Galapagos on a Budget: 5 Days Experience

Discover an economical five-day journey through the captivating Galapagos Islands! Encounter the vibrant pink flamingos at Flamingo Lagoon, then explore the unique lava formations and diverse marine life of Los Túneles on Isabela Island, including sea turtles, and rays. Discover the historic Wall of Tears and snorkel alongside sharks, penguins and sea lions at Tintoreras Islet. Learn about conservation efforts and observe giant tortoises at the Charles Darwin Research Station. Conclude your journey with an exploration of the lush Highlands of Santa Cruz, home to land iguanas and other fascinating wildlife.

Transportation

Airport transfers for arrival and departure flights.
Sea transportation from Santa Cruz Island to Isabela Island and back to Santa Cruz island.

Gear included for the activities

Snorkeling masks, fins, and life vest

Meals

4 breakfasts
3 lunches
1 box lunch

Accommodation

4 nights in tourist class hotels

Experts

English and Spanish speaking local guides in Galapagos National Park
24/7 support from our team.

General

Mandatory Health & Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses
Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
Optional tips for guides
Extra tours or activities

Galapagos Islands Entrance

INGALA Transit Card (20 USD per person – cash only)
Galapagos National Park fee: 100 USD per person – cash only)

Transportation

Airfare Ecuador mainland to Galapagos (round trip).
Pier-use fee at Puerto Ayora (1 USD)
Pier-use fee at Puerto Villamil (10 USD).
Water taxis at ports (1 USD one way)

Renting gear for extra activities

Snorkeling gear (mask and fins) (8 USD per day pp).
Wetsuit (10 USD per day pp).

Day 1: Flamingos and white-sand beaches

Touch down in Baltra Island and journey to Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island for a traditional lunch. Then, take a speedboat to Isabela Island, home to beautiful white sandy beaches and a picturesque fishing village. Explore the Flamingo Lagoon to observe the vibrant pink flamingos.

Day 2: World class snorkelling in Los Tuneles

Wander the sandy streets of Villamil or relax on the tropical beach. Snorkel at Los Túneles Cabo Rosa, a breathtaking site with lava formations and diverse Galapagos wildlife such as sea turtles, penguins, and rays. Conclude the day with a sunset at Concha de Perla Beach.

Day 3 TROPICAL WETLANDS OF ISABELA, SWIMMING AND SNORKELING WITH WILDLIFE AT TINTORERAS

Discover Isabela Island’s diverse landscapes, from its wetlands teeming with flamingoes and endemic birds to the historic Wall of Tears. Explore the Tintoreras Islets, where you can spot white-tipped reef sharks, marine iguanas. Dive into the crystalline waters for an unforgettable snorkeling experience with a variety of marine life, including penguins and sea lions.

Day 4 ANCIENT LAVA TUNNELS AND GIANT TORTOISES AT SANTA CRUZ

Start the day with a morning speedboat to Santa Cruz Island, possibly spotting whales or dolphins. Visit the Charles Darwin Research Center to learn about conservation and see the late Lonesome George. Spend the rest of the day with giant tortoises at Primicias Ranch, observing them in their natural habitat.

Day 5 ADIOS GALAPAGOS

Depart: We’ll take you to Baltra Airport for your flight back to mainland Ecuador. Return home feeling invigorated by the energy of the extraordinary wildlife, and inspired by the unparalleled beauty of the archipelago.

Do I need a visa to visit Ecuador?

Most travelers do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. You can check here if you need a visa.

What is the best time to visit Ecuador and the Galapagos?

Ecuador is great year-round! For the Galapagos, December to May offers warmer waters and calmer seas, while June to November is cooler but excellent for diving. Different species of animals are active depending on the time of the year so you’ll always be exposed to different species all year round.

Is Ecuador safe for tourists?

Generally, most of Ecuador is safe, but like any destination, stay aware of your surroundings, avoid isolated areas at night, and keep an eye on your belongings. For more info about safe areas in Ecuador, you can read our blog.