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Galapagos Islands Only ground transport Tours & Trips

192 Galapagos Islands trips. Tours from 92 tour companies. 189 reviews. 4.9/5 avg rating.

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Only ground transport
Jungle, Highlands and Islands
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Jungle, Highlands and Islands

By Lost World Adventures - CAUTION
none
4.7/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Private Guided
Lodging level
Luxury - 5 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Andes Mountains, Cuenca, Galapagos, Guayaquil, Isla Santa Fe, Otavalo, Quito, San Cristobal, Santa Cruz Island

Highlights

  • Explore Quito
  • Visit Napo Wildlife Center
  • Discover Galapagos an impressive cliffs of Buccaneer Cove
  • Drive through Genovesa Island very interesting panga ride along the cliffs.
  • Experience hiking in the El Cajas National Park
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Themes

Birding, Hiking & Walking, Local Immersion & Homestays, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Transformative

What travelers are saying

"Andrew stole our money ($22,000) that we paid for a luxury Ecuador / Peru vacation. He also stole $8,000 from our friend that was meeting us in South America. He first took our calls in 2020-2021, then disconnected all numbers. We went to the credit card company, and were unable to get a refund. He is a scammer. Beware! The trip was in April 2020, but I finished with the credit card company in May 2022."

Trip dates & details
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14 days From$8,175
Price updated 1 year+ ago
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A Dive Into Nature Tour
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A Dive Into Nature Tour

By Lost World Adventures - CAUTION
none
4.7/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Private Guided
Lodging level
Luxury - 5 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Amazon Rainforest, Cotopaxi, Cuenca, Galapagos, Guayaquil, Isabela Island, Isla Santa Fe, Otavalo, Quito, Santa Cruz Island

Highlights

  • Visit the renowned market of the Otavalo Indian, industrious makers of the handicrafts
  • Explore Cuenca
  • Experience hiking in the El Cajas National Park, located on the high Andean paramo
  • Explore impressive James Island
  • Drive through Bartolomé Island (dry landing) for a hike to the summit
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Themes

50 plus, Local Immersion & Homestays, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Transformative, Scuba Diving

What travelers are saying

"Andrew stole our money ($22,000) that we paid for a luxury Ecuador / Peru vacation. He also stole $8,000 from our friend that was meeting us in South America. He first took our calls in 2020-2021, then disconnected all numbers. We went to the credit card company, and were unable to get a refund. He is a scammer. Beware! The trip was in April 2020, but I finished with the credit card company in May 2022."

Trip dates & details
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14 days From$7,094
Price updated 1 year+ ago
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A Galapagos Island Tour
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A Galapagos Island Tour

By Lost World Adventures - CAUTION
none
4.7/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Private Guided
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Galapagos, Guayaquil, Isabela Island, Isla Santiago, Otavalo, Quito

Highlights

  • Discover Quito
  • Explore Galapagos see the fascinating wild Galapagos Tortoises.
  • Visit a memorable Fernandina Island
  • Drive through Rábida Island which is unique because of it's red color rocks and sand
  • Visit beautiful Bartolome Island is situated across Sullivan Bay
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Themes

Birding, Local Immersion & Homestays, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Transformative, Scuba Diving

What travelers are saying

"Andrew stole our money ($22,000) that we paid for a luxury Ecuador / Peru vacation. He also stole $8,000 from our friend that was meeting us in South America. He first took our calls in 2020-2021, then disconnected all numbers. We went to the credit card company, and were unable to get a refund. He is a scammer. Beware! The trip was in April 2020, but I finished with the credit card company in May 2022."

Trip dates & details
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11 days From$6,139
Price updated 1 year+ ago
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All Galapagos Islands, expedition cruises, self guided adventures and vacation packages. Find the best guided and expert planned vacation and holiday packages. Read more about Galapagos Islands

Galápagos Wildlife Adventure Cruise
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Galápagos Wildlife Adventure Cruise

By MT Sobek (Mountain Travel Sobek)
none
4.8/5 Excellent
64 reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Galapagos, Isabela Island, Otavalo, Quito, Santa Cruz Island, Santiago

Highlights

  • Visit the Enchanted Islands with the pioneers in Galápagos small-group travel and sail by deluxe, privately chartered yacht—a fully MTS operated and expert-led experience!
  • Anchor at nature’s doorstep and encounter incredible endemic wildlife, including giant tortoises, marine iguanas, penguins, and more, with the full leadership of certified Class III naturalists
  • Hike, snorkel and kayak among exquisite volcanic landscapes in one of the world’s top nature destinations, while our specialist yacht crew and dedicated in-country staff attend to your every need
  • Relax in style aboard your luxury yacht and bookend your trip with a stay at a 5-star hotel in the beautiful colonial city of Quito

Themes

Family Friendly, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise, Scuba Diving

What travelers are saying

"First, let me say our tour guide Tomomi S. is hands down THE best tour guide I’ve ever had - knowledgeable, fun and made great efforts to ensure that we were comfortable and happy (MTSobek tour guides are independent contractors. Tomomi also works for other Adventure/Tour companies) Secondly, Japan is beautiful, clean and the Japanese people are very welcoming. The hiking in the national parks was amazing. It could have been a truly five-star experience if MtSobek had not cut corners so egregiously. The website said (at the time) group tours are 5-22 people. The tour gets canceled if the minimum is not met. When I paid there were TWO other people booked-a mother and daughter duo. Shortly before our departure date I called to see if the tour would be cancelled. I wanted my money back but Mt Sobek was “pleased to say that the trip would not be canceled”. In other words, I could not get a refund. At the last minute a guy named Matt signed up so there were four of us. Five days into the trip Matt left and took a train back to Tokyo. I said to him “You realize Mt Sobek is not going to refund you”. He said, “I don’t care, Mt Sobek scammed us.” With tax, the tour costs $11,645 for 13 nights. For that price there is an expectation that the accommodations Mt Sobek chooses would be decent and clean. We all fully expected a ‘traditional Japanese experience’ which often means no private bath and 8 out of the 13 nights we slept on futon mats on the floor. However, Mt Sobek consistently booked us in the cheapest Ryokans (hotels) in each area in which we travelled. Most of these hotels were unclean and very out-dated. One Ryokan they booked us in was listed on a hotel website for $40 USD/night when there were much nicer accommodations nearby for $100 USD/night. (The Japanese yen is way down, the luxury Park Hotel in Tokyo was $200 USD/night. A comparable hotel would have been about $800/night in Austin.). We were the only people staying in several hotels that accomadated many more people. The most egregious example of MtSobek’s booking the cheapest rooms is when we were booked at a large traditional ski lodge at the base of a spectacular mountain. It was beautiful on the website but had two very different wings. One wing was modern, clean and beautiful with simple beds. The other wing was very old (similar to a cheap Motel 6 that had not been updated since the 1970’s). The carpet and bathrooms were disgusting and like many of the Ryocans where we stayed the futon mats seemed as though they had not been cleaned In 30 years. Only after our tour guide checked us in did we realize we had been booked in the cheap rooms. I asked Tomo why. Immediately someone from MtSobek reached out to me and said, “gosh, I’m sorry you did not realize you were going to have a traditional Japanese experience”. Really? “Traditional” experience depends upon one’s budget. In the US, “traditional” to some people may be the Marriott, a Motel 6 or the Four Seasons Hotels. We were paying for a Marriott experience and received the one-star Motel 6 experience. Upon arrival in Tokyo I expected to be met at the airport by a driver (as many tour companies do). However, several days before our arrival dates in Tokyo, MtSobek sent an email telling us how to locate taking a city bus from the bustling Tokyo airport. That is interesting if you do not speak Japanese. MtSobek cleverly uses great photography and elaborate descriptions of the national parks and the hiking while using terms like “traditional Japanese experience with tatami-mat sleeping” to disguise sub-standard accommodations. At one point we were looking on-line at the very hotel where we were staying and did not even recognize it from the website pictures. The hiking was amazing. The group size was disappointing with just the three of us. I would absolutely recommend a hiking tour through Japan, just not with MtSobek."

Trip dates & details
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11 days From$5,895
Price updated 1 year+ ago
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Explore Machu Picchu & Cruise The Galápagos
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Explore Machu Picchu & Cruise The Galápagos

By MT Sobek (Mountain Travel Sobek)
none
4.8/5 Excellent
64 reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Cusco, Galapagos, Guayaquil, Isabela Island, Lima, Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley, Santa Cruz Island, Urubamba

Highlights

  • Explore two of Latin America’s crown jewels on one amazing two-week adventure!
  • Discover rich Andean culture and deep history in the charming, UNESCO-listed city of Cusco and experience the wonder of Machu Picchu
  • Journey through the Galápagos on a private yacht and see incredible wildlife, including sea turtles, dolphins, giant tortoises, sea lions and much, much more
  • Enjoy moments of magical discovery every step of the way and learn from expert naturalist guides

Themes

Cultural, Family Friendly, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise

What travelers are saying

"First, let me say our tour guide Tomomi S. is hands down THE best tour guide I’ve ever had - knowledgeable, fun and made great efforts to ensure that we were comfortable and happy (MTSobek tour guides are independent contractors. Tomomi also works for other Adventure/Tour companies) Secondly, Japan is beautiful, clean and the Japanese people are very welcoming. The hiking in the national parks was amazing. It could have been a truly five-star experience if MtSobek had not cut corners so egregiously. The website said (at the time) group tours are 5-22 people. The tour gets canceled if the minimum is not met. When I paid there were TWO other people booked-a mother and daughter duo. Shortly before our departure date I called to see if the tour would be cancelled. I wanted my money back but Mt Sobek was “pleased to say that the trip would not be canceled”. In other words, I could not get a refund. At the last minute a guy named Matt signed up so there were four of us. Five days into the trip Matt left and took a train back to Tokyo. I said to him “You realize Mt Sobek is not going to refund you”. He said, “I don’t care, Mt Sobek scammed us.” With tax, the tour costs $11,645 for 13 nights. For that price there is an expectation that the accommodations Mt Sobek chooses would be decent and clean. We all fully expected a ‘traditional Japanese experience’ which often means no private bath and 8 out of the 13 nights we slept on futon mats on the floor. However, Mt Sobek consistently booked us in the cheapest Ryokans (hotels) in each area in which we travelled. Most of these hotels were unclean and very out-dated. One Ryokan they booked us in was listed on a hotel website for $40 USD/night when there were much nicer accommodations nearby for $100 USD/night. (The Japanese yen is way down, the luxury Park Hotel in Tokyo was $200 USD/night. A comparable hotel would have been about $800/night in Austin.). We were the only people staying in several hotels that accomadated many more people. The most egregious example of MtSobek’s booking the cheapest rooms is when we were booked at a large traditional ski lodge at the base of a spectacular mountain. It was beautiful on the website but had two very different wings. One wing was modern, clean and beautiful with simple beds. The other wing was very old (similar to a cheap Motel 6 that had not been updated since the 1970’s). The carpet and bathrooms were disgusting and like many of the Ryocans where we stayed the futon mats seemed as though they had not been cleaned In 30 years. Only after our tour guide checked us in did we realize we had been booked in the cheap rooms. I asked Tomo why. Immediately someone from MtSobek reached out to me and said, “gosh, I’m sorry you did not realize you were going to have a traditional Japanese experience”. Really? “Traditional” experience depends upon one’s budget. In the US, “traditional” to some people may be the Marriott, a Motel 6 or the Four Seasons Hotels. We were paying for a Marriott experience and received the one-star Motel 6 experience. Upon arrival in Tokyo I expected to be met at the airport by a driver (as many tour companies do). However, several days before our arrival dates in Tokyo, MtSobek sent an email telling us how to locate taking a city bus from the bustling Tokyo airport. That is interesting if you do not speak Japanese. MtSobek cleverly uses great photography and elaborate descriptions of the national parks and the hiking while using terms like “traditional Japanese experience with tatami-mat sleeping” to disguise sub-standard accommodations. At one point we were looking on-line at the very hotel where we were staying and did not even recognize it from the website pictures. The hiking was amazing. The group size was disappointing with just the three of us. I would absolutely recommend a hiking tour through Japan, just not with MtSobek."

Trip dates & details
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14 days From$7,995
Price updated 1 year+ ago
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Ecuador & Galapagos Islands
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Ecuador & Galapagos Islands

By Rothschild Safaris
preferred
4.9/5 Excellent
53 reviews
Private Guided
Lodging level
Luxury - 5 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Andes Mountains, Galapagos, Isabela Island, Isla Santa Fe, Otavalo, Quito, San Cristobal

Highlights

  • Picturesque colonial Quito
  • Lush verdant cloud forests teeming with life
  • The hauntingly beautiful Galapagos Islands and its unique wildlife
  • Vibrant Otavalo market, overnighting in a beautiful traditional hacienda

Themes

50 plus, Cultural, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise

What travelers are saying

"We just got back from our 11 day Safari trip ALL PLANNED by Rothschild! We were celebrating my 50th birthday and I’ve always wanted to go on a safari. I researched many companies and after speaking many times with Pam Langhoff we decided upon choosing Rothschild to put together our safari trip. Best decision!!! Rothschild made all the arrangements and thought of every detail. I really had no clue about planning a safari. Pam planned everything! Every time someone was there to pick us up or take us to our next destination or see us off. Our guide and safari truck was arranged for us. All the park fees and registrations were already paid for and all the accommodations were booked and paid for and all details explained. Everything was timely and we had full communication with a contact in Africa (because of the time change 8 hours ahead if we needed anything). We even had them book our flights. They do everything and think of everything we had no idea we had to apply for a Tanzania visa.. This company is first class and takes care of every detail. We had no idea about planning and where to go. Pam put together an awesome tailored itinerary for us. We stayed 2 nights in Tarangire National Park in really really cool nice tents, then 3 nights at Gibbs Farm in the Ngorongoro Highlands and went to the crater, then flew to the Serengeti and stayed 3 nights at Serengeti Safari camp in mobile tents!! What an experience! We saw the great migration! I woke up in the Serengeti on my 50th birthday! Pam and Rachel and all the Rothschild staff were easy to work with and ask questions (trust me I had many) they planned a magical trip for my husband and 2 teenagers!! We all agree this was our favorite trip we have ever been on! We will use Rothschild again for sure!"

Trip dates & details
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13 days From$15,000
Price updated 1 year+ ago
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Quito, Galapagos and Guayaquil Special Rate Tour
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Quito, Galapagos and Guayaquil Special Rate Tour

By Tangol Tours
none
4.6/5 Excellent
9 reviews
Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Charles Darwin Research Station, Ciudad Mitad del Mundo, Galapagos, Guayaquil, Isla Bartolome, Isla Santa Fe, Quito

Highlights

  • Explore Ecuador and its natural wonders!!!
  • Visit the striking Mimddle of the World

Themes

Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"Unknowledgeable and don’t communicate. Stay away unless you want letting down last minute."

Trip dates & details
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7 days From$1,853
Price updated 1 year+ ago

Health Safety

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The Magic of Ecuador and Galapagos Tour
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The Magic of Ecuador and Galapagos Tour

By Tangol Tours
none
4.6/5 Excellent
9 reviews
Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Galapagos, Isla Bartolome, Quito, Santa Cruz Island

Highlights

  • Enjoy the colonial art of the city of Quito
  • Visit the world-famous Mercado de Otavalo and its crafts

Themes

Cultural, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"Unknowledgeable and don’t communicate. Stay away unless you want letting down last minute."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
7 days
Inquire

Health Safety

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Galapagos Islands Reviews & Ratings

4.9/5  Excellent
189  Reviews
Write a review
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Excellent
18
Great
3
Average
0
Disappointing
0
Terrible
0
J

Jerry

Oct 2015

Written on

I thought the trip was good, but

I thought the trip was good, but there were a few things that kept ...

Tour:  Best of Galapagos

P

Pam

Oct 2015

Written on

I have now had 5 Intrepid experiences

I have now had 5 Intrepid experiences and have found the tou...

Tour:  Best of Galapagos

M

Matthew

Sep 2015

Written on

Excellent local guide, amazing location, ethically sensitive

Excellent local guide, amazing location, ethically sensitive and w...

Tour:  Best of Galapagos

A

Alizah

Sep 2015

Written on

Amazing trip. Amazing guide. Great itinerary. Fell

Amazing trip. Amazing guide. Great itinerary. Fell in love with the Galápagos Islands.

Tour:  Best of Galapagos

J

Jennifer

Sep 2015

Written on

It was a great trip which selected

It was a great trip which selected highlights of the ...

Tour:  Best of Galapagos

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Galapagos Islands Tour Selection Trips

  • Guided tours are essential if you want to see Galapagos wildlife; even private yachts are required to hire guides if they wish to tour the islands.
  •  Small ship cruises allow you to make more island landings than big ships, and they can also get much closer to land to view penguins and other creatures visible mainly from the sea.
  •  A Galapagos tour can be expensive – when you add up flight costs from the Ecuadorian mainland along with flying to Ecuador and the cost of the cruise and park entrance fee – so choose your tour company carefully.
  •  Don’t even think about bringing home lava rock or other natural features from the Galapagos – you’d be subject to a $3,000 fine if caught.

Additional details

Top Galapagos Islands Travel Companies
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Travel for All Reviews
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Royal Galapagos Reviews

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