Galapagos Island Hopping - 7 days

Galapagos Island Hopping - 7 days

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7 Days From

$3505

Galapagos Island Hopping - 7 days

7 Days Starting and ending in Baltra Island

Visiting: Baltra Island, Discovering Santa Cruz Island, Floreana Island, Isabela Island & Las Tintoreras , Exploring Isabela Island, Isabela to Santa Cruz Island

Tour operator:

On The Go Tours

Tour code:

2383/GIH

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

2 - 16

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

Minimum age 6

Tour operated in:

English
From: $3505

NB: Prices correct on 05-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Discover one of the planet’s top wildlife destinations on a 7-day Galapagos island hopping adventure, staying in first class accommodation on the islands. From Baltra Island, take in beautiful landscapes and encounter incredible wildlife on the islands of Santa Cruz, Floreana and Isabela, topped off with a hike up Sierra Negra Volcano.

Highlights

  • Santa Cruz Island - Observe Giant Tortoises in their natural habitat at a farm in the highlands

  • Santa Cruz Island – Visit the famous Charles Darwin Research Station and see the embalmed body of the world-famous tortoise, Lonesome George

  • Santa Cruz Island - Follow the Tortuga Bay trail to reach one of the most beautiful beaches in the Galapagos, where you can swim and soak up the sun next to the marine Iguanas, boobies and marine birds

  • Floreana Island – See a colony of sea lions and perhaps some blue footed bobbies, marine iguanas and marine turtles

  • Floreana Island - Walk to historic Asilo de La Paz, where the legendary Witmer family first settled in 1932 and lived in caves

  • Isabela Island – Explore the largest island of the Archipelago, visiting the beautiful beach of Puerto Villamil and Isabela’s Tortoise Breeding Centre

  • Isabela Island - Enjoy a scenic hike in the area known as “Las Tintoreras", spot colonies of marine iguanas, sea lions and white-tipped sharks

  • Isabela Island - Visit the highlands of Isabela and walk to the rim of the impressive crater of the Sierra Negra Volcano, where you'll enjoy spectacular views

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Baltra Island

Location: Baltra Island

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Overnight: Puerto Ayora - Santa Cruz Island

Meals Included: Lunch

Baltra Island - Santa Cruz Island. Upon arrival at Baltra Island airport, you will be met by our guide and transferred to the city of Puerto Ayora, the largest in the Galapagos Archipelago, on the island of Santa Cruz. On the way, we travel by local ferry across the beautiful Itabaca Channel which separates Baltra and Santa Cruz Island. Once on the other side of the channel we transfer up to the highlands of Santa Cruz island to visit a private farm where we will have our first amazing Galapagos experience, observing the giant Galapagos Tortoises in their natural habitat. Then we transfer to our hotel in the town of Puerto Ayora. Spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Day 2: Discovering Santa Cruz Island

Location: Discovering Santa Cruz Island

Accommodation Name: Overnight: Puerto Ayora – Santa Cruz Island

Meals Included: Breakfast

Following an early hotel breakfast, we embark on a hike to Tortuga Bay Beach, renowned as one of the most beautiful beaches in the Archipelago. After a 40–60-minute walk, we reach this heavenly spot with soft coral sand and picturesque scenery. The initial beach section has strong waves, making it unsuitable for swimming. However, a 10-minute walk leads to a serene bay. Here, we marvel at a colony of marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and marine birds amidst mangroves, cacti forest, and captivating coastal flora. We enjoy beach time before returning to town via a local ferry at which point we have lunch.





In the afternoon, we walk to the Fausto Llerena Interpretation Centre for insights into the Galapagos National Park's work. We observe tortoises of various species and sizes, along with land iguanas. Inside the centre, a special air-conditioned chamber houses the embalmed body of the iconic Lonesome George. We explore the small museum at the Charles Darwin Research Station, and savour free time after this enriching experience.

Day 3: Floreana Island

Location: Floreana Island

Accommodation Name: Overnight: Puerto Velazco Ibarra - Floreana Island

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Santa Cruz Island - Floreana Island. Early this morning we embark on a 2.5-hour journey aboard the first-class Galapagos Element Wind Yacht to Floreana Island's historic Puerto Velasco Ibarra. A local water taxi transports us to the pier, where we hope to encounter sea lions and marine iguanas basking in the morning sun. A brief walk leads to a secluded lodge by the ocean, our overnight stay.





Next, a local "Chiva" transport takes us on a 15-minute ride to Floreana's highlands, where we enjoy a pleasant walk amid the area's typical flora and have encounters with giant Galapagos Tortoises. Continuing our exploration, we reach "Asilo de la Paz" (Peace Asylum), a historic site where the Wittmer family settled in 1932. After lunch and a rejuvenating rest, we proceed to a beautiful bay and potentially snorkel with sea lions and marine turtles. The entire area boasts breathtaking beauty. We conclude the day with dinner and a peaceful rest while enjoying the sunset.

Day 4: Isabela Island & Las Tintoreras

Location: Isabela Island & Las Tintoreras

Accommodation Name: Overnight: Puerto Villamil – Isabela Island

Meals Included: Breakfast

Floreana Island - Isabela Island. After a leisurely breakfast we set sail towards Puerto Villamil, the largest town on Isabela Island. During the 2.5-hour journey, anticipate sightings of marine turtles, manta rays, diverse marine birds, dolphins, and possibly whales. Upon reaching the bay of Puerto Villamil, local transport takes us to our hotel and there's time to relax on the expansive beach.





In the afternoon, around 2 p.m., we join a captivating guided tour to "Las Tintoreras." This picturesque area features colonies of marine iguanas, sea lions, and the highlight—White-tipped sharks, known as "Tintoreras," resting in lava flow-formed channels. The locale is ideal for snorkelling, offering encounters with sea lions, penguins, and marine turtles. We return to the hotel and unwind during the late afternoon.

Day 5: Exploring Isabela Island

Location: Exploring Isabela Island

Accommodation Name: Overnight: Puerto Villamil – Isabela Island

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Early this morning we take a 30-minute drive to the highlands of Isabela Island, reaching the National Park's visitor control area. Embark on an easy 1.5 hour walk to the rim of the Sierra Negra Volcano, the world's second-largest crater. This impressive caldera, measuring 5 miles by 7 miles, offers one of the most spectacular views in the Galapagos.





In the afternoon we drive to Isabela's Tortoise Breeding Centre where we encounter Giant Galapagos Tortoises of various species and sizes. We continue on a well-maintained trail to the "Humedales" (Wetlands), showcasing lagoons surrounded by mangroves and local flora. Witness flamingos and migratory birds in the lagoons. Our walk ends at the main road and beach, providing us time to enjoy the surroundings with marine iguanas. We the return to the hotel for free some time before dinner.

Day 6: Isabela To Santa Cruz Island

Location: Isabela to Santa Cruz Island

Accommodation Name: Overnight: Puerto Ayora – Santa Cruz Island

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Isabela Island - Santa Cruz Island. This morning we board our yacht and sail back to Santa Cruz, looking out for dolphins en route. Upon arrival, we check into our hotel and venture to the highlands for a visit to a coffee plantation. We enjoy a delightful light lunch and savour some free time before our farewell dinner.

Day 7: Baltra Island

Location: Baltra Island

Meals Included: Breakfast

Santa Cruz - Baltra. After breakfast we drive to the highlands of Santa Cruz Island, making a stop at the natural formation known as "The Twins" Craters. These are sinkholes, not volcanic craters, formed by the collapse of the volcanic roof of an empty magma chamber due to tectonic shifts and erosion. The area boasts a unique climate, surrounded by scalesia forests and is home to various bird species.





Travelling on to the Itabaca Canal, we cross it and take an airline bus to the airport. Our guide will help you with check in for your onward flight to Quito or Guayaquil (not included).



Please note that we can book your domestic Galapagos flights, accommodation in Quito or Guayaquil and airport transfers upon request. Please contact us for details.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    3 star hotels & simple community guest house

  • 5 nights 4 star hotels and 1 night simple lodge on Floreana Island

  • 6 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 4 dinners

  • Guided excursions and walks on Santa Cruz Island, Floreana Island and Isabela Island

  • Galapagos N.P. entrance fees and visitor control card (included in 2024, payable locally in 2025)

  • Professional English/Spanish speaking Galapagos Naturalist Guide

  • All transfers and navigations between the islands on board of the Galapagos Element Wind Yacht

  • Baltra airport arrival and departure transfer

  • Entrance fees

What's Not Included

  • Domestic and International flights, airport taxes and visas

  • Tipping – an entirely personal gesture

  • From January 2025 onwards - Galapagos National Park entrance fee (US$200pp) and Migration Control Card (US$20pp). Subject to change.

Accommodation

Ikala Galapagos Hotel, Santa Cruz Island



The new Ikala Galapagos Hotel on Santa Cruz Island is a luxurious and well-appointed hotel with featuring a swimming pool, stylish bar area and a beautiful terrace offering a fabulous view over Puerto Ayora harbour. After a long day exploring you can enjoy a delicious cocktail or locally sourced Galapagos inspired meal at the Ikala Terrace Bar & Restaurant. Make yourself at home in one of the elegantly decorated rooms featuring a private balcony, en suite bathroom and with all the modern amenities.



The hotel is well located just one block away from the main pier and within easy reach of the main streets of Puerto Ayora where you will find plenty of shops, boutiques, restaurants and bars.





Floreana Lava Lodge, Floreana Island



The Lava Lodge is perched at the edge of a black lava beach in a sheltered bay, this quaint family run accommodation is made up of 10 Ocean facing wooden cabins in a wonderfully secluded location. Each Chalet has its own wooden decking with chairs providing fabulous views of the sea, sunsets and stars. Much of the food served at the lodge has been grown on the family’s organic farm, here you can expect delicious meals served in a relaxing environment and there’s often special BBQ evenings. The comfortable cabins feature either twin beds or bunk beds a private bathroom and are each equipped with the essentials, including air-conditioning.



The Lodge is a 5 minute walk from the nearest village and only a couple of minutes walk from a sea lion colony.





La Casa de Marita Hotel, Isabela Island



Nestled amongst palm trees La Casa de Marita is a charming boutique hotel located on a beautiful white-sand beach of Puerto Villamil, on Isabela Island. There is a lovely garden to relax in or perhaps head to the beach area complete with hammocks and sun loungers, perfect for an afternoon siesta. The restaurant fuses local and International cuisine and only uses produce grown and farmed locally. Each room has been individually decorated and feature private balcony or terrace with ocean or garden views, and all come with AC, mini bar and en-suite bathroom.



Located in Puerto Villamil, Isabela’s only true town, Casa de Marita is a five-minute walk to the boardwalk where you will find local restaurants and shops.

Age Policy

Minimum age 6

Check out our Q&As

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1998

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

Reviews of this operator

Nicola Hodgkinson (Google Reviewer)  

Recently returned from Greece, a...

07-May-2024

Recently returned from Greece, a 5 day tour with OTG. Unfortunately, I had a negative experience on day 2 where I needed local support to get me out of a tricky situation. Thank you to Alexandra Z from Hetco Tours in Athens for helping me continue on with the trip, to the Hotel Zafolia staffing team and to Danielle and team here in the UK for supporting me with the aftermath. Your kindness will not be forgotten and I will pay it forward. I've now booked 3 trips with yourselves and will continue to go back. Thank you all. Honestly, I am SO grateful. Blessings to you all. Nicola

Calvin  

Wonderful experience

05-Jan-2023

Jamal is our tour guide. Right from the start, he created a group chat in whatsapp and if any issues to make sure we contact him. He was on the ball with every issue thrown at him. Luggage being left behind, stragglers wondered off in a different path, hotel room etc. He explains the various site along our route to give us a better understanding of the local cultures. We had a great time, thanks to Jamal.

Trustpilot
Norma Sullivan  

Land of the Northern Lights 5 day tour of Iceland

10-Sep-2021

The Land of Northern Lights tour was a triumph! My tour of Southern Iceland was absolutely wonderful. The venues chosen, the timing allotted at each venue and the variety of things to experience was nearly perfect. Our guide, "Thor", was smart, amusing, full of history and anecdotal stories as well as being incredibly hospitable and helpful. This small group experience was my first, but not my last thanks to On the Go.

Trawls (Google Reviewer)  

On The Go Tours Sri...

05-Feb-2024

On The Go Tours Sri Lanka was an incredible experience that was made even better by our tour guide Akthar. He was incredibly knowledgeable about his country and he loved sharing it with us. The tour covers a wide range of activities so you can truly experience what Sri Lanka is all about. The beautiful 4-5 star hotels at the end of every day was an absolute bonus. Thanks for a great trip OTGT I’m sure this won’t be my last

Xtreme Floor Care (Google Reviewer)  

Traveled through Egypt with On...

30-Nov-2023

Traveled through Egypt with On the Go Tours, professional service, very informative and helpful tour guides. The choice of hotels was excellent... Definitely recommend this company

Gavin Harrigan  

King Tutankhamun 10 day tour of Egypt

16-Sep-2021

I have just returned from my tour with On The Go and it was an amazing trip! From arriving at the airport and meeting the OTG representative, everything was well organised and hassle free.  Our tour guide was Amir. He is awesome!! From the beginning he was so friendly and enthusiastic about showing us around Egypt, giving us loads of information at each place and time to explore ourselves. Learnt so much from him about this fascinating place, and he was always happy to answer more questions.   The trip itself was amazing. There's lots of travelling on this trip, but it's really not too bad, and the sights you see when you get to where you are going are worth it. I'm not a big fan of boats, but the Felluca ride across the Nile was pretty fun too.  On the first day I also did the optional tour of Cairo with Ahmed Helal - another excellent guide from OTG. It's worth doing this add on as you don't spend much time in Cairo, and you go to three very different places.  I'm so glad that I decided to do this trip. It was just ace.  If you're thinking about it too, you should probably just book it. And hopefully you get Amir as your guide.

Paul Kelly (Google Reviewer)  

TOTALLY MOROCCO We booked a 9...

26-Feb-2023

TOTALLY MOROCCO We booked a 9 day tour of Morocco visiting many main cities and places of interest. The coach was very comfortable and we felt safe with the driver Suliman. The guide was Hicham Touraouine and he was fantastic. He spoke perfect English as well as French, Arabic and Berber. He was so kind and considerate and made a good tour great. We particularly enjoyed ‘glamming in the Sahara Desert. So much to see and do and great food and company. We would definitely use On The Go Tours again, especially if Hicham was the guide. Paul & Penny

Joyce Heitler (Google Reviewer)  

I would give this tour...

09-May-2024

I would give this tour group no stars if possible. The tour was not guaranteed but they did not inform me when I booked and they did not have enough people. Way after I booked they said I needed a doctors letter because I was over 70. Also way after booking I was informed I needed travel insurance. They knew my age when I booked. They would not refund my tour even though it was 4 months away.

Sarah Paterson (Google Reviewer)  

Terrible tour of India. For...

27-Dec-2023

Terrible tour of India. For some reason On the Go hadn't realised that my room mate had booked her own room for the first night of tour. So the hotel in Delhi had tried to put me in her room after midnight, by wheeling in an extra bed. She went Crazy!! I then had to sit in hotel reception for hours. While the tour guide said he couldn't find me a room. Throughout the tour the guide consistently ask me and my room mate for money for my room, causing more friction between us. Don't book with this company had the worst experience ever. Go with Intrepid or G Adventure

brandy hoffman (Google Reviewer)  

I had used them once...

09-Aug-2023

I had used them once before and loved them. I decided to try them again for a Baltic tour not knowing that they put me on another Tour group- Baltic vision. Loved that tour but was not impressed they marked up the cost for me over 100%. I understand taking some for yourself because of paperwork, but over double the cost everyone else paid on the tour. Just double check before you book with them that you’re not over paying.

1 Select your preferred date

Thursday - Wednesday

Dec 12, 2024 - Dec 18, 2024
$3645

Wednesday - Tuesday

Mar 19, 2025 - Mar 25, 2025
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Wednesday - Tuesday

Apr 16, 2025 - Apr 22, 2025
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Jun 10, 2025 - Jun 16, 2025
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Aug 18, 2025 - Aug 24, 2025
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Dec 12, 2025 - Dec 18, 2025
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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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