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Galapagos Islands

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Galapagos Islands Safaris

The inspiration behind Darwin’s Theory of Evolution, the Galapagos Islands is home to some of the rarest and most diverse 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 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

Kiyoshi Eqn Ouuket4 Unsplash

Galapagos Land-Based Safari

An epic, lodge-based Galapagos wildlife safari staying in some wonderful accommodation. Perfect for anyone who doesn't want to stay aboard an expedition ship. This lodge-based Galapagos itinerary visits the incredible Santa Cruz and Isabela islands and includes boat trips to surrounding islands. This is an incredible way to see the wildlife of the Galapagos for those land-lovers with an aversion to spending too much time on the sea. Swim with playful sea lions; watch the blue footed boobies as they perform in a charming courtship dance; see the emblematic tortoises in their natural habitat and a whole host of other fearless animals.

From 8000 per person
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Wildlife of the South And Western Islands

Sailing on board the luxurious Natural Paradise yacht, spend 10 days exploring the natural highlights of the Galapagos Islands; snorkelling with sea lions and sea turtles, observing the abundant birdlife and encountering marine iguanas and other endemic wildlife.

From 11000 per person
St Ecuador Amazon Eva Kali

Islands, Andes and Amazon Adventure

On this adventure you will spend 7 nights on the Grand Majestic yacht, a luxury vessel specifically designed to explore the Galapagos Islands, getting up close with the Galapagos wildlife; from iguanas and frigate birds, to tortoises and boobies. Enjoy a relaxing few days in the Zuleta region, one of Ecuador’s true hidden gem. Spend time in the mighty Amazon Rainforest with expert guides searching for caiman, primates, scarlet macaws, sloth or even elusive wildcat.

From 14000 per person
Galapagos Islands Ecoventura By Nicholas Gill

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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.

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. Read more here.

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. Read more here.

Galapagos Wildlife

A guide to wildlife encounters in the Galapagos Islands

GAL St Galapagos Black Spotted Eagle Ray Shutterstock Wildestanimal

Where to stay

A guide of where to stay in the Galapagos

Finch Bay Hotel

Where to go

The Best Islands in the Galapagos

GAL St Galapagos Bartolome Island Jess Kraft

Galapagos Islands Safari Highlights

Client Reviews

Rated 5/5 based on 3 customer reviews
  • GAL Lav Tandon

    The team were very patient when answering my questions and I saw some excellent wildlife whilst in the Galapagos, some great tours offered!I am very grateful to have worked with my destination specialist, David. I feel his hands-on experience in Rwanda and his enthusiasm for the country contributed greatly to the success of our trip. David was always available to answer questions and discuss details. I can’t say enough good things about all aspects of our trip. Rwanda is a magical country and because of David and NWS, I felt like I experienced the best of the best. I would love to travel again, I applaud the intimate knowledge of the countries NWS go to. Personalised itineraries with all aspects of the trip are taken into account, making it a very organised and efficient process.

    5 out of 5
  • Nina Sabanayagam

    Tristan was terrific in planning our itinerary, making sure to understand the type of hotel we would feel most comfortable with as well as the activities we would be able to participate in and he considered the fact that we have small children when making plans. Tristan was also very patient and thorough in answering all of our questions. Excellent experience overall! Would highly recommend Tristan and NWS to friends and family (already have).

    5 out of 5
  • Mone Petsod

    I love everything Tristan had chosen for me for the Falklands and Galapagos. Thank you, Tristan.

    5 out of 5

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.

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Why Natural World Safaris for your Galapagos Islands Safari?

Location Icon Why Nws

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.

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Expertly Curated Itineraries

We craft immersive Galapagos journeys that balance iconic highlights with lesser-known islands, ensuring extraordinary wildlife encounters with minimal environmental impact.

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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.