Exploring the Galapagos by Land

For those looking to explore the Galapagos Islands at a more relaxed pace, or you want to see what it means to live on the islands then land-based travel might be for you.

Stay in locally owned lodges and boutique hotels on islands like Santa Cruz, San Cristóbal and Isabela. Enjoy the freedom to explore a different side of the Galapagos: wandering white-sand beaches at sunset, sampling fresh seafood in island towns, and heading out each day on guided excursions by boat, kayak, bike or foot.

We've selected a range of land-based and island hopping experiences to suit your preferences.

A Guide to Galapagos land-based trips

Choose one Island or try Island Hopping...

Island Hopping

Stay on Land – Instead of sleeping on a cruise ship, you stay in hotels on the inhabited islands like Santa Cruz, Isabela, or San Cristóbal.
Travel Between Islands – You move from one island to another using public ferries or small inter-island flights, allowing you to experience the contrasts between islands.
Explore by Day – Each day you head out on guided excursions — by boat, kayak, bike, or on foot — to visit nearby wildlife sites, beaches, or snorkelling spots.
Mix Adventure and Relaxation – With time built in for both activities and downtime, you can explore at your own pace and enjoy evenings in island towns.

Family Friendly

Travelling to the Galapagos as a family is a wonderful experience. Often it is more comfortable for families to stay on one Island, instead of travelling around. The comfortable hotels on islands like Santa Cruz or Isabela means more space, flexibility, and downtime — ideal for younger children or teens who need room to recharge.

Comfort

Staying in a hotel means more space to relax, consistent amenities, and the ability to unpack and settle in. It’s ideal for travellers who prefer a fixed base and more traditional comforts between excursions. You will also have more privacy from other guests.

Chaski 03.25 Galapagosorganic Coffee By Adriano Trapiche (1)

Local Community

By staying in island towns like Puerto Ayora or Puerto Villamil, you’ll have the chance to meet the galapagueños and experience the local culture — from dining in family-run restaurants to browsing artisan shops and chatting with residents.

Chaski 03.25 Puerto Villamil Isabela Island

Value

Land-based trips can often be more affordable than cruises, especially for families or groups. You can choose accommodation and excursions that match your budget, making the Galapagos more accessible without compromising on experience.

Excursions

Land-based travel gives you access to a diverse mix of day trips and activities. One day you might snorkel with sea turtles and marine iguanas, the next you could hike across lava fields, visit a giant tortoise reserve, or kayak through mangrove lagoons. With options by boat, foot, bike, or paddle, each day brings a new way to experience the landscapes and wildlife that make the Galapagos so extraordinary.

How long does it take to travel between Islands?

You are able to stay on four of the inhabited Islands:

San Cristobal
Santa Cruz
Isabela
Floreana

Travelling by Speed Boat

San Cristobal to Santa Cruz - 2 hours
Santa Cruz to Isabela - 2 hours

These depart daily once in the morning and once in the afternoon

Santa Cruz to Floreana* - 2 hours

*The local speedboat option to Floreana does not run every day of the week so be sure to speak to us about booking in advance

You can not travel directly from San Cristobal to Isabela

Travelling by plane

Three of the Islands have airports that Interisland flights:

Baltra, Santa Cruz
San Cristobal
Isabela

There is one departure per day and they take around 30-40 minutes:

Isabela to San Cristobal - San Cristobal to Isabela
Isabela to Baltra - Baltra to Isabela
San Cristobal to Baltra - Baltra to San Cristobal

What Islands can I visit?

Even if you only stay on one Island you can explore so much of what this remote archipelago has to offer. We can help you hand pick where you want to go based on your interests.

Chaski 03.25 Playa De Los Alemanes Puerto Ayora Santa Cruz

From Santa Cruz

Santa Fé
North Seymour
Bartolomé
South Plaza
Floreana

San Cristobal Harbour Shutterstock 04.25

From San Cristobal

Kicker Rock
Española
Isla Lobos

From Isabela

Day trips are more limited compared to Santa Cruz or San Cristóbal because Isabela is more remote and has a smaller port but there are plenty of exciting excursions and activities