Travelers to the Galapagos Islands can choose from several outstanding guided tours, each designed to showcase these remarkable volcanic islands. My favorite itineraries include the 7-day hiking and diving excursions, perfect for active travelers who want to see both land and marine life up close. The 4-day land tours of Isabela and Santa Cruz islands are excellent for those short on time but eager to see the famous giant tortoises in their natural habitat.

The 5-day island-hopping adventure stands out as a particularly smart choice, combining snorkeling at Los Tuneles with prime wildlife viewing – think penguins, flamingos, and those remarkable tortoises. With small groups of 10-15 people maximum, you’ll never feel lost in the crowd. For the ultimate South American adventure, consider combining your Galapagos visit with Machu Picchu on a comprehensive 10-day journey.

Let’s explore the top tours that showcase the best of these enchanted islands.

Key Points

  • The 7-day Diving and Hiking Tour offers a comprehensive Galapagos experience, including 2-day diving and island hiking, starting at $2,300 per person.
  • The 7-day Island Hopping Tour highlights diverse wildlife sightings, with options for single, double, or triple room accommodations, and an overall rating of 4.6.
  • The 4-day Land Tour focuses on exploring Isabela and Santa Cruz Islands, including visits to the Sierra Negra Volcano and Charles Darwin Research Station.
  • The 4-day Galapagos Experience provides a balanced itinerary with snorkeling at Los Tuneles, accommodating up to 15 travelers and receiving positive reviews.
  • The 5-day Guided Tour offers a personalized experience for up to 10 guests, with all meals, transportation, and naturalist-guided excursions included, starting from $1,333 per person.

7 Days Diving and Hiking on the Galapagos Islands Tour

7 Days Diving and Hiking on the Galapagos Islands Tour

Although the 7-day Diving and Hiking on the Galapagos Islands Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the islands, it’s important to note that a moderate physical fitness level is required. Priced from $2,300 per person, this tour includes 6 nights’ accommodation, breakfasts, and 5 lunches, as well as local transportation, airport transfers, a 2-day diving program, and entrance fees.

Highlights of the tour include visiting the Seymour Airport as the meeting point, where travelers should aim to arrive between 10 AM and 12 PM. The tour begins at 6 AM, with a focus on diving and hiking activities across the islands.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most travelers, excluding those with back problems, pregnancy, heart issues, or serious medical conditions.

The tour has a maximum of 12 travelers and requires a minimum of 1 person per booking. Free cancellation is available up to 6 days in advance, and round-trip flights from Quito to Baltra are an additional $525 per person.

Read our full review: 7 Days Diving and Hiking on the Galapagos Islands Tour Review
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7-Day Galapagos Island Hopping Tour: Tortuga Bay, Tintoreras, Wildlife Watching

7-Day Galapagos Island Hopping Tour: Tortuga Bay, Tintoreras, Wildlife Watching

This 7-day Galapagos Island Hopping Tour immerses travelers in the natural wonders of the archipelago, featuring visits to Tortuga Bay and La Tintoreras.

Along the way, guests will have the chance to encounter a variety of wildlife, including giant tortoises, flamingoes, white-tip sharks, sea lions, penguins, and manta rays. The small-group format ensures a personalized experience, with snorkeling equipment provided.

Accommodation is in single, double, or triple rooms for 6 nights, with 5 breakfasts and 5 lunches included. Transportation between islands and the Baltra Airport is provided, along with 24/7 assistance in English, Dutch, and Spanish.

Additional fees include the Migratory Control Card ($20), Isabela dock fee ($10), and optional wetsuit rental ($5 per day). Guests should book early flights, pack light, and follow food safety practices to maximize their Galapagos experience.

With an overall rating of 4.6 based on 7 reviews, this tour offers an opportunity to explore the Galapagos’ diverse ecosystems and wildlife.

Read our full review: 7-Day Galapagos Island Hopping Tour: Tortuga Bay, Tintoreras, Wildlife Watching Review
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4-Day Galapagos Land Tour Visiting Isabela and Santa Cruz

4-Day Galapagos Land Tour Visiting Isabela and Santa Cruz

The 4-day Galapagos land tour provides travelers with the opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes and wildlife of Isabela and Santa Cruz Islands.

This hotel-based tour includes top sights like the Sierra Negra Volcano, Charles Darwin Research Station, and Concha de Perla. Travelers can choose from economic, tourist, tourist superior, or first-class accommodations, with all land and sea transportation within the Galapagos provided.

Bilingual naturalist guides accompany guests on excursions, which include snorkeling. The tour includes 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners, with meals varying by hotel class.

An early flight arrival to Baltra Airport is recommended, and late return flights on the last day are advised. Moderate physical fitness is required, and seasickness pills are recommended for sensitive travelers during boat rides.

With a maximum of 15 travelers per tour, the experience aims to be more personalized, though a non-refundable policy applies.

Read our full review: 4-Day Galapagos Land Tour Visiting Isabela and Santa Cruz Review
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4-Day Galapagos Experience: Los Tuneles, Bay Tour + Extra Night

4-Day Galapagos Experience: Los Tuneles, Bay Tour + Extra Night

Spanning four captivating days, this Galapagos experience immerses travelers in the archipelago’s natural wonders. The tour begins and ends at Baltra Island, with visits to Isabela and Santa Cruz Islands.

Highlights include snorkeling at the remarkable Los Tuneles, a scenic bay tour, and an extra night’s stay to fully enjoy the region.

Accommodation, transportation, meals, and essential equipment like snorkeling gear are all included. Travelers can choose from single, double, or triple room options. The group size is capped at 15 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

While the tour isn’t recommended for those with serious medical conditions, it’s perfect for adventurous travelers seeking a rugged Galapagos experience. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and well-organized itinerary.

To make the most of the trip, travelers should pack snacks, bring plenty of water, and be prepared for moderately challenging hikes.

Read our full review: 4-Day Galapagos Experience: Los Tuneles, Bay Tour + Extra Night Review
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5-Day Galapagos Island Hopping Tour: Los Tuneles, Tintoreras and Isabela

5-Day Galapagos Island Hopping Tour: Los Tuneles, Tintoreras and Isabela

Although spanning 5 days, this Galapagos Island hopping tour provides an immersive experience exploring the archipelago’s renowned natural wonders.

Travelers will visit the iconic Los Tuneles, home to a mesmerizing network of lava arches and tunnels teeming with marine life like penguins, lobsters, and iguanas. The tour also includes a stop at the Flamingo Lagoon and an opportunity to search for giant tortoises at the Charles Darwin Research Station.

Accommodation, meals, transportation, and snorkeling equipment are included, ensuring a hassle-free adventure. While round-trip flights, park fees, and some additional costs are excluded, the tour offers excellent value.

Potential travelers should note the tour may not be suitable for those with serious medical conditions or back problems. With a maximum of 15 participants, the tour provides a more intimate experience, though some past guests have reported organizational issues and accommodation challenges.

Read our full review: 5-Day Galapagos Island Hopping Tour: Los Tuneles, Tintoreras and Isabela Review
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4-Day Galapagos Islands Express Tour

4-Day Galapagos Islands Express Tour

Spanning four exhilarating days, the Galapagos Islands Express Tour immerses travelers in the archipelago’s iconic natural wonders. This compact tour packs a punch, hitting key highlights like the Charles Darwin Research Station, Tortuga Bay Beach, and Seymour Island.

Visitors can expect to witness seals, iguanas, and blue-footed boobies in their natural habitats.

The tour includes 3 nights’ accommodation, daily breakfast, airport transfers, and a knowledgeable driver/guide. While airfare and taxes are extra, the package provides excellent value.

Feedback from past travelers praises the tour’s efficient use of time and quality of accommodations, though some noted slow customer service.

Suitable for moderately fit travelers, the tour isn’t recommended for young children. With a maximum of 3 pickup times, the tour’s transportation services are flexible.

Read our full review: 4-Day Galapagos Islands Express Tour Review
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5-Day Guided Galapagos & Los Tuneles Tour

5-Day Guided Galapagos & Los Tuneles Tour

The 5-day Guided Galapagos & Los Tuneles Tour immerses travelers in the archipelago’s iconic natural wonders and the unique lava tunnels of Los Tuneles. Priced from $1,333 per person, the tour accommodates up to 10 guests and features 4 nights of lodging, all meals, and transportation within the Galapagos.

Bilingual naturalist guides lead the excursions, providing commentary on the diverse wildlife and landscapes. The itinerary includes visiting several islands, snorkeling, and exploring the remarkable lava formations at Los Tuneles.

Travelers should arrive early and depart late on the last day for optimal adherence to the schedule. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for moderately fit individuals, though those prone to seasickness may want to take precautions.

Guests can expect local cuisine, with vegetarian options available upon request. This 5-day tour offers an immersive Galapagos experience at a reasonable price point.

Read our full review: 5-Day Guided Galapagos & Los Tuneles Tour Review
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4 Days Galápagos – Total Experience Tour

4 Days Galápagos - Total Experience Tour

This 4-Day Galápagos – Total Experience Tour immerses travelers in the natural wonders of two iconic Galapagos Islands. Focusing on time-saving visits, the tour offers ample opportunities to spot giant tortoises, penguins, sea lions, and blue-footed boobies.

Accommodations include air-conditioned hotels with private bathrooms and daily breakfast on Santa Cruz Island. Roundtrip transportation from the Galápagos Ecologic Airport or hotels in Puerto Ayora is provided, along with entrance to the Galapagos National Park and all necessary tips.

The tour meets at 9:00 am in the Galapagos Islands, with pickup available from the airport or local hotels. Confirmation is received upon booking, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Children must be accompanied by an adult, and passport details are required at the time of booking. While most travelers can participate, the tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with serious medical conditions.

Group size is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Read our full review: 4 Days Galápagos – Total Experience Tour Review
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5 Days Excursion to Galapagos Islands With Snorkel and Volcanoes

5 Days Excursion to Galapagos Islands With Snorkel and Volcanoes

A 5-day excursion to the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador, this tour offers an immersive experience exploring the islands’ natural wonders. Operated by Galápagos Native Tour Operator, the excursion accommodates a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

Priced from $1,199 per person, the tour includes snorkeling, volcano exploration, and all transportation between islands.

Travelers will enjoy a range of activities, including snorkeling and volcano exploration, with all necessary equipment provided. The itinerary includes 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and dinners, ensuring guests are well-fed throughout the adventure.

While air tickets to/from the Galapagos aren’t included, the operator will meet travelers at the Baltra Airport to begin the program.

Guests should note the Galapagos National Park entrance fee ($100) and immigration control card ($20) as additional costs.

With a 5-star rating from previous travelers and positive feedback on the knowledgeable staff, this excursion promises an unforgettable exploration of the Galapagos Islands.

Read our full review: 5 Days Excursion to Galapagos Islands With Snorkel and Volcanoes Review
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Machu Picchu & Galapagos Islands Tour- 10 Days

Machu Picchu & Galapagos Islands Tour- 10 Days

Spanning 10 exciting days, this comprehensive tour combines the ancient Inca wonder of Machu Picchu with the unique wildlife and natural landscapes of the Galapagos Islands.

Highlights include a 5-day land-based sightseeing tour in Galapagos, with airport pickup and all transportation and accommodation included.

You’ll explore Cusco and nearby ruins, and enjoy a full-day Sacred Valley tour. For your Machu Picchu visit, you can choose between Expedition or Voyager Class train options.

The tour also includes certified English/Spanish speaking guides, 9 nights in selected hotels, and most meals.

While non-refundable, this 10-day adventure offers excellent value, with a maximum group size of 20 travelers.

Admissions and fees are clearly outlined, making budgeting straightforward.

With an impressive 5-star rating from past guests, this Machu Picchu and Galapagos combo tour is an excellent option for experiencing the best of Peru and Ecuador.

Read our full review: Machu Picchu & Galapagos Islands Tour- 10 Days Review
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Recap

The Galapagos Islands offer a diverse range of tour options to suit various interests and budgets. From diving and hiking adventures to island-hopping excursions, visitors can explore the unique wildlife and landscapes of this remarkable archipelago. Whether it’s a 4-day land tour or a 10-day combined Machu Picchu and Galapagos experience, there’s a tour package that can cater to one’s travel needs and preferences.