Galapagos Islands Tours & Cruises

Travelers fly from mainland Ecuador via Quito or Guayaquil to Baltra or San Cristóbal airports. At SA Expeditions, we arrange all domestic flights and transfers.

We recommend 5-8 days to experience multiple islands, marine excursions, and wildlife encounters like the Galapagos marine iguana, giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, and sea lions. Longer stays allow access to more remote islands. All our itineraries are private, tailor-made, and strategically paced.

→ Compare our land-based and cruise options.

The Galapagos is a year-round destination. Wildlife behaviors and water conditions vary, so the best month depends on what you want to see and do:

• Warm season (Dec-May): calmer seas, excellent snorkeling, breeding birds

• Cool season (Jun-Nov): nutrient-rich waters, peak marine life, better diving visibility

We design itineraries around your goals for wildlife, weather, and activities.

→ Learn more in our blog on the Best time to visit the Galapagos Islands.

We offer a curated fleet of small-ship Galapagos cruises (16-100 passenger vessels) with expert naturalist guides, comfortable cabins, and flexible routes. Guests enjoy Zodiac landings, guided hikes, snorkeling, and marine life encounters while following strict park regulations to protect the ecosystem. Talk to one of our Destination Experts to see which cruise suits you.

Yes! We provide land-based Galapagos private tours staying at boutique Galapagos Islands hotels. Enjoy comforts on-shore while taking daily boat excursions to surrounding islands—perfect for travelers prone to seasickness or families wanting more flexibility.

Wildlife changes by season, but common sightings include:

• Galapagos marine iguanas (year-round)

• Giant tortoises (best Jun-Dec)

• Blue-footed boobies (breeding Apr-Jun)

• Sea turtle nesting (Dec-Mar)

• Hammerhead sharks (Mar-Nov)

Your Destination Expert matches travel dates with your wildlife priorities.

Yes – swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and diving are core activities. Crystal-clear waters allow encounters with reef sharks, turtles, rays, and sea lions.

→ See our one of our Destination Expert’s firsthand experience in the Galapagos.

Top islands include:

• Santa Cruz: giant tortoises, Charles Darwin Research Station

• Isabela: volcanic scenery, penguins

• San Cristóbal: sea lions, surfing, excellent diving

• Española: waved albatross (seasonal)

• Fernandina: pristine marine iguana populations

Your tailor-made Galapagos tour balances landing sites, wildlife activity, and marine excursions.

Strict visitor limits, guided routes, and park regulations protect fragile endemic species. As a B Corp committed to environmental impact, SA Expeditions partners with responsible operators, prioritizes conservation, and follows Leave No Trace standards.

→ Read more about conversation in the Galapagos.

Yes, though with any major city, petty theft can occur. We recommend:

• Avoiding isolated areas at night

• Keeping valuables secure

• Staying aware in crowded spaces

With our accompanying expert local guides, vetted hotels, private transfers, and 24/7 support, travelers consistently report feeling safe and supported.

Light layers, sun protection, reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes, quick-dry clothing, and motion-sickness options are recommended. Snorkeling gear is included on most Galapagos tours.

→ See our Galapagos packing guide for detailed recommendations.

Our Galapagos specialists offer:

• Private, tailor-made itineraries

• Expert naturalist guides

• Handpicked expedition vessels & boutique hotels

• Fully coordinated flights & transfers

• Conservation-aligned, small group landings

• 24/7 in-country support

We handle every detail so you can focus on wildlife, adventure, and relaxation.