You would typically start your journey in Ecuador, either from Quito or Guayaquil, as they are the main gateways to the Galapagos Islands.

Galapagos Luxury Cruises
Ecuador, home to lush Amazon Jungle, untouched cloud forest, the Valley of the Volcanoes and the fiery cradle that is the Galapagos Islands…
A magical land of discovery
Introduction to the Galapagos Islands
Mainland Ecuador offers exciting opportunities to discover the Valley of the Volcanoes, the Amazon Jungle and the Ecuadorian cloud-forest as the premiere attractions. The volcano routes encompass such spectacles as Chimborazo, Riobamba, Alausi and colonial Cuenca on multi -day trips. These journeys escape to the wilds of a pristine land with glorious vistas at every turn. You will witness remote local cultures undertaking their daily lives much unchanged for centuries. The Amazon in Ecuador is another off the beaten track experience in lands of huge bio-diversity at Yasuni National Park. An alternative to the Amazon Jungle is a special visit to a hidden unique luxury lodge on a voyage of natural discovery in the secluded high cloud forests of Ecuador. Which one to choose!
The Galapagos Islands
These isles were found by fortune on March 10th of 1535 by Fray Tomas de Berlanga, the fourth bishop of Panama. Sailing from Panama to Peru in a dispute between Francisco Pizarro (of Peru) and his lieutenants he was blown off course at a location he called The Enchanted Isles. It was an apt name for this archipelago is cast alone some 560 miles (900 km) miles west off the coast of Ecuador. The 13 tropical Galapagos Islands comprise officially what is known as the Archipelago of Columbus. A government wildlife site since 1935 and a UNESCO site since 1978 these islands are without compare on an evolutionary stage. The volcanically active isles here were formed between 700,000 and 5,000,000 years ago and they continue to evolve to this very day with active volcanoes still in evidence. Today only about 30,000 people live on the Galapagos Isles as 97% of the island chain are now a national park.
These remote lands were visited by Charles Darwin on his Voyage of the Beagle in 1835 to become the core of his theory of natural selection published in 1859 called “On the Origin of Species”. The island chain supports much variety of animal life. Its giant tortoises are thought to have some of the longest life spans of any creature on Earth with some reaching 150 years of age. Other noted species include the marine iguana (unique in the world), Darwin Finches, Galapagos Hawks, Blue and Red Footed Boobies, lava lizards and penguins. The marine iguana is also extremely unusual, since it is the only iguana adapted to life in the sea. The main attraction for the visitor today is how the animals have little fear of humans or other potentially predatory species due to their unique evolutionary heritage.
Our top picks
Featured Galapagos Luxury Cruises

Galapagos Luxury Tour: Land Based (7 Days)
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Natural Wonders of Ecuador: Galapagos & Mashpi Lodge (11 Days)
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Luxury Galapagos Tour: Essential (6 Days)
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Volcanic Wonders – Helicopter & Luxury Galapagos Cruise (11 Days)
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Luxury Galapagos & Ecuador Jungle Vacation (11 Days)
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Galapagos & Valley of the Volcanoes (12 Days)
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Galapagos Need to Know
Best Time to Go:
November-May
Time Zone:
GMT–6
Main International Airport:
José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport (GYE), Guayaquil, Ecuador
Currency:
USD ($)
Galapagos Luxury Cruises FAQs
Where do I go first to get to the Galapagos Islands?
How long is the flight from Ecuador to the Galapagos?
The flight from Ecuador to the Galapagos Islands typically takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on the specific route and airport.
How many days do you recommend I stay in Ecuador?
The number of days to stay in Ecuador depends on your interests and the places you wish to explore. A week or 10 days is a common duration to explore some of the highlights, but you can adjust the length of your stay based on your preferences.
Check out our luxury 7-day itinerary we at Totally Latin America created.
Is there internet or phone signal in Galapagos?
Yes, there is internet and phone signal in the Galapagos Islands. However, it can be limited and slower compared to mainland Ecuador, especially in more remote areas of the islands.
What are the must dos in the Galapagos islands?
Must-dos in the Galapagos Islands include exploring the unique wildlife and ecosystems through guided tours and excursions. You can visit iconic sites like Bartolome Island, Isabela Island, and North Seymour Island to see Galapagos giant tortoises, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and other fascinating species. Snorkeling or diving in the clear waters to encounter marine life is also a popular activity.
Is the Galapagos Islands suitable for Senior Travelers?
Yes, the Galapagos Islands can be suitable for both senior travelers and families. Some tours and accommodations cater to different fitness levels and accessibility needs. At Totally Latin America we also some of the top luxury cruises at the Galapagos Islands. Check them out here.
What should I bring?
When packing for the Galapagos Islands, consider bringing lightweight, comfortable clothing suitable for warm and humid weather. Include swimwear, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection. A good pair of walking shoes or sandals, a waterproof jacket, and a daypack for excursions are also recommended. Don’t forget to bring any necessary medications, a reusable water bottle, and a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing.
What language do they speak on the Galapagos Islands?
The primary language spoken on the Galapagos Islands is Spanish. However, due to its popularity as a tourist destination, you will also find many people who can speak English.
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