10 Days Galapagos Island Hopping: Santa Cruz & Isabela Island

Experience the Wonders of the Galapagos in 10 Days

A trip through the Galapagos Islands is a bucket-list adventure that promises encounters with unique wildlife, volcanic landscapes, and unforgettable scenery. This 10-day island-hopping tour takes you from Quito’s bustling city streets to the pristine shores of Santa Cruz and Isabela islands, with expert guides leading the way. For $2,245 per person, you’ll explore incredible habitats, snorkel alongside sea lions, hike volcanic craters, and witness giant tortoises in their natural environment.

Two aspects we especially appreciate are the variety of activities — from snorkeling to hiking — and the focus on sustainable, authentic experiences. You get a well-rounded look at both land and sea, making every day exciting and diverse. However, keep in mind that this is a non-refundable tour, so flexibility is limited if weather or other factors cause changes.

This experience suits travelers who are comfortable with moderate physical activity and who want a comprehensive, guided look at these iconic islands. If you’re eager to see rare wildlife and enjoy a mix of adventure and comfort, this tour is a strong pick.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Combines land excursions, snorkeling, and hiking for a full Galapagos experience.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable local guides enhance understanding of the islands’ ecology.
• Stunning Landscapes: From volcanic craters to pristine beaches, the scenery is diverse and captivating.
• Wildlife Encounters: Opportunities to see giant tortoises, marine iguanas, penguins, and seabirds up close.
• Active Days: Many days involve walking, kayaking, or snorkeling, suitable for travelers with moderate fitness.
• All-Inclusive Value: Most meals, transportation, and activities are included, offering convenience and good value.

An In-Depth Look at the Galapagos 10-Day Island Hopping Tour

Exploring the Galapagos with this 10-day itinerary offers a well-balanced mix of guided excursions, free time, and immersive wildlife encounters. It’s designed to maximize your time on these extraordinary islands while providing comfort and expert guidance.

Starting in Quito: Gateway to the Galapagos

Your journey begins in Quito, a city that itself deserves a visit. Sitting at over 9,350 feet, Quito’s UNESCO World Heritage status means you’ll find a beautifully preserved colonial center, lively plazas, and a vibrant scene of markets and local artisans. It’s the perfect launchpad, and your transfer from the airport ensures a smooth start.

Day 2: From Quito to Santa Cruz Island

Your first stop is Baltra Airport, the gateway to Santa Cruz. Here, the tour really begins. Your guide will introduce you to the giant tortoises at a highland farm, a true highlight. Watching these gentle giants roam their habitat and learning about shell shape evolution from your guide provides an insightful start.

Later, you’ll visit the Charles Darwin Station in Puerto Ayora, where you’ll see the breeding programs and conservation efforts that help protect these iconic creatures. The combination of wildlife and science makes this a compelling introduction to the islands’ ecological importance.

Days 3-4: Exploring Santa Cruz and Tortuga Bay

On Day 3, you’ll venture to one of three possible uninhabited islands—South Plazas, Bartolomé, or North Seymour—each offering a unique experience. Whether you prefer spotting endemic land iguanas, marveling at lava formations, or observing blue-footed boobies and frigate birds, the diversity of scenery and wildlife here is remarkable.

Day 4 features a relaxing kayak trip to Tortuga Bay, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Galapagos. The hike to the bay is a scenic 45-minute walk, and once there, you can snorkel among colorful fish and sea turtles, or simply soak up the sun while spotting marine birds.

Day 5-6: Transition to Isabela Island—Volcanoes and Tortoises

A speedboat trip takes you to Isabela Island, the largest in the archipelago. Here, the wildlife and landscapes take a slight shift in focus. The Giant Tortoise Breeding Station and Flamingo Lagoon offer close-up wildlife encounters, revealing the diversity of habitats.

The highlight of Day 6 is the Sierra Negra Volcano hike. This six-hour trek ascends to one of the largest volcanic craters in the world, offering panoramic views of volcanic landscapes and neighboring islands. The trail’s geological features and the lush, though constantly changing, vegetation provide a fascinating glimpse into the islands’ volcanic origins.

Day 7: Free Day on Isabela

This is your chance to explore at your own pace. Rent a bike to visit the Wall of Tears, a poignant historical site built by prisoners, or relax on Concha Perla, known for excellent snorkeling. Many reviewers mention this as a highlight, describing Isabela as a “paradise” for both adventure and rest.

Days 8-9: Back to Santa Cruz and Marine Encounters

Returning by boat to Santa Cruz, you’ll explore the bay area with visits to La Lobería, home to a large colony of sea lions, and the Shark Channel, where you can spot harmless sharks, turtles, and an array of tropical fish. The snorkeling here is described as spectacular, with some reviewers noting dolphins, rays, and even penguins.

The last full day on the islands offers a final immersion into the Galapagos’ marine life, with opportunities to snorkel in serene waters and see the colorful underwater world that makes this archipelago so special.

Final Day: Departure and Quito

On your final day, there’s some free time for souvenirs in Puerto Ayora before returning to Quito. The transfer involves a ferry across the Itabaca Channel, followed by a shuttle bus to the airport. The smooth logistics ensure you leave with fond memories, and enough time to reflect on your adventure.

What We Loved About This Tour

First, the expert guides make all the difference. Reviewers repeatedly praised guides like Santiago and Tamer for their knowledge and approachable manner, which enhances both wildlife spotting and understanding of ecological issues.

Second, the variety of activities—from snorkeling and kayaking to volcanic hikes and wildlife watching—means there’s never a dull moment. The combination means you experience both land and sea, making this tour very well-rounded.

A third highlight is its value for money. With most meals, transfers, and activities included, the upfront cost covers a lot, especially considering the exclusivity of the wildlife encounters and the convenience of guided tours.

A Gentle Caveat

Given the active nature of some days—particularly the Sierra Negra hike—and the fact that the tour is non-refundable, travelers should be prepared for physical activity and flexible with weather conditions. A few reviewers noted that weather can impact island visits, so being adaptable is wise.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who want a guided, educational, and immersive experience of the Galapagos. It appeals to those comfortable with moderate physical activity, interested in wildlife, volcanic landscapes, and snorkeling. Nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts will find the highlights particularly rewarding.

It also suits travelers looking for value-packed trips that include most meals and activities, removing the hassle of planning each detail. However, if you’re seeking very luxurious accommodations or a highly flexible schedule, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts

The 10 Days Galapagos Island Hopping offers a thoroughly engaging experience of the archipelago’s most iconic sights, with a good mix of adventure, wildlife, and scenic beauty. With knowledgeable guides, well-organized logistics, and a focus on authentic experiences, it provides both comfort and discovery.

This is a tour for those who want to see the best of the Galapagos in a manageable, well-paced format—whether you’re a wildlife buff, a hiker, or simply someone eager to connect with nature. Many travelers have called it “an unforgettable journey,” and based on the reviews, the trip delivers on that promise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
While the tour involves some active days and moderate walking, families with children comfortable with physical activity will enjoy the experience. Always check your child’s stamina for hikes and snorkeling.

Are all meals included?
Most breakfasts and three lunches are included, but additional meals, drinks, and personal expenses are not. You may want to budget extra for snacks or dinners not covered.

What kind of transportation is used?
Private transportation on land and public speed boats between islands are part of the itinerary. The boat trips are generally smooth, but if you’re prone to seasickness, bring appropriate remedies.

Do I need special equipment?
Snorkeling gear is provided, but you might prefer to bring your own mask and fins for a better fit. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, especially for hikes and land excursions.

Is this a physically demanding tour?
Some days involve hiking or walking for up to six hours, especially the Sierra Negra Volcano hike. Moderate fitness is recommended to enjoy the full experience comfortably.

What is the best time of year to visit?
While not explicitly stated, the weather can influence island visits. Like many tropical destinations, the dry season (June to December) offers better visibility for snorkeling, but the islands are beautiful year-round.

In essence, this tour combines the best of the Galapagos’ land and sea, guided by passionate experts, at a fair price. If your goal is to see extraordinary wildlife, hike volcanic landscapes, and snorkel in crystal waters, this 10-day journey deserves serious consideration.