Best Tours & Trips to Ecuador & Galapagos Islands 2023

By Samantha Barbagallo

May 8, 2023

Have you been thinking about taking a trip to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands? We've got you covered!

Are you ready for an adventure of a lifetime? Look no further than Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands - a destination that promises stunning landscapes, incredible wildlife, and a culture unlike any other. 

Located on the equator, this small but mighty country packs a punch with its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unique wildlife. And of course, we can't talk about Ecuador without mentioning its most iconic destination, the Galapagos Islands.

Whether you're a nature lover, adventure seeker, or culture enthusiast, Ecuador has something for everyone. Explore the Andean highlands and be amazed by the majestic Cotopaxi volcano, immerse yourself in the vibrant colonial architecture of Quito, or trek through the lush Amazon Rainforest to discover an incredible array of flora and fauna.

And if you're looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, don't miss the chance to visit the Galapagos Islands. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to an incredible array of species found nowhere else on earth, from giant tortoises and marine iguanas to blue-footed boobies and Galapagos penguins. With so much to see and do, it's no wonder the Galapagos Islands are a bucket list destination for travelers worldwide.

Get ready to be inspired by the beauty of South America's hidden gem with these top 10 best trips to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands with some of our top tour operators and travel companies! 

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1. Galápagos – Central and East Islands Tour with G Adventures

On this 8-day trip you will visit several of the Galapagos's Central and Eastern Islands that teem with an incredible diversity of marine and animal life. Sailing onboard the Reina Silvia Voyager, a custom catamaran, you'll witness sights including the giant tortoises at the Charles Darwin Research Station and the white coral sand beaches of Darwin Bay. Your 7-night cruise around the Galapagos Islands offers plenty of opportunities to see a variety of animal species and some of the most famous islands in the archipelago.

Price starts at $4,959 per person including all meals aboard the Reina Silvia Voyager. 

Sierra Negra Volcano Isla Isabela Galapagos Islands

2. Galapagos Discovery with Intrepid Travel

This 9 day trip of the highlights of the Galapagos Islands promises opportunities to rub shoulders with giant tortoises, gaze at the blue-footed boobies and see some of the best islands, coves, and natural wonders including Isla Santa Cruz, San Cristobal Island and Isla Isabela where you'll have a chance to take part in a trip to the highest part of the island where Sierra Negra Volcano is located and weather permitting hike up to the crater.  This all-encompassing trip combines plenty of must-try activities with generous amounts of free time to explore these stunning unique islands at your own pace. 

Prices start at $2,330 per person 

3. Legacy of the Incas with Galápagos Cruise with Globus

This 17-day tour with Globus takes you on a journey to discover the rich history and stunning landscapes of Peru and Ecuador, including a 4-night Galapagos Islands cruise. You'll visit iconic destinations such as Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu, and Quito, and experience the vibrant culture of the Andean people. On the Galapagos Islands cruise, you'll have the opportunity to explore the unique wildlife that inspired Charles Darwin's theory of evolution. The tour includes accommodations in hand-picked hotels, most meals, and expert local guides to ensure an unforgettable and hassle-free experience.

Prices start at $8,199 per person

4. Galapagos: In Darwin's Footsteps with Exodus Travels

This 15-day small group tour with Exodus Travels takes you on a comprehensive journey to explore the natural wonders of Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. You'll arrive in Quito and have some time to explore before embarking on a motorboat to explore the Galapagos Islands. During the cruise, you'll have the opportunity to spot diverse wildlife, including manta rays and sea turtles, and visit top sites such as Isabela Island, Santa Cruz Island, and Floreana Island. With expert local guides, comfortable hotel and lodge accommodations, and a mix of cultural and natural experiences, this tour offers a complete immersion in the best of the Galápagos islands.

Prices start at $7,999 per person 

5. Ecuador & Galapagos Islands with Charlie The Traveler

This 11-day tour with Charlie The Traveler takes you on an adventure-packed journey to discover the best of Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. You'll explore vibrant cities like Quito, visit local markets, and experience traditional cuisine, before embarking on a 6-day cruise to the Galapagos Islands where you'll witness an incredible variety of unique wildlife up close. Swim with sea turtles, spot sea lions, and head to popular sites including Moreno Point, home to doves, penguins, blue-footed boobies and mockingbirds and Elizabeth Bay, a notorious spot to see manta rays, hammerhead sharks, green sea turtles and sea lions. This Galapagos tour covers almost everything, promising an unforgettable adventure that you won't want to miss.

Prices start at $2,249 per person 

6. Galápagos Wildlife Adventure with Abercrombie & Kent

Get ready for a 10-day wildlife adventure like no other with Abercrombie & Kent's Galapagos Wildlife Adventure. Explore the enchanted archipelago and all the best spots of the Galapagos Islands, where you'll encounter some of the most unique and diverse wildlife in the world. With expert naturalist guides, you'll gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the remarkable biodiversity of the islands as you take daily on-shore trips to Isabela Island, Fernandina, Rabida, Santa Cruz and Floreana. You'll stay onboard a small expeditionary cruise ship along with a small group size of up to 18 guests and enjoy maximum home comfort and luxuries including air-conditioned cabins and fine on-board dining.  

Prices start at $8,245 per person 

7. Ecuador Big Five 18 Days Tour with Guidecuador

Guidecuador Travel's 18-day tour includes visits to the enchanting cities of Quito and Cuenca, the stunning Galapagos Islands, the lush Amazon Rainforest, the majestic Andes Mountains, and the beautiful Pacific coast. This tour provides an opportunity to experience the rich culture, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes that make Ecuador a top travel destination. This tour includes a 3-day Galapagos cruise where you'll island hop on a small speed boat between Baltra island, Santa Cruz and Isabela Island which is the largest island.  

 Prices start from $4,399 per person

8. Complete Ecuador Andes,Jungle & Galapagos Adventure with Project Expedition

Looking for a one-stop adventure in Ecuador? Look no further than the 21-day Complete Ecuador Andes, Jungle & Galapagos Adventure. From exploring the colorful markets of colonial Quito to hiking in the Andes and cruising around the Galapagos Islands, this trip has it all. Get up close with unique wildlife like giant tortoises, sea lions, and blue-footed boobies, experience local culture by taking a guided sightseeing tour of Quito, visiting indigenous communities and stay in eco-lodges in the Amazon jungle. This tour spends a considerable amount of time on mainland Ecuador compared to other tours, and is ideal for someone who perhaps wants to see more of the country than just the galápagos archipelago.

Prices start at $5,090 per person

9. Galapagos Family Travel with ROW Adventures

Looking for a family-friendly adventure that's both fun and educational? Look no further than ROW Adventures' Galapagos Family Travel tour! Spend 8 days exploring the fascinating Galapagos Islands, where you'll encounter incredible wildlife and learn about the island's unique ecosystems. This active vacation begins in Quito before boarding a flight to San Cristóbal Island where your Galapagos archipelago cruise begins. Kayak from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno to Manglecito Beach for up-close encounters with marine iguanas and pelicans, enjoy a pristine beachfront hotel stay in Puerto Villamil, hike an active volcano, and visit the Tortoise Breeding Center, an initiative by the Galápagos National Park to conserve the varied species of these gentle giants. Don't miss out on this unforgettable family vacation!

Prices start at $4,990 per person  

10. Galapagos Island Hopping Tour: Santa Cruz, Floreana & Isabela with Global Basecamps

Looking for an immersive and authentic way to experience the Galapagos Islands? Check out Global Basecamps' Galapagos Island Hopping tour! Over the course of 8 days, you'll explore four of the most unique and diverse islands in the archipelago - Santa Cruz, Floreana, Bartolome Island and Isabela - and get up close and personal with some of the world's most fascinating wildlife. This tour is perfect for those seeking a more intimate and flexible Galapagos Islands tour experience and offers plenty of opportunities for adventure and relaxation alike.

Prices start at $5,800 per person

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When is the best time of year to take a trip to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands?

The most popular time to visit Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands is during the dry season from June to September. During this time, the weather is generally dry and sunny, and wildlife is abundant. The average temperature in the highlands is around 60-70°F (15-20°C) during the day and can drop down to 40°F (5°C) at night. In the coastal regions, temperatures are warmer with an average of 80°F (27°C) during the day and 70°F (21°C) at night.

The shoulder seasons of April to May and October to November are also good times to visit, with fewer crowds and mild weather. The rainy season runs from December to May, with heavier rainfall from January to April. Despite the rain, this can still be a great time to visit as the landscape is lush and green, and there are fewer tourists. The average temperature during the rainy season is similar to the dry season.

Is it safe to travel to Ecuador independently or should I take a guided tour?

Traveling alone in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands is generally safe, but it's always recommended to exercise caution, especially if you're exploring unfamiliar areas or are not familiar with the local language or culture. Taking a guided tour or small group tour in Ecuador can be beneficial as the tour director can offer valuable insights into the local culture, history, and customs and show you the best places to visit. If you travel independently, many companies offer day trips with a local guide to top sites and destinations which often enhances the travel experience. 

What is the Charles Darwin Research Station?

The Charles Darwin Research Station is a biological research station located in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island in the Galapagos Islands. The station is operated by the Charles Darwin Foundation and serves as the base for conservation, scientific research, and educational projects in the Galapagos. The station is named after the famous naturalist Charles Darwin, who visited the Galapagos Islands in 1835 and collected samples that later contributed to his theory of evolution. The station is open to visitors and offers exhibits and information about the unique wildlife and habitats of the Galapagos Islands. 

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