The Galapagos have entered the stratosphere of bucket list trips and nearly legendary status, such that they almost don't seem real. And due to this can seem incredibly unattainable to visit if you're on a budget. While traveling to the Galapagos is expensive, it is possible to travel to these mystical, historically significant, and scientifically significant islands on a budget (in relative terms).
Because they are so remote, accessible by cruise or flight only, the cost of a trip to the Galapagos heavily factors in transportation. Once you're there, you'll be depending on local ferries, boats, and tours, as well as eating in local bars and restaurants if not on your cruise vessel. Tourism is the main source of income on the Galapagos so these prices are hiked up.
Additionally, you are required to take a tour in the Galapagos for wildlife viewing and to ensure the minimal human disturbance of the rare, valuable, and delicate ecosystems around the islands. Conservation efforts are constant and taken seriously on the Galapagos, and going on a tour helps your tourism dollars contribute to this, as well as helps make sure they remain effective.
The Three Major Galapagos islands
This is the most populous and commercially developed of all the Galapagos, and the best place for viewing giant tortoises. You’re guaranteed to see tortoises when you visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, but even better is viewing these mammoth creatures in the wild, as they slowly migrate to find mates and lay their eggs.
The largest of the Galapagos, Isabela Island is rich in many forms of wildlife. The island is home to thousands of giant tortoises, to the most northerly penguin colony on earth, and to the rare pink iguana, which inhabit the slopes of a volcano. Sea turtles, marine iguanas, offshore whales, and a number of bird species make this an island not to miss.
This is the site of the Galapagos’ major international airport and second most populous in the chain, and where Charles Darwin first set foot in the islands in 1835. This is one of the prime birding areas of the Galapagos, with boobies –- Blue-footed, Red-footed, and Nazca – sharing the spotlight with finches and frigate birds. You can also snorkel amid sea turtles, sea lions, and tropical fish.
Check out the best 10 budget minded tours to the Galapagos:
The Galápagos Islands & Ecuador
Experience the wonders of the Galapagos Islands, as well as the historic city of Quito on the mainland, during this 10 day cruise journey. You'll spend the majority of your time exploring 4 of the Galapagos main islands, where you can observe the unbelievable wildlife and otherworldly volcanic landscapes that make the Galapagos an unforgettable trip.
Perfect for: Travelers of all types, looking for both and active and cultural exploration of the Galapagos
Galapagos Islands Family Adventure
This wonderful 9 day tour takes in all that make the Galapagos special, geared specifically for family travelers. Begin in Quito for some fun adventures in zip-lining through the Cloud Forest, before heading the the islands of the Galapagos, where you'll focus on two of the main islands, rich in history, natural sights, and of course amazing wildlife. This tour provides a wonderful introduction to the significance of the islands.
Perfect for: Young families looking for an easy, educational, and fun tour of the Galapagos.
Galapagos Encounter - Central Islands (Queen Beatriz)
Visit 4 of the Galapagos main islands on this 6 day tour. Discover the incredible diversity that makes the Galapagos such a unique part of the world, and such a historically significant area to science and anthropology. You'll also walk among volcanos and snorkel among rays and turtles. An unforgettable encounter with the Galapagos!
Perfect for: Families, travelers both young and old, seeking an encompassing view of the Galapagos and many different activities
Galápagos — North & Central Islands aboard the San Jose
This short but meaningful cruise through the Galapagos will introduce you to many of the incredible sights the islands are known for. Observe the famous wildlife, visit volcanos, and enjoy hikes through the many different micro-environments and unique vegetation.
Perfect for: Travelers looking for a short but exciting tour through the Galapagos
Galapagos Islands Sailing
With ROW Adventures, get ready for an unforgettable view of the Galapagos Islands aboard a small 70' yacht, which by design is able to traverse smaller byways than its larger cousins. Visit 5 islands, including some smaller and less traveled to by major tours and cruises. Observe the incredible wildlife and enjoy a lot of time outdoors, hiking, kayaking, and getting to know the many unusual landscapes of the Galapagos.
Perfect for: Active travelers seeking a tour with a certain degree of comfort, but also a lot of outdoor activities and hiking opportunities
Galapagos Extension - Central Islands
Spend 7 days getting to know some of the Galapagos main islands in depth. Learn the history of Darwin's many discoveries, the incredible wildlife that led him to his groundbreaking theories about evolution, and enjoy the beautiful diversity to be found in the plant and animal life among stunning landscapes. This tour offers a great balance of comfort and activity.
Perfect for: Adventurous travelers visiting Ecuador who are looking for a quick but meaningful tour through the Galapagos
Simply Galapagos: Easy Land-Based Explorations
Myths and Mountains are known for their in depth cultural tours, and this 8 day tour through the Galapagos is no exception. Enjoy easy excursions to see the incredible wildlife of the Galapagos and capturing the diversity through your camera. This tour offers the luxury of choosing what activities to partake in, and also provides recommendations for where to eat and what to do.
Perfect for: Older travelers who want some independence but are also looking for the comforts a tour can provide. Those who want a less strenuous tour but still want to enjoy all the Galapagos has to offer.
Galapagos Island Hopper - South America Vacation Tours
This 6 day cruise brings you to some of the main islands of the Galapagos, providing a wonderful introduction to the region's history, natural phenomena and wildlife. You'll visit Isabela Island, Santa Cruz Island, and San Cristobal Island, with a range of educational, adventure, and relaxing activities on each.
Perfect for: young single and solo travelers, looking for a fun, active, budget friendly cruise
Classic Itineraries in the Galapagos
Many budget minded tours to the Galapagos will be around one week to seven days. Here are some classic itineraries to help narrow down your search.
Galapagos in 1 Week
In one week, you're tour of the Galapagos will stop at some of the major islands, including where Darwin first came ashore. You'll learn the history of the area, see tons of wildlife, and take tours of volcanos. It truly is the trip of a lifetime!
Day 1-2, Quito: Take a tour of “Colonial Quito”, see La Compania church and the city of San Juan
Day 3-4, San Cristobal Island: Visit the Interpretation Center to learn the history of the islands. Playa Mann, spot the famous blue footed boobie and other indigenous bird species in Punta Pitt. Take zodiac rides around the island.
Day 5, Isla Espanola: See more rare and significant bird species including Darwin Finches. You’ll also see sea lions in Gardner Bay, and have the opportunity to go sea kayaking and snorkeling to view wildlife under the water’s surface.
Day 6-7, Santa Cruz Island: Las Primicias tortoise reserve, visit the Darwin Research Station. Spend some time in Puerto Ayora.
See All Galapagos Islands in One Week Trips
Galapagos & Machu Picchu in 2 Weeks
Oftentimes, tours to the Galapagos will be combined with a journey to Machu Picchu as well. This is an epic trip, seeing two fabeled and historical places of the world in one tour. Get ready for an unforgettable time, and be sure to bring an extra SD card for your camera!
Day 1-2, Cuzco: Take a walking tour, and use this time to acclimate to the altitude. Visit Plaza de Armas and take a Sacred Valley tour.
Day 3-4, Machu Picchu: Take the VistaDome train to Machu Picchu and explore the town of Agua Calientes. Get a good night sleep before the dawn bus up to the ruins for an all day tour learning the history of the famous site. Climb Huayna Picchu for spectacular views.
Day 5, Lima: Tour this colonial-era city
Day 6, Quito: Explore Quito’s old town and discover the colonial history. See La Compania church and the city of San Juan. Visit the nearby cloud forest.
Day 7, Santa Cruz Island: Las Primicias tortoise reserve, visit the Darwin Research Station. Spend some time in Puerto Ayora.
Day 8, Isla Espanola: See more rare and significant bird species including Darwin Finches. You’ll also see sea lions in Gardner Bay, and have the opportunity to go sea kayaking and snorkeling to view wildlife under the water’s surface.
Day 9, Santiago Island: Buccaneer Cove, incredible rock formations
Day 10, Bartholomew Island: Penguins, lava lizards, and beautiful white beaches
Day 11-12, San Cristobal Island: Visit the Interpretation Center to learn the history of the islands. Playa Mann, spot the famous blue footed boobie and other indigenous bird species in Punta Pitt. Take zodiac rides around the island.
