The Galapagos Islands are a dream destination for most people. As a traveler with a passion for discovering new hidden gems and exploring the underwater world world, embarking on a journey to the Galapagos Islands was a dream come true for me.

From the moment my friend and I set foot on these remote islands, we were swept away by the beauty of their landscapes, the richness of their biodiversity, and the sense of adventure that awaited around every corner. Upon arrival to the Throughout the trip, we participated in a variety of experiences and excursions. We chose to book all of our Galapagos excursions with Viator. I was incredibly impressed throughout the entire time the exceptional service and attention to detail provided by them.

The Best Tours in the Galapagos Islands  

A Personalized Itinerary for my Galapagos Trip

My goal for this trip was to see two things, lots of ocean life and turquoise blue water. One of the things that impressed me most about my experience with booking my trip through Viator, was the personalized attention to detail in crafting my itinerary. From the outset, the worker reached out to me a day prior and took the time to understand my interests and preferences, ensuring that every aspect of my journey was tailored to suit my tastes and then suggested the tours I take from there. Whether it was snorkeling with sea turtles, hiking to volcanic craters, or simply relaxing on pristine beaches, every day brought new adventures and unforgettable moments. Additionally, if you’re looking to want to get photos and videos of your trip, they also offer Go-Pro hero black cameras which create crystal clear photos and videos with little photo or video editing required. If you don’t have snorkeling gear, don’t worry. Their team will provide the highest quality gear on the market ensuring for clear visibility when snorkeling. 

Expert Guides and Local Insights

One of the highlights of my trip was the opportunity to explore the islands with knowledgeable and passionate guides who shared their expertise and insights into the unique ecosystems of the Galapagos. Viator hires all of their guides locally, so you know you're being educated and taken to the best spots on the islands. From pointing out rare sharks to explaining the geological history of the islands, their enthusiasm and dedication to their craft truly enhanced my overall experience. Plus, their intimate knowledge of the best snorkeling spots and hidden gems allowed us to see the islands from a perspective that few tourists ever get to experience.

Encounters with Wildlife in the Galapagos 

Of course, no trip to the Galapagos would be complete without encounters with the iconic wildlife that call these islands home. From the moment I spotted my first giant tortoise lumbering across the highlands to the playful sea lions that frolicked in the crystal-clear waters, each encounter was a reminder of the incredible diversity and beauty of nature. Snorkeling among schools of colorful fish, swimming with reef sharks, and observing blue-footed boobies perform their courtship dances were just a few of the magical moments that left me in awe of the natural world. The Galapagos is truly like no other place when it comes to the wildlife that lives here. 

Exploring Santa Fe Island in the Galapagos with Viator  

One of the most memorable experiences of my trip was the Santa Fe Island hopping tour, which promised a day of exploration and discovery in one of the Galapagos’ best hidden gems. Nestled in the heart of the archipelago, Santa Fe Island boasts pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and abundant wildlife, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler. As we snorkeled and swam on around Santa Fe and its neighboring smaller islands, I was in awe with all the wildlife we saw and some of the most turquoise water. We also caught fresh fish that the staff cooked on the boat for lunch and got to have an entire 8 hours on the water island hopping and snorkeling. If you’re going to choose one day trip to take when visiting the Galapagos islands, I highly recommend the Santa Fe Tour.

Other Tour Options in the Galapagos with Viator

In addition to their land-based tours and island-hopping adventures, Viator also offers an array of cruise options ranging from 3 to 6 nights, providing travelers with the opportunity to explore the Galapagos Islands from the comfort of a cruise. Whether you're seeking a short getaway or a more extensive exploration of the archipelago, their cruises offer the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion. Each cruise is carefully crafted to showcase the highlights of the Galapagos, from iconic landmarks to remote islands teeming with wildlife. With spacious cabins, gourmet dining, and expert guides on hand to enhance your experience, a cruise with Viator promises to be an unforgettable journey through one of the world's most extraordinary destinations.

If you’re looking for a shorter trip, they also offer half day tours such as the Bay Tour. The Bay tour is a three hour tour that takes you along the bay of Santa Cruz. Here, you can find reef sharks, seals, giant sea turtles and many fish. This tour is perfect for those wanting a shorter trip, but still interested in seeing lots of underwater animals. 

Click here to view all Galapagos Islands tours with Viator.

Supporting Conservation Efforts

Throughout my journey, I was impressed by the commitment to promoting responsible tourism practices that prioritize conservation and preservation. From partnering with eco-friendly accommodations to supporting local conservation initiatives, it was clear that preserving the fragile ecosystems of the Galapagos Islands was a top priority. As a traveler, it was inspiring to see firsthand the positive impact that responsible tourism can have on protecting these pristine environments for future generations to enjoy.

Booking Galapagos Islands Tours with Viator: The #1 Trusted Tour Provider in the Galapagos Islands 

My journey to the Galapagos Islands with Viator was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that exceeded all of my expectations. From the breathtaking landscapes to the incredible wildlife encounters, every moment was filled with wonder and adventure. Each tour was personalized for my liking and the staff made that my friend and I left satisfied with each day that we spent with them. If you're looking for an unforgettable travel experience that combines natural beauty, wildlife, and adventure, I highly recommend booking your Galapagos trip with Viator. 

FAQ About the Galapagos Islands

• Do you need a visa? 

  • No you do not need a visa, but upon entering the islands, you will need to go to the airport kiosk in Quito or Guqauqil and pay the $120 entrance fee in cash. This fee is to help with keeping the national park clean and safe for both animals and tourists. This is a mandatory fee. 

• What kind of sunscreen should I bring?

  • You need sunscreen here. Even if you don’t think you do, you will. The Galapagos is the strongest sun I have ever experienced. We brought SPF 50, but that was not enough. I would recommend at least 80 and make sure your sunscreen is reef safe. 

• Do they accept credit card? 

  • Most payments here will have a % charge for credit. You can pay for your hotel stay and they won’t charge a % fee, but tours do charge a % fee. There are many working ATMs in the main town of Santa Cruz. Make sure to have the Charles Schwab Debit card so you can get all your ATM fees reimbursed. 

• Where should I stay when visiting the Galapagos islands? 

  • I recommend flying into Balta Island. You will then take a shuttle and a boat to the main island of Santa Cruz. The town of Santa Cruz offers a lot and is full of restaurants. You will even see sea lions hanging out on the streets. Make sure to book your accommodation at Galapagos Dreams Hotel. 

• How much does a trip to the Galapagos Islands cost? 

  • The Galapagos islands is more of a luxurious destination, but I would plan on budgeting about $1300 for the week which would include 2 full day tours (Santa Fe and Isabella Island), one half day tour (Bay Tour), entrance fee, accommodation, round trip flight, other transportation, etc. If you're doing daily tours or a cruise, it will cost closer to $1700 per week.  If I’m going to be honest, it does can have a very large range in price. You can also email me to book a consultation call and I can help you plan your Galapagos tour within your desired budget and give you advice on which tours will fit your preferences the best. 

• Do I need to bring snorkeling gear?

  • Nope! Viator will supply snorkeling gear and its good gear too! 

• How is the internet here/working remote? 

  • Internet in the Galapagos is pretty spotty. Claro, the local provider works the best, but be prepared for times where it’s slow. I stayed at Galapagos Dreams hotel during my trip here and they have pretty decently fast wifi for being in the middle of nowhere. I was able to get all of my work done with only a few times where it was difficult to work. I probably would not do two full weeks of working here though. One week was okay, but two weeks would’ve been slightly more difficult. Although, there is a cafe called Lemon Tree with Starlink which works faster. 

• When is the best time to visit? 

  • The Galapagos islands do have tropical weather which means dry and rainy season. The best time to visit would be December-March. We went in early March and only experienced one rainy day out of the 8 days we were there.