Land-Based Safari
Explore the enchanting Galapagos Islands on a Land-Based Safari, discovering unique wildlife and stunning landscapes, all while staying ashore.
From $10,500 per personMenu
Galapagos Islands Safaris
The inspiration behind Darwin’s Theory of Evolution, the Galapagos Islands is home to some of the rarest and most diverse wildlife species in the world; a sanctuary for monolithic giant tortoises, charismatic sea lions, diving marine iguanas, and many divergent bird species. Roam this ancient archipelago’s captivating landscapes and snorkel with hammerheads, green turtles, manta rays, and more.
The Galapagos Islands Safari Experience
- Island Exploration; explore lava tunnels, coral beaches, lagoons and so much more. Each of the 19 major islands that make up the Galapagos archipelago features their own natural world highlights.
- Visit Cormorant Bay on Floreana Island in June or July to see vast flocks of flamingos mating and doing synchronised dancing.
- Get up close to the wildlife on walking safaris, from land iguanas and blue footed boobies to the giant tortoise.
- Relax on beautiful Pacific beaches and snorkel and swim beside cheeky sea lions
- Whilst Galapagos safari holidays often focus on boat trips, we prefer to mix land and boat based itineraries giving you the best of both worlds.
Galapagos Safaris
Wildlife of the South & Western Islands
Discover the abundant wildlife and stunning landscapes of the Galapagos' South and Western Islands on this immersive adventure.
From $11,500 per person
Ecuador & Galapagos: Islands, Andes and Amazon Adventure
Commence on an 18-day adventure in Ecuador & the Galapagos, experiencing wildlife, luxury yachting, and Amazon rainforest exploration.
From $22,000 per person
Talk to a Latin America Destination Specialist today
Why NWS for your Galapagos Islands Safari?
- We offer you the opportunity to get off the beaten track for extraordinary wildlife safari encounters in tune with the natural environment, visiting as true explorers, and keeping our human footprint on this unique environment to a minimum. Avoiding the tourist trail you'll be able to experience the Galapagos in solitude.
- Working with only the best vessels, we ensure you have access to superior guiding services
- Mix traditional cruises with land-based options to create a different focus to your bespoke itinerary.
How much does Galapagos Islands cost?
Typically, expect to budget around $8,000 per person for an 8-day land safari in the Galapagos Islands. If you'd like to also include mainland Ecuador in your trip, we recommend visiting the Andes, cloud forest and the Amazon rainforest before heading over to the Galapagos for some land or sea-based exploration. For a longer 18-day itinerary visiting these spots, you can expect to budget around $14,000 per person. Read on for a selection of our tailor-made and small group Galapagos safari holidays.
When to go to the Galapagos Islands?
The best time to go to the Galapagos Islands is between December and June. The archipelago does not experience any particularly drastic changes in climate throughout the year but there are two distinct seasons.
Where to stay in the Galapagos Islands?
You can explore the Galapagos archipelago via a chartered yacht, stay in a luxurious eco lodge, or combine the two for the ultimate Galapagos experience. From luxurious sailing vessels to an African-style safari camp, we promise real intimacy, comfort, and authenticity, with a selection of camps, lodges and small ships.
Galapagos Islands Safari Highlights
Client Reviews
Rated 5/5 based on 3 customer reviews
- —Kendra Price, Galapagos, 2025
I booked with NWS for a trip of a lifetime to the Galápagos Islands! I was very well taken care of from the original contact with their office through the final trip to the airport to return home. My NWS contact for the trip helped me determine the right adventure for my available dates and provided excellent communication and partnership in answering all of my questions.
Once in Ecuador, the local team was amazing! My driver and tour guide in Quito was excellent and knowledgeable. When I got to the Islands, I immediately fell in love with the Galapagos, this ship, the crew, and the 2 naturalist guides. Because of their excellence, I had the opportunity to experience a wide array of unique wildlife and participate in hikes, kayaking, and snorkelling.
NWS provides exclusive accommodations, ships, crew, and guides that make already special experiences even more unforgettable. Even better - these are experiences with a small amount of guests, and that allows for the maximum amount of time actually having the adventure and not waiting around. 100% recommend!
- —Rowena Bird, Galapagos, 2025
Natural World Safari's does it again
I went to the Galapagos 33 years ago and was nervous to return, not wanting to spoil the magical memories made back then, but I wanted my husband to experience the wonder of the beautiful islands. The trip NWS created for us was a dream come true. From a stay in Mashpi retreat in the cloud forest in Ecuador to a week on the super Yacht Aqua Mare we did not stop smiling.
I need not have worried, everything was organised and stress free, all we had to do was enjoy ourselves and we did. We loved every minute. For a journey and experience that will stay with you for a life time, choose Mashpi and Aqua Mare NWS style.
- —Cory Crandall, Galapagos, 2024
Our trip to the Galapagos Islands was amazing! Everything was so organized and planned for us that it was very easy once we arrived in Ecuador. From the wildlife we saw, the hikes and snorkeling sessions, and the friendliness and how accommodating the staff was, everything was first rate. Highly recommend Natural World Safaris if you want to go on an adventure. I know it's the only company I'd use when booking a safari!
Frequently Asked Questions
What animals can you see in the Galapagos Islands?
The Galapagos are home to giant tortoises, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, sea lions, penguins and hammerhead sharks, many found nowhere else on Earth.
Why are the Galapagos Islands famous for wildlife?
The islands inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution and contain some of the world’s most unique endemic species.
When is the best time to visit the Galapagos Islands?
Wildlife can be seen year-round, though December to May offers calmer seas and warmer weather.
Is the Galapagos good for wildlife photography?
Yes, animals are famously fearless of humans, allowing close and ethical wildlife observation.
How do you explore the Galapagos Islands?
Most visitors explore the islands on small expedition ships or guided island-hopping tours.
What marine wildlife lives in the Galapagos?
Marine life includes sea turtles, hammerhead sharks, rays, sea lions and tropical fish.
Are the Galapagos Islands protected?
Yes, the islands are protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and national park.
Can you snorkel or dive in the Galapagos?
Yes, snorkelling and diving allow encounters with sea lions, turtles and reef sharks.
What makes Galapagos wildlife unique?
Many species evolved in isolation and exist nowhere else on Earth.
What accommodation is available in the Galapagos?
Options include expedition cruise ships, boutique hotels and eco-lodges.
Are the Galapagos Islands worth visiting for wildlife?
Yes. The Galapagos are one of the world’s most extraordinary wildlife destinations, where animals such as giant tortoises, marine iguanas and sea lions can be seen up close.
What animals are unique to the Galapagos Islands?
Species found only in the Galapagos include marine iguanas, Galapagos giant tortoises and flightless cormorants.
Is the Galapagos good for snorkelling?
Yes. Snorkelling in the Galapagos offers encounters with sea lions, turtles, reef sharks and colourful marine life.
Can you see penguins in the Galapagos?
Yes. The Galapagos penguin is one of the only penguin species found near the equator.
Why is the Galapagos important for science?
The islands played a key role in Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution and remain vital for conservation research.
Why Natural World Safaris for your Galapagos Islands Safari?
Wildlife First Philosophy
With a deep respect for conservation, our trips prioritise ethical, close-up encounters with the Galapagos’ unique species—from giant tortoises and marine iguanas to blue-footed boobies and sea lions.
Expertly Curated Itineraries
We craft immersive Galapagos journeys that balance iconic highlights with lesser-known islands, ensuring extraordinary wildlife encounters with minimal environmental impact.
Small Boats, Big Experiences
Our handpicked fleet of small expedition vessels offers intimate access to the archipelago, with expert naturalist guides enhancing every snorkel, hike and wildlife sighting.