5-Day Galapagos Island Hopping Expedition – Galapagos Land Tour

This 5-Day Galapagos Island Hopping Expedition is crafted for travelers who want to experience the islands in a short time, from the vibrant coastal towns to the underwater quiet of lava-formed snorkel sites. Designed as a Galapagos land tour expedition, it blends wildlife encounters, human moments, and responsible travel, letting you explore Isabela and Santa Cruz with intention. Whether you’re snorkeling with sea turtles in Los Túneles or walking beside giant tortoises in the highlands, this Galapagos island-hopping itinerary brings you close to the heart of the archipelago—warm, personal, and unforgettable.

Departure

All year round

Duration

5 dias, 4 noites

Group Size

Up to 12 travelers

Travel-Style

small group adventure expedition

Recommended Age

6+ years old

Adventure Pace

Moderate (tooltips: balanced pace, active but not extreme)

Incluído

4 nights’ accommodation, airport transfers, land transportation, boat transfers, meals (tooltips: breakfasts and lunches), naturalist guides, entrance fees, and gear.

Não incluído

round-trip airfare, travel insurance, dinners, Galapagos NP fee (200 USD pp), Galapagos Card (20 USD pp)

Takiri Tip

Arrive at Baltra (GPS) before 11:30 am and depart after 12:30 pm for a smoother trip!

DAY 1 – ARRIVAL IN BALTRA & TRANSFER TO ISABELA

Step into Baltra’s warm, dry breeze and feel like entering another world with frigatebirds hovering above and lava fields shining in the sun. You cross Santa Cruz at an easy pace, stopping in Puerto Ayora for a comforting local lunch before the afternoon boat carries you toward Isabela’s soft light and quiet charm. A short visit to the Flamingo Lagoon adds a gentle first touch of wildlife before settling into your hotel for a relaxed evening.

DAY 2 – LOS TÚNELES SNORKELING ADVENTURE

Explore the turquoise Pacific waters as you navigate toward Los Túneles, where arches of black lava shelter calm pools filled with turtles, rays, and curious penguins. Snorkeling here feels like floating through a dream—clear water, soft sunlight, and the slow rhythm of marine life moving beside you. A small hike and lunch on board complete this 6-hour adventure, guided by local experts who know every corner of the site.

DAY 3 – BOAT TO SANTA CRUZ, DARWIN CENTER & HIGHLANDS

The early boat to Santa Cruz carries soft morning light across the sea before you arrive in Puerto Ayora and visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, where conservation efforts come alive through decades of scientific work. After lunch, the highlands welcome you with mossy forests, lava tunnels, giant tortoises wandering freely at Primicias, and the deep green sinkholes of Los Gemelos. A visit to a traditional Trapiche Farm closes the day, sharing local stories of sugarcane and coffee made the old-fashioned way.

DAY 4 – PINZÓN ISLAND & LA FE BAY

A calm sea and sunlit cliffs guide you toward Pinzón, where playful sea lions, turtles, and reef sharks fill some of the clearest waters of the archipelago. Snorkeling here feels effortless—just warm currents, bright fish, and the quiet hum of the Pacific. After lunch on board, you drift toward La Fe Bay, a sheltered turquoise cove perfect for one last slow swim or simply floating in the gentle afternoon light.

DAY 5 – GOODBYE GALAPAGOS!

Your final morning leads through the cool highlands of Santa Cruz, the scenery shifting from green forests to the dry, open landscapes of Baltra. As you travel toward the airport, the islands offer one last calm, lingering farewell—misty hills, soft bird calls, and the feeling of having experienced something timeless. Ideal for flights departing after 12:30 pm.

At Takiri, we design local expert tours that honor the islands and the people who care for them. We work with community-run farms, family-owned lodges, naturalist guides, and small operators—ensuring your trip supports the Galapagos in meaningful ways. Responsible travel isn’t just a trend for us: it’s the way we do things!

What is the travel style on the Galapagos island-hopping trips?

The itineraries are designed as active expeditions on a flexible independent travel basis, which means that in some activities, other Takiri travelers might join you, while in others, you’ll have private guided tours. You’ll always have someone to assist you throughout the islands.

Are there any specific requirements for the Galapagos flights?

You can book your flights to start your trip on any date of your preference. We strongly recommend arriving at Baltra airport (GPS airport code) by 11:30 am (or less), and departing after 12:30 pm from the same airport for a better and smoother experience.

What are the names of the accommodations included?

On these expeditions, you will stay in family-run hotels such as the Cally Hotel in Isabela Island and the Lava House Hotel in Santa Cruz. You will have private rooms with ensuite bathrooms, hot water, air conditioning, and wifi. You can find more info here: Our Hotels In Galapagos (link to the blog).

Do you offer customized tours?

Yes, all our itineraries can be personalized up to your preferences and budget. Whether you want to upgrade your accommodations, extend your stay, or combine it with tours in Ecuador’s mainland or the Amazon. You just need to contact us, and we’ll put together a trip for you.

What wildlife can I expect to see in Isabela and Santa Cruz?

This itinerary focuses on wildlife spotting, such as giant tortoises, black marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds, pink flamingos, green sea turtles, white-tip reef sharks, and Galapagos penguins.

Is this itinerary good for families with kids?

Yes, the flexible travel style allows families with kids to make the most of their trip. These expeditions offer a balanced pace between moderate-level activities and some free time to rest and relax. For families with children younger than 6 years old, we suggest contacting us directly to craft a personalized tour.

What’s the best season for visiting the Galapagos?

The Galapagos Islands are an all-year-round destination with amazing wildlife in every month. High season typically runs from March–April, June–September, and December–January; the rest of the year is lower season with fewer visitors. From December–May, expect warmer weather and calmer seas; and June–November brings cooler, drier conditions with nutrient-rich waters. Average temperatures range from the 70s–80s°F (21–30°C) year-round.

Are the speedboat rides comfortable?

The speedboat rides (2.5 hours approx) have upgraded their services since 2021; you can now have your own seat (so it’s less bumpy) and satellite internet. Most travelers take motion sickness pills when navigating, or you can take a small interisland plane (contact us for prices).

Is 5 days enough to visit the Galapagos?

This program was designed for travelers who have just a few days available. You’ll visit three islands and the highlight sites of each, such as Los Tuneles in Isabela, the giant tortoise farms in Santa Cruz, and La Fe bay in Pinzon.