Galapagos Itinerary: 5 Days of Hidden and Unique Adventures

Jordan Campbell

9 months ago

Close-up of a Galápagos tortoise with a wrinkled face and large, textured front legs, resting on a patch of wet grass near a small puddle. The tortoise's face is partially covered in bits of grass, and its deep, dark eyes give it a wise, ancient appearance. The intricate details of its shell and skin highlight its rugged, prehistoric beauty.

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And it’s not just Ecuador and the Galapagos they travel to, they host tours all over the globe. Look up where all in the world their bespoke group trips head off to and get a fantastic deal on your next vacation. Win-win! BONUS: Use promo code GD300 and get a $300 discount!

Whether you go with Women Travel Abroad or not, just be sure to book everything—hotels, tours, and transfers—ahead of time. Otherwise, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on what you most want to do during this once-in-a-lifetime trip.

PLANNING A TRIP TO THE GALAPAGOS SOON?

Below are some of the best tours, hotels, and more to kickstart your plans!

Popular Tours & Activities in Galapagos

Top Places to Stay in Galapagos:

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Get Your Galapagos Itinerary in Order

Now, the thing about the Galapagos is that it’s a cluster of four main islands, plus a bunch of smaller ones accessible by boat. There are three airports, one of which hosts private and inter-island flights only. The other two have flights to and from mainland Ecuador.

I used Quito as my launching pad (a fantastic city in its own right, by the way; Guayaquil is another option) and flew to Seymour Airport on Baltra Island. There’s nothing to do on Baltra (except for a museum and windmills), so most take a ferry to a nearby island as soon as they get out of the airport.

San Cristobal Airport is another option, and there’s something to be said for the convenience of walking out of the airport right into a major city. But that comes at a price: flights there are much more expensive.

Fly into Baltra Island. Ferry to San Cristobal Island. Tour for one day.
Ferry to Santa Cruz Island. Tour for two days.
Ferry to Isabela Island. Tour for two days.
Ferry to Baltra for a flight back home.

San Cristobal Island: Lesser-Known, But No Less Gorgeous

Getting Around San Cristobal Island

We’re starting our Galapagos adventure with San Cristobal Island. A lot of people landing at Seymour Airport go straight to Santa Cruz since it’s the closest. However, if you’re visiting all the islands, travel will go much smoother if you start from the easternmost islands and head west.

By Foot: You read that right. A good chunk of the central city, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, is perfectly walkable. There’s a good chance you’ll be able to see everything you want to just by walking from your hotel. But if you’re going to see the rest of the island…
By Tour: I am in love with the convenience of booking tours to set up my transportation. With a private (or even group) tour, you’re not burdened with the hassle of micromanaging every detail yourself. Most of these tours come with a private car or bus (or boat), but bike tours are also a thing here.
By Taxi: If you’re more of a “go where the wind blows sort,” no sweat—taxis on San Cristobal are pretty affordable, whether within the main city or taking a trip to the outskirts.
By Bus: Buses go between the city and further out communities and are really cheap (US$0.50 as of the time of this writing).

Where To Stay on San Cristobal Island

For a picture-perfect blend of gorgeous ocean views and luxury service, book a night at Hotel Indigo Galapagos, an IHG Hotel. The staff here is fantastic, with cuisine and spacious rooms rating an easy 10/10.

It’s also right in the heart of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, and an easy walk to loads of sightseeing. I’m talking Mann Beach, Playa de Oro (for sea lion watching), the Charles Darwin monument, and so on.

Modern hotel bathroom featuring a sleek, minimalist design with a floating vanity, round backlit mirror, and a glass-enclosed rainfall shower. The space combines dark textured walls with vibrant green hexagonal tiles, while potted plants add a touch of nature. A glimpse of the bedroom is visible through a large glass partition, enhancing the open and luxurious feel.

A modern, beachfront hotel with a sleek glass exterior, surrounded by lush greenery and overlooking the ocean. A wooden boardwalk curves along the rocky shoreline, leading to a small sandy beach with clear blue waters. The bright sky, scattered with fluffy clouds, enhances the tropical and inviting atmosphere of the coastal setting.

A man relaxes at the edge of an infinity pool, gazing at his reflection in the glass barrier, with lush greenery and modern architecture in the background. The pool is surrounded by a sleek, open-air lounge area with floor-to-ceiling windows and wooden slatted accents. The bright sunlight and tropical surroundings create a serene and luxurious atmosphere.

A stylish hotel lounge with a modern, nature-inspired design, featuring a wooden ceiling with sculptural greenery and intricate circular light fixtures. The space is furnished with plush seating in deep green and navy tones, arranged around round wooden coffee tables. Floor-to-ceiling windows and potted trees bring in natural light, creating an open and inviting atmosphere.

A luxurious hotel room with floor-to-ceiling windows offering a stunning ocean view with boats floating in the bay. The room features a modern design with a plush white bed, wooden furniture, and a small balcony with seating for two. Natural light fills the space, enhancing the tranquil and inviting atmosphere.

PHOTO CREDITS: HOTEL INDIGO GALAPAGOS VIA HOTELS.COM

Must-Sees on San Cristobal Island

San Cristobal is full of beautiful beaches and even more stunning natural preserves. You can go pretty much anywhere and see tons of wildlife, from birds to sea lions to the Galapagos’s signature giant turtles.

Interpretation Center Cerro Tijeretas	El Junco
Punta Carola Beach	Puerto Chino Beach
Galapaguera de Cerro Colorado	Playa de Oro
Mann Beach

A colorful outdoor café with a lively, rustic charm, featuring handwritten menu boards, lush greenery, and international flags hanging from the ceiling. The entrance is framed by a black chalkboard sign reading 'Café de Pasar Coffee,' with a small open-air seating area in front. Potted plants, red lanterns, and vibrant murals add to the cozy and inviting atmosphere.

A charming Mediterranean-style building with white stucco walls, arched doorways, and lush greenery, set against a bright blue sky. Large beige umbrellas shade an open-air café, where people can be seen enjoying the relaxed atmosphere. A tall, green cactus in the foreground adds a touch of the Galápagos’ unique flora to the vibrant scene.

A scenic harbor with a row of international flags lining a wooden boardwalk, set against a backdrop of colorful buildings and lush greenery. The rocky shoreline in the foreground is home to several sea lions resting on the dark volcanic stones. The deep blue ocean contrasts with the bright sky, creating a vibrant and welcoming coastal atmosphere.

A row of parked motorbikes, including a red scooter with a Spider-Man-themed design, lines a stone-paved walkway in a vibrant town setting. A lush green tree with hanging woven lanterns provides shade to a nearby outdoor café, where blue umbrellas and colorful signage create a lively atmosphere. In the background, a bright red building with tropical plants adds to the charm of the scene.

A young sea lion pup rests on a dark volcanic rock along the sandy shoreline, gazing curiously at the camera. Gentle ocean waves lap at the beach, creating a gradient of turquoise and golden hues in the background. The pup's wet fur glistens in the sunlight, capturing the wild beauty of the Galápagos Islands.

A sea lion peeks out from behind dark volcanic rocks along the shoreline, partially hidden as ocean waves crash around it. The glistening black stones contrast with the vibrant turquoise water, creating a striking coastal scene. The sea lion’s curious expression adds a playful touch to the rugged, natural beauty of the Galápagos Islands.

A peaceful waterfront promenade shaded by a large, twisting tree with vibrant green leaves, casting dappled shadows on the walkway. A wooden picnic table sits near the railing, overlooking the sandy beach, rocky shoreline, and calm turquoise waters. In the distance, boats float near the harbor, adding to the relaxed coastal atmosphere of this Galápagos island scene.

Smooth Sailing to Santa Cruz

From San Cristobal, you can take a ferry, cruise, or charter a private boat to get to Santa Cruz Island. It’s about two hours in total with no airport security stress and miles of ocean breeze to lift your spirits.

Getting Around Santa Cruz Island

By Tour: Definitely my top recommendation. There’s a lot to see, but with no car rentals on these islands, you’ll be hard-pressed to tick everything off your Galapagos itinerary bucket list. You also get a guide to help you along the way, which is always nice when you’re in a foreign country.
By Taxi: A perfectly respectable option to get from Point A to Point B, especially for hotel transfers. Just keep in mind that there are actually a good number of places you’re literally not allowed to go if you don’t have a Certified Naturalist Guide with you. Puerto Ayora, towns, and a few beaches are fine, but if there’s somewhere in nature you want to go, check beforehand if you need a guide to accompany you.
By Bicycle Rental: If you want to work up a sweat, you can rent a bicycle (or an e-bike). Just remember, these islands are near the equator, so they’re hot and sunny year-round. Pack sunscreen and plenty of water!
By Bus: Similar to San Cristobal, bus services can take you to smaller communities at $0.50 for a one-way trip.

Where To Stay on Santa Cruz Island

The biggest city on the island is Puerto Ayora, and one of the best places to stay there is Ikala Galapagos Hotel. It’s a 2-minute walk from Las Grietas (really cool geological formation) and a 1-minute taxi from Tortuga Bay.

The rooms are very nice—comfortable and modern. It even has a swanky rooftop terrace and an outdoor pool if you prefer that to swimming in the open seas.

A stylish rooftop restaurant at Ikala Galapagos Hotel, illuminated by warm hanging lights against a twilight sky. The open-air dining area features sleek black chairs, wooden tables, and a cozy cabana with flowing curtains. Surrounded by lush palm trees, the ambiance blends elegance with a relaxed tropical atmosphere.

A modern hotel bathroom with a granite countertop featuring two white rectangular sinks, complemented by a large mirror and wall-mounted magnifying mirrors. In the background, an open closet with dark wood shelving holds neatly arranged bathrobes, a safe, and toiletries. The clean, minimalist design and warm lighting create a luxurious and inviting ambiance.

The modern entrance of Ikala Galapagos Hotel, featuring a sleek white façade with a black slatted door and two large windows reflecting the surrounding greenery. The hotel's name is displayed in elegant cursive lettering above the entrance. Stone walls and tropical foliage frame the building, adding to the inviting and stylish design.

A relaxing poolside area at Ikala Galapagos Hotel, featuring a deep blue-tiled swimming pool surrounded by lounge chairs and lush greenery. An open-air bar with a modern design and sleek black chairs sits under a wooden pergola, offering a shaded retreat. The tropical atmosphere, complete with swaying palm trees and natural light, creates an inviting space for guests to unwind.

A spacious hotel suite with a modern, open-concept design featuring a king-sized bed with colorful patterned pillows, a seating area with plush armchairs, and a mounted flat-screen TV. The room includes built-in open shelving with neatly folded towels and robes, adding to the organized aesthetic. Warm lighting, a ceiling fan, and natural wood tones create a cozy yet sophisticated ambiance.

PHOTO CREDITS: IKALA GALAPAGOS HOTEL VIA HOTELS.COM

Must-Sees on Santa Cruz Island

One of the main reasons you should fit Santa Cruz into your Galapagos itinerary is the Giant Tortoise Reserve. It’s what the Galapagos are named for, after all. For something extra special, combine the reserve visit with the Los Gremelos volcanic formations in the Galapagos Giant Tortoise Experience.

Highlands	Giant Tortoise Reserve
Trapiche Coffee Plantation	El Garrapetero Beach
Tortuga Bay	Charles Darwin Research Center
Los Gremelos lava tunnels

A sunlit alleyway with rustic stone walls and lush tropical foliage leads to a serene ocean view in the distance. Towering palm trees and vibrant bougainvillea frame the path, casting dappled shadows on the ground. A small wooden pergola by the water adds a charming touch to this hidden coastal escape.

A lively street scene in a coastal town featuring colorful storefronts, a rustic café with wooden tables and bar stools, and a red bicycle parked by the curb. Flags flutter above the businesses, including a local conservation office and a courier service. The bright blue sky and warm tones of the buildings create a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.

A dimly lit lava cave with rugged rock walls and a narrow wooden walkway leading towards the entrance, where sunlight and green vegetation are visible. Small lights illuminate the pathway, casting shadows on the uneven surfaces of the cave. The scene captures the mysterious and adventurous atmosphere of this underground volcanic tunnel.

A bright red stop sign with a tortoise icon and the words 'STOP TORTOISES CROSSING' stands beside a dirt road in a lush, green landscape. The background features tall trees and dense vegetation, indicating a natural habitat for Galápagos tortoises. The sign serves as a reminder to protect the island’s iconic wildlife.

A secluded beach with black volcanic rocks scattered along the soft sand, meeting the turquoise waters of the ocean. The sky is filled with dramatic clouds, casting shadows over the peaceful shoreline. The contrast between the dark lava formations and the bright sea creates a striking, untouched natural landscape.

A sea lion sits upright on a wet tiled walkway near a railing, gazing toward the turquoise water of the harbor. Its sleek, brown body glistens in the sunlight, and its flippers rest casually on the ground. The scene captures the playful and relaxed nature of these marine animals in the Galápagos Islands.

Two large Galápagos tortoises rest on a patch of green grass, their dark, weathered shells blending into the natural surroundings. One tortoise in the foreground extends its wrinkled neck, revealing its textured skin and sturdy legs. Their slow, ancient presence captures the essence of these iconic island reptiles.

Two Galápagos tortoises roam freely in a lush, green field surrounded by twisted trees. Their large, domed shells contrast with the vibrant grass as they slowly move through their natural habitat. The peaceful scene highlights the unique wildlife and conservation areas of the Galápagos Islands.

Find Nature’s Playground on Isabela Island

Getting Around Isabela Island

Isla Isabela is the largest island in the Galapagos. There are things to do all along the island, but the journey will start in the main town, Puerto Villamil.

By Tour: You will definitely want to book at least a few of these, because like I said, some places (like, the best ones) are off-limits without a guide. Be sure to book well ahead of time, too, because the popular tours sell out quickly.
By Foot: Like San Cristobal, most of anything you’ll need is right in the main town, and it’s very walkable.
By Taxi: Great within the city (i.e., hotel transfers) or going to more remote parts of the island. Just be sure to check beforehand if you can go where you want without a guide.
By Bicycle Rental: If you don’t plan to go too far, you can book a bike tour or rent one and do some independent sightseeing.

Traveler’s Tip: The evening before you fly home, take a ferry to Santa Cruz for an overnight stay. That way, you don’t have to immediately follow up a 3-hour boat ride with a 3-hour flight.

However, if you’re flying from San Cristobal, consider taking a flight from Isabela’s airport since no ferries go directly between the two islands. Taking two ferries (one to Santa Cruz, then another to Cristobal) is possible, but it’ll take an entire day of travel.

Where To Stay on Isabela Island

There are only so many ways to say “I loved my stay here,” but guys, Iguana Crossing Boutique Hotel is gorgeous. The interior design is a seamless blend of tropical getaway and modern convenience, perched close to the sea for a breathtaking view.

A stylish oceanfront lounge with woven rattan furniture, plush white cushions, and large windows offering a breathtaking view of the beach. The space features a cozy fireplace, a glass dining table, and artistic decor, blending natural textures with modern elegance. The warm lighting and coastal backdrop create a relaxed yet sophisticated ambiance.

A spacious hotel bathroom with a modern design, featuring a large mirror above a dark wood vanity with two sinks. The walls are adorned with beige and brown tiles, complementing the clean and minimalist aesthetic. A built-in bench, neatly arranged towels, and small toiletries add to the luxurious feel of the space.

A luxurious beachfront hotel with a modern glass and wood exterior, overlooking golden sands and turquoise waters. Waves crash against black volcanic rocks in the foreground, adding to the dramatic coastal scenery. The hotel's balconies and outdoor seating areas offer stunning ocean views, blending contemporary design with the wild beauty of the Galápagos Islands.

A serene poolside deck at a beachfront hotel, featuring a wooden lounge bed with a white mattress, overlooking the ocean. A shaded cabana with green drapes and a glass railing offers a private retreat beside the infinity pool. The deep blue sky and lush coastal landscape create a tranquil, luxurious atmosphere.

A luxurious hotel room with a king-sized bed, adorned with decorative pillows and a navy blue throw blanket. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a private balcony with lounge chairs, offering a stunning ocean view. The room’s modern design features dark wood accents, soft white curtains, and elegant artwork, creating a tranquil and sophisticated retreat.

PHOTO CREDITS: IGUANA CROSSING BOUTIQUE HOTEL VIA HOTELS.COM

Must-Sees on Isabela Island

I highly recommend booking a snorkeling tour to Las Tintoras. You’ll see tons of amazing geological formations and marine wildlife, like marine iguanas and blue-footed boobies. Although if you’re a fan of seahorses specifically, try Los Tuneles—you won’t be disappointed.

Las Tintoras islets	Sierra Negra Volcano Hike
Playa Isabela	Concha de Perla
Los Túneles	Arnaldo Tupiza Tortoise Breeding Center

Three pink flamingos stand gracefully in a shallow lagoon, their reflections mirrored in the calm water. Lush green mangroves and tropical palm trees frame the background, with a few small buildings visible in the distance. The scene captures the serene beauty of Isabela Island in the Galápagos, where wildlife thrives in its natural habitat.

A close-up of a marine iguana resting on a textured stone surface, its rough, scaly skin covered in tiny water droplets. Sharp, spiky dorsal scales run along its back, giving it a prehistoric appearance. The iguana's dark, weathered body blends seamlessly with the volcanic rocks, highlighting its natural camouflage.

Two seagulls perch on a weathered buoy wrapped in green ropes, floating in the calm harbor waters. In the background, fishing boats with white and blue hulls are anchored near the rocky coastline under an overcast sky. The scene captures the maritime charm and abundant birdlife of Isabela Island in the Galápagos.

A brown pelican perches on the bow of a white and blue fishing boat, gazing over the calm waters. The boat, with a weathered tarp covering its cabin, is anchored near a lush, green shoreline. The cloudy sky and gentle ripples on the water add to the tranquil coastal scene.

A tropical beach scene with a rustic wooden hut covered by a thatched palm roof, nestled among towering coconut trees. Colorful wooden signs and beach accessories decorate the small stand, adding a laid-back island vibe. In the background, a white colonial-style building contrasts with the sandy shore, capturing the relaxed charm of Isabela Island in the Galápagos.

A marine iguana with rough, textured skin and spiky dorsal scales lounges on a stone ledge near a mangrove-lined shore. Its dark, scaly body blends with the volcanic rock, while its long, curved tail extends behind it. The scene captures the unique and prehistoric appearance of these Galápagos reptiles in their natural habitat.

A breathtaking sunset over a sandy beach on Isabela Island, with the sky glowing in shades of orange, red, and gray. Gentle waves reflect the fiery hues of the horizon, while small groups of people stroll along the shoreline. In the foreground, a private infinity pool and lush greenery add to the tranquil, tropical setting.

Step One: 5 Day Galapagos Itinerary. Step Two…

My Galapagos Islands itinerary isn’t checked off with just this. Check out some of my other island adventure posts about the Azores’ stunning ocean views, or learn about some beach towns in Portugal.