4-Day Galapagos Island Hopping Expedition – Galapagos Land Tour

This 4-Day Galapagos Island Hopping Expedition is short, rich, and full of the encounters most travelers dream of—giant tortoises wandering through lush highlands, blue-footed boobies nesting on volcanic shores, and sea lions drifting through turquoise coves. Designed as a Galapagos land tour, it blends iconic wildlife with local stories and coastal landscapes that stay with you long after leaving the islands. If you want a Galapagos island hopping experience that feels immersive, warm, and meaningful—even in just a few days—this itinerary captures the essence of the archipelago.

Departure

All year round

Duration

4 días, 3 noches

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)

Incluye

3 nights’ accommodation, airport transfers, land transportation, guided activities, naturalist guides, meals (tooltips: breakfasts and lunches), water taxis, and gear.

No incluido

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 & HIGHLANDS OF SANTA CRUZ

Warm island air greets you as you arrive in Baltra, with frigatebirds drifting overhead and the scent of the ocean carrying through the dry brush. Crossing into Santa Cruz, the highlands unfold in deep green until you reach Primicias Farm for lunch and your first quiet walk among giant tortoises roaming freely. Lava tunnels reveal the island’s volcanic heart, and a visit to a traditional Trapiche Farm adds warm, local flavors before you settle into the soft rhythm of Puerto Ayora.

DAY 2 – SEYMOUR NORTH & BACHAS BEACH

The sea glows early as you sail toward Seymour North, where blue-footed boobies dance on black lava and frigatebirds hover like dark kites above the path. The hike feels alive—land iguanas warming in the sun, sea lions resting along the shore, and the ocean humming in the background. After lunch on board, Bachas Beach welcomes you with pink-tinted sand, flamingos in shallow lagoons, and calm turquoise waters perfect for snorkeling with reef fish and sea turtles.

DAY 3 – PINZÓN ISLAND & LA FE BAY

Turquoise water surrounds you as the boat approaches Pinzón, one of the most vibrant snorkeling spots in the archipelago. Slipping into the sea feels effortless—sea lions spin beside you, turtles glide through beams of light, and rays sweep quietly across the seabed. After lunch on board, La Fe Bay offers a second swim in warm, sheltered waters or a slow moment on the beach before returning to Santa Cruz in the late afternoon.

DAY 4 – GOODBYE GALAPAGOS

Your final morning carries you through the green highlands of Santa Cruz toward Baltra Airport, the scenery shifting from forest to open volcanic plains. Depending on timing, you may stop by the Charles Darwin Research Station for a final look into the conservation work that shapes the islands. It’s a smooth, scenic transfer—perfect for flights departing after 12:30 pm.

At Takiri, we partner with naturalist guides, family-owned farms, and community-led projects to ensure your trip supports the people who protect these islands every day. Our local expert tours blend responsible travel with warm storytelling, giving you a richer, more meaningful experience of the Galapagos.

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.

¿Qué fauna puedo esperar ver?

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, if we’re lucky: 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 4 days enough to visit the Galapagos?

This program was designed for travelers who have just a few days available. Although it is a short trip, you’ll visit three islands and the highlight sites of each, where you snorkel, trek, and hike.