involved in the creation of editorial content.

Free Whitepaper

Cell and gene therapies: pipe dream to pipeline.

You will receive an email shortly. Please check your inbox to download the Whitepaper.

By downloading this case study, you acknowledge that GlobalData may share your information with Cytiva Thematic and that your personal data will be used as described in their Privacy Policy

Sign up for our daily news round-up!

Give your business an edge with our leading industry insights.

More Relevant

FDA grants breakthrough therapy status for Nuvalent’s NVL-655

Il13r alpha 2 car-t by tcr cure biopharma technology for glioma: likelihood of approval, gene therapy for parkinson’s disease by innervate therapeutics for parkinson's disease: likelihood of approval, gene-modified cell therapy to target cd33 for relapsed and refractory acute myeloid leukemia by sichuan kelun biotech biopharmaceutical for relapsed acute myeloid leukemia: likelihood of approval, sign up to the newsletter: in brief, your corporate email address, i would also like to subscribe to:.

Pharma Technology Focus : Pharmaceutical Technology Focus (monthly)

Thematic Take (monthly)

I consent to Verdict Media Limited collecting my details provided via this form in accordance with Privacy Policy

Thank you for subscribing

View all newsletters from across the GlobalData Media network.

Featured Topics

Featured series.

A series of random questions answered by Harvard experts.

Explore the Gazette

Read the latest.

‘The scientist is not in the business of following instructions.’

Glimpse of next-generation internet

Epic science inside a cubic millimeter of brain

Venki Ramakrishnan.

Niles Singer/Harvard Staff Photographer

Science is making anti-aging progress. But do we want to live forever?

Nobel laureate details new book, which surveys research, touches on larger philosophical questions

Anne J. Manning

Harvard Staff Writer

Mayflies live for only a day. Galapagos tortoises can reach up to age 170. The Greenland shark holds the world record at over 400 years of life. 

Venki Ramakrishnan, Nobel laureate and author of the newly released “ Why We Die: The New Science of Aging and the Quest for Immortality ,” opened his packed Harvard Science Book Talk last week by noting the vast variabilities of lifespans across the natural world. Death is certain, so far as we know. But there’s no physical or chemical law that says it must happen at a fixed time, which raises other, more philosophical issues.

The “why” behind these enormous swings, and the quest to harness longevity for humans, have driven fevered attempts (and billions of dollars in research spending) to slow or stop aging. Ramakrishnan’s book is a dispassionate journey through current scientific understanding of aging and death, which basically comes down to an accumulation of chemical damage to molecules and cells.

“The question is whether we can tackle aging processes, while still keeping us who we are as humans,” said Ramakrishnan during his conversation with Antonio Regalado, a writer for the MIT Technology Review. “And whether we can do that in a safe and effective way.”

Even if immortality — or just living for a very, very long time — were theoretically possible through science, should we pursue it? Ramakrishnan likened the question to other moral ponderings.

“There’s no physical or chemical law that says we can’t colonize other galaxies, or outer space, or even Mars,” he said. “I would put it in that same category. And it would require huge breakthroughs, which we haven’t made yet.”

In fact, we’re a lot closer to big breakthroughs when it comes to chasing immortality. Ramakrishnan noted the field is moving so fast that a book like his can capture but a snippet. He then took the audience on a brief tour of some of the major directions of aging research. And much of it, he said, started in unexpected places.

Take rapamycin, a drug first isolated in the 1960s from a bacterium on Easter Island found to have antifungal, immunosuppressant, and anticancer properties. Rapamycin targets the TOR pathway, a large molecular signaling cascade within cells that regulates many functions fundamental to life. Rapamycin has garnered renewed attention for its potential to reverse the aging process by targeting cellular signaling associated with physiological changes and diseases in older adults.

Other directions include mimicking the anti-aging effects of caloric restriction shown in mice, as well as one particularly exciting area called cellular reprogramming. That means taking fully developed cells and essentially turning back the clock on their development.

The most famous foundational experiment in this area was by Kyoto University scientist and Nobel laureate Shinya Yamanaka, who showed that just four transcription factors could revert an adult cell all the way back to a pluripotent stem cell, creating what are now known as induced pluripotent stem cells.

Ramakrishnan , a scientist at England’s MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, won the 2009 Nobel Prize in chemistry for uncovering the structure of the ribosome. He said he felt qualified to write the book because he has “no skin in the game” of aging research. As a molecular biologist who has studied fundamental processes of how cells make proteins, he had connections in the field but wasn’t too close to any of it.

While researching the book, he took pains to avoid interviewing scientists with commercial ventures tied to aging.

The potential for conflicts of interest abound.

The world has seen an explosion in aging research in recent decades, with billions of dollars spent by government agencies and private companies . And the consumer market for products is forecast to hit $93 billion by 2027 .

As a result, false or exaggerated claims by companies promising longer life are currently on the rise, Ramakrishnan noted. He shared one example: Supplements designed to lengthen a person’s telomeres, or genetic segments that shrink with age, are available on Amazon.

“Of course, these are not FDA approved. There are no clinical trials, and it’s not clear what their basis is,” he said.

But still there appears to be some demand.

Get the best of the Gazette delivered to your inbox

By subscribing to this newsletter you’re agreeing to our privacy policy

Share this article

You might like.

George Whitesides became a giant of chemistry by keeping it simple

Physicists demo first metro-area quantum computer network in Boston

Researchers publish largest-ever dataset of neural connections

Pop star on one continent, college student on another

Model and musician Kazuma Mitchell managed to (mostly) avoid the spotlight while at Harvard

Finding right mix on campus speech policies

Legal, political scholars discuss balancing personal safety, constitutional rights, academic freedom amid roiling protests, cultural shifts