Embark on a journey like no other as I unveil the hidden gems of the Galapagos Islands in this 10-day land itinerary that promises awe-inspiring encounters with unique wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. From exploring the volcanic terrain of Isabela Island to snorkeling in crystal-clear waters around Santa Cruz, this itinerary is designed to immerse you in the unparalleled beauty and biodiversity of this iconic destination.
Join me as I guide you through each day of our unforgettable adventure, offering a glimpse into the wonders that await you in this remote paradise. Prepare to be captivated by the extraordinary flora and animals of the Galapagos Islands as I take you on a journey that will leave a lasting imprint on your soul.
Galapagos Islands: A 10-Day Land Itinerary You Must Experience
Important Things to Know Before Visiting the Galapagos Islands
- You must be with a guide at all times when exploring the different islands – which is why most activities will be done through a tour company.
- We went through Agora Tours and they went above and beyond to make our trip extra special. They planned and booked all our excursions so all we had to do was show up.
- Bring cash with you at all times. Especially on the smaller islands, where there might not be an ATM. I recommend at least $600 or more if you’re comfortable carrying that much. Trust me – you’ll spend it all.
- ATM’s are not easy to find and often times don’t work.
- The Galapagos Islands all use USD currency.
- Make sure you tip your guides AND the boat crew – they do not share tips and should be tipped separately. Good tips are around 20% of what you paid for the tour.
Galapagos Islands: A 10-Day Land Itinerary tips - Do not touch any animals (even if they come up to you) or flora on the islands, they are all protected by the government.
- Pack less clothing than you’ll want to. There are laundry services on the islands that will wash your clothes for less than $5.
- Land-based visits are cheaper than going through a cruise line.
- Be sure to tell the tour company you book with if you have any allergies or food restrictions because most tours include a meal.
Day 1: Arrival and Introduction to the Galapagos Islands
Upon your arrival in the Galapagos Islands, you will be greeted by the enchanting beauty and charm of this one-of-a-kind archipelago. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure as you begin your exploration of these incredible islands. Day 2 will take you on a 360 tour around San Cristobal, where you can witness the stunning landscapes and fascinating wildlife that call this island home.
Day 2: 360 Tour Around San Cristobal
Today, you will embark on a 360 tour around Santa Cruz, immersing yourself in this captivating island’s natural beauty and endemic wildlife. From lush green highlands to pristine beaches, Santa Cruz offers a diverse range of landscapes and ecosystems for you to explore. Keep your eyes peeled for iconic Galapagos species such as giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies as you traverse the island.
On this 10-Day Land Itinerary to the Galapagos Islands, if you have extra time, I recommend spending another day in Santa Cruz so you can take a day trip to Española and see the famous albatross birds.
Flight to Isabela
As you soar over the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean towards Isabela, anticipation builds for the wonders that await at Tintoreras. This next leg of your journey promises thrilling encounters with wildlife and captivating landscapes that will leave you speechless. The airport is tiny, with just a waiting room where you check in. The plane only holds 4-6 people at a time and is very noisy, so you’ll be provided with ear muffs. The ticket price will depend on how many bags you have and how heavy they are.
Make sure you check out my detailed guide on how to get to Isabella from San Cristobal.
Day 3: Fly to Isabela for Tintoreras Tour
As you soar over the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean towards Isabela, anticipation builds for the wonders that await at Tintoreras. This next leg of your journey promises thrilling encounters with unique wildlife and captivating landscapes that will leave you breathless. Get ready to dive into the beauty of Isabela and immerse yourself in the magic of Tintoreras, setting the stage for an unforgettable day of exploration. With memories of Tintoreras lingering in your mind, Day 4 invites you to continue your adventure on Isabela Island with a hike to the Sulfur Mines, where the rugged beauty of the volcanic landscape awaits.
Day 4: Sulphur Mines Hike on Isabella Island
Day 4 invites you to embark on a thrilling hike to the Sulphur Mines on Isabela Island. This excursion will lead you through the rugged volcanic landscape, offering a glimpse into the island’s geological history and providing breathtaking views of the surrounding terrain.
As you traverse the rocky terrain and witness the raw beauty of the Sulfur Mines, you will be captivated by the stark contrasts and natural wonders that make Isabela Island a truly unforgettable destination. Like all tours in the Galapagos, I recommend wearing a long-sleeved sun shirt to keep you out of the sun. There is NO SHADE on this hike, and due to the strenuous climbs, it’s important to keep yourself cool and hydrated. Our tour was private with just the two of us and a guide. It included pickup/dropoff and lunch.
Day 5: Los Túneles – Isabella Island
Venture underwater on Day 5 of your Galapagos adventure as you explore the beautiful marine landscape of Los Túneles on Isabela Island. This natural wonder, formed by lava tubes and crystal-clear waters, offers a one-of-a-kind snorkeling experience where you can swim alongside sea turtles, colorful fish, seahorses, penguins, and playful sea lions.
The intricate rock formations and archways create a mesmerizing underwater world that will leave you in awe of nature’s beauty. After an exhilarating day of snorkeling and wildlife encounters at Los Túneles, get ready to catch a ferry from Isabela to Santa Cruz, where more remarkable experiences await you on this unforgettable journey.
Galapagos Islands: A 10-Day Land Itinerary
Ferry from Isabela to Santa Cruz
Early the next morning, it’s time to hop on the 6:00 am ferry that will take you to Santa Cruz. You will need to take a water taxi to get to the ferry. This scenic journey across the turquoise waters of the Galapagos allows you to relax and soak in the beauty of the archipelago’s diverse landscapes.
Once you arrive at Santa Cruz, get ready to explore the iconic Tortuga Bay and visit the renowned Charles Darwin Research Center on Day 6 of your adventure.
Day 6: Tortuga Bay and Charles Darwin Research Center on Santa Cruz
Isabela island to → Santa Cruz island
Departures: 06:00 am and 15:00 pm
Price: $35
Important information:
- Show up 1 hour before boarding
- You must pay $1 cash for the water taxi from the pier to the ferry
- Travel time: approximately 2 hours
- $ 1.50 cash for the water taxi from the ferry to the port of Santa Cruz
- $10 cash entry onto Santa Cruz (Foreigners)
See more information on the Ferries of Galapagos.
On Day 6 of your Galapagos adventure, you will have the chance to visit two must-see attractions on Santa Cruz Island. First up is Tortuga Bay, a stunning white sand beach renowned for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. Spend the morning snorkeling among colorful fish and playful sea lions, or simply bask in the sun and enjoy the serene surroundings.
In the afternoon, head to the Charles Darwin Research Center, a hub of scientific research and conservation efforts dedicated to preserving the biodiversity of the Galapagos. Here, you can learn about the important work being done to protect the island’s fragile ecosystems and see the famous giant tortoises up close. Don’t forget to take a stroll through the center’s lush botanical gardens, home to a variety of endemic plant species.
Day 7: Discovering the Unique Flora and Fauna of North Seymour Island
As you step onto North Seymour Island on Day 7 of your Galapagos adventure, be prepared to be immersed in the unique flora and fauna that call this island home. From the iconic blue-footed boobies gracefully dancing along the rocky coastline to the frigatebirds soaring high above, every step you take on this island will unveil a new marvel of the natural world. Keep your eyes peeled for the vibrant iguanas basking in the sun and the sea lions lounging on the sandy shores, creating a picturesque scene straight out of a postcard.
After a day filled with amazing encounters with North Seymour’s wildlife, you’ll be eager to set sail for Santa Fé on Day 8 to witness the majestic land iguanas in their natural habitat.
Day 8: Santa Fé to see Land Iguanas
After a day filled with remarkable encounters with North Seymour’s wildlife, you’ll be eager to set sail for Santa Fé on Day 8 to witness the majestic land iguanas in their natural habitat. As you explore the rocky terrain of Santa Fé, keep your eyes peeled for these reptiles that blend seamlessly into the surroundings with their earthy tones. Their prehistoric appearance and gentle demeanor will leave you in admiration of the wonders of evolution in the Galapagos Islands.
Prepare yourself for another day of exploration and adventure as you head to Bartolomé Island on Day 9, where crystal-clear waters beckon you for a snorkeling adventure before reaching the famous overlook for a panoramic view of the iconic Pinnacle Rock.
Day 9: Snorkeling and Famous Overlook on Bartolomé Island
As you dive into the turquoise waters surrounding Bartolomé Island, colorful fish darting around coral formations will greet you with a vibrant underwater dance. The snorkeling experience here is nothing short of mesmerizing, providing a glimpse into the marine life thriving beneath the surface. After your aquatic adventure, hike up to the famous overlook on Bartolomé Island for a breathtaking panoramic view of the iconic Pinnacle Rock standing proudly against the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean.
Day 10 beckons with the bittersweet departure to Quito or your home, leaving you with memories of the hidden gems you’ve uncovered in the Galapagos Islands.
Day 10: Depart to Quito or Home
After ten days of exploration and discovery, the time has come to bid farewell to the enchanting Galapagos Islands. As you reflect on the vibrant marine life, wildlife encounters, and breathtaking landscapes, you will carry with you memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you are heading back to Quito or embarking on a journey back home, the hidden gems of the Galapagos Islands will continue to inspire wonder long after you’ve left their shores.
Embark on a transformative journey to the Galapagos Islands and uncover the hidden gems that await you. From exploring wildlife to immersing yourself in stunning landscapes, our 10-day land itinerary promises unforgettable experiences that will stay with you for a lifetime. Book your adventure today and create memories that will last a lifetime. As Charles Darwin once said, “It is not the strongest of the species that survive, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change.” So be responsive to this change and let the Galapagos Islands work their magic on you.
How much does it cost to visit the Galapagos Islands in 10 days?
These prices show what we paid in USD per person for our trip in May 2024.
- 360 Tour of San Cristobal $175
- Ferry $30 + $1 for water taxi
- North Seymour & South Plaza $390
- Bartolome & Sullivan Bay $270
- Flight from Detroit to Quito $910
- Flight from Quito to San Cristobal $170
- Flight from San Cristobal to Isabela $310
- Flight from Santa Cruz to Quito $150
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