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Planning a trip to the Galapagos Islands? You’re in the right place!
The Galapagos Islands are truly one of a kind. Imagine giant tortoises plodding along leafy trails, sea lions stretched out on sandy beaches, and waters alive with colorful fish and curious reef sharks. It feels like stepping into another world. With so much to see and do, though, it can feel overwhelming to plan it all into one trip.
On our last visit, we explored the islands from coast to coast and followed this exact itinerary based in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island. It gave us the perfect balance of island-hopping adventures, unforgettable snorkeling, and relaxed evenings by the water—and now we’re sharing it with you so you can experience the very best of the Galapagos without the stress of planning.
Ready to get started? Let’s go!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did on the Galapagos Islands was this full-day tour to Isabela Island! From sharks and penguins at Las Tintoreras to giant tortoises at the breeding center, it perfectly captured Isabela’s wild beauty.
Itinerary Overview
Touching down in the Galapagos is a thrill in itself! A quick hop on the ferry from Isla Baltra to Santa Cruz, followed by an hour’s taxi to Puerto Ayora, and you’ve found your home base for this trip. The town has an easygoing rhythm, where everything is walkable or just a short taxi ride away, and day trips open the door to nearby islands bursting with wildlife. It’s a flexible way to travel, often more affordable than cruises, and still gives access to all the best sites with knowledgeable guides.
The first five days are filled with classic Galapagos moments: snorkeling alongside playful sea lions, wandering through lush highlands with giant tortoises, and even discovering otherworldly lava tunnels. We’ve also included a couple of extra bonus days, where there’s room to slow down, add in more island-hopping, and soak up those golden sunsets on the water.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what to expect in the five to seven-day itinerary:
Day 1: Take a full-day trip to Isabela Island, spotting penguins, blue-footed boobies, and sea lions around Tintorera Islet before enjoying a relaxed evening back in Puerto Ayora.
Day 2: Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, grab a light lunch, then cycle out to see giant tortoises and lava tunnels before ending the night by the pier.
Day 3: Head out on a land-and-sea adventure to San Cristóbal Island, where snorkeling and wildlife encounters fill the day before a waterfront dinner.
Day 4: Spend the day exploring Floreana Island with snorkeling and fishing, then sample fresh local flavors along Charles Binford Street.
Day 5: Discover the dramatic Los Gemelos craters in the highlands, enjoy ceviche in town, and join a relaxed afternoon tour to Las Grietas and other Santa Cruz sights.
Day 6: Snorkel the crystal-clear waters of Santa Fe Island, then wind down with sunset at Tortuga Bay and dinner at a cozy local spot.
Day 7: Cap things off with a day trip to Isla Pinzón for more snorkeling and wildlife, then spend your last evening strolling Puerto Ayora or watching the sun set one last time.
Day 1
Full-day – Take a day trip to Isabela Island and spot wildlife in Tintorera Islet
We kicked off our Galapagos adventure with this full-day tour to Isabela Island, the largest in the archipelago. Formed by six volcanoes and teeming with wildlife, Isabela feels raw and untamed, with black lava fields, lush wetlands, and endless stretches of palm-fringed beaches. Just offshore sits Tintorera Islet, a tiny volcanic outcrop where whitetip reef sharks rest in clear channels and penguins shuffle across the rocks.
Our day started bright and early at 6:15 am with a scenic boat ride across turquoise waters from Santa Cruz. Our first stop was Las Tintoreras, where sharks glided through the channel and sea lions darted playfully in the shallows— it felt like stepping into a nature documentary!
The day didn’t slow down after that. We walked through peaceful wetlands shaded by mangroves, spotting flamingos wading in bright pink against the lagoons. Lunch was served at a simple beachside restaurant, where the fresh Ecuadorian flavors hit the spot after a morning packed with adventure.
In the afternoon, we wandered the wide, palm-lined Playa Puerto Villamil before finishing at the Arnaldo Tupiza Breeding Centre. Watching giant tortoises at every stage of life, from tiny hatchlings to a 200-year-old elder, was the perfect way to round out the experience. By the time you return to Santa Cruz around 4:30 pm, you’ll have seen Isabela in all its glory, from sharks and penguins to flamingos and tortoises.
It’s a long but unforgettable day—the kind of experience that reminds you why the Galapagos is truly one of the most remarkable places on earth! But don’t just take our word for it—scroll through the glowing five-star reviews here and you’ll see why this tour is such a favorite!
Check availability and book your Isabela Island adventure here!
Dinner – Santa Cruz Brewery
Santa Cruz Brewery is exactly the kind of spot we craved after a long day out on the water, laid-back, welcoming, and buzzing with good energy. Their locally crafted brews are the highlight, with a rotating selection that pairs perfectly with hearty pub favorites.
We went for a classic burger and fries, though the seafood dishes here are just as tempting, especially if you’re still in the mood for island flavors! Since it stays open late, it’s easy to head back to your hotel for a quick shower before making your way here.
We loved how casual it felt, the kind of place where flip-flops fit right in and a second round feels almost mandatory. With a cold pint in hand and good food to match, it’s the perfect way to toast your first day in the Galapagos!
Day 2
Breakfast – 1835 Restaurant & Coffee
We started our second day at 1835 Restaurant & Coffee, a bright and welcoming spot right in the center of Puerto Ayora. Opening at 7 am, it’s ideal if you’re ready to get moving early. The coffee here is strong and smooth, and the menu offers everything from fresh smoothie bowls to hearty breakfast plates, just what’s needed before a morning of exploring.
Its location makes it extra convenient, sitting only a 12-minute walk from the Charles Darwin Research Station. It’s an easy place to linger over a cappuccino or grab a quick bite before heading out into the day.
Morning – Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station
The Charles Darwin Research Station is one of the most meaningful stops in Puerto Ayora, and it’s completely free to visit. Founded in 1964, the station has been at the heart of conservation in the Galapagos for decades, working to protect native species and restore fragile ecosystems.
Aim to set aside about 1.5 to 2 hours to wander through the exhibits, where giant tortoises and land iguanas are part of ongoing conservation programs that protect the unique species of the Galapagos.
Seeing the different life stages of the tortoises up close, from tiny hatchlings to hefty adults, really brings home how vital this work is for the islands’ future!
If you finish with time to spare, there are two easy add-ons nearby. A short walk leads to La Ratonera beach, where wild iguanas sprawl across the rocks like little prehistoric dragons. Or, head toward the fishing pier to watch local fishermen unload their catch, often with pelicans and sea lions hanging around, hoping for a snack. It’s a lively glimpse of daily life on the islands.
Lunch – Galapagos Deli
Just a five-minute walk from the fishing pier, Galapagos Deli is the perfect stop for a casual midday bite. The menu is simple but delicious, with wood-fired pizzas, fresh sandwiches, and homemade ice cream that hits the spot on a warm afternoon. Portions aren’t heavy, which makes it ideal if you’re saving energy for the afternoon’s adventures.
What makes this spot even better is its location, only a 5-minute stroll from where the afternoon tour meets. That means there’s no need to rush, and you can linger over lunch before heading off to explore more of Santa Cruz.
Afternoon – Explore Santa Cruz by bicycle, see giant tortoises, and lava tunnels
By the time the afternoon rolls around, the best way to shake off the morning is to hop on two wheels and head into the highlands. We booked this guided bike tour at 1 pm, which blends a bit of adventure with some of Santa Cruz’s most unforgettable sights, from giant tortoises roaming freely to lava tunnels carved deep into the earth.
We met at San Francisco Park in Puerto Ayora to pick up our bikes before catching a short bus ride to the highlands. From there, the real fun began: coasting downhill through a forest teeming with endemic plants and birds, with Darwin’s finches flitting across the path. It wasn’t long before we spotted a giant tortoise, lumbering slowly across the trail, a moment that made the ride feel instantly magical.
Julio, our naturalist guide with decades of experience, led us into two incredible lava tunnels. Stalactites and stalagmites still forming told the story of how these islands were born, and with a bit of luck, we even caught sight of the barn owl that calls the cave home. Afterward, fresh juice from the reserve’s fruit trees was the perfect pick-me-up.
The final stretch brought us to Laguna de las Ninfas, a peaceful seawater lagoon surrounded by mangroves. Strolling along the wooden walkway, there was a beautiful contrast to the afternoon’s ride, a chance to slow down and soak in the quiet. The tour wrapped up by 5:30 pm, leaving plenty of time to head back into town for dinner by the water.
Check out five-star reviews and book with FREE cancellation here!
Dinner – Isla Grill
After pedaling past giant tortoises and ducking into lava tunnels, our legs were ready for a break, and our stomachs were calling the shots. Luckily, Isla Grill was only a 10-minute walk away, and it delivered exactly what we were craving—good food, cold drinks, and a front-row seat to the waterfront.
The menu is a mix of fresh seafood and grilled favorites. We tried the tuna steak and weren’t disappointed, but even the simple ceviche is worth ordering. Pair it with one of their house beverages and you’ve got the perfect reward after a day packed with adventure. Just keep in mind that Isla Grill is closed on Tuesdays.
Evening – Walk along the Puerto Ayora Pier
After dinner, the Puerto Ayora Pier is the perfect place for a slow evening stroll. The pier is beautifully lit at night, and the glow on the water makes it easy to spot all kinds of marine life just below the surface. Sharks and rays glide through the shallows, schools of fish flicker past, and pelicans swoop down into the water for their own late-night feast.
It’s a relaxed and social spot, with both locals and travelers sticking around to watch the show. Ending the day here feels like a reminder that in the Galapagos, the wildlife never really goes to sleep.
Day 3
Full day – Land and sea tour of San Cristobal Island
We kicked off our third day with a full-day land and sea tour of San Cristóbal, the easternmost island in the archipelago and the first on which Charles Darwin set foot back in 1835. Today, it’s the political capital of the Galapagos, home to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, and, famously, the island with the largest sea lion population.
Really, they’re everywhere here! Lounging on park benches, crowding the beaches, and barking from the shallows. Add in rugged coastlines, coral beaches, and bird colonies filling the skies, and San Cristóbal feels like the perfect mix of wild and welcoming.
Our day began at 6 am with a scenic speedboat ride from Puerto Ayora across open waters. Arriving in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno set the tone right away: sea lions sprawled across the pier as if they owned the place. From there, our guide led us on a private walk through native vegetation to Punta Carola, a coral beach dotted with newborn sea lion pups tumbling in the surf. It felt like one of those quintessential Galapagos moments!
After lunch at a local restaurant, the final stop of the day took us to La Lobería, a white-sand bay framed by black lava rock. The nickname “sea lion kindergarten” couldn’t be more accurate—pups crowded the shore, napping, wrestling, and calling for their mothers returning from the sea. Along the walk, we also spotted marine iguanas sunning themselves on the rocks and boobies diving headfirst into the waves just offshore.
By the time we returned to Santa Cruz, we were convinced San Cristóbal is the ultimate sea lion paradise. Between the pups at play, the bustling birdlife, and the rugged beauty of the coastline, this day left us with some of the most unforgettable memories of our entire Galapagos trip!
Check availability and join this popular San Cristóbal land and sea tour here!
Dinner – Almar
After a full day of sea lion encounters and snorkeling San Cristóbal’s turquoise bays, winding down with a refined meal feels just right. Almar sits right on the waterfront in Puerto Ayora, and the setting couldn’t be lovelier, soft ocean breezes, the sound of waves, and tables that practically spill onto the shore.
The menu leans toward elevated seafood and Ecuadorian flavors with plenty of creative twists. Fresh-caught fish is always a standout, and the ceviche here comes beautifully presented. Pair it with a glass of wine or a crisp cocktail, and it’s the kind of dinner that makes you slow down and savor every bite. After the high-energy adventure of the day, Almar delivers the perfect dose of calm.
Day 4
Full day – Visit the remote Floreana Island for snorkeling and fishing
Floreana is the most remote of the inhabited Galapagos Islands, with only about 150 residents and a history of pirates, settlers, and shipwreck tales that add to its allure. Its isolation makes it feel different from the other islands, quieter, wilder, and almost secretive. We decided to visit as part of this full-day tour, and we’re so glad we did!
Departing Puerto Ayora at 7 am, our first stop was Enderby Islet, where sea lions lounged on the rocks and frigatebirds soared overhead. Snorkeling here felt like entering a hidden world: colorful fish darted between the reef, sea turtles cruised by unbothered, and playful sea lions zipped right up to check us out. Anyone wanting to fish could try their luck too, with yellowfin tuna being the most sought-after catch!
Next came a wet landing at Cormorant Point, home to a green-sand beach shimmering with olivine crystals. A short trail led us to a lagoon where flamingos fed against the dramatic backdrop of volcanic cones. Along the way, marine iguanas sunned themselves on black rock and herons stalked the shallows.
On the return, the boat passed Devil’s Crown, a jagged volcanic crater rising from the sea like something out of a storybook. By the time we arrived back in Puerto Ayora around 4 pm, we were tired, but full to the brim with amazing stories and new memories!
Check availability and book your Floreana Island adventure here!
Dinner – Charles Binford Street
After a day out on Floreana, the best way to wrap things up is with a casual food adventure along Charles Binford Street. As the sun sets, the whole stretch comes alive with local kiosks and food stalls, each one serving up fresh seafood and Ecuadorian classics at picnic-style tables.
We went straight for the grilled fish, which was cooked right in front of us and served with simple sides that let the flavors shine. Other stalls dished out lobster, shrimp, and ceviche piled high, and the atmosphere felt lively but laid-back, families, travelers, and locals all tucking into dinner side by side.
This is the perfect place to mix and match plates, grab an ice-cold beer, and spend the evening people-watching while enjoying some of the freshest seafood on the island.
Day 5
Breakfast – Bowl Acai Bar
For something light and refreshing, Bowl Acai Bar is a sweet way to start the day! Opening at 7:30 am in central Puerto Ayora, this spot is all about colorful smoothie bowls topped with fresh island fruit, crunchy granola, and a drizzle of honey. It’s a healthy pick that still feels like a treat, especially with options like passionfruit or mango that taste straight from the tropics.
The laid-back café vibe makes it easy to linger with a coffee or juice, but it’s just as handy if you want to grab something quick before heading into the highlands for the morning’s adventure.
Morning – See Los Gemelos
A short 20-minute drive north of Puerto Ayora will bring you to Los Gemelos, or the Twin Craters, two massive sinkholes formed by the collapse of volcanic chambers. Surrounded by lush scalesia forest, the area feels like a different side of Santa Cruz, cooler and greener than the coastal town below.
The misty highlands create a refreshing change of pace after so many days on the water! It’s also easy to explore without a guide, and you’ve got two ways to get there: rent a bicycle for a bit of a workout or hop in a taxi for the quick and simple route (drivers usually wait while you visit).
Plan on spending about an hour here, walking the short scenic trails around the rims and stopping at a few lookout points. Keep an eye out for birdlife too, with Darwin’s finches, vermilion flycatchers, and other species darting through the canopy, making it as lively as it is peaceful!
Lunch – La Cevicheria
Back in Puerto Ayora, La Cevicheria is the go-to spot for some of the freshest ceviche on the island. The menu is straightforward but delicious, with shrimp, fish, and mixed seafood options piled high with lime, onions, and cilantro. It’s quick and casual, which makes it perfect for a midday bite between activities.
We especially enjoyed the tangy shrimp ceviche, paired with a cold drink to cut through the heat of the day. Since the afternoon tour includes hotel pickup, it’s easy to finish lunch here and then head back to your room for a short break before the next adventure. Make sure to note that La Cevicheria is closed on Mondays, so be sure to plan ahead.
Afternoon – Visit Las Grietas and other Santa Cruz sights
After several full-on days of island hopping, we were ready for something a little gentler, and this half-day bay tour around Santa Cruz was just the ticket. It blends a handful of highlights into a leisurely afternoon, giving plenty of time to swim, snorkel, and still be back in town by early evening. For the perfect pace, it’s best to book the afternoon slot from 2 pm to 5 pm, which includes hotel pickup.
The adventure began with a quick ride out to La Lobería, a small islet where sea lions greeted us both on shore and underwater. Snorkeling here was playful and lively, with pups darting around as if they were showing off. From there, the boat carried us to Punta Estrada, where blue-footed boobies and pelicans watched from the cliffs.
We continued on to Playa de los Perros (“Dog Beach”), a dramatic stretch of black lava rock crawling with marine iguanas. The contrast of volcanic rock, turquoise water, and flashes of bright red sesuvium plants made it feel like a scene you’d only find in the Galapagos.
The last stop, and the most iconic, was Las Grietas. Swimming through this long, narrow crevice of crystal-clear water surrounded by sheer rock walls was both refreshing and unforgettable. On the way back, we drifted past the Channel of Love and Shark Channel, where reef sharks often glide below the surface, a quiet finale to an easygoing afternoon.
This half-day bay tour is the perfect way to slow down without missing out on the magic of Santa Cruz. It’s relaxing, memorable, and consistently praised by travelers—check out the five-star reviews here and you’ll see why it’s such a favorite!
Check availability and reserve your Santa Cruz half-day tour here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Dinner – The Rock Galapagos
After an easygoing afternoon on the bay tour, The Rock Galapagos is a great place to settle in for the evening. This long-time favorite in Puerto Ayora has the feel of a polished bistro but keeps the island’s laid-back spirit intact. Just keep in mind they’re closed on Sundays.
The menu leans heavily on fresh seafood; their tuna tartare and lobster dishes are standouts, but there are plenty of hearty options for meat lovers, too. The drinks here deserve a mention as well; we tried a passionfruit concoction that hit all the right notes. With its cozy yet lively vibe, The Rock strikes a perfect balance between casual and upscale!
Evening – Grab drinks at TJ
Conveniently located right next door to The Rock, TJ is the perfect spot to end the night. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, with bartenders who know how to mix a great drink, whether you’re after something classic or with a tropical twist.
It’s easy to linger here, swapping stories with fellow travelers or simply soaking up the lively buzz of Puerto Ayora after dark. After a full day of exploring, TJ makes for an effortless and fun final stop before heading back to your hotel.
Day 6
Full day – Experience the best snorkeling on Santa Fe Island
On this full-day tour to Santa Fe Island, we had the chance to do one of the most unforgettable things in the Galapagos—swim with sea lions. Just under an hour from Puerto Ayora, Santa Fe’s calm turquoise bay is often described as one of the best snorkeling spots in the entire archipelago. The younger sea lions here are especially playful, darting and twirling right alongside snorkelers in a way that feels surreal and magical.
The tour departs at 8 am, making the short journey across open water before anchoring in the bay. With snorkel gear provided, we spent the morning exploring the underwater world, where sea turtles glide past, eagle rays sweep gracefully along the sand, and schools of colorful fish flash in every direction.
After a freshly prepared lunch on board, the boat lands at Hidden Beach, a pristine stretch of white sand framed by lava rocks and tall cacti. You can stretch out in the sun or join your guide on a short walk to spot marine iguanas and pelicans around the mangroves. On the return, there’s even the chance to try your hand at fishing.
Running from 8 am to 3 pm (not available Tuesdays or Fridays), this tour is a day of pure Galapagos magic both above and below the water.
Check out their glowing reviews and book this popular tour here!
Evening – See the sunset at Tortuga Bay
After a day of snorkeling adventures, Tortuga Bay is the perfect place to slow down and watch the sun dip into the horizon. Just a short 15-minute drive and walk from Puerto Ayora, the beach is known for its sweeping stretch of white sand and calm waters framed by mangroves.
The sunsets here are consistently stunning, with golden light spilling across the bay, seabirds gliding overhead, and the gentle sound of waves setting the mood. Since the sun sets around 6 to 6:15 pm year-round, it’s easy to time your visit after the tour. Ask your taxi driver to wait, then settle in on the sand and let the evening unfold. It’s one of the most peaceful ways to wrap up a Galapagos day.
Dinner – Nazca Esencia Restaurant
After watching the sunset over Tortuga Bay, make your way about 12 minutes into town for dinner at Nazca Esencia Restaurant. This stylish spot blends Ecuadorian flavors with a creative, modern twist, offering beautifully plated dishes that still feel warm and comforting. Heads up—they’re closed on Sundays!
Seafood is the star here, from tender octopus to freshly caught fish, though the menu also includes excellent meat and vegetarian options. The presentation feels a little elevated without being overly formal, and the attentive service makes the evening feel special. With its welcoming atmosphere and thoughtful dishes, Nazca Esencia is a lovely way to end the day on a high note.
Day 7
Full day – Explore Isla Pinzón
We rounded out our Galapagos trip with this full-day tour to Isla Pinzón, and it was the perfect finale. Smaller and less visited than many of the other islands, Pinzón is known for its towering candelabra cactus forest and incredible marine life, which makes snorkeling here unforgettable. The whole island feels wonderfully wild, where every step and splash brings you face-to-face with something new.
The tour departed Puerto Ayora at 8 am with a short sail toward Pinzón. Once we arrived, we set off on a guided walk through the cactus forest, a surreal landscape where marine iguanas crawled across the trail and seabirds perched overhead. We spotted blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds, and pelicans, while sea lions lounged along the rocky shoreline.
But the highlight of the day was definitely in the water. With snorkel gear and wetsuits provided, we slipped into turquoise bays and were immediately surrounded by life. Sea turtles glided by, sea lions darted and twirled around us, schools of tropical fish shimmered across the reef, eagle rays swept the sandy bottom, and yes—even a few reef sharks made an appearance. With two different snorkeling sites, it felt like a greatest-hits reel of Galapagos marine life.
After a freshly prepared lunch on board, we sailed back toward Santa Cruz—salty, sun-kissed, and with that bittersweet feeling that comes from ending such an incredible adventure.
Check availability and book your Isla Pinzón day tour here!
Evening – Your Choice!
For your last evening in the Galapagos, the options are wide open. Puerto Ayora has plenty of little art galleries filled with colorful, locally made pieces, a great way to bring home something more personal than a postcard. Small shops around town also make it easy to pick up a few souvenirs before heading back.
If you’d rather spend the evening outdoors, a return to Tortuga Bay for one final sunset is always a good idea. The light here is magical, and it’s hard to think of a better send-off. Or, take a relaxed walk along the Puerto Ayora pier, where the water glows under the lights and sea life still stirs below the surface.
However you choose to spend it, your last night is the perfect chance to slow down and soak in the island atmosphere one more time.
Dinner – Bahía Mar
For our final night on the islands, Bahía Mar (closed Sundays) is hard to beat. Set right on the waterfront, the restaurant delivers sweeping harbor views that feel extra special when the evening lights begin to twinkle across Puerto Ayora.
The menu blends fresh seafood with international flavors, including seared tuna, ceviche, or lobster alongside perfectly mixed drinks and a solid wine list. Between the view, the flavors, and the easygoing atmosphere, Bahía Mar is a fitting way to toast your last night on the islands!
Related Read: If the Galapagos feels a little out of reach for this trip, check out our detailed guide to the Poor Man’s Galapagos here. It’s a budget-friendly alternative where you can still see amazing wildlife right off Ecuador’s coast.
Where to Stay on the Galapagos Islands
Now that you’ve planned your Galapagos adventures, it’s time to pick a place to stay, and Santa Cruz Island makes the perfect base. From here, you’ll have easy access to tours, day trips, and plenty of great restaurants in Puerto Ayora. To help you decide, we’ve included some of our favorite options in Santa Cruz, from luxury oceanfront stays to mid-range hotels and budget-friendly B&Bs.
Blu Galapagos Sustainable Waterfront Lodge – $$$
Set on the oceanfront in Puerto Ayora, Blu Galapagos is a stylish, comfortable base with bright, modern rooms featuring air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, and plasma TVs. Guests can enjoy a continental breakfast, dine at the restaurant, or sip cocktails at sunset. All-inclusive packages with guided tours make exploring easy, plus free bikes are available. Plus, the Charles Darwin Research Station is just a short walk away!
It’s one of the top-rated properties in town and a great choice if you want convenience with a touch of luxury. Rooms average around $300 USD per night. Check availability and book your stay here!
Hotel Ninfa – $$
Hotel Ninfa is a welcoming stay in Puerto Ayora with great extras. Rooms feature air-conditioning, private bathrooms, minibars, and TVs, with spacious layouts for families and cozy spaces for couples. Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool, hot tub, and garden, borrow free bikes, or relax in the games room. A hearty buffet breakfast with pancakes, fruit, and local flavors starts each day.
With friendly staff and a relaxed atmosphere, this mid-range option is excellent value. Rooms average around $200 USD per night—book your stay today on Booking.com!
La Peregrina Galapagos B&B – $
La Peregrina Galapagos B&B is a charming, budget-friendly stay with simple, comfortable rooms featuring air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and garden views. Free Wi-Fi is available in common areas, and the lush garden adds to the relaxed vibe. Located across from Pelican Bay, you can often spot wildlife nearby, while the friendly staff happily assists with tips and tour arrangements.
With the Charles Darwin Research Station only a short walk away, this B&B makes a fantastic base without stretching the budget. Rooms average around $140 USD per night. Check availability and book here!
For even more great options, check out all the hotels listed on Santa Cruz here!
Related Read: For a deeper dive into each island and our top hotel picks, check out our detailed guide on where to stay in the Galapagos Islands here.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
There’s so much to experience in the Galapagos, but hopefully this five to seven-day itinerary has helped you map out the perfect trip. We followed this plan ourselves and loved how it blended island-hopping, snorkeling, wildlife encounters, and just enough downtime to enjoy the laid-back evenings in Puerto Ayora. It’s a destination that leaves you in awe at every turn, and we think you’ll see why the moment you arrive.
If your travels continue through Ecuador, don’t miss our other Ecuador blogs here for even more inspiration. We’ve shared detailed itineraries, travel tips, and favorite experiences from across the country, including mainland adventures that pair perfectly with a Galapagos trip. Or here are some of our most popular guides below to get you started!
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