Elevate team members Lana Byal and Emily Jump are just back from an epic scouting trip in the Galapagos Islands. They’re eager to share their insights to help you maximize your time in the islands.
You can choose from live-aboard, land-based, and hybrid itineraries that combine cruising with land-based stays.
Why a motor yacht-based trip might be right for you
Maximize the number of islands: There are 14 islands where yachts can land within the Galapagos. If you’re keen to see as many islands and as much wildlife as possible, sleeping on board offers the most efficient approach! You’ll wake up in one place, visit your first island, then navigate between islands during lunch or overnight. Each island has its own unique evolutionary history, and navigating by sea will help you understand how they relate to each other.
Enjoy a social travel experience: Being on board a boat is ideal if you prefer to keep an active pace and enjoy a more social travel experience. Each boat comes with a certified naturalist guide, and you’ll join other travelers for daily excursions to various islands.
Check out a sample yacht-based itinerary.
Why a land-based trip might be right for you
Experience ultimate flexibility: For families that prefer to set their own pace, sleeping on solid ground offers many advantages. Balance boat excursions with land adventures such as hiking, biking, kayaking, and beach time.
Explore the unique flora and fauna of Santa Cruz: See giant tortoises roam freely. Visit forests full of giant flowers and lush, green calderas. Venture to a white sand beach where you can kayak among sea turtles.
Take day trips to nearby islands: Navigate to the uninhabited islands of Santa Fe, North Seymour, and Española for epic wildlife encounters, or enjoy incredible views on the otherworldly volcanic island of Bartolome. Keep your eyes out for diminutive Galapagos penguins, iguanas, sea lions, magnificent frigate birds, and iconic blue-footed boobies.
Check out a sample land-based itinerary.
Why a hybrid trip might be right for you
You’ll get the best of both worlds! Shorter cruises can be paired with a post-cruise, land-based stay at a lodge on Santa Cruz, San Cristobal, or Isabela Island.
We work with a select portfolio of lodges and cruise operators and are able to match you with the best experience for your interests and budget. Ask us about boats that accommodate young children too.
For the ultimate in luxury and flexibility, we can charter a private boat for your family and/or friends.
Speak with a Galapagos travel designer.
Reach out with any other questions
Emily and Lana are just back from the Galapagos and are happy to answer any questions that you have about planning a bucket-list Galapagos adventure.
The Galapagos are one of the world’s most treasured natural sanctuaries — and one of our most fragile. Every Elevate trip is designed to help protect this unique island ecosystem.
More ideas
Explore our Galapagos itineraries for inspiration for your next custom adventure!
